Split bearings, assemblies, and methods for manufacturing and using them.

Abstract

The present invention relates to bearings, particularly bearings with circumferentially divided side walls, and to methods for manufacturing and assembling the same. [Solution] A bearing having a bearing sidewall including a first circumferential end 340 including an uppermost region 350 and a second circumferential end 342 including a lowermost region 352, wherein the first circumferential end 340 and the second circumferential end 342 are fitted to contact each other to form an interface, at least one of the uppermost region 350 or the lowermost region 352 includes a gap to prevent contact between the uppermost region 350 of the first circumferential end 340 and the lowermost region 352 of the second circumferential end 342, the bearing sidewall includes a substrate and a low-friction material, and at least one of the first circumferential end 340 or the second circumferential end 342 includes an end face that does not include the low-friction material.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to bearings, particularly bearings split in the circumferential side wall, and methods of manufacturing and assembling the same. and assembling methods.

Background Art

[0002] Bearings are generally known to reduce friction between mating components that are movable relative to each other within an assembly. Bearings may be used, for example, in assemblies having applications in the vehicle industry for hinges, seats, steering columns, flywheels, balance shaft bearings, etc. of doors, hoods, and engine compartments, or may be used for non-automotive purposes. Conventionally, bearings often include low friction materials to provide a sliding interface between these mating components. Some bearings may have a circumferential linear axial split for ease of assembly or use. Despite the progress in the art, there is a continuing need for improved split bearings having longer life, improved effectiveness, and overall improved performance within an assembly.

[0003]

[0004] The present disclosure can be better understood by reference to the accompanying drawings, and many of its features and advantages will become apparent to those skilled in the art. [Figure 1]

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0005] Those skilled in the art will see that the elements in the figures are shown for simplification and clarity and are not necessarily to scale. I understand that it is not depicted. For example, some dimensions of elements in the figure are not shown in this invention. To help improve understanding of the embodiment, if it is exaggerated compared to other elements There is a use of the same reference numeral in different drawings to indicate similar or identical items.

[0006] The following description, combined with the drawings, is provided to aid in understanding the teachings disclosed herein. Provided. The following description will focus on specific embodiments and examples of the teaching. This focus This is provided to assist in explaining the instructions and does not imply any limitations on the scope or applicability of the instructions. It should not be interpreted in that way. However, other practices based on the teachings disclosed in this application The form can be used.

[0007] The terms “to have,” “to include,” “to possess,” or any other variation thereof are nonexclusive. It is intended to encompass all relevant features. For example, methods, articles, or lists of features. The device is not necessarily limited to those features, and may have other features not explicitly listed or otherwise. It may also include other features specific to the method, article, or apparatus. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, "or" refers to a comprehensive OR, not an exclusive OR. This refers to the following. For example, condition A or B is satisfied by either of the following: A is true (or exists If A is true and B is false (or does not exist), and A is false (or does not exist) and B is true (or exists), Both A and B are true (or exist).

[0008] Furthermore, the use of "a" or "an" indicates that the elements and components described herein are not included in this specification. This is adopted for the purpose of clarifying. This is merely for convenience and to give a general meaning to the scope of the invention. This is done for the purpose of [something]. This explanation is not meant to imply otherwise. It is read as including at least one, or more, singular forms, or vice versa. It should be done. For example, if a single embodiment is described herein, the single embodiment Alternatively, two or more embodiments may be used. If a configuration is described, a single embodiment may be used instead of two or more embodiments. good.

[0009] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein are defined in this text. It has the same meaning as generally understood by those skilled in the art to which the invention pertains. Materials, The methods and examples are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this book. Unless otherwise specified in the specification, many details regarding specific materials and processing operations are conventional. This is found in textbooks and other sources in the technical field of bearings and bearing assemblies. It can be released.

[0010] For illustrative purposes, Figure 1 includes a diagram showing the manufacturing process 10 for forming the bearing. Process 10 is a first step 12 which provides a base material and a low friction coating of the base material. The second step 14 involves coating with a coating to form a composite material, and then forming the composite material into a bearing. A third step 16, which involves forming a , may also be included.

[0011] Referring to the first step 12, the base material may be a substrate. In one embodiment, The substrate may include at least a partially metal support. According to a particular embodiment... The metal support is made of iron, copper, titanium, bronze, tin, nickel, aluminum, or their alloys. It may contain or may be a different type of metal. More specifically, the substrate is ste It may include, at least partially, steel such as stainless steel, carbon steel, or spring steel. For example, The substrate may include at least partially 301 stainless steel. Less steel may be annealed to 1 / 4 hardness, 1 / 2 hardness, 3 / 4 hardness, or full hardness. It may be present. The substrate may include a woven mesh or expanded metal grid. Yes, it is possible. Alternatively, the woven mesh can be made using one of the polymers listed below. It can be a rimmer mesh. In an alternative embodiment, the substrate is a mesh or grid. It does not have to include the 'head'.

[0012] Figure 2A shows the first step 12 and the second step 14 of the manufacturing process 10. Includes a diagram of the composite material 1000 that can be formed. For illustrative purposes, Figure 2A shows the second step 1. The layer-by-layer structure of composite material 1000 after 4 is shown. In some embodiments, composite material 1 000 is the substrate 1119 (i.e., the base material provided in the first step 12 as described above) (Material) and low friction layer 1104 (i.e., the low friction coating applied in the second step 14) It may include a composite material 10. In some embodiments, the substrate 1119 is made of composite material 10 It may extend at least partially along the length of 00. Low friction layer as shown in Figure 2A. 1104 can be bonded to at least one region of the substrate 1119. Specific Embodiments Therefore, the low-friction layer 1104 forms a low-friction interface with another surface of another component of the substrate. It can bond to the surface of 1119. The low-friction layer 1104 is bonded to another surface of another component. Bonded or laminated to the radial inner surface of the substrate 1119 so as to form a low-friction interface. This is possible. The low-friction layer 1104 forms a low-friction interface with another surface of another component. The substrate 1119 can be bonded or laminated to its radially outer surface.

[0013] The substrate 1119 is approximately 10 microns to approximately 2000 microns, for example, approximately 50 microns to approximately 1 500 microns, for example, about 100 microns to about 1000 microns, for example, about 250 microns It can have a thickness Ts of approximately 900 microns. In some embodiments, the substrate 1119 may have a thickness Ts of approximately 300 to 500 microns. Several embodiments The substrate 1119 may have a thickness Ts of approximately 800 to 950 microns. The thickness Ts of 19 may be any value between the minimum and maximum values ​​mentioned above. This will be further understood. The thickness of the substrate 1119 may be uniform, that is, substrate 11 The thickness of 19 at the first position may be equal to the thickness at the second position along it. i. The thickness of the substrate 1119 may be non-uniform, that is, the first position of the substrate 1119 The thickness at one point may differ from the thickness at a second position along that point.

[0014] In some embodiments, the low-friction layer 1104 may include a low-friction material. Abrasive materials include, for example, polyketones, polyaramids, polyphenylene sulfides, and polyethers. Polyphenylene sulfone, polyphenylene sulfone, polyamide imide, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, Luoropolymer, polybenzimidazole, polyacetal, polybutylene terephthalate Polyethylene terephthalate (PBT), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyimide (PI), polyamide Thelimide, polyether ether ketone (PEEK), polyethylene (PE), poly Lufon, polyamide (PA), polyphenylene oxide, polyphenylene sulfide (P PS), polyurethane, polyester, liquid crystal polymer (LCP), or any of these. It may include polymers such as combinations. For example, the low friction layer 1104 is made of polyethylene. Polyether ketone (PEEK), polyether ketone, polyether ketone ketone, Polyetherketones, etherketones, their derivatives, or combinations thereof, etc. Contains polyketones. In an additional example, the low-friction layer 1104 contains ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene. It is possible. In another example, the low friction layer 1104 is made of fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP ), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), pe Lufluoroalkoxy (PFA), tetrafluoroethylene, hexafluoropropylene , and vinylidene fluoride (THV) terpolymer, polychlorotrifluoroethylene (PCTFE), ethylene tetrafluoroethylene copolymer (ETFE), or eth Contains fluoropolymers including lenochlorotrifluoroethylene copolymer (ECTFE) It can be done. The low friction layer 1104 is made of lithium soap, graphite, boron nitride, and sulfur dioxide. Molybdenum disulfide, tungsten disulfide, polytetrafluoroethylene, carbon nitride, tungsten carbide Solid-based materials including gusten or diamond-like carbon, metals (e.g., A Aluminum, zinc, copper, magnesium, tin, platinum, titanium, tungsten, iron, bronze, Steel, spring steel, stainless steel), metal alloys (including the listed metals), anodized metals (listed) It may include (including metals) or any combination thereof. The rimer can be used according to a specific embodiment.

