Low drag rotating assembly

Abstract

A rotating assembly for a turf treatment vehicle having a rotating component. The rotating component has an exterior side supported by an inner wall defining an interior region through which a shaft extends. A bearing assembly supporting the rotating component for rotation about the shaft can be provided. A seal arrangement located within the interior region at a location axially outward from the bearing assembly can also be provided. The seal arrangement can include an outer perimeter in contact with the rotating component inner wall, a first seal surface configured to provide a seal in a radial direction and a second seal surface configured to provide a seal in an axial direction and biased longitudinally outward. One or more elastic members may be provided for each of the first and second seal surfaces.

Description

LOW DRAG ROTATING ASSEMBLYRELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63 / 677,071, filed July 30, 2024, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] This invention relates to low drag rotating assemblies, and in particular those associated with machines used for treatment of turf surfaces, such as mowers and turf rollers.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Rotating components requiring bearings and lubrication seals are used in many different aspects of machines used for the treatment of turf surfaces. For example, mowers having horizontal cutting reels or decks that house one or more cutting blades are frequently supported by rollers that contact the ground surface. In some examples, such rollers hold the blades at an appropriate height above the ground and prevent the blades from scalping the turf. Turf rollers, sometimes termed greens rollers, also utilize rollers which frequently require bearings and seals to ensure proper operation. While bearings and seals are known in the art for such rotating components, improvements are desired.SUMMARY

[0004] A rotating assembly for a turf treatment vehicle can include a rotating component extending between a first end and a second end along a longitudinal axis, the rotating component having an exterior side supported by an inner wall defining an interior region; a shaft extending through the interior region and defining an outer surface; a bearing assembly supporting the rotating component for rotation about the shaft; and a seal arrangement located within the interior region at a location axially outward from the bearing assembly, the seal arrangement including: an outer perimeter in contact with the rotating component inner wall; a first seal surface configured to provide a seal in a radial direction; an elastic member providing acompressive force to the first seal surface in a radially inward direction; and a second seal surface configured to provide a seal in an axial direction and biased longitudinally outward.

[0005] In some examples, the bearing assembly is a sealed bearing having a double bearing seal on a first side of the bearing assembly facing the seal arrangement.

[0006] In some examples, the bearing assembly has a single bearing seal on a second side opposite the first side and facing away from seal arrangement.

[0007] In some examples, the elastic member comprises a garter spring.

[0008] In some examples, an end part is provided including an annular base structure defining a central aperture through which the shaft extends, and including a radial wall structure extending radially from the base structure in a direction towards the rotating component inner wall, wherein: the first seal surface is in sealing contact with the end part base structure; the elastic member provides the compressive force to the first seal surface against the end part base structure; and the second seal surface is in sealing contact with an inner surface of the end part radial wall structure.

[0009] In some examples, the seal arrangement includes a first extension member defining the first sealing surface and a second extension member defining the second sealing surface.

[0010] In some examples, one or both of the first and second extension members extends at an oblique angle to the longitudinal axis.

[0011] In some examples, the second extension member extends at an oblique angle to the longitudinal axis in an axial direction away from the bearing assembly and in a radial direction away from the shaft.

[0012] In some examples, the rotating component exterior side is one of a wheel, a roller, and a drum configured for rolling contact with the turf.

[0013] In some examples, the rotating component exterior side is a cutting real rotating about a horizontal axis and configured for mowing the turf.

[0014] In some examples, the rotating component exterior side rotates about a vertical axis.

[0015] In some examples, the rotating component exterior is a cutting blade.

[0016] In some examples, the inner surface of the end part radial wall structure is an axial facing surface.

[0017] In some examples, the seal arrangement is rotationally fixed with respect to the rotating component inner wall .

[0018] In some examples, the end part is rotationally fixed to the shaft.

[0019] In some examples, the end part and shaft are provided with cooperating threads.

[0020] In some examples, the bearing assembly includes an outer race, in non-rotating contact with the rotating component inner wall, and includes an inner race, in non-rotating contact with the shaft outer surface.

[0021] In some examples, a lubrication passageway is provided extending from an axial end of the shaft to the shaft outer surface at a location between the first seal surface and the bearing assembly.

[0022] In some examples, the shaft inner wall has a first section within which the bearing assembly is mounted and a second section, adjacent the first section, for receiving the bearing assembly during installation, wherein the second section has a diameter that is greater than a diameter associated with the first section.

[0023] In some examples, the bearing assembly and seal arrangement include a first bearing assembly and a first seal arrangement located proximate the rotating component first end and include a second bearing assembly and a second seal arrangement located proximate the rotating component second end.

[0024] A roller assembly for a turf treatment vehicle can include a roller extending between a first end and a second end along a longitudinal axis, the roller having an exterior surface configured for rolling ground contact and having an inner wall defining an interior region; a shaft extending through the interior region and defining an outer surface; a bearing assembly supporting the roller for rotation about the shaft, wherein the bearing assembly is a sealed bearing having a double bearing seal on a first side of the bearing assembly facing axially outward and a single bearing seal on a second side of the bearing assembly opposite the first side, wherein the second side faces axially inward; an end part including an annular base structure, defining a central aperture through which the shaft extends, and including a radial wall structure, extending radially from the base structure in a direction towards the roller inner wall; and a seal arrangement located within the roller interior region at a location between the bearing assembly and the end part radial wall structure, the seal arrangement extending radially outward from the shaft.

[0025] In some examples, the seal arrangement comprises: an outer perimeter in contact with the roller inner wall; a first seal surface in sealing contact with the end part base structure and beingforced against the end part base structure by a garter spring; and a second seal surface in sealing contact with an inner surface of the end part radial wall structure.

[0026] In some examples, the seal arrangement includes a first extension member defining the first sealing surface and a second extension member defining the second sealing surface.

[0027] In some examples, one or both of the first and second extension members extends at an oblique angle to the longitudinal axis.

[0028] In some examples, the second extension member extends at an oblique angle to the longitudinal axis in an axial direction away from the bearing assembly and in a radial direction away from the shaft.

