Rolling bearing, rotating apparatus, and rolling bearing manufacturing method

Abstract

An increase in rotational torque is suppressed over a long period of time in a rolling bearing provided with a solid lubricant. A rolling bearing (1) is provided with: an inner ring (10) and an outer ring (20) disposed coaxially with each other; rolling bodies (30) disposed between the inner ring (10) and the outer ring (20); an annular cage (40) that is disposed between the inner ring (10) and the outer ring (20) and that holds the rolling elements (30) in a rollable manner; and a solid lubricant (60) that is disposed between the inner ring (10) and the outer ring (20) and holds lubricating oil by means of a cured resin material. The outer ring (20) has an inner peripheral surface (22b) facing the inner ring (10). The inner peripheral surface (22b) is formed with: an outer ring raceway surface (23) that supports the rolling elements (30) in a rollable manner; and an abutting surface (28) that extends outward in the axial direction from an end edge of the outer ring raceway surface (23) in the axial direction. The solid lubricant (60) is in contact with a recess (24) formed in the adjacent surface (28).

Description

Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to rolling bearings, rotating equipment, and a method for manufacturing rolling bearings. Background Technology

[0003] Traditionally, rolling bearings have relied on grease to maintain lubrication between a pair of raceway rings (inner and outer rings). The grease contains thickeners to partially solidify it, which sometimes increases the rotational torque of the rolling bearing due to the grease's agitation resistance. However, in rolling bearings, the goal is to reduce power consumption in the rotating equipment they are mounted on, thus requiring lower torque. In particular, low torque is strongly desired in small rolling bearings used in various motors such as fan motors.

[0004] As a means of reducing the rotational torque of rolling bearings, instead of applying grease, there are methods that involve configuring a solid lubricant inside the bearing. For example, Patent Documents 1 and 2 disclose techniques for configuring a solid lubricant formed from a mixture of grease and ultra-high molecular weight polyolefin particles inside a rolling bearing.

[0005] Previous technical documents Patent documents Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 55-137198; Patent Document 2: Japanese Utility Model Application Publication No. 6-18730. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve However, if a solid lubricant is placed inside a rolling bearing, the solid lubricant may shift position during the use of the rolling bearing and come into contact with the rolling elements, thereby increasing the rotational torque of the rolling bearing.

[0007] Therefore, the present invention provides a rolling bearing incorporating a solid lubricant that suppresses the increase of rotational torque over a long period. Furthermore, it provides a rotating device incorporating such a rolling bearing and a method for manufacturing the rolling bearing.

[0008] Solution for solving the problem The rolling bearing according to the first aspect of the present invention comprises: an inner ring and an outer ring, which are coaxially arranged with each other; a rolling element disposed between the inner ring and the outer ring; an annular retainer disposed between the inner ring and the outer ring to retain the rolling element in a rollable manner; and a solid lubricant disposed between the inner ring and the outer ring, which retains the lubricant by means of a cured resin material, wherein one of the raceways of the inner ring and the outer ring has a circumferential surface opposite to the other raceway, and on the circumferential surface are formed: a raceway surface that supports the rolling element in a rollable manner; and an abutment surface that extends from the end edge of the raceway surface in the axial direction to the outer side in the axial direction, wherein the solid lubricant contacts a recess formed in one of the abutment surfaces and the retainer.

[0009] According to the first embodiment, the solid lubricant is disposed on the circumferential surface of a raceway ring or in a retainer, so lubricating oil seeping from the solid lubricant can be supplied to the sliding portion, thereby reducing the rotational torque of the rolling bearing. Furthermore, the solid lubricant contacts the recess, so it is difficult for the solid lubricant to shift position during the use of the rolling bearing. This suppresses contact between the solid lubricant and the rolling elements. Therefore, a rolling bearing capable of suppressing the increase of rotational torque over a long period can be provided.

[0010] Furthermore, in the prior art, it is necessary to demold the solid lubricant, which has been pre-cured in a mold, before assembling it into the rolling bearing. In this regard, according to the first embodiment, as a method for forming the solid lubricant, a mixture of the solid lubricant before curing can be applied to the recess and then cured. Therefore, even in situations where it is difficult to place the cured solid lubricant inside the rolling bearing, the solid lubricant can be placed in a predetermined position.

[0011] The rolling bearing involved in the second aspect of the present invention may also be the rolling bearing involved in the first aspect, wherein the aforementioned recess is formed on the aforementioned adjacent surface.

[0012] Assuming the solid lubricant disposed on the adjacent surface does not contact the recess, the solid lubricant disposed on the adjacent surface is prone to displacement in the axial direction. According to the second solution, the solid lubricant disposed on the adjacent surface engages with the recess, thus limiting displacement in the axial direction. Therefore, the aforementioned effect can be effectively achieved.

[0013] The rolling bearing involved in the third aspect of the present invention may also be the rolling bearing involved in the second aspect described above, wherein the aforementioned solid lubricant contacts the portion of the aforementioned recess that is inclined outward relative to the radial direction toward the aforementioned axial direction.

[0014] According to the third scheme, the portion of the recess that is inclined outward in the axial direction relative to the radial direction restricts the inward displacement of the solid lubricant in the axial direction. Therefore, it is possible to effectively prevent the solid lubricant from shifting from its initial position inward in the axial direction and approaching the rolling elements during repeated use of the rolling bearing.

[0015] The rolling bearing involved in the fourth aspect of the present invention may also be the rolling bearing involved in the second or third aspect described above, wherein the aforementioned recess has a portion that is inclined inward toward the aforementioned axial direction relative to the radial direction.

[0016] According to the fourth embodiment, the portion of the recess that is inclined inward in the axial direction relative to the radial direction restricts the outward displacement of the solid lubricant in the axial direction. This more reliably suppresses the outward displacement of the solid lubricant from its initial position during repeated use of the rolling bearing.

[0017] The rolling bearing involved in the fifth aspect of the present invention may also be a rolling bearing involved in any of the above-mentioned second to fourth aspects, further comprising a sealing component, which is assembled on the aforementioned inner ring or the aforementioned outer ring, covering the space between the aforementioned inner ring and the aforementioned outer ring from the outside in the aforementioned axial direction, and the aforementioned solid lubricant contacts the aforementioned sealing component from the inside in the aforementioned axial direction.

[0018] According to Option 5, the sealing component restricts the outward displacement of the solid lubricant in the axial direction. This more reliably suppresses the outward displacement of the solid lubricant from its initial position during repeated use of the rolling bearing.

[0019] The rolling bearing involved in the sixth aspect of the present invention may also be the rolling bearing involved in any of the second to fifth aspects described above, wherein the aforementioned recess is provided at intervals relative to the aforementioned raceway surface along the aforementioned axial direction.

[0020] According to the sixth scheme, contact between the solid lubricant in the recess and the rolling elements rolling on the raceway surface can be suppressed. Therefore, the increase in the rotational torque of the rolling bearing can be suppressed.

[0021] The rolling bearing according to the seventh aspect of the present invention may also be the rolling bearing according to any one of the second to sixth aspects described above, further comprising a sealing member, which is assembled on the aforementioned inner ring or the aforementioned outer ring, covering the space between the aforementioned inner ring and the aforementioned outer ring from the outside in the aforementioned axial direction, wherein the aforementioned raceway ring has a protrusion that protrudes toward the aforementioned other raceway ring and forms the aforementioned circumferential surface, the aforementioned protrusion having an end face that faces the outside in the aforementioned axial direction and is connected to the aforementioned circumferential surface at the periphery on the side of the aforementioned other raceway ring, and the aforementioned recess is provided at intervals relative to the aforementioned end face along the aforementioned axial direction.

[0022] According to the seventh embodiment, it is possible to prevent the lubricating oil included in the solid lubricant from flowing out from the recess to the end face side and leaking out from the gap between the end face and the sealing component.

[0023] The rolling bearing involved in the eighth aspect of the present invention may also be the rolling bearing involved in any of the second to seventh aspects described above, wherein the aforementioned recess extends continuously throughout the circumferential direction.

[0024] According to the eighth scheme, the solid lubricant, which is distributed along the circumferential direction, is difficult to displace in the axial direction due to the recess along its entire length. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the increase of the rotational torque of the rolling bearing.

[0025] The rolling bearing involved in the ninth aspect of the present invention may also be the rolling bearing involved in any of the second to eighth aspects described above, wherein the aforementioned solid lubricant contacts the edge of the end edge of the raceway surface side formed in the aforementioned recess.

[0026] According to Scheme 9, the lubricating oil seeping from the solid lubricant does not need to cross the edge during its journey to the raceway surface, thus preventing insufficient supply of lubricating oil to the rolling elements.

[0027] The rolling bearing involved in the 10th aspect of the present invention may also be the rolling bearing involved in any of the above-mentioned second to ninth aspects, wherein the aforementioned raceway ring has a protrusion that protrudes toward the aforementioned other raceway ring and forms the aforementioned circumferential surface, the aforementioned protrusion has an end face that is connected to the aforementioned circumferential surface at its peripheral edge toward the aforementioned axial direction and on the side of the aforementioned other raceway ring, the aforementioned circumferential surface has a connecting surface formed between the aforementioned recess and the aforementioned end face, and the aforementioned connecting surface is further away from the aforementioned other raceway ring in the radial direction than the aforementioned axial direction end edge of the aforementioned raceway surface.

[0028] According to the 10th embodiment, when applying the mixture of solid lubricant before curing from the nozzle to a predetermined location, and inserting the nozzle tip from the outside of the rolling bearing to the inside of the outer and inner rings, it is possible to prevent the contact surface with the nozzle. Therefore, when applying the mixture, it is easy to bring the nozzle close to the recess, thus improving the productivity of small-diameter rolling bearings. Furthermore, the ease of bringing the nozzle close to the recess allows for precise application of the mixture, suppressing contact between the solid lubricant and rolling elements. Consequently, it is possible to suppress the increase in the rotational torque of the rolling bearing.

[0029] The rolling bearing involved in the 11th aspect of the present invention may also be the rolling bearing involved in any of the 2nd to 10th aspects described above, wherein the aforementioned peripheral surface has an inclined portion that extends from the end edge of the aforementioned raceway surface side of the aforementioned recess at an inclination relative to the radial direction and the aforementioned axial direction toward the aforementioned raceway surface side.

[0030] According to the 11th embodiment, even though the end of the recess on the raceway surface side extends radially, the circumferential surface gradually slopes from the recess toward the raceway surface, thus enabling the base oil seeping from the solid lubricant to flow from the recess along the slope toward the raceway surface. Therefore, even if the solid lubricant is not positioned close to the raceway surface, insufficient supply of lubricating oil to the rolling elements can be suppressed.

[0031] The rolling bearing according to the 12th aspect of the present invention may also be the rolling bearing according to the 11th aspect described above, wherein the aforementioned solid lubricant is arranged in a manner that does not protrude from the inside of the aforementioned recess toward the aforementioned inclined portion in the aforementioned radial direction.

[0032] According to scheme 12, it is possible to suppress contact between solid lubricant and rolling elements.

[0033] The rolling bearing involved in the 13th aspect of the present invention may also be the rolling bearing involved in any of the first to 12 aspects described above, wherein the aforementioned recess is formed in the aforementioned retainer.

