Variable Area Journal Bearing

Abstract

A method of adjusting a load-bearing capacity of a hydrodynamic plain journal bearing for a journal is provided comprising providing a hydrodynamic plain journal bearing having a circumference, wherein a load-bearing capacity of the journal bearing varies around the bearing circumference; providing the hydrodynamic plain journal bearing in a journal bearing support structure, wherein the support structure supports the hydrodynamic plain journal bearing around the journal; and rotating the hydrodynamic plain journal bearing within the support structure to change a position of the load-bearing capacity of the journal bearing relative to the journal. 

Patent Number
9,512,871
Date Of Issue
Inventors

Charles E. Roberts Jr.