Bearing system including a ground brush assembly and associated assembly method

Abstract

Bearing system including a grounding brush assembly and associated method of assembly. The bearing system (10) includes a bearing (12) provided with an inner ring (16) and an outer ring (18) and a grounding brush assembly (14) including a brush (30) axially offset outwardly relative to the inner ring (16) of the bearing (12) and provided with a plurality of electrically conductive fibers (31) and a support (32), the electrically conductive fibers (31) being mounted inside the support. The grounding brush assembly (14) further includes a brush mounting plate (40) fixed to the support (32) of the brush (30) and including a mounting portion (46) partially configured inside a slot (24) formed in a bore (18b) in the outer ring (18) of the bearing (12).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the general field of grounding devices for controlling shaft current generated in electric motors or electrical machines, and particularly to grounding brush assemblies. Background Technology

[0002] In an electric motor or electric motor, at least one rolling bearing is installed between the housing of the electric motor or electric motor and the rotating shaft to support the shaft.

[0003] During operation, as the shaft rotates, a potential difference may occur between the shaft and the housing of the electric motor or electric motor, which generates a current between the inner ring (fixed to the shaft) and the outer ring (fixed to the housing) of the rolling bearing.

[0004] As current flows through the components of a rolling bearing, it can damage these components, particularly the rolling elements and the rolling tracks formed on the inner and outer rings. Discharge can also generate vibrations.

[0005] To overcome these drawbacks, it is known to ground the rotating shaft by using a grounding brush comprising conductive fibers. The grounding brush is typically mounted in a hole in the mount of the electric motor, such that the free ends of the fibers are in radial contact with the outer surface of the rotating shaft.

[0006] Due to the conductivity of the fibers, the brush and the motor housing are maintained at the same potential. The inner and outer rings of the rolling bearing are also at the same potential, which reduces or eliminates problematic discharges through the rolling bearing.

[0007] Document US-A1-2021 / 0021180 discloses a grounding brush assembly, which includes a grounding brush, the grounding brush being provided with a plurality of conductive fibers, a support member in which the conductive fibers are mounted, and an annular mounting plate, the annular mounting plate including a plurality of tabs for radially and axially retaining the support member, and an annular outer flange surrounding the brush and the tabs in the radial direction.

[0008] Alternatively, the outer surface of the outer ring of the rolling bearing can be equipped with a grounding brush assembly.

[0009] However, using this solution may make it difficult to install the component between the motor mount and the rotating shaft.

[0010] The purpose of this invention is to overcome this drawback. Summary of the Invention

[0011] The present invention relates to a bearing system comprising bearings having a first and a second ring capable of rotating relative to each other.

[0012] The system also includes a grounding brush assembly comprising a brush offset axially outward relative to the inner ring of the bearing and provided with multiple conductive fibers and a support, the conductive fibers being mounted inside the support. Preferably, the conductive fibers protrude radially inward relative to the support.

[0013] The grounding brush assembly further includes a brush mounting plate fixed to a support member of the brush. The mounting plate includes a mounting portion partially disposed within a groove formed in a bore in the outer ring of the bearing. The groove has axially opposed first and second sidewalls, a base engaging the first and second sidewalls, and an inner edge extending between the second sidewall and the front surface of the outer ring.

[0014] According to a general feature, the mounting portion of the mounting plate includes a radial portion that presses against a first sidewall of the groove in the axial direction, and at least one first centring portion that continues the radial portion outward in the axial direction and is surrounded in the radial direction by the inner edge of the groove.

[0015] According to another general feature, the mounting portion of the mounting plate includes at least one first flange that extends radially outward from the first centering portion and presses against the front side of the outer ring in the axial direction.

[0016] According to another general feature, the first centering portion is provided with at least one protrusion that projects in the direction of the base of the groove and extends radially beyond the inner edge of the groove to retain the mounting plate axially relative to the outer ring.

[0017] Because the mounting portion of the mounting plate is fixed in a slot within the bore of the bearing, this design facilitates the installation of the system inside the housing of the associated electric motor.

[0018] The protrusion of the first centering portion of the mounting plate is positioned relative to the outer ring of the bearing in a simple and economical manner.

