Linear bearing having a diagnostic device for bearings, and method for diagnosing bearings

Abstract

The invention relates to a linear bearing (1) having a diagnostic device (7) for bearings, and to a method for diagnosing bearings. The linear bearing (1) comprises a housing (2) having a chamber (5) with rolling bodies (6) and comprises a cover (4) for closing the chamber (5). The diagnostic device (7) for bearings further comprises a circuit comprising at least one measurement loop (9). The circuit also comprises a power supply (8) for supplying energy to the measurement loop (9), and the measurement loop (9) comprises at least one break sensor (10) of the measurement loop (9). The diagnostic device (7) for bearings further comprises an output device (11) for signalling an interruption of the measurement loop (9). The output device (11) is connected to the break sensor (10) of the measurement loop (9), wherein at least one measurement loop (9) extends through the housing (2) and simultaneously through the cover (4).

Description

[0001] Linear bearings with diagnostic device for bearings and methods for diagnosing bearings

[0002] Technical subject area

[0003] The present invention relates to the field of sensors for detecting damage to linear bearings, in particular for detecting the opening of a chamber for storing rolling elements.

[0004] State of the art

[0005] According to current technology, the use of sensors to detect various loads in linear and rotary bearings is well established. The detection devices are located either directly on the bearing or in its immediate vicinity.

[0006] Document DE102015206613 A1 describes a method for determining bearing deformation based on optical analysis. A pattern is applied to the moving part of the bearing—the housing. This pattern can consist of an image, a shape, geometric figures, etc. The pattern can be glued, painted, engraved, welded, or similar. Using optical analysis, the shape and deformation of the pattern are compared before and after the bearing is used, or during operation. The pattern is captured by one or more cameras, and the image is evaluated on a computer. This approach is suitable for workplaces with good lighting conditions. However, it is necessary to install a camera with sufficiently good imaging properties and to ensure that it is positioned appropriately relative to the moving bearing.Furthermore, the necessary clarity of the lens must be ensured to avoid distortion of the captured image, and suitable image evaluation software must be available.

[0007] The possibilities of this solution are limited when the bearing is used in hard-to-reach locations or under poor lighting conditions. Since image processing software is required, it places relatively high demands on the available equipment. It would therefore be advisable to find a solution that addresses these shortcomings.

[0008] Nature of the invention

[0009] The shortcomings of solutions known from the prior art are partially eliminated to a certain extent by a linear bearing with a bearing diagnostic device. The linear bearing comprises a housing with a chamber containing rolling elements and a cover for closing the chamber. The bearing diagnostic device comprises an electrical circuit including at least one measuring loop. The electrical circuit further includes a power supply for the measuring loop, and the measuring loop includes at least one loop break sensor. The bearing diagnostic device also includes an output device for indicating a break in the measuring loop, the output device being coupled to the loop break sensor. At least one measuring loop passes through the housing and simultaneously through the cover.

[0010] The housing of the linear bearing can have any shape suitable for the intended bearing application – rectangular, with cutouts, elongated, irregular, cylindrical, etc. The housing can be made of materials such as steel, ceramic, bronze, cast iron, etc. The linear bearing housing can be movably mounted on the slide rail, along which it moves longitudinally. The entire housing can be located, for example, on one side of the slide rail – e.g., a linear bearing, or it

[0011] The housing can enclose the slide rail – for example, a radial bearing. The housing can have a shape complementary to this slide rail, for example, with cutouts, projections, etc. Inside the housing is a chamber for storing the rolling elements. The rolling elements can be in the form of balls, rollers, barrel rollers, etc. The rolling elements are stored in a chamber at the interface between the housing and the slide rail. The rolling elements ensure smooth movement of the housing on the slide rail – as the bearing moves, they roll on the slide rail and prevent friction between the housing and the slide rail. Preferably, two sets of rolling elements can be stored in the chamber. The two sets of rolling elements can be stored, for example, in rows one above the other, side by side, in projections or recesses of the housing, etc.The use of a higher number of rolling elements ensures more efficient movement of the housing on the slide rail.

