Removing segments of radial fluid film bearings

Abstract

This disclosure describes systems and methods for removing a segment of a multi-segment radial fluid film bearing. A fixture assembly (300) is provided including a fixture frame (306) and a coupler (310) movably connected to the frame for relative linear movement in an extraction direction. The fixture frame is releasably held against a structure in which the segment is mounted, with the extraction direction extending parallel to an axis of the radial fluid film bearing. The coupler is releasably connected to the segment. The segment is extracted from the structure by moving the coupler in the extraction direction with the segment connected. The segment slides along and is supported by two spaced apart rails (318) of the fixture frame.

Description

[0001] Atty Docket No.: 49379-0281 WO1

[0002] REMOVING SEGMENTS OF RADIAL FLUID FILM BEARINGS CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.

[0003] 63 / 769,623 filed March 10, 2025, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety7.

[0004] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0005] This invention relates to bearings in turbomachinery, and more particularly to radial fluid film bearings.

[0006] BACKGROUND

[0007] Turbomachinery is used in many industries including power generation, aviation, and transportation. Examples of turbomachinery include turbines such as wind turbines and tidal turbines. A turbine transfers mechanical energy7from a fluid to a rotor. The rotor is attached to a shaft that rotates with the rotor. The shaft is supported by bearings to reduce friction and support loads exerted on the shaft. Radial bearings support radial loads of the shaft (e.g., loads not parallel to the axis of rotation). Radial fluid film bearings can be used in, for example, high-speed, high-performance applications to support the shaft with a thin layer of fluid (e.g., an oil or other lubricant) to reduce friction between solid bearing pads and the shaft by reducing direct contact between the solid surfaces. Removing and replacing radial fluid film bearings that have worn out or otherwise failed can be a costly undertaking resulting in operational downtime and potential damage to equipment.

[0008] SUMMARY

[0009] This disclosure describes an approach including a fixture for removing, installing, and / or handling segments of a radial fluid film bearing. The fixture can include a frame with rails, a coupler to interface between the bearing segment and the fixture, and a loading mechanism to translate the bearing segment relative to the fixture (e.g.. into or out of a bearing housing). The fixture can be releasably held against a structure in which the segment is mounted with an extraction direction extending parallel to an axis of the radial fluid film bearing. The coupler can be releasably connected to the segment. TheAtty Docket No.: 49379-0281 WO1

[0010] segment can be extracted from the structure by moving the coupler in the extraction direction with the segment connected. The segment can slide along and be supported by two spaced apart rails of the fixture frame.

[0011] One aspect of the invention features a method of removing a segment of a multisegment radial fluid film bearing includes providing a fixture assembly including a fixture frame and a coupler movably connected to the frame for relative linear movement in an extraction direction; releasably holding the fixture frame against a structure in which the segment is mounted, with the extraction direction extending parallel to an axis of the radial fluid film bearing; releasably connecting the coupler to the segment; and extracting the segment from the structure by moving the coupler in the extraction direction with the segment connected, with the segment sliding along and supported by two spaced apart rails of the fixture frame.

[0012] In some examples, holding the fixture frame against the structure includes releasably securing the fixture frame to the structure.

[0013] In some embodiments, the segment includes a bearing pad and a pad support coupled to the pad at a ball and socket pivot, and wherein extracting the segment comprises extracting the bearing pad and pad support together.

[0014] In some cases, releasably connecting the coupler to the segment includes separately connecting the coupler to both of the bearing pad and the pad support.

[0015] Some embodiments include, after extracting the segment from the structure: releasing the fixture frame from the structure with the coupler connected to the segment; moving the fixture assembly away from the structure; and then disconnecting the coupler from the segment.

[0016] In some instances, during extracting of the segment, opposite lateral sides of the segment are slidingly engaged by the rails of the fixture frame.

[0017] In some embodiments, extracting the segment includes turning a threaded rod attached to the coupler and engaged by a thread to the frame.

[0018] In some cases, the threaded rod is disposed between the spaced apart rails of the fixture frame.

[0019] Some examples include moving an end plate of the fixture frame to align the threaded rod with the segment.

[0020] In some cases, as releasably held to the structure, the fixture frame has an outer rim that engages an inside bore of a rim of the structure.Atty Docket No.: 49379-0281 WO1

[0021] Another aspect of the invention features a fixture for removing a segment of a multi-segment radial fluid film bearing includes a frame including two rails spaced apart configured to align and guide the segment relative to the multi-segment radial fluid film bearing; a first plate configured to removably attach to the segment, the first plate including surfaces oriented to slidingly engage the rails; a second plate removably secured to the first plate, the second plate including surfaces oriented to slidingly engage the rails; and a loading mechanism engaged with the second plate and the frame, the loading mechanism configured to linearly translate the first plate and the second plate in an extension direction along the rails.

[0022] In some cases, the fixture is configured to be releasably held against a structure associated with the radial fluid film bearing.

[0023] In some examples, the frame includes one or more alignment pins configured to align the fixture relative to the structure to enable extraction or insertion of the segment.

[0024] In some instances, the two rails are configured to support a weight of the segment. In some embodiments, the frame includes two end plates, and the two rails extend between the two end plates.

[0025] In some examples, the two rails are a first set of rails, and the fixture includes a second set of rails and a third set of rails, and the first set of rails is configured to support a bottom portion of the segment, the second set of rails is configured to support a side portion of the segment, and the third set of rails is configured to slide within a groove of the segment.

[0026] In some embodiments, the first, second, and third sets of rails are configured to maintain alignment of the segment with the radial fluid film bearing during insertion or extraction of the segment.

[0027] In some instances, the loading mechanism includes a threaded rod fit between the two end plates.

[0028] In some implementations, at least one of the two end plates includes a sleeve bearing through which the threaded rod extends.

[0029] In some cases, the sleeve bearing is eccentric and rotatable within the end plate to align the threaded rod.

