Patent ID: 6786642
Filing Date: 2004-09-07
Classification: F16C

Abstract:
A foil-fluid bearing assembly adapted for supporting a shaft within an outer bearing housing, the foil-fluid bearing assembly comprising:a bearing sleeve having an outer surface and an inner circumferential surface diametrically sized to receive the shaft therewithin such that an annular clearance gap is radially defined between an outer surface of the shaft and the inner circumferential surface, the annular clearance gap adapted for accommodating fluid therein and axially extending along a substantial portion of a length of the bearing sleeve; a foil element disposed within the annular clearance gap; a compliant bearing support contiguously disposed between the outer surface of the bearing sleeve and the outer bearing housing, and permitting elastic deflection of the compliant bearing support, independent of movement of the foil element; and the compliant bearing support comprising at least two independent compliant support elements respectively having a first and a second modulus of elasticity, wherein the first modulus of elasticity is less than the second modulus of elasticity; whereby angular misalignment capability for the foil-fluid bearing is provided by the compliant bearing support.