Rolling bearing, and rolling bearing device

Abstract

To provide a rolling bearing capable of easily detecting rotational abnormality of a rolling element.SOLUTION: A rolling bearing 10 comprises: an inner ring 11; an outer ring 12 arranged in a radial direction outside the inner ring 11; a plurality of rolling elements 13 arranged in the radial direction between the inner ring 11 and the outer ring 12; and a retainer 20 that holds the plurality of rolling elements 13. The retainer 20 has a base part 21 extending in a circumferential direction, and a plurality of rolling element holding parts 22 connected to the base 21, protruding in an axial direction X, and respectively holding the plurality of rolling elements 13; and includes a deformation promotion structure that facilitates deformation of the plurality of rolling element holding parts 22 in the circumferential direction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a rolling bearing and a rolling bearing device. [Background technology]

[0002] The rolling bearing includes a retainer that holds multiple rolling elements. The retainer has a ring that extends in an annular shape and multiple horns that protrude from the ring in the axial direction (see, for example, Patent Document 1). The rolling elements are held by the multiple horns and a link portion. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2022-134949 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] For example, in detecting abnormalities in rolling bearings, there is a method for detecting abnormal rotation of the rolling elements by detecting deformation of a retainer that holds the rolling elements. However, the retainer described in Patent Document 1 mentioned above has difficulty in detecting abnormal rotation of the rolling elements because deformation of the horns that hold the rolling elements is suppressed.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a rolling bearing and a rolling bearing device that make it possible to easily detect abnormal rotation of a rolling element. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A rolling bearing according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises an inner ring, an outer ring arranged radially outside the inner ring, a plurality of rolling elements arranged radially between the inner ring and the outer ring, and a retainer that holds the plurality of rolling elements, the retainer having a base extending in the circumferential direction and a plurality of rolling element holding portions connected to the base, protruding in the axial direction, and each holding the plurality of rolling elements, and includes a deformation promoting structure that facilitates circumferential deformation of the plurality of rolling element holding portions.

[0007] A rolling bearing device according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises an inner ring, an outer ring arranged radially outside the inner ring, a plurality of rolling elements arranged radially between the inner ring and the outer ring, a retainer that holds the plurality of rolling elements, and a sensor that can detect rotational abnormalities of the plurality of rolling elements, wherein the retainer has a base extending in a circumferential direction and a plurality of rolling element holding portions connected to the base, protruding in the axial direction, and each holding a plurality of rolling elements, and includes a deformation promoting structure that facilitates deformation of the plurality of rolling element holding portions in the circumferential direction. Effect of the Invention

[0008] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a rolling bearing and a rolling bearing device that make it possible to easily detect abnormal rotation of a rolling element. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a partial front view showing a rolling bearing device according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a retainer of the rolling bearing according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 3] 1 is a partial cross-sectional view showing a retainer of a rolling bearing according to a first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a development view showing a retainer of the rolling bearing according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a retainer of a rolling bearing according to a second embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 11 is a development view showing a retainer of a rolling bearing according to a second embodiment. [Figure 7]FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a retainer of a rolling bearing according to a third embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 11 is a development view showing a retainer of a rolling bearing according to a third embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a retainer of a rolling bearing according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 11 is a development view showing a retainer of a rolling bearing according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a retainer of a rolling bearing according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a retainer of a rolling bearing according to a sixth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] Non-limiting examples of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the accompanying drawings, the same or corresponding members or parts are given the same or corresponding reference symbols. In addition, duplicated descriptions of the same or corresponding members or parts will be omitted below. In addition, members or parts are not necessarily drawn to scale in the drawings. Therefore, those skilled in the art can arbitrarily determine specific dimensions by referring to the following non-limiting examples. In addition, the following examples are illustrative rather than limiting the invention. In addition, the features and combinations thereof described in the examples are not necessarily essential to the invention.

[0011] [Rolling bearing device 100 according to the first embodiment] FIG. 1 is a partial front view showing a rolling bearing device 100 according to the first embodiment. The rolling bearing device 100 shown in FIG. 1 includes a rolling bearing 10 and a strain gauge 1. The rolling bearing 10 includes an inner ring 11, an outer ring 12, a plurality of rolling elements 13, and a retainer 20. The rolling bearing 10 rotatably supports a rotating shaft. FIG. 1 shows a part of the rolling bearing device 100 as seen in the axial direction X of the rotating shaft. The axial direction X of the rotating shaft is the direction in which the axis O of the rotating shaft extends. The axis O of the rotating shaft may be the center line of the rotating shaft. The axial direction X of the rotating shaft may be referred to as the "axial direction X". FIG. 4 shows an arrow indicating the axial direction X. The radial direction of the rolling bearing 10 may be referred to as the "radial direction". The circumferential direction C1 of the rolling bearing 10 may be referred to as the "circumferential direction C1".

