Side-mounted bearing bush temperature sensor

By installing a probe on the side of the bearing bush and measuring the lubricating oil temperature, the problem of temperature deviation in traditional detection methods is solved, achieving more accurate temperature detection and a simplified installation process, thus reducing costs.

CN224189394UActive Publication Date: 2026-05-01TMEAS TECHNOLOGY CO LTD
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
TMEAS TECHNOLOGY CO LTD
Filing Date
2025-04-29
Publication Date
2026-05-01

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

In the existing technology, the traditional method of bearing temperature detection is to determine the temperature by measuring the internal oil temperature of the bearing, which leads to a deviation between the detection result and the actual temperature, affecting the accurate judgment of the bearing's operating status.

Method used

A side-mounted bearing temperature sensor is designed, with the probe installed at the oil inlet on the side of the bearing. By measuring the temperature of the lubricating oil flowing into the bearing from the outside, the sensor avoids temperature interference from oil mixing or heat dissipation, ensuring the accuracy of the measurement data. The sensor is connected to the side of the bearing via a fixing plate to maintain a stable position and working environment.

Benefits of technology

It improves the accuracy of temperature measurement, simplifies the installation process of bearings and sensors, reduces costs, reduces additional burden on the bearing structure, and improves installation efficiency.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The utility model discloses a side-mounted bearing bush temperature sensor, and aims to solve the problem that the accuracy of a temperature detection result is affected due to the fact that the detection result is deviated from the actual temperature in the traditional bearing bush temperature detection. The side-mounted bearing bush temperature sensor comprises a probe and a fixing plate, the probe is connected with the fixing plate, the fixing plate is fixedly connected with the side edge of a bearing bush, an oil inlet is formed in the side edge of the bearing bush, the probe is located in the oil inlet of the bearing bush, and the end face of the probe is arranged on the upstream of the oil inlet. The probe of the sensor is installed on the side face of the bearing bush and arranged at the position of the oil inlet, the probe can directly make contact with oil flowing into the bearing bush from the outer side of the bearing bush along the oil inlet, then temperature interference after oil mixing or heat dissipation is avoided, and measured data are more accurate. The fixed plate is connected with the side edge of the bearing bush, so that the sensor is kept at a stable position and a stable working environment during running of the bearing bush, and the accuracy of temperature measurement data is further improved.
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Description

Side-mounted bearing temperature sensor Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of temperature detection technology, and in particular to a side-mounted bearing temperature sensor. Background Technology

[0002] Generator bearings, as key components for supporting and reducing friction, are crucial for the stable operation of the generator. Bearings are divided into integral and split types, and are typically placed in critical positions such as the outer ring of the rotor main shaft to support the main shaft or counteract radial forces. During normal operation, generator bearings should be within a certain temperature range. However, poor lubrication, uneven load, or material damage can cause the bearing temperature to become excessively high, thus affecting generator performance.

[0003] Typically, bearing shells are housed in an oil tank. Oil enters the bearing shell through an inlet on its side and exits through an outlet. In existing technology, traditional temperature sensors are placed within the oil environment inside the bearing shell to measure the internal oil temperature and determine the current operating temperature. However, during bearing operation, the internal oil temperature does not reflect the actual external operating temperature, affecting the accurate assessment of the bearing's operating status. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide a side-mounted bearing temperature sensor, which aims to solve the problem that the detection results in traditional bearing temperature detection deviate from the actual temperature, affecting the accuracy of the temperature detection results.

[0005] To address the aforementioned issues, this utility model provides a side-mounted bearing temperature sensor, comprising a probe and a fixing plate. The probe is connected to the fixing plate, and the fixing plate is fixedly connected to the side of the bearing. An oil inlet is formed on the side of the bearing, and the probe is located inside the oil inlet of the bearing, with the end face of the probe positioned upstream of the oil inlet.

[0006] Preferably, the probe is detachably connected to the fixing plate, or the probe and the fixing plate are integrally formed.

[0007] Preferably, the probe is arranged perpendicularly to the fixing plate, and the fixing plate is sleeved on the probe.

[0008] Preferably, the fixing plate has a plurality of mounting holes distributed on both sides of the probe, and the fixing plate is fixedly connected to the side of the bearing bush through the plurality of mounting holes.

