Motor protector system

Abstract

An assembly for use in an electrical submersible pump includes a thrust runner. A shaft extends through the thrust runner. A plurality of grooves is formed in an exterior surface of the shaft. A ring disposed around the shaft includes an interior surface defining a bore. The interior surface includes a plurality of ribs protruding into the bore. Each rib is engaged with a corresponding groove of the plurality of grooves. A collar is disposed around the shaft and the ring. The collar includes a flange engaged with the thrust runner between the thrust runner and the ring.

Description

MOTOR PROTECTOR SYSTEMCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(a) of Indian Provisional Patent Application No. 202411010697, entitled “ESP Shaft Snap Ring Grooves and Thrust Shoulders With Reduced Stress Fatigue” and filed February 15, 2024, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.BACKGROUND

[0002] Electric submersible pumping (ESP) systems are used in a variety of well related applications and often comprise a submersible pump powered by a submersible motor which is protected by a motor protector, e.g., a seal section. The traditional motor protector is located between the submersible pump and the submersible motor. The motor protector includes chambers which combine the functions of compensating for thermal expansion and contraction of motor oil, discharging motor oil into the well when the volume of motor oil exceeds the motor's capacity due to thermal expansion, and sealing of an internal driveshaft against leakage. The motor protector comprises a thrust chamber assembly to carry axial thrust loads generated by operation of the submersible pump and by the weight of a rotating pumping assembly of the pump. Additionally, the submersible motor may comprise a thrust chamber assembly to carry the weight of the motor shaft and rotors. In some systems, the shaft of the protector and the shaft of the motor are rigidly joined and one thrust chamber is used to carry the entire thrust load as well as the weight of the shafts and internal assemblies supported by the shafts. Conventional motor protectors, however, have one or more rectangular snap rings engaged with the shaft. These rectangular snap rings are the weakest point along the shaft and have a high stress concentration factor.

[0003] There is a need for an improved apparatus for connecting a component to the shaft that improves the longevity of the shaft.SUMMARY

[0004] In one aspect, an assembly includes a thrust runner and a shaft extending through the thrust runner. The shaft includes a plurality of grooves formed in an exterior surface of the shaft. The assembly further includes a ring including an interior surface defining a bore. The interior surface includes a plurality of ribs protruding into the bore,each nb engaged with a corresponding groove of the plurality of grooves. The assembly further includes a collar disposed around the shaft and the ring. The collar includes a flange engaged with the thrust runner between the thrust runner and the ring.

[0005] In another aspect, an assembly includes a thrust runner. The thrust runner includes a first side, a second side opposite the first side, and a first interior surface extending from the first side to the second side defining a first bore. The first interior surface includes an abutment shoulder. The assembly further includes a shaft extending through the first bore of the thrust runner. The shaft includes a plurality of grooves formed in an exterior surface of the shaft. The assembly further includes a ring including a second interior surface defining a second bore. The second interior surface includes a plurality of ribs protruding into the second bore. Each rib is engaged with a corresponding groove of the plurality of grooves. The ring is at least partially disposed in the first bore, and a first end of the ring is engaged with the abutment shoulder.

[0006] In another aspect, an assembly includes a thrust runner. The assembly further includes a shaft extending through the thrust runner. The shaft includes a plurality7of grooves formed in an exterior surface of the shaft. The assembly further includes a plurality of first rings disposed around the shaft. Each first ring includes a first interior surface defining a first bore. Each first interior surface includes a rib protruding into the first bore. Each rib is engaged yvith a corresponding groove of the plurality of grooves. The assembly further includes a second ring disposed around the shaft. The second ring includes a second interior surface defining a second bore engaged with the exterior surface of the shaft. The assembly further includes a collar disposed around the shaft and the plurality of first rings. The collar includes a flange engaged with the thrust runner and between the thrust runner and second the ring.

[0007] The following description and the appended figures set forth certain features for purposes of illustration.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0008] The appended figures illustrate only exemplary embodiments and are therefore not to be considered limiting of the scope of the disclosure, as the disclosure may admit to other equally effective embodiments.

[0009] FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a submersible pumping system disposed in a borehole, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 2 schematically illustrates a cross-section of an exemplary motor protector to show an exemplary bearing assembly of the motor protector, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 3 schematically illustrates a cross-section of an exemplary' motor protector to show an exemplary bearing assembly of the motor protector, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 4 schematically illustrates a cross-section of an exemplary motor protector to show an exemplary load sharing assembly of the motor protector, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 5 schematically illustrates a cross-section of an exemplary motor protector to show an exemplary load sharing assembly of the motor protector, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 6 schematically illustrates a cross-section of an exemplary' motor protector to show an exemplary' load sharing assembly of the motor protector, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 7 schematically illustrates a cross-section of an exemplary motor protector to show an exemplary compression assembly of the motor protector, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 8 schematically illustrates a cross-section of an exemplary motor protector to show an exemplary load sharing assembly of the motor protector, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 9 schematically illustrates a cross-section of an exemplary' motor protector to show an exemplary' load sharing assembly of the motor protector, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 9A schematically illustrates a portion of FIG. 9 in further detail.

[0019] FIG. 10 schematically illustrates a cross-section of an exemplary motor protector to show an exemplary load sharing assembly of the motor protector, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 11 schematically illustrates a cross-section of an exemplary motor protector to show an exemplary load sharing assembly of the motor protector, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 12 schematically illustrates a cross-section of an exemplary motor protector to show an exemplary load sharing assembly of the motor protector, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 13 schematically illustrates a cross-section of an exemplary motor protector to show an exemplary7load sharing assembly of the motor protector, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

[0023] To facilitate understanding, identical reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate identical elements that are common to the figures. It is contemplated that elements and features of one embodiment may be beneficially incorporated in other embodiments without further recitation.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] Aspects of the present disclosure provide systems, apparatus, and methods for a bearing assembly, a compression assembly, a shoulder assembly, and load sharing assembly for a motor protector of an ESP system.

[0025] FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a production wellsite 100 with a submersible pumping system 120 (e.g., an electric submersible pumping system) disposed in a wellbore 128. The submersible pumping system 120 may comprise a variety7of components depending on the particular application or environment in which the submersible pumping system 120 is operated. In the example illustrated, the submersible pumping system 120 is in the form of an electric submersible pumping system that includes a submersible motor 122, a submersible pump 124 powered by the submersible motor 122, and a motor protector 126. In some embodiments, the submersible pumping system 120 includes additional components, such as a gas handler.

[0026] As illustrated, the submersible pumping system 120 may be deployed in a wellbore 128 (e.g., a borehole) drilled in a geologic formation 130. The geologic formation 130 may contain desirable production fluids, such as petroleum. In well applications, the borehole 128 may be lined with a wellbore casing 132 and a plurality of perforations 134 may be formed through the wellbore casing 132 and out into the geologic formation 130. The perforations 134 facilitate the flow of fluids, e.g., production fluids, from the formation 130 and into wellbore 128 for pumping via submersible pumping system 120.

[0027] The submersible pumping system 120 may be deployed downhole from a surface location 136 via a conveyance 138. By way of example, the conveyance 138 may comprise tubing 140, e.g., production tubing or coiled tubing, coupled to submersible pumping system 120 via a connector 142. Electric power may be provided to submersible motor 122 through a power cable 144. When submersible motor 122 is electrically powered, the submersible motor 122 operates to power submersible pump 124, e g., a centrifugal pump, which then draws in fluid from borehole 128 through a pump intake 146. In the example illustrated, the fluid drawn in through pump intake 146 is pumped via submersible pump 124 upwardly through tubing 140 to a desired surface collection location or other collection location.

[0028] During operation of submersible pump 124. the pumping of fluids upwardly through tubing 140 can place substantial axial loading on the system of shafts and couplings by which submersible motor 122 drives submersible pump 124. The system of shafts and couplings extends from submersible pump 124 down through motor protector 126 and into or through submersible motor 122. The axial loading is carried by at least one thrust bearing system 148 which may be located in motor protector 126. The submersible motor 122 also may comprise at least one thrust bearing system 148 to carry the weight of, for example, the shaft and rotors within submersible motor 122. In some embodiments, one or more other components of the submersible pumping system 120 (such as the submersible pump 124 or a gas handler) includes at least one thrust bearing system 148. Each thrust bearing system 148 comprises a thrust runner connected to the shaft and a thrust bearing located in a thrust chamber, as described in greater detail below . The thrust bearing system 148 may include load sharing assemblies to facilitate transferring the load from the shaft to the thrust runner. Additionally, the motor protector 126 may also include bearing assemblies to facilitate rotation of the shaft within the motor protector 126. The motor protector 126 may also include a compression assembly to abut against and load a component coupled to the shaft. In some embodiments, the motor protector 126 may include a shoulder assembly to form a shoulder on the shaft.

[0029] The motor protector 126 may also include one or more fluid separation assemblies to separate and isolate wellbore fluid that enters the motor protector 126 from the internal motor oil used to lubricate the motor 122.

[0030] FIG. 2 schematically illustrates a cross-section of an exemplary motor protector 200 to show an exemplary bearing assembly 230 of the motor protector 200. The bearing assembly 230 may be incorporated into the motor protector 126 of FIG. 1.

[0031] As shown, the motor protector 200 has a shaft 210 disposed within a housing 220 that may include a support 221 engaged with the bearing assembly 230. The shaft 210 is rotatable about the longitudinal axis 201 by the motor 122. The shaft 210 includes a first rounded groove 211 and a second rounded groove 212.

[0032] The bearing assembly 230 is configured to facilitate rotation of the shaft 210 within the housing 220, such as rotation of the shaft 210 relative to the support 221. The bearing assembly 230 includes a sleeve 240, a trap ring 250, an insert in the form of one or more biasing elements 260, a first retainer (such as in the form of a first rounded w ire 271), and a second retainer (such as in the form of a second rounded wire 272). The bearing assembly 230 is axially coupled to the shaft 210 by the first rounded ware 271 and the second rounded wire 272 that are disposed in the first rounded groove 211 and in the second rounded groove 212, respectively. A lubricant, such as a motor oil, may be circulated within the motor protector 200 to lubricate the bearing assembly 230.

[0033] The sleeve 240 is disposed about the shaft 210 and includes a first end 241 and a second end 242. The sleeve 240 includes a bore 243 defined by an inner surface 244 of the sleeve 240 that extends from the first end 241 to the second end 242. The inner surface 244 further defines a first ware contact shoulder 245 located at a first end of the bore 243 (e.g., shoulder around entrance to the bore 243). The second end 242 of the sleeve 240 includes a first shoulder 246. The first shoulder 246 may be a squared shoulder.

[0034] The trap ring 250 is disposed about the shaft 210, with the shaft 210 being disposed in a bore of the trap ring 250. The trap ring 250 includes a first ring side 251 and a second ring side 252. The first ring side 251 includes a second wire contact shoulder 253 and the second ring side 252 is a second shoulder, such as being a squared shoulder.

[0035] The one or more biasing elements 260 are disposed between the first shoulder 246 of the sleeve 240 and the second ring side 252 (e.g., second shoulder) of the trap ring 250. In some embodiments, the one or more biasing element 260 may include a wave spring, such as the plurality of wave springs shown in FIG 2. One wave spring of the plurality of the wave springs is engaged with the first shoulder 246 while another wavespring of the plurality of wave springs is engaged with the second ring side 252. The one or more biasing elements 260 may be a single biasing element in some embodiments. The one or more biasing elements 260 may include any suitable biasing element, such as a wave spring, a Bellville spring, a curved disk, a bowed washer, a helical spring, an elastic member (e.g.. an elastomeric block or ring), or other spring form. The one or more biasing elements 260 apply an axial pre-load to the sleeve 240. In some embodiments, the pre-load of the one or more biasing elements 260 is configured to exceed any thrust loads exerted on the one or more biasing elements 260 in service, making the bearing assembly 230 advantageous for applications with light thrust loads where radial space for assembly is limited.

[0036] The upper half of FIG 2 (e.g., half above longitudinal axis 201) shows the one or more biasing elements 260 in a retracted state. The second rounded wire 272 can be inserted into the second rounded groove 212 of the shaft 210 while the one or more biasing elements 260 are in the retracted state. The one or more biasing elements 260 are biased toward the expanded state. Thus, the one or more biasing elements 260 bias the first wire contact shoulder 245 into engagement with the first rounded wire 271 and the second wire contact shoulder 253 into engagement with the second rounded wire 272 to axially trap the sleeve 240 on the shaft 210. The lower half of FIG. 2 (e.g., half below the longitudinal axis 201) shows the first wire contact shoulder 245 in engagement with the first wire element 271 and the second wire contact shoulder 253 in engagement with the second rounded wire 272.

[0037] The first rounded wire 271 and second rounded wire 272 each have a generally rounded (e.g., circular, oval, flat wire with rounded edges) cross section. The first rounded groove 211 and second rounded groove 212 have a shape that is complementary to the respective rounded wire 271, 272. For example, the first and second rounded grooves 21 1. 212 may have a semicircular (e.g., half moon) cross-section for a roundwire element having a circular cross-section as shown in FIG. 2. In other words, there is an interface 235 between each rounded wire 271, 272 with the respective rounded groove 211, 212 that is rounded in a plane parallel to, and through, the longitudinal axis 201. In an example, each of the first and second rounded grooves 211, 212 may have a radius of curvature that matches the radius of curvature of the respective rounded wire 271, 272. The interface 235 being rounded results in a lower stress concentration factor as compared to conventional rectangular snap rings with sharp comers disposed in a rectangular grooveof a shaft with small comer radii. This lower stress concentration factor increases the longevity of the shaft 210 since localized stresses at the point of contact of the rounded wires 271, 272 with the shaft 210 are reduced.

[0038] In some embodiments, the rounded grooves 211, 212 extend about the circumference of the shaft 210. In some embodiments, the rounded wires 271, 272 may- each include a plurality of segments. In other words, the rounded wires 271, 272 may not be a continuous ring but instead may be a plurality of discontinuous segments. In some embodiments, the rounded wires 271, 272 may each be a round wire snap ring. In some embodiments, the rounded wires 271, 272 extend about an arc, but not a full circumference, of the shaft 210.

[0039] The wire contact shoulders 245, 253 are configured to retain the respective rounded wire 271, 272 in the respective groove 211, 212. In some embodiments, the first wire contact shoulder 245 and second wire contact shoulder 253 have a rounded profile that is complementary to the respective rounded wire 271, 272. In other words, there is an interface 236 between each rounded wire 271, 272 and the respective wire contact shoulder 245, 253 that is rounded in a plane parallel to, and through, the longitudinal axis 201. In an example, each of the first and second wire contact shoulders 245. 253 may have a radius of curvature that matches the radius of curvature of the respective rounded wire 271, 272. The interface 236 being rounded results in a lower stress concentration factor as compared to conventional rectangular snap rings with sharp comers disposed against a corresponding shoulder.

