Covering device for use with aircraft articulation interface

Abstract

The application discloses a covering device for use with an aircraft articulation interface. An example covering device includes a body defining a first side and a second side opposite the first side. The body is dimensioned to provide a stop against an outer surface of the bearing. A boss protrudes from the first side of the body. The size of the boss is set so that the boss can be connected with a bearing hole of the bearing in a press-in fit mode. A knob protrudes from the second side of the body opposite the first side.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to aircraft manufacturing and, more particularly, to a covering device for use in conjunction with an aircraft hinge interface (interfaces). Background Art

[0002] For many years, aircraft manufacturers have continuously optimized the manufacturing and / or assembly processes of aircraft to increase manufacturing build times while reducing costs. Summary of the Invention

[0003] An exemplary covering device includes a body defining a first side and a second side opposite the first side. The body is sized to provide a stop against an outer surface of a bearing. A boss projects from the first side of the body. The boss is sized for a press-fit connection with a bearing bore of the bearing. A knob projects from the second side of the body opposite the first side.

[0004] An exemplary covering assembly for use with a bearing includes a first covering coupled to a first side of the bearing, the first covering including a first protrusion, a first support surface, and a second support surface. The first covering is sized for a press fit relative to a bore of the bearing. The covering assembly includes a second covering coupled to a second side of the bearing opposite the first side. The second covering includes a second protrusion, a third support surface, and a fourth support surface. The second covering is sized for a press fit relative to the bore of the bearing.

[0005] An example method of forming a covering for a bearing includes: forming a body defining a first side and a second side; providing a boss projecting from the first side, the diameter of the boss being greater than the diameter of a bore of a bearing to which the covering is coupled; and providing a gripping portion projecting from the second side of the body. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0006] Figure 1 An example aircraft disclosed herein is illustrated.

[0007] Figure 2 is Figure 1 A perspective top view of an example wing of an example aircraft.

[0008] Figure 3 is Figure 2 A perspective view of an example portion of an example wing, wherein an example control surface has been removed to expose an example hinge interface.

[0009] Figure 4A and Figure 4BIs a perspective view of an example overlay device taught by the present disclosure.

[0010] Figure 5A Is a perspective view of an example overlay assembly coupled to an example bearing disclosed herein.

[0011] Figure 5B Is Figure 5A An exploded view of an example overlay assembly of

[0012] Figure 5C Is of an example overlay assembly decoupled from an example bearing Figure 5A A perspective view of an example overlay assembly of

[0013] Figure 5D Is of an example overlay assembly in a partially assembled state Figure 5A A perspective view of an example overlay assembly of

[0014] Figure 6A And Figure 6B Illustrate an example overlay assembly of Figures 2-3 Coupled to an example hinge interface of Figures 5A-5D An example overlay assembly of

[0015] Figure 7 Is a flow chart representative of an example method for manufacturing an overlay device disclosed herein.

[0016] Generally, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings and the accompanying written description to refer to the same or like components. The drawings are not necessarily to scale. Instead, the thickness of layers or regions in the drawings may be exaggerated. Although the drawings show layers and regions with clear lines and boundaries, some or all of these lines and / or boundaries may be idealized. In reality, the boundaries and / or lines may be unobservable, blended, and / or irregular. Detailed Description

[0017] Many fixed-wing aircraft utilize devices to alter the aerodynamic characteristics of the aircraft's wings. Many aircraft utilize various edge devices on the wings, each providing a different variation in wing performance. Trailing-edge devices (i.e., devices present on the trailing edge of the wing) act as control surfaces to change the flight direction, orientation, and lift characteristics of the aircraft. Flaps, spoilers, and ailerons are widely used trailing-edge devices.

[0018] An aircraft employs hinge fittings to pivotally couple control surfaces (e.g., flaps, flaperons, ailerons, spoilers, etc.) to the wings of the aircraft. During the assembly and / or maintenance of the aircraft, the hinge fittings may be exposed prior to the attachment of the control surface to the wing. The bearings typically employed in the hinge fittings may be vulnerable to damage when exposed, and maintenance and / or assembly operations are performed in the vicinity of the exposed bearings. Replacing the bearings of the hinge fittings increases the manufacturing and / or repair time. Consequently, the aircraft is out of service (condition) and / or remains on the assembly line for an unnecessary or extended period of time.

[0019] The exemplary cover devices disclosed herein protect exposed hinge fittings from damage during the manufacture and / or maintenance of an aircraft. Specifically, the exemplary covers disclosed herein are coupled to the hinge fittings to cover the exposed bearings. When attached to the bearings, the covers protect the bearings from damage. The specific exemplary cover device disclosed herein is a plug that protects a full-diameter bearing. The cover devices disclosed herein are configured or constructed to seal and / or protect bearings with mounting brackets. In some examples, the cover devices disclosed herein may be press-fit with bearings having bearing interfaces or brackets.

[0020] Figure 1 An exemplary aircraft 100 is illustrated in which the exemplary cover devices disclosed herein may be employed. The illustrated exemplary aircraft 100 includes a plurality of control surfaces 102 (e.g., flaps, alerions, flaperons, spoilers, horizontal stabilizers, vertical stabilizers, etc.) that may be pivotally coupled to a first wing 104, a second wing 106, and / or a tail 108 of the aircraft 100. Although the aircraft 100 illustrates a common commercial aircraft, the exemplary cover devices disclosed herein may be used with any number of different types of aircraft (e.g., winged aircraft, rotorcraft, etc.), vehicles (e.g., automobiles, off-road vehicles), machining equipment, manufacturing equipment, bearings, ball bearings, and / or any other structure or device that employs bearings.