[0015] In some embodiments, the low-friction layer 1104 is made of glass, carbon, silicon, PEEK, or fragrant. Fragrance polyester, bronze, fluoropolymer, thermoplastic filler, aluminum oxide, Reamimidimide (PAI), PPS, polyphenylene sulfone (PPSO2), LCP, Aromatic polyester, molybdenum disulfide, tungsten disulfide, graphite, graphite Expanded graphite, talc, calcium fluoride, or any combination thereof It may further contain fillers. Furthermore, the fillers may include alumina, silica, and thiosulfate. Tungsten, calcium fluoride, boron nitride, mica, wollastonite, silicon carbide, crystalline nitride This includes ion, zirconia, carbon black, pigments, or any combination thereof. This can be done. The filler can be beads, fibers, powder, mesh, or any combination thereof. It may be in a blended form. The filler is at least 10% by weight based on the total weight of the low friction layer. For example, at least 15% by weight, 20% by weight, 25% by weight, or even 30% by weight. That's fine.

[0016] In one embodiment, the low friction layer 1104 is approximately 1 micron to approximately 500 microns, for example, approximately 1 0 microns to approximately 400 microns, for example, approximately 30 microns to approximately 300 microns, for example, approximately 5 Thickness T: 0 microns to approximately 250 microns FL It can have several embodiments. So, the low-friction layer 1104 has a thickness T of approximately 100 to 350 microns. FL It can have The thickness of the low-friction layer 1104 is T. FL This is any value between the minimum and maximum values ​​mentioned above. It will become clear that this is also acceptable. The thickness of the low-friction 1104 may be uniform. That is, the thickness of the low friction layer 1104 at the first position is at the second position along it. The thickness may be equal to the thickness of the low friction 1104. The thickness of the low friction 1104 may be non-uniform, i.e. The thickness of the low-friction layer 1104 at the first position is different from the thickness at the second position along it. It may be so. The low friction layer 1104 is on one of the main surfaces of the illustrated substrate 1119 It may be on top of, or on both main surfaces. The substrate 1119 is a low-friction layer 1104 may be at least partially sealed. That is, the low friction layer 1104 is or at least one area of ​​the substrate 1119 may be covered. The axial surface of the substrate 1119 has low friction It may or may not be exposed from layer 1104.

[0017] In one embodiment, the composite material 1000 also has a low friction layer 1104 on the substrate 1119 (that is, (i.e., the base material provided in the first step 12) and the low friction layer 1104 (i.e., The low-friction coating applied in step 14 of the second step can be bonded to at least It may also include another adhesive layer 1121. In another alternative embodiment, the substrate 1119 It is used as a solid component, as a woven mesh or expanded metal grid, and as an adhesive layer. It may be embedded in at least one of 1121 or the low friction layer 1104.

[0018] The adhesive layer 1121 is made of epoxy resin, polyimide resin, and polyether / polyamide copolymer. Mer, ethylene vinyl acetate, ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE), ET FE copolymer, perfluoroalkoxy (PFA), or any combination thereof. This may include, but is not limited to, any known adhesive material common to bearing technology. To cut. Furthermore, adhesives are -C=O, -COR, -COH, -COOH, -COOR -CF2=CF-OR, or at least one selected from any combination thereof. It can contain one functional group, where R is a cyclic or linear group containing 1 to 20 carbon atoms. It is an organic group. Furthermore, the adhesive may contain copolymers. In one embodiment, The tomelt adhesive can have a melting temperature of 250°C or less, for example, 220°C or less. In another embodiment, the adhesive may decompose at temperatures above 200°C, for example, above 220°C. In one embodiment, the melting temperature of the hot melt adhesive is higher than 250°C, but not exceeding 300°C. It can be even more expensive.

[0019] In one embodiment, the adhesive layer 1121 is approximately 1 micron to approximately 100 microns, for example, approximately 5 microns. Chron ~ approximately 80 microns, for example, approximately 10 microns ~ approximately 50 microns, for example, approximately 20 microns Hmm, approximately 40 microns thick T AL It can have adhesive. In some embodiments, Layer 1121 has a thickness of approximately 15-60 microns. AL It may have several embodiments. So, the adhesive layer 1121 has a thickness of approximately 30 to 100 microns T. AL It may have an adhesive layer. Thickness T of 1121 AL This can be any value between the minimum and maximum values ​​mentioned above. This will be further understood. The thickness of the adhesive layer 1121 may be uniform, that is, The thickness of the adhesive layer 1121 at the first position is equal to the thickness at the second position along it. It is also acceptable for the thickness of the adhesive layer 1121 to be uneven, that is, the thickness of the adhesive layer 112 The thickness of 1 at the first position may be different from the thickness at the second position along it.

[0020] Figure 2B includes a diagram of another embodiment. For illustrative purposes, Figure 2B shows the second step 14 after The layer-by-layer structure of the composite material 1001 is shown. According to this particular embodiment, the composite material 10 01 is the composite material 1001 which has corrosion protection layers 1704, 1705, 1708 and contact The adhesion promoter layer 1127 and the substrate 1119 (i.e., the base provided in the first step 12) (Material) and low friction layer 1104 (i.e., the low friction coating applied in the second step 14) An epoxy layer 1129 that can be bonded to a coating, and a corrosion-resistant layer that can include Even if it is similar to composite material 1000 in Figure 2A, except that it can contain 1125 good.

[0021] Before processing, the substrate 1119 is coated with a corrosion protection layer 1704 to prevent corrosion of the substrate 1119. , it may be coated with 1705. Furthermore, a corrosion protection layer 1708 may be applied over layer 1704. It can be applied to the following. Each of layers 1704, 1705, and 1708 is approximately 1 to 50 microns. For example, it can have a thickness of approximately 7 to 15 microns. Layers 1704 and 1705 are aluminum Aluminum, zinc, magnesium, nickel, tin, or any alloy thereof, zinc Contains phosphate, iron, manganese, or any combination thereof, or a nanoceramic layer. Furthermore, layers 1704 and 1705 contain functional silanes and nanoscale silanes. Base primer, hydrolyzed silane, organosilane adhesion promoter, solvent / water-based silane Lamp primer, chlorinated polyolefin, passivated surface, commercially available zinc (mechanical / galvanic (including ) or zinc-nickel coating, or any combination thereof. This can be done. Layer 1708 consists of a functional silane, a nanoscale silane-based primer, and hydrolysis. Decomposed silanes, organosilane adhesion promoters, solvent / water-based silane primers, or whatever A chromium-based, zirconium-based, or titanium-based chemical conversion coating of any kind, Furthermore, it may include phosphorylation. The corrosion protection layers 1704, 1706, and 1708 are treated It can be removed or retained during processing.

[0022] As described above, the composite material 1001 may further include a corrosion-resistant layer 1125. Layer 1125 is approximately 1 to 50 microns, for example approximately 5 to 20 microns, and for example approximately 7 to 1 It can have a thickness of 5 microns. The corrosion-resistant layer 1125 is bonded to the adhesion promoter layer 1127 and It may include an epoxy layer 1129. The adhesion promoter layer 1127 may contain zinc, iron, and manganese. Includes phosphates of tin, rhodium, or any combination thereof, or nanoceramic layers. This is possible. The adhesion promoter layer 1127 is a functional silane, nanoscale silane-based layer. Hydrolyzed silanes, organosilane adhesion promoters, solvent / water-based silane primers, salts Modified polyolefin, passivated surface, commercially available zinc (mechanical / galvanic) or zinc It may include nickel coating, or any combination thereof. Epoxy Layer 1129 consists of thermosetting epoxy, UV-curing epoxy, IR-curing epoxy, and electron beam curing epoxy. It can be epoxy, radiation-cured epoxy, or air-cured epoxy. Furthermore, The epoxy layer 1129 consists of polyglycidyl ether, diglycidyl ether, and bisphenol. A, bisphenol F, oxirane, oxacyclopropane, ethylene oxide, 1, 2-epoxypropane, 2-methyloxirane, 9,10-epoxy-9,10-dihydro anthracene, or any combination thereof. The epoxy layer 11 29 can further contain a curing agent. The curing agent can be an amine, an acid anhydride, a phenol novolak poly[N-(4-hydroxyphenyl)maleimide] (PHPMI) and other phenol novolak curing agents, resole phenol formaldehyde, aliphatic amine compounds, polycarbonic anhydride, polyacrylate, isocyanate, encapsulated polyisocyanate, boron trifluoride amine complex, chromium-based curing agent, polyamide, or any combination thereof can be included. Generally, the acid anhydride can follow the formula R-C=O-O-C=O-R’, where R can be C X H Y X Z A U as described above. The amine can be an aliphatic amine such as monoethyl amine, diethylenetriamine, triethylenetetramine, an alicyclic amine, an aromatic amine such as a cycloaliphatic amine, a cycloaliphatic amine, an amidoamine, polyamide, dicyandiamide, an imidazole derivative, etc., or any combination thereof can be included. Generally, the amine can be a primary amine, a secondary amine, or a tertiary amine following the formula R1R2R3N, where R can be C X H Y X Z A U as described above. In one embodiment, the epoxy layer 1129 can contain a filler for improving conductivity, for example, carbon filler, carbon fiber, carbon particles, graphite, bronze, aluminum, and so on. Metal fillers such as other metals and their alloys, metal-coated carbon fillers, metal-coated polymers It may include a filler, or any combination thereof. Conductive fillers are This allows current to pass through the epoxy coating, and conductive fillers To improve the conductivity of coated bearings compared to coated bearings that do not contain coatings. It is possible.

