US010494091B2

United States Patent ( 10 ) Patent No.: US 10,494,091 B2

Kizhakkepat et al. (45 ) Date of Patent: Dec. 3 , 2019
(54 ) HUB BOLT SUPPORTED INBOARD (58 ) Field of Classification Search
BEARING ASSEMBLIES CPC B64C 27/35; B64C 27/54 ; B64C 27/51
See application file for complete search history .
( 71) Applicant: Bell Helicopter Textron Inc., Fort
Worth , TX (US)
( 56 ) References Cited
(72 ) Inventors: Amarjit Olenchery Kizhakkepat, Fort U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
Worth , TX (US ); Robert Patrick
Wardlaw , Keller, TX (US ); John 4,028,002 A * 6/1977 Finney B640 27/35
Richard McCullough , Weatherford , TX 416/134 A
(US ); Frank Bradley Stamps, 4,257,739 A * 3/1981 Covington B64C 27/35
Colleyville, TX (US) ; Tyler Wayne 416/134 A
Baldwin , Keller, TX (US) 4,430,045 A * 2/1984 Cresap B64C 27/001
244 / 17.27
(73 ) Assignee : Bell Textron Inc., Fort Worth , TX (US) 5,186,686 A 2/1993 Staples et al.
5,316,442 A * 5/1994 Mouille B64C 27/35
416/134 A
(* ) Notice : Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this
patent is extended or adjusted under 35 (Continued )
U.S.C. 154(b ) by 48 days.
Primary Examiner Brian M O'Hara
(21) Appl. No.: 15 /990,625 (74 ) Attorney, Agent, or Firm — Lawrence Youst PLLC
(22) Filed : May 26 , 2018
(57 ) ABSTRACT
(65) Prior Publication Data
US 2019/0016458 A1 Jan. 17 , 2019 A proprotor system for a tiltrotor aircraft having helicopter
and airplane flight modes includes a yoke having a plurality
Related U.S. Application Data of blade arms each having an inboard pocket. Each of a
plurality of bearing assemblies is disposed at least partially
(63 ) Continuation of application No. 15 /648,650 , filed on within one of the inboard pockets with each bearing assem
Jul. 13 , 2017 bly including a bearing cage, a shear bearing and a centrifu
(51) Int. CI.
gal force bearing. Each of a plurality of inboard beams is
B64C 2735 ( 2006.01)
disposed at least partially between one of the centrifugal
B64C 29/00 ( 2006.01 )
force bearings and one of the shear bearings. Each of a
plurality of proprotor blades is coupled to one of the inboard
B64C 11/06 (2006.01 ) beams. Hub bolts couple each of the bearing cages to the
F16C 33/06 (2006.01) yoke such that the hub bolts provide centrifugal force load
F16C 17/10 ( 2006.01) paths between the bearing assemblies and the yoke inboard
(52 ) U.S. CI. of the inboard pockets .
CPC B64C 29/0033 ( 2013.01); B64C 11/06
(2013.01); F16C 17/10 (2013.01 ); F16C 33/06
(2013.01 ); F16C 2326/43 (2013.01) 20 Claims, 19 Drawing Sheets

824a 818b
818a
822a
824b
822b
-818

818e

0
818d 8180
 US 10,494,091 B2
Page 2

( 56 ) References Cited
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
5,601,408 A 2/1997 Hunter et al.
5,620,305 A 4/1997 McArdle
6,007,298 A 12/1999 Karem
6,296,444 B1 10/2001 Schellhase et al.
6,641,365 B2 11/2003 Karem
8,226,355 B2 7/2012 Stamps et al.
8,231,346 B2 * 7/2012 Stamps F16F 1/40
416/134 A
9,090,344 B2 * 7/2015 Stucki B64C 27/48
9,126,680 B2 9/2015 Stamps et al.
9,254,915 B2 2/2016 Stamps
9,656,747 B2 * 5/2017 Shundo B64C 11/02
2013/0105637 A1 5/2013 Stamps et al.
2014/0248150 A1 9/2014 Sutton et al.
* cited by examiner
U.S. Patent Dec. 3 , 2019 Sheet 1 of 19 US 10,494,091 B2

20b
22b 10

18
N -16

26 12

24b 14
22a 20a

24a
Fig . 1A -26

26

-24b
10 -16
-20b
18 12

22b
-24a 26
14
-24a

-20a

22a

Fig.1B
U.S. Patent Dec. 3 , 2019 Sheet 2 of 19 US 10,494,091 B2

112
116
-100
114
102
124 -108
126 132 134
130

Fig .2A

104 -102 -100

126 -108
118
122

120

Fig.2B
U.S. Patent Dec. 3 , 2019 Sheet 3 of 19 US 10,494,091 B2

110

108 -106
114
102
-100

-122a
-120
124 -122
104
Fig.2c 126

-122b
102a -102b
118

128

110 -100
106
112
102
114 -108
116

132
136
130

124 126

Fig.2D
128 ..
U.S. Patent Dec. 3 , 2019 Sheet 4 of 19 US 10,494,091 B2

204

-202 -200

206

-212
-214a

Fig.3A

-202
-200

-204
-216b
-212
o -206
-212a
-224

2162 214a
Fig.3B 212b
U.S. Patent Dec. 3 , 2019 Sheet 5 of 19 US 10,494,091 B2

216b
216a
212 212a 206
214d
218b
0

208
218a
214c
214a
210
208b
-202b
202a 212b

200

204
202

214b -208d

Fig.3C
U.S. Patent Dec. 3 , 2019 Sheet 6 of 19 US 10,494,091 B2

-206
200
-212a

210b
202 210a | 204 -208 220 202
210 1218a 208c
1208e -208b

210d
(222
212f
--208d
www 214b 212e -212c
212d
-212b
Fig.3D 208a

-212
-212

210 -212a

206

-208

214a

-208b

-208d

214b
-212b
210b
210a

Fig.3E
U.S. Patent Dec. 3 , 2019 Sheet 7 of 19 US 10,494,091 B2

212
206

210

208
210b
212e
-208g
210a -208f
218a
218b -212e
m
-212h
-212d
-212g
210d 212f -208a
-208e -208c

Fig.4A

-212 208f 208

208g
-212e
-208e
-212d
-208a
-208c
-212g
-212h
Fig.4C

Fig.4B
U.S. Patent Dec. 3 , 2019 Sheet 8 of 19 US 10,494,091 B2

312 -306

202 308e
204 320
-308 202

308g !
312h

312d 312g 308f

Fig.5A
312
306

308e
312g A 308f
312i
-308h
-308
312d

312h +

-320
V -308g

Fig.5B
U.S. Patent Dec. 3 , 2019 Sheet 9 of 19 US 10,494,091 B2

-312 308f
308
308g
312g
312h -308e
O
-312i
308h
-312d

Fig.5D

Fig.5C

-412 408f 408

408g
-412g

-412i
-408h

-412h

Fig.6D
Fig.6C
U.S. Patent Dec. 3 , 2019 Sheet 10 of 19 US 10,494,091 B2

412
-406

202 204
420
408 202

408g
412h

-408f
-412g

Fig.6A
412
406

)
un

-408g
-408f
412g
-408
412i

KUZA
MW

412h
408h
-420

Fig.6B
U.S. Patent Dec. 3 , 2019 Sheet 11 of 19 US 10,494,091 B2

516 502
514b
508 520a -500
-506 514 504
516

518a
516b

518b
516C
514a
()
510
520b
514c Fig.7A

502
514b
-508 -500
-506 514 504
516

516
518a
516b
514a
5160
518b

510
514c Fig.7B
U.S. Patent Dec. 3 , 2019 Sheet 12 of 19 US 10,494,091 B2

510 516

514 -500
516 518 514a
5160 520b
512a
518
512b

514c -512c

502
IETIS
-512d
-512

516a

Fig.7C
516
518b 516a
520b
510
516 -500

Ull

520b
518b
Fig.7D
U.S. Patent Dec. 3 , 2019 Sheet 13 of 19 US 10,494,091 B2

-60
624 -62 b -62 c
602
-614
622
-620 62 a
616a 6160 604a 612 -610
- 616 616b
? 604

618

618a 626b
-608
628a
626a 624a
606
628b 624b

Fig.8A
U.S. Patent Dec. 3 , 2019 Sheet 14 of 19 US 10,494,091 B2

620
614
-600
626a

624a -622d
602
-616a 624
622b
-622e
-616b

6160
604a
F
622a
622f 622c
624b -616
618

626b 618a
Fig.8B
620
-600
614
626a

624a
602 -622g-630 624
622b

616d
$604a

622a
-616 622c
624b
618

626b 618a
Fig.8C
U.S. Patent Dec. 3 , 2019 Sheet 15 of 19 US 10,494,091 B2

708 706
702 714
718b 720
724a
704 -700
718a
724b 722b
730
726
726b

718 716

Fig.9A
714
720
702
704 -700

Mert het

724b
722b
Bo
718c
O
726 726c
730
718 716 728

724a
722a
Fig.9B
U.S. Patent Dec. 3 , 2019 Sheet 16 of 19 US 10,494,091 B2

714 720
-700
718a
702 718b
726
704 -704a
726a
-726b

IZUNA 732

-7260
718C
718 -716

Fig.9C
702

722b -700
704
714
716 712
paraentrar mer 726a
704a 710

708
706
724b

724a 17XAK 4732

730
726
720
Fig.9D
canner 718
722a
U.S. Patent Dec. 3 , 2019 Sheet 17 of 19 US 10,494,091 B2