[0034] According to the 13th embodiment, assuming the solid lubricant disposed in the retainer does not contact the recess, the solid lubricant disposed in the retainer is prone to positional deviation. According to the 13th embodiment, the solid lubricant disposed in the retainer is engaged with the recess and its positional deviation is restricted. Therefore, the aforementioned effect can be effectively achieved.

[0035] The rolling bearing involved in the 14th aspect of the present invention may also be the rolling bearing involved in any of the first to 13th aspects described above, wherein the aforementioned retainer has a protrusion that is inserted into the interior of the aforementioned solid lubricant.

[0036] According to scheme 14, the solid lubricant engages with the protrusion, thus more reliably suppressing the positional deviation of the solid lubricant.

[0037] The rotating device according to the 15th aspect of the present invention comprises: a rotating body configured to be rotatable; a support body supporting the rotating body to be rotatable; and a rolling bearing according to any one of the first to 14th aspects, which is located between the rotating body and the support body.

[0038] According to the 15th scheme, a rolling bearing capable of suppressing the increase of rotational torque over a long period of time can be provided, thus achieving long service life and energy saving for rotating equipment.

[0039] The method for manufacturing a rolling bearing according to the 16th aspect of the present invention is as follows: the rolling bearing comprises: an inner ring and an outer ring, which are coaxially arranged with each other; a rolling element disposed between the inner ring and the outer ring; an annular retainer disposed between the inner ring and the outer ring to retain the rolling element in a rolling manner; and a solid lubricant disposed between the inner ring and the outer ring. One of the raceways of the inner ring and the outer ring has a circumferential surface opposite to the other raceway. On the circumferential surface, a raceway surface is formed to support the rolling element in a rolling manner; and an abutment surface extends from the end edge of the raceway surface in the axial direction to the outer side in the axial direction. The solid lubricant is formed by heating a mixture of resin material and lubricating oil to above the gelation temperature of the resin material and then cooling and solidifying it. The solid lubricant contacts the recess formed on the abutment surface or the retainer.

[0040] According to the 16th embodiment, by distributing the solid lubricant on the circumferential surface of a raceway ring or in a retainer, it is possible to manufacture a rolling bearing that reduces rotational torque by supplying lubricating oil seeping from the solid lubricant to the sliding portion. Furthermore, by having the solid lubricant contact the recess, it is difficult for the solid lubricant to shift position during the use of the rolling bearing. Thus, it is possible to manufacture a rolling bearing that can suppress the increase in rotational torque caused by contact between the solid lubricant and rolling elements over a long period of time.

[0041] The method for manufacturing the rolling bearing according to the 17th aspect of the present invention may also be, in the method for manufacturing the rolling bearing according to the 16th aspect above, heating the aforementioned mixture to above the gelation temperature while in contact with the aforementioned recess, and then cooling and solidifying it.

[0042] According to the 17th embodiment, the mixture can be disposed inside the rolling bearing in its uncured state. Thus, even in situations where it is difficult to dispose of cured solid lubricant inside the rolling bearing, solid lubricant can be disposed in a predetermined position.

[0043] The method of manufacturing a rolling bearing according to the 18th aspect of the present invention may also be, in the method of manufacturing a rolling bearing according to the 16th aspect, forming the aforementioned recess on the aforementioned adjacent surface, and embedding the aforementioned solid lubricant, which has been pre-cured into a predetermined shape, into the aforementioned raceway ring.

[0044] According to Option 18, the process of applying a semi-solid mixture to the inside of the rolling bearing is eliminated, thus simplifying the manufacturing process of the rolling bearing. Furthermore, the solid lubricant can be precisely formed using a mold, which more reliably prevents contact between the solid lubricant and rolling elements.

[0045] Invention Effects According to the present invention, a rolling bearing containing a solid lubricant can suppress the increase of rotational torque over a long period of time. Attached Figure Description

[0046] Figure 1 This is a top view of the rolling bearing according to the first embodiment.

[0047] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Longitudinal section view along line II-II.

[0048] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view showing the retainer according to the first embodiment.

[0049] Figure 4 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a rolling bearing illustrating the method for forming a solid lubricant according to the first embodiment.

[0050] Figure 5 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a rolling bearing illustrating the method for forming a solid lubricant according to the first embodiment.

[0051] Figure 6 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the rolling bearing involved in the first modified example of the first embodiment.

[0052] Figure 7 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the rolling bearing involved in the second variation example of the first embodiment.

[0053] Figure 8 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the rolling bearing according to the second embodiment.

[0054] Figure 9 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the rolling bearing according to the third embodiment.

[0055] Figure 10 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the rolling bearing involved in a modified example of the third embodiment.

[0056] Figure 11 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the rolling bearing according to the fourth embodiment.

[0057] Figure 12 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the rolling bearing involved in the first modified example of the fourth embodiment.

[0058] Figure 13 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the rolling bearing involved in the second variation example of the fourth embodiment.

[0059] Figure 14 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the rolling bearing according to the fifth embodiment.

[0060] Figure 15 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the rolling bearing involved in the first modified example of the fifth embodiment.

[0061] Figure 16 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the rolling bearing involved in the second variation example of the fifth embodiment.

[0062] Figure 17 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the rolling bearing according to the sixth embodiment.

[0063] Figure 18 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the rolling bearing according to the seventh embodiment.

[0064] Figure 19 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the rolling bearing involved in the first modified example of the seventh embodiment.

[0065] Figure 20 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the rolling bearing involved in the second variation example of the seventh embodiment.

[0066] Figure 21 This is a cross-sectional view showing the retainer according to the eighth embodiment.

[0067] Figure 22 This is a cross-sectional view showing the retainer according to the 9th embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0068] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described based on the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, in the following description, components having the same or similar functions will be labeled with the same reference numerals. Also, repeated descriptions of these components will sometimes be omitted.

[0069] [First Implementation] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The first embodiment of the present invention will now be described.

[0070] Figure 1 This is a top view of the rolling bearing according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The longitudinal section along line II-II. Furthermore, in Figure 2 The rotating device 2, which is equipped with rolling bearing 1, is shown with imaginary lines.

[0071] like Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, the rolling bearing 1 is a radial ball bearing comprising an inner ring 10 and an outer ring 20 as raceways, a plurality of rolling elements 30, a retainer 40, and a pair of sealing components 50. The rolling bearing 1 is installed in a rotating device 2 such as a fan motor. The rotating device 2 includes: a shaft 3 (rotating body) formed in a manner capable of rotating about a common axis O; and a frame 4 (support body) fixedly disposed therein, supporting the shaft 3 in a rotatable manner. The rolling bearing 1 is located between the shaft 3 and the frame 4.

[0072] The inner ring 10 and the outer ring 20 are coaxially arranged with their respective central axes aligned with the common axis O. In this embodiment, the direction in which the common axis O extends is called the axial direction, the direction orthogonal to the common axis O and extending radially from the common axis O is called the radial direction, and the direction of rotation around the common axis O is called the circumferential direction. Furthermore, one of the directions parallel to the axial direction and pointing in opposite directions is defined as upward, and the other is defined as downward.

[0073] The inner ring 10 is configured as a rotating ring. The inner ring 10 is inserted into and fixed to the shaft 3. The outer ring 20 is configured as a fixed ring. The outer ring 20 is embedded in a recess (or through hole) of the frame 4 and fixed to the frame 4. With an annular space between the outer ring 20 and the inner ring 10, the outer ring 20 surrounds the inner ring 10 from the radially outer side. A plurality of rolling elements 30 are disposed between the inner ring 10 and the outer ring 20 and are held in a rolling manner by a retainer 40. The retainer 40 holds each rolling element 30 in a rotatable manner with the plurality of rolling elements 30 evenly arranged in the circumferential direction. A sealing member 50 is fitted onto the outer ring 20 and covers the annular space between the inner ring 10 and the outer ring 20 from the axially outer side.

[0074] The outer ring 20 is formed in a circular shape from a metal material such as stainless steel or bearing steel. However, the outer ring 20 is not limited to metal and can also be formed from other materials. The outer ring 20 has: an outer ring body 21, the width of which along the axial direction is equal to the width of the inner ring 10 along the axial direction; and a protrusion 22, which protrudes from the outer ring body 21 toward the inner side in the radial direction and extends integrally throughout the circumferential direction. The protrusion 22 is formed in the central portion of the outer ring body 21 in the axial direction. The width of the protrusion 22 along the axial direction is shorter than the width of the outer ring body 21 along the axial direction and larger than the outer diameter of the rolling element 30.

[0075] The protrusion 22 has a pair of end faces 22a facing outward in the axial direction and an inner circumferential surface 22b (circumferential surface) connecting the inner peripheries of the pair of end faces 22a to each other. Each end face 22a extends parallel in both the radial and circumferential directions. On the inner circumferential surface 22b, an outer raceway surface 23 recessed outward in the radial direction and a pair of upper and lower adjacent surfaces 28 extending outward in the axial direction from the axial end edge of the outer raceway surface 23. The outer raceway surface 23 is formed in a hemispherical shape in cross-sectional view along the outer surface of the rolling element 30, and is formed in an annular shape extending circumferentially throughout the entire circumference of the inner circumferential surface 22b. The outer raceway surface 23 is formed in the central portion of the inner circumferential surface 22b in the axial direction.

[0076] The abutment surface 28 is located between the end face 22a and the outer ring raceway surface 23. The abutment surface 28 is a cylindrical surface extending in the axial direction. On the upper abutment surface 28, a recess 24 is formed that is radially recessed outward. The recess 24 is spaced apart from the outer ring raceway surface 23 in the axial direction. The recess 24 is also spaced apart from the upward-facing end face 22a in the axial direction. The recess 24 extends continuously throughout the circumferential direction. The recess 24 extends in an arc shape in the longitudinal section of the rolling bearing 1. For example, in the longitudinal section of the rolling bearing 1, the radius of curvature of the recess 24 may be the same as or different from the radius of curvature of the outer ring raceway surface 23. Furthermore, the recess 24 may not extend with a fixed curvature in the longitudinal section of the rolling bearing 1. The recess 24 includes: an outwardly facing surface 24a, which is inclined outward relative to the radial direction towards the axial direction (radially inward and above, or above); and an inwardly facing surface 24b, which is inclined inward relative to the radial direction towards the axial direction (radially inward and below, or below). The portion of the adjacent surface 28 other than the recess 24 extends axially with a certain inner diameter.

[0077] The adjacent surface 28 has a ridge 25 on the end edge of the outer ring raceway surface 23 side (inner side in the axial direction) formed in the recess 24. In the longitudinal section of the rolling bearing 1, the ridge 25 can be either rounded or sharp.

[0078] The outer ring body 21 has a pair of inner circumferential surfaces 21a extending from the outer periphery of each end face 22a of the protrusion 22 to the opening edge of the outer ring 20. The portion of each inner circumferential surface 21a located inside in the axial direction is located further outward in the radial direction than the portion located outside in the axial direction.

