GB574468A - A new or improved flexible shaft coupling - Google Patents

Abstract

574,468. Flexible shaft couplings. STIEGER, H. J. Jan. 26, 1944, No. 1495. [Class 80 (ii)] [Also in Group XXXII] A flexible shaft coupling. comprises end fittings 11 on the shafts 12 to be coupled, connected by a number of circumferentially disposed spokes 10 secured at their ends to the fittings, the spokes being formed by a bundle of metal wires 13, the effective thickness of the spokes decreasing progressively from each end towards the centre to promote uniform stressing. Each individual wire 13 may itself be tapered and the spokes may have a spring winding 14 therearound. In the centre may be a stabilizing ring comprising transverse discs 15 bonded together by rubber 16 and having holes through which the spokes pass. The coupling may be used between an axle-end 18, Fig. 3, and a wheel hub 19. The wires 13 are welded in holes in end plates 17, and have an interleaving layer of rubber 21 bonded thereto. An internal bulbous stop 33 prevents excessive deflection. When applied to a vehicle axle the usual vehicle springs are omitted. In a modification, wires 23, Fig. 6, of different lengths are secured to or bent round rings 27, 28 and are encased in a rubber sheath 24 which has a spiral winding 29 of wire or a fabric covering. Within the rubber sheath is a tube 30 which may be inflated with air or liquid to tension the wires 'and provide additional support. In another construction, Fig. 4 (not shown), a plurality of metal stabilizing rings are used, some or all of the rings projecting exteriorly from the rubber to provide a cooling surface.