GB164895A - Improvements in, or relating to, universal joints for power-transmission systems andsimilar purposes - Google Patents

Abstract

164,895. Jelley, B. March 31, 1920. Universal joints.-In universal joints of the flexible-disc type for automobile and like transmission systems, the disc or ring is made from rubber, or rubber mixed with various proportions of cotton or other fibre, moulded and vulcanized in a die provided with projections for forming and locating the holes to receive the drive-studs carried by the shaft-spiders. Except when used for magneto and other light drives, the disc is reinforced against torque or radial displacement, or both, by flexible ties embedded therein during the moulding. As shown in Fig. 3, the base f<1> and head f<2> of the mould register at f<5>, f<6> in the body f, defining a chamber f<3>, and the base carries integral projections f<4>, on which coned washers g are threaded. Pieces or layers of raw rubber &c., which may be pierced to clear the washers, are placed or pressed into the mould to the depth of the washers, together with a proportion of vulcanizing-compound according to the stiffness required, the sheet steel or like torquelinks d being then placed in position on the projections f<1>, coned washers g<1> dropped over them, and the filling completed. The links d may be coated with vulcanite &c. to promote adhesion. Gentle heat and pressure are applied to start the flow, and the filling is rectified if necessary, after which the moulding and vulcanizing are finished by full heat and pressure. In the joint shown in Fig. 1, two sets of three drive-studs b<1>, c<1> engage the washers and torque-links d, which may have slots d<1> to increase their flexibility and grip on the rubber. The links d may be replaced by a hexagonal frame, or by two triangular or V- shaped frames connecting alternate studs, and may be supplemented or replaced by a six-armed radial frame, or by two three-armed frames connected to alternate studs and riveted &c. together at the centre, or by three links connecting diametrically opposite studs. The sheet-metal reinforcement may be replaced by wire links or loops connected at the joints by eyelets, bushes, &c., or the reinforcement may consist of stout cotton or hempen cords wound on a light frame which may be bushed at the angles.