[0009] Preferably, the probe includes a first part and a second part, the first part and the second part are integrally formed, the diameter of the second part is larger than the diameter of the first part, the fixing plate is sleeved on the first part, and the second part abuts against the fixing plate.

[0010] Preferably, the first part is located upstream of the oil inlet, and the second part is located downstream of the oil inlet.

[0011] Preferably, a fixing groove is formed on the side of the bearing bush, the fixing groove is perpendicular to the oil inlet, and the fixing plate is disposed in the fixing groove.

[0012] Preferably, the probe integrates a temperature sensing element, the temperature sensing element is connected to an optical cable, and the optical cable is connected to an external device.

[0013] Preferably, a first reserved hole is formed on the bearing bush, and the optical cable extends into the bearing bush along the oil inlet and passes through the reserved hole to connect with external equipment.

[0014] Preferably, the bearing bush has a support portion, and a second reserved hole is formed on the support portion, through which the optical cable passes through the second reserved hole and the first reserved hole at one time.

[0015] This configuration, with the sensor probe mounted on the side of the bearing bush and positioned at the oil inlet, allows the probe to directly contact the oil flowing into the bearing bush from the outside along the inlet. This avoids interference from oil mixing or temperature fluctuations due to heat dissipation, resulting in more accurate measurement data. Furthermore, the connection between the mounting plate and the side of the bearing bush ensures a stable position and working environment for the sensor during bearing bush operation, further improving the accuracy of temperature measurement data. The sensor's placement on the side of the bearing bush, along with the oil inlet providing a flow path for the oil within the bush and creating mounting space for the probe, simplifies the bearing bush structure, improves the efficiency of bearing and sensor installation, and saves costs. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 is an exploded view of the structure of the side-mounted bearing temperature sensor provided by this utility model;

[0017] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the side-mounted bearing temperature sensor provided according to the present invention.

[0018] Figure 3 is a side view of the side-mounted bearing temperature sensor provided according to the present invention;

[0019] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the cross-section of AA in Figure 3;

[0020] Figure 5 is an enlarged schematic diagram of part B in Figure 3;

[0021] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the probe, fixing plate, and oil inlet structure on the side of the bearing in the side-mounted bearing temperature sensor provided by this utility model.

[0022] Figure label:

[0023] 1. Probe; 11. First Part; 12. Second Part;

[0024] 2. Fixing plate; 2a. Mounting holes;

[0025] 3. Bearing shell; 3a. Oil inlet; 3b. Fixing groove; 3c. First reserved hole;

[0026] 4. Temperature sensing element;

[0027] 5. Optical fiber cable;

[0028] 6. Support section; 6a. Second reserved hole. Detailed Implementation

[0029] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this utility model clearer, the present utility model will be further described in detail below with reference to specific embodiments and accompanying drawings. It should be understood that these descriptions are merely exemplary and not intended to limit the scope of this utility model. Furthermore, descriptions of well-known structures and technologies are omitted in the following description to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the concept of this utility model.

[0030] The accompanying drawings show schematic diagrams of layer structures according to embodiments of the present invention. These drawings are not to scale, and some details have been enlarged for clarity, and some details may have been omitted. The shapes of the various regions and layers shown in the drawings, as well as their relative sizes and positional relationships, are merely exemplary and may deviate from reality due to manufacturing tolerances or technical limitations. Furthermore, those skilled in the art can design regions / layers with different shapes, sizes, and relative positions as needed.

[0031] In the description of this utility model, it should be noted that the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0032] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, this utility model provides a side-mounted bearing temperature sensor, including a probe 1 and a fixing plate 2. The probe 1 is connected to the fixing plate 2, and the fixing plate 2 is fixedly connected to the side of the bearing 3. An oil inlet 3a is formed on the side of the bearing 3. The probe 1 is located inside the oil inlet 3a of the bearing 3, and the end face of the probe 1 is positioned upstream of the oil inlet 3a. Specifically, a flow channel for lubricating oil needs to be provided in the structure of the bearing 3 to reduce friction between the bearing 3 and other structures. Typically, an oil inlet 3a is provided on the side of the bearing 3, and an oil outlet is provided at other positions of the bearing 3, such as the other side or the front of the bearing 3, to achieve the circulation of lubricating oil. By positioning the end face of the probe 1 upstream of the oil inlet 3a, the lubricating oil flows through the end face of the probe 1 and into the bearing 3 along the oil inlet 3a where the probe 1 is located. The temperature of the lubricating oil at the oil inlet 3a is the temperature of the bearing 3 surface after friction increases during operation. This ensures that the temperature measured at the location of probe 1 is more accurate, which is more conducive to accurately judging the current operating status of bearing 3. At the same time, the probe 1 is fixed in place by connecting to the side of bearing 3 through fixing plate 2. The sensor only needs to be fixed to the side of bearing 3, without adding a complex installation structure inside bearing 3 body, thus preserving the original mechanical strength of bearing 3 to the maximum extent. Probe 1 is located inside oil inlet 3a, without occupying additional oil passage space, which can achieve normal flow of lubricating oil and ensure lubrication efficiency.

