| abstract |
A hydrodynamic thrust, journal or combined radial and thrust bearing which may be mounted within a sealed housing assembly (10) which can, for example, be used to replace rolling element bearings. The bearing can be designed for mounting to either the shaft or housing. If mounted for rotation with the shaft, the bearing pads (12) move relative to a smooth support surface. The bearing includes a bearing pad structure (14) that may change shape and move in any direction (six degrees of freedom) to optimize formation of a converging wedge for hydrodynamic operation, equalization of load on the bearing pads in thrust bearings and to adjust for any shaft misalignment. |