[0019] Preferably, the radial portion of the mounting portion of the mounting plate is annular. Alternatively, the radial portion may have openings at points on its circumference. In another variation, the radial portion may include a plurality of sectors spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction.

[0020] According to a particular design, the mounting portion of the mounting plate includes a plurality of first centering portions spaced apart from each other in a circumferential direction and a plurality of first flanges, the plurality of first flanges pressing axially against the front surface of the outer ring, and each of the plurality of first flanges extending radially outward from one of the first centering portions. Each first centering portion is provided with at least one protrusion that projects in a direction toward the base of the groove and extends radially beyond the inner edge of the groove.

[0021] The mounting portion of the mounting plate may further include at least one second centering portion and at least one second flange, the at least one second centering portion being circumferentially spaced from or around the first centering portion, the second centering portion extending axially outward from the radial portion and being radially surrounded by the inner edge of the groove, the at least one second flange extending radially outward from the second centering portion and pressing against the front surface of the outer ring in the axial direction, the second centering portion having a smooth outer surface.

[0022] The mounting portion of the mounting plate may include a plurality of second centering portions spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction and a plurality of second flanges, the plurality of second flanges pressing axially against the front face of the outer ring, and each of the plurality of second flanges extending radially outward from one of the second centering portions, each second centering portion having a smooth outer surface.

[0023] According to another specific design, the first centering portion of the mounting portion of the mounting plate is annular.

[0024] In this case, the protrusion of the first centering portion may be annular or may have a discontinuous shape in the circumferential direction.

[0025] Preferably, the mounting plate is manufactured as a single piece.

[0026] The present invention also relates to an electric motor comprising a housing, a shaft, and at least one bearing system as defined above, the at least one bearing system being radially mounted between the housing and the shaft.

[0027] The present invention also relates to a method for assembling a bearing system as defined above, the method comprising the following steps:

[0028] - Before mounting the grounding brush assembly onto the bearing, the first flange of the mounting portion of the mounting plate is axially bent (or folded) on the opposite side of the brush.

[0029] - The step of axially displacing the grounding brush assembly relative to the bearing so that the free end of the bent first flange axially presses against the front surface of the outer ring of the bearing and the radial portion axially presses against the first sidewall of the groove, then

[0030] - A step of pushing axially against the bent first flange and the radial portion of the mounting portion of the mounting plate to flatten the front surface of the first flange against the outer ring of the bearing, while forming the protrusion. Attached Figure Description

[0031] The invention will be more clearly understood by studying the detailed description of exemplary embodiments carried out by way of entirely non-limiting example and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0032] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a bearing system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A front view of the bearing system.

[0034] Figure 3 It is along Figure 2 A partial cross-sectional view of axis III-III.

[0035] Figure 4 It is along Figure 2 A partial cross-sectional view of axis IV-IV.

[0036] Figure 5 It is along Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of axis VV.

[0037] Figure 6 yes Figure 3 Detailed images,

[0038] Figure 7 and Figure 8 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the grounding brush assembly of the bearing system before it is assembled with the bearing of the system.

[0039] Figure 9 It is along when the bearing system has been assembled Figure 2 A partial cross-sectional view of axis III-III.

[0040] Figure 10 It is along when the bearing system has been assembled Figure 2 A partial cross-sectional view of axis IV-IV.

[0041] Figure 11 It is shown schematically. Figure 1 A partial cross-sectional view of the bearing system installed inside the housing of the electric motor.

[0042] Figure 12 and Figure 13 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a bearing system according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention along two different cross-sectional planes.

[0043] Figure 14 It is along Figure 13 A cross-sectional view of axis XIV-XIV.

[0044] Figure 15 and Figure 16 yes Figure 12 and Figure 13 A perspective view of the grounding brush assembly of the bearing system before it is assembled with the bearing of the system, and

[0045] Figure 17 and Figure 18 Is when Figure 12 and Figure 13 The bearing system is a partial cross-sectional view along two different cross-sectional planes when it is assembled. Detailed Implementation

[0046] Figures 1 to 4 The bearing system shown and generally marked as 10 is designed to be mounted radially between the seat of an electric motor or electric machine and the rotating shaft.

[0047] The bearing system 10 includes a bearing 12 and a grounding brush assembly 14 mounted on the bearing 12.