[0079] The inner ring 10 is formed in a circular shape from a metal material such as stainless steel or bearing steel. However, the inner ring 10 is not limited to metal and can also be formed from other materials. An inner ring raceway surface 11, recessed inwardly towards the radial direction, is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the inner ring 10. The inner ring raceway surface 11 is formed in a hemispherical shape in cross-sectional view, extending along the outer surface of the rolling element 30, and is formed in a ring shape extending circumferentially throughout the entire outer circumference. The inner ring raceway surface 11 is formed in the central portion of the outer circumferential surface of the inner ring 10 in the axial direction, and is arranged facing the outer ring raceway surface 23 in the radial direction. The portion of the outer circumferential surface of the inner ring 10 other than the inner ring raceway surface 11 extends axially with a certain outer diameter.

[0080] like Figure 2 As shown, the multiple rolling elements 30 are formed in a spherical shape from a metal material such as stainless steel or bearing steel. The multiple rolling elements 30 are disposed between the outer ring raceway surface 23 and the inner ring raceway surface 11, and are supported by the outer ring raceway surface 23 and the inner ring raceway surface 11 in a rolling manner. The multiple rolling elements 30 are spaced circumferentially by a retainer 40.

[0081] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view showing the retainer according to the first embodiment.

[0082] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the retainer 40 is formed as a whole in an annular shape. The retainer 40 is made of synthetic resin or metal. The retainer 40 is arranged with a common axis O as its center. The retainer 40 includes: a base 41, which is formed in an annular shape and is disposed below a plurality of rolling elements 30; and a plurality of pillars 42, which are provided to protrude upward from the base 41 and are spaced apart in the circumferential direction. The pillars 42 are evenly arranged in the circumferential direction. A pair of pillars 42 adjacent in the circumferential direction form a ball cavity B between them. The ball cavity B penetrates the retainer 40 in the radial direction and opens upward on the upper end face 40u of the retainer 40. The ball cavities B are arranged in a manner corresponding to the number of rolling elements 30, holding the rolling elements 30 in a rolling manner. Thus, the retainer 40 arranges the rolling elements 30 evenly spaced apart in the circumferential direction. The retainer 40 is configured with a gap between it and the inner ring 10 and the outer ring 20 in a manner that does not interfere with the inner ring 10 and the outer ring 20.

[0083] like Figure 3As shown, a downwardly recessed upper portion 47 is formed on the upper end face 40u of the retainer 40. The upper recess 47 is formed between a pair of adjacent ball cavities B in the circumferential direction. That is, the upper recess 47 is formed on each column portion 42. The portion of the column portion 42 located between the upper recess 47 and the ball cavity B is a claw portion 44. The pair of claw portions 44, arranged to clamp each ball cavity B, stand upright in an arc shape, approaching each other as they face upward. Thus, the claw portions 44 hold the rolling element 30 disposed in the ball cavity B from above.

[0084] A recessed portion 48 is formed on the lower end surface 40l of the retainer 40, extending upwards. The recessed portion 48 is formed in the portion of the base 41 located below the upper recessed portion 47. However, the location of the recessed portion 48 is not limited to this. The recessed portions 48 are evenly spaced apart in the circumferential direction. The recessed portions 48 open downwards and open outwards and inwards in the radial direction. The recessed portion 48 has a bottom surface 48a and a pair of side surfaces 48b. The bottom surface 48a is a flat surface perpendicular to the axial direction. The pair of side surfaces 48b extend downwards in a direction inclined relative to the axial direction, moving away from each other from the circumferential ends of the bottom surface 48a. The portion of the lower end surface 40l of the retainer 40 other than the recessed portion 48 is a flat surface perpendicular to the axial direction.

[0085] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the sealing member 50 is formed in the shape of an annular plate. The sealing member 50 is arranged around a common axis O. The sealing member 50 is formed uniformly throughout the entire circumference. The sealing member 50 is inserted into the outer ring 20 from the outer side in the axial direction. One sealing member 50 is arranged on each side in the axial direction relative to the plurality of rolling elements 30. The sealing member 50 has: an annular base portion 51 that contacts the outer ring 20 from the outer side in the axial direction; a protrusion portion 52 that extends from the inner periphery of the base portion 51 to the outer side in the axial direction; a flat portion 53 that extends radially toward the inner ring 10 from the outer end edge of the protrusion portion 52 in the axial direction; and a locking portion 54 that extends radially and axially from the outer periphery of the base portion 51 to the outer side.

[0086] like Figure 2As shown, the base portion 51 overlaps with the end face 22a of the protrusion 22 of the outer ring 20 from the outer side in the axial direction. The base portion 51 extends substantially parallel to the end face 22a of the protrusion 22 of the outer ring 20. In a top view taken from the axial direction, the base portion 51 protrudes radially inward more than the end face 22a of the protrusion 22. The distance by which the base portion 51 protrudes radially inward from the end face 22a of the protrusion 22 is less than 10% of the radial distance between the inner ring 10 and the outer ring 20, ideally less than 5%. The protrusion 52 extends from the inner periphery of the base portion 51 to the outer side in the axial direction and to the inner side in the radial direction. The flat portion 53 overlaps with the center of the rolling element 30 in a top view. The inner periphery of the flat portion 53 is spaced apart from the outer periphery of the inner ring 10. The surface of the flat portion 53 facing inward in the axial direction is a flat surface extending in both the circumferential and radial directions. The outer periphery of the locking portion 54 engages with the inner circumferential surface 21a of the outer ring body 21 from the inner side in the axial direction. Thus, the sealing member 50 is fixed to the outer ring 20 and rotates integrally with the outer ring 20 relative to the inner ring 10.

[0087] A solid lubricant 60 is disposed inside the rolling bearing 1. The solid lubricant 60 is disposed between the rolling element 30 and the sealing member 50. The solid lubricant 60 is disposed in the annular space between the inner ring 10 and the outer ring 20 on the same side in the axial direction as the recess 24 opposite to the rolling element 30. In this embodiment, the solid lubricant 60 is disposed in the axial direction on the side that clamps the rolling element 30 and is opposite to the base 41 of the retainer 40. The solid lubricant 60 is disposed above the rolling element 30. The solid lubricant 60 is disposed in the circumferential direction. The solid lubricant 60 extends in an annular or arcuate shape and is disposed coaxially with the common axis O.

[0088] The solid lubricant 60 includes: an outer ring contact portion 61 that contacts the inner circumferential surface 22b of the protrusion 22 of the outer ring 20; and a sealing member contact portion 62 that contacts the planar portion 53 of the sealing member 50 on a side further outward in the axial direction and further inward in the radial direction than the outer ring contact portion 61. These outer ring contact portions 61 and sealing member contact portions 62 extend circumferentially along the entire length of the solid lubricant 60. The outer ring contact portion 61 has a width integrally along the axial direction in the circumferential direction. The outer ring contact portion 61 contacts the recess 24 of the inner circumferential surface 22b of the protrusion 22. The outer ring contact portion 61 contacts the entire circumference of the recess 24. The outer ring contact portion 61 contacts the outwardly facing 24a of the recess 24. In this case, ideally, the outer ring contact portion 61 also contacts at least a portion of the ridge 25 of the adjacent surface 28. Furthermore, the outer ring contact portion 61 contacts the inward surface 24b of the recess 24 and the radially inward portion of the recess 24. In this embodiment, the outer ring contact portion 61 is in complete contact with the recess 24. Ideally, the solid lubricant 60 does not contact any portion of the outer ring 20 other than the recess 24. That is, the outer ring contact portion 61 is provided at intervals along the axial direction relative to the contact portion between the outer ring 20 and the base portion 51 of the sealing member 50. The sealing member contact portion 62 has a width that is entirely radial in the circumferential direction. At a portion that is radially spaced apart from the connection portion between the protrusion portion 52 and the planar portion 53 of the sealing member 50, the sealing member contact portion 62 contacts the planar portion 53.

[0089] Solid lubricant 60 extends axially outward and radially inward from outer ring contact portion 61 toward sealing member contact portion 62. Solid lubricant 60 has an inner surface 63 and an outer surface 64.

[0090] The inner surface 63 connects the inner edge of the outer ring contact portion 61 in the axial direction to the inner edge of the sealing member contact portion 62 in the radial direction. The inner surface 63 faces the outer peripheral surface of the inner ring 10 and the rolling element 30. The upper half of the inner surface 63 extends from the inner edge of the sealing member contact portion 62 in the radial direction inward and radially inward. The lower half of the inner surface 63 extends from the inner edge of the outer ring contact portion 61 in the axial direction outward and radially inward, connecting with the lower edge of the upper half. The boundary between the upper and lower halves of the inner surface 63 forms the inner peripheral edge of the solid lubricant 60 located most radially inward. The inner surface 63 is separated from the inner ring 10, the rolling element 30, and the retainer 40. Thus, the solid lubricant 60 does not contact the inner ring 10, the rolling element 30, and the retainer 40.

[0091] The outer surface 64 connects the outer edge of the outer ring contact portion 61 in the axial direction to the outer edge of the sealing member contact portion 62 in the radial direction. The outer surface 64 faces the inner circumferential surface 22b of the protrusion 22 of the outer ring 20 and the sealing member 50. The outer surface 64 extends from the outer edge of the sealing member contact portion 62 in the radial direction inward and outward in the axial direction, and connects with the outer edge of the outer ring contact portion 61 in the axial direction. The outer surface 64 is separated from the base portion 51 and the protrusion 52 of the sealing member 50. As a result, the solid lubricant 60 does not contact the base portion 51 and the protrusion 52 of the sealing member 50, which are located on the side of the outer ring 20 closer than the planar portion 53.

[0092] The solid lubricant 60 is formed such that the cross-sectional area of ​​the plane perpendicular to the common axis O gradually increases from the outer end in the axial direction toward the inner side in the axial direction. In this embodiment, the solid lubricant 60 is formed such that, in the portion corresponding to the upper half of the inner surface 63, the cross-sectional area of ​​the plane perpendicular to the common axis O gradually increases from the outer end in the axial direction toward the inner side in the axial direction.

[0093] The composition of solid lubricant 60 is explained.

[0094] Solid lubricant 60 is a material that solidifies a mixture of lubricating grease and resin materials, sometimes also called plastic grease. Solid lubricant 60 includes lubricating grease as a lubricating component. The grease contains a base oil and a thickener, which serve as lubricating oils. Furthermore, the grease may, as needed, include components other than the base oil and thickener. For example, the grease may also include a gelling agent. In cases where the grease includes a gelling agent, it may also exclude a thickener.

[0095] There are no particular limitations on the base oil; mineral oils and synthetic oils are examples. As for the mineral oil, well-known mineral oils used as base oils can be used, such as naphthenic mineral oils, paraffinic mineral oils, hydrogenated mineral oils, solvent-refined mineral oils, and highly refined mineral oils. A single mineral oil can be used, or two or more can be used in combination. For example, multiple types of mineral oils can be mixed and adjusted to achieve the desired properties.

[0096] As synthetic oils, well-known synthetic oils that can be used as base oils can be used, such as aliphatic hydrocarbon oils like polyalphaolefin (PAO) or polybutene, aromatic hydrocarbon oils like alkylbenzene and alkylnaphthalene, ester oils like polyol esters and phosphate esters, ether oils like polyphenylene ethers, polyalkylene glycol oils, silicone oils, and fluorinated oils. These synthetic oils can be used alone or in combination of two or more. For example, multiple types of synthetic oils can be mixed and adjusted to achieve the desired properties.