[0029] A seal arrangement, for providing a seal between a shaft assembly and a rotating component disposed about the shaft assembly, can include: an outer casing arrangement extending along a longitudinal axis and defining a radially outward facing perimeter surface; a first extension member supported by the outer casing arrangement, the first extension member defining a first seal surface facing in a radially inward direction; a garter spring disposed about the first extension member and arranged to provide a compressive force to the first seal surface; and a second extension member supported by the outer casing arrangement, the second extension member extending at an oblique angle to the longitudinal axis in an axial direction away from the first seal surface and in a radial direction away from the longitudinal axis, the second extension member defining a second seal surface facing in an axial direction at a location radially outward of the first seal surface.

[0030] In some examples, the first extension member extends in at least an axial direction.

[0031] In some examples, the first extension member and the second extension member extend axially in the same direction.

[0032] In some examples, the first extension member extends at an oblique angle to the longitudinal axis in an axial direction towards the first seal surface and in a radial direction towards the longitudinal axis.

[0033] In some examples, the first extension member is associated with a first seal part and the second extension member is associated with a second seal part that is separately formed from the first seal part.

[0034] In some examples, the first and second extension members are part of an integrally formed seal member.

[0035] In some examples, the outer casing arrangement includes a first casing part supporting the first extension member and a second casing part supporting the second extension member.

[0036] In some examples, a closed cavity is provided that is located between the outer casing arrangement and the first and second extension members.

[0037] In some examples, the outer casing arrangement defines an interior cavity within which a seal arrangement associated with the first and second extension members is at least partially disposed, wherein the seal arrangement forms a partition that provides a barrier to lubricant entering a first portion of the interior cavity.

[0038] A rotating assembly for a turf treatment vehicle can include a rotating component extending between a first end and a second end along a longitudinal axis, the rotating component having an exterior side supported by an inner wall defining an interior region; a shaft extending through the interior region and defining an outer surface; a bearing assembly supporting the rotating component for rotation about the shaft; and a seal arrangement located within the interior region at a location axially outward from the bearing assembly, the seal arrangement including: an outer perimeter in contact with the rotating component inner wall; a first extension member presenting a first seal surface configured to provide a seal in a radially inward direction; a second extension member extending at an oblique angle to the longitudinal axis and presenting a second seal surface configured to provide a seal in an axial direction and biased longitudinally outward.

[0039] In some examples, the second extension member extends away from the longitudinal axis as the first extension member extends from a base portion towards the second seal surface.

[0040] In some examples, the first extension member extends at an oblique angle to the longitudinal axis.

[0041] In some examples, the first extension member extends towards the longitudinal axis as the first extension member extends from a base portion towards the first seal surface.

[0042] In some examples, an elastic member is included that provides a radially inward compressive force against the first extension member.

[0043] In some examples, the elastic member is a garter spring.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0044] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the description, illustrate several aspects of the present disclosure. A brief description of the drawings listed below.

[0045] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a ground machine having a plurality of mowing units with features in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0046] Figure 2 is a perspective bottom view of cutting unit associated with the ground machine shown in Figure 1.

[0047] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a rotating assembly configured as a roller assembly associated with the units of the ground machine shown in Figure 1.

[0048] Figure 4 is a partial exploded perspective view of the roller assembly shown in Figure 3.

[0049] Figure 5 is a partial cross-sectional view of the roller assembly shown in Figure 3.

[0050] Figure 5A is a partial cross-sectional view of the roller assembly that is similar toFigure 5, but in which the outer surface of the shaft is illustrated rather than being presented in cross-section.

[0051] Figure 6 is a partial cross-sectional view of the roller assembly shown in Figure 3, with a lubrication path associated with the roller assembly being illustrated.

[0052] Figure 7 is a first perspective view of a seal assembly associated with the roller assembly shown in Figure 3.

[0053] Figure 8 is a second perspective view of the seal assembly shown in Figure 7.

[0054] Figure 9 is a first side view of the seal assembly shown in Figure 7.

[0055] Figure 10 is an end view of the seal assembly shown in Figure 7.

[0056] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of the seal assembly shown in Figure 7, taken along the line 11-11 in Figure 10.

[0057] Figure 12 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the seal assembly shown in Figure 11.

[0058] Figure 12A is a partial cross-sectional view of an alternate seal assembly usable with the roller assembly shown in Figure 3.

[0059] Figure 13 is a first perspective view of a sealed bearing assembly associated with the roller assembly shown in Figure 3.

[0060] Figure 14 is a second perspective view of the sealed bearing assembly shown in Figure 13.

[0061] Figure 15 is an exploded perspective view of the sealed bearing assembly shown in Figure 13.

[0062] Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view of the sealed bearing assembly shown in Figure 13.

[0063] Figure 17 is a partial cross-sectional view of the sealed bearing assembly shown in Figure 13.

[0064] Figure 17A is a partial cross-sectional view of a variation of the sealed bearing assembly shown in Figure 13.

[0065] Figure 18 is a perspective view of a second example of a roller assembly usable with the ground machine shown in Figure 1.

[0066] Figure 19 is a partial exploded perspective view of the roller assembly shown inFigure 18.

[0067] Figure 20 is a partial cross-sectional view of the roller assembly shown in Figure 18.

[0068] Figure 21 is a partial cross-sectional view of the roller assembly shown in Figure 18.

[0069] Figure 22 is a partial cross-sectional view of the roller assembly shown in Figure 18.

[0070] Figure 23 is a partial side view of a shaft usable in a rotating assembly associated with the ground machine shown in Figure 3, the shaft including a bearing pilot feature.

[0071] Figure 24 is a partial cross-sectional view of the shaft shown in Figure 23 with a bearing assembly mounted thereon.

