bearing

Abstract

This invention provides a semi-floating ring bearing assembly for turbomachinery. The semi-floating ring bearing assembly includes a bearing housing comprising a bearing cavity, a retaining plate, and a semi-floating ring bearing. The semi-floating ring bearing includes a body comprising a central axis, a first end, a second end, and an outer surface. The semi-floating ring bearing also includes a flange disposed at the first end of the body. The bearing housing and the flange define at least one pair of complementary features that cooperate to restrict axial movement of the semi-floating ring bearing. The retaining plate and the flange define at least one pair of complementary features that cooperate to restrict rotational movement of the semi-floating ring bearing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to a semi-floating ring bearing for turbomachinery. It also relates to a semi-floating ring bearing assembly for turbomachinery, turbomachinery itself, and a method for assembling the semi-floating ring bearing. Background Technology

[0002] A turbocharger is a well-known device used to supply air to the intake of an internal combustion engine at a pressure higher than atmospheric pressure (boost pressure). A conventional turbocharger consists of an exhaust-driven turbine mounted on a rotatable shaft within a turbine housing. The rotation of the turbine impeller drives the rotation of a compressor impeller mounted on the other end of a shaft inside a compressor cover. The compressor impeller delivers compressed air to the engine's intake manifold, thereby increasing engine power.

[0003] The turbocharger shaft is typically supported by a semi-floating ring bearing and a thrust bearing, including a suitable lubrication system, and is located within a central bearing housing connecting the turbine and compressor. The turbine housing and compressor housing are typically mounted to the bearing housing.

[0004] The rotational and axial movement of semi-floating ring bearings is restricted in use. This is typically achieved by providing a locking pin that is fixed to the bearing housing and extends into a bore located in the body of the semi-floating ring bearing. Assembly of semi-floating ring bearings can be time-consuming because it is difficult for the user to position the locking pin within the bore of the semi-floating ring bearing.

[0005] This invention aims to solve one or more problems associated with conventional semi-floating ring bearings, both herein and elsewhere. Utility Model Content

[0006] In a first aspect, a semi-floating ring bearing assembly for turbomachinery is provided. The semi-floating ring bearing assembly includes a bearing housing comprising a bearing cavity, a retaining plate, and a semi-floating ring bearing. The semi-floating ring bearing includes a body comprising a central axis, a first end, a second end, and an outer surface. The semi-floating ring bearing also includes a flange disposed at the first end of the body. The bearing housing and the flange define at least one pair of complementary features that cooperate to restrict axial movement of the semi-floating ring bearing. The retaining plate and the flange define at least one pair of complementary features that cooperate to restrict rotational movement of the semi-floating ring bearing.

[0007] The flange can extend radially beyond the outer surface of the body.

[0008] Semi-floating ring bearings can be received by a bearing cavity. Semi-floating ring bearings can be housed within a bearing cavity.

[0009] The flange may extend around the central axis, or only partially around the central axis.

[0010] At least one pair of complementary features restricting the rotational movement of a semi-floating ring bearing can be understood as implying that the degree of rotation of the semi-floating ring bearing is permitted, but limited. Similarly, at least one pair of complementary features restricting the axial movement of a semi-floating ring bearing can be understood as implying that a certain degree of axial movement of the semi-floating ring bearing is permitted, but limited.

[0011] Here and throughout this article, the rotation of the semi-floating ring bearing can be understood as the rotation of the semi-floating ring bearing around its central axis. Here and throughout this article, the axial movement of the semi-floating ring bearing can be understood as the translation of the semi-floating ring bearing in a direction parallel to its central axis.

[0012] Because the flange of the semi-floating ring bearing defines features complementary to the retaining plate and bearing housing to restrict the rotational and axial movements of the semi-floating ring bearing, the assembly of the semi-floating ring bearing into the bearing housing is advantageously simplified. This is because the user can easily position the flange features during assembly to properly constrain the semi-floating ring bearing in use. Furthermore, since the flange defines features complementary to the retaining plate and bearing housing to restrict the rotational and axial movements of the semi-floating ring bearing, fewer parts are needed to restrict the movement of the semi-floating ring bearing, which further simplifies the assembly of the semi-floating ring bearing assembly.

[0013] The bearing housing may include grooves. Flanges may be received by the grooves to limit the axial movement of the semi-floating ring bearing.