[0021] Figure 2 is Figure 1 A perspective top view of an exemplary wing 104 of the exemplary aircraft 100. As Figure 2 shown, a control surface 202 (e.g., a flap, a flaperon, etc.) is pivotally coupled to the wing 104 via a hinge interface 204. The illustrated exemplary hinge interface 204 enables the control surface 202 to pivot relative to the wing 104 to change or adjust the flow characteristics of the wing 104.

[0022] Figure 3 is Figure 2Perspective view of a portion 300 of an exemplary wing 104, where the control surface 202 is removed to expose the hinge interface 204. The hinge interface 204 of the illustrated example is a flap / control surface hinge interface. The hinge interface 204 includes a bracket 302 that is mounted to the rear spar or frame 304 of the wing box 306 of the wing 104. To enable pivotal movement of the control surface 202 ( Figure 2 ) relative to the wing 104, the hinge interface 204 includes a first bearing 308 (e.g., a first ball bearing) and a second bearing 310 (e.g., a second ball bearing). The first bearing 308 and the second bearing 310 receive a connector (e.g., a shaft, a pin, etc.) of the control surface 202 to pivotally mount the control surface 202 (e.g., a flap) relative to the wing 104. During the assembly and / or maintenance of the aircraft, the hinge interface 204 is exposed before the control surface 202 is attached. Thus, dirt or other debris can accumulate in the bearings 308, 310. In some examples, the exposed hinge interface 204 and / or the bearings 308, 310 may be prone to damage. Replacement of the bearings 308, 310 may require removal of the bracket 302. Additionally, the bearings 308, 310 are generally press-fit with the bracket 302, so they may be difficult to remove and / or replace, increasing the manufacturing and / or maintenance time and cost.

[0023] Figure 4A and Figure 4B is a perspective view of an exemplary cover device 400 taught by the present disclosure. The cover device 400 of the illustrated example is a cap or a plunger coupled to a bearing (e.g., Figure 3 the bearings 308 and / or 310). The illustrated example of the cover device 400 includes a body 402 (e.g., a cylindrical body) that defines a first side 404 and a second side 406 opposite the first side 404. The first side 404 of the body 402 includes a recess 408 that defines a cavity 410. Specifically, the first side 404 of the body 402 defines a first support surface 412 and a second support surface 414 different from the first support surface 412. In the illustrated example, the second support surface 414 is recessed relative to the first support surface 412 by the recess 408. However, in some examples, the recess 408 and / or the second support surface 414 may be omitted. The illustrated example of the body 402 is a cylindrical body having a circular shape that defines a body diameter 416. However, in some examples, the body 402 may have a rectangular shape, a square shape, an oval shape, and / or any other shape(s). The illustrated example of the first support surface 412 is an annular and / or circumferential ring formed by the recess 408. The second support surface 414 is a base or bottom (e.g., flat) surface defined by the cavity 410. The body diameter 416 of the body 402 is sized to be greater than the bearing bore of the bearing (e.g., Figure 5BThe diameter of the bearing hole 514). In this way, the outermost surface of the main body 402 is not inserted into the opening or hole of the bearing.

[0024] The cover device 400 of the illustrated example includes a protrusion or boss 418 that protrudes from the first side 404 of the main body 402. The boss 418 protrudes from the second support surface 414 in a direction away from the second support surface 414. In other words, the boss 418 is a protrusion that cantilevers out from the first side 404 of the main body 402. The boss 418 includes a lead-in edge 420 to facilitate the insertion of the cover device 400 into a bearing (e.g., Figure 3 bearing 308). The boss 418 of the illustrated example is a cylinder that defines a boss diameter 422 and a boss length 424. However, in some examples, the boss 418 of the illustrated example may have a square shape, an oval shape, and / or any other shape. In the illustrated example, the boss 418 is coaxially aligned with the central axis 426 of the main body 402. In some examples, the boss diameter 422 is substantially similar to (e.g., equal to or slightly greater than about one-tenth of an inch) the hole diameter of the bearing to which the cover is to be coupled. Thus, the boss diameter 422 is configured (e.g., sized) to enable the boss 418 to be press-fit into the hole (e.g., opening) of the bearing (e.g., friction-fit connection). For example, the boss diameter 422 may be sized to be greater than the diameter of the bearing hole to which the cover device is to be coupled, and when the boss 418 is inserted into the opening or hole of the bearing, the boss 418 compresses (e.g., circumferentially or radially).

[0025] The cover device 400 of the illustrated example includes a grip portion 430 (e.g., a knob, a handle, a plug, etc.) that protrudes from a second side 406 of the body 402 in a direction away from the second side 406. In other words, the grip portion 430 of the illustrated example is a protruding portion that cantilevers out from the second side 406 of the body 402. The grip portion 430 of the illustrated example is a cylinder having a varying diameter that increases (e.g., gradually increases, linearly increases) between a first end 432 of the grip portion 430 that is attached to the second side 406 of the body 402 and a second end 434 of the grip portion 430 that is opposite the first end 432. The varying diameter enhances and / or increases the gripping area of the grip portion 430. In some examples, the grip portion 430 of the illustrated example may have a square shape, an oval shape, and / or any other shape. In the illustrated example, the grip portion 430 is coaxially aligned with the boss 418. For example, the grip portion 430 is coaxially aligned with the central axis 426 of the body 402. The boss diameter 422 is greater than the maximum diameter of the grip portion 430. Additionally, the grip portion 430 includes an opening 436 (e.g., having a longitudinal axis that is not parallel to the central axis 426) to receive a portion of a tether that couples (e.g., daisy-chains) two or more cover devices 400. The boss 418 and the bearing create frictional force to hold the cover device coupled to the bearing.