[0030] In some embodiments, the second plate defines a threaded aperture, and the threaded rod extends through the threaded aperture, where threads of the aperture mate with threads of the threaded rod.Atty Docket No.: 49379-0281 WO1

[0031] In some cases, an end of the threaded rod is configured to be engaged by a tool to turn the threaded rod and translate the second plate.

[0032] In some examples, the first plate defines two slots, and the second plate includes two protrusions that extend into the two slots.

[0033] In some instances, the first plate and second plate are attached by fasteners extending through the protrusions in the second plate and into the first plate.

[0034] In some cases, the fixture includes a locking device configured to secure the segment relative to the fixture.

[0035] In some examples, the two rails each include an interface feature shaped based on a geometry of a side of the segment such that the interface feature fits the geometry' of the side of the segment.

[0036] In another aspect of the invention, an assembly includes a bearing segment for a multi-segment radial fluid film bearing; and a fixture holding the bearing segment The fixture includes a frame including two rails spaced apart configured to align and guide the segment relative to the multi-segment radial fluid film bearing; a first plate configured to removably attach to the segment, the first plate including surfaces oriented to slidingly engage the rails; a second plate removably secured to the first plate, the second plate including surfaces oriented to slidingly engage the rails; and a loading mechanism engaged with the second plate and the frame, the loading mechanism configured to linearly translate the first plate and the second plate in an extension direction along the rails.

[0037] In some embodiments, the fixture is configured to be releasably held against a structure associated with the radial fluid film bearing.

[0038] In some examples, the frame includes one or more alignment pins configured to align the fixture relative to the structure to enable extraction or insertion of the bearing segment.

[0039] In some cases, the two rails support a weight of the bearing segment.

[0040] In some instances, the frame includes two end plates, and the two rails extend between the two end plates.

[0041] In some embodiments, the two rails are a first set of rails, and the fixture further includes a second set of rails and a third set of rails, and the first set of rails supports a bottom portion of the bearing segment, the second set of rails supports a side portion of the bearing segment, and the third set of rails is slidably disposed within a groove of the bearing segment.Atty Docket No.: 49379-0281 WO1

[0042] In some cases, the first, second, and third sets of rails are configured to maintain alignment of the bearing segment with the radial fluid film bearing during insertion or extraction of the bearing segment.

[0043] In some embodiments, the loading mechanism includes a threaded rod fit between the two end plates.

[0044] In some instances, at least one of the two end plates includes a sleeve bearing through which the threaded rod extends.

[0045] In some cases, the sleeve bearing is eccentric and rotatable within the end plate to align the threaded rod.

[0046] In some implementations, the second plate defines a threaded aperture, and the threaded rod extends through the threaded aperture, where threads of the aperture engage with threads of the threaded rod.

[0047] In some cases, an end of the threaded rod is shaped to be engaged by a tool to turn the threaded rod and translate the second plate.

[0048] In some examples, the first plate defines two slots, and the second plate includes two protrusions that extend into the two slots.

[0049] In some instances, the first plate and second plate are attached by fasteners extending through the protrusions in the second plate and into the first plate.

[0050] Some examples also include a locking device configured to secure the bearing segment relative to the fixture.

[0051] In some cases, the two rails each include an interface feature shaped based on a geometry' of a side of the bearing segment such that the interface feature fits the geometry of the side of the bearing segment.

[0052] Implementations of the systems and methods of this disclosure can provide various technical benefits. For example, including guiding rails, backplates, a leadscrewbased linear motion mechanism, and / or locking devices, can enable bearing segments to be safely inserted, removed, and aligned within a bearing housing without damaging the bearing elements. The fixture can be easily tailored to different bearing sizes by adapting dimensions of the fixture to correspond to dimensions of a targeted radial bearing. The fixture can be manufactured as a multi-part assembly using standard metalworking. Alternatively, the fixture can be cast, or 3D-printed as a monolithic structure. Due to the variety of manufacturing methods available, material selection for the fixture can be easily adapted to a targeted application. Securing the fixture to the bearing housing using high-strength bolts through existing end-cover holes improves reliability in positioningAtty Docket No.: 49379-0281 WO1

[0053] and strength of the fixture by leveraging the housing’s existing features. The fixture can have a high load capacity while maintaining accurate alignment, and minimal risk of damage to bearing surfaces.

[0054] The fixture provides a safer and more reliable way for technicians to install and removing bearing components as compared to conventional methods that can result in misalignments, surface damage, and / or worker injury. By stabilizing and guiding the bearing pad, pivot, and cartridge, the fixture can streamline maintenance procedures and reduce human errors. The fixture can reduce maintenance times, lower the risks of costly component breakage and decrease required operator training for removing and / or replacing bearing segments. Using a fixture as described herein can reduce downtime and labor hours for maintenance, thus improving customer satisfaction and cutting overall costs. Such fixtures may also expand service capabilities by enabling safe, in-field bearing swaps for large rotating equipment. The fixture also provides a compact solution in the axial direction (e.g., along the shaft) enabling the fixture to be used in space restricted applications.

[0055] The details of one or more embodiments of the invention are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, objects, and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims.

[0056] DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a schematic side view of a wind turbine system.

[0057] FIG. 2A is a schematic representation of the rotating portion of the wind turbine system.

[0058] FIG. 2B is a perspective view of a radial fluid film bearing.

[0059] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an example fixture engaged with a structure of a multi-segment radial fluid film bearing to extract a segment of the bearing.

[0060] FIGS. 4A-4B are perspective views of an example fixture for removing a segment of a multi-segment radial fluid film bearing.

[0061] FIGS. 5A-5B are perspective views of a coupling plate to couple a bearing segment to the fixture of FIGS. 4A-4B.

[0062] FIGS. 6A-6B are perspective views of a shuttle plate attached to the coupling plate of FIG. 5 A to enable the fixture to translate the bearing segment.Atty Docket No.: 49379-0281 WO1

[0063] FIGS. 7A-7B are perspective and side views of a bearing segment supported by rails of the fixture of FIGS. 4A-4B.