[0072] Figure 25 is a partial cross-sectional view of a variation of the roller assembly shown in Figure 18.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0073] Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary aspects of the present disclosure that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts.Ground Machine 1

[0074] Referring to Figure 1, a ground machine 1 for treating a turf surface is presented. In the particular example shown, the ground machine l is a configured as a riding mower with a plurality of grass cutting units 40 having one or more roller assemblies 50. Ground machine 1may be configured as other types of vehicles that include roller assemblies 50. For example, ground machine 1 may be configured as a turf or greens roller, a walk-behind mower, a mower with one or more decks housing cutting blades that rotate about a vertical axis, and others. In one aspect, the ground machine 1 includes a chassis 10 having a vehicle frame 12 and a plurality of ground traction members 14. In the example shown, ground traction members 14 are shown as being wheels but may be any type of ground traction members, such as tracks. In the example shown, the ground machine 1 has two front wheels 14 and a steerable rear wheel 14. The ground machine 1 is also shown as being provided with an operator control station 20 including an operator seat, steering wheel, and controls for operating the functions of the ground machine 1. The ground machine 1 is also provided with a prime mover 30 operably supported by the chassis 10 and configured to drive the ground traction members 14 and, optionally, the grass cutting units 40. The prime mover 30 can be an internal combustion engine or a battery and one or more associated electric motors.

[0075] As noted above, the ground machine 1 is provided with a plurality of grass cutting units 40. In the example shown, the ground machine 1 is provided with three front grass cutting units 40 located at the front of the ground machine 1 and spaced apart from one another by small gaps. Two trailing grass cutting units 40, only one of which is viewable in Figure 1, are mounted to the ground machine 1 between the front and rear wheels 14. Additional trailing grass cutting units 40 are positioned to cover the gaps between front grass cutting units 40 so that all of the grass cutting units 40 collectively cut a single wide swath of grass as the ground machine 1 moves over the ground.

[0076] In one aspect, and with reference to Figure 2, each grass cutting unit 40 can include a frame 42 that includes spaced side plates and a transverse back plate. A rotatable reel 44 having helical blades is journalled between the side plates and in front of the back plate and rotates about a generally horizontal axis during operation on a level ground surface. A sharpened bedknife 46 cooperates with reel 44 such that rotation of reel 44 sweeps uncut grass against the bedknife to sever the grass. In one aspect, each reel 44 is rotated by a drive system which may comprise a mechanical drive powered directly by the prime mover 30 or by a separate drive motor 48, either hydraulic or electric, connected to reel 44.

[0077] In one aspect, each grass cutting unit 40 is self-supporting for rolling over the ground by one or more rollers 50. In the example shown, each grass cutting unit 40 is provided with a front roller assembly 50a and a rear roller assembly 50b. As shown, the front roller assembly 50a may be grooved as shown and configured as a Wiehle roller. The rear roller can be provided with a smooth cylindrical roller. Together, front and rear rollers 50a, 50b support grass cutting unit 40 for rolling over the ground.

[0078] The foregoing description of ground machine 1 and of grass cutting unit 40 has been provided for background purposes only. This disclosure relates to improved bearing and sealing arrangements usable with the rollers 50, 50a, 50b which may also be used with many types of mowers, including rotary mowers having grass cutting units that include one or more blades rotating in horizontal cutting planes. Further, the disclosed bearing and sealing arrangements disclosed herein can be used in other types of rotating components such as within reel 44 and rollers associated with turf or greens rollers. As such, the disclosure is not limited to the ground machine shown herein or to a mower equipped with grass cutting units having reels.Roller Assembly 50

[0079] With reference to Figures 3 to 17, aspects of a first example of a roller assembly 50 including the aforementioned bearing and sealing arrangements are presented. In some implementations, roller assembly 50 may be used as the front roller assembly 50a of the grass cutting units 40. Roller assembly 50 may also be more broadly referred to as a rotating assembly 50.

[0080] In the example shown, and as most easily viewed at Figure 4, roller assembly 50 includes a roller body 60 formed or otherwise attached to a hollow tube 70, a shaft 80 extending through the hollow tube 70, an end part 90 secured to an end of the shaft 80, a seal arrangement 100 arranged to provide a seal between the end part 90 and the hollow tube 70, and a bearing assembly 200 rotatably supporting the hollow tube 70 and roller body 60 about the shaft 80. Roller assembly 50 is also shown as including a lubrication or grease fitting 92 attached to hollow ends of the shaft 80, as is discussed in more detail below. It is noted that Figures 4 to 6 illustrate one end of the roller assembly 50 and that a similarly configured end part 90, grease fitting 92, seal arrangement 100, and bearing assembly 200 are provided on the opposite end ofthe shaft 80 and hollow tube 70 in the same manner. In the examples shown, the shaft 80 is held in a stationary position while the roller body 60, hollow tube 70, and seal arrangement 100 rotate about the shaft during movement of the ground machine 1. However, in other applications, the roller body 60 / hollow tube 70 may be configured as a stationary structure where the shaft 80 is rotatable. In some examples, both the shaft 80 and the roller body 60 / hollow tube 70 are rotatable with respect to some fixed reference point. In the examples presented herein, the shaft 80 and roller body60 / hollow tube 70 can be characterized as having relative rotational movement by virtue of the bearing assemblies 200 provided therebetween.

[0081] Referring to Figures 5 and 6, the assemblage of the roller assembly 50 is further illustrated. As shown, the roller body 60 is provided with a plurality of transversely spaced annular ribs 60a separated by grooves 60b to provide a Wiehle roller, as noted above. The roller body 60 may be alternatively provided as a shouldered Wiehle roller in which the outermost grooves are provided with a larger diameter in comparison to the innermost grooves. The roller body 60 may also be shaped as a full or solid roller in which the outer surface of the roller body is generally cylindrical and smooth. In the example shown, the roller body 60 is disposed about and supported by the hollow tube 70. In some examples, the roller body 60 is formed from a polymeric material and is molded onto the hollow tube 70. The roller body 60 can also be separately formed and later mounted to the hollow tube 70. In some examples, the roller body 60 and the hollow tube 70 are provided as a single, integrally formed component, such as is the case when the roller assembly 50 is configured as a solid roller, for example, a solid metal roller. In such cases, the hollow tube 70 can be referred to as being formed by or a portion of the roller body 60. Roller assembly 550, described later and shown at Figures 18-22, provides an example of a roller body and hollow tube 70 being integrally formed as a single component. In examples, the roller body 60 and / or the hollow tube 70 can be referred to as being a rotating component while the shaft 80 can be referred to as a stationary component that does not rotate with respect to the ground machine 1.

