Self-aligning spherical bushing means

Abstract

A self-aligning spherical bushing is disclosed to be positionable between an inner member and an outer member to allow movement therebetween. The bushing includes a first outer ring of generally cylindrical shape which includes a spherically concave inner surface. A second ring is included which is also generally cylindrical and includes a cylindrical central opening therethrough and a convex outer surface. The second ring is adapted to be captured within the first ring with the spherical surfaces mated with respect to one another movably. The inner and outer surfaces of the inner ring can include a lubrication groove extending circumferentially therearound. The outer ring can define a lubrication groove about the outer surface thereof. A lubrication aperture can connect the inner and outer surfaces of each ring. The spherical exterior surface of the inner ring is of a smaller spherical diameter than the concave spherical surface of the inner surface of the outer ring in order to provide necessary operating clearances. The outer surface of the inner ring also includes supplementary circular lubrication channels oriented with the plane of the circles parallel to the axis of the second ring and in fluid flow communication with respect to the lubrication aperture extending circumferentially around the outer surface of the inner ring. These circular channels intersect the lubrication channel at right angles and are regularly spaced at equal intervals therealong to eliminate any preferred position between the first and second rings.