[0012] The inner ring 11 is ring-shaped and is disposed on the inner circumferential side in the radial direction of the rolling bearing 10. The radial direction of the rolling bearing 10 is the radial direction of the rotating shaft. The outer ring 12 is ring-shaped and is disposed on the outer circumferential side in the radial direction. The inner diameter of the outer ring 12 is larger than the outer diameter of the inner ring 11. A predetermined gap is formed between the outer circumferential surface of the inner ring 11 and the inner circumferential surface of the outer ring 12 in the radial direction.

[0013] The multiple rolling elements 13 are disposed radially between the outer peripheral surface of the inner ring 11 and the inner peripheral surface of the outer ring 12. The multiple rolling elements 13 are, for example, balls. The rolling elements 13 may also be rollers. The multiple rolling elements 13 are disposed at predetermined intervals in the circumferential direction C1 of the rolling bearing 10.

[0014] The retainer 20 holds the multiple rolling elements 13. The retainer 20 is disposed radially between the inner ring 11 and the outer ring 12. The retainer 20 has a ring shape when viewed in the axial direction.

[0015] [Retainer 20] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the retainer 20 of the rolling bearing 10. FIG. 3 is a partial cross-sectional view showing the retainer 20 of the rolling bearing 10. FIG. 4 is a development view showing the retainer 20 of the rolling bearing 10. FIG. 3 shows a cut surface perpendicular to the axis O of the retainer 20. The development view of FIG. 4 is a view of the retainer 20 as viewed from the radial outside. As shown in FIGS. 2 to 4, the retainer 20 includes a ring 21 and a plurality of rolling element holding portions 22.

[0016] The ring 21 is continuous in the circumferential direction. The ring 21 is an example of a base. The multiple rolling element holding portions 22 each hold a multiple number of rolling elements 13. The rolling element holding portions 22 are formed with openings 22a that hold the rolling elements 13. The inner peripheral surface of the openings 22a contacts the outer surfaces (outer peripheral surfaces) of the rolling elements 13.

[0017] The rolling element holding portion 22 has a pair of beams 23 and a connecting portion 24. The pair of beams 23 protrude from the ring 21 in the axial direction X. The pair of beams 23 are arranged spaced apart in the circumferential direction C1. The connecting portion 24 connects the tips of the pair of beams 23. The tips of the pair of beams 23 are ends that are farther from the ring 21 in the axial direction X. The connecting portion 24 is arranged spaced apart from the ring 21 in the axial direction X. The connecting portion 24 extends along the circumferential direction C1. The opening 22a is surrounded by the ring 21, the pair of beams 23, and the connecting portion 24.

[0018] 3 shows the PCD (circumference C13) of the multiple rolling elements 13. PCD is an abbreviation for "Pitch Circle Diameter." When viewed from the axial direction, the inner peripheral surface of the beam 23 is formed inside the PCD, and the outer peripheral surface of the beam 23 is disposed outside the PCD.

[0019] [Recess 30] A recess 30 is formed between the multiple rolling element holding portions 22 adjacent in the circumferential direction. The recess 30 is recessed in the axial direction X from the tip ends of the pair of beams 23 toward the ring 21. The recess 30 is formed by a side surface 23a and a bottom portion 30b of the beam 23. The bottom portion 30b is the surface of the side surface of the ring 21 facing the axial direction X on the rolling element holding portion 22 side.

[0020] 4, the bottom 30b of the recess 30 is disposed on the base side of the pitch circle C2 of the multiple rolling elements 13 in the axial direction X. In the axial direction X, the base side is closer to the ring 21. The pitch circle C2 may be, for example, a line connecting the center points of the multiple rolling elements 13.

[0021] Furthermore, the bottom 30b of the recess 30 may be disposed closer to the base side than the inner circumferential surface of the opening 22a of the rolling element holding portion 22 in the axial direction X.

[0022] The retainer 20 is formed from, for example, metal or resin. The material of the retainer 20 is not limited to these. The metal retainer 20 can be formed using, for example, plastic processing or cutting processing. The resin retainer 20 can be formed using, for example, injection molding. The retainer 20 may be manufactured using other processing methods or molding methods.

[0023] [Strain gauge 1] 1, the strain gauge 1 is attached to an outer peripheral surface 12a of an outer ring 12. The strain gauge 1 is a sensor capable of detecting abnormal rotation of a plurality of rolling elements 13.

[0024] For example, if there is an abnormality in the rotation of the multiple rolling elements 13, the outer ring 12 will be distorted. If an abnormality occurs in the rolling bearing 10, for example, a difference in circumferential speed may occur among the multiple rolling elements 13. The circumferential speed is the speed of the rolling elements 13 in the circumferential direction of the rolling bearing 10. If an abnormality occurs in the rolling bearing 10, the rotation periods of the multiple rolling elements 13 may differ.