[0082] With continued reference to Figures 5 and 6, it can be seen that the hollow tube 70 is provided with an outer surface 70a, about which the roller body 60 is disposed, and an inner surface 70b defining an interior cavity or region 70c. In one aspect, the inner surface 70b includes a first section 70e extending between an open end 70d of the hollow tube 70 to a second section 70f, extending at an oblique angle to a longitudinal axis X of the roller assembly 50. Thesecond section 70f extends inwardly at an oblique angle towards the longitudinal axis X to a third section 70g which in turn extends to a shoulder section 70h extending orthogonally to the longitudinal axis X. The first and third sections 70e, 70g extend in a direction that is generally parallel with the longitudinal axis X and such that the first section 70e has a diameter that is larger than that of the third section 70g.

[0083] As referenced in Figure 5, the shaft 80 is provided with an outer surface 80a that extends from an end 80b of the shaft 80 with multiple sections 80c, 80e, 80g, 80i extending parallel to the longitudinal axis X that are joined by steps 80d, 80f, 80h extending orthogonally to the longitudinal axis X. As configured, section 80e has a greater diameter than that of section 80c, section 80g has a greater diameter than that of section 80e, and section 80i has a diameter that is greater than that of section 80g. In the example shown, section 80e is provided with outwardly facing threads 80j configured for engagement with corresponding inwardly facing threads 90e of the end part 90.

[0084] With continued reference to Figure 5, it can be seen that the end part 90 is formed in this example as a single component defining an axially extending wall structure 90a from which a radially extending wall structure 90b extends. In one aspect, the radial wall structure 90b defines an axially inward facing wall surface 90f and has a cross-sectional shape that forms a general L- shape that extends towards but does not contact inner surface 70b of the hollow tube 70. As shown, on an axial inward side of the wall structure 90b, the wall structure 90a defines a radially outward facing wall surface 90c. On an axial outward side of the wall structure 90b, the wall structure 90a defines an outer surface 90d configured with a generally polygonal shape configured for interfacing with a tool such that the end part 90 can be threaded onto the threads 80j of the shaft via inwardly facing threads 90e defined by the wall structure 90a. In one aspect, and as described further below, the radially outward facing surface 90c and the axially inward facing surface 90f of the end part 90 present surfaces against which the seal arrangement 100 can form a seal.

[0085] With the above-described configuration of the hollow tube 70 and the shaft 80, the bearing assembly 200 can be installed within the interior region 70 such that an outer race of the bearing assembly 200 contacts section 70g and abuts section 70h, while an inner race of the bearing assembly 200 contacts section 80g and abuts section 80h. The sections 70h and 80h,which may be referred to as shoulders, ensure that the bearing assembly 200, once installed, has a fixed innermost axial position within the interior region 70c. In some applications, the bearing assembly 200 can be press fit onto one or both of the hollow tube 70 and shaft 80. Once the bearing assembly 200 is so installed, the seal arrangement 100 can be inserted into the interior region 70c such that the seal arrangement 100 abuts the outer race of the bearing assembly and such that an outer surface of the seal arrangement 100 contacts the section 70e of the outer tube 70. The installation of the seal arrangement 100 can be performed by mounting the seal arrangement 100 directly within the interior region 70c, for example by pressing the seal arrangement 100 into the hollow tube 70. In some examples, an adhesive can be applied onto the outside diameter of the seal arrangement 100 before insertion to enhance sealing and securement to the hollow tube 70. Once installed, the end part can be installed onto the shaft 80, for example by threading. When so installed, and as explained in more detail below, the seal arrangement 100 seals off the open end 70d between the end part 90 and the hollow tube 70 such that the bearing assembly 200 is protected against ingress of debris and contaminants via the open end 70d. The fit between the seal arrangement 100 and hollow tube 70 is such that passage of contaminants therethrough is prevented or otherwise severely restricted.Seal Arrangement 100

[0086] Referring to Figures 7 to 12A, aspects of the seal arrangement 100 are shown in further detail. In some examples, the seal arrangement 100 is a multi-component assembly including an annular first seal part 110, an annular second seal part 120, and an elastic member 115 that are housed partially within annular first and second casing parts 130, 140. As most easily seen at Figure 12, the first casing part 130 is formed with an L-shaped cross-section having a radially extending first wall 130a adjoining an axially extending second wall 130b. The second casing part 140 is shown as being formed with an L-shaped or a slight U-shaped cross-section having a radially extending first wall 140a adjoining an axially extending second wall 140b which in turn adjoins a relatively short radially extending third wall 140c. As constructed, the first casing part 130 is received by the second casing part 140 such that second wall 130b abuts second wall 140b and extends between walls 140a and 140c and such that wall 130a abuts wall 140c. With such a construction, the first and second casing parts 130, 140 can be generally referred to as an outer casing or housing forming a generally U-shaped cross-section in which the walls 130a, 130b, and140a form an interior cavity 150. In some examples, one or both the first and second casing parts 130, 140 are formed from a metal material. Other materials, such as polymeric or plastic materials of varying hardness and stiffness, can also be used. For example, the first casing part 130 can be formed from a polymeric type material while the second casing part 140 can be formed from a metal material. In one example, the first casing part 130 is formed from a rubber material while the second casing part 140 is formed from steel. In some examples, the first and second casing parts 130, 140 can be provided as a single unitary component rather than two separate components that are joined together.

[0087] With continued referenced to Figure 12, it can be seen that the first seal part 110 and second seal part 120 are received within the interior cavity 150 of the outer casing 130, 140. In some examples, the first and second seal parts 110, 120 are formed from a polymeric and / or rubber material. In some examples, the first and second seal parts are formed from the same material while in other examples, the first and second seal parts are formed from different materials. Also, with respect to Figure 12A, it can be observed that the first and second seal parts 110, 120 can be formed as a single unitary structure. Such a configuration can be adapted to fit within outer casing 130, 140 or can be arranged as an entirely stand-alone structure without an outer casing. In one aspect, the first seal part 110 includes a radially extending base wall portion 110a from which spaced apart first and second axial extension 110b, IlOe extend. In one aspect, the base wall portion 110a has a notched or L-shaped surface such that the base wall portion 110a contacts two sides of the wall 130a of the casing part 130 to aid in retaining the first seal part 110 within the outer casing 130, 140. In one aspect, the extensions 110b, I lOe both extend in the same axial direction which is a direction from the base wall portion 110a and towards the second seal part 120 and wall 140a. In an installed condition of the seal arrangement 100, the extensions 110b, I lOe extend in a direction towards the end part radial wall structure 90b and the end 80b of the shaft 80, and also in a direction away from the bearing assembly 200.