[0023] Figure 2C includes a diagram of another embodiment. For illustrative purposes, Figure 2C shows the second step 14 after The layer-by-layer structure of the composite material 1002 is shown. According to this particular embodiment, the composite material 10 02 is the composite material 1002 provided in the first step 12, which is on the substrate 1119 (i.e., provided in the first step 12). A base material (which is bonded to the substrate by multiple adhesive layers 1121, 1121') The low friction layers 1104, 1104' (i.e., the low friction layers applied in the second step 14) Except for the fact that it may include (coating), the composite material 1000 in Figure 2A and the composite in Figure 2B It may be similar to composite material 1001. The intervening layer of composite material 1001 shown in Figure 2B (i.e., Corrosion protection layer 1704, 1705, 1708, or adhesion promoter layer 1127 and / or Either the epoxy layer 1129 or the corrosion-resistant layer 1125 may be in any orientation or It will be understood that the layer may be included between any of the layers shown in Figure 2C.

[0024] In one embodiment, the composite materials 1000, 1001, and 1002 are in the range of 0.1 mm to 5 mm. A range, for example, 0.2mm to 3mm, or even 0.3mm to 1.5mm. Thickness T SW It can have the following thickness T of composite materials 1000, 1001, and 1002. SW It is further understood that this can be any value between the minimum and maximum values ​​mentioned above. Let's do it. The thickness T of composite materials 1000, 1001, and 1002. SW It may be uniform, That is, the thickness of the composite materials 1000, 1001, and 1002 at the first position is along The thickness at the second position may be equal to the thickness at the second position. Composite materials 1000, 1001, 1002 Thickness T SW The composite material may be non-uniform, that is, composite material 1000, 1001, 100 Even if the thickness at the first position of 2 is different from the thickness at the second position along it good.

[0025] In one embodiment, under step 14 of Figure 1, the composite materials 1000, 1001, 1 described above are used. Each of the layers on 002 is arranged in a roll shape, peeled off from there and joined to one another. They can be joined. The joining is done under pressure, and in some cases at high temperatures (e.g., by pressing), with adhesive. This can be done using the composite material layers 1000, 1001, and 1002 as described above. Either way, they may be stacked together so that they overlap each other at least partially. Even if the low-friction layers 1104 and 1104' are laminated on the surface of the substrate 1119 or another intervening layer, Good. The sheet may be formed on a substrate 1119 having radial inner and outer surfaces. The low-friction layers 1104 and 1104' are located on the radial inner and outer surfaces of the substrate 1119, at least The substrate 1119 is positioned such that one side can be located within the low friction layers 1104, 1104'. It can be enclosed.

[0026] Referring now to the third step 16 of the manufacturing process 10 shown in Figure 1, a specific implementation According to the description, forming composite materials 1000, 1001, and 1002 in the bearing provides a low friction layer. Using fusion adhesives 1121, 1121' to fuse layers 1104, 1104' or any intervening layer This may include bonding to the substrate 1119 to form a laminate. The laminate is shaped to form a bearing. It can be cut into blanks that can be made. Cutting the laminate into a blank is done by This may include the use of tamping, pressing, punching, sawing, deep drawing, or other mechanical methods. It may be processed. By cutting the laminate into blanks, the exposed area of ​​the substrate 1119 can be modified. It is possible to form a cut edge including the blank. The blank is rolled and flanged into a laminate. The bearing can be formed by molding and shaping it to create a bearing of the desired form. The formation of bearings from blanks includes the use of stamping, pressing, punching, sawing, and deep drawing. The blank may also be machined in a different way. In some embodiments, the blank The edges may be bent inward in the flange during secondary action. The bearing is a single unit Alternatively, it may be formed as a single material piece.

[0027] For illustrative purposes, Figure 3A shows the composite material 10 that may initially exist as a blank, as described above. Manufactured by rolling pieces of the appropriate dimensions 00, 1001, and 1002. The shape of the bearing (indicated as 31 overall) is shown. The bearing 31 is axial with respect to the central axis 3000. It can extend in that direction. That is, the central axis 3000 is along the length of the bearing 31. It may extend in the longitudinal direction. The side wall 308 has an inner radial end or edge 307 and an outer It has radial ends or edges 309. The side wall 308 has an inner surface 312 and an outer surface 314 It can have the following. In some embodiments, the side wall 308 is shown in Figures 2A to 2C. Thus, the substrate 1119 and at least one low of the composite materials 1000, 1001, 1002 The friction layer 1104 may include, as described above, the low friction material 1104 is a bearing. It can essentially cover the entirety of at least one of the inner surface 312 or the outer surface 314 of 31. .

[0028] The bearing 31 has a first axial end or edge 303 and a second axial end or edge 3 The body 310 may be a substantially cylindrical body that can form an annular shape having 05. It can be rolled to include the side wall 308. When used herein, "abbreviated" "Cylindrical" means that when placed in a best-fit cylinder having a rotating body around an axis, 15% or less at any position, 10% or less at any position, 5% or less at any position Less than 4% at any position, less than 3% at any position, less than 2% at any position, or less than 1% at any position. This refers to a shape that deviates from the best-fitting cylinder only at the bottom. In one embodiment, "approximately cylindrical" means internal The roughly cylindrical body assembled between the side components and the outer components, i.e., in its installed state. 310 can refer to. In another embodiment, “approximately cylindrical” refers to an inner component and an outer component. This can refer to the roughly cylindrical main body 310 before assembly with its constituent elements, i.e., in an uninstalled state. In certain embodiments, the substantially cylindrical side wall has two longitudinally flat ends. The side walls may be cylindrical, having a shape that corresponds to rotation around the axis. In certain embodiments, The cylindrical sidewalls are nominal, for example, those that occur during typical machining and manufacturing processes. The surface may have some roughness.

[0029] Furthermore, referring to Figure 3A, as described above, the blank is rolled to form an annular shape. A bearing side wall 308 can be formed which can include a substantially cylindrical body 310. It is possible. Rolling is performed by bearing 31, side wall 308, and / or central axis 3000 A first circumferential end 340 and a second circumferential end within a substantially cylindrical body 310 around 342 can be formed. The first circumferential end 340 may have a first end face. The second circumferential end 342 may have a second end face. The end faces of the 0 and second circumferential ends 342 extend axially downward along the bearing side wall 308. Contacting each other to form an interface 344 which can form an axial division portion 346 It may be adapted in any nonlinear way with respect to the axis of symmetry 3000 of the bearing 31 and Alternatively, an axial division 346 extending diagonally (for example, diagonally) is also possible. In this configuration, the axial division portion 346 is not connected in order to facilitate the assembly of the bearing 31. It can be left as is. In some specific embodiments, the axial division portion 346 is other The closing bearing 31 can be formed by welding or other means. The bearing 31 may include a bore 335. The bore 335 is located along the axial length of the bearing 31. It may extend and be adapted to connect to another component of the assembly.

[0030] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 3A, the bearing 31 has a first axial end 303 It can have a total length L from the second axial end 305, where L is ≥ 0.5 mm, ≥ Length can be 1mm, ≥2mm, ≥5mm, ≥10mm, or ≥50mm. L is ≤250mm, ≤150mm, ≤100mm, or ≤50mm, etc., ≤500mm m can be used. In some embodiments, the bearing 31 has a total length L of approximately 3 to 50 mm. It may have the following. The bearing 31 is within the range between either the minimum or maximum value described above. It will be understood that the bearing 31 can have an overall length L that can be It can have a total length L that can be any value between the minimum and maximum values. This will become even clearer.

[0031] For illustrative purposes, Figure 3B shows the composite material 10 that may initially exist as a blank, as described above. Roll and flange pieces of the appropriate dimensions 00, 1001, and 1002. The shape of the bearing (indicated by 32 overall) that can be manufactured by the method shown in Figure 3A is shown in Figure 3B. It can include all aspects of construction and design, and for the sake of brevity, the corresponding symbols remain the same. Yes, it refers to the same structure as that in Figure 3A. Figure 3B shows that the bearing 32 in Figure 3B has an axial cross-section It may differ from Figure 3A in that it may have an annular shape that is essentially L-shaped. In other words, the bearing 32 has an L-shaped bearing cross-section that extends radially and axially. Other axial cross-sectional shapes of the bearing are also possible. For example, bearing 32 has a C-shaped bearing cross-section. It may have. In some embodiments, the L-shaped bearing 32 strikes the formed bearing 32. This may be achieved by a deep drawing process that includes punching.