[0012] The housing can have a recess on one side, dividing it into two interconnected parts – the legs. The chambers within the legs can be positioned opposite each other – for example, if the housing is cylindrical, cuboid, or similar. Each leg can contain one or more chambers. A guide rail can run through the recess, and the chambers can then be located, for example, on both sides of the guide rail. Due to the relative position of the two chambers, the rolling elements are opposite each other, and when the housing is placed on the guide rail, the rolling elements are on both sides of the guide rail, ensuring more efficient movement and reduced friction. The chambers can also be inserted into the housing, for example, stacked one on top of the other. The shape of the chamber can be arbitrary, depending on the shape of the rolling elements.The chamber may also contain a lubricant to ensure better mobility of the rolling elements. This lubricant could be, for example, silicone grease, Teflon oil, petroleum jelly, or similar substances. The chamber for storing the rolling elements is closed with a lid that covers the opening for inserting the rolling elements. The lid is attached to the outside of the housing and can cover the entire side of the housing. The lid can be made of the same material as the housing or, for example, of plastic, aluminum, etc. The lid can be secured by screws, clips, seals, or similar means.

[0013] A diagnostic device for bearings consists of at least one electrical circuit and an output device. The electrical circuit includes a power supply and a measuring loop. The measuring loop is connected to a breakage sensor. The power supply preferably also powers the breakage sensor and the output device.

[0014] Between the output device and the breakage sensor, there may be another component, e.g. a control unit, which evaluates the data from the breakage sensor and controls the output device accordingly.

[0015] The power supply can be a standard mains connection (e.g., via a converter for rectification and voltage conversion to the desired value) or a battery. The power supply can include a converter to regulate the incoming power, for example, by adjusting the voltage level. The voltage used can be in the low-voltage range – up to and including 50 V. The use of low voltages makes the bearing diagnostic tool suitable for use in production facilities as well as in workshops, homes, and similar environments. The power supply can also be a battery, for example – in this case, the bearing diagnostic tool is even more portable and can be used, for instance, on construction sites.

[0016] The bearing according to the invention is particularly suitable for production halls, e.g., for bearings of overhead cranes, trolleys, or conveyor systems. Power can then be supplied via a power line running along the device, which powers the device itself.

[0017] The measuring loop is part of the circuit and can advantageously contain an insulated conductor – the conductive element is enclosed by an insulator. The conductive element can be, for example, a wire, a tape, a wire rope, etc. The insulator can be made of any non-conductive material, such as plastic, rubber, fiberglass, etc. The measuring loop can be made of commercially available conductor material, such as copper, silver, aluminum, an alloy, etc. The measuring loop is guided through the housing and the cover. For example, a recess or cutout can be provided on the surface of the housing and the cover to accommodate the PC17CZ2025 / 000027.

[0018] 5

[0019] A measuring loop can be formed, or an opening can be made in the housing and the cover to accommodate the measuring loop, etc. The measuring loop can, for example, be routed along the surface of the housing around the entire housing, in which case it encloses the entire housing and all covers simultaneously. The bearing diagnostic device thus consists of a single circuit. The measuring loop can, for example, be routed along parts of the housing, such as if the housing has a segmented shape that is not suitable for enclosing a single conductor loop. The measuring loop is then routed along the surface of the individual parts of the housing, for example, in two cutouts, and encloses the specified housing and cover section. With this configuration featuring two measuring loops on the housing, the bearing diagnostic device can consist of one or two circuits.In the case of a large segmented bearing housing, the bearing diagnostic device may include two or more circuits.

[0020] The preferred use of multiple measuring loops ensures a more sensitive diagnosis and the possibility, e.g. in large-format bearings, to determine the specific location of the housing damage.

[0021] The break sensor of the measuring loop preferably detects the value of the electrical quantity. The sensor preferably comprises an electrically operated switching element, wherein the output contact / terminal of the switching element is connected to the output device. This switching element is therefore preferably connected in a loop such that the interruption of the loop opens / closes this switching element and thus switches on the output device or forwards the signal to the output device, etc.

[0022] The switching element can have three contacts: input, output, and control. Changing the voltage at the control contact determines whether the switch connects the input and output contacts (either fully or partially). The control contact can then be connected to a sensing loop, so that interrupting the loop changes the switching element's state. The input contact can then be energized, and this change in state will also transmit the voltage to the output contact. The output contact then sends the voltage to the output device, signaling a fault, such as illuminating a warning LED, sounding a buzzer, or displaying a more complex digital warning message.

[0023] The switching element can be, for example, a relay or a semiconductor element - transistor, thyristor, etc.

