IE921514A1

IE921514A1 - Coupling

Info

Publication number: IE921514A1
Application number: IE151492A
Authority: IE
Inventors: Ilie Chivari
Original assignee: Ilie Chivari
Priority date: 1991-05-14
Filing date: 1992-07-01
Publication date: 1992-11-18
Also published as: EP0513629B1; DE59200834D1; WO1992020935A1; ES2066511T3; ATE114788T1; EP0513629A1; DK0513629T3

Abstract

A coupling for rotating parts which permits an offset of the axes of rotation contains an input-side coupling half (10A), an output-side coupling half (10B) and three rings (12, 14, 16), supported concentrically upon one another via rolling bearings, as intermediate members of the coupling. Each of the rings (12, 14, 16) is connected via a first link to the input-side coupling half (10A) and via a second link, offset by 180 DEG relative to the first link, to the output-side coupling half (10B). To guide the rings laterally on one another, the rings (12, 14, 16) have grooves (52, 60; 74, 76) in the circumferential surfaces facing the respectively adjacent ring. Rolling elements (70, 72) are held in the grooves (52, 60; 74, 76). The rolling elements (70, 72) are guided in the grooves (52, 60; 74, 76) in the axial direction, axial guidance of the rings (12, 14, 16) on one another thereby being guaranteed. <IMAGE>

Description

Technical field The invention relates to a coupling for coupling rotating parts allowing an offset rotation, comprising of the axis of (a) a driving side coupling half arranged to be connected to the driving side one of the parts to be coupled. (b) a driven side coupling half arranged to be connected to the driven side portion of the portlone to be coupled, (c) three rings mounted concentrically on each other through roller hearing Beans, as intermediate coupling neabers, wherein id) each of the rings is connected through a firnt link to the driving side coupling half and through a second link angulary offset by 180° to the first one, to the driven side coupling half.

Prior art Such a coupling is, for example, known from U8-A4,040,270. In the known coupling, the rings are mounted on each other through cylindrical slide bearings. The axial guidance is effected through the links.

Prom DB-A-34 29 043 an axial offset coupling having annular intermediate coupling members is known, in which a second . and a third intermediate coupling member are rotatably mounted on a first intermediate coupling member oide-by-side on a slide bearing. The second intermediate coupling member is formed by two rings located on both sides of the third intermediate coupling caber. The intermediate coupling neabers are guided at each other through axial bearings. λ slnilar arrangement ia shown by DB-A-35 19 895.

Disclosure of the invention It ie the object of the invention to construct a coupling of the above mentioned type which is simple and compact.

It is the more specific object of the invention to provide a simply constructed axle-offset coupling of the above mentioned type in which the three rings forming the intermediate coupling members are guided at each other.

According to the invention it is provided that Further modification's of the invention ere subject matter of the subclaims.

Embodiments of the invention will now be deecrlbed in greater detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Short description of the drawings Pig.l shows a coupling half with the rings and the links in an embodiment of the coupling.

Pig.2 «bows a longitudinal section through the rings .serving as intermediate coupling members and comprising the roller bodies.

Pig.3 shows a longitudinal section through the rings in another embodiment of the coupling.

Pig.4 shows modified embodiments of the bearing with rollers.

Pig.5 is a longitudinal section through the rings in another embodiment of the coupling.

Pig.6 shows a fractional cross section through the outer ring in the embodiment of Fig. 5.

Pig. 7 shows a longitudinal section of a half of three Intermediate coupling members for a coupling having inwardly projecting arms for mounting links, the links of each ring being articuletedly connected on one side to a driving side coupling half and on the diametrically opposite side to the driven side coupling half.

Fig.8 le an illustration similar to Fig. 7 for intermediate coupling members having outwardly projecting arms.

Fig.9 shows another embodiment.

Pig.10 shows a longitudinal section through a shaft coupling along the lino E-F of Fig. 11.

Pig.11 shows a section along the line C-D of Pig. 10.

Pig.12 shows a section along the line 0-H of Pig. 11. ι Pig.13 shows a longitudinal section through another eabodiaant of a shaft coupling.