[0014] The groove can be formed integrally with the shell.

[0015] In cases where the bearing housing includes a groove and the flange can be received by the groove to limit the axial movement of the semi-floating ring bearing, the axial movement of the semi-floating ring bearing is limited in a simple and robust manner.

[0016] In a first configuration of the semi-floating ring bearing, the semi-floating ring bearing can be inserted into or removed from the bearing cavity. In a second configuration of the semi-floating ring bearing, the flange of the semi-floating ring bearing can be received by a groove, thereby restricting the axial movement of the semi-floating ring bearing.

[0017] The groove's reception of the flange robustly restricts the axial movement of the semi-floating ring bearing. This reduces the likelihood of axial movement during use.

[0018] The semi-floating ring bearing can rotate between the first and second configurations.

[0019] The assembly of the semi-floating ring bearing assembly is more efficient when the semi-floating ring bearing can rotate between a first and a second configuration. This is because the user can move it to the second configuration simply by rotating the semi-floating ring bearing.

[0020] The periphery of the flange may be non-axisymmetric to define at least one anti-rotation feature. The at least one anti-rotation feature may mate with at least one complementary anti-rotation feature of the stop plate.

[0021] If the periphery of the flange is non-axisymmetric to define at least one anti-rotation feature, the rotation of the semi-floating ring bearing can be easily restricted. This is because the user can easily identify the anti-rotation feature and position the semi-floating ring bearing accordingly. This makes the assembly of the semi-floating ring bearing more efficient.

[0022] In a plane perpendicular to the central axis, the periphery of the flange can be asymmetrical.

[0023] The asymmetry of the flange perimeter can be understood as the flange perimeter being asymmetrical regardless of the orientation of the reference plane used to determine the symmetry of the flange perimeter. The reference plane is set on the central axis.

[0024] If the periphery of the flange is asymmetrical in a plane perpendicular to the central axis, the flange acts as part of the shift fork mechanism when inserted into the bearing housing. This advantageously helps the user assemble the semi-floating ring bearing into a bearing assembly. Therefore, assembling the semi-floating ring bearing into the bearing housing is more efficient when the periphery of the flange is asymmetrical in a plane perpendicular to the central axis.

[0025] The periphery of the flange may include at least one flat portion.

[0026] At least one flat portion may define at least one anti-rotation feature.

[0027] When the periphery of the flange includes at least one flat portion, the anti-rotation feature is particularly effective in preventing the semi-floating ring bearing from rotating during use. This is because, for example, at least one flat portion provides a greater amount of contact with the corresponding abutment compared to using point contact.

[0028] The stop plate may include at least one arm. When the semi-floating ring bearing is in the second configuration, at least one arm may be configured to engage at least one anti-rotation feature of the flange to limit the rotation of the semi-floating ring bearing.

[0029] When the stop plate includes at least one arm configured to engage at least one anti-rotation feature, the rotation of the semi-floating ring bearing can be robustly restrained.

[0030] A flange can define a primary part and a secondary part. The radius of the primary part can be larger than the radius of the secondary part.

[0031] The radius of the secondary part can be equal to the radius of the outer surface of the semi-floating ring bearing.

[0032] The arc angle of the main part can be at least 30 degrees and / or less than 150 degrees.

[0033] When the arc angle of the main component is at least 30 degrees and / or less than 150 degrees, assembling the semi-floating ring bearing into the bearing housing is more convenient for the user. This is because the semi-floating ring bearing can be easily positioned during assembly. Furthermore, the flange can withstand the axial forces applied to it during use, while restricting the axial movement of the semi-floating ring bearing.

[0034] The groove can define the arc angle. The arc angle of the groove can be greater than or equal to the arc angle of the main part of the flange.

[0035] When the arc angle of the groove is greater than or equal to the arc angle of the main portion of the flange, the contact between the groove and the main portion of the flange is maximized. This is ideal because the axial load applied to the groove by the flange during use is distributed over a larger area, which reduces the stress on the bearing housing in the area of ​​the groove. This advantageously reduces the likelihood of wear and / or other damage to the bearing housing during use.

[0036] The stop plate can limit the oil baffle.

[0037] With the stop plate limiting the oil baffle, the assembly of semi-floating ring bearings is more efficient. This is because a separate oil baffle is not required.