[0026] The cover device 400 of the illustrated example may be formed as a single-piece structure or body (e.g., a monolithic body). For example, the cover device 400 may be formed via injection molding, casting, three-dimensional printing, and / or any other manufacturing process(es). In some examples, the cover device 400 may be multiple components (e.g., the body 402, the boss 418, the grip portion 430, etc.) that are coupled together via fasteners (fastening means), the fasteners (fastening means) including welding, screws, adhesives, thermal welding, and / or any other fasteners and / or fastening processes(es). The cover device 400 of the illustrated example may be made of rubber, plastic(s), metal(s), alloy(s), combinations thereof, and / or any other material. For example, one or more components of the cover device 400 may include thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) (e.g., ), vinyl material(s), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) material(s), and / or any other material(s). In some examples, the boss 418 may include a sleeve, film, coating, etc. of a rubber material or other material(s) that provide a grip or a high-friction holding force.

[0027] Figures 5A-5D are different views of the example cover assembly 500 disclosed herein that is coupled to the example bearing 502. Figure 5Ais a perspective view of an exemplary cover assembly 500 coupled to an exemplary bearing 502. Figure 5B is an exploded view of cover assembly 500 and bearing 502. Figure 5C is a perspective view of an exemplary cover assembly 500 decoupled from bearing 502. Figure 5D is a perspective view of an exemplary cover assembly 500 in a partially assembled state.

[0028] The illustrated exemplary cover assembly 500 includes a first cover 504 and a second cover 506. The first cover 504 is the first cover device 400 of FIG. 4, and the second cover 506 is the second cover device of FIG. 4. Each of the illustrated exemplary first cover 504 and second cover 506 is the same as the cover device 400 of FIG. 4, and thus a plurality of components in the first cover 504 and the second cover 506 are substantially similar or identical to the components described above in connection with the cover device 400 of FIG. 4. Accordingly, these components will not be described in detail hereinafter. Instead, for a complete written description of the structure and operation of such components, reference is made to the corresponding description above. For the sake of facilitating this process, like or identical reference numerals will be used for like structures as used in FIG. 4 above.

[0029] Reference Figures 5A-5D , the first cover 504 and the second cover 506 are coupled to a bearing 502 (e.g., a ball bearing). The illustrated exemplary bearing 502 includes an outer ring 508 (e.g., having an outer ring ball race) and an inner ring 510 (e.g., having an inner ring ball race). The outer ring 508 has a diameter 512, and the inner ring 510 defines a bearing bore 514 having a bore diameter 516. The illustrated exemplary bearing 502 defines a thickness 518 between a first side 520 of the bearing 502 (e.g., the outer ring) and a second side 522 of the bearing 502 (e.g., the outer ring) opposite the first side 520. The outer surface 524 (e.g., the first side surface) of the inner ring 510 protrudes or extends beyond the outer surface 526 (e.g., the first side surface) of the outer ring 508.

[0030] The first cover 504 of the illustrated example is coupled to the first side 520 of the bearing 502, and the second cover 506 is coupled to the second side 522 of the bearing 502 opposite the first side 520. In other words, the first side 404 of the first cover 504 is oriented toward the first side 520 of the bearing 502, and the first side 404 of the second cover 506 is oriented toward the second side 522 of the bearing 502. In the illustrated example, the first cover 504 and the second cover 506 are press fit into the bearing bore 514 of the bearing 502. Specifically, the first cover 504 and the second cover 506 are coupled to the bearing 502 via a friction fit connection. For example, the first cover 504 is coupled to the bearing 502 by a friction fit connection provided by a boss 418 of the first cover 504 and the bearing bore 514 (e.g., a first interface 505 therebetween), and the second cover 506 is coupled to the bearing 502 by a friction fit connection provided by a boss 418 of the second cover 506 and the bearing bore 514 (e.g., a second interface 507 therebetween). Thus, the first cover 504 and the second cover 506 are sized to be coupled to the bearing via a friction fit connection provided by a first interface 505 between a first protrusion 418 and the bearing bore 514 of the bearing 502 and a second interface 507 provided by a second protrusion 418 and the bearing bore 514 of the bearing 502.

[0031] In the illustrated example, the boss 418 of the first cover 504 is press-fit into the bearing bore 514 from the first side 520 of the bearing 502, and the boss 418 of the second cover 506 is press-fit into the bearing bore 514 from the second side 522 of the bearing 502. To provide a press-fit connection between the first cover 504 (e.g., and the second cover 506) and the bearing 502, the boss diameter 422 of the boss 418 is slightly greater than and / or equal to the bore diameter 516 of the bearing bore 514 of the bearing 502. For example, the boss diameter 422 of the boss 418 is about 0.25% to 1% greater than the bore diameter 516. For example, when the boss 418 is inserted into the bearing bore 514, the boss 418 can be compressed (e.g., circumferentially or radially). Further, any connection of the first cover 504 to the bearing 502 that is created between the outer surface 528 of the boss 418 and the inner surface 530 of the bearing bore 514 is achieved without the need for other fasteners, adhesives, straps, etc. For example, the boss 418 (e.g., the outer surface 528 of the boss 418) and / or the first cover 504 (e.g., and the second cover 506) is / are made of a rubber-like, grip-like, or other material(s) that create friction between the boss 418 and the inner surface 530 of the inner ring 510 when the boss 418 is at least partially inserted into the bearing bore 514. The boss length 424 of the boss 418 is at least one of the following: (1) half of the thickness 518 of the bearing 502; or (2) less than half of the thickness 518 of the bearing 502. In this way, when the first cover 504 and the second cover 506 are connected to the bearing 502, the boss 418 of the first cover 504 does not interfere (e.g., in the axial direction) with the boss 418 of the second cover 506.