[0064] FIGS. 8A-8C are side and perspective views of rails of the fixture engaged with grooves in a bearing segment.

[0065] FIGS. 9A-9B are cross-section views of a loading mechanism in the fixture of FIGS. 4A-4B.

[0066] FIG. 10 is an example progression of manipulating a fixture to orient the fixture with a structure of a radial fluid film bearing.

[0067] FIG. 11 illustrates vertically loading or removing a bearing segment from a fixture.

[0068] FIGS. 12A-12B are perspective and detailed views of a locking device configured to secure a bearing segment relative to a fixture.

[0069] FIG. 13 is a flow chart for a method of removing a segment of a multi-segment radial fluid film bearing.

[0070] FIGS. 14A-14B are perspective views of another example fixture for removing bearing segments.

[0071] FIGS. 15A-15B are perspective views of another example fixture for removing bearing segments.

[0072] FIGS. 16A-16B are perspective views of another example fixture for removing bearing segments.

[0073] FIGS. 17A-17B are side and perspective views of example rails for a fixture shaped to correspond with a geometry of a bearing segment.

[0074] FIGS. 18A-18B are side and perspective views of example rails for a fixture shaped to correspond with a geometry of a bearing segment.

[0075] Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like elements.

[0076] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0077] This disclosure describes an approach including a fixture for removing, installing, and / or handling segments of a radial fluid film bearing. The fixture can include a frame with rails, a coupler to interface between the bearing segment and the fixture, and a loading mechanism to translate the bearing segment relative to the fixture (e g., into or out of a bearing housing). The fixture can be releasably held against a structure in which the segment is mounted with an extraction direction extending parallel to an axis of the radial fluid film bearing. The coupler can be releasably connected to the segment. TheAtty Docket No.: 49379-0281 WO1

[0078] segment can be extracted from the structure by moving the coupler in the extraction direction with the segment connected. The segment can slide along and be supported by two spaced apart rails of the fixture frame.

[0079] Referring first to FIG. 1, wind turbine system 100 includes a nacelle 102, turbine blades 104, a hub 106, and a tower 108. The nacelle 102, the turbine blades 104, and the hub 106 are part of a rotor assembly that sits atop the tower 108. Turbine system 100 generates electricity from wind and may float off-shore or be land-based. The nacelle 102 can also include a yaw mechanism (not shown) that allows it to rotate to face the wind direction.

[0080] Referring to FIG. 2A, nacelle 102 has a housing 110 enclosing functional subsystems of the turbine system, including a shaft 202 connecting the hub 106 to an electrical generator 204, one or more radial bearings 206 (e.g., journal bearings) supporting the shaft, and / or one or more axial bearings 208 (e.g., thrust bearings) resisting axial loads applied to the hub 106. The bearings receive and support loads of the shaft 202 while allowing the shaft 202 to move as desired in at least one degree of freedom.

[0081] Kinetic energy from wind interfacing with the turbine blades 104 causes the shaft 202 to rotate. The generator 204 is coupled with the shaft 202 and is configured to convert the kinetic energy to electrical energy. In some implementations, the generator 204 includes a gearbox connecting the shaft to the generator, e.g., to increase the rotational speed at the generator 204.

[0082] The radial bearings 206 include a first radial bearing 206a and a second radial bearing 206b spaced apart along the shaft 202. The radial bearings 206 are configured to bear radial loads of the shaft 202, such as loads generally applied in a radial direction that is not parallel to the longitudinal axis of the shaft 202, including the weight of the rotating components. The axial bearings 208 include a first axial bearing 208a and a second axial bearing 208b. The axial bearings 208 are configured to bear axial loads of the shaft 202, such as loads generally applied in an axial direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the shaft 202. The shaft 202 has a thrust collar 210 located, in the axial direction, between the first axial bearing 208a and the second axial bearing 208b. Axial loads in a direction toward the turbine blades 104 are supported by the first axial bearing 208a, and axial loads in a direction toward the generator 204 are supported by the second axial bearing 208b. In many cases, the axial loads pushing the shaft toward the generator areAtty Docket No.: 49379-0281 WO1

[0083] the larger axial loads and, in some cases, the first axial bearing 208a may be omitted or designed for much lower loads.

[0084] FIG. 2B is a perspective view of a portion of an example radial fluid film bearing 250. The radial fluid film bearing 250 can be used in systems such as wind turbines, tidal turbines, or other turbomachinery. For example, the radial fluid film bearing 250 can be the radial bearing 206 in the wind turbine system 100. The radial fluid film bearing 250 has a housing 252 and multiple bearing segments 254. Each bearing segment 254 includes a bearing pad 256 and a cartridge 258. A shaft 260 extends through the radial fluid film bearing 250. The radial fluid film bearing 250 supports the radial loads of the shaft 260. In operation, a thin fluid film exists between the shaft 260 and the bearing pads 256 such that there is no contact between the shaft 260 and the bearing pads 256 except during the startup and the shutdown phases of operation. Rotation of the shaft 260 generates pressure in the fluid film as the fluid is pulled into a converging geometry between the shaft 260 and the bearing pads 256.

[0085] The bearing segments 254 are independently removably from the housing 252 thereby enabling individual bearing segments 254 or portions of bearing segments 254 (e.g., bearing pad 256 or cartridge 258) to be removed and replaced without having to replace the entirety' of the radial bearing 250. A strap 262 is bolted to the housing 252 to retain the bearing segments 254 in place during use. In some implementations, the cartridge can be retained in the housing 252 by bolts extending radially through the housing 252 without using the straps 262. The bearing pads 256 can be tilting pads and can be coupled to the cartridge 258 through a pivot (e.g., a ball and socket, a point contact, a line contact, or a compliant joint). Use of tilting pad bearings can be advantageous to provide better stability, to better adapt to load condition variations, and to reduce vibrations as compared with fixed geometry bearings.