[0040] In some embodiments, one or both of the wire contact shoulders 245, 253 are not rounded but instead include an angled surface. For example, each of the wire contact shoulders 245, 253 may be a flat surfaced angled at about 45 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis 201. The angle and / or shape of the wire contact shoulders 245, 253 maybe selected to minimize the stress concentration between the contact of the rounded wire 271, 272 and the respective wire contact shoulder 245, 253. In some embodiments, the wire contact shoulders 245, 253 extend circumferentially around the bore of the trap ring 250.

[0041] In some embodiments, one of the rounded wire element 271 , 272 and the respective wire contact shoulder 245, 253 may be omitted where the bearing assembly- 230 is abutted to another component of the motor protector 200. For example, the firstrounded wire element 271 and first wire contact shoulder 245 may be omitted when the first end 241 of the sleeve 240 is abutted with a thrust runner (e.g., thrust runner 420 in FIG. 4) such that the sleeve 240 is axially trapped between the thrust runner and the second rounded wire element 272.

[0042] In some embodiments, the sleeve 240 is a bearing sleeve as shown in FIG. 2. However, the sleeve 240 may be any suitable sleeve component, such as being a seal component (e.g.. a seal sleeve), or a load bearing component (e.g., a component with a load shoulder).

[0043] FIG. 3 schematically illustrates an exemplary cross-section of an exemplary motor protector 300 to show an exemplary bearing assembly 330 of the motor protector 300. The bearing assembly 330 is similar to bearing assembly 230, except that the insert is in the form of one or more spacer elements 360. The bearing assembly 330 may be incorporated into the motor protector 126 of FIG. 1. The motor protector 300 is similar components to the motor protector 200 shown in FIG 2 as indicated by the reference signs without reciting the description of these components for brevity7.

[0044] The upper half of FIG. 3 shows the trap ring 250 in a retracted position allowing the second rounded wire 272 to be placed into the second rounded groove 212. As shown in the lower half of FIG. 3, the bearing assembly 300 includes the one or more spacer elements 360 disposed between the first shoulder 246 of the sleeve 240 and the second ring side 252 (e.g., shoulder) of the trap ring 250. The one or more spacer elements 360 are configured to take up the space betw een the first shoulder 246 and the second ring side 252 to maintain the abutment of the first wire contact shoulder 245 with the first rounded wire 271 and the abutment of the second wire contact shoulder 253 with the second rounded wire 272. The one or more spacer elements 360 are placed between the sleeve 240 and the trap ring 250 after the second rounded wire 272 is installed in the second groove 212. In some embodiments, bearing assembly 330 is configured to withstand higher axial thrust loads than bearing assembly 230. In an example, the one or more spacer elements 360 do not retract like the one or more biasing elements 260 of the bearing assembly 230.

[0045] In some embodiments, the one or more spacer elements 360 include a snap ring. In some embodiments, the one or more spacer elements 360 include a plurality7of snap rings. In some embodiments, the one or more spacer element 360 include at leastone shim. In some embodiments, the one or more spacer elements include at least one first spacer and at least one second spacer of a different form, such as one snap ring and a plurality7of shims. In some embodiments, the one or more spacer elements 360 include a single piece element, such as a snap ring or an open ring (e.g.. a C-ring). In some embodiments, the one or more spacer elements 360 include a plurality of discontinuous segments. In some embodiments, the one or more spacer elements 360 include a plurality of interlocking members. In some embodiments, the one or more spacer elements 360 include a spring element.

[0046] In some embodiments, the one or more spacer elements 360 are disposed within a collar (e.g., a keeper ring) to retain the one or more spacer elements 360 between the trap ring 250 and the sleeve 240.

[0047] FIG. 4 schematically illustrates a cross-section of a motor protector 400 to show an exemplary load sharing assembly 440 to facilitate transferring the axial load, show n as arrow T, of the shaft 410 to a thrust runner 420. In some embodiments, the thrust runner 420 is an annular member configured to transfer the axial load T to another component, such as a thrust bearing (described below), a spacer, a bulkhead, a spring, or other thrust-resisting component. The load sharing assembly 440 may be incorporated into the motor protector 126 of FIG. 1, and may be part of the thrust bearing system 148.

[0048] The shaft 410 of the motor protector 400 is disposed within a housing 402. The shaft 410 is rotatable about the longitudinal axis 401 by the motor 122. The shaft 410 includes a plurality' of rounded grooves that each correspond with a respective rounded groove (e.g., wire contact shoulders 473a-d) of the load sharing assembly 440. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 4, the shaft 410 includes a first rounded groove 41 1, a second rounded groove 412, a third rounded groove 413, and a fourth rounded groove 414 formed on the exterior surface of the shaft 410. The shaft 410 may also include a first key way 415 formed in the exterior surface.

[0049] The thrust runner 420 includes a first side 421 and a second side 422 opposite the first side 421. The thrust runner 420 includes an interior surface 423 defining a bore that extends from the first side 421 to the second side 422. The interior surface 423 includes a second keyway 424. The second keyway 424 may extend from the first side 421 to the second side 422. A key 425 may be inserted into the first keyway 415 and into the second key way 424 the thrust runner 420 to rotationally connect the shaft 410 to thethrust runner 420. The key 425 may have a length such that the key 425 extends from the first side 421 to the second side 422 of the thrust runner 420. The first side 421 of the thrust runner 420 is engaged with the load sharing assembly 440 to receive the axial load from the shaft 410. The second side 422 of the thrust runner 420 is engaged with a thrust bearing 490 (such as a down thrust bearing) of the motor protector 400.

[0050] The load sharing assembly 440 includes a plurality of retainers (e.g., a first retainer (such as in the form of a first rounded wire 461), a second retainer (such as in the form of a second rounded wire 462), a third retainer (such as in the form of a third rounded wire 463), and a fourth retainer (such as in the form of a fourth rounded wire 464)). The load sharing assembly 440 further includes a plurality of trap rings (e g., first trap ring 470a. second trap ring 470b, third trap ring 470c, and fourth trap ring 470d). The trap rings 470a-470d are engageable with a corresponding rounded wire 461-464, respectively, to share the axial load of the shaft 410.

[0051] In some embodiments, a collar 450 (e.g., keeper ring) facilitates the transfer of the axial load to the thrust runner 420. The collar 450 also is configured to retain the trap rings 470a-470d in position and to prevent extrusion of the trap rings 470a-470d. The collar 450 includes a first end 451 and a second end 452 engaged with the first side 421 of the thrust runner 420.

[0052] The collar 450 further includes an interior surface 453 defining a bore 455 extending from the first end 451 to the second end 452. The interior surface 453 includes a first surface portion 453a defining a first bore portion 455a of the bore 455 and a second surface portion 453b defining a second bore portion 455b of the bore 455. The first surface portion 453 a includes an abutment shoulder 457 at a first end of the first bore portion 455a. As shown in FIG. 4, the first bore portion 455a has a larger diameter than the second bore portion 455b.

[0053] The trap rings 470a-470d are disposed within the first bore portion 455a and are disposed around the shaft 410. In some embodiments, the periphery (e.g., exterior surface) of the trap rings 470a-470d are engaged with the first surface portion 453a. Each trap ring 470a-470d includes a first ring side 471 and a second ring side 472. Each trap ring 470a-470d includes a wire contact shoulder (e.g., rounded groove) formed on the first ring side 471 to receive an associated rounded wire 411-414. As show n, the first trap ring 470a includes a first wire contact shoulder 473a, the second trap ring 470b includesa second wire contact shoulder 473b, the third trap ring 470c includes a third wire contact shoulder 473c, and the fourth trap ring 470c includes a fourth wire contact shoulder 473d.

[0054] As shown in FIG. 4, the first trap ring 470a is engaged with the abutment shoulder 457 and the second ring side 472 is engaged with the abutment shoulder 457. The first side 271 of the first ring 470a is engaged with the second ring side 472 of the second trap ring 470b. The second trap ring 470b is disposed between and engaged with the first trap ring 470a and the third trap ring 470c, with the first ring side 471 of the second ring 470b being engaged with the second side 472 of the third trap ring 470c. The third trap ring 470c is disposed between and engaged with the second trap ring 470b and the fourth trap ring 470d. with the first ring side 471 of the third ring 470c being engaged with the second side 472 of the fourth trap ring 470d. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 4, the first ring side 471 of the fourth trap ring 470d may be flush with the first side 451 of the collar 450.

[0055] The first rounded wire 461 is partially disposed in the first groove 411 and partially disposed within the first trap ring 470a (e.g., within the groove formed by the first wire contact shoulder 473a). The second rounded wire 462 is partially disposed in the second groove 412 and partially disposed within the second trap ring 470b (e.g.. within the groove formed by the second wire contact shoulder 473b). The third rounded wire 463 is partially disposed in the third groove 413 and partially disposed within the third trap ring 470c (e.g., within the groove formed by the third wire contact shoulder 473c). The fourth rounded wire 464 is partially disposed in the fourth groove 414 and partially disposed within the fourth trap ring 470d (e.g., within the groove formed by the fourth wire contact shoulder 473d).

[0056] The rounded wires 461-464 contact their respective wire contact shoulder 473a-d to transfer the axial load of the shaft 410 to a respective trap ring 470a-d. The trap rings 470a-d transfer the axial load to the collar 450 via the interface between the first trap ring 470a and the abutment shoulder 457. The collar 450 transfers the axial load to the thrust bearing via the interface between the second side 452 of the collar 450 and the first side 421 of the thrust runner 420. The rounded wires 461-464 distribute the load such that the axial load is not being transferred to a single trap ring when the load sharing assembly 440 is fully loaded. In some embodiments, the axial load is split evenly between the interfaces 435 between each rounded wire 461-464 and the respective trap ring 470a- 470d.

[0057] In some embodiments, one rounded wire of rounded wires 461-464 may contact another trap ring of trap rings 470a-470d prior to the other rounded wires of rounded wires 461-464 contacting corresponding trap rings of trap rings 470a-470d due to manufacturing tolerances of the components. However, the axial load will cause the other rounded wires of rounded wires 461-464 to seat against the trap ring of trap rings 470a-470d, such as through the localized deformation of one or more trap rings of trap rings 470a-470d sufficient to allow for the contact of each rounded wire 461-464 with each corresponding trap ring 470a-470d. For example, the fourth rounded wire 464 may seat against the fourth wire contact shoulder 473d of the fourth trap ring 470d first. The axial load may cause the fourth trap ring 470d to deform to allow another rounded wire to seat against a trap ring, such as the third rounded wire 463 to seat against the third wire contact shoulder 473c of the third trap ring 470c.

[0058] The trap rings 470a-470d are formed of a softer material and more malleable material than the rounded wires 411-414 and the collar 450 to facilitate localized deformation (e.g., yielding) of the trap rings 470a-d to facilitate contact between each rounded wire 461-464 and each corresponding trap nng 470a-d to distribute the axial load. For example, the rounded wires 411-414 and collar 450 may be formed from a hardened steel while the trap rings 470a-d may be formed from a mild steel.

[0059] In some embodiments, the collar 450 is omitted. In some embodiments, the collar 450 is present, but the abutment shoulder 457 is omitted. In an example, the first trap ring 470a abuts against the first side 421 of the thrust runner 420. In another example, the first trap ring 470a abuts against an intermediate component, such as a washer or spacer between the first trap ring 470a and the thrust runner 420.

[0060] In some embodiments, the spacing of the rounded grooves 41 1 -414 along the longitudinal axis 401 (e.g., axial spacing) may be the same as the spacing of the wire contact shoulders 473a-d. In some embodiments, the rounded grooves 411-414 may be axially spaced closer together than wire contact shoulders 473a-d to facilitate transferring the axial load from the shaft 410 to the thrust runner 420. In some embodiments, the rounded grooves 411-414 may be axially spaced farther apart than wire contact shoulders 473a-d to facilitate transferring the axial load from the shaft 410 to the thrust runner 420.

[0061] In some embodiments, the rounded grooves 411-414 may be spaced apart by the same axial distance. Similarly, the wire contact shoulders 473a-d may be spaced apartthe same axial distance. In some embodiments, the trap rings 470a-d may have different thicknesses to vary the spacing of the wire contact shoulder. For example, the axial spacing of the wire contact shoulders may vary, such as each of the wire contact shoulders 473a-d being spaced a different axial distance relative to at least one adjacent wire contact shoulder. Similarly, the axial spacing of the rounded grooves 411-414 may be varied such that one or more of the rounded grooves is spaced a different axial distance relative to at least one adj acent rounded groove.

[0062] The rounded wires 461-464 each have a generally rounded (e.g., circular, oval, flat wire with rounded edges) cross section. The rounded grooves 411-414 have a shape that is complementary to the respective rounded wire 461-464. For example, the rounded grooves 411-414 may have a semicircular (e.g., half moon) cross-section for a round- wire element having a circular cross-section as shown in FIG. 4. In other words, there is an interface 435 between the rounded wire 461-464 with the respective rounded groove 411- 414 that is rounded in a plane parallel to, and through, the longitudinal axis 401. In some embodiments, the rounded grooves 411-414 may have a radius of curvature that matches the radius of curvature of the respective rounded wire 461-464. The interface 435 being rounded results in a lower stress concentration factor as compared to conventional rectangular snap rings with sharp comers disposed in a rectangular groove of a shaft with small comer radii. This lower stress concentration factor increases the longevity of the shaft 410 since localized stresses at the point of contact of the rounded wires 461-464 with the shaft 410 are reduced. Additionally, the rounded grooves 411-414 may be shallower than a conventional groove in a shaft configured to receive a conventional rectangular snap ring since the load is being shared at multiple interfaces 435 along the shaft. Thus, the shaft 410 has a larger diameter at the grooves 411-414 than a conventional shaft which also improves longevity of the shaft 410. In some embodiments, the rounded wires 461-464 may each include a plurality of segments. In other words, the rounded wires 461-464 may not be a continuous ring but instead may be a plurality' of discontinuous segments. In some embodiments, the rounded wires 461-464 may each be a round wire snap ring. In some embodiments, the rounded wires 461-464 extend about an arc, but not a full circumference, of the shaft 410.