[0038] The first axial end face of the body can define the thrust pad.

[0039] With the thrust washer defined on the first axial end face of the body, the assembly of the semi-floating ring bearing is more efficient. This is because a separate thrust washer is not required.

[0040] In a second aspect of this invention, a semi-floating ring bearing for a turbomachinery is provided. The turbomachinery includes a bearing housing, and a stop plate is received within the bearing housing. The semi-floating ring bearing includes a body. The body includes a central axis, a first end, a second end, and an outer surface. The semi-floating ring bearing also includes a flange disposed at the first end of the body. When the semi-floating ring bearing is received by the bearing housing, the flange is configured to cooperate with the bearing housing to restrict axial movement of the semi-floating ring bearing and to cooperate with the stop plate to restrict rotational movement of the semi-floating ring bearing.

[0041] The flange mates with the bearing housing and the retaining plate to restrict the axial and rotational movements of the semi-floating ring bearing, respectively. This advantageously simplifies the assembly of the semi-floating ring bearing into the bearing housing, as fewer parts are required.

[0042] Semi-floating ring bearings can be used in semi-floating ring bearing assemblies for turbines. A semi-floating ring bearing assembly may include a housing and a retaining plate.

[0043] The flange located at the first end of the body can be understood as the flange being located at the absolute end of the body or in the end region of the body.

[0044] The at least one anti-rotation feature can be configured to be engaged during use to limit the rotation of the semi-floating ring bearing.

[0045] The flange can extend radially beyond the outer surface of the body.

[0046] The periphery of the flange may be non-axisymmetric to define at least one anti-rotation feature. At least one anti-rotation feature of the flange may mate with at least one complementary anti-rotation feature of the stop plate.

[0047] In a plane perpendicular to the central axis, the periphery of the flange can be asymmetrical.

[0048] The periphery of the flange may include at least one flat portion.

[0049] A flange can define a primary part and a secondary part. The radius of the primary part can be larger than the radius of the secondary part.

[0050] The radius of the secondary part can be equal to the radius of the outer surface of the semi-floating ring bearing.

[0051] The arc angle of the main part can be at least 30 degrees and / or less than 150 degrees.

[0052] The first axial end face of the body can define the thrust pad.

[0053] In a third aspect of this invention, a turbomachinery comprising a semi-floating ring bearing assembly is provided. The turbomachinery includes a turbine, a compressor, and a semi-floating ring bearing assembly. The semi-floating ring bearing assembly includes a bearing housing disposed between the turbine and the compressor. The bearing housing includes a bearing cavity. The semi-floating ring bearing assembly also includes a stop plate and a semi-floating ring bearing. The semi-floating ring bearing includes a body comprising a central axis, a first end, a second end, and an outer surface. The semi-floating ring bearing also includes a flange disposed at the first end of the body. The bearing housing and the flange define at least one pair of complementary features that cooperate to restrict axial movement of the semi-floating ring bearing. The stop plate and the flange define at least one pair of complementary features that cooperate to restrict rotational movement of the semi-floating ring bearing.

[0054] Turbomachinery can be a turbocharger.

[0055] The flange can extend radially beyond the outer surface of the body.

[0056] The periphery of the flange may be non-axisymmetric to define at least one anti-rotation feature.

[0057] The semi-floating ring bearing assembly can be the semi-floating ring bearing assembly according to the first aspect of this utility model.

[0058] Any feature of the semi-floating ring bearing assembly disclosed in the first aspect of this utility model can be combined with the third aspect of this utility model.

[0059] In a fourth aspect of this invention, a method for assembling a semi-floating ring bearing assembly for turbomachinery is provided. The method includes: providing a bearing housing including a bearing cavity; and providing a semi-floating ring shaft. The semi-floating ring bearing includes a body including a central axis, a first end, a second end, and an outer surface; and a flange disposed at the first end of the body. The method further includes inserting the semi-floating ring bearing into the bearing housing; and mounting a stop plate to the bearing housing. The bearing housing and the flange define at least one pair of complementary features that cooperate to restrict axial movement of the semi-floating ring bearing. The stop plate and the flange define at least one pair of complementary features that cooperate to restrict rotational movement of the semi-floating ring bearing.

[0060] The method may include inserting a semi-floating ring bearing into a bearing cavity.