[0086] Referring to FIG. 3, an example fixture 300 is engaged with a housing 302 of a radial fluid film bearing 304. The fixture 300 is a specialized assembly for installing, removing, and handling bearing segments for the radial fluid film bearing 304. The bearing segment can include a slide bearing pad (e.g., a radial pad), a pivot or ball-and-socket arrangement, and a cartridge. The fixture 300 enables components of the bearings segment to be safely inserted into, removed from, and aligned with the bearing housing 302 without damaging the components or the bearing 304. The fixture 300, as shown, is secured to the housing 302 with bolts 312. In some implementations, the fixture 300 can be secured to the housing using other types of fasteners. In some implementations, theAtty Docket No.: 49379-0281 WO1

[0087] fixture 300 can be held against the housing 302 with another device such as a hydraulic actuator or a robotically actuated arm.

[0088] The fixture 300 aids alignment of the bearing segment to avoid damage to the bearing or parts during a replacement operation. For example, the fixture 300 stabilizes and guides the segment components relative to the housing 302 during insertion and removal thereby reducing unwanted displacements, tilting, or dropping of the segment components. The fixture 300 can be used with multiple types of bearing assemblies including, for example, radial bearings with tilt pads, ball-and-socket joints, flexible pivots, and / or cartridges.

[0089] The fixture 300 can be designed based on the size, geometry', and / or environment of the bearing in a particular application. This versatility’ enables the fixture 300 to be used in industries such as wind turbines or heavy machinery' where large radial bearings require careful handling. For example, the fixture enables safe mechanical replacement of heavy radial bearing pad modules and radial bearing parts in small, confined spaces such as the top of the tower in the nacelle of a wind turbine. The weight and size of the radial bearing components increases the difficulty of handling and accurate alignment of the components with the bearing housing 302.

[0090] Referring to FIGS. 3, 4A, and 4B, the fixture 300 includes a frame 306, a loading mechanism 308, a coupler 310, and alignment and locking features. These features enable secure handling and precise alignment of the bearing segment with the bearing housing 302. The fixture 300 enables heavy parts to be safely lowered to the ground or lifted up to the bearing, with pre-assembly or disassembly of parts into the fixture 300 taking place on the ground.

[0091] The frame 306 provides rigidity to the fixture 300 and reduces a tendency for the fixture 300 to twist or skew during part changes compared with conventional methods. Tw isting or skew ing of the fixture can affect alignment accuracy during the change process. The frame 306 includes a front plate 314 and a back plate 316 (collectively referred to as endplates 314, 316) and rails 318 that extend between the front plate 314 and the back plate 316.

[0092] The endplates 314, 316 form the main support for the fixture by' tying the other parts of the fixture 300 together (e.g., loading mechanism 308 and coupler 310. The endplates 314, 316 can also provide a point of connection to a crane or other lifting device for manipulation and lifting of the fixture 300. The endplates 314. 316 can be made from, for example, steel for structural strength. Other materials can also be used to,Atty Docket No.: 49379-0281 WO1

[0093] for example, reduce the weight of the fixture 300 or to operate in extreme environments (e.g., highly corrosive environments).

[0094] The endplates 314, 316 can have multiple holes 320 drilled through them to reduce the weight of the endplates 314, 316 while maintaining sufficient structural strength. The endplates 314, 316 also include slots 322 that can be used to secure the fixture 300 to the bearing housing 302. Alternatively, or additionally, the slots 322 can be used to connect the fixture 300 to a crane or lifting device. In some implementations, the fixture 300 can be secured or held against the housing 302 using quick release pins or specialized clamps to provide more immediate locking solutions.

[0095] The front plate 314 includes alignment features 315 that are positioned to locate and align with complimentary holes in the bearing housing 302 to align the fixture 300 with the bearing segment slot for which the bearing segment is extracted or installed. The frame 306 includes feet 317 made from a softer material than the frame 306 (e.g., plastic) to protect the shaft in case the fixture 300 is accidentally lowered or dropped too far when positioning the fixture 300 relative to the housing 302.

[0096] The rails 318 include amain rail 326, a main side rail 328, and a side rail 330. The rails 318 connect the endplates 314, 316 together and act as guides for the radial bearing parts. The rails 318 can be made from, for example, aluminum to reduce the weight of the fixture 300 and enable steel parts to slide more easily due to the reduced frictional properties of aluminum. In some implementations, the rails 318 are made from steel, composite, polymer, or other structural material. In implementations where the rails 318 are made from a material different than the material of the end plates 314, 316, the interface between the rails and the end plates 314, 316 can be coated to mitigate corrosion caused by the dissimilar material. The rails 318 are attached to the endplates 314, 316 with bolts. The rails 318 include guiding channels for the bearing components (e.g., bearing pad, pivot, and cartridge). The rails 318 provide support for the bearing components and the coupler 310. The rails 318 can retain the bearing components in place in case the fixture is subjected to an impact (e g., dropped from the crane).

[0097] The loading mechanism 308 can include, for example, a lead screw 309 that uses the screw threads to multiply the forces required to push radial bearing parts in and out of the bearing. The loading mechanism 308 is engaged with the coupler 310 to linearly translate the coupler 310 in a direction aligned with the axis of the radial bearing 304. In some implementations, the loading mechanism 308 can include other types of actuators, for example, hydraulic or cable-based actuators in place of the lead screw 309.Atty Docket No.: 49379-0281 WO1

[0098] The coupler 310 includes two plates, a shuttle plate 332 and a tie plate 334 that are coupled and can move in tandem. Alternatively, the coupler 310 can be made from a single piece. The coupler 310 is discussed in more detail with reference to FIGS. 5A-6B, and the loading mechanism 308 is discussed in more detail with reference to FIGS. 9A and 9B.

[0099] The fixture 300 can be manufacture using standard fabrication methods for metals (e.g., steel, stainless steel, etc.) to achieve robust performance in temperatures ranging from, for example, -50 °C up to +60 °C or +80 °C. In extremely corrosive settings, stainless steel can be a preferred material due to its corrosion resistance. The loading mechanism 308 and endplates 314, 316 can be manufactures with precise machining to maintain desired tolerances. A crane can be used to lift and position the fixture 300 relative to a radial bearing, and then secured with existing end-cover holes in the radial bearing housing using large bolts. The fixture 300 can be aligned to the bearing housing using dowels or recesses.