[0063] The wire contact shoulders 473a-d are configured to retain the respective rounded wire 461-464 in the respective groove 411-414. In some embodiments, the wire contact shoulders 473a-d have a rounded profile that is complementary to the respectiverounded wire 461-464. In other words, there is an interface 436 between each rounded wire 461-464 and the respective wire contact shoulder 473a-d that is rounded in a plane parallel to, and through, the longitudinal axis 401. In an example, each of the wire contact shoulders 473a-d may have a radius of curvature that matches the radius of curvature of the respective rounded wire 461-464. The interface 436 being rounded results in a lower stress concentration factor as compared to conventional rectangular snap rings with sharp comers disposed against a corresponding shoulder.

[0064] In some embodiments, one or both of the wire contact shoulders 245, 253 are not rounded but instead are an angled surface. For example, each of the wire contact shoulders 473a-d may be a flat surfaced angled at about 45 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis 401. The angle and / or shape of the wire contact shoulders 473a-d may be selected to minimize the stress concentration between the contact of the rounded wire 461-464 and the respective wire contact shoulder 473a-d. In some embodiments, the wire contact shoulders 473a-d may have a radius of curvature that matches the radius of curvature of the respective rounded wire 461-464.

[0065] In some embodiments, the load sharing assembly 440 may be pre-loaded to create contact with the rounded wires 461-464 and the associated trap ring 470a-d. For example, the load sharing assembly 440 may be pre-loaded by a compressing assembly by torque. Alternatively, the seating-in load may be applied by a manufacturing tool such as a hydraulic cylinder or a jack screw. In some embodiments, the compression assembly 730 shown in FIG. 7 may be used to pre-load the load sharing assembly 440.

[0066] The load sharing assembly440 has the same number of trap rings as round wire elements. The axial load capacity (e.g.. thrust capacity) of the load sharing assembly 440 may be adjusted by varying the number of trap rings and round wire elements. While four trap rings 470a-d and four rounded wires 461-464 are shown, the load sharing assembly 440 may have more than four trap rings and round wire elements. In some embodiments, the load sharing assembly 440 may have less than four trap rings and round wire elements, such as two or three trap rings and round wire elements.

[0067] FIG. 5 schematically illustrates a cross-section of a motor protector 500 to show an exemplary load sharing assembly 540 to facilitate transferring the axial load of the shaft 510 to a thrust runner 420. The load sharing assembly 540 may be incorporated into the motor protector 126 of FIG. 1 and may be part of the thrust bearing system 148.The motor protector 500 includes certain similar components to the motor protector 400 shown in FIG 4 as indicated by the reference signs without reciting the description of these components for brevity.

[0068] The shaft 510 of the motor protector 500 is disposed within a housing 502. The shaft 510 is rotatable about the longitudinal axis 501 by the motor 122. The shaft 510 includes a first rounded helical groove 511 that corresponds with a second rounded helical groove 573 of the load sharing assembly 540. The shaft 510 may also include a first key way 515 formed in the exterior surface. The key 425 may be inserted into the first key way 515 and into the second keyway 424 of the thrust runner 420 to rotationally connect the shaft 510 to the thrust runner 420. The key 425 may have a length such that the key 425 extends from the first side 421 to the second side 422 of the thrust runner 420. The first side 421 of the thrust runner 420 is engaged with the load sharing assembly 540 to receive the axial load from the shaft 510. The second side 422 of the thrust runner 420 is engaged with a thrust bearing 590 (such as a down thrust bearing) of the motor protector 500.

[0069] The load sharing assembly 540 includes a collar 550, a wire (such as in the form of a helical rounded wire 560). and a nut 570 (e.g.. trap ring, trap nut). The nut 570 is engageable with the helical rounded wire 560 to distribute the axial load of the shaft 510 along the nut 570. As described below the interface 535 between the helical rounded wire 560 and the shaft 510 (at the first helical groove 511), and the interface 536 between the helical rounded wire 560 and the nut 570 (at the second helical groove 573) has a larger area as compared to a conventional rectangular locking wire or snap ring. Thus, the helical rounded wire 560 and associated helical grooves 511, 573 improve load distribution of the axial load from the shaft 510 to the nut 570.

[0070] The collar 550 (e.g., keeper ring) facilitates the transfer of the axial load to the thrust runner 420. The collar 550 also is configured to retain the nut 570 and to prevent extrusion of the nut 570 disposed in the collar 550. The collar 550 includes a first end 551 and a second end 552 engaged with the first side 421 of the thrust runner 420.

[0071] The collar 550 further includes an interior surface 553 defining a bore 555 extending from the first end 551 to the second end 552. The interior surface 553 includes a first surface portion 553a defining a first bore portion 555a of the bore 555 and a second surface portion 553b defining a second bore portion 555b of the bore 555. The firstsurface portion 553a includes an abutment shoulder 557 at a first end of the first bore portion 555a. As shown in FIG. 5, the first bore portion 555a has a larger diameter than the second bore portion 555b. In some embodiments, the first surface portion 553a has threads corresponding to threads on the exterior surface of the nut 570.

[0072] The nut 570 is disposed in the first bore portion 555a and is further disposed around the shaft 510. In some embodiments, the nut 570 is treaded to the collar 550. The nut 570 includes a first nut side 571 and a second nut side 572. The nut 570 includes the second rounded helical groove 573 formed on an inner surface 574 of the nut 570 that defines a bore of the nut 570 that the shaft 510 is disposed within. The second nut side 572 may contact the abutment shoulder 557 when the nut 570 is placed into the collar.

[0073] The second rounded helical groove 573 corresponds with the first rounded helical groove 511. The helical rounded wire 560 may be placed in the first helical groove 511 and then the nut 570 may be rotated to thread the nut to the collar 550 to trap the helical rounded wire 560 between the collar 550 and the nut 570. The nut 570 may be formed from a softer material than the helical rounded wire 560 and the collar 550 to compensate for tolerances and deflection and thereby effect distribution of a thrust load over multiple turns of the helical rounded wire 560. The nut 570 may experience localized deformation as axial load is applied to the shaft 510 which facilitates contact between the helical rounded wire 560 along its length with the second helical groove 573 to spread the load along the second helical groove 573. For example, the nut 570 may be formed from a mild steel while the collar 550 and helical rounded wire 560 are formed from ahardened steel.

[0074] In some embodiments, the nut 570 has one or more openings 575 formed within that extend perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis 501 . The one or more openings 575 may be configured to receive a tightening tool (e.g., a wrench, a spanner wrench, a hook wrench, or the like) to facilitate tightening the nut 570 to the collar 550 or to the shaft 510.

[0075] The nut 570 may be locked in place within the collar 550. For example, the nut 570 may be locked in place by a locking member 576 (such as a pin or a set screw) that is introduced into one of the one or more openings 575 in the nut 570 that engages with the shaft 510. The nut 570 may also be locked in place by a key, solder, weld, adhesive, or other suitable device. In some embodiments, the nut 570 may be retainedwithin the collar 550 by another collar or element enclosing the nut 570 within the collar 550. In some embodiments, the nut 570 may be locked in place by engagement of a shoulder assembly 830 as shown in FIG. 8.

[0076] The helical rounded wire 560 includes a plurality of turns about the shaft 510, and has a generally rounded (e.g., circular, oval, flat wire with rounded edges) cross section. The first helical groove 511 and second helical groove 573 each have a rounded profile that is complementary to the helical rounded wire 560. The interface 535 between the helical rounded wire 560 and the first helical groove 511 is rounded in a plane parallel to, and through, the longitudinal axis 501. The interface 536 between the helical rounded wire 560 and the second helical groove 573 is rounded in a plane parallel to, and through, the longitudinal axis 501. The interfaces 535. 536 being rounded result in a lower stress concentration factor as compared to conventional rectangular locking wire or snap rings with sharp comers disposed in rectangular grooves of a shaft or a nut that have small comer radii. This lower stress concentration factor increases the longevity of the shaft 510 since localized stresses at the point of contact of the helical rounded wire 560 with the shaft 510 are reduced. Additionally, the first helical groove 511 of the shaft 510 may be shallower than a conventional groove in a shaft configured to receive a conventional rectangular snap ring since the load is being shared at a larger surface area along the shaft. Thus, the shaft 510 has a larger diameter at the first helical groove 511 than a conventional shaft, which also improves longevity of the shaft 510.

[0077] In some embodiments, the helical rounded wire 560 may be a plurality of discontinuous segments arranged in a helical pattern around the shaft 510.

[0078] FIG. 6 schematically illustrates a cross-section of a motor protector 600 to show an exemplary load sharing assembly 640 to facilitate transferring the axial load of the shaft 510 to a thrust runner 420. The load sharing assembly 640 may be incorporated into the motor protector 126 of FIG. 1 and may be part of the thrust bearing system 148. The motor protector 600 includes certain similar components to the motor protector 500 shown in FIG 5 as indicated by the reference signs without reciting the description of these components for brevity’.

[0079] The first side 421 the thrust runner 420 is engaged with the load sharing assembly 640 to receive the axial load from the shaft 510. The second side 422 of thethrust runner 420 is engaged with a thrust bearing 690 (such as a down thrust bearing) of the motor protector 600.

[0080] The load sharing assembly 640 includes a collar 550, a wire (such as in the form of the helical rounded wire 560), and a nut 670 (e.g., trap ring, trap nut). The nut 670 is engageable with the helical rounded wire 560 to distribute the axial load of the shaft 510 along the nut 670. The interface 535 between the helical rounded wire 560 and the shaft 510 (at the first helical groove 511) and the interface 636 between the helical rounded wire 560 and the nut 670 (at the second helical groove 673) has a larger area as compared to a conventional rectangular locking wire or snap ring. Thus, as described above with respect to Figure 5, the helical rounded wire 560 and associated helical grooves 511, 673 improve load distribution of the axial load from the shaft 510 to the nut 670.

[0081] The interface 535 between the helical rounded wire 560 and the first helical groove 511 is rounded in a plane parallel to, and through, the longitudinal axis 501. The interface 636 between the helical rounded wire 560 and the second helical groove 673 is rounded in a plane parallel to, and through, the longitudinal axis 501. The interfaces 535, 636 being rounded result in a lower stress concentration factor as compared to conventional rectangular locking wire or snap rings with sharp comers disposed in rectangular grooves of a shaft or a nut that have small comer radii. This lower stress concentration factor increases the longevity of the shaft 510 since localized stresses at the point of contact of the helical rounded wire 560 with the shaft 510 are reduced. Additionally, the first helical groove 511 of the shaft 510 may be shallower than a conventional groove in a shaft configured to receive a conventional rectangular snap ring since the load is being shared at a larger surface area along the shaft. Thus, the shaft 510 has a larger diameter at the first helical groove 511 than a conventional shaft, which also improves longevity of the shaft 510.

[0082] In some embodiments, a trap ring 660 is disposed on the other side of the thrust runner 420 from the load sharing assembly 640. The trap ring 660 is further disposed around the shaft 510. The trap ring 660 includes a first ring side 661 and a second ring side 662. The first ring side 661 includes a wire contact shoulder 663 that is engageable with a rounded wire 680 that is partially disposed within a rounded groove 616 formed on the exterior of the shaft 510. The wire contact shoulder 663 traps the rounded wire 680 within the rounded groove 616 and prevents the trap ring 660 from moving axiallyalong the shaft 510 past the rounded wire 680. The second ring side 662 is engageable with the second side 422 of the thrust runner 420. Thus, the second ring side 662 of the trap ring 660 provides a shoulder that allows the load sharing assembly 640 to be tightened against the thrust runner 420.

[0083] The nut 670 is disposed in the first bore portion 555a and is further disposed around the shaft 510. In some embodiments, the nut 670 is treaded to the collar 550. The nut 670 includes a first nut side 671 and a second nut side 672. The nut 670 includes a second helical groove 673 formed on an inner surface 674 of the nut 670 that defines a bore of the nut 670 that the shaft 510 is disposed within. The second nut side 672 may contact the abutment shoulder 557 when the nut 670 is placed into the collar 550. The nut 670 also includes a head 678. The head 678 may have a profile that is complimentary to a tightening tool (e.g., a wrench, a spanner wrench, a hook wrench, or the like). For example, the head 678 may have a hexagonal profile. In some embodiments, the head 678 may have one or more openings 675 formed within that extend perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis 501. The one or more openings 675 may be configured to receive a tightening tool (e.g., a wrench, a spanner wrench, a hook wrench, or the like) to facilitate tightening the nut 670 to the collar 550 or to the shaft 510. One or more of the openings 675 may receive a locking member 676 (such as a pin or a set screw) that is engageable with the shaft 510 (e.g., in a blind hole drilled into the shaft 510) to lock the nut 670 in place. The nut 670 may be formed from a softer material than the helical rounded wire 560 and the collar 550 to compensate for tolerances and deflection and thereby effect distribution of a thrust load over multiple turns of the helical rounded wire 560. The nut 670 may experience localized deformation as axial load is applied to the shaft 510 which facilitates contact between the helical rounded wire 560 along its length with the second helical groove 673 to spread the load along the second helical groove 673. For example, the nut 670 may be formed from a mild steel while the collar 550 and helical rounded wire 560 are formed from a hardened steel.

[0084] Another collar may be placed around the shaft 510 to retain the nut 670 within the collar 550.

[0085] FIG. 7 schematically illustrates a cross-section of a motor protector 700 to show an exemplary compression assembly 730 to inhibit or remove axial play of the thrust runner 420, such as providing a shoulder for the thrust runner 420 that is also engaged with a load sharing assembly 702. The load sharing assembly 702 and compressionassembly 730 may be incorporated into the motor protector 126 of FIG. 1 and may be part of the thrust bearing system 148. The motor protector 700 includes certain similar components to the motor protector 400 shown in FIG 4 as indicated by the reference signs without reciting the description of these components for brevity.

[0086] The load sharing assembly 702 facilitates sharing the axial load of the shaft 710 to the thrust runner 420. The load sharing assembly 702 may be the load sharing assembly 440. 540, or 640 disclosed above. In some embodiments, the load sharing assembly 702 may be the load sharing assembly 440, 540, 640, 940, 1040, 1140, 1240, or 1340 disclosed herein. The shaft 710 has one or more grooves (e.g., helical groove, rounded groove) formed thereon corresponding to the respective load sharing assembly. The shaft 710 is rotatable about the longitudinal axis 701 by the motor 122.

[0087] The compression assembly 730 includes a first threaded member 740 (e.g., male threaded member), a second threaded member 750 (e.g.. female threaded member), and a retainer (such as in the form of rounded wire 760). The compression assembly 730 is trapped between the second side 422 of the thrust runner 420 and the rounded wire 760.

[0088] The first threaded member 740 is disposed around the shaft 710, the first threaded member 740 includes a first interior surface 741 defining a bore that receives the shaft 710 and an exterior surface 742 that includes a first threaded portion 743 that includes male or female threads. The first threaded member 740 further includes a first shoulder 745 at an end thereof engaged with the second side 422 of the thrust runner 420.