Prof erred eahodlaent of the invention 5 λ driving side coupling half ie designated by 10A. λ correspondingly formed driven side coupling half 10B le not visible in Fig. 1 and indicated only by dotted . lines. Tbs driven side coupling half 10B is lacated in front of the paper plane in fig. 1. Three intaraediate coupling members in the form of three rings 12, 14 and 16 are arranged between the driving side coupling half 10 and the driven side coupling half. The three rings 12. 14, 16 are arranged concentrically in each other similarly to OS-A-4,040,270. Two pairs of radial arms of which only am 20 is visible in Fig. 1, are provided at the outer ring 12 diametrioally opposite thereto. Bach pair presents an arm at the one end face and a second arm at the opposite end face of the ring 12. Two pairs of radial arms of which only the arm 22 is visible in Fig. 1, are provided at the median ring 14 also diametrically opposite thereto. Also herein, each pair presents an am at one end face and one am at the opposite end face of the ring 14. Two pairs of radial arms of which only the arm 26 is visible in Fig. l, are provided at the inner ring 16. diametrically opposite thereto. The arms provided at the rings 12, 14 and 16 are, in the illustrated central position with aligning axes of the coupling halves angulary spaced respectively by 60·.

Links are pivotably mounted between the pairs of radial arms. These links are articulated with their other ends at the coupling halves. The arms (not illustrated) of the outer ring 12 are connected through a link (also not illustrated) to the driving side coupling half 10A. The arms 20 of the outer ring 12 diametrically opposite thereto are connected through a link 32 to the driven $ aide coupling halt 10B. Correspondingly, the ares 22 of the nodi an ring 14 are connected through a link 36 to . the driving side coupling half 10A. Tbe ares (not Illustrated) of the median ring 14 diametrically opposite thereto are connected through a link 38 to the driven aide coupling half 10B. The arms 26 of the inner ring 16 are connected through a link 40 to the driving side coupling half 10. The arse (not illustrated) of the inner ring 16 opposite thereto are connected through a link (also not illustrated) to the driven side coupling half 10B. The links extend from the arms at the respective rings clockwise about the rings 12, 14, 16. 'ΐυβ pivot axes of the links to 43 at the arns of the rings 12, 14, 16 are located, In the illustrated central position of the coupling, on a common cylinder jacket.

Also the pivot axes about which tbe links are articulated at the driving and driven side coupling half ,10A and 10B, respectively, are located on this cylinder jacket. The links have slle the sane length. This Is the known construction of the coupling described in V8-A4,040,270.

As can be seen from Pig. 2, the outer ring 12 is devlded along its radial plane of symmetry 46. The ring 12 comprises two halves 12A and 12B. Tbe halves 12A and 12B are releasably connected through screws 48. The ring 12 presents a groove 52 of rectangular cross section on its inner circumferential surface 50 facing the median ring 14. A race 54 of a hard metal is arranged in the groove 52.

Correspondingly, the median ring 14 is devlded along the radial plane of symmetry 46 and comprises two halves 14A end 14B. The halves 14A and 14B are interconnected by screws 56. The ring 14 presents a groove 60 extending in circumferential direction on its outer circumferential surface 58 facing the outer ring 12. The groove 60 of tho median ring 14 is aligned with the groove 52 of the outer ring 12. The groove 60 has also a generally rectangular arose section, λ race 62 of a hard metal is arranged in the groove 60. An annular elit 64 is foraed between the inner circonferantial surface 50 of the outer ring 12 and the outer oircuaferential surface 56 of the aedian ring 14. The annular elit 64 is sealed on both sides of the grooves 52 and 60 towards the outer space by sealing rings 66 and 66. The sealing rings 66 and 68 are located in oircuaferential grooves in tbe outer euface 58 and are sealingly engag the inner surface 50.

Roller bodies in the fora of rollers 70 are situated ip the annular spaae formed by the two grooves 52 and 60.

The cavity foraed between the eealing rings 66 and 68 including the annular apace is, for the rest, filled with fat.

