System for isolating electrical current in a bearing for use in an aircraft structure

US9482269B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Roller Bearing Company of America, Inc. · US

Inventors

• John W. Fruin · Trumbull, US
• Ben Anderson · Scarsdale, US
• Maura Simpson · Fairfield, US
• Andrew Henn · Monroe, US
• Kevin Bryant · Dix Hills, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Sep 17, 2015
• Grant date: Nov 1, 2016
• Expiry date: Sep 17, 2035

Classification

• Technology area (CPC F): Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
• CPC primary: F16C2326/43
• WIPO field: Mechanical elements
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A system for isolating electrical current in an aircraft structure includes a first structure a bearing having an outer race and an inner race and a liner disposed therebetween, the outer race having a second structure coupled thereto. A dielectric seal is secured to the outer race and engages the inner race. A conditionally non-conductive gas occupies a sealed chamber that defines a gap between the inner race and the outer race. The gap has a predetermined magnitude sufficient to prevent electrical arcing or current leakage between the inner race and the outer race at a first voltage less than that voltage resulting from a lightning strike; and/or to conduct an electrical current between the inner race and the outer race at a second voltage greater than or equal to the voltage resulting from the lightning strike.