[0025] When a difference in peripheral speed occurs among the multiple rolling elements 13, a local frequency change occurs in the sensor waveform, which is the output by the strain gauge 1. In the rolling bearing device 100, the local frequency change in the sensor waveform is detected, and rotation abnormality of the multiple rolling elements 13 can be detected based on this detection. Deterioration of the rolling bearing 10 includes rotation abnormality of the multiple rolling elements 13. Deterioration of the rolling bearing 10 may be deterioration caused by aging use of the rolling bearing 10. Deterioration of the rolling bearing 10 may be abnormal rotation of the rolling elements 13 caused by, for example, the ingestion of foreign matter. Deterioration of the rolling bearing 10 may be a malfunction caused by other factors.

[0026] [Deformation promotion structure] The rolling bearing 10 includes a deformation promotion structure that facilitates deformation of the rolling element holding portion 22 in the circumferential direction C1. The deformation promotion structure includes, for example, a pair of beams 23 and a recess 30 formed between the side surfaces 23a of the beams 23. In the rolling bearing 10, the recess 30 is formed, thereby weakening the rigidity of the pair of beams 23. In the rolling bearing 10, the recess 30 is formed, thereby weakening the rigidity of the beams 23, making the beams 23 more likely to deform. The rolling element holding portion 22 reliably holds the rolling elements 13 while allowing deformation of the beams 23 in the event of an abnormality. The strain gauge 1 can detect deformation of the beams 23 in the circumferential direction C1.

[0027] [Functions and Effects of the Rolling Bearing 10 According to the First Embodiment] A rolling bearing 10 according to a first embodiment includes an inner ring 11, an outer ring 12 arranged radially outside the inner ring 11, a plurality of rolling elements 13 arranged radially between the inner ring 11 and the outer ring 12, and a retainer 20 that holds the plurality of rolling elements 13. The retainer 20 has a ring 21 extending in a circumferential direction C1, and a plurality of rolling element holding portions 22 connected to the ring 21, protruding in the axial direction X, and respectively holding the plurality of rolling elements 13. The retainer 20 includes a deformation promoting structure that facilitates deformation of the plurality of rolling element holding portions 22 in the circumferential direction C1.

[0028] In such a rolling bearing 10, the deformation promoting structure is formed, so that the rolling element retaining portion 22 is easily deformed in the circumferential direction C1. Therefore, when abnormal rotation of the multiple rolling elements 13 occurs, the rolling element retaining portion 22 is easily deformed, and by detecting the deformation of the rolling element retaining portion 22, deterioration of the rolling bearing 10 can be easily detected.

[0029] In the rolling bearing 10 according to the first embodiment, the rolling element retaining portions 22 include a pair of beams 23 that protrude from the ring 21 in the axial direction X and retain the rolling elements 13, and between the rolling element retaining portions 22 adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction C1, a recess 30 is formed that is recessed in the axial direction X from the tip of the pair of beams 23 toward the ring 21. The deformation promotion structure includes the recess 30. In the axial direction X, the bottom 30b of the recess 30 is disposed closer to the ring 21 than the inner circumferential surface of the opening 22a of the rolling element retaining portion 22. The pair of beams 23 has a predetermined thickness in the radial direction, can stably retain the rolling elements 13, and is easily deformed in the circumferential direction C1.

[0030] In the rolling bearing 10 configured as described above, the recess 30 is formed as a deformation promoting structure, thereby weakening the rigidity of the pair of beams 23. The bottom 30b of the recess 30 is located close to the ring 21, so that the beam 23 is easily deformed. In other words, the beam 23 can be lengthened in the axial direction X, and the beam 23 is easily bent in the circumferential direction C1. Therefore, when abnormal rotation of the multiple rolling elements 13 occurs, the rolling element holding portion 22 is easily deformed, and by detecting the deformation of the rolling element holding portion 22, deterioration of the rolling bearing 10 can be easily detected.

[0031] [Retainer 20B according to the second embodiment] Next, the retainer 20B of the rolling bearing 10 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 5 and 6. Figure 5 is a perspective view showing the retainer 20B of the rolling bearing 10 according to the second embodiment. Figure 6 is a developed view showing the retainer 20B of the rolling bearing 10 according to the second embodiment. The rolling bearing 10 according to the second embodiment differs from the rolling bearing 10 according to the first embodiment in that it includes a retainer 20B instead of the retainer 20. In the description of the second embodiment, the same description as in the first embodiment will be omitted.

[0032] The retainer 20B includes a ring 21 and a plurality of rolling element holding portions 22B. An opening 22a for holding the rolling elements 13 is formed in the rolling element holding portion 22B.

[0033] The rolling element holding portion 22B has a pair of beams 23. The pair of beams 23 protrude from the ring 21 in the axial direction X. Tip ends of the pair of beams 23 are not connected to each other.

