Linear bushing and bushing housing assemblies and methods

摘要

Various implementations include a linear bushing and a bushing housing assembly that allows the linear bushing to be accessed and replaced without removing the bushing housing assembly from a machine in which it is installed. In particular, the assembly includes a hinged bushing housing that opens to allow removal and replacement of the linear bushing. The housing also provides for easy alignment and secure placement of the linear bushing and is more easily accessible to an operator than current bushings and bushing housings. Thread or other fibers may be run through the bushing's longitudinal channel, which serves as a guide for the thread or fibers. In addition, the bushing and housing assembly may be installed in a textile machine or other types of machines that use linear bushings.

主权项

1. A linear bushing and bushing housing assembly comprising:
a linear bushing having an exterior wall and an interior wall, the interior wall defining a longitudinal channel; and a bushing housing comprising:
a first housing block and a second housing block, each housing block defining a longitudinal bushing receiving channel;the first and second housing blocks comprising hinge connection portions configured for hingedly connecting the housing blocks relative to each other, wherein the first and second housing blocks are moveable between an open position and a closed position about the hinge connection portions, wherein:
the exterior wall of the linear bushing is enclosed within the longitudinal bushing receiving channels of the first and second housing blocks when the housing blocks are in the closed position,the linear bushing comprises one or more flanges that project substantially radially outwardly from the exterior wall of the bushing,the hinge connection portions are disposed on a first side of the longitudinal bushing receiving channel of each of the first and second housing blocks,the first and second housing blocks each define flange receiving surfaces on a second side of each longitudinal bushing receiving channel, the first sides being opposite the second sides relative to a longitudinal axis extending along a length of each longitudinal bushing receiving channel, andthe flange receiving surfaces of the first and second housing blocks are configured for abutting at least a portion of the flange when the housing blocks are in the closed position.