808 806 802

810
824a 814a
822a 812 816
-800
820a
824b
822b
-804

-818e
-818
818b 814
818a
818c
M
Fig. 10A
802
824b 822b
818

810 804
816 -800

c O

818e
818c

824a
818d
822a Fig.10B
U.S. Patent Dec. 3 , 2019 Sheet 18 of 19 US 10,494,091 B2

816
810 -800
818b
820a
818a
802
-812a
818
818e
-804a

804
-8180
818d -812
814
820b
814a
Fig . 10C

824a 818b
818a
822a

824b
822b 0 818

-818e

818d 818c
Fig.10D
U.S. Patent Dec. 3 , 2019 Sheet 19 of 19 US 10,494,091 B2

916
910
-900

916a
-912
918a
902 920
904

-918
-918e

----- -904a
-9180
-918b
918d 914 -912a

Fig.11A

910

-916
924a
918a
922a
922b -912
924b -912a
-918
-920

-918e
918d

918b -9180

Fig.11B
 US 10,494,091 B2
1 2
HUB BOLT SUPPORTED INBOARD SUMMARY
BEARING ASSEMBLIES
In a first aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a
CROSS -REFERENCE TO RELATED proprotor system for a tiltrotor aircraft having a helicopter
APPLICATIONS 5 flight mode and an airplane flight mode . The proprotor
system includes a yoke having a plurality of blade arms each
This is a continuation - in -part of co -pending application having an inboard pocket. Each of a plurality of bearing
assemblies is disposed at least partially within one of the
Ser. No. 15/648,650 filed Jul. 13, 2017, the entire contents inboard
of which is hereby incorporated by reference . pockets with each bearing assembly including a
10 bearing cage , a shear bearing and a centrifugal force bearing .
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE Each of a plurality of inboard beams is disposed at least
partially between one of the centrifugal force bearings and
The present disclosure relates, in general, to tor one of the shear bearings. Each of a plurality of proprotor
systems operable for use on tiltrotor aircraft having a blades is coupled to one of the inboard beams. Hub bolts
helicopter flight mode and an airplane flight mode and, in 15 couple each of the bearing cages to the yoke such that the
particular, to bearing assemblies that are disposed in inboard hub bolts provide centrifugal force load paths between the
pockets of a yoke that are supported by hub bolts for use in bearing assemblies and the yoke inboard of the inboard
stiff -in -plane proprotor systems. pockets.
In some embodiments , the yoke may include first and
BACKGROUND 20 second surfaces and each blade arm of the yoke may define
a plurality of hub bolt openings extending between the first
Tiltrotor aircraft typically include multiple propulsion and second surfaces inboard of the inboard pocket. In certain
assemblies that are positioned near outboard ends of a fixed embodiments, bushings may be disposed within each of the
wing . Each propulsion assembly may include an engine and hub bolt openings of the yoke . In some embodiments, each
transmission that provide torque and rotational energy to a 25 bearing cage may include first and second clamp plates each
drive shaft that rotates a proprotor system including a hub having a plurality ofhub bolt openings and a bearing retainer
assembly and a plurality of proprotor blades. Typically, at coupled to the respective centrifugal force bearing. For
least a portion of each propulsion assembly is rotatable example , each centrifugal force bearing may have an elas
relative to the fixed wing such that the proprotor blades have tomeric element that is vulcanized with the respective bear
a generally horizontal plane of rotation providing vertical lift 30 ing retainer. In certain embodiments, each bearing cage may
for takeoff , hovering and landing, much like a conventional include a bearing ring that is coupled to the respective shear
helicopter, and a generally vertical plane of rotation provid bearing . For example, each shear bearing may be bolted to
ing forward thrust for cruising in forward flight with the the respective bearing ring.
fixed wing providing lift, much like a conventional propeller In some embodiments , the centrifugal force bearings may
driven airplane . In addition , tiltrotor aircraft can be operated 35 be disposed within the respective bearing retainers . In other
in configurations between the helicopter flight mode and the embodiments, each bearing retainer may include a spindle
airplane flight mode,which may be referred to as conversion that passes through the respective centrifugal force bearing
flightmode. and the respective shear bearing. In such embodiments , the
Physical structures have natural frequencies of vibration inboard beams may be coupled to the respective shear
that can be excited by forces applied thereto as a result of 40 bearings. In certain embodiments, each blade arm , each first
operating parameters and/or environmental conditions. clamp plate and each second clamp plate may have at least
These frequencies are determined , at least in part, by the two hub bolt openings . In some embodiments, the hub bolts
materials and geometrical dimensions of the structures. In each pass through aligned hub bolt openings of respective
the case of tiltrotor aircraft , certain structures having critical first and second clamp plates and blade arms to clamp the
natural frequencies include the fuselage , the fixed wing and 45 bearing cages to the yoke such that the hub bolts provide
various elements of the propulsion assemblies. One impor centrifugal force load paths between the bearing assemblies
tant operating parameter of a tiltrotor aircraft is the angular and the yoke inboard of the inboard pockets and maintain a
velocity or revolutions per minute (RPM ) of the proprotor spaced apart relationship between the bearing cages and the
blades , which may generate excitation frequencies corre inboard pockets to prevent centrifugal force load transfer
sponding to 1/rev ( 1 per revolution ), 2 /rev , 3 /rev, etc. In 50 therebetween . In certain embodiments, the first clamp plate
general, proprotor systems for tiltrotor aircraft should be of each bearing cage has a contact relationship with the first
designed to achieve blade flap or out-of-plane frequencies surface of the yoke and the second clamp plate of each
and lead -lag or in -plane frequencies that are sufficiently bearing cage has a contact relationship with the second
distant from these excitation frequencies. For example , surface of the yoke.
certain tiltrotor aircraft have stiff -in -plane proprotor systems 55 In a second aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a
with the lead -lag frequency above 1.0 /rev, such as between proprotor system for a tiltrotor aircraft having a helicopter
1.4 /rev and 1.6 /rev . For each proprotor blade, such stiff - in flight mode and an airplane flight mode. The proprotor
plane proprotor systems have utilized three independent system includes a yoke having a plurality ofblade arms each
shear bearings in series and a centrifugal force bearing having an inboard pocket with an outboard surface and a
positioned outboard of the yoke and within the proprotor 60 plurality of hub bolt openings inboard of the inboard pocket.
blade . It has been found , however, that this design prevents Each of a plurality of bearing assemblies is disposed at least
heat dissipation from the centrifugal force bearings during partially within one of the inboard pockets with each bearing
operations. In addition , this design precludes visual inspec assembly including a bearing cage with an outboard surface,
tion of the centrifugal force bearings without blade removal. a shear bearing and a centrifugal force bearing. Each of a
Further, this design obstructs compact blade fold options 65 plurality of inboard beams is disposed at least partially
that can reduce the overall tiltrotor aircraft footprint during between one of the centrifugal force bearings and one of the
storage . shear bearings. Each of a plurality of proprotor blades is
 US 10,494,091 B2
3 4
coupled to one of the inboard beams. Hub bolts couple each FIGS. 8A - 8C are various views of a bearing assembly
of the bearing cages to the yoke at the hub bolt openings disposed in an inboard pocket of a yoke for a proprotor
such that the hub bolts provide centrifugal force load paths system in accordance with embodiments of the present
between the bearing assemblies and the yoke inboard of the disclosure ;
inboard pockets and such that there is a spaced apart 5 FIGS. 9A - 9D are various views of a bearing assembly
relationship between the outboard surfaces of the bearing disposed in an inboard pocket of a yoke for a proprotor
cages and the outboard surfaces of the inboard pockets to system in accordance with embodiments of the present
prevent centrifugal force load transfer therebetween . disclosure ;
In a third aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a FIGS . 10A - 10C are various views of a bearing assembly
tiltrotor aircraft having a helicopter flight mode and an 10 disposed in an inboard pocket of a yoke for a proprotor
system in accordance with embodiments of the present
airplane flight mode . The tiltrotor aircraft includes a fuse disclosure ;
lage, a wing extending from the fuselage and first and FIG . 10D is an isometric view of a bearing cage of a
second pylon assemblies coupled to the wing outboard of the bearing assembly for a proprotor system in accordance with
fuselage. First and second proprotor systems are operably 15
associated respectively with the first and second pylon
embodiments of the present disclosure;
assemblies. Each of the proprotor system includes a yoke FIG . 11A is a cross sectional view of a bearing assembly
disposed in an inboard pocket of a yoke for a proprotor
having a plurality of blade arms each having an inboard system in accordance with embodiments of the present
pocket . Each of a plurality ofbearing assemblies is disposed disclosure ; and
at least partially within one of the inboard pockets with each 20 FIG . 11B is an isometric view of a bearing assembly for
bearing assembly including a bearing cage, a shear bearing a proprotor system in accordance with embodiments of the
and a centrifugal force bearing . Each of a plurality of present disclosure .
inboard beams is dispos at least partially between one of
the centrifugal force bearings and one of the shear bearings . DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Each of a plurality of proprotor blades is coupled to one of 25
the inboard beams. Hub bolts couple each of the bearing While the making and using of various embodiments of
cages to the yoke such that the hub bolts provide centrifugal the present disclosure are discussed in detail below , it should
force load paths between the bearing assemblies and the be appreciated that the present disclosure provides many
yoke inboard of the inboard pockets . applicable inventive concepts, which can be embodied in a
30 wide variety of specific contexts . The specific embodiments
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS discussed herein are merely illustrative and do not delimit
the scope of the present disclosure. In the interest of clarity,
not all features of an actual implementation may be