[0034] Such a rolling bearing 10 of the second embodiment also provides the same effects as the rolling bearing 10 of the first embodiment. In the rolling element retaining portion 22B of the retainer 20B of the second embodiment, the tips of the pair of beams 23 are not connected. Movement of the tips of the beams 23 in the circumferential direction C1 is not restricted. This makes the beams 23 prone to bending in the circumferential direction C1. Therefore, in the rolling bearing device 100, deterioration of the rolling bearing 10 can be easily detected by detecting deformation of the rolling element retaining portion 22B.

[0035] In the rolling bearing 10 according to the second embodiment, the rolling element holding portions 22B include a pair of beams 23 that protrude from the ring (base) 21 in the axial direction X and hold the rolling elements 13. Between the rolling element holding portions 22B adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction C1, a recess 30 is formed that is recessed in the axial direction X from the tip of the pair of beams 23 toward the ring 21. The deformation promotion structure according to the second embodiment includes the recess 30, and the depth L30 of the recess 30 in the axial direction X is equal to or greater than the depth L22 of the rolling element holding portions 22B. In the rolling bearing 10 according to the second embodiment, the depth L30 of the recess 30 is equal to or greater than the depth L22 of the rolling element holding portions 22B, so that the beam 23 is easily bent. Therefore, in the rolling bearing device 100, the deterioration of the rolling bearing 10 can be easily detected by detecting the deformation of the rolling element holding portion 22B. The depth L30 of the recess 30 is preferably equal to or greater than the depth L22 of the rolling element holding portion 22B, and more preferably greater than the depth L22 of the rolling element holding portion 22B. The depth L30 of the recess 30 may be the same as the depth L22 of the rolling element holding portion 22B.

[0036] [Retainer 20C according to the third embodiment] Next, the retainer 20C of the rolling bearing 10 according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 7 and 8. Fig. 7 is a perspective view showing the retainer 20C of the rolling bearing 10 according to the third embodiment. Fig. 8 is a developed view showing the retainer 20C of the rolling bearing 10 according to the third embodiment. The rolling bearing 10 according to the third embodiment differs from the rolling bearing 10 according to the second embodiment in that the retainer 20C is provided instead of the retainer 20B. In the description of the third embodiment, the same descriptions as those of the first and second embodiments will be omitted.

[0037] The retainer 20C includes a plurality of base portions 25, a plurality of rolling element holding portions 22C, and a plurality of spring portions 40. The plurality of base portions 25 are arranged in an arc shape along the circumferential direction C1.

[0038] The rolling element holding portion 22C has an opening 22a that holds the rolling element 13. The rolling element holding portion 22C has a pair of beams 23. The pair of beams 23 protrude from a base portion 25 in the axial direction X. Tip ends of the pair of beams 23 are not connected to each other.

[0039] The spring portions 40 connect adjacent base portions 25 in the circumferential direction C1. The spring portions 40 are disposed between the rolling element holding portions 22 in the circumferential direction C1. The spring portions 40 each have a pair of plate portions 41 and a connecting portion 42.

[0040] The pair of plate portions 41 protrude from the base portion 25 in the axial direction X. The pair of plate portions 41 protrude in the same direction as the pair of beams 23 in the axial direction X. The plate thickness direction of the pair of plate portions 41 is along the circumferential direction C1. The pair of plate portions 41 are disposed apart from each other in the circumferential direction C1. The plate portions 41 function as leaf springs.

[0041] The connecting portion 42 connects the tip ends of the pair of plate portions 41. The tip ends of the pair of plate portions 41 are ends that are farther from the base portion 25 in the axial direction X. The connecting portion 42 is disposed away from the base portion 25 in the axial direction X. The connecting portion 42 is disposed away from the pair of beams 23 in the circumferential direction C1.

[0042] [Recess 31] A pair of recesses 31 are formed between the rolling element holding portions 22 adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction. The recesses 31 are recessed in the axial direction X from the tip ends of the pair of beams 23 toward the base portion 25. The pair of recesses 31 are formed on both sides of the spring portion 40 in the circumferential direction C1. The recesses 31 are formed in the circumferential direction between the plate portion 41 of the spring portion 40 and the beams 23 of the rolling element holding portion 22C. The recesses 31 are surrounded by the side surface of the beam 23, the side surface of the plate portion 41, and the bottom portion 31b. The bottom portion 31b is the surface of the side surface of the base portion 25 facing the axial direction X on the rolling element holding portion 22C side.

[0043] The bottom 31b of the recess 31 is disposed closer to the base 25 than the pitch circle C2 of the multiple rolling elements 13 in the axial direction X. The bottom 31b of the recess 31 may also be disposed closer to the base 25 than the bottom of the opening 22a of the rolling element holder 22C in the axial direction X. The bottom of the opening 22a is the inner circumferential surface at a position closest to the base 25 in the axial direction X.

[0044] In the axial direction X, the depth L31 of the recess 31 is deeper than the depth L22 of the opening 22a of the rolling element holding portion 22C. The depth L31 of the recess 31 may be the length from the tip of the beam 23 to the bottom 31b in the axial direction X. The depth L22 of the opening 22a of the rolling element holding portion 22C may be the length from the tip of the beam 23 to the bottom of the opening 22a in the axial direction X.