[0097] Thickeners serve to maintain the grease in a semi-solid state. Well-known thickeners commonly used in rolling bearing greases can be used as thickeners. A well-known thickener that meets the dropping point conditions of the grease (described later) is selected. Examples of thickeners include lithium soap or lithium complex soap, urea compounds, polytetrafluoroethylene, clay, and calcium sulfonate complex soap. A single thickener can be used, or two or more can be used in combination. For example, multiple types of thickeners can be mixed and adjusted to achieve the desired properties.

[0098] The solid lubricant 60 includes a resin material as a component for retaining grease. The resin material has resin particles dispersed in the solid lubricant 60 and bonded together. The resin material retains the grease in the voids formed by the dispersed resin particles. The resin material is, for example, an ultra-high molecular weight polyolefin. Alternatively, polyacetal or nylon 6 can be used as the resin material.

[0099] Next, regarding the manufacturing method of the rolling bearing 1 of this embodiment, the method for forming the solid lubricant 60 will be described. The method for forming the solid lubricant 60 of this embodiment includes a coating step and a heating and cooling step.

[0100] Figure 4 and Figure 5 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a rolling bearing illustrating the method for forming a solid lubricant according to the first embodiment.

[0101] like Figure 4As shown, in the coating process, a semi-solid mixture 70 of grease and resin material particles is disposed inside the rolling bearing 1 and shaped as a solid lubricant 60. Initially, the mixture 70 is disposed inside the rolling bearing 1 with the sealing member 50 not installed on the outer ring 20. That is, the mixture 70 is applied with the annular space between the inner ring 10 and the outer ring 20 open in the axial direction and the rolling elements 30 and the retainer 40 exposed. In this embodiment, the nozzle A is rotated relative to the outer ring 20 about a common axis O, and the mixture is simultaneously ejected from the nozzle A. At this time, the orientation of the nozzle A is adjusted so that the mixture 70 is ejected from the nozzle A to the outer side in the radial direction and the inner side in the axial direction. Furthermore, the position of the nozzle A is adjusted so that the ejected mixture 70 contacts the recess 24 of the adjacent surface 28 of the outer ring 20, and the mixture 70 does not contact the rolling elements 30 and the retainer 40. The nozzle A rotates relative to the outer ring 20 while simultaneously ejecting the mixture 70, so that the mixture 70 applied to the outer ring 20 extends in a circumferential or arc shape. Furthermore, the mixture 70 is applied in a manner that follows the ejection direction from the nozzle A, protruding outwards in the axial direction and inwards in the radial direction from the contact portion with the outer ring 20. The outer end face of the applied mixture 70 is formed in a convex shape that bulges outwards in the axial direction.

[0102] Next, as Figure 5 As shown, the sealing member 50 is brought closer to the outer ring 20 from the outer side in the axial direction, and the sealing member 50 is assembled onto the outer ring 20. During the process of moving the sealing member 50 inward in the axial direction, before the base portion 51 contacts the end face 22a of the protrusion 22 of the outer ring 20, the flat portion 53 of the sealing member 50 is initially brought into contact with the outer edge of the mixture 70 in the axial direction. At this time, the mixture 70 is brought into contact with the radially intermediate portion of the flat portion 53. Furthermore, the radially intermediate portion should be located further radially inward than the outer periphery of the flat portion 53 and further radially outward than the inner periphery. Subsequently, the sealing member 50 is brought closer to the outer ring 20 so that the base portion 51 contacts the end face 22a of the protrusion 22 of the outer ring 20 from the outer side in the axial direction. At this time, the flat portion 53 of the sealing member 50 pushes the mixture 70 inward in the axial direction. As a result, the mixture 70 is pushed by the flat portion 53 and expands in the radial direction, forming the portion that becomes the sealing member contact portion 62.

[0103] Through the above, the mixture 70 is substantially formed into the finished shape of the solid lubricant 60. Furthermore, in the coating process of this embodiment, the nozzle A is rotated relative to the outer ring 20 while the mixture 70 is coated, but the mixture 70 can also be ejected from a nozzle having a discharge hole extending in the circumferential direction, and the mixture 70 can be coated in a circumferential or arc shape.

[0104] Next, a heating and cooling process is performed after the coating process. In the heating and cooling process, the formed mixture 70 is heated and cooled. In this embodiment, the mixture 70, along with the rolling bearing 1, is heated and cooled. Initially, the mixture 70 is heated to above the gelation temperature of the resin material. Ideally, the mixture 70 is heated to a temperature lower than the dropping point of the grease. Then, the mixture 70 is cooled to a temperature lower than the gelation temperature of the resin material, causing the mixture 70 to solidify. As a result, the resin material particles dispersed in the mixture 70 bind together to form a solid lubricant 60 that retains the grease in the voids of the resin material.

[0105] As described above, in this embodiment, the rolling bearing 1 has the following configuration. The rolling bearing 1 includes a solid lubricant 60 in which grease is retained by a cured resin material. On the inner circumferential surface 22b of the protrusion 22 of the outer ring 20, an outer ring raceway surface 23 is formed to support the rolling element 30 in a rolling manner, and an adjacent surface 28 extends axially from the end edge of the outer ring raceway surface 23. The solid lubricant 60 contacts a recess 24 formed in the adjacent surface 28. With this configuration, the solid lubricant 60 is disposed on the inner circumferential surface 22b of the outer ring 20, so the base oil of the grease seeping from the solid lubricant 60 can be supplied to the sliding parts such as the rolling element 30, thereby reducing the rotational torque of the rolling bearing 1. Furthermore, since the solid lubricant 60 contacts the recess 24, the solid lubricant 60 engages with the recess 24, making it difficult for the rolling bearing 1 to deviate from its position during use. In particular, in this embodiment, the recess 24 is formed on the inner peripheral surface 22b, thus limiting the positional deviation of the solid lubricant 60 in the axial direction. This suppresses contact between the solid lubricant 60 and the rolling elements 30, etc. Therefore, a rolling bearing 1 capable of suppressing the increase of rotational torque over a long period can be provided.

[0106] Furthermore, in the prior art, it is necessary to demold the solid lubricant, which has been pre-cured in a mold, before assembling it into the rolling bearing. In this embodiment, as a method for forming the solid lubricant 60, a method can be used where a mixture of the solid lubricant 60 before curing is applied to the recess 24 and then cured. Regarding the method for forming the solid lubricant 60 in this embodiment, a mixture of resin material and grease is heated to above the gelation temperature of the resin material while in contact with the recess 24, and then cooled and cured. According to this method, the mixture can be placed inside the rolling bearing 1 in an uncured state. Therefore, even when it is difficult to place the cured solid lubricant inside the rolling bearing, the solid lubricant 60 can be placed in a predetermined position.

[0107] The solid lubricant 60 contacts the outwardly facing portion 24a of the recess 24, which is inclined outward in the axial direction relative to the radial direction. According to this configuration, the outwardly facing portion 24a of the recess 24 restricts the solid lubricant 60 from displacing inward in the axial direction. Therefore, it is possible to effectively suppress the solid lubricant 60 from its initial position and from approaching the rolling element 30 during repeated use of the rolling bearing 1.

[0108] The recess 24 has an inward surface 24b that slopes inward toward the axial direction relative to the radial direction. According to this configuration, the inward surface 24b of the recess 24 restricts the outward displacement of the solid lubricant 60 in the axial direction. Therefore, it is possible to more reliably suppress the positional deviation of the solid lubricant 60 from its initial position toward the outward displacement in the axial direction during repeated use of the rolling bearing 1.

[0109] The solid lubricant 60 contacts the sealing member 50 from the inner side in the axial direction. According to this configuration, the sealing member 50 restricts the solid lubricant 60 from displacing outward in the axial direction. Therefore, it is possible to more reliably suppress the solid lubricant 60 from its initial position to the outer side in the axial direction during repeated use of the rolling bearing 1.

[0110] The recesses 24 are spaced apart axially from the outer ring raceway surface 23. This configuration prevents the solid lubricant 60 within the recesses 24 from contacting the rolling elements 30 rolling on the outer ring raceway surface 23. Consequently, it suppresses the increase in the rotational torque of the rolling bearing 1.

[0111] The recess 24 is provided at intervals along the axial direction relative to the end face 22a of the protrusion 22. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the base oil of the grease included in the solid lubricant 60 from flowing out from the recess 24 toward the end face 22a and from leaking out from the gap between the end face 22a and the base portion 51 of the sealing member 50.

[0112] The recess 24 extends continuously and integrally in the circumferential direction. Based on this configuration, the solid lubricant 60 layers arranged along the circumferential direction and its entire length are difficult to displace in the axial direction due to the recess 24. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the increase in the rotational torque of the rolling bearing 1.

[0113] The solid lubricant 60 contacts the edge 25 of the end edge formed on the side of the outer raceway surface 23 of the recess 24. According to this configuration, the base oil of the grease that seeps out from the solid lubricant 60 does not need to cross the edge 25 in the process of reaching the outer raceway surface 23, so it is possible to suppress the insufficient supply of the base oil of the grease to the rolling element 30.

[0114] The solid lubricant 60 has: an outer ring contact portion 61 that contacts the inner circumferential surface 22b of the protrusion 22 of the outer ring 20; and a sealing member contact portion 62 that contacts the planar portion 53 of the sealing member 50 on a side further outward in the axial direction and further inward in the radial direction than the outer ring contact portion 61. The area of ​​the sealing member contact portion 62 is larger than the contact area between the solid lubricant 60 and the protrusion 52 and the base portion 51 in the sealing member 50. With this configuration, after the mixture of the solid lubricant 60 before curing is applied to a predetermined location and the sealing member 50 is assembled, there is room for the mixture, which is pushed inward in the axial direction by the planar portion 53 of the sealing member 50, to expand radially toward the protrusion 52 and the base portion 51. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the significant expansion of the semi-solid mixture toward the inner ring 10 and the rolling element 30. Consequently, it is possible to suppress the increase in rotational torque due to contact between the solid lubricant 60 and the rolling element 30 and the retainer 40.

[0115] Furthermore, since a protrusion 52 is provided between the flat portion 53 and the base portion 51 in the sealing member 50, compared to a configuration where the flat portion extends radially inward from the base portion, the solid lubricant 60 can be positioned further away from the rolling element 30. Therefore, the amount of solid lubricant 60 can be increased.

[0116] Furthermore, the sealing contact portion 62 is located at the center of the solid lubricant 60 in the radial direction when viewed from above. According to this configuration, when the sealing member 50 is assembled, the semi-solid mixture is pushed by the planar portion 53 and thus expands radially. Because the sealing contact portion 62 is located at the center of the solid lubricant 60 in the radial direction when viewed from above, it is possible to suppress the mixture from expanding significantly inward in the axial direction toward the rolling element 30. Therefore, direct contact between the solid lubricant 60 and the rolling element 30 can be easily prevented.

[0117] The solid lubricant 60 does not contact the protrusion 52. With this configuration, when assembling the sealing member 50, the semi-solid mixture, which is pushed axially inward by the flat portion 53 of the sealing member 50, can have a greater capacity to expand radially toward the protrusion 52. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the excessive expansion of the mixture toward the inner ring 10 and the rolling element 30. Consequently, it is easy to prevent the solid lubricant 60 from contacting the rolling element 30, the retainer 40, and the inner ring 10.