For a more complete understanding of the features and described
advantages of the present disclosure , reference is now made 35 appreciatedin that
the present disclosure. It will of course be
in the development of any such actual
to the detailed description along with the accompanying embodiment, numerous implementation -specific decisions
figures in which corresponding numerals in the different must be made to achieve the developer's specific goals, such
figures refer to corresponding parts and in which : as compliance with system -related and business -related con
FIGS. 1A - 1B are schematic illustrations of a tiltrotor straints , which will vary from one implementation to
aircraft in an airplane flight mode and a helicopter flight 40 another. Moreover, it will be appreciated that such a devel
mode, respectively, in accordance with embodiments of the opment effort might be complex and time-consuming but
present disclosure ; would be a routine undertaking for those of ordinary skill in
FIGS . 2A -2D are various views of a proprotor system the art having the benefit of this disclosure .
having bearing assemblies disposed in inboard pockets of a In the specification , reference may be made to the spatial
yoke in accordance with embodiments of the present dis- 45 relationships between various components and to the spatial
closure ; orientation of various aspects of components as the devices
FIGS. 3A - 3D are various views of a bearing assembly are depicted in the attached drawings. However, as will be
disposed in an inboard pocket of a yoke for a proprotor recognized by those skilled in the art after a complete
system in accordance with embodiments of the present reading of the present disclosure, the devices , members ,
disclosure ; 50 apparatuses , and the like described herein may be positioned
FIG . 3E is an isometric view of a bearing assembly for a in any desired orientation . Thus, the use of terms such as
proprotor system in accordance with embodiments of the " above," " below ," " upper," " lower” or other like terms to
present disclosure; describe a spatial relationship between various components
or to describe the spatial orientation of aspects of such
FIGS. 4A -4C are various views of a bearing assembly and components
component parts thereof for a proprotor system in accor 55 relationship should be understood to describe a relative
between the components or a spatial orientation
dance with embodiments of the present disclosure ; of aspects of such components , respectively, as the device
FIGS. 5A -5D are various viewsof a bearing assembly and described herein may be oriented
component parts thereof for a proprotor system in accor As used herein , the term “ coupledin” may any desired direction.
include direct or
dance with embodiments of the present disclosure ; 60 indirect coupling by any means, including moving and /or
FIGS. 6A -6D are various views of a bearing assembly and non -moving mechanical connections .
component parts thereof for a proprotor system in accor Referring to FIGS. 1A and 1B in the drawings, a tiltrotor
dance with embodiments of the present disclosure ; aircraft is schematically illustrated and generally designated
FIGS. 7A -7D are various views of a bearing assembly 10. Aircraft 10 includes a fuselage 12 , a wing mount
disposed in an inboard pocket of a yoke for a proprotor 65 assembly 14 that is rotatable relative to fuselage 12 and a tail
system in accordance with embodiments of the present assembly 16 having control surfaces operable for horizontal
disclosure ; and/or vertical stabilization during forward flight.Awing 18
 US 10,494,091 B2
5 6
is supported by wing mount assembly 14 and rotates with drive system may serve as a backup in the event of failure
wing mount assembly 14 relative to fuselage 12 to enable of either or both of the nacelle mounted drive systems.
tiltrotor aircraft 10 to convert to a storage configuration . In general, proprotor systems for tiltrotor aircraft should
Together , fuselage 12 , tail assembly 16 and wing 18 as well be designed to achieve blade flap or out-of-plane frequencies
as their various frames, longerons, stringers, bulkheads, 5 and lead -lag or in -plane frequencies that are sufficiently
spars, ribs, skins and the like may be considered to be the distant from the excitation frequencies generated by the
airframe of tiltrotor aircraft 10 . proprotor systems corresponding to 1/rev (1 per revolution ),
Located proximate the outboard ends ofwing 18 are fixed 2 /rev , 3/rev, etc. As an example , if a proprotor system has an
nacelles 20a, 20b , each of which may house a drive system operating speed of 360 RPM , the corresponding 1/rev exci
including an engine and a fixed portion of a transmission . A 10 tation frequency is 6 Hertz (360/60 = 6 Hz). Similarly , the
pylon assembly 22a is rotatable relative to fixed nacelle 20a corresponding 2 / rev excitation frequency is 12 Hz and the
and wing 18 between a generally horizontal orientation , as corresponding 3 / rev excitation frequency is 18 Hz. It should
best seen in FIG . 1A , a generally vertical orientation , as best be understood by those having ordinary skill in the art that
seen in FIG . 1B . Pylon assembly 22a may include a tilting a change in the operating speed of a proprotor system will
portion of the transmission and a proprotor system 24a that 15 result in a proportional change in the excitation frequencies
is rotatable responsive to torque and rotational energy pro generated by the proprotor system . For tiltrotor aircraft ,
vided via the drive system . Likewise, a pylon assembly 22b operating in airplane flight mode typically requires less
is rotatable relative to fixed nacelle 20b and wing 18 thrust than operating in helicopter flight mode . One way to
between a generally vertical orientation , as best seen in FIG . reduce thrust as well as increase endurance , reduce noise
1A , a generally horizontal orientation , as best seen in FIG . 20 levels and reduce fuel consumption is to reduce the operat
1B . Pylon assembly 22b may include a tilting portion of the ing speed of the proprotor systems. For example, in heli
transmission and a proprotor system 24b that is rotatable copter flight mode, the tiltrotor aircraft may operate at 100
responsive to torque and rotational energy provided via the percent of design RPM , but in airplane flight mode , the
drive system . In the illustrated embodiment, proprotor sys tiltrotor aircraft may operate at a reduced percent of design
tems 24a , 24b each include four proprotor blades 26. It 25 RPM such as between about 80 percent and about 90 percent
should be understood by those having ordinary skill in the of design RPM . Thus, to achieve desirable rotor dynamics,
art, however, that proprotor assemblies 24a , 24b could the proprotor systems for tiltrotor aircraft should be
alternatively have a different number of proprotor blades , designed to avoid the frequencies of 1/ rev , 2/rev , 3/rev, etc.
either less than or greater than four. In addition , it should be for both helicopter flight mode and airplane flight mode
understood that the position of pylon assemblies 22a , 226 , 30 operations.
the angular velocity or revolutions per minute (RPM ) of the In the illustrated embodiment, each proprotor system 24a,
proprotor systems 24a, 24b , the pitch of proprotor blades 26 24b includes four proprotor blades 26 that are positioned
and the like are controlled by the pilot of tiltrotor aircraft 10 circumferentially about a hub assembly at ninety -degree
and /or the flight control system to selectively control the intervals. Proprotor blades 26 and the hub assembly are
direction , thrust and lift of tiltrotor aircraft 10 during flight. 35 preferably designed to have sufficient stiffness to achieve a
FIG . 1A illustrates tiltrotor aircraft 10 in a forward flight first- in -plane frequency above 1.0 /rev . In some embodi
mode or airplane flight mode, in which proprotor systems ments, the first in -plane frequency of proprotor blades 26
24a , 24b are positioned to rotate in a substantially vertical may preferably be in a range between about 1.2 / rev and
plane to provide a forward thrust while a lifting force is about 1.8 /rev and more preferably in a range between about
supplied by wing 18 such that tiltrotor aircraft 10 flies much 40 1.4 /rev and about 1.6 /rev. As another example, proprotor
like a conventional propeller driven aircraft . FIG . 1B illus blades 26 and the hub assembly may be designed to have
trates tiltrotor aircraft 10 in a vertical takeoff and landing sufficient stiffness to achieve a first-in - plane frequency
(VTOL ) flight mode or helicopter flight mode , in which above 2.0 /rev . For example , the first in -plane frequency of
proprotor systems 24a , 24b are positioned to rotate in a proprotor blades 26 may be in a range between about 2.0 /rev
substantially horizontal plane to provide a vertical lift such 45 and about 3.0 /rev . In such embodiments , the first in -plane
that tiltrotor aircraft 10 flies much like a conventional frequency of proprotor blades 26 may preferably be in a
helicopter. During operation , tiltrotor aircraft 10 may con range between about 2.2 / rev and about 2.8 /rev and more
vert from helicopter flight mode to airplane flight mode preferably in a range between about 2.4/rev and about
following vertical takeoff and may convert back to helicop 2.6 /rev.
ter flight mode from airplane flight mode for hover and 50 The desired proprotor blade stiffness and /or stiffness to
vertical landing. In addition , tiltrotor aircraft 10 can perform mass ratio of the present embodiments is achieved using, for
certain flight maneuvers with proprotor systems 24a, 245 example , carbon -based materials for the structural compo
positioned between airplane flight mode and helicopter flight nents of proprotor blades 26 such as graphite -based mate
mode , which can be referred to as conversion flight mode . rials , graphene -based materials or other carbon allotropes
Each fixed nacelle 20a , 205 may house a drive system 55 including carbon nanostructure-based materials such as
including an engine and transmission for supplying torque materials including single -walled and multi -walled carbon
and rotational energy to a respective proprotor system 24a , nanotubes . In one example , the spar and/or skin of proprotor
24b . In such embodiments, the drive systems of each fixed blades 26 are preferably monolithic structures formed using
nacelle 20a , 20b may be coupled together via one or more a broad goods and /or layered tape construction process
drive shafts located in wing 18 such that either drive system 60 having a manual or automated layup of a plurality of
can serve as a backup to the other drive system in the event composite broad goods material layers including carbon
of a failure . Alternatively or additionally , a drive system fabrics, carbon tapes and combinations thereof, positioned
including an engine and transmission may be located in over one or more mandrels having simple geometric sur