[0032] In some embodiments, the bearing side wall 308 extends to at least one flange 322 It can be included in. The flange 322 may be substantially annular around the central axis 3000. The flange 322 is less than the first axial end 303 or the second axial end 305. Both may protrude radially outward from one side. The flange 322 has an inner radial end 30 It may extend radially outward from 7 to the outer radial end 309. Alternatively, a flange 322 extends radially from the outer radial end 309 to the radially inner end 307 (not shown) It may extend inward. In some embodiments, the flange 322 is on the outside of the bearing 32. A substantially flat outermost axial surface can be formed at the radial end 309. In this embodiment, the flange 322 is located on the outermost axial side of the outer radial end 309 of the bearing 32. A low-friction layer 1104 or low-friction material may be formed on the opposing surface. In the configuration, the outer radial end 309 is measured radially from the central axis 3000. The outer radius OR of the bearing 32 can be formed. In some embodiments, the inner radius The directional end 307 is the inner radius of the bearing 32 when measured radially from the central axis 3000. An IR can be formed. In other words, the radial width W of the flange 322. RF teeth, It can also be the distance calculated from the difference between the outer radius OR and the inner radius IR. Several implementations In this configuration, the flange 322 may include an axial opening 326. The axial opening 326 is This allows for the provision of a hole or space in the flange 322. In some embodiments, The lunge 322 has multiple axial openings that provide a segmented flange (not shown). It may include part 326. In certain embodiments, the axial opening 326 is a substantially cylindrical body It can be made continuous with the axial division portion 346 within 310.

[0033] In some embodiments, at least one flange 322 is substantially cylindrical of the bearing 32. The axial ends 303 and 305 of the main body 310 may be continuous with and extend from there. The flange 322 is positioned to protrude perpendicularly to the roughly cylindrical body 310. In other embodiments, the flange 322 is not perpendicular to the substantially cylindrical body 310. They may be positioned to protrude from the intersection. In some embodiments, this is best shown in Figure 3B. As shown, the flange 322 is a substantially cylindrical body 310 (and central axis 3000) An angle θ may be formed. The angle θ may be in the range of at least 0° to 180°. The angle θ can be 45° or greater, 55° or greater, or 85° or greater, even if it is 30° or greater. The angle Θ is less than or equal to 135°, less than or equal to 120°, less than or equal to 90°, or less than or equal to 60°, etc. It may be less than 0°. In some specific embodiments, the angle θ is between 60° and 120°. It may be within the range of [a certain limit].

[0034] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 3B, the bearing 32 is located inward from the central axis 3000. The overall inner radius IR can be such that it extends to the side radial end 306, and IR is ≥ 5 mm , such as ≥10mm, ≥15mm, ≥20mm, or ≥50mm, and ≥1mm and series Yes, it is possible. The inner radius IR is ≤20mm, ≤15mm, ≤10mm, ≤5mm, or ≤1 The inner radius IR can be ≤50mm, such as in mm. It may be modified. In some embodiments, the bearing 32 has an overall inner radius of about 2 to 20 mm. It may have an IR. The bearing 32 shall be within the range between either the minimum or maximum value described above. It will be understood that the bearing 32 can have an overall inner radius IR. The total inner radius I can be any value between the minimum and maximum values ​​mentioned above. It will become clearer that R can be possessed.

[0035] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 3B, the bearing 32 is located off the central axis 3000. The overall outer radius OR can be such that the lateral radial end 307 is ≥ 5 mm. , such as ≥10mm, ≥20mm, ≥40mm, or ≥70mm, with a minimum of ≥1.5mm. This is possible. The outer radius OR is ≤50mm, ≤30mm, ≤20mm, ≤10mm, and The radius can be ≤3mm, ≤80mm, etc. The overall outer radius OR is the circle of bearing 32. It may vary along the circumference. In some embodiments, the bearing 32 has a total length of about 3 to 30 mm. The body may have an outer radius OR. The bearing 32 is between either the minimum or maximum value described above. It will be understood that the total outer radius OR can be within the range. The bearing 32 can be any value between the minimum and maximum values ​​described above. It will be further understood that it can have an outer radius OR. Furthermore, as mentioned above The radial width W of flange 322 RF This is the difference in distance between the outer radius OR and the inner radius IR. Distance from is also acceptable.

[0036] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 3B, the flange 322 of the bearing 32 is approximately 0. 3mm to approximately 10mm, for example, approximately 0.5mm to approximately 8mm, for example, approximately 1mm to approximately 5mm, for example The thickness is approximately 1.5mm to 4mm. RF It can have. In some embodiments, it can have. The flange 322 has a thickness of approximately 0.3 to 2 mm. RF It can have a flange 3. 22 can be a thickness T which is within the range between either the minimum or maximum value mentioned above. RFof It will be understood that it can have. Flange 322 has the minimum and maximum values ​​mentioned above. Thickness T can be any value between the two. RF It can also be possible to have Let's try to understand. The thickness T of flange 322. RF This may vary around the circumference of the bearing 32. This will also be understood.

[0037] For illustrative purposes, Figure 3C shows the composite material 10 that may initially exist as a blank, as described above. Roll and flange pieces of the appropriate dimensions 00, 1001, and 1002. The shape of the bearing (indicated by 33 overall) that can be manufactured by the above is shown. Figure 3C is similar to Figure 3A. This may include all of the structure and design of Figure 3B, and for brevity, the corresponding symbols are used. This remains the same and refers to the same structure as in Figures 3A and 3B. Figure 3C shows the axis of Figure 3C. The receiver 33 is formed by rolling the tapered portion and flange the end. The figure may include a bearing side wall 308 having a tapered cylindrical portion that allows for this, It may be different from 3B.

[0038] For illustrative purposes, Figure 3D shows the composite material 10 that may initially exist as a blank, as described above. Roll and flange pieces of the appropriate dimensions 00, 1001, and 1002. Figure 3D shows the shape of a bearing (indicated by 34 overall) that can be manufactured by [the specified method]. It can include all aspects of the structure and design of 3C, and for simplicity, the corresponding symbols are the same. This refers to the same structure as those in Figures 3A to 3C. Figure 3D shows the bearing 34 in Figure 3D. , a shaft pin mounted via a flanged bearing 34 is housed in a housing It may differ from Figure 3B in that it shows the attached flanged bearing 34. In Figure 3D, the flanged bearing 34 is located at the axial division portion 346 of the roughly cylindrical body 310. It can have a continuous axial opening 326.

[0039] For illustrative purposes, Figure 3E shows the composite material 10 that may initially exist as a blank, as described above. Roll and flange pieces of the appropriate dimensions 00, 1001, and 1002. Figure 3E shows the shape of a bearing (indicated by 35 overall) that can be manufactured by the following methods. It can include all 3D structures and designs, and for simplicity, the corresponding symbols are the same. This refers to the same structure as those in Figures 3A to 3D. Figure 3E shows the bearing 35 in Figure 3E. , inside a housing having a shaft pin mounted via flanged bearings 35 on both sides It differs from Figure 3B in that it shows a double-flanged bearing 35 attached to both sides. i. As shown in Figure 3E, the radial flanges 322, 322' are the first axial direction of the bearing 35. It can be positioned at both the outward end 303 and the second axial end 305.

[0040] For illustrative purposes, Figures 3F to 3G are composites that may initially exist as blanks, as described above. By rolling pieces of material 1000, 1001, and 1002 of the appropriate dimensions Enlarged perspective view and enlarged side view of the possible bearing shapes (shown as 36 overall) are shown, respectively. Figures 3F to 3G include all of the structure and design of Figures 3A and 3B. For the sake of brevity, the corresponding symbols remain the same, and are identical to those in Figures 3A and 3B. It refers to a specific structure.

[0041] Referring to Figures 3F to 3G, the first circumferential end 340 and the second circumferential end of the bearing 36 The directional end portion 342 forms an axial division portion 346 that extends axially along the bearing side wall 308. They may be fitted to contact each other in order to form an interface 344. The first circumferential end 340 may form the uppermost region 350. The second circumferential end 342 may form the lowest point region 352. In some embodiments, the first circumferential direction The end portion 340 may have a first axial leg portion 340a and a second axial leg portion 340b. In some embodiments, the second circumferential end portion 342 is the first axial leg portion 342a and may have a second axial leg portion 342b. In some embodiments, the first circumference The first axial leg portion 340a of the directional end portion 340 is the first axial portion of the second circumferential end portion 342 The second axial leg portion 340b of the first circumferential end portion 340 is paired with the forward leg portion 342a, The second circumferential end portion 342 contacts the second axial leg portion 342b in a pair, forming a V-shaped boundary. To form a surface.