[0024] The sensor is suitable for detecting an electrical quantity in the measuring loop, recording its value, or forwarding it for further evaluation. The loop's breakage sensor can have a digital or analog input. The sensor itself can be, for example, an input card—a measuring device that can have voltage or current inputs, include its own internal processor, internal DC / AC converters, and output ports. The input card receives the signal and can forward the signal information. The input card can, for example, measure voltage and current. The input card can be connected to the same power supply as the bearing diagnostic device.

[0025] The loop break sensor primarily detects electrical quantities. These quantities can include voltage, current, resistance, and similar parameters. The sensor can, for example, send the electrical quantity to the output device or convert it into a logical value of zero or one and then send it to the output device. The loop break sensor is connected to the output device. The output device is designed, for example, to evaluate the received signal from the sensor or to perform an action based on the received logical value – such as triggering an audible signal, a visual signal, a software error message, and so on. The output device can be, for example, an audible signaling device, a visual signaling device, a signal to indicate an error message, or a combination thereof.The output device forms the communication interface between the user and the bearing diagnostic device. Based on the evaluated information, the output device can trigger an alarm. An alarm can be triggered by an audible signaling device – e.g., buzzer, siren, etc. – or by a visual signaling device – e.g., warning light, LED, etc. – or by the display of an error message. The breakage sensor of the measuring loop can preferably be a voltmeter or an ammeter. The voltmeter is attached to the measuring loop behind the bearing housing and detects the voltage across the loop. It transmits this value to the output device. The ammeter detects the current flowing through the measuring loop and transmits this information to the output device.

[0026] The measuring loop preferably includes a second loop break sensor. The first loop break sensor is connected between the power supply and the housing (i.e., between the power supply and at least a portion of the measuring loop running along the housing). The second loop break sensor is connected between the housing and the output device (i.e., between at least a portion of the measuring loop running along the housing and the output device). The first loop break sensor is connected closer to the power supply in the circuit. This sensor is connected before the housing; that is, it is connected to the measuring loop at a point where the loop is not yet attached to the housing. The first sensor detects the value of the electrical quantity at the measuring loop before the housing—the input value.The second sensor is connected further away from the power supply in the circuit, at a point where the measuring loop already exits the housing. This second sensor detects the value of the electrical quantity at the measuring loop behind the housing – the output value. The first and second sensors can preferably be connected to the output device and transmit information about the detected values ​​to it. The output device can evaluate the transmitted values ​​and, based on this evaluation, signal an interruption of the measuring loop. In this case, the output device, e.g., the control unit, compares the input and output values ​​of the electrical quantity. If the output value deviates from the input value, the output device signals an interruption of the measuring loop.

[0027] Other electronic components can be used in the circuit and connected in a manner known to a person skilled in the art.

[0028] The housing of the linear bearing according to the invention preferably includes at least two covers for closing the chamber. At least one measuring loop preferably passes through the housing and simultaneously through at least two covers. A housing of the linear bearing can advantageously comprise several chambers for storing rolling elements. The chambers can be arranged one above the other, one behind the other, opposite each other in the two legs of the housing, etc. Two covers can close two chambers, for example, if the chambers are arranged opposite each other in two legs of the housing and each chamber contains two openings for inserting rolling elements. Two covers can close two chambers if the chambers are arranged one above the other and each chamber contains two openings for inserting rolling elements. Two covers can close one chamber if the chamber has two openings for inserting rolling elements.Two opposing chambers or chambers stacked one above the other can have openings on the same side of the housing for inserting rolling elements. The cover can therefore close off two chambers simultaneously. At the point where the cover closes off the chamber(s), the cover can form a wall of the housing or part of a wall of the housing.

[0029] The housing can include more than two lids. For example, two opposing or stacked chambers can each be closed with two lids, or the chambers can each be closed with a separate lid at one end and a common lid at the other end.

[0030] The bearing diagnostic device comprises a circuit with a measuring loop, the measuring loop preferably passing through the housing and simultaneously through at least two covers. The measuring loop can be guided along the surface of the housing, e.g., in a recess in the housing. The covers can advantageously also include recesses or notches for the measuring loop. If the chambers in the housing are arranged opposite each other, the measuring loop can extend around the entire housing—in the direction of the housing's movement on the slide rail—and also through all the covers of the two chambers. If the chambers are arranged one above the other, the measuring loop extends around the housing at the point where the chambers are arranged, e.g., around one leg, and simultaneously around any covers that close the chambers.