[0088] The first axial extension 110b is shown as extending generally along an axis 11 Ox that is oblique to the longitudinal axis X of the seal arrangement 100 such that a distal end 11 Of of the first axial extension 110b is closer to the longitudinal axis X in comparison to a portion of the axial extension 110b proximate the base wall portion 110a. The first axial extension 110b is also shown as including a radially inward facing V-shaped seal surface 110c proximate the distal end 11 Of and an oppositely located U-shaped recess HOd for receiving the elastic member 115. Thefirst axial extension 11 Ob is deflectable in a radial direction and the elastic member 115 can thus effectuate radial movement of the extension 110b. With such an arrangement, and as most easily seen at Figure 5, the elastic member 115 can exert a radially inward compressive force to force the seal surface 110c against the radially outward facing surface 90c to form a radial seal between the seal arrangement 100 and the end part 90. In the example shown, the elastic member 115 is configured as a garter spring 115. In some examples, the elastic member 115 is formed from a material that is different from the material of the first seal part 110, such as when the elastic member 115 is provided as a garter spring formed from a coiled stainless steel wire. It is also noted that the seal arrangement 100 may be provided without the elastic member 115 and / or the corresponding recess HOd, at least in some applications. In such cases, sufficient sealing can be ensured by the elasticity of the first axial extension 110b alone. In examples, the material properties and physical dimensions (e g. length, thickness, etc.) of the first axial extension 110b can be chosen to provide for a desired sealing or biasing force at the seal surface 110c.

[0089] Referring back to Figure 12, the second seal part 120 is shown as including a radially extending base wall portion 120a from which spaced apart first and second axial extensions 120b, 120d extend. In one aspect, the first axial extension 120b is configured as a deflectable member. As shown, the second seal part 120 forms a U-shaped notch or recess 120f, formed by one or both of the base wall portion 120a and extension 120b, configured for receiving an end of the wall 140a to aid in securing the second seal part 120 within the outer casing parts 130, 140. In one aspect, the extensions 120b, 120d both extend in opposite directions with the extension 120b extending in the same axial direction as the extension 110b to define a distal end 120c of the extension 120b and of the overall seal arrangement 100. The distal end 120c can also be characterized as being or presenting an axial facing seal surface 120c such that a side and / or end surface of the distal end 120c is deflected against an axially extending surface. The extension 120d is shown as extending in an opposite axial direction towards the extension IlOe and includes an L-shaped notch 120e that receives and end of the extension HOe. With such an arrangement, the extensions IlOe, 120d contact and form a seal with each other to seal off cavity 150. As explained later in more detail, this arrangement prevents grease from entering cavity 150 which advantageously reduces the required lubrication volume of the assembly. Further, the contact between the extensions IlOe, 120d can beneficially aid inretaining the first and second seal parts 110, 120 within the outer casing parts 130, 140 by providing a resilient or spring force against the walls 140a, 130a. In some examples, an elastic member can also be provided for the second axial extension 120b of the second seal part 120. In some examples, the elastic member is a V-shaped spring that exerts an axial force between the second axial extension and some other part of the seal arrangement 100, such as the wall 140a of the casing 140.

[0090] With continued reference to Figure 12, the first axial extension 120b is shown as extending generally along an axis 120x that is oblique to the longitudinal axis X of the seal arrangement 100 such that the distal end 120c of the first axial extension 120b is further away from the longitudinal axis X in comparison to a portion of the axial extension 120b proximate the base wall portion 120a. With such an arrangement, even though the axial extensions 110b, 120b both extend axially in the same direction away from the walls 130a, 140c, the axial extensions 110b, 120b extend in radially opposite directions with the extension 110b extending in a radially inward direction and the extension 120b extending in a radially outward direction.

[0091] With the above-described sealing arrangement, the first axial extension 120b of the second seal part 120 can deflect in a radial outward and axially inward direction against the axially inward facing wall surface 90f of the end part 90 to form an axial seal between the seal arrangement 100 and the end part 90. This seal can be referred to as a weather or excluder seal that blocks ingress of contaminants and is particularly useful in preventing water ingress in applications where the roller assembly 50 is moved towards a vertical storage position. The extension 120b can also be characterized as forming a V-type seal and / or a wiper type seal. Accordingly, in combination with the radial seal formed by sealing surface 110c, the seal arrangement 100 forms a seal with the end part 90 at two different locations that face in two different directions. It is noted that the extensions 110b, 120b that define the seal surfaces 110c, 120c are not actually shown in the deflected state in the drawings and that a person skilled in the art would readily understand the deflection of the extensions 110b, 120b based on the description herein without further illustration. It is further noted that the seal arrangement 100 can be used in arrangements in which a shaft and rotating component operate in a vertical orientation.