[0033] With this setup, the sensor probe 1 is mounted on the side of the bearing bush 3 and positioned at the oil inlet 3a. The probe 1 can directly contact the oil flowing into the bearing bush 3 from the outside along the oil inlet 3a, thus avoiding temperature interference from oil mixing or heat dissipation, resulting in more accurate measurement data. Furthermore, the connection between the fixing plate 2 and the side of the bearing bush 3 ensures a stable position and working environment for the sensor during bearing bush 3 operation, further improving the accuracy of temperature measurement data. The sensor's location on the side of the bearing bush 3 and the oil inlet 3a provide a flow path for the oil within the bearing bush 3, while also creating mounting space for the probe 1. This simplifies the structure of the bearing bush 3, improves the efficiency of bearing bush 3 and sensor installation, and saves costs.

[0034] It should be noted that the specific structure of the oil inlet 3a and the dimensional relationship between the oil inlet 3a and the probe 1 are not limited here. It is sufficient that lubricating oil can flow from the oil inlet 3a into the bearing bush 3, and that the oil inlet 3a can accommodate the probe 1. For example, the inner diameter of the oil inlet 3a can be slightly larger than the diameter of the probe 1 to form an oil passage. The specific positional relationship between the probe 1 and the oil inlet 3a is also not limited; that is, the probe 1 can contact the inner wall of the oil inlet 3a, or it can be fixed at the axial position of the oil inlet 3a by the fixing plate 2, with the probe 1 not contacting the inner wall of the oil inlet 3a at any point. The specific structure of the bearing bush 3 is also not limited here; it is sufficient that an opening is provided on the surface of the bearing bush 3 to allow for the installation of the sensor.

[0035] Referring to Figures 1 to 6, in an optional scenario, the connection between probe 1 and mounting plate 2 can be a detachable fixed connection, such as by screwing, riveting, or welding. This detachable design allows for individual sensor replacement without disassembling the bearing shell 3, avoiding wear on the bearing shell 3's connecting surface due to frequent disassembly and assembly. In another optional scenario, probe 1 and mounting plate 2 are integrally formed. This integral forming eliminates connection gaps, enhances vibration resistance, reduces the additional load on the side fixing points of the bearing shell 3 from the connecting components, and lowers the risk of localized fatigue in the bearing shell 3 and the sensor.

[0036] The specific positional relationship between probe 1 and fixing plate 2 is not limited here. Fixing plate 2 can be installed on one side of oil inlet 3a. When fixing plate 2 is connected to the side of bearing 3, it confines the sensor within oil inlet 3a. In a preferred embodiment, probe 1 and fixing plate 2 are arranged perpendicularly, with fixing plate 2 sleeved on probe 1. That is, probe 1 passes through fixing plate 2, and the two form a cross structure. This arrangement ensures that the axis of probe 1 is parallel to the oil flow direction of oil inlet 3a, reducing resistance to lubricant flow. On the other hand, fixing plate 2 sleeved on probe 1 protects probe 1, preventing probe 1 from directly connecting to the side of bearing 3, ensuring no load transfer between probe 1 and bearing 3, and improving the accuracy of temperature detection and the stability of the overall structure.