[0089] The second threaded member 750 is disposed around the shaft 710. The second threaded member 750 includes an interior surface 752 that has a second threaded portion 753 that is complementary to the first threaded portion 743. In some embodiments, the second threaded portion 753 includes female threads that are complementary to and engaged with the male threads of the first threaded member 740. In some embodiments, the second threaded portion 753 includes male threads that are complementary to and engaged with the female threads of the first threaded member 740. The second threaded member 750 includes a wire contact shoulder 755 formed at an end thereof. The second threaded member 750 is rotatable relative to the first threaded member 740, or vice versa, to position the second threaded member 750 in a lock position relative to the first threaded member 740. The wire contact shoulder 755 is engaged withthe rounded wire 760 when the second threaded member 750 is in the lock position as shown in FIG. 7.

[0090] In some embodiments, when the first shoulder 745 of the first threaded member 740 is engaged with the thrust runner 740, relative rotation between the first threaded member 740 and the second threaded member 750 moves the second threaded member 750 axially along the shaft 710. In an example, the second threaded member 750 moves between a first position in which the wire contact shoulder 755 is disengaged from the rounded wire 760, and a second position in which the wire contact shoulder 755 is engaged with the rounded wire 760. The second position may correspond to the lock position.

[0091] In some embodiments, when the wire contact shoulder 755 of the second threaded member 750 is engaged with the rounded wire 760. relative rotation between the first threaded member 740 and the second threaded member 750 moves the first threaded member 740 axially along the shaft 710. In an example, the first threaded member 740 moves between a first position in which the first shoulder 745 of the first threaded member 740 is disengaged from the thrust runner 740, and a second position in which the first shoulder 745 is engaged with the thrust runner 740. The second position may correspond to the lock position.

[0092] The compression assembly 730 removes the axial play of the thrust runner 420 on the shaft 710 to facilitate an engagement of the load sharing assembly 702 with the first side 421 of the thrust runner 420. Either the first threaded member 740 or second threaded member 750 can be rotated relative to the other to compress (e.g., pre-load) the thrust runner 420 between the first shoulder 755 and the load sharing assembly 702. For example, a torque may be applied to the second threaded member 750 to place the first threaded member 740 in a lock position that also applies an axial force to the thrust runner 420.

[0093] In some embodiments, the first threaded member 740 may include one or more openings 746 (e.g., a spanner wrench hole). The openings 746 may be configured to receive a tightening tool, such as a wrench, a spanner wrench, a hook wrench, or the like. In some embodiments, the second threaded member 750 may also include one or more openings 756. The openings 756 may be configured to receive a tightening tool, such as a wrench, a spanner wrench, a hook wrench, or the like.

[0094] In some embodiments, a locking member 776 (such as a pin or a set screw) may be placed in one or both of the openings 746, 756 and engaged with the shaft 710 to lock the second threaded member 750 in the lock position. In some embodiments, an exterior surface 751 of the second threaded member 750 has a profile to engage a tightening tool (e.g., a wrench, a spanner wrench, a hook wrench, or the like) to facilitate rotation of the second threaded member 750 relative to the first threaded member 740. In some embodiments, the second threaded member 750 is locked in the lock position by at least one of staking, pinning, adhesive, or welding.

[0095] The rounded wire 760 has a generally rounded (e.g., circular, oval, flat wire with rounded edges) cross section. The wire contact shoulder 755 has a rounded profile that is complementary to the rounded wire 760. The rounded groove 711 has a shape that is complementary to the rounded wire 760. For example, the rounded groove 711 may have a semicircular (e.g., half moon) cross-section for a round-wire element having a circular cross-section as shown in FIG. 7. In other words, there is an interface 735 between the rounded wire 760 and the rounded groove 711 that is rounded in a plane parallel to, and through, the longitudinal axis 701. In some embodiments, the rounded grooves 711 may have a radius of curvature that matches the radius of curvature of the rounded wire 760. The interface 735 being rounded results in a lower stress concentration factor as compared to conventional rectangular snap rings with sharp comers disposed in a rectangular groove of a shaft with small comer radii. This lower stress concentration factor increases the longevity of the shaft 710 since localized stresses at the point of contact of the rounded wire 760 with the shaft 710 are reduced.

[0096] The wire contact shoulder 755 is configured to retain the rounded wire 760 in the rounded groove 711. In some embodiments, the wire contact shoulder 755 has a rounded profile that is complementary to the rounded wire 760. In other words, there is an interface 736 between the rounded wire 760 and the wire contact shoulder 755 that is rounded in a plane parallel to, and through, the longitudinal axis 701. In an example, the wire contact shoulder 755 may have a radius of curvature that matches the radius of curvature of the rounded wire 760. The interface 736 being rounded results in a lower stress concentration factor as compared to conventional rectangular snap rings with sharp comers disposed against a corresponding shoulder.

[0097] FIG. 8 schematically illustrates a cross-section of a motor protector 800 to show an exemplary shoulder assembly 830 disposed within the housing 802 to provide ashoulder on a shaft 810 of the motor protector 800. The shoulder assembly 830 replaces conventional snap rings to provide a shoulder against which another component that may be disposed about the shaft 810 can abut. The interface between a conventional snap ring and the shaft of a motor protector is the weakest point along the shaft due to the stress concentration factor of a rectangular snap rings with sharp comers disposed in a rectangular groove of the shaft with small comer radii. The shoulder assembly 830 has a lower stress concentration factor than conventional snap rings, which increases the longevity of the shaft 810. In some embodiments, the shoulder assembly 830 may be incorporated into the motor protector 126 of FIG. 1 and may be part of the thrust bearing system 148.

[0098] The shoulder assembly 830 includes a first threaded member 840 (e.g.. male threaded member), a second threaded member 850 (e g., female threaded member), and a retainer (such as in the form of rounded wire 860). Another component, such as a thrust runner 420 or a load sharing assembly, may be shouldered against either the first threaded member 840 and / or the second threaded member 850.

[0099] The first threaded member 840 is disposed around the shaft 810, the first threaded member 840 includes a first interior surface 841 defining a bore that receives the shaft 810 and an exterior surface 842 that includes a first threaded portion 843 that includes male or female threads. The first threaded member 840 further includes a first shoulder 845 at a first end thereof that is engageable with another component of the motor protector 800. In some embodiments, the first shoulder is squared relative to the longitudinal axis 801 to provide a square shoulder that another component can abut against. A first wire contact shoulder 847 is formed at a second end of the first threaded member 840 that is engageable with the rounded wire 860. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 8, the interior surface 841 defines the first wire contact shoulder 847 and the first threaded portion 843 is disposed between the first wire contact shoulder 847 and the first shoulder 845.

[0100] The second threaded member 850 is disposed around the shaft 810. The second threaded member 850 includes an interior surface 852 that has a second threaded portion 853 that is complementary to the first threaded portion 843. In some embodiments, the second threaded portion 853 includes female threads that are complementary to and engaged with the male threads of the first threaded member 840. In some embodiments, the second threaded portion 853 includes male threads that arecomplementary to and engaged with the female threads of the first threaded member 840. The second threaded member 850 includes a second shoulder 855 formed at an end thereof. In some embodiments, the second shoulder 855 is squared relative to the longitudinal axis 801 to provide a square shoulder that another component can abut against. The second threaded member 850 includes a second wire contact shoulder 857 formed on the interior surface 852 that is disposed between the second shoulder 855 and the second threaded portion 853. The second wire contact shoulder 857 is engageable with the rounded wire 860.

[0101] The second threaded member 850 is rotatable relative to the first threaded member 840, or vice versa, to position the second threaded member 850 in a lock position relative to the first threaded member 840. The rounded wire 860 is trapped between the first threaded member 840 and the second threaded member 850. The rounded wire 860 is engaged with the first wire contact shoulder 847 and the second wire contact shoulder 857 when the second threaded member 850 is in the lock position as shown in FIG. 8. The rounded wire 860 restricts axial movement of the first threaded member 840 and the second threaded member 850 due to the engagement of the first wire contact shoulder 847 and the second wire contact shoulder 857. Either the first threaded member 840 or second threaded member 850 can be rotated relative to the other to compress (e.g., pre-load) the rounded wire 860 between the first wire contact shoulder 847 and the second wire contact shoulder 857.

[0102] In some embodiments, relative rotation between the first threaded member 840 and the second threaded member 850 moves at least one of the first threaded member 840 or the second threaded member 850 axially along the shaft 810. In an example, the shoulder assembly 830 is adjusted by relative rotation between the first threaded member 840 and the second threaded member 850 between a first position in which at least one of the first wire contact shoulder 847 or the second wire contact shoulder 857 is disengaged from the rounded wire 860, and a second position in which the first wire contact shoulder 847 and the second wire contact shoulder 857 are engaged with the rounded wire 860. The second position may correspond to the lock position.

[0103] In some embodiments, the first threaded member 840 may include one or more openings 846. The openings 846 may be configured to receive a tightening tool, such as a wrench, a spanner wrench, a hook wrench, or the like. In some embodiments, the second threaded member 850 may also include one or more openings 856 (e.g., a spanner wrenchhole). The openings 856 may be configured to receive a tightening tool, such as a wrench, a spanner wrench, a hook wrench, or the like.

[0104] In some embodiments, a locking member 876 (such as a pin or a set screw) may be placed in one or both of the openings 846, 856 and engaged with the shaft 810 to lock the second threaded member 850 in the lock position. In some embodiments, an exterior surface 851 of the second threaded member 850 has a profile to engage a tightening tool (e.g., a wrench, a spanner wrench, a hook wrench, or the like) to facilitate rotation of the second threaded member 850 relative to the first threaded member 840. In some embodiments, the second threaded member 850 is locked in the lock position by at least one of staking, pinning, adhesive, or welding.

[0105] The rounded wire 860 has a generally rounded (e g., circular, oval, flat wire with rounded edges) cross section. The wire contact shoulders 847,857 have a rounded profile that is complementary to the rounded wire 860. The rounded groove 811 has a shape that is complementary to the rounded wire 860. For example, the rounded groove 811 may have a semicircular (e.g., half moon) cross-section for a round-wire element having a circular cross-section as shown in FIG. 8. In other words, there is an interface 835 between the rounded wire 860 and the rounded groove 811 that is rounded in a plane parallel to, and through, the longitudinal axis 801. In some embodiments, the rounded grooves 811 may have a radius of curvature that matches the radius of curvature of the rounded wire 860. The interface 835 being rounded results in a lower stress concentration factor as compared to conventional rectangular snap rings with sharp comers disposed in a rectangular groove of a shaft with small comer radii. This lower stress concentration factor increases the longevity of the shaft 810 since localized stresses at the point of contact of the rounded wire 860 with the shaft 810 are reduced.

[0106] In some embodiments, the first wire contact shoulder 847 is configured to retain the rounded wire 860 in the rounded groove 811. In some embodiments, the first wire contact shoulder 847 has a rounded profile that is complementary to the rounded wire 860. In other words, there is an interface 836 between the rounded wire 860 and the first wire contact shoulder 847 that is rounded in a plane parallel to, and through, the longitudinal axis 801. In an example, the first wire contact shoulder 847 may have a radius of curvature that matches the radius of curvature of the rounded wire 860. The interface 836 being rounded results in a lower stress concentration factor as compared toconventional rectangular snap rings with sharp comers disposed against a corresponding shoulder.

[0107] In some embodiments, the second wire contact shoulder 857 is configured to retain the rounded wire 860 in the rounded groove 811. In some embodiments, the second wire contact shoulder 857 has a rounded profile that is complementary to the rounded wire 860. In other words, there is an interface 837 between the rounded wire 860 and the second wire contact shoulder 857 that is rounded in a plane parallel to. and through, the longitudinal axis 801. In an example, the second wire contact shoulder 857 may have a radius of curvature that matches the radius of curvature of the rounded wire 860. The interface 837 being rounded results in a lower stress concentration factor as compared to conventional rectangular snap rings with sharp comers disposed against a corresponding shoulder.

[0108] FIG. 9 schematically illustrates a cross-section of a motor protector 900 to show an exemplary load sharing assembly 940 to facilitate transferring the axial load of the shaft 910 to a thrust runner 420. The load sharing assembly 940 may be incorporated into the motor protector 126 of FIG. 1 and may be part of the thrust bearing system 148. The motor protector 900 includes certain similar components to the motor protector 400 shown in FIG 4 as indicated by the reference signs without reciting the description of these components for brevity.

[0109] As shown, the motor protector 900 has a shaft 910 disposed within a housing 902. The shaft 910 is rotatable about the longitudinal axis 901 by the motor 122. The shaft 910 includes a plurality of grooves (three grooves 911, 912, 913 are illustrated), such as two, three, four, or more grooves. Each groove corresponds with a respective rib of the load sharing assembly 940, as described below. The grooves are formed in an exterior surface of the shaft 910. Each groove runs circumferentially in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 901. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 9, the shaft 910 includes a first groove 911, a second groove 912, a third groove 913 formed in the exterior surface of the shaft 910. The second groove 912 is disposed between the first groove 911 and the third groove 913. In some embodiments, the grooves 911, 912, 913 include at least one of a square shaped profile or a rounded profile.

[0110] The shaft 910 may also include a first keyway 415 formed in the exterior surface. The key 425 may be inserted into the first key way 515 and into the secondkey way 424 of the thrust runner 420 to rotationally connect the shaft 910 to the thrust runner 420. The key 425 may have a length such that the key 425 extends from the first side 421 to the second side 422 of the thrust runner 420. The first side 421 of the thrust runner 420 is engaged with the load sharing assembly 940 to receive the axial load from the shaft 910. The second side 422 of the thrust runner 420 is engaged with a thrust bearing 990 (such as a down thrust bearing) of the motor protector 900.

[0111] The load sharing assembly 940 includes a collar 950 and a ring 960. The ring 960 is disposed within the collar 950. The ring 960 includes a first ring end 961 and a second ring end 962. The second ring end 962 is engaged with an abutment shoulder 957 of the collar 950 to facilitate the transfer of the axial load from the shaft 910 to the thrust runner 420. An exterior surface 963 of the ring 960 is engaged with the interior surface 953 of the collar 950. An interior surface 964 of the ring 960 defines a bore that extends from the first ring end 961 to the second ring end 962.

[0112] The interior surface 964 also defines a plurality of axially spaced ribs protruding into the bore that are engageable with the grooves of the shaft 910. As show n, the ring 960 has a first rib 971 engageable with the first groove 911, a second rib 971 engageable with the second groove 912, and a third rib 973 engageable with the third groove 913. Each rib 971-973 includes a profile complementary to the corresponding groove 911-913, such as at least one of a square shaped profile or a rounded profile.