[0045] [Recess 32] A recess 32 is formed between a pair of plate portions 41 adjacent in the circumferential direction C1. The recess 32 is an example of a second recess. The recess 32 is formed between the base portions 25 adjacent in the circumferential direction C1. The recess 32 is recessed in the axial direction X from the base portion 25 toward the connecting portion 42. The bottom portion 32b of the recess 32 is the surface on the base portion 25 side of the side surface of the connecting portion 42 facing the axial direction X.

[0046] The bottom 32b of the recess 32 may be disposed, in the axial direction X, farther from the base 25 than the pitch circle C2 of the multiple rolling elements 13. In addition, the bottom 32b of the recess 32 may be disposed, in the axial direction X, closer to the base 25 than the tip of the beam 23 of the rolling element holding portion 22C.

[0047] In the axial direction X, the depth L32 of the recess 32 may be the same as the depth L31 of the recess 31. The depth L32 of the recess 32 may be the length in the axial direction X from the side surface 25a of the base 25 to the bottom portion 32b.

[0048] [Deformation promotion structure] The retainer 20C includes a deformation promoting structure that facilitates deformation of the rolling element holding portion 22C in the circumferential direction C1. The deformation promoting structure includes, for example, a pair of beams 23, a spring portion 40 formed between the rolling element holding portion 22C, and recesses 31 and 32. In the retainer 20C, the recess 31 is formed, thereby weakening the rigidity of the pair of beams 23. In the retainer 20C, the recess 31 is formed, thereby weakening the rigidity of the beams 23, making the beams 23 more likely to deform. The rolling element holding portion 22 reliably holds the rolling elements 13 while allowing the beams 23 to deform in the event of an abnormality. The strain gauge 1 can detect deformation of the beams 23 in the circumferential direction C1.

[0049] In addition, the retainer 20C has the spring portion 40, which promotes deformation of the rolling element holding portion 22C in the circumferential direction C1. The retainer 20C has the recessed portion 32 formed between the base portions 25, which promotes deformation of the rolling element holding portion 22C in the circumferential direction C1. The retainer 20C has the spring portion 40, which allows the amount of deformation of the rolling element holding portion 22C in the circumferential direction C1 to be adjusted. For example, the amount of deformation of the rolling element holding portion 22C can be adjusted by appropriately setting the plate thickness, width (radial width), and length along the axial direction X of the plate portion 41. The amount of deformation of the rolling element holding portion 22C can be adjusted by appropriately changing the depths L31 and L32 of the recessed portions 31 and 32.

[0050] [Functions and Effects of the Rolling Bearing 10 According to the Third Embodiment] The rolling bearing 10 of the third embodiment as described above also provides the same effects as the rolling bearing 10 of the first and second embodiments.

[0051] In the rolling bearing 10, the depth L31 of the recess 31 in the axial direction X is deeper than the depth L22 of the multiple rolling element retaining portions 22C. In such a rolling bearing 10, the beam 23 of the rolling element retaining portion 22C is easily bent. Therefore, when abnormal rotation of the multiple rolling elements 13 occurs, the rolling element retaining portion 22C is easily deformed, and deterioration of the rolling bearing 10 can be easily detected by detecting the deformation of the rolling element retaining portion 22C.

[0052] Furthermore, in the rolling bearing 10, a spring portion 40 that is expandable and contractible in the circumferential direction C1 is formed between multiple rolling element retaining portions 22C that are adjacent in the circumferential direction C1. According to the rolling bearing 10 having this configuration, the rolling element retaining portions 22C can be easily deformed in the circumferential direction C1, and deterioration of the rolling bearing 10 can be easily detected.

[0053] Furthermore, in the rolling bearing 10, recesses 32 (second recesses) that are recessed in a direction away from the base 25 in the axial direction X are formed between multiple circumferentially adjacent rolling element retaining portions 22. With the rolling bearing 10 having this configuration, the recesses 32 are formed between the multiple bases 25, making it easy to deform the rolling element retaining portions 22C in the circumferential direction C1 and enabling deterioration of the rolling bearing 10 to be easily detected.

[0054] In the rolling bearing 10 according to the third embodiment, the deformation promotion structure includes a recess 31 and a recess 32. In the retainer 20C according to the third embodiment, between multiple rolling element holding portions 22C adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction C1, the recess 31 and the recess 32 that are recessed in opposite directions are formed. This makes it easy for the beam 23 to bend. Therefore, in the rolling bearing device 100, by detecting the deformation of the rolling element holding portions 22, deterioration of the rolling bearing 10 can be easily detected.