[0037] Referring to Figures 1 and 6, in a preferred embodiment, the fixing plate 2 has multiple mounting holes 2a distributed on both sides of the probe 1. The fixing plate 2 is fixedly connected to the side of the bearing bush 3 through these mounting holes 2a. Specifically, the fixing plate 2 and the bearing bush 3 are connected by multiple mounting holes 2a, which disperses the bolt preload on the side of the bearing bush 3 through multiple fixing points, preventing stress concentration at a single point from causing deformation or micro-cracks on the side of the bearing bush 3. The specific number and distribution of the mounting holes 2a are not limited here; the goal is to achieve a fixed connection between the fixing plate 2 and the side of the bearing bush 3, thereby fixing the probe 1 within the oil inlet 3a. In the preferred embodiment, there are an even number of mounting holes 2a, which are symmetrically distributed on both sides of the probe 1, as shown in Figure 6. Two mounting holes 2a are provided on the fixing plate 2, which are symmetrically arranged and located on both sides of the probe 1. This arrangement ensures that the fixing plate 2 is evenly stressed, ensuring the connection strength between the fixing plate 2 and the bearing 3, while avoiding the risk of stress concentration causing side deformation or micro-cracks in the bearing 3.

[0038] The specific structural form of probe 1 is not limited here. It can be a cylindrical structure of uniform size or a structure divided into multiple segments with varying diameters, as long as it can be installed inside the oil inlet 3a. In a preferred embodiment, probe 1 includes a first part 11 and a second part 12, which are integrally formed. The diameter of the second part 12 is larger than the diameter of the first part 11. The fixing plate 2 is fitted onto the first part 11, and the second part 12 abuts against the fixing plate 2. Specifically, as shown in Figure 6, the fixing plate 2 is fitted onto the first part 11, and the diameter of the second part 12 is larger than that of the first part 11. The stepped structure forms a mechanical limit through the diameter difference, ensuring the installation position of the fixing plate 2 and probe 1. With this setting, the stepped structure ensures that the insertion depth of probe 1 is constant, avoiding the probe 1 end face from deviating from the upstream of the oil inlet 3a due to installation errors, thus eliminating the need for repeated adjustments to the bearing 3 installation position.

[0039] The specific positions of the first part and the second part 12 are not limited here; the position of the fixing plate 2 can be determined by the difference in their diameters. In a preferred embodiment, the first part 11 is positioned upstream of the oil inlet 3a, and the second part 12 is positioned downstream of the oil inlet 3a. As shown in Figure 6, which is a partial structural diagram of the sensor and the oil inlet 3a of the bearing 3, the oil flow direction in the figure is from below into the bearing 3. In this case, the first part 11 is positioned below the second part 12, so that the first part 11 is close to the upstream position of the oil inlet. When the lubricating oil flows, it first contacts the first part 11 and then enters the bearing 3 through the second part 12. The diameter of the second part 12 is larger than that of the first part 11. During operation, the second part 12 can prevent the first part 11 from shifting upstream of the oil inlet 3a, avoiding damage to the sensor or bearing 3 caused by the end of the first part 11 exceeding the surface of the bearing 3.

[0040] Referring to Figures 1 to 6, in a preferred embodiment, a fixing groove 3b is formed on the side of the bearing shell 3, perpendicular to the oil inlet 3a, and the fixing plate 2 is disposed within the fixing groove 3b. Specifically, the fixing groove 3b provides fitting space for the fixing plate 2, enabling the installation and positioning of the probe 1. With this configuration, the fixing groove 3b and the side of the bearing shell 3 are integrally machined without the need for additional welding or components, maintaining the overall structural strength of the bearing shell 3. The fixing groove 3b restricts the lateral displacement of the fixing plate 2, improving the stability of the bearing shell 3 under torque loads, which is particularly suitable for high-speed generator operating conditions.

