MAGNETIC THRUST BEARING (VERSIONS) Russian patent published in 1999 - IPC

FIELD: mechanical engineering. SUBSTANCE: magnetic thrust bearing magnetized with magnetostatic shear field has annular rotating member (or shaft) with rim (or supporting portion) arranged between pair of teeth of horseshoe-shaped control member. Magnetic field generated by permanent magnet penetrates through overhung cantilevered arm to create attracting force between magnetized surfaces of cantilevered arm and upper end surface of shaft. Shaft is supported in balanced state by attracting shear force so that rim is disposed in equally spaced relation to teeth pair surfaces between them. Windings wound on shaft are positioned within horseshoe-shaped control member. Upon delivery of signal by position sensors following variations in axial position of shaft, electric current is directed through windings to excite electromagnetic field for stabilizing middle position of rim between surfaces of teeth pair. Such bearing may be also used in systems with horizontal shaft, for instance in engines. EFFECT: increased efficiency by applying low electromagnetic energy for controlling axial position of rotary member. 24 cl, 6 dwg