[0032] When the first cover 504 is coupled to the bearing 502, the body 402 of the first cover 504 is not inserted into the bearing bore 514. Accordingly, the body 402 of the first top cover 504 is sized to prevent the body 402 from being inserted into the bearing bore 514. In this way, the body 402 of the first cover 504 can provide a stop against the outer surface of the bearing 502. Accordingly, the first support surface 412 of the first cover 504 engages (e.g., directly contacts) the outer side surface 526 of the outer ring 508 on the first side 520 of the bearing 502. Specifically, the first support surface 412 is flush-mounted or pressed against (e.g., sealed against) the outer side surface 526 of the outer ring 508 on the first side 520 of the bearing 502. In some examples, the second support surface 414 of the first cover 504 engages (e.g., directly contacts) the outer side surface 524 of the inner ring 510 on the first side 520 of the bearing 502. Specifically, the protruding portion of the inner ring 510 engages (e.g., directly contacts) the second support surface 414 of the first cover 504. For example, the diameter of the second support surface 412 is greater than the outer diameter of the inner ring 510 of the bearing 502. Additionally, at least a portion of the boss 418 of the first cover 504 is received by the bearing bore 514 (e.g., its first side) of the bearing 502. Accordingly, although the inner ring 510 protrudes relative to the outer ring 508 (e.g., laterally away from the outer side surface 526), when the first cover 504 is coupled to the bearing 502 and the boss 418 is positioned in the bearing bore 514 of the bearing 502, the recess 408 of the body 402 enables the first support surface 412 to engage the outer side surface 526 of the outer ring 508 and the second support surface 414 to engage the outer side surface 524 of the inner ring 510 of the bearing 502.

[0033] Similarly, when the second cover 506 is coupled to the bearing 502, the body 402 of the second cover 506 is not inserted into the bearing bore 514. Thus, the body 402 of the first cover 504 and / or the second cover 504 is sized to prevent the outer body portion from being inserted into the bearing bore 514. In this way, the body 402 of the second cover 506 can provide a stop against the outer surface of the bearing 502. Accordingly, the first support surface 412 of the second cover 506 engages (e.g., directly contacts) the outer surface 526 of the outer ring 508 on the second side 522 of the bearing 502 (e.g., provides a stop). Specifically, the first support surface 412 of the second cover 506 is flush-mounted or pressed against (e.g., sealed against) the second side surface of the outer ring 508 on the second side 522 of the bearing 502. In some examples, the second support surface 414 of the second cover 506 engages (e.g., directly contacts) the outer surface 524 of the inner ring 510 on the second side 522 of the bearing 502. Specifically, the protruding portion of the inner ring 510 engages (e.g., directly contacts) the second support surface 414 of the second cover 506. For example, the diameter of the second support surface 412 is greater than the outer diameter of the inner ring 510 of the bearing 502. Additionally, at least a portion of the boss 418 of the second cover 506 is received by the bearing bore 514 (e.g., its first side) of the bearing 502. Thus, although the inner ring 510 protrudes relative to the outer ring 508 (e.g., laterally away from the outer surface 526), when the second cover 506 is coupled to the bearing 502 and the boss 418 is positioned in the bearing bore 514 of the bearing 502, the recess 408 of the body 402 enables the first support surface 412 to engage the outer surface 526 of the outer ring 508 and the second support surface 414 to engage the outer surface 524 of the inner ring 510 of the bearing 502.

[0034] Accordingly, when both the first cover 504 and the second cover 506 are coupled to the bearing 502, the respective first support surfaces 412 of the first cover 504 and the second cover 506 simultaneously abut the corresponding outer surfaces 526 of the outer ring 508 flush or sealed. In other words, the bearing 502 is positioned between the first cover 504 (e.g., its first support surface 412) and the second cover 506 (e.g., its first support surface 412).

[0035] To couple the first cover 504 to the bearing 502, the first cover 504 is positioned relative to the bearing bore 514 such that the central axis 426 of the first cover 504 is aligned (e.g., coaxially aligned) with the longitudinal axis 532 of the bearing bore 514. After the first cover 504 is aligned with the bearing bore 514, a lateral force is applied to the first cover 504 (e.g., a force along the central axis 426 in a direction from the second side 406 of the body 402 toward the first side 404 of the body 402) to move the first cover 504 laterally until the first support surface 412 engages the outer surface 526 of the outer ring 508 on the first side 520 of the bearing 502 (e.g., until there is no space between the body 402 of the first cover 504 and the outer surface 526 of the bearing 502). The outer diameter of the first support surface 412 (e.g., the body diameter 416) is substantially equal to the outer diameter 512 of the outer ring 508 of the bearing 502. Thus, the first cover 504 and / or the second cover 506 protects the full-diameter bearing 502. Additionally, in the illustrated example, the thickness 534 of the first support surface 412 is substantially similar or the same as the thickness 536 of the outer surface 526 of the outer ring 508. To couple the first cover 504 and the second cover 506, the cover assembly 500 of the illustrated example includes a tether 540. The tether 540 is attached to the openings 436 of the gripping portions 430 of the first cover 504 and the second cover 506. The tether 540 of the illustrated example is a string. However, in some examples, the tether 540 can be a rubber band, a wire, a rope, a zip-tie, and / or any other suitable tether.