[0041] It should be noted that the specific method of temperature measurement by the sensor is not limited here. As shown in Figures 2 to 4, in a preferred embodiment, the probe 1 integrates a temperature sensing element 4, which is connected to an optical fiber cable 5, which is then connected to an external device. Specifically, the fiber optic temperature sensing element 4 can be directly embedded in the probe 1, and the signal is transmitted through the optical fiber cable 5 to achieve temperature measurement. With this configuration, using the fiber optic temperature sensing element 4 can reduce the size and weight of the probe 1, thereby reducing the load on the side fixing point of the bearing bush 3 and reducing the eccentric wear of the bearing bush 3 caused by the added weight. The specific routing of the optical fiber cable 5 in the bearing bush 3 is not limited here. It can be directly connected to the external device along the bearing bush 3, or it can extend into the interior of the bearing bush 3 through the oil inlet 3a, as long as it can achieve connection with the external device without affecting the normal operation of the bearing bush 3. In a preferred embodiment, a first reserved hole 3c is formed on the bearing bush 3, and the optical fiber cable 5 extends into the bearing bush 3 along the oil inlet 3a and passes through the reserved hole to connect with the external device. With this design, the optical cable 5 is embedded within the pre-drilled hole, eliminating the need for additional openings on the outer surface of the bearing bush 3. This avoids damaging the sealing structure of the bearing bush 3 and prevents lubricant leakage. Utilizing the redundant space of the oil inlet 3a and the pre-drilled hole for wiring improves the overall structural compactness. Furthermore, a support portion 6 is provided inside the bearing bush 3, with a second pre-drilled hole 6a formed on the support portion 6. The optical cable 5 passes through both the second pre-drilled hole 6a and the first pre-drilled hole 3c in one pass. This design not only enhances the overall strength of the bearing bush 3 but also provides an intermediate fixing point for the optical cable 5, reducing friction between the optical cable 5 and the inner wall of the bearing bush 3. This prevents scratches or fatigue damage to the inner wall of the bearing bush 3 caused by long-term friction and facilitates quick positioning during subsequent replacement or maintenance of the optical cable 5.

[0042] It should be understood that the specific embodiments described above are merely illustrative or explanatory of the principles of this utility model and do not constitute a limitation thereof. Therefore, any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made without departing from the spirit and scope of this utility model should be included within its protection scope. Furthermore, the appended claims are intended to cover all variations and modifications falling within the scope and boundaries of the appended claims, or equivalent forms of such scope and boundaries.

Claims

1. A side-mounted bearing temperature sensor, characterized in that, The side-mounted bearing temperature sensor includes a probe (1) and a fixing plate (2). The probe (1) is connected to the fixing plate (2), and the fixing plate (2) is fixedly connected to the side of the bearing (3). An oil inlet (3a) is formed on the side of the bearing (3). The probe (1) is located inside the oil inlet (3a) of the bearing (3), and the end face of the probe (1) is located upstream of the oil inlet (3a).

2. The side-mounted bearing temperature sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The probe (1) is detachably connected to the fixing plate (2), or the probe (1) and the fixing plate (2) are integrally formed.

3. The side-mounted bearing temperature sensor according to claim 2, characterized in that, The probe (1) is perpendicular to the fixing plate (2), and the fixing plate (2) is sleeved on the probe (1).

4. The side-mounted bearing temperature sensor according to claim 3, characterized in that, The fixing plate (2) has a plurality of mounting holes (2a) formed on it. The plurality of mounting holes (2a) are distributed on both sides of the probe (1). The fixing plate (2) and the side of the bearing (3) are fixedly connected through the plurality of mounting holes (2a).

5. The side-mounted bearing temperature sensor according to claim 4, characterized in that, The probe (1) includes a first part (11) and a second part (12), the first part (11) and the second part (12) are integrally formed, the diameter of the second part (12) is larger than the diameter of the first part (11), the fixing plate (2) is sleeved on the first part (11), and the second part (12) abuts against the fixing plate (2).

6. The side-mounted bearing temperature sensor according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first part (11) is located upstream of the oil inlet (3a), and the second part (12) is located downstream of the oil inlet (3a).

7. The side-mounted bearing temperature sensor according to claim 6, characterized in that, The bearing bush (3) has a fixing groove (3b) formed on its side, the fixing groove (3b) being perpendicular to the oil inlet (3a), and the fixing plate (2) being disposed in the fixing groove (3b).

8. The side-mounted bearing temperature sensor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The probe (1) integrates a temperature measuring element (4), the temperature measuring element (4) is connected to an optical cable (5), and the optical cable (5) is connected to an external device.

9. The side-mounted bearing temperature sensor according to claim 8, characterized in that, A first reserved hole (3c) is formed on the bearing (3). The optical cable (5) extends into the bearing (3) along the oil inlet (3a) and passes through the reserved hole to connect with external equipment.

10. The side-mounted bearing temperature sensor according to claim 9, characterized in that, The bearing bush (3) is provided with a support part (6), and a second reserved hole (6a) is formed on the support part (6). The optical cable (5) passes through the second reserved hole (6a) and the first reserved hole (3c) at the same time.