[0118] The outer ring contact portion 61 is provided at an axial distance from the contact portions of the outer ring 20 and the base portion 51. This configuration prevents the solid lubricant 60 from contacting the contact portions of the outer ring 20 and the base portion 51. Consequently, leakage of the base oil of the grease included in the solid lubricant 60 to the outside of the sealing member 50 due to capillary action at the contact portions of the outer ring 20 and the base portion 51 can be suppressed.

[0119] The solid lubricant 60 does not contact the base portion 51. This configuration prevents the solid lubricant 60 from contacting the contact portion between the outer ring 20 and the base portion 51. Consequently, leakage of the base oil of the grease included in the solid lubricant 60 to the outside of the sealing member 50 due to capillary action at the contact portion between the outer ring 20 and the base portion 51 can be suppressed.

[0120] Furthermore, the rotating device 2 according to this embodiment is equipped with a rolling bearing 1 that can suppress the increase of rotational torque over a long period of time, thus achieving a long service life and energy saving for the rotating device 2.

[0121] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the recess 24 extends in a curved shape on the longitudinal section of the rolling bearing 1, but this configuration is not limited to this. Figure 6 As shown, the recess 24A can also be formed by dividing a rectangular space on the longitudinal section of the rolling bearing 1. In this case, the recess 24A has an outward surface 24Aa, which faces outward in a direction inclined relative to the radial direction towards the axial direction (radially inward and above, or above); and an inward surface 24Ab, which faces inward in a direction inclined relative to the radial direction towards the axial direction (radially inward and below, or below). Moreover, ideally, the solid lubricant 60 contacts the outward surface 24Aa of the recess 24A and the edge 25 of the adjacent surface 28.

[0122] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the recess 24 opens only on the adjacent surface 28, but this configuration is not limited to this. Figure 7 As shown, the recess 24B can also be provided without spacing relative to the upward-facing end face 22a in the axial direction, with openings in both the adjacent surface 28 and the upward-facing end face 22a. In this case, the recess 24B has an outwardly facing 24Ba that is inclined outward in the axial direction relative to the radial direction (radially inward and upward, or upward). Moreover, ideally, the solid lubricant 60 contacts the outwardly facing 24Ba of the recess 24B and the edge 25 of the adjacent surface 28.

[0123] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the recess 24 extends continuously throughout the circumferential direction, but this configuration is not limited to this. The recess may also be formed discontinuously in the circumferential direction, with at least a portion having an interruption in the circumferential direction.

[0124] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the base portion 51 of the sealing member 50 protrudes radially inward from the end face 22a of the protrusion 22 of the outer ring 20 when viewed from above. However, ideally, the base portion is configured such that it does not protrude radially inward more than the end face 22a of the protrusion 22 when viewed from above. According to this configuration, even if the outer ring contact portion 61 of the solid lubricant 60 extends axially outward beyond the inner periphery of the end face 22a, it is possible to suppress the adhesion of the solid lubricant 60 to the base portion. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the solid lubricant 60 from contacting the contact portion between the outer ring 20 and the base portion. Consequently, it is possible to suppress the leakage of the solid lubricant 60 to the outside of the sealing member through the contact portion between the outer ring 20 and the base portion due to capillary action.

[0125] In addition, in the first embodiment, the solid lubricant 60 does not contact the base portion 51 and the protrusion portion 52 of the sealing member 50, but this configuration is not limited. The solid lubricant may also contact at least one of the base portion 51 and the protrusion portion 52 of the sealing member 50, as long as the area of ​​the contact portion of the sealing member is larger than the contact area between the solid lubricant and the protrusion portion 52 and the base portion 51.

[0126] In addition, in the first embodiment, a solid lubricant 60 is formed by heating a mixture of resin material and grease to above the gelation temperature of the resin material while in contact with the recess 24, followed by cooling and solidification. However, the method of forming the solid lubricant 60 is not limited to this. A solid lubricant 60 pre-cured to a predetermined shape can also be embedded into the outer ring 20. In this case, the solid lubricant 60 is formed by heating and cooling the semi-solid mixture within a mold. According to this method, the process of applying a semi-solid mixture to the inside of the rolling bearing 1 is eliminated, thus simplifying the manufacturing process of the rolling bearing 1. Furthermore, the solid lubricant 60 can be formed with good precision using a mold, and contact between the solid lubricant 60 and the rolling elements 30 can be more reliably suppressed.

[0127] [Second Implementation] Next, refer to Figure 8 The second embodiment will now be described. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the rolling bearing 1A uses a solid lubricant 160 instead of the solid lubricant 60 of the first embodiment. Furthermore, the configuration, except for the configuration described below, is the same as that of the first embodiment.

[0128] Figure 8 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the rolling bearing according to the second embodiment.

[0129] like Figure 8As shown, the solid lubricant 160 is disposed along the circumferential direction. The solid lubricant 160 extends in a ring shape and is coaxially disposed with respect to the common axis O. The solid lubricant 160 has an outer ring contact portion 161 that contacts the inner circumferential surface 22b of the protrusion 22 of the outer ring 20, and does not contact the inner ring 10, the sealing member 50, the rolling element 30, or the retainer 40. The outer ring contact portion 161 extends circumferentially along the entire length of the solid lubricant 160. The outer ring contact portion 161 has a width integrally along the axial direction throughout the circumferential direction. The outer ring contact portion 161 contacts the recess 24 of the adjacent surface 28. Ideally, the solid lubricant 160 does not contact any part of the outer ring 20 other than the recess 24. That is, the outer ring contact portion 161 is disposed axially spaced apart from the contact portions of the outer ring 20 and the base portion 51 of the sealing member 50.

[0130] In this embodiment, the same effect as in the first embodiment is achieved. However, in this embodiment, the solid lubricant 160 does not contact the sealing member 50, so when the sealing member 50 is assembled onto the outer ring 20, the mixture of solid lubricant 160 before curing is not pushed by the sealing member 50. This suppresses the movement of the semi-solid mixture in the axial direction inward, and prevents the solid lubricant 160 from contacting the rolling element 30 or the retainer 40 beyond what is necessary. Therefore, it suppresses the increase in the rotational torque of the rolling bearing 1A.

[0131] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, the solid lubricant 160 extends in a circular shape, but is not limited to this configuration. The solid lubricant may also extend in an arc shape with discontinuous portions, or it may have multiple particles arranged in a dotted pattern throughout the circumference. When the solid lubricant has multiple particles, the multiple particles arranged in the circumferential direction may be integrated or separated from each other.

[0132] [Third Implementation] Next, refer to Figure 9 The third embodiment will now be described. The rolling bearing 1C of the third embodiment differs from the rolling bearing 1 of the first embodiment in that the solid lubricant 260 contacts only the outwardly extending portion 24Ca of the recess 24C. Furthermore, its configuration, except for the configuration described below, is the same as that of the first embodiment.

[0133] Figure 9 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the rolling bearing according to the third embodiment.

[0134] like Figure 9As shown, a recess 24C is formed on the adjacent surface 28 of the outer ring 20, which is recessed outward in the radial direction. The recess 24C is provided without spacing from the end face 22a of the upward-facing protrusion 22 in the axial direction, and opens on both the adjacent surface 28 and the upward-facing end face 22a. The recess 24C includes: an outward 24Ca, which faces outward in a direction inclined outward in the axial direction relative to the radial direction (inward in the radial direction and upward, or upward); and a cylindrical surface 24Cc, which faces inward in the radial direction. The outward 24Ca is a concave curved surface. The cylindrical surface 24Cc extends in the axial direction, and its end edge in the axial direction is smoothly connected to the outward 24Ca in a tangentially continuous manner.

[0135] The solid lubricant 260 includes: an outer ring contact portion 261 that contacts the inner circumferential surface 22b of the protrusion 22 of the outer ring 20; and a sealing member contact portion 262 that contacts the sealing member 50 on a side further outward in the axial direction and further inward in the radial direction than the outer ring contact portion 261. The outer ring contact portion 261 contacts the recess 24C of the adjacent surface 28. The outer ring contact portion 261 contacts the recess 24C throughout its entire circumference. The outer ring contact portion 261 contacts only the outwardly facing 24Ca of the recess 24C. In this case, ideally, the outer ring contact portion 261 also contacts at least a portion of the ridge 25 of the adjacent surface 28. However, the outer ring contact portion 261 may not contact the ridge 25 of the adjacent surface 28. In this embodiment, the sealing member contact portion 262 is the portion of the solid lubricant 260 that contacts the planar portion 53 of the sealing member 50. In this embodiment, the solid lubricant 260 also contacts the base portion 51 and the protrusion 52 of the sealing member 50. However, when the solid lubricant 260 contacts at least one of the base portion 51 and the protrusion 52 of the sealing member 50, it is ideal that the area of ​​the sealing member contact portion 262 is larger than the contact area between the solid lubricant 260 and the protrusion 52 and the base portion 51. Alternatively, the solid lubricant 260 may not contact at least one of the base portion 51 and the protrusion 52. The solid lubricant 260 is formed such that the cross-sectional area of ​​the section along the vertical plane of the common axis O gradually increases from the outer end in the axial direction toward the inner side in the axial direction.

[0136] The solid lubricant 260 includes: a first annular portion 260a that contacts the outer ring 20; and a second annular portion 260b that connects to the first annular portion 260a and contacts the sealing member 50. The first annular portion 260a and the second annular portion 260b are formed by applying a mixture of the solid lubricant 260 before curing in two separate applications. The first annular portion 260a and the second annular portion 260b extend circumferentially around a common axis O. However, it is also possible that at least one of the first annular portion 260a and the second annular portion 260b extends less than 360° around the common axis O. The first annular portion 260a includes an outer ring contact portion 261. The second annular portion 260b is disposed relative to the first annular portion 260a on the side opposite to the outer ring 20 in the radial direction (i.e., the inner side in the radial direction). The second annular portion 260b is integrally connected to the first annular portion 260a on its outer side in the axial direction. The second annular portion 260b has a sealing member contact portion 262.

[0137] In this embodiment, the same effect as in the first embodiment is achieved. However, in this embodiment, the recess 24C opens at the end face 22a of the upward-facing protrusion 22, and the solid lubricant 260 only contacts the outwardly facing 24Ca of the recess 24C. This configuration prevents the base oil of the grease included in the solid lubricant 260 from flowing out from the recess 24C towards the end face 22a and leaking through the gap between the end face 22a and the base portion 51 of the sealing member 50.

[0138] Furthermore, in the third embodiment, the first annular portion 260a and the second annular portion 260b extend in a circumferential shape, but this configuration is not limited to this. Alternatively, at least one of the first annular portion and the second annular portion may have particles arranged in a dotted pattern throughout the entire circumference. In this case, the plurality of particles arranged in the circumferential direction may be integrated or separated from each other.

[0139] Furthermore, in the third embodiment, the solid lubricant 260 has a first annular portion 260a and a second annular portion 260b, but is not limited to this configuration. For example... Figure 10 As shown, the solid lubricant 260A can also be formed from a single annular portion having an outer ring contact portion 261 and a sealing component contact portion 262.