[0042] In some embodiments, as best shown in Figure 3G, the uppermost region 350 is an angle A general angle α can be formed, defined as degrees ≤ 180°, where α is at least 30°. For example, at least 60°, for example, at least 90°, for example, at least 120°, or For example, it is at least 150°. The uppermost region 350 is defined as an angle ≤ 180°. A general angle α can be formed where α is 180° or less, for example 120° or less, for example 90° It is less than or equal to a degree, for example, less than or equal to 60°, or for example, less than or equal to 45°.

[0043] In some embodiments, at least one of the uppermost region 350 or the lowermost region 352 This refers to the uppermost region 350 of the first circumferential end 340 and the lowermost point of the second circumferential end 342. A gap 354 can be provided to prevent contact with region 352. (See Figure 3F) As shown in Figure 3G, the gap 354 may be located within the lowest point region 352. 354 may be located within the uppermost region 350. In one embodiment, the gap 354 is located within the gap 35 4 completely forms a gap 356 with the side wall 308, and the first circumferential end 340 and the second circle This allows for the addition of additional space to the axial division portion 346 between the circumferential end portion 342 and the circumferential end portion 342. The overall thickness T SW It can extend to 100% of the extent. In some embodiments, The gap 356 has a first circumferential end and a second circumferential end that are in the radial direction This prevents them from coming into contact with each other along the entire thickness.

[0044] For illustrative purposes, Figure 3H shows the composite material 10 that may initially exist as a blank, as described above. Roll and flange pieces of the appropriate dimensions 00, 1001, and 1002. Figures 3F-3F show enlarged perspective views of the bearing shapes (shown as 37 overall) that can be manufactured by [the specified method]. Figure 3G can include all of the structure and design from Figures 3A to 3B, and for brevity, The corresponding symbols remain the same and refer to the same structure as those in Figures 3A and 3B. In Figure 3H, As shown, the divided portion is included in the flange 322 to form different interface 344 shapes. This is acceptable. Many different shapes of interface 344 are possible.

[0045] For illustrative purposes, Figure 3I shows the composite material 10 that may initially exist as a blank, as described above. Manufactured by rolling pieces of the appropriate dimensions 00, 1001, and 1002. Obtaining an enlarged view of the bearing (indicated as 38 overall) in a cross-section of a plane parallel to the central axis 3000. Figures are shown. Figure 3I shows all of the structure and design of Figures 3A-3B and Figures 3F-3G. It can be included, and for the sake of brevity, the corresponding symbols remain the same, as in Figures 3A to 3B. This refers to the same structure as those in Figures 3F to 3G. As shown in Figure 3I, the gap 356 is Different shapes of interface 344 may be formed. Many different shapes of interface 344 are possible. The gap 356 is the circumferential cross-section of the bearing 38, including polygons, ovals, circles, and semicircles. It may have a shape, or it may be of a different type.

[0046] As shown in Figure 3I, the gap 356 includes polygons, ovals, circles, and semicircles, bearings It may have 38 circumferential cross-sectional shapes, or it may be of a different type. In this embodiment, the gap 356 is formed within the axial division portion 346. Gap length L can be defined as the axial projection of the length. G It may have several implementation forms In state, L G <0.5L, for example L G <0.25L, for example L G <0.15L, for example L G <0.10L, or for example, L G It is <0.05L.

[0047] For illustrative purposes, Figure 3J shows the composite material 10 that may initially exist as a blank, as described above. Manufactured by rolling pieces of the appropriate dimensions 00, 1001, and 1002. Obtaining an enlarged view of the bearing (indicated as 39 overall) in a cross-section of a plane parallel to the central axis 3000. Figures are shown. Figure 3J shows all of the structure and design of Figures 3A-3B and Figures 3F-3I. It can be included, and for the sake of brevity, the corresponding symbols remain the same, as in Figures 3A to 3B. This refers to the same structure as those in Figures 3F to 3I. As shown in Figure 3J, the first circumferential end The first axial leg portion 340a of 340 is the first axial leg portion 3 of the second circumferential end portion 342 Paired with 42a, the second axial leg portion 340b of the first circumferential end portion 340 is the second circle The second axial leg portion 342b of the circumferential end portion 342 contacts the C-shaped interface 344. and further different interface 344 shapes are formed. Many different interface 344 shapes are possible. It is Noh.

[0048] For illustrative purposes, Figure 3K shows the composite material 10 that may initially exist as a blank, as described above. Manufactured by rolling pieces of the appropriate dimensions 00, 1001, and 1002. Obtained: Magnification of the bearing (shown as 40 overall) in a cross-section of a plane parallel to the central axis 3000. Figures are shown. Figure 3K shows all of the structure and design of Figures 3A-3B and Figures 3F-3J. It can be included, and for the sake of brevity, the corresponding symbols remain the same, as in Figures 3A to 3B. This refers to the same structure as those in Figures 3F to 3J. As shown in Figure 3K, the first circumferential end 340 has an end face 341, and the second circumferential end may have an end face 343. The end faces 341 and 343 of the circumferential end 340 and the second circumferential end 342 are the bearing side wall 3 An interface 344 that can form an axial division portion 346 extending downward in the axial direction of 08 They may be fitted to come into contact with each other in order to form. As described above, from the blank The formation of the bearing 40 may include the use of stamping, pressing, punching, sawing, and deep drawing. Alternatively, it may be machined in a different way. As best shown in Figure 3K, the first At least one end face 341 of the circumferential end 340 or the second circumferential end 342, 343 may include multiple regions as a result of the formation process. First circumferential end 3 The end faces 341, 343 of 40 or the second circumferential end 342 include a deformation zone 362. It may have end faces 341 and 343. The deformation zone 362 has a thickness T D It can have The end faces 341 and 343 of the first circumferential end 340 or the second circumferential end 342 are It may have end faces 341, 343 including the cutting zone 364. The cutting zone 364 is thick SaT C It may have a first circumferential end 340 or a second circumferential end 34 The end faces 341 and 343 of 2 may include a crushing zone 366. The crushing zone 366 has a thickness T F It can have.

[0049] In some embodiments, the thickness T of the deformation zone 362 D The total thickness T of the side wall 308 SW At least 5% of the total thickness T of the side wall 308, for example. SW at least 1% of, for example The total thickness T of the side wall 308 SW At least 5% of the total thickness T of the side wall 308, for example. SW At least 10% of the total thickness T of the side wall 308, for example. SW at least 20% Anything is fine.

[0050] In some embodiments, the thickness T of the cutting zone 364 C The total thickness T of the side wall 308 SW At least 5% of the total thickness T of the side wall 308, for example. SW At least 10% of, for example The total thickness T of the side wall 308 SW At least 15% of the total thickness T of the side wall 308, for example. SW At least 20% of the total thickness T of the side wall 308, for example. SW at least 25% of, for example For example, the overall thickness T of the side wall 308 SW at least 30% of, or for example, the entire side wall 308 Thickness T SW It could also be at least 40% of that.

[0051] In some embodiments, the thickness T of the crushing zone 366 F The total thickness T of the side wall 308 SW At least 5% of the total thickness T of the side wall 308, for example. SW At least 10% of, for example The total thickness T of the side wall 308 SW At least 20% of the total thickness T of the side wall 308, for example. SW At least 30% of the total thickness T of the side wall 308, for example. SW at least 40% of, for example For example, the overall thickness T of the side wall 308 SW at least 50% of, or for example, the entire side wall 308 Thickness T SW It could be at least 60% of that, for example.

[0052] As described above, the bearing 40 is made of composite material 1 which may initially exist as a blank as described above. Manufactured by rolling pieces of the appropriate dimensions: 000, 1001, 1002. The bearing 40 has side walls 308 that form an inner surface 312 and an outer surface 314. The low friction layer 1104 or low friction material 1104 can be made on the inner surface 312 or outer surface 3 Essentially covers the entirety of at least one of 14. Furthermore, the end face of the first circumferential end 340 341 does not have to include the low friction layer 1104 or the low friction material 1104. Furthermore, The end face 343 of the circumferential end 342 of part 2 is a low friction layer 1104 or low friction material 1104. It does not have to be included. Furthermore, the first circumferential end 340 and the second circumferential end 3 The end faces 341 and 343 of 42 do not include the low friction layer 1104 or the low friction material 1104. Furthermore, the low-friction layer 1104 or low-friction material 1104 may be on the outer surface 314 or the inner surface. At least one of 312 and at least one of the first or second circumferential ends 340, 342 The first and second circumferences are designed so that there is no visible exposed substrate 1119 at the intersection with the other side. The directional ends 340 and 342 may extend to the end faces 341 and 343. In further embodiments... Referring back to Figure 3A, the bearing 31 has a first axial edge 303 and a second axial It may have a side wall 308 having an outward edge portion 305, and a first axial edge portion 303 or the At least one of the axial edges 305 of 2 is the first circumferential end 340 or the second circumferential end With respect to the directional end 342, in order to produce the same result as described above in Figure 3K, punch out The low friction layer 1104 or low friction material 1104 is not included due to cutting.