[0113] In some embodiments, the ring 960 may be a multi-component ring rather than a single ring. For example, and as show n in FIG. 9, the ring 960 may be a two-piece ring with a first ring portion 960a (e g., first ring half, first half circle) and a second ring portion 960b (e.g., second ring half, second half circle) that are engageable with the shaft 910. Each piece of the ring 960, such as the first ring portion 960a and second ring portion 960b, includes a portion of the ribs 971-973.

[0114] The ribs 971-973 are axially spaced along the longitudinal axis 901. The second rib 972 is disposed between the first rib 971 and the third rib 973. In some embodiments, the first rib 971, second rib 972, and third rib 973 are equidistantly spaced. In some embodiments, the ribs 971-973 are not equidistantly spaced. In some embodiments, the distance between the first rib 971 and the second rib 972 may be different than the distance between the third rib 973 and second rib 972.

[0115] Another component or assembly may be disposed on the other side of the thrust runner 420 from the load sharing assembly 940. In an example, a retainer 985, such as a snap ring, may be engaged with a corresponding groove 914 formed in the shaft 910 to restrict the axial play of the thrust runner 420. In another example, the compression assembly 730 or shoulder assembly 830 may be engaged with the second side 422 of the thrust runner 420 while collar 950 is engaged with the first side 421 of the thrust runner 420.

[0116] The collar 950 (e.g., keeper ring) facilitates the transfer of the axial load to the thrust runner 420. The collar 950 also is configured to retain the ring 960 and to prevent extrusion of the ring 960 disposed in the collar 950. The collar 950 includes a first end 951 and a second end 952 engaged with the first side 421 of the thrust runner 420. The collar 950 further includes an interior surface 953 defining a bore extending from the first end 951 to the second end 952. The interior surface 953 includes an abutment shoulder 957, which may be a shoulder squared with respect to the longitudinal axis 901, about which the shaft 910 rotates. The second end 952 may be a squared shoulder that is configured to engage the first side 421 of the thrust runner 420. The second end 952 may thus be a shoulder with a continuous interface of contact with the thrust runner 420 that facilitates transfer of the axial load from the shaft 910 to the thrust runner 420.

[0117] The second end 952 of the collar 950 includes a flange 956 that separates the ring 960 from the thrust runner 420. The flange 956 extends radially inwardly towards the shaft 910. In some embodiments, the flange 956 includes the abutment shoulder 957 on one side and the second end 952 on the other. The flange 956 separates the ring 960 from the thrust runner 420, which may become heated due to friction at an interface between the thrust runner 420 and the thrust bearing 990. In some embodiments, a thickness of the flange 956 between the second end 952 and the abutment shoulder 957 mitigates heat transfer between the thrust runner 420 and the ring 960. In some embodiments, a material of the flange 956 mitigates heat transfer between the thrust runner 420 and the ring 960. In an example, the flange 956 may be made of a ceramic material. In other words, the flange 956 may be configured to facilitate maintaining the ring 960 at a lower temperature than the thrust runner 420 when the thrust runner 420 becomes heated due to friction at an interface between the thrust runner 420 and the thrust bearing 990.

[0118] FIG. 9A schematically illustrates a portion of FIG.9 in further detail. In the illustrated example, each groove 911, 912, 913 has a groove width 915, and each rib 971, 972, 973 has a rib width 975. In the illustrated example, the groove width 915 is greater than the rib width 975. Adjacent grooves 911, 912, 913 are axially separated by a groove spacing 916, and adjacent ribs 971, 972, 973 are axially separated by a rib spacing 976. In the illustrated example, the rib spacing 976 is greater than the groove spacing 916. The illustrated configuration accommodates dimensional tolerances of the grooves 911, 912, 913 and ribs 971, 972, 973.

[0119] The ribs 971, 972, 973 distribute (e.g., share) the load of the shaft 910 along multiple interfaces 935 axially along the ring 950. In some embodiments, the ribs 971,972, 973 share the load equally. Each interface 935 is provided by a thrust face 924 of a groove 911, 912, 913 bearing against a thrust face 974 of the corresponding rib 971, 972,973. The multiple interfaces 935 provide a larger interface area between the shaft 910 and the ring 950 compared to a conventional snap ring interface. When present, the square shaped grooves 911. 912, 913 help to further increase the surface area of the interfaces 935 between the shaft 910 and ring 950. Compared to a conventional snap ring interface, the combined surface area of interfaces 935 increases the load capacity of the shaft 910, and thereby enhances overall thrust load capacity of the shaft 910.

[0120] In some embodiments, one or more of the interfaces 935 are rounded in a plane parallel to, and through, the longitudinal axis 901. In some embodiments, one or more of the interfaces 935 are not rounded in a plane parallel to, and through, the longitudinal axis 901. In some embodiments, one or more of the interfaces 935 are planar. In some embodiments, one or more of the interfaces 935 are not planar.

[0121] Thus, the ribs 971-973 improve load distribution of the axial load from the shaft 910 to the thrust runner 420. Additionally, the grooves 911-913 may be shallower than a conventional groove in a shaft configured to receive a conventional rectangular snap ring since the load is being shared at multiple interfaces 935 along the shaft. In other words, reduced load per groove permits shallower grooves that leave a greater diameter of the material of the shaft 910 for carrying torque.

[0122] Additionally, the lower axial load per groove permits a larger comer radius in the bottom of each groove 911, 912, 913 of the shaft 910 than is feasible in a single groove for a conventional snap ring without making the grooves 911, 912, 913 deeper than a snapring groove and without consequentially reducing the torque capacity. The larger radius reduces the stress concentration factor compared to the stress concentration factor for an equivalent snap ring groove. For instance, in conventional snap ring designs, the radius generally does not exceed 50% of the groove depth, whereas the load sharing assembly 940 allows a radius that ranges from 50% up to 100% of the depth of the grooves 911. 912, 913 of the shaft 910.

[0123] In some embodiments, the axial spacing of the grooves 911-913 of the shaft 910 (e g., groove spacing 916) may be the same as the axial spacing of the ribs 971-973 (e.g., rib spacing 976). In some embodiments, the axial spacing of the grooves 911-913 may be different from the axial spacing of the ribs 971-973. For example, the grooves 911-913 may be spaced closer together or farther apart than the ribs 971-973.

[0124] In some embodiments, the ring 960 may be formed from a softer, more malleable, material with an axial stiffness less than the axial stiffness of the material used to form the shaft 910 to facilitate load distribution between the interfaces 935 between the ring 960 and the shaft 910 under load. For example, the shaft 910 may be formed from a hardened steel while the ring 960 is formed from a mild steel. The first groove 911, the second groove 912, and the third groove 913 are spaced apart by a first axial spacing distance while the first rib 971, the second rib 972, and the third rib 973, are spaced apart by a second axial spacing distance greater than the first axial spacing distance. The differences in the axial spacing distance and material of the shaft 910 and ring 960 helps the ring 960 deform into contact with the shaft 910 to distribute the axial load along all three ribs 971-973. In other words, the grooves 911-913 on the shaft are spaced more closely than the ribs 971-973 to match their spacing under load and achieve contact in all grooves 911-913.

[0125] In some embodiments, the shaft 910 and the ring 960 have equivalent axial stiffness, such as having the same cross-sectional area and the same modulus of elasticity. The first groove 911, the second groove 912, and the third groove 913 are spaced apart by a first axial spacing distance. The first rib 971, the second rib 972, and the third rib 973, are spaced apart by a second axial spacing distance that is equivalent to the first axial spacing distance. In other w ords, the spacing of the grooves 911-913 on the shaft 910 and the ribs 971-973 of the ring 960 may be equal so that they are matched under load.

[0126] In some embodiments, the shaft 910 may be formed from a softer, more malleable, material with an axial stiffness less than the axial stiffness of the material used to form the ribs 971 -973, to facilitate load distribution between the interfaces 935 between the ring 960 and the shaft 910 under load. For example, the shaft 910 may be formed from a mild steel while the ring 960 may be formed from a hardened steel. The first groove 911, the second groove 912, and the third groove 913 are spaced apart by a first axial spacing distance while the first rib 971, the second rib 972, and the third rib 973, are spaced apart by a second axial spacing distance that is less than the first axial spacing distance. The differences in the axial spacing distance and material of the shaft 910 and ring 960 helps the ring 960 deform into contact with the shaft 910 to distribute the axial load along all three ribs 971-973. In other words, the grooves 911-913 on the shaft are spaced more closely than the ribs 971-973 to match their spacing under load and achieve contact in all grooves 911-913.

[0127] In some embodiments, another collar or other component may be installed on the shaft 910 to retain the ring 960 within the collar 950.

[0128] FIG. 10 schematically illustrates a cross-section of a motor protector 1000 to show an exemplary load sharing assembly 1040 to facilitate transferring the axial load of the shaft 1010 to a thrust runner 1020. In some embodiments, the thrust runner 1020 is an annular member configured to transfer the axial load T to another component, such as a thrust bearing (described below-), a spacer, a bulkhead, a spring, or other thrust-resisting component. The load sharing assembly 1040 may be incorporated into the motor protector 126 of FIG. 1 and may be part of the thrust bearing system 148.

[0129] As shown, the motor protector 1000 has a shaft 1010 disposed within a housing 1002 of the motor protector 1000. The shaft 1010 is rotatable about the longitudinal axis 1001 by the motor 122. The shaft 1010 includes a grooved section 1011 with a plurality of grooves 1012 formed on the exterior of the shaft 1010. As shown, the grooves 1012 are '’V' shaped grooves that are spaced axially along the shaft 1010. The shaft 1010 also includes a first key ay 1015 to interface with a key 1025 to rotationally couple the shaft 1010 to a thrust runner 1020 of the motor protector 1000.

[0130] The thrust runner 1020 engages a thrust bearing 1090 (such as a dow n thrust bearing) of the motor protector 1000 and the ring 1050. The thrust runner 1020 includes afirst side 1021 and a second side 1022 opposite the first side 1021, and an interior surface1023 defining a bore 1027 that extends from the first side 1021 to the second side 1022. The interior surface 1023 includes a second key way 1024. The first side 1021 is engaged with the load sharing assembly 1040 to receive the axial load from the shaft 1010. The second side 1022 of the thrust runner 1020 is engaged with the thrust bearing 1090 of the motor protector 1000.

[0131] The interior surface 1023 of the thrust runner 1020 includes a first surface portion 1023a defining a first bore portion 1027a of the bore 1027 and a second surface portion 1023b defining a second bore portion 1027b of the bore 1027. The first surface portion 1027a includes an abutment shoulder 1028 at a first end of the first bore portion 1027a. As shown in FIG. 10, the first bore portion 1027a has a larger diameter than the second bore portion 1027b. In some embodiments, the first surface portion 1023a has threads corresponding to threads on the exterior surface 1051 of the ring 1050.

[0132] The second key way 1024 may extend along the second bore portion 1027b from the abutment shoulder 1028 to the second side 1022. In other words, the key way may terminate at the abutment shoulder 1028 rather than extending along part of the first bore portion 1027a. A key 1025 may be inserted into the first keyway 1015 and second key way 1024 to rotationally connect the shaft 1010 to the thrust runner 1020. The key 1025 may have a length such that the key 1025 extends from the abutment shoulder 1028 to the second side 1022.

[0133] The load sharing assembly 1040 includes a ring 1050 disposed around the shaft 1010 that is engaged with the grooved section 1011. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 10, the ring 1050 is at least partially disposed in the thrust runner 1020, such as being disposed in the first bore portion 1027a and engaged with the abutment shoulder 1028.

[0134] The ring 1050 includes an exterior surface 1051 and an interior surface 1052. The interior surface 1052 defines a bore through the ring 1050 that the shaft 1010 is disposed within. The interior surface 1052 includes a ribbed section 1053 that includes a plurality of ribs 1054 that have a profile complementary to the grooves 1012. In some embodiments, the ribs 1054 are “V” shaped ribs as shown in FIG. 10. The ribbed section 1053 is configured to engage and interlock with the grooved section 101 1, such as each rib 1054 being disposed in and engaged with a corresponding groove 1012 of the grooved section 1011. The ribs 1054 distribute (e.g., share) the load of the shaft 1010 alongmultiple interfaces 1035 axially along the ring 1050. The multiple interfaces 1035 provide a larger interface area between the shaft 1010 and the ring 1050 compared to a conventional snap ring interface. Compared to a conventional snap ring interface, the surface area of interfaces 1035 increases the load capacity of the shaft 1010, and thereby enhances overall thrust load capacity of the shaft 1010. Additionally, the “V” shaped grooves 1012 and ribs 1054 improves the stress concentration factor.

[0135] In some embodiments, one or more of the interfaces 1035 are rounded in a plane parallel to, and through, the longitudinal axis 1001. In some embodiments, one or more of the interfaces 1035 are not rounded in a plane parallel to, and through, the longitudinal axis 1001. In some embodiments, one or more of the interfaces 1035 are planar. In some embodiments, one or more of the interfaces 1035 are not planar.

[0136] The load of the shaft 1010 transferred to the ring 1050 is then transferred from the ring 1050 to the thrust runner 1020 by the interface between the ring 1050 and the thrust runner, such as the engagement of an end shoulder 1055 of the ring 1050 with the abutment shoulder 1028 of the thrust runner 1020. The axial load applied to the thrust runner 1020 may then be applied to the thrust bearing 1090 engaged with the second side 1022 of the thrust runner 1020 to facilitate rotation of the shaft 1010 and thrust runner 1020 while the axial load is applied.

[0137] In some embodiments, the ring 1050 may be a multi-component ring rather than a single ring. For example, and as shown in FIG. 10, the ring 1050 may be a two- piece ring with a first ring portion 1050a (e.g., first ring half, first half circle) and a second ring portion 1050b (e.g., second ring half, second half circle) that are engageable with the shaft 1010. Each piece of the ring 1050, such as the first ring portion 1050a and second ring portion 1050b, each have a portion of the ribbed section 1053. For example, the first ring portion 1050a and second ring portion 1050b may each half the ribs 1054 that make up the ribbed section 1053.

[0138] In some embodiments, the load sharing assembly 1040 includes a snap ring 1060 abutting an end of the ring 1050 opposite of the end shoulder 1055 to remove axial play of the ring 1050 w ithin the thrust runner 1020. The snap ring 1060 may be partially disposed in a groove 101 of the shaft 1010.

