Rolling bearing and relative method and inspection system

The rolling bearing with a sensor-accessible cage and inspection system objectively assesses damage, addressing the subjectivity of manual inspections and enabling early detection of spalling, enhancing safety and efficiency.

WO2026115434A1PCT designated stage Publication Date: 2026-06-04LEONARDO SPA
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
LEONARDO SPA
Filing Date
2025-11-25
Publication Date
2026-06-04

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

The existing manual maintenance procedures for rolling bearings in helicopters are subjective and indirect, making it difficult to accurately assess damage such as spalling, which can lead to catastrophic consequences, and require expert operators.

Method used

A rolling bearing with a cage featuring a cavity for a sensor to directly inspect raceway surfaces, combined with an inspection system using a sensor and electronic control unit to objectively assess surface roughness and detect damage, utilizing machine learning for classification.

Benefits of technology

The solution provides a reliable, objective, and prompt detection of bearing damage, reducing subjectivity and enabling early identification of issues without requiring removal from the seat, thus enhancing safety and maintenance efficiency.

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Abstract

A rolling bearing (2200) for a helicopter (1) is described, comprising a first ring (21) extending around an axis (A) and a second ring (22) extending around the axis (A) and radially external to the first ring (20). The rolling bearing (20) further comprises a plurality of rolling bodies (23, 24) cooperating with said first and second rings (21, 22), so as to roll on respective raceways (25, 26, 27, 28) of said first and second rings (21, 22) and to allow the relative rotation between the first and the second ring (21, 22) around the axis (A); and a cage (29) configured to maintain the rolling bodies (23, 24) angularly distanced from each other around the axis (A). The cage (29) comprises a cavity (30) configured to be selectively engaged by a sensor (50); and facing the first ring (21) and / or the second ring (22).
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