fuselage 12 for providing torque and rotational energy to faces with smooth transitions. After curing and other pro
both proprotor systems 24a, 24b via one or more drive shafts 65 cessing steps, the material layers form a high strength ,
located in wing 18. In tiltrotor aircraft having drive systems lightweight solid composite members . In this process, the
in both the nacelles and the fuselage, the fuselage mounted material thicknesses of the components can be tailoring
 US 10,494,091 B2
7 8
spanwise and chordwise to the desired stiffness and /or inboard beam 122 to rotate relative to yoke 104 about the
stiffness to mass ratio . The proprotor blade components may respective pitch change axis 130. Each proprotor blade 112
be composed of up to about 50 percent, about 60 percent, has an independent tilting degree of freedom relative to hub
about 70 percent, about 80 percent, about 90 percent ormore assembly 102 about a focal point 132 that is coincident with
of the carbon -based material or materials . 5 pitch change axis 130. For example, each proprotor blade
Referring next to FIGS. 2A - 2D in the drawings, a pro 112 is operable to tilt relative to hub assembly 102 with
protor system for tiltrotor aircraft is depicted and generally lead -lag motion , as indicated by arrow 134 in FIG . 2A , and
designated 100. In the illustrated embodiment, proprotor with flapping motion, as indicated by arrow 136 in FIG . 2D .
system 100 includes a hub assembly 102 including a yoke Referring additionally to FIGS . 3A - 3E in the drawings,
104 that is 108.
assembly coupled
Hubto assembly
amast 106102via arotates
constant
withvelocity
mast joint
106 , 10 therein are depicted various viewsof a proprotor system 200
which is coupled to a drive system including an engine and of the present disclosure. Proprotor system 200 includes a
transmission of the tiltrotor aircraft that provides torque and yoke 202 depicted as having three blade arms each including
rotational energy to proprotor system 100. Constant velocity an inboard pocket 204. As discussed herein , a yoke of the
jointassembly 108 provides a gimballing degree of freedom 15 present disclosure could have any number of blade arms
for yoke 104 relative to mast 106 enabling yoke 104 to teeter corresponding to the desired number of proprotor blades in
in any direction relative to the rotational axis 110 of pro a particular implementation including yoke designs having
protor system 100. Accordingly , hub assembly 102 may be at least three blade arms, at least four blade arms or other
referred to as a gimbaled hub . In the illustrated implemen suitable number of blade arms. Yoke 202 may be formed
tation, constant velocity joint assembly 108 is positioned 20 from compositematerials including numerousmaterial plies
above the rotational plane of yoke 104 and is mounted on composed of continuous filaments, fibers and/or sheets . The
and /or coupled to an upper surface of yoke 104 using a composite materials may include one or more of carbon,
plurality ofhub bolts , such as hub bolts 102a , 102b , that pass graphite , glass, basalt, aromatic polyamide materials or the
through hub bolt openings of constant velocity joint assem like and any combination thereof. The material plies may be
bly 108 and yoke 104 , as best seen in FIG . 2C . As illustrated , 25 in the form of fabrics such as woven fabrics, tape such as
yoke 104 includes four blade arms each of which holds and unidirectional tape and the like. The plies may be joined
supports a proprotor blade 112. Each proprotor blade 112 together with a resin such as a polymeric matrix including
includes a spar 114 that extends spanwise toward the tip of thermoplastic or thermosetting resin or any suitable resin
proprotor blade 112. Spars 114 are preferably the main system such as epoxies, polyimides , polyamides , bismaleim
structural memberscentrifugal
carry the primary of proprotor blades loads
and bending 112 ofdesigned
proprotorto 30 ides, polyesters, vinyl esters, phenolics, polyetheretherke
tones (PEEK ), polyetherketones (PEK ), polyphenylene sul
blades 112. Spars 114 may have a root-to -tip twist on the fides (PPS) and the like . After curing, yoke 202 may require
order of about 30 degrees to about 40 degrees or other a variety of finishing steps including material removal
suitable root-to114-tiphastwist
Each spar . section 116 that couples of each 35 processes such as machining operations to shape the surface
a root
proprotor blade 112 with yoke 104 via an outboard shear of yoke 202 and to form inboard pockets 204 aswell as other
openings, such as hub bolt openings, in yoke 202 .
bearing 118 and an inboard bearing assembly 120. Each
shear bearing assembly 118 is coupled to an outboard end of A bearing assembly 206 is disposed in each of the inboard
yoke 104 with a plurality of connecting members such as pockets 204 of yoke 202 , for clarity of illustration , only one
bolts, pins or the like. Likewise, each bearing assembly 120 40 such bearing assembly 206 is shown in FIGS. 3A -3E .
is coupled to an inboard station of yoke 104 with a plurality Bearing assembly 206 includes a centrifugal force bearing
of connecting members such as bolts, including the hub 208 , a shear bearing 210 and an inboard beam 212. In the
bolts , pins or the like . Each bearing assembly 120 includes illustrated embodiment, centrifugal force bearing 208
a rotatably mounted inboard beam 122 having upper and includes an inboard member 208a having a convex spherical
lower arms 122a , 122b . As illustrated , each spar 114 is 45 outboard surface and an outboard member depicted as
coupled to a respective inboard beam 122 at upper and lower integral shoe 208b having a concave spherical inboard
arms 122a , 122b with a plurality of connecting members surface . Disposed between inboard member 208a and out
such as bolts, pins or the like. In addition , each spar 114 is board member 208b is a bearing element 208c that includes
coupled to a respective shear bearing assembly 118 via a a series of spherical elastomeric layers separated by inelastic
suitable connection (not visible ). 50 shims. The connections within bearing element 208c and
Each proprotor blade 112 has a centrifugal force retention between bearing element 208c and inboard member 208a
load path through bearing assembly 120 to yoke 104. In the and outboard member 208b are permanent and may be made
illustrated embodiment, each spar 114 includes an integral by vulcanizing the elastomeric material of bearing element
pitch horn 124 on the leading edge of spar 114 that is 208c to the adjacent surfaces or by bonded , adhered or
coupled to a leading edge pitch link 126 of a pitch control 55 otherwise secured the elastomeric material in a non - remov
assembly 128 depicted as the rotating portion of a rise and able manner to these surfaces . The durometer and thickness
fall swash plate operable to collectively and cyclically of the materials as well as the stiffness , softness and /or
control the pitch of proprotor blades 112. In other embodi spring rate of centrifugal force bearing 208 may be tailored
ments, the pitch horns may be independent components to achieve the desired operational modes based upon the
coupled to the spars, the pitch horns may be trailing edge 60 loads and motions expected in the particular application . In
pitch horns and/or the pitch links may be trailing edge pitch operation , each centrifugal force bearing 208 is operable to
links. Each proprotor blade 112 has an independent pitch provide a centrifugal force retention load path from a
change degree of freedom relative to hub assembly 102 proprotor blade 112 to yoke 202. In the illustrated embodi
about a pitch change axis 130. The pitch change of each ment, centrifugal force bearing 208 includes a lower clamp
proprotor blade 112 is controlled responsive to changes in 65 plate 208d that is bolted , pinned or otherwise coupled to a
position of pitch links 126 and pitch control assembly 128 . lower surface of outboard member 208b once centrifugal
Rotation of each proprotor blade 112 causes the respective force bearing 208 is disposed in an inboard pocket 204 .
 US 10,494,091 B2
9 10
Centrifugal force bearing 208 is coupled to yoke 202 out clamp plate 208d may be coupled to outboard member 2086
board of inboard pocket 204 using bolts 224 or other suitable by bolting or other suitable technique . Outboard member
technique. 208b may now be coupled to yoke 202 by bolting or other
In the illustrated embodiment, shear bearing 210 includes suitable technique . In addition , clamp plates 214a , 214b are
a radially inwardly disposed journal bearing 210a and a 5 coupled together and clamp plates 214a , 214b are coupled to
radially outwardly disposed spherical bearing 210b . Journal yoke 202 with hub bolts 216a, 216b that also couple the
bearing 210a includes a series of cylindrical elastomeric constant velocity joint assembly to yoke 202 ( see for
layers separated by inelastic shims. Spherical bearing 2106 example constant velocity joint assembly 108 of FIG . 2C ).
includes a series of spherical elastomeric layers separated by These connections secure bearing assembly 206 in inboard
inelastic shims. The connections within journal bearing 10 pocket 204 of yoke 202 .
210a and spherical bearing 210b are permanent and may be As discussed herein , a proprotor blade is coupled to upper
made by vulcanizing the elastomeric material directly on and lower arms 212a , 212b of inboard beam 212 by bolting
adjacent surfaces or by bonded , adhered or otherwise or other suitable technique . As the proprotor blades engage
secured the elastomeric material in a non -removable manner in collective and /or cyclic blade pitch operations , inboard
to these surfaces . The durometer and thickness of the 15 beam 212 must rotate therewith about pitch changes axis
materials as well as the stiffness, softness and /or spring rate 220. During these rotary operations, inboard beam 212
of journal bearing 210a and spherical bearing 210b may be causes inboard member 208a of centrifugal force bearing
tailored to achieve the desired operationalmodes based upon 208 to rotate relative to outboard member 208b due to the
the loads and motions expected in the particular application . anti- rotation connection between inboard beam 212 and
In other embodiments, shear bearing 210 could be a non 20 inboard member 208a as well as the fixed connection
elastomer bearing or could include a non elastomer journal between outboard member 208b and yoke 202. Also , during
bearing and /or a non elastomer spherical incorporating , for these rotary operations, inboard beam 212 causes rotation
example, one or more metal bearings. In the illustrated within journal bearing 210a and /or between journal bearing
embodiment, shear bearing 210 includes a metal bearing 210a and spherical bearing 210b due to the anti -rotation
ring 214a that is preferably permanently coupled to spheri- 25 connection between inboard beam 212 and shear bearing