[0092] With reference to Figure 6, it can be seen that the seal arrangement 100 forms a lubrication volume 152 between the contact points between extensions 110b, 120b and the endpart 90 via seal surfaces 110c, 120c. It can be further seen in Figure 6 that an additional lubrication volume 154 is created between the bearing assembly 200 and the contact point between the extension 110b and the end part 90, via seal surface 110c. The lubrication volume 154 is open to a lubrication port 90g of the end part 90 that extends through wall structure 90a. The lubrication port 90g is in turn open to a lubrication passageway defined within the shaft 80 having a radially extending passageway 80m and an axially extending passageway 80k. As is illustrated at Figure 5A, a ring-shaped recess 80n is provided on the surface of the shaft 80 that is axially aligned with the passageway 80m and that is about the same width as the passageway 80m. The recess 80n provides a pathway about the shaft along which lubrication can flow. The axially extending passageway 80k is open to an internal passageway defined within the lubrication fitting 92. To lubricate the assembly, an operator can connect a pump, for example a grease pump, to the lubrication fitting 92 to inject a lubricant, such as grease, into the lubrication passageways and ports 92a, 80k, 80m, 80n, 90g. With such an action, lubricant will initially fill the lubrication volume 154. With continued injection, lubricant will force the seal surface 110c away from the end part 90 such that lubricant can enter lubricant volume 152. With further injection, lubricant will displace extension member 120b and eventually exit the assembly through an open end 70d, thereby providing a visual indicator that the lubrication volumes 152, 154 are fully filled with lubricant. It is noted that a skilled operator will be able to detect this state well before grease exiting open end 70d via auditory and other feedback. Even though the extension members 110b, 120b are initially deflected due to the injection pressure of the lubricant, once the lubrication process is complete, the extension members 110b, 120b will return to their sealed states against the end part 90. Further, because the extensions IlOe, 120d contact and form a seal to reduce the volume of the cavity 150, the overall volume associated with lubricant volumes 152, 154 is significantly lower than that associated with typical prior art arrangements. In one example, the lubricant volumes 152, 154 have a volume of about .2 cubic inches in comparison to a similarly sized prior art roller assembly having a corresponding lubricant volume of about 1.1 cubic inches. This represents about an 80 percent lower volume in comparison to some prior art arrangements. In addition to saving lubricant, the lower lubricant volume also lowers the overall rolling resistance of the assembly thereby reducing parasitic losses in the assembly that load the prime mover 30.Bearing Assembly 200

[0093] Referring to Figures 13 to 17A, aspects of the bearing assembly 200 are presented in further detail. As shown, the bearing assembly 200 extends between a first axial end 200a and a second axial end 200b, and is provided with an inner race 202, an outer race 204 and a plurality of bearings 206 rotatably held within a cage 208 disposed within the inner and outer races 202, 204. On the side associated with first axial end 200a, the bearing assembly 200 is provided with an inner seal arrangement 210 and an outer seal arrangement 220 that each extend between and form a seal with the inner and outer races 202, 204. The inner and outer seal arrangements 210, 220 may be referred to as a double seal arrangement. On the side associated with the second axial end 200b, the bearing assembly 200 is provided with a seal arrangement 230 that extends between and forms a seal with the inner and outer races 202, 204. In the example shown, the seal arrangements 210, 230 are identically shaped and sized, although oppositely facing. The seal arrangement 220 is shown as having a greater face width and smaller internal diameter in comparison to the seal arrangements 210, 230. The seal arrangement 220 advantageously guards against debris or other contaminants that might otherwise damage the seal arrangement 210. Other arrangements are also possible. For example, and as shown at Figure 17A, the bearing assembly 200 can be provided with an additional fourth seal arrangement 240 such that three seal arrangements 210, 220, 230 are provided to protect the first axial end 200a. The seal arrangements 210, 220, 230, 240 can be formed from a variety of materials and attached to the inner and outer races by means known in the art. In some examples, the seal arrangements 210, 220, 230, 240 are provided as rubber coated metal washers. In some examples, the seal arrangements 210, 220, 230, 240 are received into annular grooves defined by the inner and outer races 202, 204 and are held in place via snap rings.

[0094] With such an arrangement, an internal volume 250 of the bearing assembly defined between the inner and outer races 202, 204 can be sealed by the seal arrangements 210, 220, 230 such that a lubricant can be retained within the internal volume 250. When installed within the roller assembly 50, the first axial end 200a of the bearing assembly 200 faces towards the open end 70d of the tube 70 and the seal arrangement 100, and is thus more susceptible to exposure to contaminants in comparison to the second axial end 200b. As such, the provision of two seals on the first axial end 200a can be advantageous in protecting the bearing assembly 200 and in reducing the need for the seal arrangement 100 to provide full protection of the bearing assembly200. As the second axial end 200b is far less likely to face contaminant exposure, the provision of a single seal on the second axial end 200b of the bearing assembly 200 is sufficient and advantageously reduces the overall width, weight, and cost of the bearing assembly in comparison to a bearing assembly where two seals are provided on each side. The seal arrangement 220 also provides a boundary or barrier for the lubricant introduced into lubrication volume 154 such that any injected lubrication remains in front of the bearing assembly 200 and is not injected through the bearing assembly 200.

[0095] In some examples, one or more of the seal arrangements 210, 220, 230 can be configured as a bearing seals or shields. With bearing seals, the inner and outer diameters of the seals are in contact with the inner and outer races 202, 204, respectively. In such an arrangement, the seal can be configured to be fixed relative to either the inner or outer race 202, 204 while relative motion relative motion occurs relative to the other of the inner and outer race 202, 204. In one example, the seal 210 is fixed to the inner race 202 with rotational movement occurring between the outer race 204 and the seal while the seal 210 is oppositely configured with the seal 210 being fixed to the outer race 204 with rotational movement occurring between the inner race 202 and the seal 210. Such an arrangement results in a tortured or labyrinth type of path that contaminants would have to follow in order to reach the bearings 206. In some examples, rotational movement between the seal and both inner and outer races 202, 204 occurs. In some examples, some or all of the seal arrangements 210, 220, 230 are configured as bearing shields in which the shield only contacts one of the inner and outer races 202, 204 with a gap existing between the shield and the other of the inner and outer races 202, 204. In some examples, a combination of bearing seals and shields are used. For example, seal arrangements 220 and / or 230 could be configured as a bearing shield while seal arrangement 220 could be configured as a bearing seal.Alternative Arrangements