[0048] Bearing 12 is provided with an inner ring 16 and a second outer ring 18 that are rotatable relative to each other about an axis (not shown) of bearing 12. The inner ring 16 and the outer ring 18 of bearing 12 are concentric and extend axially along the axis of bearing 12. The inner ring 16 and the outer ring 18 are made of steel. The rings are solid.

[0049] In the exemplary embodiment shown, the bearing 12 further includes a row of rolling elements 20 (here, balls) radially positioned between the inner ring 16 and the outer ring 18. The bearing 12 also includes a cage 22 for maintaining a regular circumferential spacing of the rolling elements 20.

[0050] The inner ring 16 includes a cylindrical bore 16a, a cylindrical axial outer surface 16b radially opposite to the bore 16a, and a first front face 16c and a second front face 16d radially opposite to the bore 16a and outer surface 16b in the axial direction. The bore 16a and outer surface 16b define the radial thickness of the inner ring 16. The front faces 16c and 16d define the axial length of the inner ring 16.

[0051] The outer ring 18 includes a cylindrical axial outer surface 18a, a cylindrical hole 18b radially opposite to the outer surface 18a, and a first face 18c and a second face 18d radially opposite to the hole 18b and the outer surface 18a, which define the outer ring 18 in the axial direction. The outer surface 18a and the hole 18b define the radial thickness of the outer ring 18. Faces 18c and 18d define the axial length of the outer ring 18.

[0052] The outer ring 18 also includes a first annular groove 24 and a second annular groove 26 formed on the hole 18b and extending radially outward. Each groove 24, 26 is radially oriented on one side of the inner ring 16.

[0053] Grooves 24 and 26 are axially arranged on either side of the row of rolling elements 20. Groove 24 is axially located near the front face 18c of the outer ring 18, and groove 26 is axially located near the front face 18d. Grooves 24 and 26 are symmetrical with respect to the radial midplane of the bearing system. Alternatively, the outer ring 18 may consist only of groove 24.

[0054] As will be described in more detail below, the grounding brush assembly 14 is fixed in a groove 24 of the outer ring 18 of the bearing 12. Assembly 14 has an overall annular shape. Assembly 14 includes a grounding brush 30 and a brush mounting plate 40 configured to radially center the brush 30. The mounting plate 40 is fixed in the groove 24 of the outer ring 18 of the bearing 12.

[0055] The brush 30 is axially offset outward relative to the inner ring 16 of the bearing 12. In other words, the brush 30 is axially spaced from the inner ring 16 of the bearing 12. The brush 30 is positioned on the outer side of the bearing 12.

[0056] The brush 30 includes multiple individual conductive fibers 31 designed to surround the rotating shaft of the motor. The conductive fibers 31 can be made of carbon, stainless steel, or conductive plastics such as acrylic fibers or nylon. The conductive fibers 31 in... Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 The diagram is used to represent this.

[0057] Furthermore, the brush 30 includes a retaining member or support 32, with conductive fibers 31 mounted inside the retaining member or support 32. The conductive fibers 31 protrude radially inward relative to the support 32.

[0058] In the exemplary embodiment shown, the support 32 is in the form of an open ring. The support 32 is made of a rigid material. The support 32 can be manufactured by cutting and swaging. The support 32 is made of a conductive material (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel, bronze, copper, or other materials). Alternatively, the support 32 can be made of a non-conductive material with a conductive coating or paint.

[0059] The brush 30 preferably also includes a ring 33, around which conductive fibers 31 are disposed inside the support member 32. The ring 33 serves to support the conductive fibers 31. The ring 33 is installed inside the support member 32.

[0060] The support member 32 of the brush 30 includes an axial mounting portion 34 and two opposing lateral flanks 36, 38, which extend inward from the mounting portion 34 and axially clamp the conductive fiber 31. The conductive fiber 31 presses against the lateral flanks 36, 38 on both sides in the axial direction. The conductive fiber 31 presses against the mounting portion 34 in the radial direction. The conductive fiber 31 protrudes radially inward relative to the lateral flanks 36, 38 of the support member 32.

[0061] Mounting portion 34 and two lateral sides 36, 38 define a channel that opens radially inward, and conductive fiber 31 is partially located inside the channel.

