Bearing housing incorporating antimicrobial agent
US6623169B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 18, 1999 |
| Grant date | Sep 23, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 18, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16C35/047
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A molded polymeric bearing housing is formed of a moldable polymer base material in combination with a glass fiber reinforcing component. A foaming agent is added to the base material to create a fine structural foam within interior regions of the housing. A density gradient is established between regions adjacent to the surfaces of the housing and the internal regions, thereby reducing the need for reinforcing ribs particularly in a base or mounting portion of the housing. An antimicrobial agent may be added to the housing material to inhibit the growth and proliferation of fungi, molds, bacteria, and so forth. Structural features of the housing may be formed subsequent to the molding process, such as by turning operations. Metal inserts may be provided to avoid crushing of regions of the housing, such as by attachment fasteners. The housing forms a mounting base surface in a single plane coextensive with the footprint of the housing. When the housing is placed in service moisture and debris is prevented from collecting below the housing by conformity of the mounting base surface with the machine support surface. The housing may be formed in a variety of styles, including pillow b…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.