Tbe aedian ring 14 ie nounted similarly on the inner ring 16 through rollers 72. The rollers 72 are arranged in an annular space foraed by a groove 74 in tbe inner circumferential surface of the median ring 14 and a groove 76 in tbe outer circumferential surface of the inner ring 16. Races 76 and 80 of hard metal are arranged in the grooves 74 and 76. respectively. Also the inner ring 16 is diveded along the plana of symmetry 46, the two parts being releasably. connected by screws 82. The cavity between the rings 14 and 16 Is sealed by eealing rings 84 and 86 against the outer space and filled with fat.

By rolling motions of the rollers the rings oan execute the reciprocating compensating rotational movement occurlng with an offset of the axes. But also a positive axial guidance of the rings on each other is effected by the rollers and the grooves semicircular in cross section.

Fig. 3 shove β modified embodiment in an Illustration similar to Fig. 2. In Fig. 3, there are provided rollers 90 and 92A and 92B, respectively. The rollers are arranged In grooves 94, 96 and 98, 100, respectively, rectangular In croee section. Cylindrical races 102, 104 and 106, 108, respectively, of hard metal ere located on the ground of the grooves 94, 96 end 98, 100, respectively.

In the embodiment of fig. 3, two circular arrays of rollers 92A and 92B axially offset to each other are provided between the innermost ring 16 and the median ring 14. The circular arrays 92A and 92B are separated by a spacer ring 93. Instead of two circular arrays of rollers 92A and 92B, also more than two euch circular arrays way be provided reepectively with spacer rings therebetween.

The embodiment according to Fig. 4 1b again similarly contructed as the embodiment according to Fig. 3. Also herein, the rollers 90 serve as roller bodies. When the races 102 and 104 are mounted between the outer ring 12 and the median ring 14, they do not extend over the whole ground of the grooves 94 and 96. respectively. Annular discs 110, 112 and 114, 116, reepectively, are held between the end faces of the races and the side walls of the grooves 94 and 96. The annular discs 110 and 112 are also made of a hard metal. When axial forces occur, the rollers engage these annular discs 110 and 112.

When mounted between the median ring 14 and the inner ring 16, as illustrated herein in another embodiment, the races cover the whole ground of the grooves 94 and 96, respectively. Instead of the annular discs, there ere provided rings 118, 120 and 122, 124, respectively, held In annular recesses in the side walls of the grooves. The rings 118, 120, 122 end 124 have rectangular, proferrably square crons section and are made of a material of low-friction surface.

Another embodiment ia illustrated in Pigs. 5 and 6.

As can be seen from Pig. 5, there are provided three concentric»! rings 130, 132 and 134. Bach of the rings 130, 132 and 134 comprises two halves 130A, 130B; 132A, 132B and J34A, 134B. The halves of the rings 130, 132 and 134 are releasably connected by axial screws 136, 138 and 140. The outer ring 130 is mounted through rollers 142 on the median ring 132. The median ring 132 is, in turn, mounted through rollers 144 on the inner ring 134. As in the other embodiments, the rollers 142 arc arranged in grooves 146 in the inner surface of the outer ring 132 and 148 in the outer surface of the median ring. Correspondingly, the rollers 144 are arranged in grooves 150 in the inner surface of the median ring 132 and the outer surface of the inner ring 134. Strips 154, 156 and 158, 160, respectively, on which the rollers 142 and 144, respectively, are running, are arranged on the ground of the grooves 146, 48; 150, 152. The strips 154 and 156 are made of hardened spring steel.

In order to onsure safe bolding of the elastic strips 154 to 160 on the ground of the grooves, particularly the grooves 148 and 152 arranged on the outer surfaces, axial annular grooves 362, 164; 166, 168; 170, 172; 174, 176 are provided in the side walls of the grooves, communicating respectively with the ground of the groove. The annular grooves 162 to 176 accomodate the edges of the strips 154 to 160. The halves of the rings 130, 132 and 134 are placed on the circularly bent stripe 154 to 160 from opposite sides and are then screwed by means of the screws 136, 138 and 140. Thereby, the strips are positively held in the rings 130. 132 and 134.