[0062] Lateral side 36 extends from one end of mounting portion 34, and lateral side 38 extends from the opposite end of mounting portion 34. Lateral sides 36 and 38 extend inwardly at an angle from mounting portion 34. Lateral sides 36 and 38 are symmetrical with respect to the radial midplane of support member 32. Alternatively, a single lateral side of lateral sides 36 and 38 may extend inwardly at an angle. In another variation, both lateral sides 36 and 38 may extend radially. Here, mounting portion 34 extends axially. Alternatively, mounting portion 34 may extend at an angle.

[0063] Brush 30 is in the form of an open ring. This allows brush 30 to accommodate various diameters of the motor shaft. Generally, the ends of brush 30 are not fixed to each other. However, as a variation, these ends of brush 30 can be fixed to each other.

[0064] The conductive fiber 31 has a distal free end, which is intended to make radial contact with the outer surface of the rotating shaft of the motor. The free end of the conductive fiber 31 defines the inner diameter of the conductive fiber 31, and more generally defines the inner diameter of the brush 30.

[0065] In the exemplary embodiment shown, the free end of the conductive fiber 31 is radially offset inward relative to the bore 16a of the inner ring 16 of the bearing 12. In other words, the free end of the conductive fiber 31 protrudes radially relative to the bore 16a of the inner ring 16. Alternatively, the free end of the conductive fiber 31 may be radially flush with the bore 16a. In another alternative, if the bearing system also includes a sleeve mounted in the bore 16a of the inner ring 16, the free end of the conductive fiber 31 may be radially set back relative to the bore 16a.

[0066] The mounting plate 40 of the grounding brush assembly 14 includes an annular radial portion 42 and a plurality of tabs 44 for axial and radial retention of the brush 30, the plurality of tabs 44 extending from the radial portion 42.

[0067] Mounting plate 40 also includes mounting portion 46 and connecting portion 48, mounting portion 46 being partially disposed in groove 24 of outer ring 18 of bearing 12, and connecting portion 48 engaging mounting portion 46 to radial portion 42.

[0068] The radial portion 42 of the mounting plate 40 presses against the support 32 of the brush 30 in the axial direction. More specifically, the radial portion 42 presses against the lateral side 36 of the support 32 in the axial direction. The radial portion 42 is offset outward in the axial direction relative to the inner ring 16 of the bearing. The radial portion 42 is maintained at a distance in the axial direction from the front face 16c of the inner ring 16. The support 32 of the brush 30 presses against the radial portion 42 in the axial direction on the opposite side of the inner ring 16. Alternatively, depending on the design of the mounting plate 40, the support 32 of the brush 30 may press against the radial portion 42 in the axial direction on one side of the inner ring 16. In this case, the support 32 is axially positioned between the radial portion 42 of the mounting plate 40 and the face 16c of the inner ring 16, while remaining axially spaced from the face 16c.

[0069] The tabs 44 of the mounting plate are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction, specifically, they are regularly (or equally) spaced apart. Alternatively, irregular circumferential spacing may be provided. In the exemplary embodiment shown, there are six tabs 44. Alternatively, more or fewer tabs 44 may be provided. Two tabs 44 or at least four tabs may be provided. Preferably, the number of tabs 44 is at least two.

[0070] Each tab 44 protrudes axially relative to the radial portion 42. Each tab 44 partially surrounds the support 32 of the brush 30 radially and is in radial contact with the mounting portion 34 of the support 32. The tab 44 holds the support 32 axially against the radial portion 42 of the mounting plate 40. The tab 44 allows the grounding brush 30 to be held axially and radially. The lateral side 36 of the support 32 presses against the radial portion 42 of the mounting plate 40, and the lateral side 38 presses against the tab 44. Here, the tabs 44 are identical to each other.

[0071] Each tab 44 has an axial portion and a radially inwardly bent portion. The axial portion extends axially from the radial portion 42, partially surrounds the support 32 radially, and radially contacts the support 32. The radially inwardly bent portion is located at the free end of the axial portion. The folded portion of each tab 44 allows the support 32 of the grounding brush 30 to be held axially. The folded portion of each tab 44 is in axial contact with the lateral side 38 of the support 32.

[0072] The connecting portion 48 of the mounting plate is annular and extends axially. The connecting portion 48 extends axially between the large-diameter edge of the radial portion 42 and the small-diameter edge of the mounting portion 46. The mounting portion 46 is radially offset outward relative to the tab 44 and axially offset toward the inside of the bearing 12 relative to the tab 44.