[0053] For illustrative purposes, Figures 3L to 3O show the composites that may initially exist as blanks, as described above. By rolling pieces of material 1000, 1001, and 1002 of the appropriate dimensions Bearings can be manufactured in a plane cross-section parallel to the central axis 3000 (each totaling 4 An enlarged side view of (shown in 1-44) is shown. As shown in Figures 3L and 3O, the first circumferential The outward end portion 340 is located at the first axial leg portion 340a or the second axial leg portion 340b. An angle β1 can be formed with the first axial end 303 of the roughly cylindrical body 310. The angle β1 may be less than 90°. The angle β1 may be 15° or greater, 25° or greater, or 4 It may be 5° or more. The angle β1 is 90° or less, for example, 85° or less. It may be 75° or less, 60° or less, or 45° or less. Some specific embodiments Therefore, the angle β1 may be within the range of 15° to 60°. Second circumferential end 342 In the first axial leg portion 342a or the second axial leg portion 342b, the substantially cylindrical main An angle β2 can be formed with the first axial end 303 of the body 310. The angle β2 is 1 It can be 5° or more, 25° or more, or 45° or more, or any angle greater than 5°. The angle β2 is Even if it is less than 90°, for example, 85° or less, 75° or less, 60° or less, or 45° or less Good. In some specific embodiments, the angle β2 may be within the range of 15° to 60°. Good. In some embodiments, as best shown in Figure 3L, β1 is equal to β2. They may be identical or substantially equal. In some embodiments, this is best illustrated in Figure 3O. As stated, β1 may be substantially different from β2. β1 must be greater than or equal to β2. In some embodiments, the first circumferential end portion 340 is the first axial leg portion At points along 340a, the second axial leg 340b, or the uppermost region 350, it is substantially cylindrical. The main body 310 may have a radius of curvature R1 with a first axial end 303. In some embodiments, the second circumferential end portion 342 is the first axial leg portion 340a, the second At a point along the axial leg portion 340b, or the lowest point region 352, the substantially cylindrical body 310 Having a radius of curvature R2 with a first axial end 303 or a second axial end 305 This is possible. In some embodiments, the uppermost region 350 of the first circumferential end 340 is It can have a radius of curvature R1, and the lowest point region 352 of the second circumferential end 342 is curvature It can have a radius R2, where R1 > R2, for example 0.75R1 > R2. For example, 0.5R1 > R2, for example 0.25R1 > R2, or for example 0.1R1 > R2. In one embodiment, as best shown in Figure 3L, the first circumferential end The first axial leg portion 340a of 340 and the first axial leg portion of the second circumferential end portion 342 320a may have the same radius of curvature along their lengths, and the first circumferential end 3 The second axial leg portion 340b of 40 and the second axial leg portion 3 of the second circumferential end portion 342 42b may have the same radius of curvature along their lengths. In one embodiment, see Figure 3O As best shown, the first axial leg portion 340a of the first circumferential end portion 340 And the first axial leg portion 342 of the second circumferential end portion 320a is along their length The second axial leg portion 340b of the first circumferential end portion 340 may have different radii of curvature. And the second axial leg portion 342b of the second circumferential end portion 342 is along their length They may have different radii of curvature. Radius of curvature at a point along the first circumferential end 340 R1 may be positive or negative. Curvature at a point along the second circumferential end 342 The radius R2 may be positive or negative. For example, Figure 3M shows the first circumferential end 340 At a point along the radius of curvature R1 and at a point along the radius of curvature R2 of the second circumferential end 342 This indicates a negative radius of curvature. C1 and C2 are the first axial end 303 or the second It cannot be terminated perpendicular to the axial end 305. Alternatively, Figure 3N shows the first The point along the radius of curvature R1 of the circumferential end 340 and the curvature of the second circumferential end 342 This shows the radius of curvature, which is negative at points along radius R².

[0054] As described above, in some embodiments, any of the exemplary bearings disclosed herein may be used. The assembly may include internal components such as shafts. It may include. The assembly may further include external components such as a housing. The semblage may include a bearing positioned between the inner and outer members. It includes a first circumferential end containing the uppermost point region and a second circumferential end containing the lowermost point region. It may include bearing sidewalls. The first circumferential end and the second circumferential end are relative to each other. It may be adapted to contact and form an interface, with less than half of the uppermost or lowermost region However, one of them is between the uppermost region of the first circumferential end and the lowermost region of the second circumferential end. It includes a gap to prevent contact between them. The bearing sidewall may include a substrate and a low-friction material. And at least one of the end faces of the first circumferential end or the second circumferential end is low friction It is not necessary to include ingredients.

[0055] Figures 4 and 5 show the door hinges, hood hinges, and engine compartment of an automobile. Figure 5 shows an example of a hinge assembly 2000 in the form of a hinge 400. This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of assembly 200. The hinge 400 has an inner component 28 (inner hinge It can include the hinge region 402, etc., and the outer hinge region 404. , 404 is an external component (rivet 406, 408, etc.) and bearing 410, 412 Therefore, they can be joined. Bearings 410 and 412 are described above in this specification and reference numeral 31 to 4. The bearing can be as shown by 0. Figure 5 shows the rivet 408 and bearing 412. A cross-section of the hinge 400 is shown in more detail.

[0056] Figure 6 shows an assembly 2001 of another exemplary form of hinge 600. Hinge 600 The first hinge region 602 and the second hinge region are joined by pin 606 and bearing 608. The hinge region 604 may be included. The bearing 608 is referred to herein as above. The bearings can be those indicated by numbers 31 to 40.

[0057] In an exemplary embodiment, Figure 7 shows a disassembled automotive door hinge component including a bearing 704. Non-limiting assembly 2002 in one embodiment of another hinge assembly 700 including An example is shown. Figure 7 is an example of a profile hinge. The bearing 704 is the hinge door portion. 706 may be inserted. The bearing 704 is referred to herein by reference numerals 31 to 40 as described above. The bearing shown is the rivet 708 is the hinge door portion 706, which is approximately the circumference of the hinge. The cylindrical main body portion 710 is bridged. The rivet 708 is connected to the hinge via the set screw 712. The roughly cylindrical main body portion 710 is fastened, and the hinge door portion 70 is fastened via a washer 702. 6 may be held in place.

[0058] Figure 8 shows an exemplary headset assembly 8 for a two-wheeled vehicle such as a bicycle or motorcycle. The assembly 2003 in form 00 is shown. The steering tube 802 is the head tube It can be inserted into the 804. Bearings 806 and 808 are connected to the steering tube 802. Position it so as to maintain alignment with the head tube 804, and the steering tube Contact between the 802 and the head tube 804 can be prevented. Bearing 806, 808 can be a bearing as described above in this specification and shown by reference numerals 31-40. Furthermore, seals 810 and 812 prevent contamination of the bearing's sliding surface by dirt and other particulate matter. It can prevent staining.

[0059] All such assemblies described above are illustrative examples and may include other potential assemblies. This does not mean that the use of bearings is limited. For example, bearings are used in powertrains. In-assembly applications (such as belt tensioners), or other applications with limited space. It can be used for assembly purposes in semblage applications.

[0060] A method for forming a bearing may include the step of providing a blank. The bearing is based A blank including a strip of material including a plate and a laminate including a low-friction layer on a substrate. The strip of material may be formed to have a first end and a second end. It may be molded, and the molding step involves molding the first end to form the uppermost region. The process includes a step and a step of forming a second end to form the lowest point region, and up to the highest point region. The lowest point region includes a gap. This method is used to form an annular bearing. The step may further include roll forming of the trip, with a first end and a second end The parts each form a complementary first circumferential end and a second circumferential end.

[0061] Applications of such embodiments include, for example, assemblies for hinges and other vehicle components. This includes bridges. Furthermore, the use of bearings or assemblies is not limited to these, but is also applicable to vehicle technology. Door gates, door frames, seat assemblies, powertrain applications (belt tensioners) In some applications, such as (etc.) or other types of uses, it can increase profits. Yes, it is possible. According to embodiments of this specification, the split bearing has a second circumferential end that is the first circumferential end It provides deformation such that it is forced to move axially away from the opposite end, as is known in the art. By maintaining a more consistent bearing radius compared to existing bearings, under high-pressure conditions This allows for better maintenance of "cylindricity". Therefore, according to the embodiments of this specification, The split bearing maintains the hoop stress required for press-fitting, and the axial edges of the bearing are relative to each other. This makes it possible to maintain the alignment. In other words, the implementation provided herein The form is often demonstrated by existing bearings known in the art under high-pressure input conditions. , radial bending and / or caused by thermal expansion and / or high load conditions This can reduce or eliminate "high spots". As a result, the embodiments of this specification Split bearings narrow the torque range, improve concentricity, reduce wear on the bearing surface, and Therefore, it extends the lifespan and improves the effectiveness and performance of assemblies, bearings, and other components. It can be improved.

