Patent ID: 9057401
Filing Date: 2015-06-16
Classification: F16C,Y10T

Abstract:
1. An apparatus forming a foil journal bearing comprising: a retainer member having an inner surface that defines an opening, said opening configured to receive a rotatable member; a top foil trailing edge tab slot extending into said retainer member; a top foil leading edge tab slot extending into said retainer member; a top foil having a trailing edge tab and a leading edge tab; wherein the trailing edge tab is disposed in the trailing edge tab slot; wherein the leading edge tab is disposed in the leading edge tab slot; a backup support structure positioned between and at least partially defined by said top foil trailing edge tab slot and said top foil leading edge tab slot, and said backup support structure integral to said retainer member; whereupon, in the absence of rotation of the rotatable member, the trailing edge tab is not in contact with the backup support; whereupon, during rotation of the rotatable member, the trailing edge tab is urged into contact with the backup support.