[0031] The housing can contain two chambers located opposite each other in two legs of the housing. A measuring loop can be guided through this type of housing. Preferably, the measuring loop is first guided around one leg of the housing, then through one side of the housing to the other leg, and subsequently around the other leg of the housing and from the housing to the sensor. All covers have notches in the corresponding direction for guiding the measuring loop. Thus, the measuring loop is preferably guided through the housing and all covers simultaneously.

[0032] The bearing diagnostic device can advantageously include two measuring loops, for example, if the housing is divided into two interconnected parts – legs – and each contains a chamber. In this case, one measuring loop can be routed around one section containing a chamber, and the other around the other section containing a chamber. The measuring loop can preferably be wound around the corresponding part of the housing and simultaneously around the cover of the designated chamber. Two measuring loops are then preferably routed along the surface of the housing to ensure reliable detection of bearing damage on all covers. The measuring loop can also be routed, for example, in an opening in the housing outside the chamber containing the rolling elements. Locating the measuring loop in the opening ensures a longer service life for the measuring loop, as it is protected from external influences due to its proximity to the bearing.

[0033] The measuring loop preferably encloses a portion of the housing and a portion of the cover. The measuring loop can be guided closely over the surface of the housing and the cover, for example, by being supported and tightened in a recess in the cover housing. By tightly enclosing the measuring loop around the housing or housing parts, interruption of the measuring loop is preferably ensured even if the cover is only slightly loosened. Thanks to this design, the bearing diagnostic device is sensitive to initial changes in the bearing, as the sensor of the measuring loop immediately detects even a slight change in the loop. This makes fault detection faster and more efficient. The bearing diagnostic device preferably contains at least two circuits. Each circuit comprises at least one measuring loop with a loop breakage sensor. The power supply and output device can be shared by both circuits.

[0034] The bearing diagnostic device can include two circuits with a common power supply and output device. In this case, each circuit contains a measuring loop, and each measuring loop contains a loop breakage sensor. Two measuring loops are routed from the power supply. Preferably, one measuring loop is routed around one leg of the housing and the other measuring loop around the other leg of the housing. A loop breakage sensor is connected to each measuring loop after it exits the housing. Overall, the bearing diagnostic device includes a power supply, two measuring loops, two loop breakage sensors, and an output device.

[0035] Furthermore, the shortcomings of the prior art solution are partially eliminated by a bearing diagnostic procedure that includes a phase of installing an electrical circuit on the linear bearing to create a linear bearing with a diagnostic device, and a phase of recording the linear bearing during operation. The electrical circuit installation phase includes:

[0036] Attaching the measuring loop over the housing and the cover of the bearing; connecting at least one breakage sensor of the measuring loop;

[0037] Connecting the output device to the break sensor of the measuring loop; connecting the measuring loop to the power supply.

[0038] The phase of recording a linear bearing in operation includes:

[0039] - Detection of the interruption of the measuring loop by a break sensor of the measuring loop; wherein - when the cover is moved away from the housing, the measuring loop is interrupted and the interruption of the measuring loop is detected by the break sensor of the measuring loop; and

[0040] ~ Subsequently, the output device signals an interruption of the measurement loop.

[0041] The bearing diagnostic device includes a measuring loop that passes through the housing. The housing contains chambers with rolling elements; these chambers can be positioned opposite each other, one above the other, or there may be an additional chamber within the housing. The chambers have openings for inserting rolling elements, and these openings are closed with covers. The measuring loop is wrapped tightly around the housing and preferably runs along the housing surface and through all the covers. The measuring loop is connected to a loop breakage sensor. The sensor can be a semiconductor switching element, a measuring instrument, or a relay. The sensor is designed to detect the electrical quantity within the measuring loop.The sensor can send information about the value of the electrical quantity to the output device, or the sensor itself can evaluate the electrical quantity and, based on this evaluation, send a signal to the output device to perform an action. The measuring loop is then connected to the power supply. The power supply can be, for example, a battery, a mains connection, etc.