[0100] The fixture 300 can be marketed and / or sold alongside radial bearing systems. Once dimensioned to a customer’s specific radial pad, pivot, or cartridge geometry, the fixture 300 can ship with the required fasteners (e g., M36 bolts), a manual detailing crane handling, pass-pin alignment, and leadscrew operation.

[0101] FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate the tie plate 334 of the coupler 310. The tie plate 334 is shaped to connect to a radial bearing pad 336 and cartridge 338. The tie plate 334 includes holes 340 aligned with holes in the radial bearing pad 336 when the tie plate 334 is aligned with the radial bearing pad 336. Screws can be inserted through the holes 340 to connect the tie plate 334 to the radial bearing pad 336. The tie plate334 also includes holes 342 that are aligned with corresponding holes in the cartridge 338 when the tie plate 334 is aligned with the cartridge 338. The tie plate 334 and cartridge 338 can be connected using screws inserted through holes 342. The tie plate 334 can be attached to the radial bearing pad 336 and cartridge 338 before the loading the radial bearing pad 336 into the fixture 300 for insertion to the radial bearing 304. Alternatively, the tie plate 334 can be attached to the radial bearing pad 336 and cartridge 338 installed in the radial bearing 304 prior to engaging the fixture 300 to the radial housing 302 for extraction. Attaching the tie plate 334 to the radial bearing 336 and cartridge 338 before inserting or extracting the radial bearing pad 336 and cartridge 338 makes it easier to insert the screws align the radial bearing pad 336 and cartridge 338 for extraction or insertion.Atty Docket No.: 49379-0281 WO1

[0102] Surfaces 346 on the tie plate 334 are positioned to slide on rails 318 of the fixture 300. The surfaces 346 facilitate the tie plate 334 to run true (e.g., without deviation) during a sliding movement of the tie plate.

[0103] Slots 348 enable the shuttle plate 332 to engage with the tie plate 334 before traversing the shuttle plate 332 along the fixture using the loading mechanism 308. Holes 350 allow screws to secure the shuttle plate 332 to the tie plate 334.

[0104] Referring to FIGS. 6A and 6B. the shuttle plate 332 is attached to the tie plate 334 forming the coupler 310 to enable the fixture 300 to translate the bearing segment. The shuttle plate 332 includes prongs 355 that align with slots 348 in the tie plate 334. Screws 356 can be inserted into holes 358 and engage with holes 350 to secure the shuttle plate 332 to the tie plate 334. Surfaces 360 on the shuttle plate 332 align with the surfaces 346 on the tie plate 332 and are configured to slide along the rails 318 to facilitate the coupler 310 to run true as the coupler 310 traverses the fixture 300.

[0105] The shuttle plate 332 also includes a slot 362 and hole 364 to accommodate the lead screw 309 of the loading mechanism 308. Holes 366 can be used to secure a nut plate to the shuttle plate 332 using, for example, screws or bolts. The lead screw 309 can protrude through the nut plate. The nut plate can provide the engagement between the shuttle plate 332 and the loading mechanism 308. With the shuttle plate 332 coupled to the tie plate 334 and the tie plate 334 attached to the bearing pad 336 and the cartridge 338, engagement between the shuttle plate 332 and the loading mechanism 308 can shuttle or traverse the assembly 368 along the lead screw 309 in both directions (e.g., toward or away from the bearing housing 302).

[0106] FIGS. 7A-8C show configurations of the radial bearing pad 336 and cartridge 338 engaging with the rails 318. For clarity, the endplates 314, 316 and coupler 310 are not shown in FIGS. 7A-8C. As described above, the fixture 300 includes rails 318 to guide the radial bearing pad 336 and cartridge 338 into or out of the housing 302 during a removal or installation operation. The rails 318 can be made from suitable materials to support the weight of the radial bearing pad 336 and cartridge 338 and be sufficiently rigid to avoid deflection of the rails 318 during use. Example materials include metals such as steel and aluminum, composites, and polymers. The rails 318 define guiding channels 370, 372 in which the radial bearing pad 336 or cartridge 338 ride. The channels 370, 372 prevent the radial bearing pad 336 and cartridge 338 from shifting or falling out of position while traversing the fixture 300. The rails 318 can be sufficiently robust such that if the fixture 300 is subject to an impact (e.g., a drop or collision with anotherAtty Docket No.: 49379-0281 WO1

[0107] structure), the radial bearing pad 336 and the cartridge 338 can remain in place in the fixture 300. The rails 318 include the main rails 326, the main side rails 328, and the side rails 330.

[0108] The main rail 326 and the main side rail 328 interface with the cartridge 338 and support the comers 374 of the cartridge 338 in the channel 370. The side rails 330 include a protruding rib 376 that is sized to fit within grooves 378 in the radial bearing pad 336. The ribs 376 stabilize the radial bearing pad 336 inhibiting tilting or rotation of the radial bearing pad 336 in both the radial and axial directions.

[0109] Because the radial bearing pad 336 and the cartridge 338 can each be secured to the tie plate 334 independently, and the radial bearing pad 336 and the cartridge 338 are supported separately by the rails 318, the radial bearing pad 336 can be inserted or removed from the radial bearing 304 independently from the cartridge 338 and vice versa. For example, if only the radial bearing pad 336 needs to be replaced, the fixture 300 can be used to extract just the radially bearing pad 336 from the radial bearing 304.

[0110] Subsequently, the fixture 300 can be used to install a radially bearing pad 336 without a cartridge 338. Similarly, if the cartridge 338 needs to be inserted or extracted separately, it can be accomplished using the fixture 300.