[0073] like Figures 3 to 8 As shown more clearly in the diagram, the mounting portion 46 of the mounting plate includes an annular radial portion 49 that projects radially outward from the connecting portion 48 of the mounting plate. The radial portion 49 is disposed in a groove 24 of the outer ring of the bearing.

[0074] The groove 24 is provided with a first sidewall 24a or sidewall and a second sidewall 24b or sidewall that are axially opposed. The first sidewall 24a and the second sidewall 24b are joined by a base 24c oriented radially inward. Here, the base 24c is concave. Alternatively, the base 24c may have other profiles, such as a flat profile. In another variation, the groove 24 may not have a base 24c. In this case, the sidewalls 24a and 24b are joined to each other.

[0075] The groove 24 also has an inner edge 24d that extends from the small-diameter end of the second sidewall 24b and connects to the front surface 18c of the outer ring. The edge 24d extends between the second sidewall 24b and the front surface 18c, engaging both. The edge 24d is radially offset inward relative to the base 24c. The groove 24 has a stepped shape. The second sidewall 24b has a smaller radial dimension than the first sidewall 24a.

[0076] The radial portion 49 of the mounting portion 46 of the mounting plate protrudes radially outward from the edge of the connecting portion 48 of the mounting plate that is axially opposite to the radial portion 42. The radial portion 49 is flat. The radial portion 49 presses axially against the first sidewall 24a of the groove of the outer ring of the bearing. There is no axial contact between the radial portion 49 and the second sidewall 24b of the groove. In other words, the radial portion 49 maintains a certain distance from the second sidewall 24b of the groove. The radial portion 49 presses axially against most of the first sidewall 24a of the groove.

[0077] The mounting portion 46 of the mounting plate includes a set of first centering portions 50 and a set of second centering portions 52 extending axially outward from the radial portion 49. The first centering portions 50 and 52 extend axially from the large-diameter edge of the radial portion 49. The first centering portions 50 and 52 extend axially on one side of the first sidewall 24a of the groove in the outer ring. The first centering portions 50 and 52 are located in a hole defined by the edge 24d of the groove. The first centering portions 50 and 52 are radially surrounded by the edge 24d of the groove. The first centering portions 50 and 52 together define a circle that is discontinuous in the circumferential direction and, in the free state when the assembly 14 is not mounted on the bearing 12, its outer diameter is smaller than the inner diameter of the inner edge 24d of the groove. The first centering portions 50 and 52 are in the form of lugs.

[0078] The first centering portions 50 are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction, specifically, the first centering portions 50 are regularly spaced apart in the circumferential direction. Alternatively, the first centering portions 50 may be provided with irregular circumferential spacing. In the exemplary embodiment shown, there are 12 first centering portions 50. Alternatively, more or fewer first centering portions 50 may be provided. A single first centering portion 50 or at least two or four first centering portions 50 may be provided. Preferably, the number of first centering portions 50 is at least two.

[0079] Similarly, the second centering portions 52 are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction, and here, the second centering portions 52 are regularly spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction. Alternatively, the second centering portions 52 can be provided with irregular circumferential spacing. In the exemplary embodiment shown, there are 12 second centering portions 52. Alternatively, more or fewer second centering portions 52 can be provided. A single second centering portion 52 or at least two or four second centering portions 52 can be provided. Preferably, the number of second centering portions 52 is at least two.

[0080] In the exemplary embodiment shown, each second centering portion 52 is located circumferentially between two consecutive first centering portions 50. Alternatively, different relative configurations of the first centering portions 50 and the second centering portions 52 may be provided.

[0081] The first centering portions 50 are identical to each other. The second centering portions 52 are identical to each other. The axial dimension of the first centering portion 50 is equal to the axial dimension of the second centering portion 52. The circumferential dimension of the first centering portion 50 is smaller than the circumferential dimension of the second centering portion 52. Alternatively, the circumferential dimension of the first centering portion 50 may be equal to or greater than the circumferential dimension of the second centering portion 52. In another variation, the first centering portions 50 may have different circumferential dimensions from each other. Alternatively, the second centering portions 52 may also have different circumferential dimensions from each other.