[0140] [Fourth Implementation] Next, refer to Figure 11 The fourth embodiment will now be described. The rolling bearing 1D of the fourth embodiment differs from the rolling bearing 1 of the first embodiment in that the solid lubricant 360 is arranged axially along the recess 24D. Furthermore, except for the configuration described below, the configuration is the same as that of the first embodiment.

[0141] Figure 11This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the rolling bearing according to the fourth embodiment.

[0142] like Figure 11 As shown, a recess 24D is formed on the adjacent surface 28 of the outer ring 20, which is recessed outward in the radial direction. The recess 24D is provided without spacing from the end face 22a of the upward-facing protrusion 22 in the axial direction, and opens on both the adjacent surface 28 and the upward-facing end face 22a. The recess 24D includes: an outward 24Da, which faces outward in a direction inclined outward in the axial direction relative to the radial direction (inward in the radial direction and upward, or upward); and a cylindrical surface 24Dc, which faces inward in the radial direction. The outward 24Da is a concave curved surface. The cylindrical surface 24Dc extends in the axial direction, and its end edge in the axial direction is smoothly connected to the outward 24Da in a tangentially continuous manner. The recess 24D extends in the axial direction in the longitudinal section of the rolling bearing 1D in such a way that the width in the axial direction is greater than the depth in the radial direction. In addition, the outward surface can also be a flat surface facing outward in the axial direction or a conical surface facing outward in the axial direction and inward in the radial direction.

[0143] The solid lubricant 360 has an outer ring contact portion 361 that contacts the inner circumferential surface 22b of the protrusion 22 of the outer ring 20. The outer ring contact portion 361 contacts the recess 24D of the adjacent surface 28. The outer ring contact portion 361 contacts the recess 24D throughout its entire circumference. The outer ring contact portion 361 contacts the outward 24Da and cylindrical surface 24Dc of the recess 24D. The outer ring contact portion 361 also contacts at least a portion of the ridge 25 of the adjacent surface 28. The solid lubricant 360 contacts the sealing member 50. In this embodiment, the solid lubricant 360 contacts the base portion 51 and the protrusion 52 of the sealing member 50.

[0144] Solid lubricant 360 is disposed axially along the recess 24D on the longitudinal section of the rolling bearing 1D. The solid lubricant 360 includes a first annular portion 360a, a second annular portion 360b, and a third annular portion 360c arranged side-by-side in the axial direction. The first annular portion 360a, the second annular portion 360b, and the third annular portion 360c are formed by applying a mixture of the solid lubricant 360 before curing in three separate applications. The first annular portion 360a, the second annular portion 360b, and the third annular portion 360c extend circumferentially around a common axis O. However, it is also possible that at least one of the first annular portion 360a, the second annular portion 360b, and the third annular portion 360c extends less than 360° around the common axis O. The first annular portion 360a contacts the outwardly facing 24Da and the cylindrical surface 24Dc of the recess 24D. The second annular portion 360b is connected to the first annular portion 360a on its outer side in the axial direction. The second annular portion 360b contacts the cylindrical surface 24Dc of the recess 24D. The third annular portion 360c is connected to the second annular portion 360b on its outer side in the axial direction. The third annular portion 360c contacts the cylindrical surface 24Dc of the recess 24D and the sealing member 50.

[0145] In this embodiment, the same effect as in the first embodiment is achieved. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the solid lubricant 360 is disposed axially along the recess 24D, so the axial displacement of the solid lubricant 360 can be effectively limited by the recess 24D, and the solid lubricant 360 can be prevented from displacing and contacting the rolling element 30 or the retainer 40. Therefore, a rolling bearing 1D that suppresses the increase of rotational torque can be provided.

[0146] Furthermore, in the fourth embodiment, the first annular portion 360a, the second annular portion 360b, and the third annular portion 360c extend in a circumferential shape, but this configuration is not limited to this. Alternatively, at least one of the first annular portion, the second annular portion, and the third annular portion may have particles arranged in a dotted pattern throughout the entire circumference. In this case, the plurality of particles arranged in the circumferential direction may be integrated or separated from each other.

[0147] Furthermore, in the fourth embodiment, the solid lubricant 360 has a first annular portion 360a, a second annular portion 360b, and a third annular portion 360c, but is not limited to this configuration. For example... Figure 12 As shown, solid lubricant 360A can also extend axially along the recess 24D on the longitudinal section of rolling bearing 1D.

[0148] Furthermore, in the fourth embodiment, the solid lubricant 360 contacts the edge 25 of the adjacent surface 28 of the outer ring 20, but this configuration is not limited to this. Figure 13As shown, the solid lubricant 360B may also not contact the ridge portion 25. In this case, the first annular portion 360a may also be formed to be smaller than the second annular portion 360b and the third annular portion 360c in the longitudinal section of the rolling bearing 1D, so as not to contact the ridge portion 25. According to this configuration, contrary to the possibility that the supply of the base oil of the grease to the rolling element 30 may be insufficient, the overall amount of solid lubricant 360B can be increased, giving the rolling bearing 1D higher durability.

[0149] [Fifth Implementation] Next, refer to Figure 14 The fifth embodiment will now be described. The rolling bearing 1E of the fifth embodiment differs from the rolling bearing 1 of the first embodiment in that the deepest portion in the radial direction of the recess 24E is formed further inward in the axial direction than the middle position of the recess 24E in the axial direction. Furthermore, the configuration, except for the configuration described below, is the same as that of the first embodiment.

[0150] Figure 14 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the rolling bearing according to the fifth embodiment.

[0151] like Figure 14 As shown, a recess 24E is formed on the adjacent surface 28 of the outer ring 20, extending radially outward. The recesses 24E are spaced apart axially from the raceway surface 23 of the outer ring. The recesses 24E are also spaced apart axially from the upward-facing end face 22a. The recesses 24E are formed in the longitudinal section of the rolling bearing 1E such that their width in the axial direction is greater than their depth in the radial direction. The recesses 24E include: an outer surface 24Ea, oriented in a direction inclined outward relative to the radial direction towards the axial direction (radially inward and upward, or upward); an inner surface 24Eb, oriented in a direction inclined inward relative to the radial direction towards the axial direction (radially inward and downward, or downward); and a cylindrical surface 24Ec, oriented inward in the radial direction. In this embodiment, the outer surface 24Ea and the inner surface 24Eb are oriented in the axial direction. Thus, the recesses 24E are formed in a rectangular shape in the longitudinal section of the rolling bearing 1E. The cylindrical surface 24Ec is located at the deepest point in the radial direction within the recess 24E, and extends across the middle position of the axial direction of the recess 24E. Thus, the deepest part in the radial direction within the recess 24E is formed further inward in the axial direction than the middle position of the axial direction of the recess 24E.

[0152] The solid lubricant 460 includes: an outer ring contact portion 461 that contacts the inner circumferential surface 22b of the protrusion 22 of the outer ring 20; and a sealing member contact portion 462 that contacts the planar portion 53 of the sealing member 50 on a side further outward in the axial direction and inward in the radial direction than the outer ring contact portion 461. The outer ring contact portion 461 contacts the recess 24E of the adjacent surface 28. The outer ring contact portion 461 contacts the recess 24E throughout its entire circumference. The outer ring contact portion 461 contacts the outer surface 24Ea and the cylindrical surface 24Ec of the recess 24E. The outer ring contact portion 461 also contacts at least a portion of the ridge 25 of the adjacent surface 28. The solid lubricant 460 does not contact the inner surface 24Eb of the recess 24E. However, the solid lubricant 460 may also contact the inner surface 24Eb of the recess 24E. In this embodiment, the sealing member contact portion 462 is the portion of the solid lubricant 460 that contacts the planar portion 53 of the sealing member 50. In this embodiment, the solid lubricant 460 does not contact the base portion 51 or the protrusion portion 52 of the sealing member 50. However, the solid lubricant 460 may contact at least one of the base portion 51 and the protrusion portion 52 of the sealing member 50. In this case, ideally, the area of ​​the sealing member contact portion 462 is larger than the contact area between the solid lubricant 460 and the protrusion portion 52 and the base portion 51. The solid lubricant 460 extends from the outer ring contact portion 461 toward the sealing member contact portion 462, axially outward and radially inward.

[0153] In this embodiment, the same effects as in the first embodiment are achieved. However, in this embodiment, the deepest part of the recess 24E in the radial direction is formed further inward in the axial direction than the middle position of the recess 24E in the axial direction. According to this configuration, when the mixture of solid lubricant 460 before curing is dispensed from the nozzle and applied to a predetermined area, it is easy to insert the end of the nozzle from the outside of the rolling bearing 1E to the inside of the outer ring 20 and the inner ring 10, approaching the recess 24E. Therefore, in small-diameter rolling bearings 1E, improved productivity can be achieved. Furthermore, because the nozzle is easily brought close to the recess 24E, the mixture can be applied with good precision, and contact between the solid lubricant 460 and the rolling elements 30 can be suppressed. Therefore, the increase in the rotational torque of the rolling bearing 1E can be suppressed.

[0154] Furthermore, in the fifth embodiment, recesses 24E are symmetrically formed on the longitudinal section of the rolling bearing 1E, but this configuration is not limited to this. Figure 15 and Figure 16 As shown, recesses 124E and 224E can also be formed asymmetrically on the longitudinal section of the rolling bearing 1E. Hereinafter, for... Figure 15 and Figure 16 The following is an example of the deformation shown.

[0155] exist Figure 15 In the first modified example shown, the recess 124E is formed on the longitudinal section of the rolling bearing 1E such that its width in the axial direction is greater than its depth in the radial direction. The recess 124E includes: an outwardly facing surface 124Ea, which is inclined outward relative to the radial direction towards the axial direction (radially inward and above, or above); and an inwardly facing surface 124Eb, which is inclined inward relative to the radial direction towards the axial direction (radially inward and below, or below). The outwardly facing surface 124Ea is a curved surface recessed inward in the axial direction and outward in the radial direction. The inwardly facing surface 124Eb is a conical surface extending outward in the axial direction and inward in the radial direction from the outer edge of the outwardly facing surface 124Ea. The connection between the outwardly facing surface 124Ea and the inwardly facing surface 124Eb is located further inward in the axial direction than the middle position of the recess 124E in the axial direction. Therefore, the deepest part in the radial direction of the recess 124E is formed on the inner side of the axial direction, which is closer to the center position of the recess 124E in the axial direction.

[0156] Solid lubricant 460A includes: an outer ring contact portion 461A that contacts the inner circumferential surface 22b of the protrusion 22 of the outer ring 20; and a sealing member contact portion 462A that contacts the planar portion 53 of the sealing member 50 on a side further outward in the axial direction and inward in the radial direction than the outer ring contact portion 461A. The outer ring contact portion 461A contacts the recess 124E of the adjacent surface 28. The outer ring contact portion 461A contacts the recess 124E throughout its entire circumference. The outer ring contact portion 461A contacts the outward 124Ea of the recess 124E. The outer ring contact portion 461A contacts the inward surface 124Eb of the recess 124E. The outer ring contact portion 461A contacts the connecting portion of the outward 124Ea and the inward surface 124Eb of the recess 124E. Solid lubricant 460A does not contact the ridge portion 25 of the adjacent surface 28. However, solid lubricant 460A can also contact the edge 25 of the adjacent surface 28.