[0111] Referring to FIGS. 9A-9B the loading mechanism 308 includes a lead screw mechanism 380. The lead screw mechanism 380 includes a lead screw 309. a lead screw nut 382, a nut plate 384, a bearing sleeve plate 386, washers 388, and sleeve bearings 390. The lead screw mechanism 380 converts rotational motion into linear motion with a high mechanical advantage (e.g., a small rotational force can move a heavy load linearly) to push radial bearing parts in and out of the radial bearing 304 and fixture 300 via a sliding or shuttling motion. The loading mechanism 308 can be operated by tools, for example, a torque gun or torque wrench set at low torque settings. The lead screw 309 includes a feature 392 at an end of the lead screw 309 that is shaped to interface with a tool. Using a tool to actuate the loading mechanism 308 reduces or eliminates manual handling of the heavy’ parts. Additionally, using a lead screw mechanism 380 is advantages due to its relative low cost and robust and reliable operation.

[0112] The lead screw 309 can be made from steel and is positioned between the endplates 314, 316 by washers 388. The lead screw 309 can rotate freely. The lead screw 309 is held in position centrally by the sleeve bearings 390. The sleeve bearings 390 can be made from a plastic or polymer material. One sleeve bearing 390 can be press fit into the front plate 314 and another sleeve bearing 390 can be press fit into the bearing sleeveAtty Docket No.: 49379-0281 WO1

[0113] plate 386. The sleeve bearings 390 can be replaceable to improve the maintainability of the fixture 300. In some cases, at least one of the sleeve bearings 390 is eccentric and rotatable within the end plate to adjust the alignment of the lead screw 309. The bearing sleeve plate 386 can be attached to the back plate 316 by screws to allow adjustment of the lead screw 309 to align the sleeve bearings. Alternatively, the bearing sleeve plate 386 can be permanently secured to the back plate 316 using dowels if the lead screw 309 is aligned and running smoothly. The lead screw nut 382 is positioned between the nut plate 384 and the shuttle plate 332. The nut 382 can traverse the lead screw 309 when the lead screw is rotated. For example, when the Lead Screw 309 is turned (e.g., by a torque gun or wrench) the nut 382 pushes the shuttle plate 332 backward or forward along the lead screw 309 depending on the direction the lead screw 309 is rotated. When the shuttle plate 332 is attached to the tie plate 334, radial bearing pad 336 and cartridge 338, the lead screw nut 382 pushes or pulls the assembly 368 into or out of the radial bearing 304 or fixture 300.

[0114] Referring to FIG. 10 the fixture 300 can be manipulated to orient the fixture 300 with a structure of a radial fluid film bearing. The features of the fixture 300 can be used to determine an orientation of the fixture 300 prior to lifting the fixture 300 to be held against the bearing housing. For example, the outer diameter 394 of the endplates 314, 316 is designed to match an outer diameter of the bearing housing. Thus, aligning the outer diameter 394 with the bearing housing simplifies locating the alignment features 315 with the bearing housing. The endplates 314, 316 are shaped to allow the fixture 300 to be rotated into the correct orientation.

[0115] In the example manipulation shown in FIG. 10, in a first position 400, the fixture 300 is laying on a surface with the outer diameter 394 in contact with the surface. After determining that the fixture needs to be rotated, an operator can rotate the fixture 300 to a second position 402 in which the fixture 300 rests on a side 396. The operator can further rotate the fixture 300 to a third position 404 in which the feet 317 are in contact with the surface. The operator can rotate the fixture 300 into a fourth position in which the fixture 300 rests on the opposite side 398 from the side 396 in the second position 402. This manipulation can happen before the fixture 300 is lifted into place before extracting or installing a bearing segment thereby simplifying the alignment process once the fixture 300 is lifted.

[0116] FIG. 11 illustrates another configuration of the fixture 300 in which the fixture 300 rests on the back plate 316. With the fixture 300 resting on the back plate 316, theAtty Docket No.: 49379-0281 WO1

[0117] radial bearing segment 410 can be loaded into or removed from the fixture 300 in a vertical orientation. This orientation can simplify the loading or removal process by providing easier access to the portions of the fixture 300 that interface with the radial bearing segment 410 (e.g., rails 318 or shuttle plate 332).

[0118] Referring to FIGS. 12A and 12B a locking device 412 can be used to secure a bearing segment 414 relative to the fixture 300 once the bearing segment 414 is installed in the fixture 300. The locking device 412 can include a knob 416 (e.g., a plastic knob) that can be twisted or rotated to engage a post 418 with a slot 420 on the side of the cartridge 422. The post 418 can be a threaded post that is substantially perpendicular to the main rail 326. The post 418 protrudes through a hole in the main rail 326. The locking device 412 is a secondary safety to prevent the bearing segment 414 from falling out of the fixture in case an unforeseen event should occur while lifting or manipulating the fixture. A locking device 412 can be used on both sides of the bearing segment 414.

[0119] FIG. 13 is a flow chart for a method 450 of removing a segment of a multisegment radial fluid film bearing. The method 450 can be implemented by an operator at a wind or tidal turbine facility to remove and or replace a portion of the radial fluid film bearing.

[0120] A fixture assembly is provided (step 452). The fixture assembly includes a fixture frame and a coupler that is movably connected to the frame for relative linear movement in an extraction direction. The fixture assembly can be, for example, fixture 300 or any of the fixtures of FIGS. 14A-18B.

[0121] The fixture frame is releasably held against a structure in which the segment is mounted (step 454). The extraction direction extends parallel to an axis of the radial fluid film bearing. The fixture frame can be held by releasably securing the fixture frame to the structure (e.g., using screws or bolts). In some implementations, the fixture frame can be held against the structure using other means such as hydraulic, electric, or pneumatic actuators or robotically controlled arms. The segment can include, for example, a bearing pad and a pad support coupled to the pad at a ball and socket pivot. In some implementations, when the fixture frame is releasably held to the structure, the fixture frame has an outer rim that engages an inside bore of a rim of the structure.