[0082] The mounting portion 46 of the mounting plate also includes a set of first flanges 54 and a set of second flanges 56 that extend radially outward from the first centering portion 50 and the second centering portion 52, respectively.

[0083] Each first flange 54 extends the axially opposite end of the associated first centering portion 50 to the radial portion 49. The circumferential dimension of each first flange 54 is equal to the circumferential dimension of the associated first centering portion 50. Each first flange 54 presses axially against the front face 18c of the outer ring. Each first flange 54 remains radially recessed relative to the outer surface 18a of the outer ring.

[0084] Similarly, each second flange 56 extends the axially opposite end of the associated second centering portion 52 to the radial portion 49. The circumferential dimension of each second flange 56 is equal to the circumferential dimension of the associated second centering portion 52. Each second flange 56 presses axially against the front surface 18c of the outer ring. Each second flange 56 remains radially recessed relative to the outer surface 18a of the outer ring.

[0085] Each first centering portion 50 of the mounting portion 46 of the mounting plate is provided with a protrusion 58 projecting outward in the direction of the base 24c of the groove. The protrusion 58 of each first centering portion 50 projects radially. Each protrusion 58 is formed over a portion of the length of the associated centering portion 50. Each protrusion 58 is formed over the entire circumferential dimension of the associated centering portion 50. The protrusion 58 of each first centering portion 50 connects to the radial portion 49 of the mounting portion of the mounting plate. The protrusions 58 are identical to each other.

[0086] Each first centering portion 50 has a constant thickness and is contained within the region of the associated protrusion 58. As will be described in more detail below, each protrusion 58 is obtained by localized material deformation of the associated first centering portion 50.

[0087] Each protrusion 58 presses against the second sidewall 24b in the axial direction. Each protrusion 58 extends radially beyond the inner edge 24d of the groove. In other words, each protrusion 58 projects radially toward the base 24c of the groove relative to the inner edge 24d of the groove.

[0088] Each protrusion 58 axially holds the mounting plate 40 relative to the outer ring 18. The axial holding of the mounting plate 40 relative to the outer ring 18 is ensured by radial interference between the protrusion 58 and the second sidewall 24b of the groove. The protrusion 58 forms a collar that is discontinuous in the circumferential direction, and the outer diameter of the collar is larger than the inner diameter of the inner edge 24d of the groove.

[0089] Each first centering portion 50 of the mounting portion 46 of the mounting plate includes a smooth outer surface. A "smooth outer surface" means that the outer surface of each first centering portion 50 has no protrusions or protrusions.

[0090] A plurality of through openings 60 are formed in the thickness of the radial portion 42 and the connecting portion 48 of the mounting plate 40. The openings 60 are formed during partial cutting of the mounting plate 40 to form tabs 44. The tabs 44 are formed by cutting, bending, and crimping the mounting plate 40. The openings 60 are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction. Each tab 44 is aligned with its associated opening 60 in the circumferential direction. The number of openings 60 corresponds to the number of tabs 44. Figure 8 As can be seen, the root of each tab 44 extends from the inner edge of the associated opening 60 located on the radial portion 42.

[0091] Mounting plate 40 is manufactured by cutting and forging. Mounting plate 40 is made of a conductive material (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel, bronze, copper, or other materials). Alternatively, mounting plate 40 can be made of a non-conductive material with a conductive coating or paint. Here, mounting plate 40 is manufactured as a single piece.

[0092] The following steps are performed to assemble the bearing system 10.

[0093] In the first step, after or during the manufacture of the grounding brush assembly 14 and before mounting the grounding brush assembly 14 onto the bearing 12, the flange 54 of the mounting portion of the mounting plate is deformed by bending axially on the opposite side of the brush 30, as shown. Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown.

[0094] Subsequently, in the second step, the grounding brush assembly 14 is axially displaced relative to the bearing 12 so that the bent flange 54 and flange 56 axially press against the front surface 18c of the outer ring, and the radial portion 49 of the mounting portion of the mounting plate axially presses against the sidewall 24a of the groove, as shown. Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown. During this relative displacement, the first centering portion 50 and the second centering portion 52 of the mounting plate do not interfere with the inner edge 24d of the groove.