[0061] The method may include fixing a stop plate to the bearing housing.

[0062] The bearing housing may include a groove. The method may also include, after inserting the semi-floating ring bearing into the bearing cavity, rotating the semi-floating ring bearing such that the flange is positioned in the groove to restrict axial movement of the semi-floating ring bearing.

[0063] The stop plate may include at least one arm. A flange may define at least one anti-rotation feature. The stop plate may be fixed to the bearing housing such that at least one arm of the stop plate engages with at least one anti-rotation feature to limit the rotation of the semi-floating ring bearing. Attached Figure Description

[0064] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0065] Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the turbocharger is shown;

[0066] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1A cross-sectional view of the bearing housing of the turbocharger in the image;

[0067] Figure 3 It shows Figure 1 A perspective view of the semi-floating ring bearing assembly of the turbocharger in the image;

[0068] Figure 4 It shows Figure 3 A front view of the semi-floating ring bearing assembly;

[0069] Figure 5 It shows Figure 2 A front view of the bearing housing, in which the bearing housing is set Figure 3 Semi-floating ring bearings in bearing assemblies;

[0070] Figure 6 It shows Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the bearing housing, in which a... Figure 3 Semi-floating ring bearing assembly; and

[0071] Figure 7 It shows Figure 2 A front view of the bearing housing, in which the bearing housing is set Figure 3 The bearing assembly. Detailed Implementation

[0072] Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a turbocharger 2 is shown. The turbocharger 2 includes a turbine 4 connected to a compressor 6 via a central bearing housing 8. The turbine 4 includes a turbine wheel 10 for rotation within a turbine housing 12. The turbine wheel 10 includes blades 14 and is rotatable about a central axis 16 of the turbocharger 2. Similarly, the compressor 6 includes a compressor wheel 17 (or "impeller") that includes blades 19. Figure 1 (Only one is marked in the image), and can rotate about a central axis 16 within the compressor housing 18. The compressor housing 18 defines a compressor chamber 20, which is primarily filled with a compressor wheel 17, and the compressor wheel 17 can rotate within this compressor chamber 20. The turbine wheel 10 and the compressor wheel 17 are mounted on opposite ends of a common turbocharger shaft 22, which extends through a central bearing housing 8. The turbocharger shaft 22 is rotatably supported by a bearing assembly 24 disposed in the bearing housing 8. The bearing assembly 24 includes a semi-floating ring bearing 26 and a stop plate 28.

[0073] The bearing housing 8 provides a lubrication system for the turbocharger assembly. The bearing housing 8 includes a series of channels 30a-30c through which oil is supplied to the bearing assembly 24. Manifold 30a leads to a first oil line 30b and a second oil line 30c. Channels 30a-30c receive oil from the engine oil circuit (not shown).

[0074] Compressor sealing assembly 32 and turbine sealing assembly 34 are disposed within bearing housing 8. Sealing assemblies 32 and 34 respectively attempt to prevent oil leakage from bearing housing 8 and turbine 4 or compressor 6. Compressor sealing assembly 32 includes an oil seal plate 36 and an oil slinger ring 38. Turbine sealing assembly 34 includes sealing members 40a and 40b that sealably engage turbocharger shaft 22 and bearing housing 8.

[0075] Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the bearing housing 8 is shown. The bearing housing 8 defines a first cavity 42, a second cavity 44, and a third cavity 46. The first cavity 42 is adjacent to the third cavity 46. The second cavity 44 is adjacent to the third cavity 46. The third cavity 46 is disposed between the first cavity 42 and the second cavity 44. Compressor sealing assembly ( Figure 2 (Not shown) can be received in the first cavity 42. Therefore, the first cavity 42 can be referred to as the compressor sealing assembly cavity or the first sealing cavity. Turbine sealing assembly ( Figure 2 (Not shown in the image) can be received in the second cavity 44. Therefore, the second cavity 44 can be referred to as the turbine sealing assembly cavity or the second sealing cavity. Semi-floating ring bearing ( Figure 2 At least a portion of (not shown) may be received in the third cavity 46. Therefore, the third cavity 46 may be referred to as the semi-floating ring bearing cavity or bearing cavity.