[0055] [Retainer 20D according to the fourth embodiment] Next, the retainer 20D of the rolling bearing 10 according to the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 9 and 10. Fig. 9 is a perspective view showing the retainer 20D of the rolling bearing 10 according to the fourth embodiment. Fig. 8 is a developed view showing the retainer 20D of the rolling bearing 10 according to the fourth embodiment. The rolling bearing 10 according to the fourth embodiment differs from the rolling bearing 10 according to the second embodiment in that the retainer 20D is provided instead of the retainer 20B. In the description of the fourth embodiment, the same descriptions as those of the first to third embodiments will be omitted.

[0056] The retainer 20D includes a ring 21 and a plurality of rolling element holding portions 22D. The rolling element holding portions 22D are formed with openings 22a for holding the rolling elements 13. The rolling element holding portions 22D include a pair of beams 23D. The pair of beams 23D protrude in the axial direction from the ring 21. The beams 23D are formed so as to form an arc shape when viewed from the radial direction of the retainer 20D. The pair of beams 23D are arranged in an arc shape so as to follow the outer peripheral surface of the rolling elements 13 when viewed from the radial direction of the retainer 20D.

[0057] A side surface 23d of the beam 23D is an outer surface in the circumferential direction C1. The side surface 23d is formed so as to form an arc shape when viewed in the radial direction of the retainer 20D.

[0058] [Recess 30D] A recess 30D is formed between the multiple rolling element holding portions 22D adjacent in the circumferential direction C1. The recess 30D is recessed in the axial direction X from the tip ends of the pair of beams 23D toward the ring 21. The recess 30D is surrounded by the side surface 23d and the bottom portion 30b of the beam 23D. The bottom portion 30b is one of the side surfaces of the ring 21 facing each other in the axial direction that faces the rolling element holding portion 22D.

[0059] Furthermore, the bottom 30b of the recess 30D may be disposed closer to the ring 21 in the axial direction X than the inner circumferential surface of the opening 22a of the rolling element holding portion 22D.

[0060] The recess 30D may be formed to be recessed in the circumferential direction C1 at a portion close to the ring 21. The width W11 of the recess 30D closer to the ring 21 is wider than the width W12 of the recess 30D farther from the ring 21. The widths W11 and W12 are widths along the circumferential direction C1. The width W11 is an example of a first width, and the width W12 is an example of a second width.

[0061] [Functions and Effects of the Rolling Bearing 10 According to the Fourth Embodiment] The rolling bearing 10 of the fourth embodiment as described above also provides the same effects as the rolling bearing 10 of the first embodiment.

[0062] In the rolling bearing 10, the pair of beams 23D may be formed to have an arc shape. The beams 23D are curved so as to protrude outward relative to the opening 22a. According to the rolling bearing 10 having such a structure, the length of the beams 23D can be increased, and the beams 23D are easily bent. Therefore, when abnormal rotation of the multiple rolling elements 13 occurs, the rolling element holding portion 22D is easily deformed, and deterioration of the rolling bearing 10 can be easily detected by detecting the deformation of the rolling element holding portion 22D.

[0063] In addition, in the rolling bearing 10, the width (first width) W11 of the recess 30D along the circumferential direction C1 on the side closer to the ring 21 is wider than the width (second width) W12 of the recess 30D along the circumferential direction C1 on the side farther from the ring 21. With the rolling bearing 10 having such a configuration, the beam 23D is likely to bend radially outward of the rolling element 13 due to the wider width W1 of the recess 30D closer to the ring 21. Therefore, deterioration of the rolling bearing 10 can be easily detected.

[0064] [Retainer 20E according to the fifth embodiment] Next, the retainer 20E of the rolling bearing 10 according to the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 11. Fig. 11 is a perspective view showing the retainer 20E of the rolling bearing 10 according to the fifth embodiment. The rolling bearing 10 according to the fifth embodiment differs from the rolling bearing 10 according to the fourth embodiment in that the retainer 20E is provided instead of the retainer 20D. In the description of the fifth embodiment, the same descriptions as those of the first to fourth embodiments will be omitted.

[0065] The retainer 20E includes a ring 21 and a plurality of rolling element holding portions 22E. The rolling element holding portions 22E are formed with openings 22a for holding the rolling elements 13. The rolling element holding portions 22E include a pair of beams 23E. The pair of beams 23E protrude in the axial direction from the ring 21. The beams 23E are formed to form an arc shape when viewed from the radial direction of the retainer 20E. The pair of beams 23E are arranged in an arc shape so as to follow the outer peripheral surface of the rolling elements 13 when viewed from the radial direction of the retainer 20E.

[0066] The side surface 23e of the beam 23E is an outer surface in the circumferential direction C1. The side surface 23e is formed so as to form an arc shape when viewed in the radial direction of the retainer 20E.

[0067] [Recess 30E] A recess 30E is formed between the multiple rolling element holding portions 22E adjacent in the circumferential direction C1. The recess 30E is recessed in the axial direction X from the tip ends of the pair of beams 23E toward the ring 21. The recess 30E is surrounded by the side surface 23e and the bottom portion 30b of the beam 23E.