[0036] Figure 6A and Figure 6B illustrates being coupled to Figures 2-3The cover assembly 500 of FIG. 5 for the articulated interface 204. For example, the first cover 504 of the illustrated example is coupled to the first side 602 of the bearing 310. To couple the first cover 504 and the bearing 310, the central axis 426 of the first cover 504 is aligned with the bore axis 604 of the bearing 310 (e.g., coaxially aligned). In other words, the boss 418 of the first cover 504 is inserted into the bearing bore of the bearing 310. The user can grip the first cover 504 via the grip portion 430 to align the first cover 504 relative to the bearing bore of the bearing 310. Additionally, the user applies a lateral force 606 in the direction toward the bearing 310 (e.g., pushing the first cover 504) to insert the boss 418 into the bearing bore of the bearing 310. When inserted, the boss 418 of the first cover 504 frictionally engages the inner surface (e.g., inner surface 530) of the bearing bore (e.g., bearing bore 514) to hold the first cover 504 coupled to the bearing 310. As shown, the first support surface 412 of the first cover 504 engages the outer surface 608 of the bearing 310 and / or the bracket 302. To decouple the first cover 504 from the bearing 310, the user applies a pulling force 610 along the central axis 426 in the direction away from the bearing 310 (e.g., pulling the first cover 504) via the grip portion 430. The pulling force greater than the frictional force between the boss 418 and the inner surface (e.g., inner surface 530) of the bearing bore causes the first cover 504 to be removed, decoupled, and / or disengaged from the bearing bore and / or the bearing 310.

[0037] The second cover 506 can then be coupled to the second side 612 of the bearing 310 that is opposite the first side 602. To couple the second cover 506 and the bearing 310, align the central axis 426 of the second cover 506 with the bore axis 604 of the bearing 310 (e.g., coaxially align). In other words, insert the boss 418 of the second cover 506 into the bearing bore of the bearing 310 (e.g., from the second side 612). The user can grip the second cover 506 via the gripping portion 430 to align the second cover 506 relative to the bearing bore. Additionally, the user applies a lateral force 614 in a direction along the bore axis 604 toward the bearing 310 (e.g., push the second cover 506) to insert the boss 418 of the second cover 506 into the bearing bore. When inserted, the boss 418 of the second cover 506 frictionally engages the inner surface (e.g., inner surface 530) of the bearing bore 514 to hold the second cover 506 coupled to the bearing 310. As shown, the first support surface 412 of the second cover 506 engages the second side surface 616 of the bearing 310 and / or the bracket 302. Additionally, no other fasteners, adhesives, straps, etc. are required to hold the first cover 504 and the second cover 506 coupled to the bearing 310. To decouple the second cover 560 from the bearing 310, the user applies a pulling force 618 in a direction along the central axis 426 away from the bearing 310 via the gripping portion 430 (e.g., pull the second cover 506). The pulling force that is greater than the frictional force between the boss 418 and the inner surface 530 of the bearing bore causes the second cover 506 to be removed, decoupled, and / or disengaged from the bearing bore and / or the bearing 310.

[0038] In some examples, the cover assembly 500 can be shipped with the bracket and bearing assembly. For example, the cover assembly 500 can be installed onto the bearing (e.g., bearing 310) of the bracket (e.g., bracket 302) (the bearing (e.g., bearing 310) or the bracket (e.g., bracket 302)) at a warehouse or manufacturing facility. Other than the frictional engagement between the cover assembly and the bearing, no other fasteners, adhesives, straps, etc. are required to hold the cover assembly 500 coupled to the bearing 310. In this way, the cover assembly 500 can protect the bearing from damage during shipping or transporting the bracket and bearing assembly. In some examples, a seal (e.g., O-ring) or gasket can be positioned between the first support surface 412 and the outer surface of the bearing.

[0039] Figure 7 is a flow chart representative of an example method for manufacturing a cover device (e.g., cover device 400) disclosed herein. Although the example method is described with reference to Figure 7 the flow chart shown, various other methods for implementing the example cover device can be alternatively used. For example, the order of the blocks of the flow chart can be changed, and / or some of the described blocks can be changed, eliminated, or combined.

[0040] Method 700 begins with forming a body (block 702). For example, body 402 can be formed, which defines a first side 404 and a second side 406. Method 700 includes providing a boss that protrudes from the first side (block 704). For example, boss 418 can be formed with body 402 and protrudes from the first side 404 of body 402. In some examples, the diameter of the formed boss 418 is greater than the diameter of the bearing hole 514 of the bearing to which the covering device 400 is to be coupled. Method 700 includes providing a grip portion that protrudes from the second side of the body (block 706). For example, the grip portion is formed with body 402 and protrudes from the second side 406 of body 402, opposite to the protruding direction of boss 418. In some examples, method 700 includes forming a body having a first support surface 412 and a second support surface 414 on the first side 404 of body 402, and the second support surface 414 is recessed relative to the first support surface 412. As described above, the covering device 400 can be formed by injection molding, additive manufacturing (e.g., three-dimensional printing), and / or any other manufacturing process(es). In some examples, the covering device 400 is formed in multiple parts and then joined together via fasteners, chemical fasteners, adhesives, thermal welding, welding, and / or any other fastening techniques. The covering device 400 can be made of plastic material(s), rubber material(s), thermoplastic material(s), thermosetting material(s), and / or any other material(s).

