Self-aligning dynamic hinge sleeve

US6688767B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• The Boeing Company · US

Inventors

• Edward G. Schellhase · Broomall, US
• Frank A. Smith · Mesa, US
• Steven J. Spear · Chester, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Dec 11, 2001
• Grant date: Feb 10, 2004
• Expiry date: Dec 11, 2021

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B64C27/39
• WIPO field: Transport
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A self-aligning dynamic hinge sleeve for attachment to a pitch hinge in a position that places the hinge sleeve in contact with a pitch bearing. The hinge sleeve is comprised of an inner race, a middle race and an outer race, wherein the middle race is an elastomeric material, or another soft material, that bonds the inner and outer races together and allows the inner race and outer race to rotate with respect to each other. As the pitch hinge transmits forces and moment to a pitch shaft, the dynamic hinge sleeve aligns with a pitch bearing secured onto the pitch shaft. This results in a self-aligning pitch bearing rotor that significantly reduces the level of peak that loads upon a bearing and thereby permits the use of self-lubricating bearings in a rotor.