Ancient Egyptians used timbers for transportation of stones for pyramid building. This was roller bearings start.
The first known ball bearing made of wood has been found in ancient Roman ship. The purpose of such bearing was to turn big table-top while playing games.
Leonardo Da Vinci drew a prototype of first modern ball bearing. But this drawing has not been turned into reality until 18th century.
Parisian bicycle mechanic Jules Suriray patented radial ball bearings made of steel. Steel bearings became very popular and were widely used for bicycles and carriages.
Friedrich Fischer, FAG's founder, created the first industrial bearing manufacturing machines and standardized production. It was a start of industrial bearing production.
Henry Timken, a famous U.S. carriage manufacturer, patented tapered roller bearings which are widely used today in automotive industry.
Sven Wingquist, SKF founder and technical director, patented double row ball bearings. Today it is one of the most popular type of car wheel bearings.
1940 y.
In 40s and 50s dominated single row ball (front) and tapered (rear) wheel bearings.
1960 y.
In 60s double row ball and tapered roller bearings started and were widely used.
1970 y.
In 70s single flange wheel bearings and hub units became popular.
1990 y.
90s was the start of active sensor bearings, widely used for ABS, ESP, TC, etc.
2005 y.
In the begining of 21st century bearing self-diagnostics, tyre pressure monitoring and other news were launched.