[0041] In some examples, the covering device 400 and / or the covering assembly 500 can be modified for different types of bearings. For example, the bearing can include a central hole having a diameter and / or thickness different from (e.g., greater than or less than) the diameter (e.g., diameters 512, 516, etc.) and / or thickness (e.g., thickness 518) of bearing 310 and / or bearing 502. In such cases, the covering device 400 can be made to have a boss diameter (e.g., boss diameter 422), boss length (e.g., boss length 424), and body diameter (e.g., body diameter 416) of different (e.g., larger or smaller) sizes. In other words, the covering device 400 disclosed herein can be custom manufactured to fit different bearings.

[0042] Example covering devices are disclosed herein. Further examples and their combinations include the following:

[0043] Example 1 includes a covering device that includes a body that defines a first side and a second side opposite the first side. The body is sized to provide a stop against an outer surface of a bearing. A boss protrudes from the first side of the body. The boss is sized for a press-fit connection with a bearing hole of the bearing. A knob protrudes from the second side of the body opposite the first side.

[0044] Example 2 includes the covering device of Example 1, wherein the size of the main body is larger than the bearing hole of the bearing.

[0045] Example 3 includes the covering device of any one of Examples 1 and 2, wherein the first side of the main body includes a recess defining a cavity.

[0046] Example 4 includes the covering device of any one of Examples 1-3, wherein the boss projects from the base surface of the cavity defined by the recess.

[0047] Example 5 includes the covering device of any one of Examples 1-4, wherein the first side of the main body defines a first support surface and a second support surface, and the second support surface is different from the first support surface.

[0048] Example 6 includes the covering device of any one of Examples 1-5, wherein the first support surface engages the first side surface of the outer ring of the bearing, and the second support surface engages the first side surface of the inner ring of the bearing.

[0049] Example 7 includes the covering device of any one of Examples 1-6, wherein the second support surface is recessed relative to the first support surface.

[0050] Example 8 includes the covering device of any one of Examples 1-7, wherein the boss projects from the second support surface.

[0051] Example 9 includes the covering device of any one of Examples 1-8, wherein the first support surface has a first diameter that is substantially equal to the outer diameter of the outer ring of the bearing.

[0052] Example 10 includes the covering device of any one of Examples 1-9, wherein the second support surface has a second diameter that is greater than the outer diameter of the inner ring of the bearing.

[0053] Example 11 includes the covering device of any one of Examples 1-10, wherein the length of the boss is at least one of the following: half of the thickness of the bearing or less than half of the thickness of the bearing, the thickness of the bearing being provided between the first side of the outer ring of the bearing and the second side of the outer ring of the bearing opposite the first side.

[0054] Example 12 includes the covering device of any one of Examples 1-11, wherein the covering device engages the bearing via any between the inner surface of the bearing hole and the outer surface of the boss.

[0055] Example 13 includes the covering device of any one of Examples 1-12, wherein the covering device is removably coupled to the bearing via a knob.

[0056] Example 14 includes the covering device of any one of Examples 1-13, wherein the diameter of the boss is greater than the diameter of the bearing hole of the bearing, and the boss will be circumferentially compressed when the boss is inserted into the bearing hole.

[0057] Example 15 includes a covering assembly for use with a bearing, the covering assembly including a first covering for coupling to a first side of the bearing, the first covering including a first protrusion, a first support surface, and a second support surface. The first covering is sized to press-fit into the covering assembly of the bearing. The covering assembly includes a second covering for coupling to a second side of the bearing opposite the first side. The second covering includes a second protrusion, a third support surface, and a fourth support surface. The second covering is sized to press-fit into the hole of the bearing.

[0058] Example 16 includes the covering assembly of Example 15, wherein the first protrusion is sized to press-fit into a first side of the hole, and the second protrusion is sized to press-fit into a second side of the hole.

[0059] Example 17 includes the covering assembly of Example 15 or 16, wherein the first covering and the second covering are coupled to the bearing via a friction fit connection provided by a first interface between the first protrusion and the bearing hole and a second interface provided by the second protrusion and the bearing hole.

[0060] Example 18 includes the covering assembly of any one of Examples 15-17, wherein the first support surface engages a first side of the outer ring of the bearing, the second support surface engages a first side of the inner ring of the bearing, and when the first covering is coupled to the first side of the bearing, the first protrusion is at least partially inserted into the hole of the bearing.

[0061] Example 19 includes a method of forming a covering for a bearing, the method comprising: forming a body defining a first side and a second side; providing a boss protruding from the first side, the diameter of the boss being greater than the diameter of the hole of the bearing to which the covering is to be coupled; and providing a gripping portion protruding from the second side of the body.

[0062] Example 20 includes the method of Example 19, wherein forming the body further includes forming a first support surface and a second support surface recessed relative to the first support surface on the first side of the body.

[0063] "Comprising" and "including" (and all forms and tenses thereof) are used herein as open - ended terms. Thus, whenever a claim uses any form of "comprising" or "including" (e.g., includes, comprises, containing, having, etc.) as a preamble or for any kind of claim limitation, it should be understood that additional elements, terms, etc. may exist without falling outside the scope of the corresponding claim or limitation. As used herein, when the phrase "at least" is used as a transitional term in, for example, the preamble of a claim, it is open - ended in the same way as the terms "comprising" and "including" are open - ended. The term "and / or", when used, for example, in the form such as A, B, and / or C, refers to any combination or subset of A, B, and C, such as (1) A alone, (2) B alone, (3) C alone, (4) A and B, (5) A and C, (6) B and C, or (7) A and B and C. As used herein, in the context of describing a structure, component, item, object, and / or thing, the phrase "at least one of A and B" is intended to refer to an embodiment including any of the following: (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, or (3) at least one A and at least one B. Similarly, as used herein, in the context of describing a structure, component, item, object, and / or thing, the phrase "at least one of A or B" is intended to refer to an embodiment including any of the following: (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, or (3) at least one A and at least one B. As used herein, in the context of describing the performance or execution of a process, instruction, action, activity, etc., the phrase "at least one of A and B" is intended to refer to an embodiment including any of the following: (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, or (3) at least one A and at least one B. Similarly, as used herein, in the context of describing the performance or execution of a process, instruction, action, activity, etc., the phrase "at least one of A or B" is intended to refer to an embodiment including any of the following: (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, or (3) at least one A and at least one B.