[0096] Referring to Figures 18 to 22, an alternatively arranged roller assembly 550 is presented. Roller assembly 550 has a number of overlapping similar features with roller assembly 50. Accordingly, like numbered reference numbers (5xx series in this example) are used where such similarities exist and the above-provided description for those aspects relating to roller assembly50 are applicable for roller assembly 550 and need not be repeated here. Rather, this section will focus on the primary differences between roller assembly 50 and roller assembly 550. In contrast to roller assembly 50, roller assembly 550 is provided without seal arrangement 100 and is instead provided with bearing assembly 200 and a modified end part 590, mounted to the shaft 580, that directly abuts the bearing assembly 200. As shown, the end part 590 is formed with an axially extending shoulder or projection 590a that engages with the inner race 202 of the bearing assembly 200. Also, roller body 560 is provided as a single structure defining the internal surfaces associated with the hollow tube rather than being provided with a separate hollow tube. Accordingly, the outer race 204 of the bearing assembly 200 is received by the roller body 560. Such an arrangement is advantageous in applications where contaminant ingress concerns are not as high as might be anticipated for applications associated with roller assembly 50. In such circumstances, the double sealing provided by seals 210, 220 of the bearing assembly 200 on the end adjacent end part 590 is sufficient for protection of the internal components of the bearing assembly 200. However, where additional protection is desired, the sealing configuration shown at Figure 17Afor bearing 200 may be also utilized in this example.

[0097] Referring to Figures 21 to 22, it can also be seen that roller assembly 550 is provided with a roller body 560 that defines a pilot bore 570i that provides a lead-in to the section 570h that receives the outer race 204 of the bearing assembly 200. The pilot bore 570i is provided with a slightly larger diameter than that of the section 570h such that the bearing assembly 200 can be more easily received and aligned with the pilot bore 570i. In some examples, the pilot bore 570i has a diameter that is about .005 inch greater than that of section 570h. In some examples, the combined length of the pilot bore 570i and the adjacent chamfered portion is about ten percent of the diameter of the pilot bore 570i. Once so received, the pilot bore 570i sufficiently aligns the bearing assembly 200 with respect to the section 570h such that the bearing assembly 200 can be more easily pressed into the section 570h and to abut shoulder or end wall 570j, thereby providing for a smoother assembly process. Such a pilot bore can also be provided in association with the hollow tube relating to roller assembly 50.

[0098] Figures 23 and 24 show an example of a shaft 680 having a similar lead-in pilot arrangement 680n that has a reduced diameter in comparison to a section 680g onto which the inner race 202 of the bearing assembly 200 is received. As with the example shown at Figure 21 and 22, the pilot arrangement 680n can provide for initial alignment of the bearing assembly 200onto the shaft 680 and provide an easier point from which the bearing assembly 200 can be pressed onto the shaft. Such a pilot arrangement can also be provided in associated with roller assemblies 50, 550. In some examples, the pilot arrangement 680n has a diameter that is about .005 inch less than that of section 680g. In some examples, the combined length of the pilot arrangement 680n and the adjacent chamfered portion is about ten percent of the diameter of the pilot arrangement 680n.

[0099] Referring to Figure 25 a variation of roller assembly 550 is presented. As shown at Figure 25, the roller assembly 550 is additionally provided with an annular shield member 594 disposed between the end part 590 and the bearing assembly 200. As shown, the annular shield member 594 is clamped between the shoulder or projection 590a and the inner race 202 of the bearing assembly 200. The annular shield member 594 acts similarly to the seal arrangement and can provide for some level of protection of the bearing assembly 200 against ingress of contaminants by partially blocking and / or deflecting contaminants entering the open end 70d.

[0100] Having described the preferred aspects and implementations of the present disclosure, modifications and equivalents of the disclosed concepts may readily occur to one skilled in the art. However, it is intended that such modifications and equivalents be included within the scope of the claims which are appended hereto.

Claims

CLAIMSWe claim:

1. A rotating assembly for a turf treatment vehicle, the rotating assembly comprising: a) a rotating component extending between a first end and a second end along a longitudinal axis, the rotating component having an exterior side supported by an inner wall defining an interior region; b) a shaft extending through the interior region and defining an outer surface; c) a bearing assembly supporting the rotating component for rotation about the shaft; and d) a seal arrangement located within the interior region at a location axially outward from the bearing assembly, the seal arrangement including: i) an outer perimeter in contact with the rotating component inner wall; ii) a first extension member presenting a first seal surface configured to provide a seal in a radially inward direction; iii) a second extension member extending at an oblique angle to the longitudinal axis and presenting a second seal surface configured to provide a seal in an axial direction and biased longitudinally outward.

2. The rotating assembly of claim 1, wherein the second extension member extends away from the longitudinal axis as the first extension member extends from a base portion towards the second seal surface.

3. The rotating assembly of claim 1, wherein the first extension member extends at an oblique angle to the longitudinal axis.

4. The rotating assembly of claim 3, wherein the first extension member extends towards the longitudinal axis as the first extension member extends in a direction from a base portion towards the first seal surface.

5. The rotating assembly of claim 1, further including an elastic member providing a radially inward compressive force against the first extension member.

6. The rotating assembly of claim 5, wherein the elastic member is a garter spring.

7. The rotating assembly of claim 1, wherein the rotating component exterior side rotates about a horizontal axis.

8. The rotating assembly of claim 1, wherein the rotating component exterior side rotates about a vertical axis.

9. The rotating assembly of claim 7 or 8, wherein the rotating component exterior side is a cutting blade.

10. The rotating assembly of claim 7, wherein the rotating component exterior side is a turf roller.

11. A rotating assembly for a turf treatment vehicle, the rotating assembly comprising: a) a rotating component extending between a first end and a second end along a longitudinal axis, the rotating component having an exterior side supported by an inner wall defining an interior region; b) a shaft extending through the interior region and defining an outer surface; c) a bearing assembly supporting the rotating component for rotation about the shaft; and d) a seal arrangement located within the interior region at a location axially outward from the bearing assembly, the seal arrangement including: i) an outer perimeter in contact with the rotating component inner wall; ii) a first seal surface configured to provide a seal in a radial direction; iii) an elastic member providing a compressive force to the first seal surface in a radially inward direction; andiv) a second seal surface configured to provide a seal in an axial direction and biased longitudinally outward.

12. The rotating assembly of claim 11, wherein the bearing assembly is a sealed bearing having a double bearing seal on a first side of the bearing assembly facing the seal arrangement.