[0122] The coupler is releasably connected to the segment (step 456). Connecting the coupler to the segment can include, for example, separately connecting the coupler to both a bearing pad and a pad support.Atty Docket No.: 49379-0281 WO1

[0123] The segment is extracted from the structure by moving the coupler in the extraction direction with the segment connected (step 458). The segment slides along and is supported by two spaced apart rails of the fixture frame. Extracting the segment can include, for example, extracting a bearing pad and a ball and socket pivot together. In some implementations, during extraction of the segment, opposite lateral sides of the segment are slidingly engaged by the rails of the fixture frame. In some implementations, extracting the segment includes turning a threaded rod that is attached to the coupler and engaged by a thread to the fixture frame. The threaded rod can be disposed between the spaced apart rails of the fixture frame. In some cases, an eccentric sleeve bearing within an end plate of the fixture frame can be rotated to align the threaded rod.

[0124] After extracting the segment from the structure, the fixture frame can be released from the structure with the coupler connected to the segment. The fixture assembly can be moved away from the structure, and then, the coupler can be disconnected from the segment.

[0125] A segment can be installed into the radial fluid film bearing by performing the method 450 in a reverse order. For example, the segment to be installed can be releasably coupled to the coupler and installed in the fixture assembly, the fixture assembly can be moved and releasably held against the structure. The bearing segment can be installed by translating the coupler in the direction opposite the extraction direction. The coupler can be removed from the bearing segment, and the fixture assembly can be removed from the structure.

[0126] Referring to FIGS. 14A-14B, an alternate embodiment of a fixture 500 to remove, install or handle a bearing segment includes a monolithic frame 502. The monolithic frame 502 includes integrated rails 504. The monolithic frame 502 can be manufactured, for example, by using an electric discharge machine (EDM) to cut a rail 504 or radial pad profile from a solid block of material (e.g., aluminum). Using a monolithic frame 502 can be advantageous to reduce weight and complexity of the fixture assembly (e.g., as compared with fixture 300). The fixture 500 functions and can be used in substantially the same manner as fixture 300. In some implementations, the monolithic frame 502 can be manufactured by casting or through additive manufacturing (e.g., three-dimensional (3D) printing). The monolithic frame 502 can also include alignment features 512 to align the fixture 500 relative to the bearing housing.

[0127] An end assembly 506 that includes rail portions 508 can be attached or connected to the monolithic frame 502. The end assembly enables a coupler 510 to be positioned toAtty Docket No.: 49379-0281 WO1

[0128] translate the bearing segment through the fixture 500. As with coupler 310, the coupler 510 is configured to attach to the bearing segment. A loading mechanism can be included integrally with the end assembly 506 or as a separate component.

[0129] Referring to FIGS. 15A-15B an example fixture 530 to remove bearing segments from a radial fluid film bearing includes several plates 532, 534, 536 to form a frame 538. The plates 532-536 can be thinner than the endplates 314, 316 because more plates are being used. Using thinner plates can result in overall reduced weight and / or cost of the fixture 530. The fixture 530 can also include a back plate 537 that is thicker than the plates 532-536 and has a larger footprint. The back plate 537 can be used to secure the fixture 530 to the housing of the bearing.

[0130] The fixture 530 includes rails 540 that are formed by the several plates 532-536 rather than as separate components. Plates 542, 544 are attached to the plates 532-536 to position and stabilize the frame 538. A coupler 546 is shaped to fit within the profile formed by the plates 532-536. The coupler 546 can connect to bearing segments to align the bearing segments and translate the bearing segments through the fixture 530.

[0131] The fixture 530 can be stored and / or shipped in a flat package by disassembling the plates 532-537 thereby reducing storage space requirements and / or shipping costs. The fixture 530 can also include modular parts that can be incorporated to adapt the size, shape, or configuration of the fixture 530 to a size, shape, and / or weight of the bearing segment.

[0132] Referring to FIGS. 16A-16B a lightweight fixture 560 can be assembled onto a bearing housing to remove a bearing segment from the bearing. The fixture 560 includes four rods 562, 564, 566, 568 that connect directly to the housing. The fixture 560 also includes a front plate 570 and back plate 572 to maintain the position of the rods 562-568. The fixture 560 includes a coupler 574 that can connect to a bearing segment. A crane can be connected to plate 575 to push or pull on the coupler 574 to move the coupler 574 along the rods 562-568 and screws 576 to move a bearing segment into a final position. The coupler 574 can slide along the rods 562-568 in a manner similar to machine tool guides.

[0133] The fixture 560 can be preassembled on the bearing housing thereby eliminating the need to lift the fixture 560 from the ground or lower the fixture 560 to the ground to insert or remove a bearing segment. The fixture 560 is a lower cost alternative to other fixtures described herein. The fixture 560 can be made from sheet metal. The fixture 560 can be stored or shipped in a flat pack to reduce storage space requirements and / orAtty Docket No.: 49379-0281 WO1

[0134] shipping costs. The fixture 560 can include modular parts enabling the size, shape, and / or configuration of the fixture 560 to be changed depending on the bearing segment size, shape, and / or weight.

[0135] FIGS. 17A-18B show examples of rails 600 and 602 that correspond with a geometry of a bearing segment. The rails 600 and 602 can be used to enable a standard journal pad or flexure pivot journal pad to be exchanged in a bearing without changing the radial pad geometry. The rails 600 and 602 can move radially and / or rotationally to adapt to changing pad sizes and geometries.

[0136] The rails 600 include grooves 604 that are sized to fit the edges of a bearing pad 606. A second set of rails 608 are positioned closer to one another to support a thinner portion 610 of the bearing pad 606. Similarly, the rails 602 include grooves 612 that are adapted to fit a curved bearing pad 614.

[0137] The rails 600, 602, and 608 can be used with the example fixtures described herein. For example, rails 600, 602, or 608 can be used in place of rails 318 or 540 to fit a shape or size of bearing segments for a particular application. In some implementations, the rails 600, 602, and 608 are interchangeable with the rails 318 or 540. For example, the rails 318 can be removed from fixture 300, and rails 600 and 608 or 602 can be installed in the fixture 300 to adapt the fixture 300 to a different shape or size of bearing segment.