cal bearing 210b by vulcanizing, bonding, adhering or 210 as well as the fixed connection between shear bearing
otherwise securing the elastomeric material of spherical 210 and yoke 202 created by clamp plates 214a , 214b . Thus ,
bearing 210b to the inner surface ofbearing ring 214a . In the a proprotor blade coupled to bearing assembly 206 has a
illustrated embodiment, bearing ring 214a includes a pair of pitch change degree of freedom about pitch change axis 220 .
oppositely disposed flanges 214 , 214d forming an upper 30 Centrifugal force bearing 208 is positioned outboard of
clamp plate. Shear bearing 210 is coupled to yoke 202 using shear bearing 210 and provides a centrifugal force retention
hub bolts 216a , 216b that pass through the hub bolt openings path between a proprotor blade and yoke 202. As the
in bearing ring 214a , yoke 202 and lower clamp plate 214b . proprotor blades engage in blade flap or out-of-plane move
As best seen in FIG . 3C , hub bolts 216a , 216b have been ments and lead -lag or in -plane movements, spherical bear
foreshortened for convenience of illustration as hub bolts 35 ing 210b enables inboard beam 212 to tilt relative to yoke
216a , 216b would also coupled the constant velocity joint to 202. In the illustrated embodiment, inboard beam 212 is
yoke 202 as discussed herein . In the illustrated embodiment, operable to tilt relative to a focal point 222 associated with
bushings 202a , 202b , such asmetal bushings, are positioned the spherical elements of spherical bearing 2106 , which is
within the hub bolt openings of yoke 202. Bushings 202a , preferably coincident with pitch change axis 220. Thus , a
202b may be bonded or otherwise secured within the hub 40 proprotor blade coupled to bearing assembly 206 has a
bolt openings of yoke 202. tilting degree of freedom about focal point 222 .
In the illustrated embodiment, inboard beam 212 includes Use of proprotor systems having the inboard bearing
upper and lower arms 212a , 212b . Inboard beam 212 assemblies of the present disclosure reduces the bearing
receives centrifugal force bearing 208 in an opening 2120 count compared to conventional proprotor systems. The
such that centrifugal force bearing 208 is housed within 45 inboard bearing assemblies of the present disclosure also
inboard beam 212.Centrifugal force bearing 208 includes an dissipate heat faster than conventional centrifugal force
anti -rotation feature depicted as a boss 208e extending bearings that are disposed outboard of the yoke and within
radially inwardly , relative to yoke 202 , from inboard mem the proprotor blades. In addition , locating the bearing assem
ber 208a . Boss 208e is received within an anti-rotation blies of the present disclosure in inboard stations enables
feature depicted as cavity 212d of inboard beam 212 that 50 visual inspection of the bearing assemblies without blade
extends radially inwardly , relative to yoke 202 , to couple removal. Further, the inboard positioning of the bearing
centrifugal force bearing 208 to inboard beam 212 and assemblies of the present disclosure allows for compact
prevent relative rotation therebetween . An inboard extension blade fold options that reduce the tiltrotor aircraft footprint
212e of inboard beam 212 is received in an opening 210c of during storage .
shear bearing 210. In addition , an anti-rotation feature 55 Referring to FIGS. 4A -4C , additional features of bearing
depicted as a boss 212f of inboard extension 212e is received assembly 206 will be described . The coupling between
within an anti -rotation feature 210d of shear bearing 210 to centrifugal force bearing 208 and inboard beam 212 pref
couple shear bearing 210 to inboard beam 212 and prevent erably serves three important functions including providing
relative rotation therebetween . In the illustrated embodi a centrifugal force load path function , a lateral movement
ment, centrifugal force bearing 208 and shear bearing 210 60 constraint function and an anti-rotation function . During
are coupled together with a bolt 218a and washer 218b . rotary operations of an aircraft using a proprotor system of
As best seen in FIG . 3E , to install a bearing assembly 206 the present disclosure , the centrifugal force load generated
in an inboard pocket 204 of yoke 202, clamp plate 214b and by each proprotor blade is transferred to the yoke by a
lower clamp plate 208d of centrifugal force bearing 208 are bearing assembly 206. Within each bearing assembly 206 ,
removed such that the remainder of bearing assembly 206 65 the centrifugal force load path includes mating surfaces
may be lowered into an inboard pocket 204. Once bearing 2087, 208g of centrifugal force bearing 208 and mating
assembly 206 is disposed in an inboard pocket 204 lower surfaces 212g , 212h of inboard beam 212. In the illustrated
 US 10,494,091 B2
11 12
embodiment, mating surfaces 2088, 208g are generally pla transferred to the yoke by a bearing assembly 306. Within
nar mating surfaces with a radial step therebetween . Like each bearing assembly 306 , the centrifugal force load path
wise , mating surfaces 212g, 212h are generally planar includes mating surfaces 308f, 308g of centrifugal force
mating surfaces with a radial step therebetween . As illus bearing 308 and mating surfaces 312g , 312h of inboard
trated , mating surface 208f of centrifugal force bearing 208 5 beam 312. In the illustrated embodiment, mating surfaces
has a contact relationship with corresponding mating surface 308f, 308g are generally planar mating surfaces with a radial
212g of inboard beam 212. Similarly, mating surface 208g step therebetween . Likewise , mating surfaces 312g , 312h
of centrifugal force bearing 208 has a contact relationship are generally planar mating surfaces with a radial step
with corresponding mating surface 212h of inboard beam therebetween . As illustrated , mating surface 308f of cen
212. In other embodiments, certain of the mating surfaces or 10 trifugal force bearing 308 has a contact relationship with
portions thereof could have a spaced apart relationship with corresponding mating surface 312g of inboard beam 312 .
a corresponding mating surface. Thus, during rotary opera Similarly, mating
tions of an aircraft using a proprotor system of the present 308 has a contactsurface 308g of centrifugal force bearing
relationship with corresponding mating
disclosure , the centrifugal force load path includes mating
surfaces 208f, 208g of centrifugal force bearing 208 and 15 surface 312h of inboard beam 312. Thus, during rotary
operations of an aircraft using a proprotor system of the
mating surfaces 212g, 212h of inboard beam 212 .
In addition to the centrifugal forces that are generally in present disclosure , the centrifugal force load path includes
the radially outward direction relative to yoke 202 , the mating surfaces 308f, 308g of centrifugal force bearing 308
components of bearing assembly 206 also experience lateral and mating surfaces 312g , 312h of inboard beam 312 .
forces associated with , for example , lead - lag and /or flapping 20 In addition to the centrifugal forces that are generally in
motions of a proprotor blade. As used herein , the term lateral the radially outward direction relative to yoke 202 , the
force includes forces that are generally normal to the radial components of bearing assembly 306 also experience lateral
direction of the yoke and /or normal to pitch change axis 220 . forces associated with , for example , lead -lag and /or flapping
Such lateral forces may tend to urge centrifugal force motions of a proprotor blade. Such lateral forces may tend
bearing 208 out of concentricity with inboard beam 212. In 25 to urge centrifugal force bearing 308 out of concentricity
the illustrated embodiment, centrifugal force bearing 208 with inboard beam 312. In the illustrated embodiment,
includes a lateral movement constraint feature depicted as centrifugal force bearing 308 includes a lateral movement
boss 208e that extends radially inwardly . Boss 208e is constraint feature depicted as boss 308e that extends radially
operably associated with and received within a lateralmove inwardly . Boss 308e is operably associated with and
ment constraint feature depicted as cavity 212d of inboard 30 received within a lateral movement constraint feature
beam 212 that extends radially inwardly. As illustrated , boss depicted as cavity 312d of inboard beam 312 that extends
208e and cavity 212d are each non -cylindrical features radially inwardly. As illustrated , boss 308e and cavity 312d
depicted as multisided geometric prism features in the form are each cylindrical features. Preferably, boss 308e and
of four- sided geometric prism features. Preferably, boss cavity 312d have a close fitting relationship that prevents
208e and cavity 212d have a close fitting relationship that 35 and /or substantially prevents relative lateral movement
prevents and /or substantially prevents relative lateralmove between centrifugal force bearing 308 and inboard beam 312
ment between centrifugal force bearing 208 and inboard during rotary operations .
beam 212 during rotary operations . In addition to the centrifugal forces and lateral forces, the
In addition to the centrifugal forces and lateral forces, the components of bearing assembly 306 also experience tor
components of bearing assembly 206 also experience tor- 40 sional forces associated with , for example, pitch change
sional forces associated with , for example , pitch change operations of a proprotor blade . Such torsional forces may
operations of a proprotor blade. Such torsional forces may tend to urge centrifugal force bearing 308 to rotate relative
tend to urge centrifugal force bearing 208 to rotate relative to inboard beam 312. In the illustrated embodiment, cen
to inboard beam 212. In the illustrated embodiment, cen trifugal force bearing 308 includes an anti -rotation feature
trifugal force bearing 208 includes an anti- rotation feature 45 depicted as a plurality of sockets 308h that extend radially
depicted as boss 208e that extends radially inwardly. Boss outwardly . Sockets 308h correspond with an anti-rotation
208e corresponds with and is received within an anti feature depicted as sockets 312i of inboard beam 312 that
rotation feature depicted as cavity 212d of inboard beam 212 extend radially inwardly . As best seen in FIG . 5A , a plurality
that extends radially inwardly. As illustrated , boss 208e and of pins 320 extend into corresponding sockets 308h of
cavity 212d are each non -cylindrical features depicted as 50 centrifugal force bearing 308 and sockets 312i of inboard
multisided geometric prism features in the form of four beam 312 to prevent and /or substantially prevent relative
sided geometric prism features. Preferably , boss 208e and rotation between centrifugal force bearing 308 and inboard
cavity 212d have a close fitting relationship that prevents beam 312 during rotary operations. In the illustrated
and /or substantially prevents relative rotation between cen embodiment, the lateral movementconstraint feature and the