[0064] As used herein, references to the singular (e.g., "a", "an", "first", "second", etc.) do not exclude the plural. The term "a" or "an" object as used herein refers to one (kind) or more than one (kind) of that object. The terms "a" (or "an"), "one or more (kinds)", and "at least one (kind)" may be used interchangeably herein. In addition, although listed separately, multiple devices, elements, or actions may be implemented by, for example, the same entity or object. Further, although individual features may be included in different examples or claims, these features may possibly be combined, and being included in different examples or claims does not mean that the combination of features is not feasible and / or beneficial.

[0065] As used herein, unless otherwise specified, the term "above" describes the relationship between two parts relative to the ground. If at least a portion of a second part is between the ground and a first part, the first part is above the second part. Similarly, as used herein, when a first part is closer to the ground than a second part, the first part is "below" the second part. As described above, the first part may be above or below the second part, with one or more of the following conditions: there are other parts therebetween, there are no other parts therebetween, the first and second parts are in contact, or the first and second parts are not in direct contact with each other.

[0066] As used in this patent, stating that any part (e.g., a layer, film, region, block, or plate) is on (e.g., located on, positioned on, disposed on, or formed on, etc.) another part in any way means that the part is in contact with the other part, or that the part is above the other part and one or more intermediate parts are therebetween.

[0067] As used herein, unless otherwise specified, connection references (e.g., attach, couple, connect, and link) may include intermediate members between the elements involved in the connection reference and / or relative movement between these elements. Thus, a connection reference does not necessarily imply that the two elements are directly connected and / or in a fixed relationship with each other. As used herein, stating that any part is "in contact" with another part is defined to mean that there are no intermediate parts between the two parts.

[0068] Unless otherwise specifically stated, descriptive terms such as "first", "second", "third", etc. are used herein without any input or otherwise indicating a sense of priority, physical order, listing arrangement, and / or sorting in any way, but merely as labels and / or arbitrary names to distinguish multiple elements for ease of understanding the disclosed examples. In some examples, the descriptive term "first" may be used to refer to a certain element in the detailed description, while the same element may be referred to by a different descriptive term such as "second" or "third" in the claims. In such cases, it should be understood that such descriptive terms are only used to distinctively identify those elements in the context of a discussion where multiple elements may, for example, have the same name (e.g., in the claims).

[0069] As used herein, "about" and "approximately" modify their subject / value to account for potential variations that occur in real-world applications. For example, "about" and "approximately" may modify dimensions that may be inaccurate due to manufacturing tolerances and / or other real-world imperfections, as would be understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art. For example, "about" and "approximately" may indicate that such dimensions may be within a tolerance range of + / - 10%, unless otherwise specified herein.

[0070] The appended claims are hereby incorporated by reference into this detailed description. Although certain example systems, devices, articles, and methods have been disclosed herein, the scope of this patent is not limited thereto. Instead, this patent covers all systems, devices, articles, and methods that fairly fall within the scope of the claims of this patent.