[0095] Finally, in the third and final step, an axial force is applied to the flange 54 and the radial portion 49 of the mounting portion of the mounting plate, causing the flange 54 to flatten against the front surface 18c of the outer ring, while simultaneously forming a protrusion 58. Thus, the protrusion 58 is formed by localized material deformation of the first centering portion 50. The deformed portion of the first centering portion 50 partially fills the groove 24 of the outer ring and forms the protrusion 58. The protrusion 58 is obtained through localized plastic deformation of the first centering portion 50 of the mounting plate.

[0096] like Figure 11 As shown, the brush system 10 can be installed inside the hole of the associated electric motor housing 62 and on the motor's rotating shaft 64. The bearing 12 is radially mounted between the hole of the motor housing 62 and the rotating shaft 64.

[0097] During the operation of the electric motor, the charge accumulated on the shaft 64 is dissipated to the seat 62 through the conductive fiber 31, the support 32 of the brush 30, and the mounting plate 40 of the assembly 14.

[0098] Figures 12 to 16 The exemplary embodiment shown (in which the same elements have the same reference numerals) differs from the foregoing example mainly in that the mounting portion 46 of the mounting plate includes an annular centering portion 70 instead of a first centering portion and a second centering portion.

[0099] The centering portion 70 extends axially outward from the radial portion 49. The centering portion 70 extends axially from the large-diameter edge of the radial portion 49. The centering portion 70 is located within a hole defined by the edge 24d of the groove. The centering portion 70 is radially surrounded by the edge 24d of the groove. In the free state when the assembly 14 is not mounted on the bearing 12, the outer diameter of the centering portion 70 is smaller than the inner diameter of the inner edge 24d of the groove.

[0100] In this example, the mounting portion 46 of the mounting plate also includes an annular flange 72 that extends radially outward from the centering portion 70. The flange 72 extends from the end of the centering portion 70 that is axially opposite to the radial portion 49. The flange 72 presses axially against the front surface 18c of the outer ring. The flange 72 remains radially recessed relative to the outer surface 18a of the outer ring.

[0101] The centering portion 70 is provided with an annular protrusion 74 that protrudes outward in the direction of the base 24c of the groove. The protrusion 74 protrudes radially. The protrusion 74 is connected to the radial portion 49 of the mounting portion of the mounting plate.

[0102] The centering portion 70 has a constant thickness and is included in the region of the protrusion 74. The protrusion 74 is obtained by local material deformation of the centering portion 70.

[0103] The protrusion 74 presses against the second sidewall 24b in the axial direction. The protrusion 74 extends radially beyond the inner edge 24d of the groove. In other words, the protrusion 74 protrudes radially toward the base 24c of the groove relative to the inner edge 24d of the groove.

[0104] The protrusion 74 holds the mounting plate 40 axially relative to the outer ring 18. The axial holding of the mounting plate 40 relative to the outer ring 18 is ensured by radial interference between the protrusion 74 and the second sidewall 24b of the groove. The protrusion 74 forms a collar that is continuous in the circumferential direction, and the outer diameter of the collar is larger than the inner diameter of the inner edge 24d of the groove.

[0105] The following steps are performed to assemble the bearing system 10.

[0106] In the first step, after or during the manufacture of the grounding brush assembly 14 and before mounting the grounding brush assembly 14 onto the bearing 12, the flange 72 of the mounting portion of the mounting plate is deformed by bending axially on the opposite side of the brush 30, as shown. Figure 15 and Figure 16 As shown.

[0107] Subsequently, in the second step, the grounding brush assembly 14 is axially displaced relative to the bearing 12 so that the bent flange 72 axially presses against the front surface 18c of the outer ring, and the radial portion 49 of the mounting portion of the mounting plate axially presses against the sidewall 24a of the groove, as shown. Figure 17 and Figure 18 As shown. During this relative displacement, the centering portion 70 of the mounting plate does not interfere with the inner edge 24d of the groove.

[0108] Finally, in the third and final step, an axial force is applied to the flange 72 and the radial portion 49 of the mounting portion of the mounting plate, causing the flange 72 to flatten against the front surface 18c of the outer ring, while simultaneously forming a protrusion 74. Thus, the protrusion 74 is formed by localized material deformation of the centering portion 70. The deformed portion of the centering portion 70 partially fills the groove 24 of the outer ring and forms the protrusion 74. The protrusion 74 is obtained through localized plastic deformation of the centering portion 70 of the mounting plate.