trifugal force bearing 208 and inboard beam 212 during 55 anti-rotation feature of centrifugal force bearing 308 are
rotary operations. In the illustrated embodiment, the lateral independent of one another. Even though centrifugal force
movement constraint feature and the anti- rotation feature of bearing 308 and inboard beam 312 are depicted as having a
centrifugal force bearing 208 are integral to one another. particular number of anti-rotation sockets 308h , 312i, in a
Referring to FIGS. 5A -5D , a bearing assembly for a particular arrangement, it should be understood by those
proprotor system is generally designated 306. As stated 60 having ordinary skill in the art that the centrifugal force
herein , the coupling between centrifugal force bearing 308 bearings and inboard beams of the present disclosure could
and inboard beam 312 preferably serves three important have any number of anti-rotation sockets both greater than
functions including providing a centrifugal force load path or less than four that are arranged in any desired orientation
function , a lateral movement constraint function and an including having uniform or nonuniform circumferential
anti-rotation function . During rotary operations of an aircraft 65 orientations,uniform or non -uniform socket depths, uniform
using a proprotor system of the present disclosure , the or non -uniform socket diameters and/or uniform or non
centrifugal force load generated by each proprotor blade is uniform distances from the pitch change axis .
 US 10,494,091 B2
13 14
Referring to FIGS. 6A -6D , a bearing assembly for a Referring next to FIGS. 7A -7D in the drawings, therein
proprotor system is generally designated 406. As stated are depicted various views of a proprotor system 500 of the
herein , the coupling between a centrifugal force bearing 408 present disclosure . Proprotor system 500 includes a yoke
and an inboard beam 412 preferably serves three important 502 depicted as having three blade arms each including an
functions including providing a centrifugal force load path 5 inboard pocket 504 and a pair ofhub bolt openings 506 each
function , a lateral movement constraint function and an having a bushing 508 secured therein . A bearing assembly
anti-rotation function . During rotary operations of an aircraft 510 is disposed in each of the inboard pockets 504 of yoke
using a proprotor system of the present disclosure, the 502, for clarity of illustration , only one such bearing assem
centrifugal force load generated by each proprotor blade is 10 bly 510 is shown in FIGS. 7A -7D . Bearing assembly 510
transferred to the yoke by a bearing assembly 406 . Within includes a centrifugal force bearing 512 , a shear bearing 514
each bearing assembly 406 , the centrifugal force load path and an inboard beam 516. As best seen in FIG . 7C , cen
includes mating surfaces 408f, 408g of centrifugal force trifugal force bearing 512 has is a bearing element 512a , an
bearing 408 and mating surfaces 412g , 412h of inboard integral shoe 512b that includes an upper clamp plate 512C
beam 412. In the illustrated embodiment, mating surface 15 and an independent lower clamp plate 512d . Preferably , the
408f is a generally conical mating surface and mating connection between bearing element 512a and integral shoe
surface 408g is a generally planarmating surface. Likewise , 512b is permanent and may be made by vulcanizing the
mating surface 412g is a generally conical mating surface elastomeric materialofbearing element 512a to the adjacent
and mating surface 412h is a generally planar mating surface of integral shoe 512b or by bonded , adhered or
surface. As illustrated , mating surface 408f of centrifugal 20 otherwise secured the elastomeric material in a non -remov
force bearing 408 has a contact relationship with corre able manner to integral shoe 512b . Lower clamp plate 512d
sponding mating surface 412g of inboard beam 412. As best is independent of integral shoe 512b to enable installation
seen in FIG . 6A , mating surface 408g of centrifugal force and removal of bearing assembly 510 relative to inboard
bearing 408 has a spaced apart relationship with correspond pocket 504 of yoke 502. In the installed orientation , lower
ing mating surface 412h of inboard beam 412. Thus, during 25 clamp plate 512d is coupled to upper clamp plate 512c by
rotary operations of an aircraft using a proprotor system of one or more bolts 518 which also couple centrifugal force
the present disclosure , the centrifugal force load path bearing 512 to yoke 502 outboard of inboard pocket 504 .
includes mating surface 408f of centrifugal force bearing In the illustrated embodiment, shear bearing 514 includes
408 and mating surface 412g of inboard beam 412 . a metal bearing ring 514a that is preferably permanently
In addition to the centrifugal forces that are generally in 30 coupled to an elastomer element of shear bearing 514 by
the radially outward direction relative to yoke 202 , the vulcanizing , bonding, adhering or otherwise securing the
components ofbearing assembly 406 also experience lateral elastomeric material to the inner surface of bearing ring
forces associated with , for example , lead -lag and/or flapping 514a. In the illustrated embodiment, bearing ring 514a
motions of a proprotor blade . Such lateral forces may tend includes a pair of oppositely disposed flanges 514b , 5140
to urge centrifugal force bearing 408 out of concentricity 35 forming an upper clamp plate . Shear bearing 514 is selec
with inboard beam 412. In the illustrated embodiment, tively coupled to yoke 502 using a latch assembly 516. In the
centrifugal force bearing 408 includes a lateral movement illustrated embodiment, latch assembly 516 includes a lower
constraint feature depicted as mating surface 408f that clamp plate 516a and a pair of cam latches 5166, 516C .
extends radially inwardly . Mating surface 408f is operably Lower clamp plate 516a is coupled to cam latches 516b ,
associated with and received within a lateral movement 40 516c respectively by hub bolts 518a , 518b . As described
constraint feature depicted as mating surface 412g of above , hub bolts 518a , 518b have been foreshortened for
inboard beam 412 that extends radially inwardly . As illus convenience of illustration as hub bolts 518a , 518b would
trated ,mating surface 408f and mating surface 412g are each also coupled the constant velocity joint to yoke 502. It is
conical features that provide a self -aligning interface noted that one or more of the components of bearing
between centrifugal force bearing 408 and inboard beam 412 45 assembly 510 may need inspection , maintenance and /or
that prevents and /or substantially prevents relative lateral replacement on a periodic basis . The procedure for such
movement between centrifugal force bearing 408 and operations may be complicated by the need to remove the
inboard beam 412 during rotary operations. hub bolts and the other associated hub components , such as
In addition to the centrifugal forces and lateral forces, the the constant velocity joint, from the yoke 502 to simply
components of bearing assembly 406 also experience tor- 50 inspection or replace a single bearing assembly 510. In the
sional forces associated with , for example , pitch change present embodiment, however, bearing assemblies 510 have
operations of a proprotor blade. Such torsional forces may improved access for installation , removal and inspections
tend to urge centrifugal force bearing 408 to rotate relative due to the operation of latch assemblies 516 .
to inboard beam 412. In the illustrated embodiment, cen In the illustrated embodiment, latch assembly 516 has an
trifugal force bearing 408 includes an anti-rotation feature 55 engaged position depicted in FIGS. 7A , 7C , 7D and a
depicted as a plurality of sockets 408h that extend radially disengaged position depicted in FIG . 7B .More specifically,
outwardly . Sockets 408h correspond with an anti - rotation cam latch 516b is rotatable relative to yoke 502 about hub
feature depicted as sockets 412i of inboard beam 412 that bolt 518a between the engaged and disengaged positions , as
extend radially inwardly. As best seen in FIG .6A , a plurality seen in the comparison between FIGS. 7A and 7B . Likewise,
of pins 420 extend into corresponding sockets 408h of 60 cam latch 516c is rotatable relative to yoke 502 about hub
centrifugal force bearing 408 and sockets 412i of inboard bolt 5186 between the engaged and disengaged positions,
beam 412 to prevent and /or substantially prevent relative also seen in the comparison between FIGS. 7A and 7B . In
rotation between centrifugal force bearing 408 and inboard the engaged position , bearing bolts 520a , 520b may pass
beam 412 during rotary operations. In the illustrated through aligned bearing bolt openings of respective cam
embodiment, the lateral movement constraint feature and the 65 latches 516b , 516c, respective flanges 5145, 514c and lower
anti-rotation feature of centrifugal force bearing 408 are clamp plate 516a to couple bearing assembly 510 to yoke
independent of one another. 502 with flanges 514b , 514c having a contact relationship
 US 10,494,091 B2
15 16
with an upper surface of yoke 504 and lower clamp plate The coupling between independentshoe 622 and centrifu
516a having a contact relationship with a lower surface of gal force bearing 616 preferably serves three important
yoke 504. functions including providing a centrifugal force load path
To gain access to bearing assembly 510 , bearing bolts function , a lateral movement constraint function and an
520a , 520b may be removed from bearing assembly 510 5 anti -rotation function . During rotary operations of an aircraft
such that cam latches 516b , 516c may be rotated relative to using proprotor system 600 , the centrifugal force load gen
yoke 502 about hub bolts 518a , 518b from the engaged erated by each proprotor blade is transferred to yoke 620 by
position of FIG . 7A to the disengaged position of FIG . 7B bearing assembly 614. Within each bearing assembly 614 ,
enabling inspection , installation and removal of bearing the centrifugal force load path includes mating surfaces
assembly 510 relative to inboard pocket 504 without 10 616a , 616b of centrifugal force bearing 616 and mating
removal of hub bolts 518a , 518b , thereby alleviating the surfaces 622d , 622e of independent shoe 622. In the illus
complications associated therewith . Thus, in both the trated embodiment, mating surface 616a is a generally
engaged and disengaged positions of latch assembly 516 , conical mating surface and mating surface 616b is a gener
hub bolts 518a , 518b remain in place passing through ally planar mating surface. Likewise, mating surface 622d is
aligned hub bolt openings of cam latches 516b , 516c , yoke 15 a generally conicalmating surface and mating surface 622e
502 and clamp plate 516a . In certain implementations, it is a generally planar mating surface. As illustrated , mating