[0042] During the detection phase of a linear bearing, the loop break sensor detects the value of an electrical quantity on the loop – for example, the current flowing through the loop or the voltage between the loop and ground. The loop can advantageously be routed close to the surface of the housing and cover. If the cover is removed from the housing – for example, by loosening the cover screws, breaking the cover, etc. – the loop is interrupted. Due to the interruption of the loop, the value of the monitored electrical quantity deviates from the set expected value. The sensor evaluates the new value and can send the signal to the output device, or it can convert the measured value into the logical information zero or one and then send this signal to the output device. The output device signals an interruption of the loop – for example, by...through an acoustic signal, a light signal, an error message, or a combination thereof.

[0043] The way the measuring loop is guided directly on the surface of the bearing housing enables faster and more efficient detection of bearing damage. Thanks to the measuring loop being guided through the covers, even the first signs of a malfunction can be detected.

[0044] The measuring loop preferably includes a second loop break sensor. One loop break sensor detects the value of the electrical input quantity, and the other loop break sensor detects the value of the electrical output quantity. Thus, one sensor is preferably connected in front of the housing and detects the input value, while the other sensor is connected behind the housing and detects the output value. The signal containing the value information is sent from the sensor to the output device. The output device detects and evaluates the values ​​of the electrical quantities, and based on the evaluated values, it signals the interruption of the measuring loop. Electrical quantities can be, for example, voltage or current.

[0045] The sensor that detects the electrical input is preferably connected directly after the power supply and serves to detect the value of the electrical quantity entering the measuring loop. In addition to verifying the input value of the electrical quantity, this circuit also acts as a power supply fault detector. The sensor that detects the electrical output can detect the value of the electrical quantity coming from the measuring loop. The value of the electrical output depends on the integrity of the measuring loop; if the measuring loop is intact, the output value of the electrical quantity is equal to the input value. If the measuring loop is interrupted due to bearing damage, the output value of the electrical quantity will deviate from the input value. The information about the detected values ​​can be sent by the sensors to the output device in the form of a signal.The values ​​can be evaluated in the output device, and based on this evaluation, the output device avoids bearing damage.

[0046] Explanation of drawings

[0047] The nature of the invention is further clarified by examples of its implementation, which are described with reference to the accompanying drawings:

[0048] Fig. 1 is a schematic representation of a housing of a linear bearing mounted on a slide rail.

[0049] Fig. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional representation of a linear bearing housing.

[0050] Fig. 3 is a schematic representation of the position of two measuring loops on the housing.

[0051] Fig. 4 is a schematic representation of the position of two measuring loops in the housing in cross-section.

[0052] Fig. 5 is a schematic representation of the circuit mounting with two measuring loops on the housing.

[0053] Fig. 6 is a schematic representation of the circuit comprising two measuring loops and a common power supply.

[0054] Fig. 7 is a schematic representation of the position of a measuring loop on the housing. Fig. 8 is a schematic cross-sectional representation of the position of a measuring loop inside the housing.

[0055] Fig. 9 is a schematic representation of the circuit's mounting with a measuring loop on the housing. Fig. 10 is a schematic representation of the circuit comprising a measuring loop.

[0056] Exemplary embodiments of the invention

[0057] The invention is explained in more detail with reference to exemplary embodiments and the corresponding drawings.

[0058] A first exemplary embodiment of the invention – a linear bearing with a bearing diagnostic device – is shown in Figures 1-6. The linear bearing 1 comprises a housing 2, which is movably mounted on a slide rail 3. The housing 2 is made of steel and has the shape of a cuboid. It has a cradle-shaped cutout in one wall, which divides the housing 2 into two parts – the legs. The housing 2 is not divided into two separate parts by a cutout, but rather the two legs are connected to each other. The cutout has projections and recesses, and the slide rail 3 has complementary projections and recesses – thus ensuring mutual complementarity. The slide rail 3 is made of steel.

[0059] In the first exemplary embodiment, each leg contains a chamber 5 with two sets of rolling elements 6. In this first exemplary embodiment, the rolling elements 6 are rollers and are made of steel. The rollers of one set and the other set are arranged in a row, one behind the other, and the sets are stacked on top of each other. The two sets of rollers are mounted at the interface between the chamber 5 and the slide rail 3. The housing 2 is approximately U-shaped, so that the chambers 5 are located on opposite sides of the slide rail 2. The rollers are therefore also arranged on both sides of the slide rail 3, with two rows of rollers on one side of the slide rail 3. In this first exemplary embodiment, the housing 2 thus comprises a total of four rows of rollers. This design ensures efficient movement of the housing 2 along the slide rail 3. A detail of the rollers is shown in Fig.2 shown.