[0157] In this modified example, the sealing member contact portion 462A is the portion of the solid lubricant 460A that contacts the planar portion 53 of the sealing member 50. In this modified example, the solid lubricant 460A does not contact the base portion 51 and the protrusion 52 of the sealing member 50. However, the solid lubricant 460A may also contact at least one of the base portion 51 and the protrusion 52 of the sealing member 50. In this case, ideally, the area of ​​the sealing member contact portion 462A is larger than the contact area between the solid lubricant 460A and the protrusion 52 and the base portion 51. The solid lubricant 460A may also be formed such that the cross-sectional area of ​​the section along the vertical plane of the common axis O gradually increases from the outer end in the axial direction toward the inner side in the axial direction. The solid lubricant 460A extends from the outer ring contact portion 461A toward the sealing member contact portion 462A in the axial direction outward and in the radial direction inward. Solid lubricant 460A extends from the outer ring contact portion 461A along the inner surface 124Eb of the recess 124E.

[0158] exist Figure 16 In the second modified example shown, the recess 224E is formed on the longitudinal section of the rolling bearing 1E such that its width in the axial direction is greater than its depth in the radial direction. The recess 224E includes: an outwardly facing surface 224Ea, which is inclined outward relative to the radial direction towards the axial direction (radially inward and above, or above); and an inwardly facing surface 224Eb, which is inclined inward relative to the radial direction towards the axial direction (radially inward and below, or below). The outwardly facing surface 224Ea is a plane facing outward in the axial direction. The inwardly facing surface 224Eb is a conical surface extending outward and radially inward from the radially outer edge of the outwardly facing surface 224Ea. The connection between the outwardly facing surface 224Ea and the inwardly facing surface 224Eb is located further inward in the axial direction than the intermediate position of the recess 224E in the axial direction. Therefore, the deepest part of the recess 224E in the radial direction is formed further inward in the axial direction than the intermediate position of the recess 224E in the axial direction.

[0159] The solid lubricant 460B includes: an outer ring contact portion 461B that contacts the inner circumferential surface 22b of the protrusion 22 of the outer ring 20; and a sealing member contact portion 462B that contacts the planar portion 53 of the sealing member 50 on a side further outward in the axial direction and inward in the radial direction than the outer ring contact portion 461B. The outer ring contact portion 461B contacts the recess 224E of the adjacent surface 28. The outer ring contact portion 461B contacts the recess 224E throughout its entire circumference. The outer ring contact portion 461B contacts the outwardly facing 224Ea of the recess 224E. The outer ring contact portion 461B contacts the inwardly facing 224Eb of the recess 224E. The outer ring contact portion 461B does not contact the connecting portion between the outwardly facing 224Ea and the inwardly facing 224Eb of the recess 224E. The solid lubricant 460B does not contact the ridge portion 25 of the adjacent surface 28. However, solid lubricant 460B can also contact the edge 25 of the adjacent surface 28.

[0160] In this modified example, the sealing member contact portion 462B is the portion of the solid lubricant 460B that contacts the planar portion 53 of the sealing member 50. In this modified example, the solid lubricant 460B does not contact the base portion 51 and the protrusion 52 of the sealing member 50. However, the solid lubricant 460B may also contact at least one of the base portion 51 and the protrusion 52 of the sealing member 50. In this case, ideally, the area of ​​the sealing member contact portion 462B is larger than the contact area between the solid lubricant 460B and the protrusion 52 and the base portion 51. The solid lubricant 460B may also be formed such that the cross-sectional area of ​​the section along the vertical plane of the common axis O gradually increases from the outer end in the axial direction toward the inner side in the axial direction. The solid lubricant 460B extends from the outer ring contact portion 461B toward the sealing member contact portion 462B in the axial direction outward and in the radial direction inward. Solid lubricant 460B extends from the outer ring contact portion 461B along the inner surface 224Eb of the recess 224E.

[0161] Even the rolling bearing 1E in these modified examples achieves the same effect as in the fifth embodiment.

[0162] [Sixth Implementation] Next, refer to Figure 17 The sixth embodiment will now be described. The shape of the inner circumferential surface 22b of the protrusion 22 of the outer ring 20 of the rolling bearing 1F in the sixth embodiment differs from that of the rolling bearing 1 in the first embodiment. Furthermore, the configuration, except for the configuration described below, is the same as that in the first embodiment.

[0163] Figure 17 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the rolling bearing according to the sixth embodiment.

[0164] like Figure 17As shown, a recess 24 and a connecting surface 26 are formed on the adjacent surface 28. The recess 24 is spaced apart axially from the upward-facing end face 22a of the protrusion 22. The connecting surface 26 is formed between the recess 24 and the upward-facing end face 22a of the protrusion 22. The connecting surface 26 extends axially toward the inner side in the radial direction. The connecting surface 26 is located radially outward of the inner ring 10, further away from the axial edge of the outer ring raceway surface 23.

[0165] In this embodiment, the same effect as in the first embodiment is achieved. However, in this embodiment, a connecting surface 26 is formed on the adjacent surface 28 of the outer ring 20, between the recess 24 and the end face 22a. The connecting surface 26 is located radially outward in the radial direction than the axial edge of the outer ring raceway surface 23. According to this configuration, when applying the mixture of solid lubricant 60 before curing from the nozzle to a predetermined location, and inserting the end of the nozzle from the outside of the rolling bearing 1F to the inside of the outer ring 20 and the inner ring 10, it is difficult for the connecting surface 26 to contact the nozzle. Therefore, when applying the mixture, it is easy to bring the nozzle close to the recess 24, thus improving the productivity of the small-diameter rolling bearing 1F. Furthermore, the ease of bringing the nozzle close to the recess 24 allows for precise application of the mixture, suppressing contact between the solid lubricant 60 and the rolling elements 30. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the increase in the rotational torque of the rolling bearing 1F.

[0166] [Seventh Implementation] Next, refer to Figure 18 The seventh embodiment will now be described. The shape of the inner circumferential surface 22b of the protrusion 22 of the outer ring 20 of the rolling bearing 1G in the seventh embodiment differs from that of the rolling bearing 1 in the first embodiment. Furthermore, except for the configuration described below, the configuration is the same as that in the first embodiment.

[0167] Figure 18 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the rolling bearing according to the seventh embodiment.

[0168] like Figure 18As shown, a recess 224 and an inclined portion 227 are formed on the adjacent surface 28. The recess 224 is provided without spacing from the upward-facing end face 22a of the protrusion 22 in the axial direction, and opens on both the adjacent surface 28 and the upward-facing end face 22a. The recess 224 includes: an outwardly facing 224a, which faces a direction inclined outward in the axial direction relative to the radial direction (radially inward and upward, or upward); and a cylindrical surface 224c, which faces inward in the radial direction. The outwardly facing 224a is a concave curved surface. The radially inner end edge of the outwardly facing 224a is located radially outward in the radial direction than the axially outer end edge of the outer raceway surface 23. The cylindrical surface 224c extends in the axial direction and connects to the axially outer end edge of the outwardly facing 224a. The inclined portion 227 extends inclinedly toward the outer raceway surface 23 side of the recess 224 (the inner edge in the radial direction toward the outer 224a) with respect to both the radial and axial directions. That is, the inclined portion 227 extends radially and axially inward from the ridge 25 of the adjacent surface 28. In this embodiment, the inclined portion 227 extends linearly from the end edge of the recess 224 in the longitudinal section of the rolling bearing 1G. However, the inclined portion may simply extend at a steeper angle in the radial direction than the recess 224, with the connection between the inclined portion and the recess 224 as the boundary. The inclined portions 227 are spaced apart axially from the outer raceway surface 23.

[0169] The solid lubricant 560 has an outer ring contact portion 561 that contacts the inner circumferential surface 22b of the protrusion 22 of the outer ring 20. The outer ring contact portion 561 contacts the recess 224 of the adjacent surface 28. The outer ring contact portion 561 contacts the recess 224 all around its circumference. The outer ring contact portion 561 contacts the outwardly facing 224a and the cylindrical surface 224c of the recess 224. The outer ring contact portion 561 also contacts at least a portion of the ridge 25 of the adjacent surface 28. Furthermore, ideally, the outer ring contact portion 561 does not contact the inclined portion 227. In addition, the solid lubricant 560 may also contact the sealing member 50.

[0170] In this embodiment, the same effect as in the first embodiment is achieved. However, in this embodiment, the adjacent surface 28 of the outer ring 20 has an inclined portion 227 that extends from the end edge of the recess 224 on the outer ring raceway surface 23 side, inclined relative to both the radial and axial directions towards the outer ring raceway surface 23 side. According to this configuration, even though the end of the recess 224 on the outer ring raceway surface 23 side extends radially, the adjacent surface 28 gradually slopes from the recess 224 towards the outer ring raceway surface 23, thus promoting the flow of the base oil of the grease seeping from the solid lubricant 560 from the recess 224 along the inclined portion 227 towards the outer ring raceway surface 23. Therefore, even if the solid lubricant 560 is not positioned close to the outer ring raceway surface 23, insufficient supply of the grease base oil to the rolling element 30 can be suppressed.

[0171] In addition, such as Figure 19 As shown, the solid lubricant 560A can also be arranged such that it does not protrude radially from the inside of the recess 224 toward the inclined portion 227 (inner side). That is, the solid lubricant 560A can also be arranged such that it is not located within the forming range of the inclined portion 227 in the radial direction. With this configuration, contact between the solid lubricant 560A and the rolling element 30 can be suppressed. On the other hand, by reducing the amount of solid lubricant 560A, it is possible to appropriately obtain the effect of suppressing insufficient supply of the grease base oil to the rolling element 30, as described above.

[0172] Furthermore, in the seventh embodiment, the recess 224 is provided at equal intervals along the axial direction relative to the upward-facing end face 22a of the protrusion 22, but this configuration is not limited to this. That is, as... Figure 20 As shown, the recesses 224A may also be provided spaced apart in the axial direction relative to the upward-facing end face 22a. Furthermore, in the illustrated example, the recesses 224A have: an outwardly facing 224Aa, which is inclined outward relative to the radial direction towards the axial direction; and an inwardly facing 224Ab, which is inclined inward relative to the radial direction towards the axial direction. However, the shape of the recesses is not particularly limited.

[0173] [Eighth Implementation] Next, refer to Figure 21 The eighth embodiment will now be described. The rolling bearing 1H of the eighth embodiment differs from the rolling bearing 1 of the first embodiment in that it has a solid lubricant 660 disposed in the retainer 40. Furthermore, its configuration, except for the configuration described below, is the same as that of the first embodiment.

[0174] Figure 21 This is a cross-sectional view showing the retainer according to the eighth embodiment.