[0139] FIG. 11 schematically illustrates a cross-section of a motor protector 1100 to show an exemplary’ load sharing assembly 1 140 to facilitate transferring the axial load ofthe shaft 1110 to a thrust runner 1120. In some embodiments, the thrust runner 1120 is an annular member configured to transfer the axial load T to another component, such as a thrust bearing (described below), a spacer, a bulkhead, a spring, or other thrust-resisting component. The load sharing assembly 1140 may be incorporated into the motor protector 126 of FIG. 1 and may be part of the thrust bearing system 148.

[0140] As shown, the motor protector 1100 has a shaft 1110 disposed within a housing 1102 of the motor protector 1100. The shaft 1110 is rotatable about the longitudinal axis 1101 by the motor 122. The shaft 11 10 includes a grooved section 1111 with a plurality7of grooves 1112 formed on the exterior of the shaft 1110. As shown, the grooves 1112 are square shaped grooves that are spaced axially along the shaft 1110. In other words, the grooves 1112 are separated from one another axially along the shaft 1110. In some embodiments, the grooves 11 12 include at least one of a square shaped profile or a rounded profile. The shaft 1110 also includes a first key way 1115 to interface with a key 1125 to rotationally couple the shaft 1110 to a thrust runner 1120 of the motor protector 1100.

[0141] The thrust runner 1120 engages a thrust bearing 1190 (such as a down thrust bearing) of the motor protector 1100 and the ring 1150. The thrust runner 1120 includes a first side 1121 and a second side 1122 with an interior surface 1123 defining a bore 1127 that extends from the first side 1121 to the second side 1122. The interior surface 1123 includes a second key way 1124. The first side 1121 is engaged with the load sharing assembly 1140 to receive the axial load from the shaft 1110. The second side 1122 of the thrust runner 1120 is engaged with the thrust bearing 1190 of the motor protector 1 100..

[0142] The interior surface 1123 of the thrust runner 1120 includes a first surface portion 1 123a defining a first bore portion 1127a of the bore 1 127 and a second surface portion 1123b defining a second bore portion 1127b of the bore 1127. The first surface portion 1127a includes an abutment shoulder 1128 at a first end of the first bore portion 1127a. As shown in FIG. 11, the first bore portion 1127a has a larger diameter than the second bore portion 1127b. In some embodiments, the first surface portion 1123a has threads corresponding to threads on the exterior surface 1151 of the ring 1150.

[0143] The second keyway 1 124 may extend along the second bore portion 1 127b from the abutment shoulder 1128 to the second side 1122. In other words, the key way may terminate at the abutment shoulder 1128 rather than extending along part of the firstbore portion 1127a. A key 1125 may be inserted into the first keyway 1115 and second key way 1124 to rotationally connect the shaft 1110 to the thrust runner 1120. The key 1125 may have a length such that the key 1125 extends from the abutment shoulder 1128 to the second side 1122.

[0144] The load sharing assembly 1140 includes a ring 1150 disposed around the shaft 1110 that is engaged with the grooved section 1111. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 11. the ring 1150 is at least partially disposed in the thrust runner 1120. such as being disposed in the first bore portion 1127a and engaged with the abutment shoulder 1128.

[0145] The ring 1150 includes an exterior surface 1151 and an interior surface 1152. The interior surface 1152 defines a bore through the ring 1150 that the shaft 1110 is disposed within. The interior surface 1152 includes a ribbed section 1153 that includes a plurality of ribs 1154, each having a profile complementary to the grooves 1112. such as by including at least one of a square shaped profile or a rounded profile. In some embodiments, the ribs 1154 are square shaped ribs as shown in FIG. 11. The ribbed section 1153 is configured to engage and interlock with the grooved section 1111, such as each rib 1154 being disposed in and engaged with a corresponding groove 1112 of the grooved section 1111. The ribs 1154 distribute (e.g., share) the load of the shaft 1 110 along multiple interfaces 1135 axially along the ring 1150. In some embodiments, the ribs 1154 share the load equally. The multiple interfaces 1135 provide a larger interface area between the shaft 1110 and the ring 1150 compared to a conventional snap ring interface. When present, the square shaped grooves 1112 help to further increase the surface area of the interfaces 1 135 between the shaft 1110 and ring 1150. Compared to a conventional snap ring interface, the surface area of interfaces 1135 increases the load capacity of the shaft 1110, and thereby enhances overall thrust load capacity of the shaft 1110.

[0146] In some embodiments, one or more of the interfaces 1135 are rounded in a plane parallel to, and through, the longitudinal axis 1101. In some embodiments, one or more of the interfaces 1135 are not rounded in a plane parallel to, and through, the longitudinal axis 1101. In some embodiments, one or more of the interfaces 1135 are planar. In some embodiments, one or more of the interfaces 1135 are not planar.

[0147] The load of the shaft 11 10 transferred to the ring 1150 is then transferred from the ring 1150 to the thrust runner 1 120 by the interface between the ring 1150 and the thrust runner, such as the engagement of an end shoulder 1155 of the ring 1150 with the abutment shoulder 1128 of the thrust runner 1120. The axial load applied to the thrust runner 1120 may then be applied to the thrust bearing 1190 engaged with the second side 1122 of the thrust runner 1120 to facilitate rotation of the shaft 1110 and thrust runner 1120 while the axial load is applied.

[0148] In some embodiments, the ring 1150 may be a multi-component ring rather than a single ring. For example, and as shown in FIG. 11, the ring 1150 may be a two- piece ring with a first ring portion 1150a(e.g., first ring half, first half circle) and a second ring portion 1150b (e.g., second ring half, second half circle) that are engageable with the shaft 1110. Each piece of the ring 1150, such as the first ring portion 1150a and second ring portion 1150b, each include a portion of the ribbed section 1153. For example, each of the first ring portion 1150a and second ring portion 1150b may include corresponding halves of each rib 1154 that make up the ribbed section 1153.

[0149] In some embodiments, the load sharing assembly 1140 includes a snap ring 1160 abutting an end of the ring 1150 opposite of the end shoulder 1155 to remove axial play of the ring 1 150 within the thrust runner 1120. The snap ring 1160 may be partially disposed in a groove 1116 of the shaft 1110.

[0150] FIG. 12 schematically illustrates a cross-section of a motor protector 1200 to show an exemplary’ load sharing assembly 1240 to facilitate transferring the axial load of the shaft 1210 to a thrust runner 420. The load sharing assembly 1240 may be incorporated into the motor protector 126 of FIG. 1 and may be part of the thrust bearing system 148. The motor protector 1200 includes certain similar components to the motor protector 400 shown in FIG 4 as indicated by the reference signs without reciting the description of these components for brevity.

[0151] As shown, the motor protector 1200 has a shaft 1210 disposed within a housing (not shown). The shaft 1210 is rotatable about the longitudinal axis 1201 by the motor 122. The shaft 1210 includes a grooved section 1211 that interfaces with the load sharing assembly 1240 to transfer the axial load to the load sharing assembly 1240. As shown, the grooved section 1211 includes two grooves 1212 that each have a shoulder 1214 that can engage a rib 1273 of the load sharing assembly 1240 at interface 1235. Insome embodiments, the grooves 1212 include at least one of a square shaped profile or a rounded profile. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 12, the grooves 1212 are each partially defined by adjacent protrusions 1213 (e.g., circumferential ribs) that extend from the exterior of the shaft 1210 beyond the normal outer diameter of the shaft 1210. In other words, the shoulder 1214 may be the shoulder of a protrusion 1213. The shaft 1210 may also have a second key way 1215 that is engageable with the key 425 to rotationally couple the shaft 1210 to the thrust runner 420.

[0152] The load sharing assembly 1240 includes a collar 1250, aplurality of trap rings 1270 (such as two, three, four, or more), and an abutment ring 1280. The trap ring 1270 that is disposed adjacent the abutment ring 1280 is denoted as trap ring 1270’. A rib 1273 of each trap ring 1270 is disposed in a corresponding groove 1212 of the grooved section 1211. In some embodiments, each rib 1273 includes at least one of a square shaped profile or a rounded profile. In some embodiments, the profile of each rib 1273 corresponds to the profile of the respective groove 1212. The plurality of ribs 1273 facilitate distributing the axial load of the shaft 1210 along multiple interfaces 1235 between the shaft 1210 and the load sharing assembly 1240. For example, and as shown in FIG. 12, the load sharing assembly 1240 includes two trap rings 1270. The multiple interfaces 1235 provide a larger interface area between the shaft 1210 and the ring 1250 compared to a conventional snap ring interface. When present, the square shaped grooves 1212 help to further increase the surface area of the interfaces 1235 between the shaft 1210 and ring 1250. Compared to a conventional snap ring interface, the surface area of interfaces 1235 increases the load capacity of the shaft 1210, and thereby enhances overall thrust load capacity of the shaft 1210.

[0153] In some embodiments, one or more of the interfaces 1235 are rounded in a plane parallel to, and through, the longitudinal axis 1201. In some embodiments, one or more of the interfaces 1235 are not rounded in a plane parallel to, and through, the longitudinal axis 1201. In some embodiments, one or more of the interfaces 1235 are planar. In some embodiments, one or more of the interfaces 1235 are not planar.

[0154] In some embodiments, the trap rings 1270 are not threaded to the collar 1250, as shown in FIG. 12. In some embodiments, one or more of the trap rings 1270 are threaded to the collar 1250. The collar 1250 (e.g., a keeper ring) facilitates the transfer of the axial load to the first side of the thrust runner 420. The collar 1250 also is configured to retain the trap rings 1270 in position and to prevent extrusion of the traprings 1270. The collar 1250 includes a first end 1251 and a second end 1252 engaged with the first side 421 of the thrust runner 420.

[0155] The second end 1252 of the collar 1250 includes a flange 1256 that separates the abutment ring 1280 from the thrust runner 420. The flange 1256 extends radially inwardly towards the shaft 1210. In some embodiments, the flange 1256 includes an abutment shoulder 1257 on one side and the second end 1252 on the other. The flange 1256 separates the abutment ring 1280 from the thrust runner 420, which may become heated due to friction at an interface between the thrust runner 420 and the thrust bearing (not shown). In some embodiments, a thickness of the flange 1256 between the second end 1252 and the abutment shoulder 1257 mitigates heat transfer between the thrust runner 420 and the abutment ring 1280. In some embodiments, a material of the flange 1256 mitigates heat transfer between the thrust runner 420 and the abutment ring 1280. In an example, the flange 1256 may be made of a ceramic material. In other words, the flange 1256 may be configured to facilitate maintaining the abutment ring 1280 at a lower temperature than the thrust runner 420 when the thrust runner 420 becomes heated due to friction at an interface between the thrust runner 420 and the thrust bearing.

[0156] The collar 1250 further includes an interior surface 1253 defining a bore 1255 extending from the first end 1251 to the second end 1252. The interior surface 1253 includes a first surface portion 1253a defining a first bore portion 1255a of the bore 1255 and a second surface portion 1253b defining a second bore portion 1255b of the bore 1255. The first surface portion 1253a includes the abutment shoulder 1257 at a first end of the first bore portion 1255a. As shown in FIG. 12, the first bore portion 1255a has a larger diameter than the second bore portion 1255b. As illustrated, the first surface portion 1253a is not threaded. However, in some embodiments, at least a portion of the first surface portion 1253a may be threaded to engage complementary threads of at least one of the trap rings 1270.

[0157] The trap rings 1270 are disposed within the first bore portion 1255a and are disposed around the shaft 1210. In some embodiments, the periphery of the trap rings 1270 are engaged with the first surface portion 1253a. Each trap ring 1270 includes a first ring side 1271 and a second ring side 1272. Each trap ring 1270 includes a rib 1273 that protrudes into a bore of the trap ring 1270 that the shaft 1210 is partially disposed within. In some embodiments, the ribs 1273 may be square or rectangular ribs 1273 that fully or partially extend circumferentially around the shaft 1210. The grooves 1212 havea complementary profile to the ribs 1273, such as having a square shape as shown in FIG.12.

[0158] As shown in FIG. 12, in some embodiments, a set of one or more shims 1290 may be disposed between both of the trap rings 1270 to achieve desired spacing betw een the tw o trap rings 1270. In some embodiments, the one or more shims 1290 are omitted. The first ring side 1271 of trap ring 1270' faces a second end 1282 of the abutment ring 1280. One or more shims 1290 may be disposed between the first ring side 1271 of trap ring 1270’ and the second end 1282 of the abutment ring 1280 to achieve a desired spacing. In some embodiments, the one or more shims 1290 are omitted, and the second end 1282 of the abutment ring 1280 engages the first ring side 1271 of the trap ring 1270’.

[0159] The abutment ring 1280 is shown as having a generally rectangular cross section. In some embodiments, the abutment ring 1280 may have a generally square cross-section. A first end 1281 of the abutment ring 1280 is engaged with the abutment shoulder 1257 of the collar 1250. Axial load transferred to the trap rings 1270 is transferred to the abutment ring 1280 which then transfers the axial load to the collar via the interface with the abutment shoulder 1257. The axial load is then transferred to the thrust runner 420 via the contact between the thrust runner 420 and the collar 1250.

[0160] In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 12, the second end 1282 of the abutment ring 1280 may abut one of the protrusions 1213 extending from the shaft 1210. In some embodiments, the abutment ring 1280 may be partially disposed in a groove formed on the exterior surface of the shaft 1210.

[0161] In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 12, the abutment ring 1280 is disposed in a non-threaded portion of the first inner surface portion 1253a. In some embodiments, the abutment ring 1280 may be threaded to the interior surface 1253 of the collar 1250.

[0162] In some embodiments, another collar may be disposed around the shaft 1210 and abutted with a trap ring 1270 to retain the trap rings 1270 within the collar 1250.

[0163] In some embodiments, the trap rings 1270 and abutment ring 1280 may be made of a material that has an axial stiffness less than the material forming the collar 1250 and the shaft 1210. Thus, the trap rings 1270, such as the ribs 1273, and the abutment ring 1280 may experience localized deformation to achieve a tight contact between thetrap rings 1270 and the shaft 1210 and tight contact between the abutment ring 1280 and the collar 1250.

[0164] In some embodiments, each trap ring 1270 may be a multi-component ring rather than a single ring. For example, and as shown in FIG. 12, each trap ring 1270 may be a two-piece ring with a first ring portion 1270a (e.g., first ring half, first half circle) and a second ring portion 1270b (e.g., second ring half, second half circle) that are engageable with the grooved section 1211 of the shaft 1210. Each piece of each trap nng 1270, such as the first ring portion 1270a and second ring portion 1270b, includes a portion of the rib 1273. For example, the first ring portion 1270a and second ring portion 1270b may each have half of a rib 1273. The abutment ring 1280 may similarly be a multi-component ring, such as being two ring halves disposed within the collar 1250. For example, FIG. 12 shows the abutment ring 1280 as having a first ring portion 1280a and a second ring portion 1280b.

