Spherical bearing
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
A spherical bearing is a bearing that permits angular rotation about a central point in two orthogonal directions within a specified angular limit based on the bearing geometry. Typically these bearings support a rotating shaft in the [bore] of the inner ring that must move not only rotationally, but also at an angle.
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[edit] Construction
Construction of spherical bearings can be hydrostatic or strictly mechanical. A spherical bearing by itself can consist of an outer ring and an inner ring and a locking feature that makes the inner ring captive within the outer ring in the axial direction only. The outer surface of the inner ring and the inner surface of the outer ring are collectively considered the raceway and they slide against each other, either with a lubricant or a maintenance-free PTFE [Teflon] based liner. Some spherical bearings incorporate a race of ball-bearings allowing much more smooth operation.
[edit] Application
Spherical bearings are used in countless applications, wherever rotational motion must be allowed to change the alignment of its rotation axis. A prime example is a tie rod on a vehicle suspension. The mechanics of the suspension allow the axle to move up and down, but the linkages are designed to control that motion in one direction only and they must allow motion in the other directions. Spherical bearings have been used in Computer mice, car suspensions, trackballs, driveshafts, heavy machinery, sewing machines, and many other applications.
[edit] See also
- Bearing (mechanical)
- Self-aligning ball bearing
- Ball joint / Heim joint
- Ball and socket joint (animal anatomy / skeletal system)