[0060] The rollers are mounted in chamber 5 within a cage (not shown). The smooth rotation of the rollers is ensured by the lubricant. In a first exemplary embodiment, the lubricant is a silicone oil.

[0061] In the first exemplary embodiment, the chambers 5 have an elongated shape, the length of which corresponds to the length of the housing 2. The chambers 5 have openings at both ends for inserting the rolling elements 6. The openings are closed with a cover 4. In the first exemplary embodiment, the two chambers 5 have two common covers 4 – at each end of the housing 2, the cover closes both chambers 5 simultaneously, so that there are a total of two covers 4 on the housing 2. Each cover 4 forms one side of the housing 2, with the covers 4 being located on opposite sides. The covers 4 are fastened to the housing 2 with screws. In the first exemplary embodiment, the covers 4 are made of plastic.

[0062] The diagnostic device 7 for bearings in the first exemplary embodiment comprises a single circuit with two measuring loops 9. The two measuring loops 9 are made of insulated copper wire. The measuring loops 9 are guided along the legs of the housing 2 – there is only one measuring loop 9 on each leg. The measuring loop 9 wraps tightly around the leg and is simultaneously guided closely over the cover 4. The measuring loop 9 is supported in a recess (not shown) on both the housing 2 and the cover 4. The support of the two measuring loops 9 on the housing 2 is shown schematically in Fig. 3 and Fig. 4.

[0063] The circuit further includes a power supply 8, which in the first exemplary embodiment is a mains connection. In this embodiment, a transformer (not shown) is located outside the circuit to adjust the input voltage. The input voltage at the power supply 8 for the measuring loop 9 is 24 V. In the first exemplary embodiment, the power supply 8 is shared between the bearing diagnostic device 7 and the drive of the machine that uses the linear bearing 1 with the bearing diagnostic device 7.

[0064] A break sensor 10 of the measuring loop 9 is connected to the measuring loop 9. In a first exemplary embodiment, the sensor 10 is an input card with a digital input. The end of the measuring loop 9 is connected to the signal input ports. The input card is connected to the output device 11 via the signal output ports. The input card has its own internal resistance and an internal processor unit. The input card is located in the circuit behind the housing and detects the voltage value at the measuring loop 9. It compares this value with a reference value and converts the output voltage value into a logical value of one or zero. The voltage reference is set to 24 V – i.e., the voltage of the power supply. If the measuring loop 9 is intact, the voltage value at the measuring loop 9 is equal to the voltage value of the power supply 8. The input card converts this signal into a logical value of one.If, due to an overload of the linear bearing 1, the screws are loosened, the cover 4 is opened, and subsequently the measuring loop 9 is interrupted, the voltage value at the measuring loop 9 will deviate from 24 V; typically, the voltage value will be 0 V. The input card converts this signal into a logical value of zero. This sends a signal to the output device 11 to trigger an alarm.

[0065] The diagnostic device 7 for bearings comprises an output device 11, which in a first exemplary embodiment is a control unit suitable for controlling the software of a machine (conveyor system) that uses a linear bearing 1 with the diagnostic device 7 for bearings. The output device 11 – the control unit of the conveyor system – and the breakage sensor 10 of the measuring loop 9 – the input card – are linked. If the input card sends a signal with a logical value of zero, the control unit sends a signal to display an error message. In a first exemplary embodiment, the output device 11 is linked to an acoustic signaling device or a visual signaling device (not shown). In addition to the error message being displayed in the software, the error is also indicated by an acoustic alarm and a signal light.A schematic representation of the linear bearing 1 with connected diagnostic device 7 for bearings according to the first exemplary embodiment is shown in Fig. 5. The entire circuit of the first exemplary embodiment is shown schematically in Fig. 6.

[0066] Second exemplary version

[0067] A second exemplary embodiment of the invention – a linear bearing 1 with a diagnostic device 7 for bearings – is shown in Figures 7-10. The construction of the housing 2 of the linear bearing 1 is identical to the construction of the housing 2 of the first exemplary embodiment.