[0076] A first cavity 42 defines a first surface 48, a second surface 49, and a third surface 51. The first surface 48 is adjacent to the third cavity 46. The second surface 49 is spaced apart from the first surface 48 by an axially extending wall 53. The axially extending wall 53 extends between the first surface 48 and the second surface 49. A groove 52 extends into the axially extending wall 53. In use, a stop plate ( Figure 2 (Not shown in the image) abuts against the second surface 49. A shoulder 59 is disposed between the second surface 49 and the third surface 51. In use, the oil seal plate ( Figure 2 (Not shown in the image) abuts against the third surface 51. During use, the oil seal plate also abuts against the stop plate (…). Figure 2 (Not shown in the image).

[0077] Figure 3 A perspective view of the semi-floating ring bearing assembly 24 is shown. A stop plate 28 defines a main portion 66. A bore 68 extends through the main portion 66. A first arm 70 and a second arm 72 extend from the periphery of the bore. Arms 70 and 72 are used to limit the rotation of the semi-floating ring bearing 26 in use, which will be discussed in more detail below. Each arm includes a respective first portion 74 ( Figure 3 Only one of them is marked in the text) and their respective second parts 76 ( Figure 3(Only one of them is marked). The first portion 74 extends generally parallel to the central axis 56, and the second portion 76 extends radially inward toward the central axis 56. In some embodiments not shown, only a portion of the length of the first portion needs to extend in a direction generally parallel to the central axis. In some embodiments not shown, only a portion of the length of the second portion needs to extend in a radially inward direction. The first portion 74 may be referred to as the proximal portion of arms 70, 72. The second portion 76 may be referred to as the distal portion of arms 70, 72. The first portion 74 and the second portion 76 define corresponding distal ends 77, 79 of the arms. The stop plate 28 includes an oil baffle 63. The oil baffle 63 extends from the main portion 66.

[0078] The semi-floating ring bearing 26 includes a body 54. The body 54 defines a central axis 56. The body 54 defines a first end 58 and a second end 60. The first end 58 is located at the end of the body 54 opposite to the second end 60. The body 54 includes a first end face 55. The body 54 includes a second end face (…). Figure 3 (Not visible in the middle, it is obscured by the body). The first end face 55 is generally opposite to the second end face. The first end face 55 and the second end face define corresponding thrust pads 57 ( Figure 3 Only the thrust pad on the first end face is visible. The thrust pad 57 is integrally formed with the body 54. However, in some embodiments, one or both end faces 55 do not need to define the thrust pad 57. The body 54 defines an outer surface 62. The outer surface 62 of the body 54 is typically cylindrical.

[0079] The semi-floating ring bearing 26 includes a flange 64. The flange 64 can be received by a recess 52 in use, as will be discussed in more detail below. The flange 64 is disposed at a first end 58 of the body 54. The flange 64 disposed at the first end 58 of the body 54 can be understood to mean that the flange 64 is disposed at the absolute end of the body 54, or optionally at an end region of the body 54. When the flange 64 is disposed at the absolute end of the body 54, at least a portion of the flange may define at least a portion of a first end face 55. The flange 64 extends radially (relative to the central axis 56) beyond the outer surface 62 of the body 54 of the semi-floating ring bearing 26. The flange 64 surrounds the central axis 56. However, in some embodiments, the flange 64 may only extend a portion around the central axis 56.

[0080] Reference Figure 4Flange 64 defines a primary portion 71 and a secondary portion 73. The radius of the primary portion 71 is greater than the radius of the secondary portion 73. A first flat portion 67 and a second flat portion 69 are adjacent to the primary portion 71. The secondary portion 73 of flange 64 can be defined as the portion of flange 64 that defines the minimum radius of flange 64. In some embodiments, the radius of the secondary portion 73 can be equal to the radius of the outer surface 62 of body 54. The primary portion 71 defines an arc angle. The arc angle of the primary portion may be at least 30° and / or less than 150°. The first flat portion 67 and the second flat portion 69 are adjacent to the secondary portion 73. The arc angle of the primary portion 71 can be defined as the angle between radial axes intersecting the respective endpoints of the circumferential portion of flange 64 that defines the maximum radius of flange 64. If flange 64 extends only a portion around the central axis 56, the secondary portion 73 is not required, or the radius of the secondary portion 73 can be said to be equal to the radius of the outer surface 62 of body 54. In some embodiments, the flange may include a plurality of primary portions and a plurality of secondary portions, which are alternately distributed among the primary portions. In this embodiment, the shapes of the second surface 49 and the axially extending wall 53 are complementary to the shape of the flange 64 to allow the flange 64 to enter the recess 52.