[0138] While a number of examples have been described for illustration purposes, the foregoing description is not intended to limit the scope of the invention, which is defined by the scope of the appended claims. There are and will be other examples and modifications within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

Atty Docket No.: 49379-0281 WO1WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A method of removing a segment of a multi-segment radial fluid film bearing, the method comprising:providing a fixture assembly (300) comprising a fixture frame (306) and a coupler (310) movably connected to the frame (306) for relative linear movement in an extraction direction;releasably holding the fixture frame (306) against a structure (302) in which the segment (336) is mounted, with the extraction direction extending parallel to an axis of the radial fluid film bearing (304);releasably connecting the coupler (310) to the segment; andextracting the segment (336) from the structure (302) by moving the coupler (310) in the extraction direction with the segment (336) connected, with the segment (336) sliding along and supported by two spaced apart rails (318) of the fixture frame (306).

2. The method of claim 1, wherein holding the fixture frame (306) against the structure (302) comprises releasably securing the fixture frame (306) to the structure (302), and / or wherein, as releasably held to the structure (302), the fixture frame (306) has an outer rim that engages an inside bore of a rim of the structure.

3. The method of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the segment (336) comprises a bearing pad (336) and a pad support (338) coupled to the pad at a ball and socket pivot, and wherein extracting the segment (336) comprises extracting the bearing pad (336) and pad support (338) together, particularly wherein releasably connecting the coupler (310) to the segment (336) comprises separately connecting the coupler (310) to both of the bearing pad (336) and the pad support (338).

4. The method of any of the above claims, further comprising, after extracting the segment from the structure:releasing the fixture frame (306) from the structure (302) with the coupler (310) connected to the segment (336);moving the fixture assembly (300) away from the structure (302); and then disconnecting the coupler (310) from the segment (336).Atty Docket No.: 49379-0281 WO15. The method of any of the above claims, wherein during extracting of the segment (336), opposite lateral sides of the segment (336) are slidingly engaged by the rails (318) of the fixture frame (306).

6. The method of any of the above claims, wherein extracting the segment (336) comprises turning a threaded rod (309) attached to the coupler (310) and engaged by a thread to the frame (306), particularly wherein the threaded rod (309) is disposed between the spaced apart rails (318) of the fixture frame (306), and / or further comprising rotating a sleeve bearing (390) within an end plate (316) of the fixture frame (306) to align the threaded rod (318).

7. A fixture for removing a segment of a multi-segment radial fluid film bearing, the fixture comprising:a frame (306) comprising two rails (318) spaced apart configured to align and guide the segment relative to the multi-segment radial fluid film bearing;a first plate (334) configured to removably attach to the segment, the first plate comprising surfaces (346) oriented to slidingly engage the rails (318):a second plate (332) removably secured to the first plate (334), the second plate (332) comprising surfaces (348) oriented to slidingly engage the rails (318); anda loading mechanism (308) engaged with the second plate (332) and the frame (306), the loading mechanism (308) configured to linearly translate the first plate (334) and the second plate (332) in an extension direction along the rails (318).

8. The fixture of claim 7. wherein the fixture (300) is configured to be releasably held against a structure (302) associated with the radial fluid film bearing (304), particularly wherein the frame (306) comprises one or more alignment pins (315) configured to align the fixture (300) relative to the structure (302) to enable extraction or insertion of the segment.

9. The fixture of claim 7 or claim 8, wherein the two rails (318) are configured to support a weight of the segment, and / or wherein the frame (306) comprises two end plates (314, 316), and the two rails (318) extend between the two end plates (314, 316).Atty Docket No.: 49379-0281 WO110. The fixture of claim 9, wherein the two rails (318) are a first set of rails (326), and the fixture (300) further comprises a second set of rails (328) and a third set of rails (330), and the first set of rails (326) is configured to support a bottom portion of the segment (336), the second set of rails (328) is configured to support a side portion of the segment (336), and the third set of rails (330) is configured to slide within a groove (378) of the segment (336), particularly wherein the first, second, and third sets of rails are configured to maintain alignment of the segment (336) with the radial fluid film bearing (304) during insertion or extraction of the segment (336) and / or wherein the loading mechanism (308) comprises a threaded rod (309) fit between the two end plates (314, 316).

11. The fixture of claim 10, wherein the second plate (332) defines a threaded aperture (364), and the threaded rod (309) extends through the threaded aperture (364), wherein threads of the aperture (364) mate with threads of the threaded rod (309), and / or wherein an end of the threaded rod (309) is configured to be engaged by a tool to turn the threaded rod (309) and translate the second plate (332), and / or wherein at least one of the two end plates (314, 316) includes a sleeve bearing (390) through which the threaded rod (309) extends, particularly wherein the sleeve bearing (390) is eccentric and rotatable within the end plate (314, 316) to align the threaded rod (309).

12. The fixture of claim 7, wherein the two rails (318) each comprise an interface feature (376) shaped based on a geometry' of a side of the segment such that the interface feature (376) fits the geometry of the side of the segment (336).

13. An assembly comprising:the fixture (300) of any of claims 7 through 12, anda bearing segment (336) for a multi-segment radial fluid film bearing (304), held by the fixture.

14. The assembly of claim 13, wherein the fixture (300) is configured to be releasably held against a structure (302) associated with the radial fluid film bearing (304), particularly wherein the frame (306) comprises one or more alignment pins (315) configured to align the fixture (300) relative to the structure (302) to enable extraction or insertion of the bearing segment (336).Atty Docket No.: 49379-0281 WO115. The assembly of claim 13, wherein the two rails (318) support a weight of the bearing segment (336), and / or wherein the two rails (318) each comprise an interface feature (376) shaped based on a geometry of a side of the bearing segment (336) such that the interface feature (376) fits the geometry of the side of the bearing segment (336).

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