[0165] FIG. 13 schematically illustrates a cross-section of a motor protector 1300 to show an exemplary’ load sharing assembly 1340 to facilitate transferring the axial load of the shaft 1310 to a thrust runner 1320. In some embodiments, the thrust runner 420 is an annular member configured to transfer the axial load T to another component, such as a thrust bearing (described below), a spacer, a bulkhead, a spring, or other thrust-resisting component. The load sharing assembly 1340 may be incorporated into the motor protector 126 of FIG. 1 and may be part of the thrust bearing system 148.

[0166] As shown, the motor protector 1300 has a shaft 1310 disposed within a housing 1302 of the motor protector 1300. The shaft 1310 is rotatable about the longitudinal axis 1301 by the motor 122. The shaft 1310 includes a groove section 1311 with a groove 1312 formed on the exterior of the shaft 1310. As shown, the groove 1312 has a chamfered profile, with the groove 1312 having a first groove chambered portion 1312a, a second groove chamfered portion 1312b, and an intermediate groove portion 1312c that is disposed between the first and second groove chamfered portions 1312a.b. The shaft 1310 also includes a first key way 1315 to interface with a key 1325 to rotationally couple the shaft 1310 to a thrust runner 1320 of the motor protector 1300.

[0167] The first and second groove chamfered portions 1312a,b are each defined by a surface of the shaft 1310 that extends at an angle away from the intermediate groove portion 1312c towards the normal outer diameter of the shaft 1310. In someembodiments, and as shown in FIG. 13. the first and second groove chamfered portions 1312a,b extend at the same angle and have the same length. In some embodiments, the first and second groove chamfered portions 1312a,b are each defined by a surface that extends at different angle and / or have different length relative to each other. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 13, the intermediate groove portion 1312c has a planar profile. In other words, the intermediate groove portion 1312c defines the outer surface of a cylindrical section of the shaft 1310 between the first and second groove chamfered portions 1312a,b. In some embodiments, the intermediate groove portion 1312c has a non-planar profile.

[0168] The thrust runner 1320 engages a thrust bearing 1390 (such as a down thrust bearing) of the motor protector 1300 and the ring 1350. The thrust runner 1320 includes a first side 1321 and a second side 1322 with an interior surface 1323 defining a bore 1327 that extends from the first side 1321 to the second side 1322. The interior surface 1323 includes a second key way 1324. The first side 1321 is engaged with the load sharing assembly 1340 to receive the axial load from the shaft 1310. The second side 1322 is engaged with a thrust bearing 1390 of the motor protector 1300.

[0169] The interior surface 1323 of the thrust runner 1320 includes a first surface portion 1323a defining a first bore portion 1327a of the bore 1327 and a second surface portion 1323b defining a second bore portion 1327b of the bore 1327. The first surface portion 1327a includes an abutment shoulder 1328 at a first end of the first bore portion 1327a. As shown in FIG. 13, the first bore portion 1327a has a larger diameter than the second bore portion 1327b. In some embodiments, the first surface portion 1323a has threads corresponding to threads on the exterior surface 13 1 of the ring 1350.

[0170] The second keyway 1324 may extend along the second bore portion 1327b from the abutment shoulder 1328 to the second side 1322. In other words, the key way may terminate at the abutment shoulder 1328 rather than extending along part of the first bore portion 1327a. A key 1325 may be inserted into the first key way 1315 and second keyway 1324 to rotationally connect the shaft 1310 to the thrust runner 1320. The key 1325 may have a length such that the key 1325 extends from the abutment shoulder 1328 to the second side 1322.

[0171] The load sharing assembly 1340 includes a ring 1350 disposed around the shaft 1310 that is engaged with the groove section 1311. In some embodiments, and asshown in FIG. 13. the ring 1350 is at least partially disposed in the thrust runner 1320. such as being disposed in the first bore portion 1327a and engaged with the abutment shoulder 1328.

[0172] The ring 1350 includes an exterior surface 1351 and an interior surface 1352. The interior surface 1352 defines a bore through the ring 1350 that the shaft 1310 is disposed within. The interior surface 1352 includes a rib section 1353 that includes a single rib 1354 that has a profile complementary to the groove 1312. The rib section 1353 is configured to engage and interlock with the groove section 1311, such that the rib 1354 is disposed in and engaged with the groove 1312 of the groove section 1311. The rib 1354 distributes the load of the shaft 1310 along alarger surface area at as compared to a conventional snap ring which increases the longevity of the shaft 1310 as compared to a conventional snap ring.

[0173] As shown, the single rib 1354 has a chamfered profile, with the rib 1354 having a first rib chambered portion 1354a, a second rib chamfered portion 1354b, and an intermediate rib portion 1354c that is disposed between the first and second rib chamfered portions 1354a, b.

[0174] The first and second rib chamfered portions 1354a,b are each defined by a portion of the surface of the shaft 1310 that extends at an angle away from the intermediate rib portion 1354c towards the normal inner diameter of the interior surface 1352. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 13, the first and second rib chamfered portions 1354a,b extend at the same angle and have the same length. In some embodiments, the first and second rib chamfered portions 1354a,b are each defined by a surface that extends at different angle and / or have different length relative to each other. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 13, the intermediate rib portion 1354c has a planar profile. In other words, the intermediate rib portion 1354c defines the outer surface of a cylindrical section of the bore of the ring 1350 between the first and second rib chamfered portions 1354a.b. In some embodiments, the intermediate rib portion 1354c has a non-planar profile.

[0175] The first rib chamfered portion 1354a is complementary to and faces the first groove chamfered portion 1312a. The second rib chamfered portion 1354b is complementary to and faces the second groove chamfered portion 1312b. The intermediate rib portion 1354a is complementary to and faces the intermediate grooveportion 1312c. When a downward thrust load (e.g.. axial load applied in direction of arrow labeled Thrust) is applied to the shaft 1310, the first rib chamfered portion 1354a contacts the first groove chamfered portion 1312a.

[0176] The load of the shaft 1310 transferred to the ring 1350 is then transferred from the ring 1350 to the thrust runner 1320 by the interface between the ring 1350 and the thrust runner, such as the engagement of an end shoulder 1355 of the ring 1350 with the abutment shoulder 1328 of the thrust runner 1320. The axial load applied to the thrust runner 1320 may then be applied to the thrust bearing 1390 engaged with the second side 1322 of the thrust runner 1320 to facilitate rotation of the shaft 1310 and thrust runner 1320 while the axial load is applied.

[0177] In some embodiments, the ring 1350 may be a multi-component ring rather than a single ring. For example, and as shown in FIG. 13, the ring 1350 may be a two- piece ring with a first ring portion 1350a (e.g., first ring half, first half circle) and a second ring portion 1350b (e.g., second ring half, second half circle) that are engageable with the shaft 1310. Each piece of the ring 1350, such as the first ring portion 1350a and second ring portion 1350b, each have a portion of the rib section 1353. For example, the first ring portion 1350a and second ring portion 1350b may each have half of the single rib 1354.

[0178] In some embodiments, the load sharing assembly 1340 includes a snap ring 1360 abutting an end of the ring 1350 opposite of the end shoulder 1355 to remove axial play of the ring 1350 within the thrust runner 1320. The snap ring 1360 may be partially disposed in a groove 1316 of the shaft 1310.

[0179] The ribs disclosed herein may extend circumferentially around the shaft. In some embodiments, each rib may be a plurality of discontinuous arc segments that extend about a portion of the circumference of the shaft.Example Aspects

[0180] The following are some exemplary aspects of the systems and apparatus of the present disclosure. One or more features of each exemplary aspect may be omitted. Each exemplary aspect may include one or more additional features, such as a feature of the present disclosure. Other aspects besides those presented below may include one or more other features of the present disclosure.

[0181] Aspect 1: An assembly, including: a thrust runner; a shaft extending through the thrust runner, the shaft including a plurality of grooves formed in an exterior surface of the shaft; a ring including an interior surface defining a bore, the interior surface including a plurality of ribs protruding into the bore, each rib engaged with a corresponding groove of the plurality of grooves; and a collar disposed around the shaft and the ring, the collar including a flange engaged with the thrust runner between the thrust runner and the ring.

[0182] Aspect 2: The assembly of Aspect 1, in which: an axial stiffness of the shaft is greater than an axial stiffness of the ring; and a spacing between adjacent ribs of the plurality of ribs is greater than a spacing between corresponding adjacent grooves of the plurality of grooves.

[0183] Aspect 3: The assembly of Aspect 1, in which: an axial stiffness of the shaft is less than an axial stiffness of the nng; and a spacing between adjacent ribs of the plurality of ribs is less than a spacing between corresponding adjacent grooves of the plurality of grooves.

[0184] Aspect 4: The assembly of Aspect 1, in which: the shaft and the ring are of equivalent axial stiffness; and a spacing between adjacent ribs of the plurality of ribs is equivalent to a spacing between corresponding adjacent grooves of the plurality of grooves.

[0185] Aspect 5: The assembly of any one of Aspects 1 to 4. in which: a first rib of the plurality of ribs is engaged with a first groove of the plurality of grooves; a thrust face of the first rib abuts a thrust face of the first groove; a second rib of the plurality’ of ribs is engaged with a second groove of the plurality of grooves; and a thrust face of the second rib abuts a thrust face of the second groove.

[0186] Aspect 6: The assembly of Aspect 5, in which: a third rib of the plurality of ribs is engaged with a third groove of the plurality of grooves; and a thrust face of the third rib abuts a thrust face of the third groove.

[0187] Aspect 7: The assembly of any one of Aspects 1 to 6, in which: the ring includes a first ring segment disposed about the shaft circumferentially adjacent to a second ring segment.

[0188] Aspect 8: The assembly of any one of Aspects 1 to 7, in which: the ring is engaged with an abutment shoulder of the flange.

[0189] Aspect 9: The assembly of any one of Aspects 1 to 8, further including: a first key way in the thrust runner; a second key way in the exterior surface of the shaft; and a key engaged with the first key way and with the second key way.

[0190] Aspect 10: An assembly, including: a thrust runner including a first side, a second side opposite the first side, and a first interior surface extending from the first side to the second side defining a first bore, the first interior surface including an abutment shoulder; a shaft extending through the first bore of the thrust runner, the shaft including a plurality of grooves formed in an exterior surface of the shaft; and a ring including a second interior surface defining a second bore, the second interior surface including a plurality of ribs protruding into the second bore, each rib engaged with a corresponding groove of the plurality of grooves; in which the ring is at least partially disposed in the first bore, and a first end of the ring is engaged with the abutment shoulder.

[0191] Aspect 11 : The assembly of Aspect 10. in which: a first portion of the first bore of the thrust runner extends from the first surface to the abutment shoulder and a second portion of the first bore extends from the abutment shoulder to the second surface, and the first portion of the first bore has a diameter greater than a diameter of the second portion of the first bore.

[0192] Aspect 12: The assembly of Aspect 11. further including: a first key way in the second portion of the first bore of the thrust runner; a second keyway in the exterior surface of the shaft; and a key engaged with the first keyway and with the second keyway.

[0193] Aspect 13: The assembly of Aspect 12, in which: the first keyway extends from the second side of the thrust runner to the abutment shoulder.

[0194] Aspect 14: The assembly of any one of Aspects 10 to 13, in which: the ring includes a first ring segment disposed circumferentially adjacent a second ring segment about the shaft.

[0195] Aspect 15: The assembly of any one of Aspects 10 to 14, in which: each rib includes one of a V-shaped profile, a rounded profile, or a square shaped profile.

[0196] Aspect 16: An assembly, including: a thrust runner; a shaft extending through the thrust runner, the shaft including a plurality of grooves formed in an exterior surface of the shaft; a plurality of first rings disposed around the shaft, each first ring including a first interior surface defining a first bore, each first interior surface including a rib protruding into the first bore, each rib engaged with a corresponding groove of theplurality of grooves; a second ring disposed around the shaft, the second ring including a second interior surface defining a second bore engaged with the exterior surface of the shaft; and a collar disposed around the shaft and the plurality of first rings, the collar including a flange engaged with the thrust runner and between the thrust runner and second the ring.

[0197] Aspect 17: The assembly of Aspect 16, in which: each first ring of the plurality of first rings includes a first ring segment disposed about the shaft circumferentially adjacent to a second ring segment.

[0198] Aspect 18: The assembly of any one of Aspects 16 or 17, in which: the second ring is engaged with an abutment shoulder of the flange.

[0199] Aspect 19: The assembly of any one of Aspects 16 to 18, in which: a shim is disposed between adjacent first rings of the plurality' of first rings.

[0200] Aspect 20: The assembly of any one of Aspects 16 to 19, in which: adjacent ribs of the plurality of first rings are separated by a first spacing; adjacent grooves of the plurality of grooves are separated by a second spacing; and the first spacing is different from the second spacing.

[0201] Aspect 21 : An assembly, including: a shaft having a longitudinal axis; a sleeve disposed about a shaft, the sleeve having a first end including a first shoulder, a second end including a second shoulder; a trap ring disposed about the shaft such that a third shoulder of the trap ring faces towards the second end of the sleeve, and a fourth shoulder of the trap ring faces away from the second end of the sleeve; a first retainer disposed in a first groove of the shaft, and engaged with the first shoulder; a second retainer disposed in a second groove of the shaft; and an insert disposed between the second shoulder of the sleeve and the third shoulder of the trap ring, such that the fourth shoulder abuts the second retainer and the first shoulder abuts the first retainer.

[0202] Aspect 22: The assembly of Aspect 21, in which: each of the first retainer and the second retainer includes one of a snap ring or a wire.

[0203] Aspect 23: The assembly of any one of Aspects 21 or 22, in which: a first interface between the second groove and the second retainer is rounded in a plane parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0204] Aspect 24: The assembly of Aspect 23. in which: the fourth shoulder is at least partially disposed about the second retainer.

[0205] Aspect 25: The assembly of Aspect 24, in which: a second interface between the fourth shoulder and the second retainer is rounded in the plane parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0206] Aspect 26: The assembly of any one of Aspects 21 to 25, in which: the insert is a biasing element configured to bias the fourth shoulder into engagement with the second retainer and bias the first shoulder into engagement with the first retainer; and the biasing element includes at least one of a wave spring, a curved disk, a Belleville spring, a bowed washer, a helical spring, or an elastic member.

[0207] Aspect 27: The assembly of any one of Aspects 21 to 26, in which: the insert includes a snap ring, a C-ring, a shim, or a plurality of interlocking members.

