Bearing

A bearing is a mechanical component that supports and carries a load, derived from the verb "bear". In this context, it refers to devices and machinery with rotating parts. Bearings are used in these machines to stabilize and control the positions of components, as well as to support and maintain loads. Due to these applications, various types of bearings are produced with diverse variations. The history of bearings dates back to ancient times when wooden elements were used as plain bearings for rotating objects. With the invention of the wheel, there was a need for more efficient systems for transporting rotating objects, leading to the development of more advanced bearings. The first modern bearing invention is attributed to Philip Vaughan, an English inventor, who presented the first design of a ball bearing in 1794. This design included balls that were placed in a groove in the assembly axis, allowing rotational components to move. Bearings played a significant role in the industrial revolution, improving the performance of devices and industrial machinery, enhancing their efficiency. For instance, the use of bearings in wheel and axle systems reduced friction, enabling longer movements with less effort. Initially, bearings were made from various materials such as wood, bronze, and ceramics. However, with technological advancements, materials like steel, glass, sapphire, various metals, and even plastics are used in bearing manufacturing. For example, precision watches employ sapphire-made plain bearings to provide greater accuracy by reducing friction. The first patent for radial bearings dates back to August 5, 1869, attributed to Jules Suriray, a Parisian bicycle mechanic. He designed and used these bearings for bicycles in the Paris-Rouen bicycle competition. Sven Wingsuit introduced the concept of modern adjustable self-aligning bearings and presented the design of the modern self-aligning ball bearing in 1907. His design, patent number 25406, significantly impacted the development of this technology.