may be desirable to loosen hub bolts 518a , 518b when surface 616a of centrifugal force bearing 616 has a contact
operating of cam latches 516b , 516c between the engaged relationship with corresponding mating surface 622d of
and disengaged positions. independent shoe 622. As best seen in FIG . 8B , mating
Referring next to FIGS. 8A -8C in the drawings, therein 20 surface 616b of centrifugal force bearing 616 has a spaced
are depicted various views of a proprotor system 600 of the apart relationship with corresponding mating surface 622e
present disclosure . Proprotor system 600 includes a yoke of independent shoe 622. Thus, during rotary operations of
602 depicted as having three blade arms each including an an aircraft using proprotor system 600 , the centrifugal force
inboard pocket 604 having a load transfer surface 604a . load path includes mating surface 616a of centrifugal force
Load transfer surface 604a has an arcuate profile such as a 25 bearing 616 and mating surface 622d of independent shoe
circular arc profile or an elliptical arc profile. In addition , 622 .
each blade arm includes a pair ofhub bolt openings 606 each In addition to the centrifugal forces that are generally in
having a bushing 608 secured therein and a pair of shoe bolt the radially outward direction relative to yoke 602 , the
openings 610 each having a bushing 612 secured therein . A components of bearing assembly 614 also experience lateral
bearing assembly 614 is disposed in each of the inboard 30 forces associated with , for example , lead - lag and /or flapping
pockets 604 of yoke 602 , for clarity of illustration , only one motions of a proprotor blade. Such lateral forces may tend
such bearing assembly 614 is shown in FIGS. 8A -8C . to urge centrifugal force bearing 616 out of concentricity
Bearing assembly 614 includes a centrifugal force bearing with independent shoe 622. In the illustrated embodiment,
616 , a shear bearing 618 , an inboard beam 620 and an centrifugal force bearing 616 includes a lateral movement
independent shoe 622. In the illustrated embodiment, shear 35 constraint feature depicted as boss 616c that extends radially
bearing 618 includes a metal bearing ring 618a that is outwardly. Boss 616c is operably associated with and
preferably permanently coupled to an elastomer element of received within a lateral movement constraint feature
shear bearing 618 by vulcanizing, bonding, adhering or depicted as cavity 622fof independent shoe 622 that extends
otherwise securing the elastomeric material to the inner radially outwardly. As illustrated , boss 616c and cavity 622f
surface of bearing ring 618a . In the illustrated embodiment, 40 are each non -cylindrical features depicted as multisided
bearing ring 618a is coupled to an upper clamp plate 624a geometric prism features in the form of four-sided geometric
and a lower clamp plate 624b using screws 626a , 626b. prism features. Preferably, boss 616c and cavity 622fhave a
Upper and lower clamp plates 624a , 624b are coupled to close fitting relationship that prevents and/or substantially
yoke 602 by hub bolts 628a , 6286. As described above , hub prevents relative lateral movement between centrifugal
bolts 628a , 6286 have been foreshortened for convenience 45 force bearing 616 and independent shoe 622 during rotary
of illustration as hub bolts 628a , 628b would also coupled operations.
the constant velocity joint to yoke 602. In addition to the centrifugal forces and lateral forces, the
As best seen in FIG . 8A , independent shoe 622 includes components of bearing assembly 614 also experience tor
a load transfer surface 622a , an upper clamp plate 622b and sional forces associated with , for example , pitch change
a lower clamp plate 622c . Load transfer surface 622a has an 50 operations of a proprotor blade . Such torsional forces may
arcuate profile such as a circular arc profile or an elliptical tend to urge centrifugal force bearing 616 to rotate relative
arc profile. The arcuate profile of load transfer surface 622a to independent shoe 622. In the illustrated embodiment,
of independent shoe 622 matches the arcuate profile of load centrifugal force bearing 616 includes an anti -rotation fea
transfer surface 604a of inboard pocket 604 to form a ture depicted as boss 616c that extends radially outwardly.
centrifugal force load path therebetween . Load transfer 55 Boss 616c corresponds with and is received within an
surface 622a of independent shoe 622 may be bonded , anti - rotation feature depicted as cavity 622f of independent
adhered or otherwise secured to load transfer surface 604a shoe 622 that extends radially outwardly. As illustrated , boss
of inboard pocket 604. Alternatively or additionally, one or 616c and cavity 622f are each non -cylindrical features
more shoe bolts 624 may pass through aligned shoe bolt depicted as multisided geometric prism features in the form
openings of upper clamp plate 622b, yoke 602 and lower 60 of four-sided geometric prism features. Preferably, boss
clamp plate 622c to form a clamped relationship between 616c and cavity 622f have a close fitting relationship that
independent shoe 622 and yoke 602 outboard of inboard prevents and / or substantially prevents relative rotation
pocket 604. The bonded relationship and /or the clamped between centrifugal force bearing 616 and independent shoe
relationship between independent shoe 622 and yoke 602 622 during rotary operations .
prevents relative movement therebetween to maintain the 65 An alternate configuration of the coupling between inde
contact relationship and centrifugal force load path therebe pendent shoe 622 and centrifugal force bearing 616 is
tween . depicted in FIG . 8C . In this configuration , the centrifugal
 US 10,494,091 B2
17
force load path includes generally planar mating surface
616d of centrifugal force bearing 616 and generally planar
mating surface 622g of independent shoe 622. A plurality of
pins depicted as four screws 630 (only two being visible in
the drawing ) extend between independent shoe 622 and
centrifugal force bearing 616 to prevent and /or substantially
prevents relative lateral movement and relative rotation
between centrifugal force bearing 616 and independent shoe
622.
Referring next to FIGS. 9A -9D in the drawings, therein
are depicted various views of a proprotor system 700 of the
present disclosure . Proprotor system 700 includes a yoke
702 depicted as having three blade arms each including an
inboard pocket 704 with an outboard surface 704a , a pair of
hub bolt openings 706 each having a bushing 708 secured
therein and four shoe bolt openings 710 each having a
bushing 712 secured therein . A bearing assembly 714 is
disposed in each of the inboard pockets 704 of yoke 702 , for
clarity of illustration, only one such bearing assembly 714 is
shown in FIGS. 9A -9D . Bearing assembly 714 includes a
centrifugal force bearing 716 , a shear bearing 718 and an
inboard beam 720. In the illustrated embodiment, shear
bearing 718 includes a metal bearing ring 718a that is
preferably permanently coupled to an elastomer element of
shear bearing 718 by vulcanizing , bonding , adhering or
otherwise securing the elastomeric material to the inner
surface of bearing ring 718a . Bearing ring 718a includes an
upper clamp plate 718b that is coupled to a lower clamp
plate 718c by bearing bolts 722a, 722b . Upper and lower
clamp plates 7186 , 718c are coupled to yoke 702 by hub
bolts 724a , 724b. As described above , hub bolts 724a , 724b
have been foreshortened for convenience of illustration as
hub bolts 724 , 724b would also coupled the constant
velocity joint to yoke 702. 35
Centrifugal force bearing 716 has an integral shoe 726
having an outboard surface 726a and an upper clamp plate
726b. An independent lower clamp plate 726c is coupled to
integral shoe 726 by bolts 728 or other suitable connectors .
In the illustrated embodiment, a plurality of shoe bolts 730 40
pass through aligned shoe bolt openings of upper clamp
plate 726b, yoke 702 and lower clamp plate 726c to form a
clamped relationship between integral shoe 726 and yoke
702 outboard of inboard pocket 704 wherein upper clamp
plate 726b may have a contact relationship with an upper 45
surface of yoke 702 and lower clamp plate 726c may have
a contact relationship with a lower surface of yoke 702 .
Importantly , shoe bolt openings 710 are positioned and sized
such that outboard surface 726a of integral shoe 726 and
outboard surface 704a of inboard pocket 704 have a space 50
apart relationship , as indicated by arrows 732, when upper
and lower clamp plate 726b , 726c have the clamped rela
tionship with yoke 702. The space apart relationship pre
vents centrifugal force load transfer between outboard sur
face 726a of integral shoe 726 and outboard surface 704a of 55 includes a cavity 916a that is preferably permanently
inboard pocket 704. Instead, shoe bolts 730 provide cen
trifugal force load paths between bearing assembly 714 and
yoke 702. Even though a particular number ofshoe bolts 730
have been depicted and described as maintaining the space
apart relationship between outboard surface 726a of integral 60
shoe 726 and outboard surface 704a of inboard pocket 704
and as providing the centrifugal force load paths between
bearing assembly 714 and yoke 702 , it should be understood
by those having ordinary skill in the art that the number of
shoe bolts could be either less than or greater than four 65
including two shoe bolts , three shoe bolts , five shoe bolts or
more .
18
Referring next to FIGS. 10A - 10D in the drawings, therein
are depicted various views of a proprotor system 800 of the
present disclosure . Proprotor system 800 includes a yoke
802 depicted as having three blade arms each including an
5 inboard pocket 804 and a pair of hub bolt openings 806
inboard of inboard pocket 804 each having a bushing 808
secured therein . A bearing assembly 810 is disposed in each
of the inboard pockets 804 of yoke 802, for clarity of
illustration , only one such bearing assembly 810 is shown in
10 gal
FIGSforce
. 10Abearing
-10C . 812
Bearing assembly
, a shear bearing810814includes a centrifu
, an inboard beam
816 and a bearing cage 818. In the illustrated embodiment,
shear bearing 814 includes an integralbearing ring 814a that
is preferably permanently coupled to an elastomer element
15 of shear bearing 814 by vulcanizing , bonding , adhering or
otherwise securing the elastomeric material to the inner
surface of integral bearing ring 814a .
In the illustrated embodiment, bearing cage 818 includes
upper clamp plate 818a , bearing ring 818b , bearing retainer
20 818c and lower clamp plate 818d . Integral bearing ring 814a
of shear bearing 814 is coupled to bearing ring 818b of
bearing cage 818 by a pair of bolts 820a , 820b . An inboard
surface of bearing retainer 818c is preferably permanently
coupled to an elastomer bearing element 812a of centrifugal
25 force bearing 812 by vulcanizing, bonding, adhering or