[0208] Aspect 28: An assembly, including: a thrust runner; a shaft disposed through the thrust runner, the shaft including: a longitudinal axis; and an exterior surface including a first groove and a second groove; a first retainer disposed in the first groove; a second retainer disposed in the second groove; a first trap nng disposed around the shaft, the first trap ring including a first side and a second side opposite the first side, the second side including a first shoulder engaged with the first retainer; and a second trap ring disposed around the shaft, the second trap ring including a third side engaged with the second side of the first trap ring, and a fourth side opposite the third side, the fourth side including a second shoulder engaged with the second retainer.

[0209] Aspect 29: The assembly of Aspect 28. further including: a collar disposed around the first and second trap rings, whereby an end of the collar is engaged with the thrust runner.

[0210] Aspect 30: The assembly of Aspect 29, in which: an interior surface of the collar includes an abutment shoulder; and the first side of the first trap ring is engaged with the abutment shoulder.

[0211] Aspect 31: The assembly of any one of Aspects 28 to 30, further including: a third retainer disposed in a third groove of the shaft; a fourth retainer disposed in a fourth groove of the shaft; a third trap ring disposed around the shaft, the third trap ring including a fifth side engaged with the fourth side of the second trap ring, and a sixth side opposite the fifth side, the sixth side including a third shoulder engaged with the third retainer; anda fourth trap ring disposed around the shaft, the fourth trap ring including a seventh side engaged with the sixth side of the third trap ring, and an eighth side opposite the seventh side, the eighth side including a fourth shoulder engaged with the fourth retainer.

[0212] Aspect 32: The assembly of any one of Aspects 28 to 31, in which: each of the first and second trap rings are formed from a material that is softer than a material of each corresponding first or second retainer.

[0213] Aspect 33: The assembly of any one of Aspects 28 to 32, in which: the first shoulder is at least partially disposed about the first retainer.

[0214] Aspect 34: The assembly of Aspect 33, in which: a first interface between the first groove and the first retainer is rounded in a plane parallel to the longitudinal axis; and a second interface between the first shoulder and the first retainer is rounded in the plane parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0215] Aspect 35: An assembly, including: a thrust runner; a shaft disposed through the thrust runner, an exterior surface of the shaft including a first helical groove; a nut disposed around the shaft, the nut having a first interior surface including a second helical groove aligned with the first helical groove; and a wire including a first portion disposed in the first helical groove and a second portion disposed in the second helical groove.

[0216] Aspect 36: The assembly of Aspect 35, further including: a collar disposed around the shaft, and further in which: an end of the collar is engaged with the thrust runner; the collar has a second interior surface including an abutment shoulder; and a first end of the nut is engaged with the abutment shoulder.

[0217] Aspect 37: The assembly of any one of Aspects 35 or 36. in which: the wire includes a plurality of segments arranged in a helical pattern around the shaft.

[0218] Aspect 38: The assembly of any one of Aspects 35 to 37, in which: the nut is formed from a material that is softer than a material of any one of: the wire, a collar disposed around the shaft and engaged with the nut, or the shaft.

[0219] Aspect 39: The assembly of any one of Aspects 35 to 38, in which: a first interface between the first helical groove and the wire is rounded in a plane parallel to the longitudinal axis; and a second interface between the second helical groove and the wire is rounded in the plane parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0220] Aspect 40: The assembly of Aspect 39. further including: a trap ring including a first ring side engaged with the thrust runner and a second ring side including a rounded shoulder; and a retainer disposed in a rounded groove of the exterior surface of the shaft, the retainer engaged with the rounded shoulder.

[0221] Aspect 41 : An assembly, including: a thrust runner including a first side and a second side; a shaft disposed through the thrust runner, the shaft including a longitudinal axis and a groove formed on an exterior surface; a retainer disposed in the groove; a first threaded member disposed around the shaft, the first threaded member including an exterior surface that includes first threads, the first threaded member further including a first shoulder at an end thereof engaged with the first side of the thrust runner; and a second threaded member disposed around the shaft, the second threaded member including second threads engaged with the first threads of the first threaded member, whereby the second threaded member is rotatable relative to the first threaded member between a first position in which a second shoulder of the second threaded member is disengaged from the retainer, and a second position in which the second shoulder is engaged with the retainer.

[0222] Aspect 42: The assembly of Aspect 41, in which: at least one of the first threaded member or the second threaded member includes a hole in an exterior surface thereof, the hole configured to receive one or more of a tightening tool or a locking member.

[0223] Aspect 43: The assembly of any one of Aspects 41 or 42, in which: the retainer includes one or more of a rounded wire, a snap ring, or a plurality of segments.

[0224] Aspect 44: The assembly of any one of Aspects 41 to 43, in which: a first interface between the groove and the retainer is rounded in a plane parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0225] Aspect 45: The assembly of Aspect 44, in which: when the second threaded member is in the second position, the second shoulder is at least partially disposed about the retainer.

[0226] Aspect 46: The assembly of Aspect 45, in which: a second interface between the second shoulder and the retainer is rounded in the plane parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0227] Aspect 47: The assembly of any one of Aspects 41 to 46, further including: a key engaged with a first keyway in the shaft and with a second keyway in the thrust runner.

[0228] Aspect 48: The assembly of Aspect 47, in which: the second keyway extends from the first side to the second side of the thrust runner.

[0229] Aspect 49: An assembly, including: a thrust runner including a first side and a second side; a shaft disposed through the thrust runner, the shaft including a longitudinal axis and a groove formed on an exterior surface; a retainer disposed in the groove; a first threaded member disposed around the shaft, the first threaded member including an exterior surface that includes first threads, the first threaded member further including a first shoulder at an end thereof; and a second threaded member disposed around the shaft, the second threaded member including: second threads engaged with the first threads of the first threaded member; and a second shoulder engaged with the retainer; whereby the first threaded member is rotatable relative to the second threaded member between a first position in which the first shoulder of the first threaded member is disengaged from the first side of the thrust runner, and a second position in which the first shoulder is engaged with the first side of the thrust runner.

[0230] Aspect 50: The assembly of Aspect 49, in which: at least one of the first threaded member or the second threaded member includes a hole in an exterior surface thereof, the hole configured to receive one or more of a tightening tool or a locking member.

[0231] Aspect 51 : The assembly of any one of Aspects 49 or 50, in which: the retainer includes one or more of a rounded wire, a snap ring, or a plurality of segments.

[0232] Aspect 52: The assembly of any one of Aspects 49 to 51, in which: a first interface between the groove and the retainer is rounded in a plane parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0233] Aspect 53: The assembly of Aspect 52, in which: the second shoulder is at least partially disposed about the retainer.

[0234] Aspect 54: The assembly of Aspect 53, in which: a second interface between the second shoulder and the retainer is rounded in the plane parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0235] Aspect 55: An assembly, including: a shaft including a longitudinal axis and a groove formed on an exterior surface; a retainer disposed in the groove; and a shoulder assembly including: a first threaded member disposed around the shaft, the first threaded member including an exterior surface that includes first threads, the first threaded member further including a first shoulder at an end thereof; and a second threaded member disposed around the shaft, the second threaded member including a second shoulder at an end thereof and second threads engaged with the first threads of the first threaded member; whereby relative rotation between the first and second threaded members adjusts the threaded assembly between: a first position in which at least one of the first shoulder or the second shoulder is disengaged from the retainer; and a second position in which the first shoulder and the second shoulder are engaged with the retainer.

[0236] Aspect 56: The assembly of Aspect 55, in which: at least one of the first threaded member or the second threaded member includes a hole in an exterior surface thereof, the hole configured to receive one or more of a tightening tool or a locking member.

[0237] Aspect 57: The assembly of any one of Aspects 55 or 56, in which: the retainer includes one or more of a rounded wire, a snap ring, or a plurality of segments.

[0238] Aspect 58: The assembly of any one of Aspects 55 to 57, in which: a first interface between the groove and the retainer is rounded in a plane parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0239] Aspect 59: The assembly of Aspect 58, in which: when the shoulder assembly is in the second position, a second interface between the first shoulder of the first threaded member and the retainer is rounded in the plane parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0240] Aspect 60: The assembly of Aspect 59, in which: when the shoulder assembly is in the second position, a third interface between the second shoulder of the second threaded member and the retainer is rounded in the plane parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0241] It is contemplated that any one or more elements or features of any one disclosed embodiment or example may be beneficially incorporated in any one or more other non-mutually exclusive embodiments or examples. While the foregoing is directed to embodiments of the present disclosure, other and further embodiments of the disclosure may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof, and the scope thereof is determined by the claims that follow.

[0242] The following claims are not intended to be limited to the aspects shown herein, but are to be accorded the full scope consistent with the language of the claims. Within a claim, reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean “one and only one'’ unless specifically so stated, but rather “one or more.’' Unless specifically stated otherwise, the term “some” refers to one or more. No claim element is to be construed under the provisions of 35 U.S.C. §1 12(f) unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase “means for”. All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the various aspects described throughout this disclosure that are known or later come to be known to those of ordinary skill in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be encompassed by the claims. Moreover, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether such disclosure is explicitly recited in the claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. An assembly, comprising: a thrust runner; a shaft extending through the thrust runner, the shaft including a plurality of grooves formed in an exterior surface of the shaft; a ring including an interior surface defining a bore, the interior surface including a plurality' of ribs protruding into the bore, each rib engaged with a corresponding groove of the plurality of grooves; and a collar disposed around the shaft and the ring, the collar including a flange engaged with the thrust runner between the thrust runner and the ring.

2. The assembly of claim 1. wherein: an axial stiffness of the shaft is greater than an axial stiffness of the ring; and a spacing between adjacent ribs of the plurality of ribs is greater than a spacing between corresponding adjacent grooves of the plurality' of grooves.

3. The assembly of claim 1. wherein: an axial stiffness of the shaft is less than an axial stiffness of the ring; and a spacing between adjacent ribs of the plurality of ribs is less than a spacing between corresponding adjacent grooves of the plurality of grooves.

4. The assembly of claim 1, wherein: the shaft and the ring are of equivalent axial stiffness; and a spacing between adjacent ribs of the plurality of ribs is equivalent to a spacing between corresponding adjacent grooves of the plurality of grooves.

5. The assembly of claim 1, wherein: a first rib of the plurality' of ribs is engaged with a first groove of the plurality of grooves; a thrust face of the first rib abuts a thrust face of the first groove; a second rib of the plurality of ribs is engaged with a second groove of the plurality of grooves; and a thrust face of the second rib abuts a thrust face of the second groove.

6. The assembly of claim 5, wherein: a third rib of the plurality of ribs is engaged with a third groove of the plurality of grooves; and a thrust face of the third rib abuts a thrust face of the third groove.

7. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the ring includes a first ring segment disposed about the shaft circumferentially adjacent to a second ring segment.

8. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the ring is engaged with an abutment shoulder of the flange.

9. The assembly of claim 1. further comprising: a first key way in the thrust runner; a second key way in the exterior surface of the shaft; and a key engaged with the first key way and with the second key way.

10. An assembly, comprising: a thrust runner including a first side, a second side opposite the first side, and a first interior surface extending from the first side to the second side defining a first bore, the first interior surface including an abutment shoulder; a shaft extending through the first bore of the thrust runner, the shaft including a plurality of grooves formed in an exterior surface of the shaft: and a ring including a second interior surface defining a second bore, the second interior surface including a plurality of ribs protruding into the second bore, each rib engaged with a corresponding groove of the plurality of grooves; wherein the ring is at least partially disposed in the first bore, and a first end of the ring is engaged with the abutment shoulder.

11. The assembly of claim 10. wherein a first portion of the first bore of the thrust runner extends from the first side to the abutment shoulder and a second portion of the first bore extends from the abutment shoulder to the second side, and the first portion of the first bore has a diameter greater than a diameter of the second portion of the first bore.

12. The assembly of claim 11, further comprising: a first key way in the second portion of the first bore of the thrust runner; a second key way in the exterior surface of the shaft; and a key engaged with the first key way and with the second key way.

13. The assembly of claim 12, wherein the first keyway extends from the second side of the thrust runner to the abutment shoulder.

14. The assembly of claim 10, wherein the ring includes a first ring segment disposed circumferentially adjacent a second ring segment about the shaft.

15. The assembly of claim 10, wherein each rib includes one of a V-shaped profile, a rounded profile, or a square shaped profile.

16. An assembly, comprising: a thrust runner; a shaft extending through the thrust runner, the shaft including a plurality of grooves formed in an exterior surface of the shaft; a plurality of first rings disposed around the shaft, each first ring including a first interior surface defining a first bore, each first interior surface including a rib protruding into the first bore, each rib engaged with a corresponding groove of the plurality of grooves; a second ring disposed around the shaft, the second ring including a second interior surface defining a second bore engaged with the exterior surface of the shaft; and a collar disposed around the shaft and the plurality of first rings, the collar including a flange engaged with the thrust runner and between the thrust runner and second the ring.

17. The assembly of claim 16, wherein each first ring of the plurality of first rings includes a first ring segment disposed about the shaft circumferentially adjacent to a second ring segment.

18. The assembly of claim 16, wherein the second ring is engaged with an abutment shoulder of the flange.

19. The assembly of claim 16, wherein a shim is disposed between adjacent first rings of the plurality of first rings.

20. The assembly of claim 16, wherein: adj acent ribs of the plurality of first rings are separated by a first spacing; adjacent grooves of the plurality7of grooves are separated by a second spacing; and the first spacing is different from the second spacing.

21. An assembly comprising: a shaft having a longitudinal axis; a sleeve disposed about a shaft, the sleeve having a first end including a first shoulder, a second end including a second shoulder; a trap ring disposed about the shaft such that a third shoulder of the trap ring faces towards the second end of the sleeve, and a fourth shoulder of the trap ring faces away from the second end of the sleeve; a first retainer disposed in a first groove of the shaft, and engaged with the first shoulder; a second retainer disposed in a second groove of the shaft; and an insert disposed between the second shoulder of the sleeve and the third shoulder of the trap ring, such that the fourth shoulder abuts the second retainer and the first shoulder abuts the first retainer.

22. An assembly comprising: a thrust runner including a first side and a second side; a shaft disposed through the thrust runner, the shaft including a longitudinal axis and a groove formed on an exterior surface; a retainer disposed in the groove; a first threaded member disposed around the shaft, the first threaded member including an exterior surface that includes first threads, the first threaded member further including a first shoulder at an end thereof engaged with the first side of the thrust runner; anda second threaded member disposed around the shaft, the second threaded member including second threads engaged with the first threads of the first threaded member, wherein the second threaded member is rotatable relative to the first threaded member between a first position in which a second shoulder of the second threaded member is disengaged from the retainer, and a second position in which the second shoulder is engaged with the retainer.

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