[0175] like Figure 21As shown, solid lubricant 660 is disposed in the annular space between the inner ring 10 and the outer ring 20. Solid lubricant 660 is disposed between a pair of sealing members 50. Solid lubricant 660 is disposed only on the base 41 side of the retainer 40 relative to the rolling element 30. That is, solid lubricant 660 is disposed only below the rolling element 30. Solid lubricant 660 is disposed in the recess 48 of the lower end face 40l of the retainer 40. Solid lubricant 660 contacts the bottom surface 48a of the recess 48. One drop of solid lubricant 660 is applied to each of the bottom surfaces 48a of the recess 48. Solid lubricant 660 is evenly arranged in the circumferential direction. However, multiple drops of solid lubricant may also be applied to each of the bottom surfaces 48a of the recess 48, or applied in an arc-shaped extension manner. In addition, solid lubricant may also contact the side surface 48b of the recess 48. Furthermore, the solid lubricant can also contact the opening edge of the recess 48. Additionally, in this embodiment, the rolling bearing 1H may not have a solid lubricant that contacts the recess 24 formed on the outer ring 20. In this case, the recess 24 may not be formed on the outer ring 20.

[0176] In this embodiment, the solid lubricant 660 contacts the recess 48 formed in the retainer 40. With this configuration, the solid lubricant 660 is disposed in the retainer 40, so the base oil of the grease seeping from the solid lubricant 660 can be supplied to the sliding parts such as the rolling elements 30, thereby reducing the rotational torque of the rolling bearing 1H. Furthermore, since the solid lubricant 660 contacts the recess 48, the solid lubricant 660 is engaged in the recess 48, making it difficult for the rolling bearing 1H to deviate from its position during use. Thus, contact between the solid lubricant 660 and the rolling elements 30, outer ring 20, inner ring 10, sealing member 50, etc., can be suppressed. Therefore, a rolling bearing 1H that can suppress the increase of rotational torque over a long period can be provided.

[0177] Furthermore, a solid lubricant 660 is disposed in the recess 48, so the solid lubricant 660 is restricted from circumferential displacement by the side 48b of the recess 48. This prevents the solid lubricant 660 from shifting position relative to the retainer 40 in the circumferential direction and contacting the rolling elements 30 when the retainer 40 rotates. Therefore, a rolling bearing 1H that can suppress the increase of rotational torque over a long period can be provided.

[0178] Furthermore, by bringing the solid lubricant 660 into contact with the opening edge of the recess 48, the solid lubricant 660 can be locked in place within the retainer 40. This makes it more difficult for the solid lubricant 660 to deviate from its position.

[0179] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the method for forming the solid lubricant 660 is not particularly limited. The solid lubricant 660 can be formed by placing a semi-solid mixture of grease and resin material particles in the retainer 40 and then heating and cooling it together with the rolling bearing, or by placing a pre-cured solid lubricant 660 in the retainer 40.

[0180] [Ninth Implementation] Next, refer to Figure 22 The ninth embodiment will now be described. The position of the rolling bearing 1I in the retainer 40 relative to the solid lubricant 760 differs from that of the rolling bearing 1H in the eighth embodiment. Furthermore, except for the configuration described below, the configuration is the same as that in the eighth embodiment.

[0181] Figure 22 This is a cross-sectional view showing the retainer according to the 9th embodiment.

[0182] like Figure 22 As shown, solid lubricant 760 is disposed in the upper recess 47 of the upper end face 40u of the retainer 40. Solid lubricant 760 contacts the bottom surface of the upper recess 47. One drop of solid lubricant 760 is applied to each of the bottom surfaces of the upper recess 47. The solid lubricant 760 is evenly arranged in the circumferential direction. However, multiple drops of solid lubricant can also be applied to each of the bottom surfaces of the upper recess 47, or applied in an arc-shaped extension manner. Additionally, the solid lubricant can also contact the side surface of the upper recess 47. Furthermore, the solid lubricant can also contact the opening edge of the upper recess 47.

[0183] The retainer 40 has a protrusion 49 protruding from the bottom surface of the upper recess 47. The protrusion 49 is inserted into the interior of the solid lubricant 760. In this embodiment, the entire protrusion 49 is covered by the solid lubricant 760. The protrusion 49 engages with the solid lubricant 760 in both the radial and circumferential directions.

[0184] In this embodiment, the same effect as in the eighth embodiment is achieved. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the protrusion 49 of the retainer 40 is inserted into the interior of the solid lubricant 760. Thus, the solid lubricant 760 is engaged with the protrusion 49, restricting its displacement in the radial and circumferential directions. Therefore, it is more difficult for the solid lubricant 760 to deviate from its position.

[0185] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, and various variations are conceivable within its technical scope.

[0186] For example, in the above embodiment, the inner ring 10 is provided as a rotating ring, and the outer ring 20 is provided as a fixed ring. Furthermore, the solid lubricant contacts the outer ring 20, which is the fixed ring. However, the raceway ring contacted by the solid lubricant may not be a fixed ring. That is, the inner ring may be provided as a fixed ring, the outer ring as a rotating ring, and the solid lubricant contacts the inner ring, which is the fixed ring. Alternatively, the inner ring may be provided as a fixed ring, the outer ring as a rotating ring, and the solid lubricant contacts the outer ring, which is the rotating ring.

[0187] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the solid lubricant that contacts the recess of the outer ring is disposed only on one side (above) relative to the axial direction of the rolling element, but this configuration is not limited. That is, it is also possible that the recess is formed on both sides in the axial direction relative to the raceway surface of the outer ring, and the solid lubricant is disposed on both sides in the axial direction relative to the rolling element.

[0188] Furthermore, in the embodiments described above, the solid lubricant that contacts the outer ring contacts the recess throughout the entire circumference, but this configuration is not limited to this. The solid lubricant may also contact only a portion of the recess in the circumferential direction.

[0189] Furthermore, while a fan motor was exemplified as a rotating device in the above embodiment, the rotating device is not limited to this. For example, the present invention can also be applied to dental handpieces or hard disk drive spindle motors, which serve as rotating devices.

[0190] In addition, in the above embodiments, the solid lubricant includes grease, but the solid lubricant only needs to be retained by the cured resin material.

[0191] Furthermore, without departing from the spirit of the invention, the constituent elements in the above embodiments can be appropriately replaced with well-known constituent elements. In addition, the above embodiments and their variations can be appropriately combined. For example, in embodiments 2 to 7, a solid lubricant pre-cured into a predetermined shape can be embedded into the outer ring 20, following a variation of embodiment 1.

[0192] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures 1, 1A, 1C, 1D, 1E, 1F, 1G, 1H, 1I… Bearings 2… Rotating equipment 10…Inner Circle 20…outer ring 22…prominent part 22a…end face 22b…Inner circumferential surface (circumferential surface) 23…Outer ring raceway surface (raceway surface) 24, 24A, 24B, 24C, 24D, 24E, 124E, 224A, 224E...concave 25…edge 26…Connecting Surface 28…adjacent surfaces 30…rolling body 40… Holder 49…protrusion 50… Sealing components 60, 160, 260, 260A, 360, 360A, 360B, 460, 460A, 460B, 560, 560A, 660, 760… solid lubricants 70… mixture 227… Inclined section.

Claims

1. A rolling bearing comprising: The inner and outer rings are arranged coaxially with each other; A rolling element disposed between the inner ring and the outer ring; An annular retainer, disposed between the inner and outer rings, holds the rolling element in a rollable manner; and A solid lubricant, disposed between the inner and outer rings, retains the lubricant through a cured resin material. One of the raceways in the inner ring and the outer ring has a circumferential surface opposite to the other raceway. On the circumferential surface, the following are formed: The raceway surface supports the rolling element in a rollable manner; and The adjacent surface extends outward from the end edge of the raceway surface in the axial direction. The solid lubricant contacts a recess formed in one of the adjacent surfaces and the retainer.

2. The rolling bearing according to claim 1, wherein, The recess is formed on the adjacent surface.

3. The rolling bearing according to claim 2, wherein, The solid lubricant contacts the portion of the recess that is inclined outward relative to the radial direction toward the axial direction.

4. The rolling bearing according to claim 2 or claim 3, wherein, The recess has a portion that is inclined inward toward the axial direction relative to the radial direction.

5. The rolling bearing according to claim 2 or claim 3, It also includes a sealing component, which is fitted onto the inner ring or the outer ring to cover the space between the inner ring and the outer ring from the outside in the axial direction. The solid lubricant contacts the sealing component from the inside in the axial direction.

6. The rolling bearing according to claim 2 or claim 3, wherein, The recesses are spaced apart relative to the raceway surface along the axial direction.

7. The rolling bearing according to claim 2 or claim 3, It also includes a sealing component, which is fitted onto the inner ring or the outer ring to cover the space between the inner ring and the outer ring from the outside in the axial direction. One raceway ring has a protrusion that projects toward the other raceway ring and forms the circumferential surface. The protrusion has an end face that faces outward in the axial direction and connects to the circumferential surface at its periphery on the other raceway side. The recesses are spaced apart relative to the end face along the axial direction.

8. The rolling bearing according to claim 2 or claim 3, wherein, The recess extends continuously and uniformly throughout the circumferential direction.

9. The rolling bearing according to claim 2 or claim 3, wherein, The solid lubricant contacts the edge of the raceway surface formed in the recess.

10. The rolling bearing according to claim 2 or claim 3, wherein, One raceway ring has a protrusion that projects toward the other raceway ring and forms the circumferential surface. The protrusion has an end face that faces outward in the axial direction and connects to the circumferential surface at its periphery on the other raceway side. The peripheral surface has a connecting surface formed between the recess and the end face. The connecting surface is further away from the other raceway in the radial direction than the end edge of the raceway surface in the axial direction.

11. The rolling bearing according to claim 2 or claim 3, wherein, The circumferential surface has an inclined portion that extends obliquely from the end edge of the recess on the raceway surface side toward the raceway surface side relative to the radial direction and the axial direction.

12. The rolling bearing according to claim 11, wherein, The solid lubricant is configured such that it does not protrude from the inside of the recess toward the inclined side in the radial direction.

13. The rolling bearing according to claim 1, wherein, The recess is formed in the retainer.

14. The rolling bearing according to claim 13, wherein, The retainer has a protrusion that inserts into the interior of the solid lubricant.

15. A rotating device comprising: A rotating body configured in a rotatable manner; A support body that supports the rotating body in a rotatable manner; and The rolling bearing as claimed in claim 1, which is located between the rotating body and the supporting body.

16. A method for manufacturing a rolling bearing, comprising the following method: The rolling bearing comprises: The inner and outer rings are arranged coaxially with each other; A rolling element disposed between the inner ring and the outer ring; An annular retainer, disposed between the inner and outer rings, holds the rolling element in a rollable manner; and A solid lubricant is disposed between the inner ring and the outer ring. One of the raceways in the inner ring and the outer ring has a circumferential surface opposite to the other raceway. On the circumferential surface, the following are formed: The raceway surface supports the rolling element in a rollable manner; and The adjacent surface extends outward from the end edge of the raceway surface in the axial direction. The solid lubricant is formed by heating a mixture of resin material and lubricating oil to above the gelation temperature of the resin material and then cooling and solidifying it. The solid lubricant is brought into contact with the recess formed on the adjacent surface or the retainer.

17. The method for manufacturing a rolling bearing according to claim 16, wherein, The mixture is heated to above the gelation temperature while in contact with the recess, and then cooled and solidified.

18. The method for manufacturing a rolling bearing according to claim 16, wherein, The recess is formed on the adjacent surface to embed the pre-cured solid lubricant into one of the raceway rings.

Images