[0068] The recess 30E may be formed to be recessed in the circumferential direction C1 at a portion close to the ring 21. The width W21 of the recess 30E closer to the ring 21 is wider than the width W22 of the recess 30E farther from the ring 21. The widths W21 and W22 are widths along the circumferential direction C1. The width W21 is an example of a first width, and the width W22 is an example of a second width. The width W22 may be a width on the pitch circle C2. The width W21 may be the maximum width of the recess 30E along the circumferential direction C1. The width W22 may be the minimum width of the recess 30E along the circumferential direction C1.

[0069] The width W21 of the recess 30E may be equal to or greater than the width W23 along the circumferential direction C1 between the pair of rolling element retaining surfaces 23b. The width W23 may be the width between the rolling element retaining surfaces 22b of a pair of beams 23E adjacent to each other with the recess 30E in between. The rolling element retaining surfaces 23b are surfaces with which the rolling elements 13 come into contact. Adjacent to each other with the recess 30E in between means that the recess 30E is formed between the pair of beams 23E. The width W23 may be the width on the pitch circle C2. The width W23 may be the minimum width among the widths between the rolling element retaining surfaces 22b. The width W23 is an example of a third width.

[0070] The rolling bearing 10 of the fifth embodiment has the same effect as the rolling bearing 10 of the first embodiment. In the retainer 20E of the fifth embodiment, the width (first width) W21 is equal to or larger than the width (third width) W23 between the rolling element holding surfaces 22b of a pair of beams 23E adjacent to each other across the recess 30E in the circumferential direction C1. This allows the length of the beams 23E to be increased, so that the beams 23E are more likely to bend. Therefore, in the rolling bearing device 100, the deterioration of the rolling bearing 10 can be easily detected by detecting the deformation of the rolling element holding portion 22E. The width W21 of the recess 30E closer to the ring 21 is preferably equal to or larger than the width W23 between the rolling element holding surfaces 22b, and more preferably is larger than the width W23. The width W21 may be the same as the width W23.

[0071] [Support part 26] The rolling element holding portion 22E has a support portion 26 that supports the pair of beams 23E. The support portion 26 protrudes from the ring 21 in the axial direction X and supports the pair of beams 23E. The pair of beams 23E branch off from the support portion 26. The retainer 20E may include such a support portion 26.

[0072] [Retainer 20F according to the sixth embodiment] Next, the retainer 20F of the rolling bearing 10 according to the sixth embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 12. Fig. 12 is a perspective view showing the retainer 20E of the rolling bearing 10 according to the sixth embodiment. The rolling bearing 10 according to the sixth embodiment differs from the rolling bearing 10 according to the fifth embodiment in that the retainer 20F is provided instead of the retainer 20E. In the description of the sixth embodiment, descriptions similar to those of the first to fifth embodiments will be omitted.

[0073] The retainer 20F includes a ring 21 and a plurality of rolling element holding portions 22F. The rolling element holding portions 22F are formed with openings 22a for holding the rolling elements 13. The rolling element holding portions 22F include a pair of beams 23F. The pair of beams 23F protrude in the axial direction from the ring 21. The beams 23F are formed to form an arc shape when viewed from the radial direction of the retainer 20F. The pair of beams 23F are arranged in an arc shape so as to follow the outer peripheral surface of the rolling elements 13 when viewed from the radial direction of the retainer 20F.

[0074] The side surface 23f of the beam 23F is an outer surface in the circumferential direction C1. The side surface 23f is formed so as to form an arc shape when viewed in the radial direction of the retainer 20F.

[0075] [Recess 30F] A recess 30F is formed between the multiple rolling element holding portions 22F adjacent in the circumferential direction C1. The recess 30F is recessed in the axial direction X from the tip ends of the pair of beams 23F toward the ring 21. The recess 30F is surrounded by the side surface 23e and the bottom portion 30b of the beam 23F.

[0076] [Support part 26B] The rolling element holding portion 22F has a pair of support portions 26B that support the pair of beams 23F. The pair of support portions 26 protrude from the ring 21 in the axial direction X and support the pair of beams 23F. The pair of beams 23F branch off from the support portion 26B. The pair of beams 23F are connected on the side closer to the support portion 26B. The pair of support portions 26B are disposed apart from each other in the circumferential direction C1. An opening 27 is formed between the pair of support portions 26B. The retainer 20F may include such support portions 26B.

[0077] The rolling bearing 10 of the sixth embodiment as described above also provides the same effects as the rolling bearing 10 of the first embodiment.

[0078] [Strain detector] The rolling bearing device 100 may be equipped with a strain detector. The strain detector analyzes the output frequency of the strain gauge 1 to detect an abnormality in the rolling bearing 10. The strain detector has a power supply capable of supplying a DC voltage E, an amplifier that amplifies the output voltage e0, an A / D converter that converts the output of the amplifier into a digital signal, and a signal processor that performs calculations on the output of the A / D converter. The signal processor can perform FFT analysis (fast Fourier transform) on the output voltage e0 of the bridge circuit. The strain detector can detect an abnormality in the rolling bearing 10 based on the results of the FFT analysis.