otherwise securing the elastomeric material to bearing
retainer 818c. In the illustrated embodiment, centrifugal
force bearing 812 is disposed within bearing retainer 818C .
Upper clamp plate 818a and a lower clamp plate 818d are
30 coupled together by bearing bolts 8220 , 822b . Upper and
lower clamp plates 818a , 818d are coupled to yoke 802 by
hub bolts 824a , 824b. As described above, hub bolts 824a ,
824b have been foreshortened for convenience of illustration
as hub bolts 824a , 824b would also coupled the constant
velocity joint to yoke 802. Importantly , an outboard surface
818e ofbearing retainer 818c has a space apart relationship
with an outboard surface 804a of inboard pocket 804 when
upper and lower clamp plate 818a , 818d have the clamped
relationship with yoke 802. The space apart relationship
prevents centrifugal force load transfer between outboard
surface 818e of bearing retainer 818c and outboard surface
804a of inboard pocket 804. Instead , hub bolts 824a , 824b
provide centrifugal force load paths between bearing assem
bly 810 and yoke 802 .
Referring next to FIGS. 11A - 11B in the drawings, therein
is depicted various a proprotor system 900 of the present
disclosure . Proprotor system 900 includes a yoke 902
depicted as having an inboard pocket 904 and a pair of hub
bolt openings (not visible ) inboard of inboard pocket 904
each having a bushing secured therein . A bearing assembly
910 is disposed in inboard pocket 904 of yoke 902. Bearing
assembly 910 includes a centrifugal force bearing 912 , a
shear bearing 914 , an inboard beam 916 and a bearing cage
918. In the illustrated embodiment, inboard beam 916
coupled to an elastomer element of shear bearing 914 by
vulcanizing , bonding, adhering or otherwise securing the
elastomeric material to the inner surface of cavity 916a .
In the illustrated embodiment, bearing cage 918 includes
upper clamp plate 918a , spindle 918b , bearing retainer 918c
and lower clamp plate 918d. Bearing retainer 918c has an
anti -rotation coupling with centrifugal force bearing 912. In
the illustrated embodiment, screws 920 extend between
bearing retainer 918c and an outboard metalhousing 912a of
centrifugal force bearing 912 to prevent relative rotation and
lateral movements therebetween . In the illustrated embodi
ment, spindle 918b passes through and is operable to allow
 US 10,494,091 B2
19 20
relative rotation thereabout by centrifugal force bearing 912 6. The proprotor system as recited in claim 4 wherein the
and shear bearing 914.Upper clamp plate 918a and a lower bearing cage further comprises a bearing ring coupled to the
clamp plate 918d are coupled together by bearing bolts shear bearing.
922a , 922b . Upper and lower clamp plates 918a , 918b are 7. The proprotor system as recited in claim 6 wherein the
coupled to yoke 902 by hub bolts 924a, 924b . As described 5 shear bearing is bolted to the bearing ring .
above, hub bolts 924a , 924b have been foreshortened for 8. The proprotor system as recited in claim 4 wherein the
convenience of illustration as hub bolts 924a, 924b would centrifugal force bearing is disposed within the bearing
also coupled the constant velocity joint to yoke 902. Impor retainer.
tantly , an outboard surface 918e of bearing retainer 918c has 9. The proprotor system as recited in claim 4 wherein the
a space apart relationship with an outboard surface 904a of 10 bearing retainer further comprises a spindle that passes
inboard pocket 904 when upper and lower clamp plate 918a , through the centrifugal force bearing and the shear bearing .
918b have the clamped relationship with yoke 902. The 10. The proprotor system as recited in claim 4 wherein the
space apart relationship prevents centrifugal force load inboard beam is coupled to the shear bearing.
transfer between outboard surface 918e of bearing retainer 11. The proprotor system as recited in claim 4 wherein the
918c and outboard surface 904a of inboard pocket 904. 15 first clamp plate and the second clamp plate each has two
Instead , hub bolts 924a , 924b provide centrifugal force load hub bolt openings.
paths between bearing assembly 910 and yoke 902 . 12. The proprotor system as recited in claim 4 wherein
The foregoing description of embodiments of the disclo each of the hub bolts passes through aligned hub bolt
sure has been presented for purposes of illustration and openings of the first and second clamp plates and the yoke
description . It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the
20 to clamp the bearing cage to the yoke such that the hub bolts
disclosure to the precise form disclosed , and modifications provide centrifugal force load paths between the bearing
and variations are possible in light of the above teachings or assembly and the yoke inboard of the inboard pocket and
may be acquired from practice of the disclosure . The maintain a spaced apart relationship between the bearing
embodiments were chosen and described in order to explain cage and the inboard pocket to prevent centrifugal force load
the principals of the disclosure and its practical application 25 transfer therebetween .
to enable one skilled in the art to utilize the disclosure in 13. The proprotor system as recited in claim 12 wherein
various embodiments and with various modifications as are the first clamp plate of the bearing cage has a contact
suited to the particular use contemplated . Other substitu relationship with the first surface of the yoke and the second
tions, modifications, changes and omissions may be made in clamp plate of the bearing cage has a contact relationship
the design , operating conditions and arrangement of the 30 with the second surface of the yoke.
embodiments without departing from the scope of the pres 14. A proprotor system for a tiltrotor aircraft having a
ent disclosure . Such modifications and combinations of the helicopter flight mode and an airplane flight mode, the
illustrative embodiments as well as other embodiments will proprotor system comprising:
be apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the a yoke having a plurality of blade arms including a first
description . It is, therefore, intended that the appended 35 blade arm having an inboard pocket with an outboard
claims encompass any such modifications or embodiments. surface and a plurality of hub bolt openings inboard of
What is claimed is: the inboard pocket;
1. A proprotor system for a tiltrotor aircraft having a a bearing assembly disposed at least partially within the
helicopter flight mode and an airplane flight mode, the inboard pocket, the bearing assembly including a bear
proprotor system comprising : 40 ing cage with an outboard surface, a shear bearing and
a yoke having a plurality of blade arms including a first a centrifugal force bearing;
blade arm having an inboard pocket; an inboard beam disposed at least partially between the
a bearing assembly disposed at least partially within the centrifugal force bearings and the shear bearing ;
inboard pocket, the bearing assembly including a bear a proprotor blade coupled to the inboard beam ; and
ing cage , a shear bearing and a centrifugal force bear- 45 a plurality of hub bolts coupling the bearing cage to the
ing; yoke at the hub bolt openings such that the hub bolts
an inboard beam disposed at least partially between the provide centrifugal force load paths between the bear
centrifugal force bearing and the shear bearing ; ing assembly and the yoke inboard of the inboard
a proprotor blade coupled to the inboard beam ; and pocket and such that there is a spaced apart relationship
a plurality of hub bolts coupling the bearing cage to the 50 between the outboard surface of the bearing cage and
yoke such that the hub bolts provide centrifugal force the outboard surface of the inboard pocket to prevent
load paths between the bearing assembly and the yoke centrifugal force load transfer therebetween .
inboard of the inboard pocket. 15. The proprotor system as recited in claim 14 wherein
2. The proprotor system as recited in claim 1 wherein the the bearing cage further comprises first and second clamp
yoke further comprises first and second surfaces and defines 55 plates each having a plurality of hub bolt openings and a
a plurality of hub bolt openings extending between the first bearing retainer coupled to the centrifugal force bearing .
and second surfaces inboard of the inboard pocket. 16. The proprotor system as recited in claim 15 wherein
3. The proprotor system as recited in claim 2 further the bearing cage further comprises a bearing ring coupled to
comprising a bushing disposed within each of the hub bolt the shear bearing.
openings of the yoke. 60 17. The proprotor system as recited in claim 15 wherein
4. The proprotor system as recited in claim 2 wherein the the centrifugal force bearing is disposed within the bearing
bearing cage further comprises first and second clamp plates retainer.
each having a plurality of hub bolt openings and a bearing 18. The proprotor system as recited in claim 15 wherein
retainer coupled to the centrifugal force bearing . the bearing retainer further comprises a spindle that passes
5. The proprotor system as recited in claim 4 wherein the 65 through the centrifugal force bearing and the shear bearing
centrifugal force bearing further comprises an elastomeric and wherein the inboard beam is coupled to the shear
element that is vulcanized with the bearing retainer. bearing.
 US 10,494,091 B2
21 22
19. The proprotor system as recited in claim 15 wherein
each of the hub bolts passes through aligned hub bolt
openings of the first and second clamp plates and the yoke
to clamp the bearing cage to the yoke such that the hub bolts
provide centrifugal force load paths between the bearing 5
assembly and the yoke inboard of the inboard pocket and
maintain a spaced apart relationship between the outboard
surface of the bearing cage and the outboard surface of the
inboard pocket to prevent centrifugal force load transfer
therebetween . 10
20. A tiltrotor aircraft having a helicopter flightmode and
an airplane flightmode, the tiltrotor aircraft comprising:
a fuselage ;
a wing extending from the fuselage ;
first and second pylon assemblies coupled to the wing 15
outboard of the fuselage ; and
first and second proprotor systems operably associated
respectively with the first and second pylon assemblies ,
each proprotor system including :
a yoke having a plurality of blade arms including a first 20
blade arm having an inboard pocket ;
a bearing assembly disposed at least partially within the
inboard pocket, the bearing assembly including a bear
ing cage , a shear bearing and a centrifugal force bear
ing ; 25
an inboard beam disposed at least partially between the
centrifugal force bearing and the shear bearing;
a proprotor blade coupled to the inboard beam ; and
a plurality of hub bolts coupling the bearing cage to the
yoke such that the hub bolts provide centrifugal force 30
load paths between the bearing assembly and the yoke
inboard of the inboard pocket.