Zero clearance linear bearing apparatus

Abstract

A zero clearance linear bearing wherein a hollow, elongate cylindrical member is provided with a number of peripheral projections or castellations at opposite ends thereof. Alternate ones of such castellations or projections extend outwardly away from the axis of rotation of the cylindrical member while other alternate ones of such projections extend inwardly toward the axis of rotation of the cylindrical member. The terminal portion of each inwardly directed projection is adapted to contact and grip an associated member e.g. a shaft, along which the bearing is slideably moveable while the outwardly directed projections are adapted to contact and grip the inner circular bore of a surrounding sleeve-like support member with which the bearing is operably associated. The internal bore of the support member includes an axial circular land, the opposite chamfered edges of which permit the outwardly projecting castellations of the bearing member to snap thereover and act to retain the bearing member within the sleeve member while enabling the bearing and sleeve support to slide along the associated shaft member. The construction and arrangement of the castellations is such that a predetermined space is provided between the inner bore of the support member and the main body of the bearing member and between the internal bore of the main body of the bearing member and the external surface of the associated shaft member along which the linear bearing is slideably moveable.