[0081] The periphery 65 of flange 64 is non-axisymmetric. This allows the periphery of flange 64 to define the anti-rotation feature of the semi-floating ring bearing 26, as will be discussed in more detail below. Perpendicular to the central axis (extending to...) Figure 4 Within the plane of the page (as shown), the perimeter 65 of flange 64 is asymmetrical. This plane can be... Figure 4 The peripheral plane of flange 64 is asymmetrical, regardless of the orientation of the reference plane used to determine the symmetry of the peripheral plane of flange 64. The peripheral plane of flange 64 is asymmetrical in this way, which allows flange 64 to be inserted into the bearing housing (…). Figure 4(Not shown) can be used as part of a shift fork mechanism. The periphery 65 of flange 64 is discontinuous. The discontinuity of the periphery 65 of flange 64 can be understood as the periphery of flange 64 having a non-constant radius. The discontinuity of the periphery 65 of flange 64 can be understood as the periphery of flange 64 being non-circular, but may define one or more arcuate portions. Each portion of the periphery 65 of flange 64 may extend tangentially from adjacent portions, and the periphery of flange 64 is discontinuous. The periphery 65 of flange 64 defines a first flat portion 67 and a second flat portion 69. In some embodiments not shown, the periphery of flange may define only a single flat portion, or it may define three or more flat portions. The first flat portion 67 and the second flat portion 69 are disposed on radially opposite sides of flange 64. However, this is not the case. The flat portions 67, 69 define at least one anti-rotation feature of flange 64. In some embodiments, the periphery 65 of flange 64 may define any discontinuous geometry. For example, at least one anti-rotation feature of flange 64 can be in the form of any other linear geometry, or in the form of one or more arcuate portions having a radius different from that of the main portion 71 of flange. In use, the first arm 70 and the second arm 72 of stop plate 28, particularly the distal ends 77, 79 of arms 70, 72, are respectively arranged adjacent to or engaged with the first flat portion 67 and the second flat portion 69 to limit rotation of semi-floating ring bearing 26. The shapes of the distal ends 77, 79 can be complementary to the geometry of the flat portions 67, 69, or to any other anti-rotation geometry defined by flange 64. Thus, stop plate 28 and flange 64 define a pair of complementary features that cooperate to limit rotational movement of semi-floating ring bearing 26.

[0082] Now for reference Figure 5 As described above, the bearing housing 8 includes a recess 52. The recess 52 surrounds the central axis of the turbocharger (extending to...). Figure 5 (On the page) Extends. The groove 52 extends circumferentially around the central axis of the turbocharger. Figure 5The dashed line in the figure shows the approximate location of the groove 52. The groove 52 is disposed in the first cavity 42. The groove 52 abuts the first surface 48. The groove 52 is generally arcuate. However, in some embodiments, the groove 52 can take any suitable shape. For example, the groove 52 can be linear and / or can define one or more vertices. The groove 52 is machined (e.g., milled) into the bearing housing 8. However, the groove 52 can be provided by any suitable method. At least a portion of the flange 64 can be received by the groove 52, which will be discussed in more detail below. The groove 52 defines an arc angle. The arc angle of the groove 52 can be at least 10° and / or up to 170°. However, in some embodiments, the arc angle of the groove 52 may fall outside this range. The arc angle of the groove 52 is greater than or equal to the arc angle of the main portion 71 of the flange 64. This advantageously reduces the likelihood of damage to the flange 64 when subjected to axial loads during use, because the contact area between the flange 64 and the groove 52 is maximized. However, in some embodiments not shown, the arc angle of the groove 52 may be smaller than the arc angle of the main portion 71 of the flange 64. Preferably, the sum of the arc angle of the groove 52 and the arc angle of the main portion 71 of the flange 64 is less than 360°.