[0068] The diagnostic device 7 for bearings in the second exemplary embodiment comprises a single circuit with a copper measuring loop 9. The measuring loop 9 is guided laterally around the entire housing 2. Thus, the measuring loop 9 successively encloses one leg, one side of the housing 2 formed by a cover 4, and the other leg and another side of the housing 2 formed by the other cover 4. The measuring loop 9 lies close to the surface of the housing 2 and both covers 4. The measuring loop 9 is housed in a recess in the housing 2 and the covers 4. The mounting of the measuring loop 9 in the second exemplary embodiment is shown in Figures 7 and 8.

[0069] The diagnostic device 7 for bearings in the second exemplary embodiment is constructed in the same way as in the first exemplary embodiment. A schematic representation of the bearing with the diagnostic device 7 for bearings according to the second exemplary embodiment is shown in Fig. 9. The complete circuit of the second exemplary embodiment is shown schematically in Fig. 10.

[0070] Third exemplary execution

[0071] A third exemplary embodiment of the invention—a linear bearing with a bearing diagnostic device 7—comprises a housing 2 with the same structure as in the first and second embodiments. The bearing diagnostic device 7 in the third exemplary embodiment is similarly constructed to that in the second exemplary embodiment. The power supply 8, the routing of the measuring loop 9 around the housing 2, and the connection of the output device 11 are identical to those in the second exemplary embodiment. Thus, in this third embodiment, the bearing diagnostic device 7 comprises a single measuring loop 9 that is routed laterally around the entire housing 2.

[0072] In the third exemplary embodiment, the measuring loop 9 comprises two fracture sensors 10. Each fracture sensor 10 of the measuring loop 9 – the input card – is connected to the output device 11 – the software for controlling the machine, which uses the linear bearing with the bearing diagnostic device 7. Two sensors 10 are connected to the measuring loop 9. One fracture sensor 10, which is connected closer to the power supply 8, is located in the circuit before the housing 2. This sensor 10 detects the voltage value at the measuring loop 9 before the housing 2. The second fracture sensor 10 of the measuring loop 9 is connected further away from the power supply 8, behind the housing 2. This second sensor 10 is located in the circuit behind the housing 2 and detects the voltage value at the end of the measuring loop 9. The output device 11 – the input card – is designed to compare these values.If the output voltage deviates from the input value – in this specific design, 24 V ~ – the output device 11 signals a fault in the linear bearing 1_. The signaling is carried out in the same way as in the first and second exemplary designs.

[0073] Alternative version

[0074] In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the housing 2 contains only one chamber 5 for storing the rolling elements 6. The rolling elements 6 in the chambers 5 are the barrel rollers. The sliding medium in this case is Teflon oil. In another exemplary embodiment, the chamber 5 contains balls and the lubricant is petroleum jelly. In this exemplary embodiment, only one set of rolling elements 6 is located in the chamber 5.

[0075] In an alternative embodiment, chamber 5 for storing the barrel rollers has only one opening for storing the rolling elements 6. Chamber 5 is closed by a cover 4. In another exemplary embodiment, the two chambers 5 are each closed by two separate covers 4. Thus, there are a total of four covers 4 on the housing 2. In an alternative embodiment, the covers 4 are made of aluminum.

[0076] In another exemplary embodiment, the housing 2 of the linear bearing 1 has an opening that penetrates the entire housing 2, outside the chamber 5 for the storage of the rolling elements 6. In this embodiment of the invention, the measuring loop 9 is guided through the opening.

[0077] In an alternative embodiment, the break sensor 10 of the measuring loop 9 is a voltmeter. In another embodiment, the break sensor 10 of the measuring loop 9 is an ammeter. In a further alternative embodiment, the break sensor 10 of the measuring loop 9 is an input card with its own power supply. The input card contains an internal processor unit, has its own power supply, and includes input and output ports to which the beginning and end of the measuring loop 9 are connected. The input card detects and evaluates the voltage values ​​at the measuring loop 9 and sends a signal to the output device 11 – analogous to the first, second, and third embodiments. In a further alternative embodiment of the invention, the break sensor 10 of the measuring loop 9 is a transistor. In this embodiment, the transistor is connected with its base to the measuring loop 9 emerging from the housing.By changing the voltage at the base – i.e., by interrupting the measuring loop 9 – the state of the transistor changes, and the voltage from the power supply 8 is supplied to the output device 11. The output device 11 is a signal lamp that indicates the interruption of the measuring loop 9, and thus the bearing malfunction, by means of a light signal. The connection of the transistor in this compartment is made with respect to the polarity of the device in a manner known to those skilled in the art. Reference numeral list.