[0079] The rolling bearing device 100 includes the rolling bearing 10 having the retainer 20, and therefore the rolling element holding portion 22 of the retainer 20 is prone to deformation in the event of an abnormality. Therefore, by detecting the deformation of the rolling element holding portion 22 using the strain gauge 1, an abnormality in the rolling bearing 10 can be detected.

[0080] The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above in detail. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments. Various modifications, substitutions, etc. may be applied to the above-described embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, features described separately may be combined unless technical contradictions arise.

[0081] In the above embodiment, the "deformation promotion structure" is exemplified by a structure having a recess formed between the rolling element holding parts 22, or a structure having a spring part 40 formed between the rolling element holding parts 22, but the deformation promotion structure may include other structures. The deformation promotion structure may have other openings, grooves, thin parts, etc.

[0082] In the above embodiment, the strain gauge 1 is exemplified as the sensor, but the sensor is not limited to the strain gauge 1. The sensor may be any sensor capable of detecting abnormal rotation of the plurality of rolling elements 13. The sensor may be, for example, a strain sensor, an acceleration sensor, an electromagnetic induction sensor, an Anderon meter, or the like.

[0083] In addition, the position where the sensor is attached is not limited to the outer ring 12. The sensor may be attached to the inner ring 11, to a holder that holds the rolling bearing 10, or to another member. [Explanation of symbols]

[0084] 100... rolling bearing device, 1... strain gauge (sensor), 10... rolling bearing, 11... inner ring, 12... outer ring, 13... rolling element, 20, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F... retainer, 21... ring (base), 22, 22B, 22C, 22D... rolling element retaining portion, 22b... rolling element retaining surface, 23, 23D, 23E, 23F... beam, 25... base, 30... recess, 31... recess, 32... recess (second recess), 40... spring portion, C1... circumferential direction, L30... depth (depth of recess), W11, W21... width (first width), W12, W22... width (second width), W23... width (third width), X... axial direction.

Claims

1. With the inner circle, an outer ring disposed radially outward of the inner ring; a plurality of rolling elements disposed between the inner ring and the outer ring in the radial direction; a retainer for holding the plurality of rolling elements, The retainer includes: a circumferentially extending base; a plurality of rolling element holding portions connected to the base, protruding in the axial direction, and holding the plurality of rolling elements, A rolling bearing including a deformation promoting structure that facilitates deformation of the plurality of rolling element holding portions in the circumferential direction.

2. The plurality of rolling element holding portions include a pair of beams protruding from the base in the axial direction and holding the rolling elements; Between the plurality of rolling element holding portions adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction, A recess is formed in the axial direction from the tip of the pair of beams toward the base, The deformation promoting structure includes the recess, 2. The rolling bearing according to claim 1, wherein a depth of the recess in the axial direction is equal to or greater than a depth of the plurality of rolling element retaining portions.

3. The rolling bearing according to claim 2 , wherein a first width of the recess along the circumferential direction closer to the base is greater than a second width of the recess along the circumferential direction away from the base.

4. The rolling bearing according to claim 3 , wherein the first width is equal to or greater than a third width between rolling element retaining surfaces of a pair of the beams adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction with the recess therebetween.

5. Between the plurality of rolling element holding portions adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction, A spring portion capable of expanding and contracting in the circumferential direction is formed, The rolling bearing according to claim 1 , wherein the deformation promoting structure includes the spring portion.

6. Between the plurality of rolling element holding portions adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction, A second recess is formed in the axial direction such that the second recess is recessed in a direction away from the base portion, The rolling bearing according to claim 1 , wherein the deformation promoting structure includes the second recess.

7. The plurality of rolling element holding portions include a pair of beams protruding from the base in the axial direction and holding the rolling elements; Between the plurality of rolling element holding portions adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction, A recess is formed in the axial direction from the tip of the pair of beams toward the base, A second recess is formed in the axial direction such that the second recess is recessed in a direction away from the base portion, The rolling bearing according to claim 1 , wherein the deformation promoting structure includes the recess and the second recess.

8. With the inner circle, an outer ring disposed radially outward of the inner ring; a plurality of rolling elements disposed between the inner ring and the outer ring in the radial direction; a retainer for holding the plurality of rolling elements; a sensor capable of detecting abnormal rotation of the plurality of rolling elements; The retainer includes: a circumferentially extending base; a plurality of rolling element holding portions connected to the base, protruding in the axial direction, and holding the plurality of rolling elements, A rolling bearing device including a deformation promoting structure that facilitates deformation of the plurality of rolling element holding portions in the circumferential direction.

9. The rolling bearing device according to claim 8 , wherein the sensor is a strain gauge.

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