13. The rotating assembly of claim 12, wherein the bearing assembly has a single bearing seal on a second side opposite the first side and facing away from the seal arrangement.

14. The rotating assembly of claim 11, wherein the elastic member comprises a garter spring.

15. The rotating assembly of claim 11, further comprising an end part including an annular base structure defining a central aperture through which the shaft extends, and including a radial wall structure extending radially from the base structure in a direction towards the rotating component inner wall, wherein: a) the first seal surface is in sealing contact with the end part base structure; b) the elastic member provides the compressive force to the first seal surface against the end part base structure; and c) the second seal surface is in sealing contact with an inner surface of the end part radial wall structure.

16. The rotating assembly of claim 11, wherein the seal arrangement includes a first extension member defining the first sealing surface and a second extension member defining the second sealing surface.

17. The rotating assembly of claim 16, wherein one or both of the first and second extension members extends at an oblique angle to the longitudinal axis.

18. The rotating assembly of claim 16 or 17, wherein the second extension member extends at an oblique angle to the longitudinal axis in an axial direction away from the bearing assembly and in a radial direction away from the shaft.

19. The rotating assembly of claim 11, wherein the rotating component exterior side is one of a wheel, a roller, and a drum configured for rolling contact with the turf.

20. The rotating assembly of claim 11, wherein the rotating component exterior side is a cutting real rotating about a horizontal axis and configured for mowing the turf.

21. The rotating assembly of claim 15, wherein the inner surface of the end part radial wall structure is an axial facing surface.

22. The rotating assembly of claim 11, wherein the seal arrangement is rotationally fixed with respect to the rotating component inner wall.

23. The rotating assembly of claim 15, wherein the end part is rotationally fixed to the shaft.

24. The rotating assembly of claim 23, wherein the end part and shaft are provided with cooperating threads.

25. The rotating assembly of claim 11, wherein the bearing assembly includes an outer race, in non-rotating contact with the rotating component inner wall, and includes an inner race, in non-rotating contact with the shaft outer surface.

26. The rotating assembly of claim 11, further including a lubrication passageway extending from an axial end of the shaft to the shaft outer surface at a location between the first seal surface and the bearing assembly.

27. The rotating assembly of claim 11, wherein the shaft inner wall has a first section within which the bearing assembly is mounted and a second section, adjacent the first section,for receiving the bearing assembly during installation, wherein the second section has a diameter that is greater than a diameter associated with the first section.

28. The rotating assembly of claim 11, wherein the bearing assembly and the seal arrangement include a first bearing assembly and a first seal arrangement located proximate the rotating component first end and include a second bearing assembly and a second seal arrangement located proximate the rotating component second end.

29. A roller assembly for a turf treatment vehicle, the roller assembly comprising: a) a roller extending between a first end and a second end along a longitudinal axis, the roller having an exterior surface configured for rolling ground contact and having an inner wall defining an interior region; b) a shaft extending through the interior region and defining an outer surface; c) a bearing assembly supporting the roller for rotation about the shaft, wherein the bearing assembly is a sealed bearing having a double bearing seal or shield on a first side of the bearing assembly facing axially outward and a single bearing seal or shield on a second side of the bearing assembly opposite the first side, wherein the second side faces axially inward; d) an end part including an annular base structure, defining a central aperture through which the shaft extends, and including a radial wall structure, extending radially from the base structure in a direction towards the roller inner wall; and e) a seal arrangement located within the roller interior region at a location between the bearing assembly and the end part radial wall structure, the seal arrangement extending radially outward from the shaft.

30. The roller assembly of claim 29, wherein the seal arrangement comprises: a) an outer perimeter in contact with the roller inner wall; b) a first seal surface in sealing contact with the end part base structure and being forced against the end part base structure by a garter spring; and c) a second seal surface in sealing contact with an inner surface of the end part radial wall structure.

31. The roller assembly of claim 30, wherein the seal arrangement includes a first extension member defining the first seal surface and a second extension member defining the second seal surface.

32. The roller assembly of claim 31, wherein one or both of the first and second extension members extends at an oblique angle to the longitudinal axis.

33. The rotating assembly of claim 31 or 32, wherein the second extension member extends at an oblique angle to the longitudinal axis in an axial direction away from the bearing assembly and in a radial direction away from the shaft.

34. A seal arrangement for providing a seal between a shaft assembly and a rotating component disposed about the shaft assembly, the seal arrangement comprising: a) an outer casing arrangement extending along a longitudinal axis and defining a radially outward facing perimeter surface; b) a first extension member supported by the outer casing arrangement, the first extension member defining a first seal surface facing in a radially inward direction; c) a garter spring disposed about the first extension member and arranged to provide a compressive force to the first seal surface; and d) a second extension member supported by the outer casing arrangement, the second extension member extending at an oblique angle to the longitudinal axis in an axial direction away from the first seal surface and in a radial direction away from the longitudinal axis, the second extension member defining a second seal surface facing in an axial direction at a location radially outward of the first seal surface.

35. The seal arrangement of claim 34, wherein the first extension member extends in at least an axial direction.

36. The seal arrangement of claim 35, wherein the first extension member and the second extension member extend axially in the same direction.

37. The seal arrangement of claim 34, wherein the first extension member extends at an oblique angle to the longitudinal axis in an axial direction towards the first seal surface and in a radial direction towards the longitudinal axis.

38. The seal arrangement of claim 34, wherein the first extension member is associated with a first seal part and the second extension member is associated with a second seal part that is separately formed from the first seal part.

39. The seal arrangement of claim 34, wherein the first and second extension members are part of an integrally formed seal member.

40. The seal arrangement of claim 34, wherein the outer casing arrangement includes a first casing part supporting the first extension member and a second casing part supporting the second extension member.

41. The seal arrangement of claim 34, further including a closed cavity located between the outer casing arrangement and the first and second extension members.

42. The seal arrangement of claim 34, wherein the outer casing arrangement defines an interior cavity within which a seal arrangement associated with the first and second extension members is at least partially disposed, wherein the seal arrangement forms a partition that provides a barrier to lubricant entering a first portion of the interior cavity.

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