[0083] The semi-floating ring bearing 26 can be positioned in a first configuration and a second configuration. The semi-floating ring bearing 26 is rotatable between the first and second configurations. In the first configuration, the semi-floating ring bearing 26 can be inserted into or removed from the third cavity 46. In the first configuration of the semi-floating ring bearing 26, the secondary portion 73 of the flange 64 is circumferentially aligned with the groove 52. That is, the primary portion 71 of the flange 64 is not circumferentially aligned with the groove 52. This allows the semi-floating ring bearing 26 to be inserted into the third cavity 46 such that the flange 64 engages with the first surface 48 of the first cavity 42. Once the flange 64 engages with the first surface 48, the semi-floating ring bearing 26 can be positioned in the second configuration. Figure 5 The semi-floating ring bearing 26 in a second configuration is shown. With the flange 64 engaged with the first surface 48, rotation of the semi-floating ring bearing 26 about its central axis 56 moves the main portion 71 of the flange 64 into the groove 52. In the second configuration, the first flat portion 67 and the second flat portion 69 of the flange 64 are not disposed in the groove 52. With the flange 64 located in the groove 52, the axial movement of the semi-floating ring bearing 26 is restricted due to the engagement of the flange 64 with the groove 52. Therefore, the flange 64 and the groove 52 define a pair of complementary features that cooperate to restrict the axial movement of the semi-floating ring bearing 26 in use. With the semi-floating ring bearing 26 in the second configuration, the arm of the stop plate ( Figure 5 (Not shown) can engage with the corresponding flat portions 67, 69 of the flange 64 to restrict the rotational movement of the semi-floating ring bearing 26.

[0084] Now refer to Figure 6 The assembly of the semi-floating ring bearing assembly 24 is discussed. With the semi-floating ring bearing 26 in its first configuration, the semi-floating ring bearing 26, particularly its body 54, is inserted into the third cavity 46 of the bearing housing 8 until the flange 64 engages with the first surface 48 of the first cavity 42 of the bearing housing 8. Then, the semi-floating ring bearing 26 is rotated to a second configuration such that the main portion 71 of the flange 64 is received by the groove 52. The stop plate 28 is then inserted into the first cavity 42 of the bearing housing 8 such that the main portion 66 of the stop plate 28 engages with the second surface 49 of the first cavity 42. Furthermore, the stop plate 28 is inserted such that the first arm and the second arm of the stop plate 28 (…) Figure 6 (not visible in the middle), especially the distal end of the arm, which is respectively connected to the first flat portion and the second flat portion ( Figure 6 (Invisible) engagement. The engagement of the arm with the flat portion restricts the rotation of the semi-floating ring bearing 26. The first and second arms of the stop plate 28, as well as the first and second flat portions, define complementary features that cooperate to restrict the rotational movement of the semi-floating ring bearing 26. The oil seal plate 36 is then inserted into the first cavity 42, such that the oil seal plate 36 engages with the stop plate 28. The engagement of the oil seal plate 36 with the stop plate 28 restricts the movement of the stop plate 28. Figure 7 The bearing housing 8 is shown after the semi-floating ring bearing assembly 24 has been assembled into the bearing housing 8. As can be seen, the distal ends 77, 79 of the first arm 70 and the second arm 72 are disposed adjacent to the flat portions 67, 69 of the flange 64. Furthermore, the flange 64 is disposed in a recess ( Figure 7 (Not visible in the middle).

[0085] Although the above description is made with reference to a turbocharger, this invention is applicable to any type of turbomachinery. For example, this invention can be applied to electric turbochargers or superchargers.

[0086] While specific embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it should be understood that the present invention can be practiced in ways other than those described. The above description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. Therefore, those skilled in the art will understand that modifications can be made to the present invention without departing from the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. A semi-floating ring bearing assembly for turbomachinery, the semi-floating ring bearing assembly comprising: Bearing housing, the bearing housing including bearing cavity; Stop plate; and A semi-floating ring bearing, the semi-floating ring bearing comprising: - The main body includes a central axis, a first end, a second end, and an outer surface; and - A flange, wherein the flange is disposed at the first end of the main body; The bearing housing and the flange define at least one pair of complementary features that cooperate to restrict the axial movement of the semi-floating ring bearing, and the stop plate and the flange define at least one pair of complementary features that cooperate to restrict the rotational movement of the semi-floating ring bearing.

2. The semi-floating ring bearing assembly of claim 1, wherein the bearing housing includes a groove, and the flange is receptive to the groove to restrict axial movement of the semi-floating ring bearing.