Claims

1. A bearing system (10) comprising a bearing (12) and a grounding brush assembly (14), the bearing (12) having an inner ring (16) and an outer ring (18) rotatable relative to each other, the grounding brush assembly (14) comprising a brush (30) axially outwardly offset relative to the inner ring (16) of the bearing (12) and having a plurality of conductive fibers (31) and a support (32), the conductive fibers (31) being mounted inside the support (32), characterized in that, The grounding brush assembly (14) further includes a brush mounting plate (40) fixed to a support (32) of the brush (30) and including a mounting portion (46) partially disposed within a groove (24) formed in a hole (18b) of the outer ring (18) of the bearing (12). The groove (24) is provided with a first sidewall (24a) and a second sidewall (24b) opposing each other in the axial direction, a base (24c) engaging the first sidewall and the second sidewall, and an inner edge (24d) extending between the second sidewall (24b) and the front surface (18c) of the outer ring. The mounting portion (46) of the mounting plate includes a first sidewall that presses against the groove in the axial direction. The radial portion (49) of 24a), at least one first centering portion (50; 70) extending axially outward from the radial portion (49) and surrounded radially by the inner edge (24d) of the groove, and at least one first flange (54; 72) extending radially outward from the first centering portion (50; 70) and pressing axially against the front surface (18c) of the outer ring, the first centering portion (50; 70) being provided with at least one protrusion (58; 74) protruding in the direction of the base (24c) of the groove and extending radially beyond the inner edge (24d) of the groove to retain the mounting plate (40) axially relative to the outer ring (18).

2. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The radial portion (49) of the mounting portion of the mounting plate is annular.

3. The system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The mounting portion (46) of the mounting plate includes a plurality of first centering portions (50) spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction and a plurality of first flanges (54), the plurality of first flanges (54) pressing axially against the front surface (18c) of the outer ring, and each of the plurality of first flanges (54) extending radially outward from one of the first centering portions, each first centering portion (50) being provided with at least one protrusion (58), the at least one protrusion (58) projecting in the direction of the base (24c) of the groove and extending radially beyond the inner edge (24d) of the groove.

4. The system according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The mounting portion (46) of the mounting plate further includes at least one second centering portion (52) and at least one second flange (56), the at least one second centering portion (52) being circumferentially spaced from the first centering portion (50) or the first centering portion, the second centering portion (52) extending axially outward from the radial portion (49) and being radially surrounded by the inner edge (24d) of the groove, the at least one second flange (56) extending radially outward from the second centering portion (52) and pressing axially against the front surface (18c) of the outer ring, the second centering portion having a smooth outer surface.

5. The system according to claim 4, characterized in that, The mounting portion (46) of the mounting plate includes a plurality of second centering portions (52) spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction and a plurality of second flanges (56), the plurality of second flanges (56) pressing axially against the front surface (18c) of the outer ring, and each of the plurality of second flanges (56) extending radially outward from one of the second centering portions, each second centering portion having a smooth outer surface.

6. The system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first centering portion (50) of the mounting portion (46) of the mounting plate is annular.

7. The system according to claim 6, characterized in that, The protrusion (58) of the first centering portion is annular.

8. An electric motor comprising a housing (62), a shaft (64), and at least one bearing system (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, the at least one bearing system (10) being radially mounted between the housing (62) and the shaft (64).

9. A method for assembling a bearing system (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, the method comprising the steps of: - The step of bending the first flange (54; 72) of the mounting portion (46) of the mounting plate axially on the opposite side of the brush (30) before mounting the grounding brush assembly (14) onto the bearing. - The steps of axially displacing the grounding brush assembly (14) relative to the bearing (12) such that the free end of the bent first flange (54; 72) presses axially against the front face (18c) of the outer ring of the bearing and the radial portion (49) presses axially against the first sidewall (24a) of the groove, then - A step of pushing the first flange (54; 72) against the bent first flange (54; 72) and the radial portion (49) of the mounting portion (46) of the mounting plate in the axial direction to flatten the first flange (54; 72) against the front face (18c) of the outer ring of the bearing, while forming the protrusion (58; 74).

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