[0070] The present disclosure includes at least the following embodiments: 1. A covering device (400) for a bearing (308, 310, 502), the covering device (400) comprising: A body (402) defining a first side (404) and a second side (406) opposite the first side (404), the body (402) being sized to provide a stop against an outer surface (522) of the bearing (308, 310, 502); A boss (418) protruding from the first side (404, 520, 602) of the body (402), the boss (418) being sized to press-fit with a bearing bore (514) of the bearing (308, 310, 502); and A knob (430) protruding from the second side (406) of the body (402) opposite the first side (404). 2. The covering device (400) according to embodiment 1, wherein the body (402) is larger in size than the bearing bore (514) of the bearing (308, 310, 502). 3. The covering device (400) according to embodiment 1, wherein the first side (404) of the body (402) includes a recess (408) defining a cavity (410). 4. The covering device (400) according to embodiment 3, wherein the boss (418) protrudes from a base surface of the cavity (410) defined by the recess (408). 5. The covering device (400) according to embodiment 1, wherein the first side (404) of the body (402) defines a first support surface (412) and a second support surface (414), the second support surface (414) being different from the first support surface (412). 6. The covering device (400) according to embodiment 5, wherein the first support surface (412) engages a first side surface (526) of an outer ring (508) of the bearing (308, 310, 502), and the second support surface (414) engages a first side surface (526) of an inner ring (510) of the bearing (308, 310, 502). 7. The covering device (400) according to embodiment 5, wherein the second support surface (414) is recessed relative to the first support surface (412). 8. The covering device (400) according to embodiment 7, wherein the boss (418) projects from the second support surface (414). 9. The covering device (400) according to embodiment 5, wherein the first support surface (412) has a first diameter (416), and the first diameter (416) is substantially equal to the outer diameter (512) of the outer ring (508) of the bearing (308, 310, 502). 10. The covering device (400) according to embodiment 9, wherein the second support surface (414) has a second diameter, and the second diameter is greater than the outer diameter (516) of the inner ring (510) of the bearing (308, 310, 502). 11. The covering device (400) according to embodiment 1, wherein the length of the boss (418) is at least one of the following: half of the thickness (518) of the bearing (308, 310, 502) or less than half of the thickness (518) of the bearing (308, 310, 502), and the thickness (518) of the bearing (308, 310, 502) is provided between the first side (520) of the outer ring (508) of the bearing (308, 310, 502) and the second side (522) of the outer ring (508) of the bearing (308, 310, 502) opposite to the first side (520). 12. The covering device (400) according to embodiment 1, wherein the covering device (400) engages with the bearing (308, 310, 502) via any of the inner surface (530) of the bearing hole (514) and the outer surface (528) of the boss (418). 13. The covering device (400) according to embodiment 1, wherein the covering device (400) is removably coupled to the bearing (308, 310, 502) via the knob (430). 14. The covering device (400) according to embodiment 1, wherein the diameter (422) of the boss (418) is greater than the diameter (516) of the bearing hole (514) of the bearing (308, 310, 502), and the boss (418) will be circumferentially compressed when the boss (418) is inserted into the bearing hole (514). 15. A covering assembly (500) for use with a bearing (308, 310, 502), the covering assembly (500) comprising: A first cover (400, 504) coupled to a first side (520) of a bearing (308, 310, 502), the first cover (400, 504) including a first protrusion (418), a first support surface (412), and a second support surface (414), the first protrusion (418) sized to press fit into a hole (514) of the bearing (308, 310, 502); and A second cover (400, 506) coupled to a second side (522) of the bearing (308, 310, 502) opposite the first side (520), the second cover (400, 506) including a second protrusion (418), a third support surface (412), and a fourth support surface (414), the second cover (400, 506) sized to press fit into the hole (514) of the bearing (308, 310, 502). 16. The cover assembly (500) according to embodiment 15, wherein the first protrusion (418) is sized to press fit into a first side (520) of the hole (514), and the second protrusion (418) is sized to press fit into a second side (522) of the hole (514). 17. The cover assembly (500) according to embodiment 15, wherein the first cover (400, 504) and the second cover (400, 506) are sized to be coupled to the bearing (308, 310, 502) via a friction fit connection provided by a first interface between the first protrusion (418) and the hole (514) of the bearing (308, 310, 502) and a second interface provided by the second protrusion (418) and the hole (514) of the bearing (308, 310, 502). 18. The cover assembly (500) according to embodiment 15, wherein the first support surface (412) engages a first side (526) of an outer ring (508) of the bearing (308, 310, 502), the second support surface (414) engages a first side (524) of an inner ring (510) of the bearing (308, 310, 502), and when the first cover (400, 504) is coupled to the first side (526) of the bearing (308, 310, 502), the first protrusion (418) is at least partially inserted into the hole (514) of the bearing (308, 310, 502). 19. A method (700) of forming a covering (400, 504, 506) for a bearing (308, 310, 502), the method (700) comprising: forming a body (402) that defines a first side (404, 520, 602) and a second side (406, 522, 612); providing a boss (418) that projects from the first side (404, 520, 602), the diameter (422) of the boss (418) being greater than the bore diameter (516) of the bearing (308, 310, 502) to which the covering (400, 504, 506) is to be coupled; and providing a grip portion (430) that projects from the second side (406) of the body (402). 20. The method (700) according to embodiment 19, wherein forming the body (402) further comprises forming a first support surface (412) on the first side (404) of the body (402) and a second support surface (414) that is recessed relative to the first support surface (412).

Claims

1. A covering device (400) for a bearing (308, 310, 502), the covering device (400) comprising: A body (402) that defines a first side (404) and a second side (406) opposite the first side (404), the body (402) being sized to provide a stop against an outer surface (522) of the bearing (308, 310, 502); A boss (418) that projects from the first side (404, 520, 602) of the body (402), the boss (418) being sized to engage in a press-fit connection with a bearing bore (514) of the bearing (308, 310, 502); And A knob (430) that projects from the second side (406) of the body (402) opposite the first side (404).

2. The covering device (400) according to claim 1, wherein the body (402) is sized larger than the bearing bore (514) of the bearing (308, 310, 502).

3. The covering device (400) according to claim 1, wherein the first side (404) of the body (402) includes a recess (408) that defines a cavity (410).

4. The covering device (400) according to claim 3, wherein the boss (418) projects from a base surface of the cavity (410) defined by the recess (408).

5. The covering device (400) according to claim 1, wherein the first side (404) of the body (402) defines a first support surface (412) and a second support surface (414), the second support surface (414) being different from the first support surface (412).

6. The covering device (400) according to claim 5, wherein the first support surface (412) engages a first side surface (526) of an outer ring (508) of the bearing (308, 310, 502), and the second support surface (414) engages a first side surface (526) of an inner ring (510) of the bearing (308, 310, 502).

7. The covering device (400) according to claim 5, wherein the second support surface (414) is recessed relative to the first support surface (412).

8. The covering device (400) according to claim 7, wherein the boss (418) projects from the second support surface (414).

9. The covering device (400) according to claim 5, wherein the first support surface (412) has a first diameter (416), the first diameter (416) being substantially equal to an outer diameter (512) of the outer ring (508) of the bearing (308, 310, 502).

10. The covering device (400) according to claim 9, wherein the second support surface (414) has a second diameter that is greater than the outer diameter (516) of the inner ring (510) of the bearings (308, 310, 502).

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