3. The semi-floating ring bearing assembly of claim 2, wherein in a first configuration of the semi-floating ring bearing, the semi-floating ring bearing is insertable into or withdrawable from the bearing cavity, and in a second configuration of the semi-floating ring bearing, the flange of the semi-floating ring bearing is received by the groove, thereby restricting axial movement of the semi-floating ring bearing.

4. The semi-floating ring bearing assembly of claim 3, wherein the semi-floating ring bearing is rotatable between the first configuration and the second configuration.

5. The semi-floating ring bearing assembly of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the periphery of the flange is non-axisymmetric to define at least one anti-rotation feature, the anti-rotation feature cooperating with at least one complementary anti-rotation feature of the stop plate.

6. The semi-floating ring bearing assembly of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the periphery of the flange is asymmetrical in a plane perpendicular to the central axis.

7. The semi-floating ring bearing assembly of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the periphery of the flange includes at least one flat portion.

8. The semi-floating ring bearing assembly of claim 7, wherein the stop plate includes at least one arm configured to engage with at least one anti-rotation feature of the flange to limit rotation of the semi-floating ring bearing when the semi-floating ring bearing is in a second configuration.

9. The semi-floating ring bearing assembly of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the flange defines a primary portion and a secondary portion, the radius of the primary portion being greater than the radius of the secondary portion.

10. The semi-floating ring bearing assembly of claim 9, wherein the arc angle of the main portion is at least 30 degrees and less than 150 degrees.

11. The semi-floating ring bearing assembly of claim 9, wherein the bearing housing includes a groove, and the flange is receptable by the groove to restrict axial movement of the semi-floating ring bearing, wherein the groove defines an arc angle, and wherein the arc angle of the groove is greater than or equal to the arc angle of the main portion of the flange.

12. The semi-floating ring bearing assembly of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the stop plate defines an oil baffle.

13. The semi-floating ring bearing assembly of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first axial end face of the body defines a thrust pad.

14. A semi-floating ring bearing for a turbine, the turbine including a bearing housing, a retaining plate being received within the bearing housing, the semi-floating ring bearing comprising: The main body includes a central axis, a first end, a second end, and an outer surface; and A flange is provided at the first end of the main body; When the semi-floating ring bearing is received by the bearing housing, the flange is configured to cooperate with the bearing housing to restrict the axial movement of the semi-floating ring bearing and to cooperate with the stop plate to restrict the rotational movement of the semi-floating ring bearing.

15. The semi-floating ring bearing of claim 14, wherein the periphery of the flange is non-axisymmetric to define at least one anti-rotation feature, the anti-rotation feature cooperating with at least one complementary anti-rotation feature of the stop plate.

16. The semi-floating ring bearing of claim 14 or claim 15, wherein the periphery of the flange is asymmetrical in a plane perpendicular to the central axis.

17. The semi-floating ring bearing of claim 14 or claim 15, wherein the periphery of the flange includes at least one flat portion.

18. The semi-floating ring bearing of claim 14 or claim 15, wherein the flange defines a primary portion and a secondary portion, the radius of the primary portion being greater than the radius of the secondary portion.

19. The semi-floating ring bearing of claim 18, wherein the arc angle of the main portion is at least 30 degrees and less than 150 degrees.

20. The semi-floating ring bearing of claim 14 or claim 15, wherein the first axial end face of the body defines a thrust pad.

21. A turbomachinery including a semi-floating ring bearing assembly, the turbomachinery comprising: Turbines and compressors; and A semi-floating ring bearing assembly, the semi-floating ring bearing assembly comprising: • Bearing housing, disposed between the turbine and the compressor, the bearing housing including a bearing cavity; • Stop plate; and • A semi-floating ring bearing, the semi-floating ring bearing comprising: - A main body, the main body comprising a central axis, a first end, a second end, and an outer surface; and - A flange, wherein the flange is disposed at the first end of the main body; The bearing housing and the flange define at least one pair of complementary features that cooperate to restrict the axial movement of the semi-floating ring bearing, and the stop plate and the flange define at least one pair of complementary features that cooperate to restrict the rotational movement of the semi-floating ring bearing.

22. The turbomachinery of claim 21, wherein the semi-floating ring bearing assembly is the semi-floating ring bearing assembly of claim 1.

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