[0078] 1 - Linear bearing

[0079] 2 - Housing

[0080] 3 - Sliding rail

[0081] 4 lids

[0082] 5 - Chamber

[0083] 6 - Rolling elements

[0084] 7 - Diagnostic device for bearings

[0085] 8 - Power supply

[0086] 9 - Measuring loop

[0087] 10 - Fracture sensor of the measuring loop 11 - Output device

Claims

PATENT CLAIMS 1. Linear bearing (1) with a diagnostic device (7) for bearings, wherein the linear bearing (1) comprises a housing (2) with a chamber (5) with rolling elements (6) and a cover (4) for closing the chamber (5), wherein the diagnostic device (7) for bearings comprises a circuit comprising at least one measuring loop (9), characterized in that the circuit further comprises a power supply (8) for supplying the measuring loop (9) with energy, and the measuring loop (9) comprises at least one break sensor (10) of the measuring loop (9), wherein the diagnostic device (7) for bearings further comprises an output device (11) for signaling an interruption of the measuring loop (9), wherein the output device (11) is connected to the break sensor (10) of the measuring loop (9), wherein the at least one measuring loop (9) is guided through the housing (2) and simultaneously through the cover (4).

2. Linear bearing (1) with a diagnostic device (7) for bearings according to claim 1, characterized in that the fracture sensor (10) of the measuring loop (9) comprises an electrically actuated switching element, wherein an output contact of the switching element is connected to the output device (11).

3. Linear bearing (1) with a diagnostic device (7) for bearings according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fracture sensor (10) of the measuring loop (9) comprises a voltmeter or an ammeter.

4. Linear bearing (1) with a diagnostic device (7) for bearings according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the measuring loop (9) comprises a second breakage sensor (10) of the measuring loop (9), wherein the first breakage sensor (10) of the measuring loop (9) is connected between the power supply (8) and the housing (2), wherein the second breakage sensor (10) of the measuring loop (9) is connected between the housing (2) and the output device (11). ; Wi; J h INTERNAL 5. Linear bearing (1) with a diagnostic device (7) for bearings according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the housing (2) comprises at least two covers (4) for closing the chamber (5), wherein the at least one measuring loop (9) passes through the housing (2) and simultaneously through the at least two covers (4).

6. Linear bearing (1) with a diagnostic device (7) for bearings according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one measuring loop (9) tightly encloses a part of the housing (2) and a part of the cover (4).

7. Linear bearing (1) with a diagnostic device (7) for bearings according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the measuring loop (9) is an insulated conductor.

8. Linear bearing (1) with a diagnostic device (7) for bearings according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the diagnostic device (7) for bearings comprises a total of at least two circuits, each circuit comprising at least one measuring loop (9) with a breakage sensor (10) of the measuring loop (9), wherein the power supply (8) and the output device (11) are common to both circuits.

9. A method for diagnosing bearings comprising a phase of installing the electrical circuit on a linear bearing (1) to create a linear bearing (1) with a diagnostic device (7) for bearings according to one of the preceding claims, and a phase of detecting the linear bearing (1) in operation, characterized in that the phase of installing the electrical circuit comprises: - attaching the measuring loop (9) over the housing (2) and the cover (4) of the bearing; - Connection of at least one breakage sensor (10) of the measuring loop (9); - Connection of the output device (11) to the breakage sensor (10) of the measuring loop (9); - Connection of the measuring loop (9) to the power supply (8); 5 J / “ % SENTERNAL wherein the phase of sensing the linear bearing (1) during operation includes the detection of the interruption of the measuring loop (9) by the break sensor (10) of the measuring loop (9), wherein, when the cover (4) moves away from the housing (2), the measuring loop (9) is interrupted and the break sensor (10) of the measuring loop (9) detects this interruption and subsequently the output device ( 11) signals the interruption of the measuring loop (9).

10. Method for diagnosing bearings according to claim 9, characterized in that the measuring loop (9) comprises a second breakage sensor (10) of the measuring loop (9), wherein one breakage sensor (10) of the measuring loop (9) detects a value of an electrical input quantity and the second breakage sensor (10) of the measuring loop (9) detects a value of an electrical output quantity, wherein the output device (11) evaluates the value of the electrical quantities, wherein the output device (11) signals the interruption of the measuring loop (9) based on the evaluated values. Vi, I: WTERNAL

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