GB757468A - Improvements in universal joints - Google Patents

Abstract

757,468. Universal joints. HULSE, G. C. Oct. 13, 1954 [Oct. 15, 1953], No. 29494/54. Class 80(2) A constant velocity ratio universal joint between shafts 3, 4 comprises a pair of telescoping members 1, 2 locked against rotation relatively to each other, each shaft having a universal connection 7, 8, &c. with one of the telescoping members while a universal coupling 11 connects the ends of the shafts, the coupling 11 preventing axial movement but not relative rotation between the shafts and torque passing only through the telescoping members. As shown, the telescoping members 1, 2, Figs. 1. 2 are of approximately square cross-section, the inner member 2 having pushed-in portion 2c and portions cut away at the sides leaving only axial projections 6, to reduce friction between them. In one modification (Fig. 4, not shown), the telescoping members are of tubular crosssection and the inner member carries radially outwardly directed lugs sliding in axial slots in the outer member. In another modification (Fig. 8, also not shown), the telescoping members are again of tubular cross-section and the inner member has external axial splines sliding in internal splines in the outer member. The universal connection between each shaft 3, 4 and its telescoping member comprises a yoke 5 pivoted at 7 to the telescoping member and at 8 to the shaft. The yoke 5 may be of circular cross-section (Fig. 9, not shown). The coupling 11 between the ends of the shaft is a Hooke's joint, the yoked arms 12 of which have stems 13 rotatably mounted by bushes 12a in the ends of the shafts and prevented from moving axially relatively thereto -by nuts 14 screwed on to the threaded ends of the stems. The bushes 12a, &c. are lubricated through nipples 15. The joint is particularly applicable to the power take-off shafts of agricultural tractors.