[0062] Many different aspects and embodiments are possible. This will be explained below. After reading this specification, those skilled in the art will understand that these aspects and embodiments are It should be understood that these are merely illustrative examples and do not limit the scope of the present invention. Embodiments are described below. This may follow one or more of the listed embodiments.

[0063] Embodiment 1. A bearing comprising a first circumferential end portion including a top point region and a second circumferential end portion including a bottom point region, the bearing side wall including the first circumferential end portion and the second circumferential end portion being adapted to contact each other to form an interface, at least one of the top point region or the bottom point region including a gap for preventing contact between the top point region of the first circumferential end portion and the bottom point region of the second circumferential end portion, the bearing side wall including a substrate and a low friction material, and at least one of the first circumferential end portion or the second circumferential end portion including an end face not including the low friction material. Embodiment 2. An assembly including an inner component, an outer component, and a bearing disposed between the inner component and the outer component, the bearing including a bearing side wall having a first circumferential end portion including a top point region and a second circumferential end portion including a bottom point region, the first circumferential end portion and the second circumferential end portion being adapted to contact each other to form an interface, at least one of the top point region or the bottom point region including a gap for preventing contact between the top point region of the first circumferential end portion and the bottom point region of the second circumferential end portion, the bearing side wall including a substrate and a low friction material, and at least one of the first circumferential end portion or the second circumferential end portion including an end face not including the low friction material. Embodiment 3. A method comprising the step of forming a strip of material including a substrate and a low friction material, the strip having a first end and a second end, the forming step forming the first end to form a top point region and forming the second end to form a bottom point region. 実施形態1. 最上点領域を含む第1の円周方向端部と、最下点領域を含む第2の円周方向端部と、を備える軸受側壁を含む軸受であって、第1の円周方向端部および第2の円周方向端部は、互いに接触して界面を形成するように適合され、最上点領域または最下点領域の少なくとも一方は、第1の円周方向端部の最上点領域と第2の円周方向端部の最下点領域との間の接触を防止するための空隙を含み、軸受側壁は基板および低摩擦材料を含み、第1の円周方向端部または第2の円周方向端部の少なくとも一方は、低摩擦材料を含まない端面を含む、軸受。 実施形態2. 内側構成要素と、外側構成要素と、内側構成要素と外側構成要素との間に配置された軸受と、を含むアセンブリであって、軸受は、最上点領域を含む第1の円周方向端部と、最下点領域を含む第2の円周方向端部と、を備える軸受側壁を含み、第1の円周方向端部および第2の円周方向端部は、互いに接触して界面を形成するように適合され、最上点領域または最下点領域の少なくとも一方は、第1の円周方向端部の最上点領域と第2の円周方向端部の最下点領域との間の接触を防止するための空隙を含み、軸受側壁は基板および低摩擦材料を含み、第1の円周方向端部または第2の円周方向端部の少なくとも一方は、低摩擦材料を含まない端面を含む、アセンブリ。 実施形態3. 基板および低摩擦材料を含む材料のストリップを成形する方法であって、ストリップが第1の端部および第2の端部を有し、成形する方法が、第1の端部を成形して最上点領域を形成し、第2の端部を成形して最下点領域を形成する、方法。 実施形態1. A bearing comprising a bearing side wall having a first circumferential end portion including a top point region and a second circumferential end portion including a bottom point region, the first circumferential end portion and the second circumferential end portion being adapted to contact each other to form an interface, at least one of the top point region or the bottom point region including a gap for preventing contact between the top point region of the first circumferential end portion and the bottom point region of the second circumferential end portion, the bearing side wall including a substrate and a low friction material, and at least one of the first circumferential end portion or the second circumferential end portion including an end face not including the low friction material.

[0064] 実施形態2. An assembly including an inner component, an outer component, and a bearing disposed between the inner component and the outer component, the bearing including a bearing side wall having a first circumferential end portion including a top point region and a second circumferential end portion including a bottom point region, the first circumferential end portion and the second circumferential end portion being adapted to contact each other to form an interface, at least one of the top point region or the bottom point region including a gap for preventing contact between the top point region of the first circumferential end portion and the bottom point region of the second circumferential end portion, the bearing side wall including a substrate and a low friction material, and at least one of the first circumferential end portion or the second circumferential end portion including an end face not including the low friction material. 実施形態3. A method comprising the step of forming a strip of material including a substrate and a low friction material, the strip having a first end and a second end, the forming step forming the first end to form a top point region and forming the second end to form a bottom point region. 実施形態1. 最上点領域を含む第1の円周方向端部と、最下点領域を含む第2の円周方向端部と、を備える軸受側壁を含む軸受であって、第1の円周方向端部および第2の円周方向端部は、互いに接触して界面を形成するように適合され、最上点領域または最下点領域の少なくとも一方は、第1の円周方向端部の最上点領域と第2の円周方向端部の最下点領域との間の接触を防止するための空隙を含み、軸受側壁は基板および低摩擦材料を含み、第1の円周方向端部または第2の円周方向端部の少なくとも一方は、低摩擦材料を含まない端面を含む、軸受。 実施形態2. 内側構成要素と、外側構成要素と、内側構成要素と外側構成要素との間に配置された軸受とのアセンブリであって、軸受は、最上点領域を含む第1の円周方向端部と、最下点領域を含む第2の円周方向端部と、を備える軸受側壁を含み、第1の円周方向端部および第2の円周方向端部は、互いに接触して界面を形成するように適合され、最上点領域または最下点領域の少なくとも一方は、第1の円周方向端部の最上点領域と第2の円周方向端部の最下点領域との間の接触を防止するための空隙を含み、軸受側壁は基板および低摩擦材料を含み、第1の円周方向端部または第2の円周方向端部の少なくとも一方はための空隙を含み、軸受側壁は基板および低摩擦材料を含み、第1の円周方向端部または第2の円周方向端部の少なくとも一方は、低摩擦材料を含まない端面を含む、アセンブリ。 実施形態3. 基板および低摩擦材料を含む材料のストリップを成形する方法であって、ストリップが第1の端部および第2の端部を有し、成形する方法が、第1の端部を成形して最上点領域を形成し、第2の端部を成形して最下点領域を形成する、方法。 実施形態1. A bearing comprising a bearing side wall having a first circumferential end portion including a top point region and a second circumferential end portion including a bottom point region, the first circumferential end portion and the second circumferential end portion being adapted to contact each other to form an interface, at least one of the top point region or the bottom point region including a gap for preventing contact between the top point region of the first circumferential end portion and the bottom point region of the second circumferential end portion, the bearing side wall including a substrate and a low friction material, and at least one of the first circumferential end portion or the second circumferential end portion including an end face not including the low friction material. 実施形態2. An assembly including an inner component, an outer component, and a bearing disposed between the inner component and the outer component, the bearing including a bearing side wall having a first circumferential end portion including a top point region and a second circumferential end portion including a bottom point region, the first circumferential end portion and the second circumferential end portion being adapted to contact each other to form an interface, at least one of the top point region or the bottom point region including a gap for preventing contact between the top point region of the first circumferential end portion and the bottom point region of the second circumferential end portion, the bearing side wall including a substrate and a low friction material, and at least one of the first circumferential end portion or the second circumferential end portion including an end face not including the low friction material. 実施形態3. A method comprising the step of forming a strip of material including a substrate and a low friction material, the strip having a first end and a second end, the forming step forming the first end to form a top point region and forming the second end to form a bottom point region.

[0065] 実施形態3. A method comprising the step of forming a strip of material including a substrate and a low friction material, the strip having a first end and a second end, the forming step forming the first end to form a top point region and forming the second end to form a bottom point region. 実施形態3. A method comprising the step of forming a strip of material including a substrate and a low friction material, the strip having a first end and a second end, the forming step forming the first end to form a top point region and forming the second end to form a bottom point region. 実施形態3. A method comprising the step of forming a strip of material including a substrate and a low friction material, the strip having a first end and a second end, the forming step forming the first end to form a top point region and forming the second end to form a bottom point region. The step and annular bearing have a gap in at least one of their uppermost or lowermost regions. A step of roll forming a strip to form a first end and a second end The steps include: the ends of which each form complementary first and second circumferential ends. A way to do it.

[0066] Embodiment 4. The bearing side wall includes a first axial end and a second axial end, and the first shaft Embodiment 1, in which at least one of the directional end or the second axial end does not contain low-friction material. A bearing, assembly, or method as described in any of 3 to 3.

[0067] Embodiment 5. The bearing sidewall includes an outer surface and an inner surface, and the low friction material is less than the outer surface or inner surface. A bearing, assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 4, which essentially covers one of the entire components. R, or method.

[0068] Embodiment 6. The low-friction material extends to at least one end face of the first and second circumferential ends. A bearing, assembly, or method according to Embodiment 5, extending thereto.

[0069] Embodiment 7. At least one end face of the first circumferential end or the second circumferential end is Embodiments 1 to 6 include a deformation zone, a cutting zone, and a crushing zone. Any bearing, assembly, or method described below.

[0070] Embodiment 8. The first circumferential end has radial thickness, and the second circumferential end has radial thickness It has a radial thickness, and the first circumferential end and the second circumferential end have their respective radial thicknesses. A bearing, assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 7, which is in contact with each other along its entire length. , or method.

[0071] Embodiment 9. The bearing, assembly, or method according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 8, wherein the gap creates a gap between the first circumferential end and the second circumferential end.

[0072] Embodiment 10. The interface has an interface length L, the gap has a gap length L, and L is 0.25L, for example L < 0.20L, for example L < 0.15L, for example L < 0.10L, or for example L < 0.05L, etc. The bearing, assembly, or method according to Embodiment 9. G G < G G G < G

[0073] Embodiment 11. The bearing, assembly, or method according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 10, wherein the uppermost point region of the first circumferential end has a radius of curvature R1, the lowermost point region of the second circumferential end has a radius of curvature R2, and R1 > R2.

[0074] Embodiment 12. The bearing, assembly, or method according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 11, wherein the first circumferential end includes a first axial leg and a second axial leg, and the second circumferential end includes a first axial leg and a second axial leg such that the first circumferential end and the second circumferential end contact to form a V-shaped interface.

[0075] Embodiment 13. The bearing, assembly, or method according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 12, wherein the first circumferential end includes a first axial end and a second axial end, and the second circumferential end includes a first axial end and a second axial end such that the first circumferential end and the second circumferential end contact to form a C-shaped interface. ​

[0076] Embodiment 14. The first axial end and the second circumferential end of the first circumferential end The axial ends of one have the same radius of curvature along their length, and the first circumferential end of the first has the same radius of curvature along its length. The axial end of the second and the second axial end of the second circumferential end are along their lengths A bearing, assembly, or method according to Embodiment 13, having the same radius of curvature.

[0077] Embodiment 15. The uppermost region forms a general angle α defined as an angle ≤ 180°, α at least 30°, for example at least 60°, for example at least 90°, for example less Any of Embodiments 1 to 14, where both are 120°, or, for example, at least 150°. The bearings, assemblies, or methods described herein.

[0078] Embodiment 16. The uppermost region forms a general angle α defined as an angle ≤ 180°, α If the angle is 180° or less, for example 120° or less, for example 90° or less, for example 60° or less, or example For example, a bearing, assembly, or other bearing described in any of Embodiments 1 to 15, which is 45° or less. That is a method.

[0079] Embodiment 17. A bearing, assembly according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 16, wherein the substrate includes steel. Yellowtail, or method.

[0080] Embodiment 18. Low friction material is polyketone, polyaramid, thermoplastic polyimide, poly Etherimide, polyphenylene sulfide, polyethersulfone, polysulfone, Lifenylene sulfone, polyamide-imide, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, fluoropolymer Implementation includes polyamides, polybenzimidazoles, or any combination thereof. A bearing, assembly, or method according to any one of embodiments 1 to 17.

[0081] Embodiment 19. Embodiment 1, which includes a body and radial flange with a substantially cylindrical bearing side wall. A bearing, assembly, or method as described in any of 18.

[0082] Embodiment 20. The radial flange is between the first circumferential end and the second circumferential end. A bearing, assembly, or other bearing according to any one of embodiments 1 to 19, which includes an opening at the interface, That is a method.

[0083] It should be noted that not all of the above features are necessary; only specific feature domains may be required. This is not required, and one or more additional features may be provided in addition to the features described above. Furthermore, the order in which features are listed does not necessarily reflect the order in which they are incorporated.

[0084] For clarity, certain features described herein in the context of a separate embodiment are, They may be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, for the sake of brevity, a single embodiment The various features described in the context of form are provided separately or in any subcombination. That's good too.

[0085] The benefits, other advantages, and solutions to the problems described above with respect to specific embodiments are not described above. However, to generate benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any benefits, advantages, or solutions. Any feature that may make or make more prominent is in any or all of the claims It should not be interpreted as an important, necessary, or essential characteristic.

[0086] The specifications and drawings of the embodiments described herein are intended to provide a general understanding of the structure of various embodiments. This specification and drawings are intended to provide the structure or method described herein. A comprehensive and inclusive description of all elements and characteristics of the apparatus and systems that use the law. It is not intended to be useful in that way. Different embodiments are combined into a single embodiment to provide. Alternatively, for the sake of brevity, various features described in the context of a single embodiment may be separated. They may be provided individually or in any subcombination. Furthermore, to the values ​​listed in the range The reference includes all values ​​within that range. Many others Embodiments may become apparent to those skilled in the art. Without departing from the scope of this disclosure, the structure Other embodiments can be used to enable direct substitution, logical substitution, or any modification. And may be derived from this disclosure. Therefore, this disclosure is considered exemplary rather than restrictive. It should be done.

Claims

1. It is a bearing, A first circumferential end containing the uppermost point region, and a second circumferential end containing the lowermost point region, The bearing includes a bearing side wall, and the first circumferential end and the second circumferential end are relative to each other. Adapted to contact and form an interface, less than the uppermost or lowermost region At least one of them is the uppermost point region of the first circumferential end and the front of the second circumferential end. The bearing includes a gap to prevent contact with the lowest point region, and the bearing sidewall is made of a substrate and low friction The friction material includes at least one of the first circumferential end or the second circumferential end. This is a bearing that includes end faces that do not contain low-friction material.

2. It is an assembly, Internal components and, External components and, A bearing disposed between the inner component and the outer component, Includes, The bearing has a first circumferential end including the uppermost region and a second circumferential end including the lowermost region. The bearing side wall includes the outward end and the first circumferential end and the second circumferential The ends are adapted to contact each other and form an interface, in the uppermost or lowermost region. At least one of the point regions is the uppermost point region of the first circumferential end and the second circumferential region The bearing sidewall includes a gap to prevent contact between the directional end and the lowest point region, and the bearing sidewall is base The plate and low friction material are included, and the first circumferential end or the second circumferential end An assembly in which at least one end face does not contain low-friction material.

3. It is a method, A step of forming a strip of material including a substrate and a low-friction material, wherein the strip The lip has a first end and a second end, and the molding step is the first end The uppermost region is formed by molding the second end, the lowermost region is formed by molding the lowermost end A step in which at least one of the upper region or the lowermost region includes a gap, A step of roll forming the strip to form an annular bearing, the The first end and the second end each form complementary first and second circumferential ends. The steps to do, A method that includes this.

4. The bearing side wall includes a first axial end and a second axial end, and the first axial Claim 1, wherein at least one of the end or the second axial end does not contain a low-friction material. The bearing, assembly, or method described in any one of paragraphs 3.

5. The bearing sidewall includes an outer surface and an inner surface, and the low-friction material is on the outer surface or the inner surface. A bearing according to any one of claims 1 to 3, which essentially covers at least one of the wholes, Swertia japonica, or method.

6. The low-friction material extends to at least one of the end faces of the first and second circumferential ends. The bearing, assembly, or method according to claim 5.

7. The end face of at least one of the first circumferential end or the second circumferential end is Any of claims 1 to 3, comprising a deformation zone, a cutting zone, and a crushing zone. The bearing, assembly, or method described in any one of the paragraphs.

8. The first circumferential end has radial thickness, and the second circumferential end has radial thickness It has a length, and the first circumferential end and the second circumferential end are in their respective radial directions A bearing according to any one of claims 1 to 3, which contacts each other along the entire thickness. Nbri, or method.

9. The aforementioned void creates a gap between the first circumferential end and the second circumferential end. A bearing, assembly, or method according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

10. The interface has an interface length L, and the gap has a gap length L Ｇ It has L Ｇ <0.2 The bearing, assembly, or method according to claim 9, wherein the value is 5L.

11. The uppermost region of the first circumferential end has a radius of curvature R. １ Having the second circumferential direction The lowest point region at the end has a radius of curvature R. ２ It has R １ > R ２ Any of claims 1 to 3 The bearing, assembly, or method described in any one of the paragraphs.

12. The first circumferential end includes a first axial leg and a second axial leg, and the first The circumferential end of one part and the second circumferential end of the other part come into contact to form a V-shaped interface. Claim 1, wherein the second circumferential end includes a first axial leg and a second axial leg. A bearing, assembly, or method as described in any one of paragraphs 3 to 3.

13. The first circumferential end includes a first axial end and a second axial end, and the first The circumferential end of one part and the second circumferential end of the other part come into contact to form a C-shaped interface. Claim 1, wherein the second circumferential end includes the first axial end and the second axial end. A bearing, assembly, or method as described in any one of paragraphs 3 to 3.

14. The uppermost region forms a general angle α defined as an angle ≤ 180°, and α is at least A bearing according to any one of claims 1 to 3, which is 30° and 180° or less. Nbri, or method.

15. The bearing side wall includes a substantially cylindrical body and a radial flange, according to claims 1 to 3. Any bearing, assembly, or method described in item one.

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