As can ba seen from Fig. 6, the outer ring 130 has a relatively snail thickness in radial direction. The ring presents on the outer face semicylindrical axially extending projections 180 approximately In the range of tho radial arms. Bores 182 are provided in these projections and the part of the ring 130 communicating therewith. The screws 136 extend through those bores 182. Thus, a thin ring 130 results without affecting the stability of the guiding of the screw. The other components of the coupling are similar to Fig. 1 and therefore are not described in further detail. The e projections 180 are angularly offset by 60° two of these projections being located in the same longitudinal plane as the diametrically opposite radial arms provided at the outer ring 180.

Pig. 7 shows the upper half of a longitudinal section of three rings 210, 212 and 214 mounted on each other and serving as intermediate coupling membera of a coupling allowing offset of the axes. Radially inwardly extending pairs of arms are formed at the rings 210, 212 and 214, in Pig. 1, the pair of arms 216, 218 of the innermost ring 214 being illustrated in section. A bolt 220 extends between the arms 216 and 218. The bolt 220 engages, with a head 222, the outer surface of the arm 216. At its other end, the bolt presents a threaded section 224. A nut 226 Is screwed on this section 224. A sleeve 228 extending between the arme 216 and 218 of the innermost ring 214 is located on the bolt 220. The sleeve 228 la connected through a rubber metal ring 230 to an eye 232 of a link 234. A similar arrangenent is provided on the diametrically opposite side of the ring 214. Tho link 234 is flexibly connected to a driving side coupling half (not illustrated). The link (not illustrated) diametrically opposite thereto is connected to a driven side coupling half (also not illustrated). Correspondingly, also the rings 210 and 212 are connected through arms and links on one side to the driving side coupling half and on the other side to the driven side coupling half. The function of the coupling corresponds to the above mentioned US-A-4,040,370.

Driving side and driven side coupling halves are interconnected by intermediate coupling members in the fora of three rings mounted on each other, each of which is connected through a link on one side to the driving side coupling half and on the other side to the driven side coupling half. Such a coupling permits Isogonal transmission of a rotational movement also with radial offset, by a combination of a pivotal movement of the links and a recprocating rotational movement of the rings relative each other.

The outermost ring 210 presents a groove 235 on its inner surface. The median ring 212 presents a groove 238 aligned with the groove 236 on its outer surface. Roller bodies 240 in the form of rollers are guided in the grooves 236 and 238. The roller bodies .240 are running on races on the ground of the grooves 236 and 238. These races are formed by the hardened surfaces of the rings 210 and 212. The roller bodies 240 are guided between the side walls of the grooves 236 and 238. Thereby, also an axial guidance of the rings 210 and 212 at each other is effected. λ slit 242 is formed between the rings 210 and 212. The slit 242 is sealed on both sides of the roller bodies 240 by labyrinth seels 244 and 246. ihe labyrinth seals 244 and 246 are made of elastic rings held in circumferential grooves 248 and 250, respectively, in the outer surface of the median ring 212 and engaged with their outer circumference to the inner surface of the outermost ring 210. Ihus, a closed annular space is formed, λ lubricant, such as fat, is fed in this annular space. The lubricant is applied through a threaded bore 252 and a channel 254. The threaded bore 252 is elosable 11 by a threaded plug 256. At an aeration bore 256 the user can recognise when the annular space is filled with lubricant.

Furthermore, the median ring 212 presents a groove 260 in its inner surface. A groove 262 aligned therewith is provided in the outer surface of the Innermost ring 214. Roller bodies 264 are located in the grooves 260 and 262. The roller bodies 264 are running on races on the ground of the grooves 260 and 262. The races are also herein the formed by the hardened surfaces of the rings 212 and 214 themselves. The roller bodies 264 are guided with their end faces between the side walls of the grooves 260 and 262. Thereby, the rings 212 and 214 are guided axially at each other. Generally, the grooves 236, 236 and 260, 262 are of identical width and all arranged symmetrically to a radial central plane 266 of the rings 210, 212 and 214. λ slit 266 is also formed between the rings 212 and 214.

The slit 268 is' sealed on both sides of the roller bodies 264 by labyrinth seals 270 and 272. The labyrlth seals 270 and 272 also comprise elastic rings held in circumferential grooves 274 and 276, respectively, in the outer surface of the innermost ring 214 and engaging, with their outer circumference, the inner surface of the median ring 212. Thus a closed annular space is formed. The lubricant is fed into this annular space through a passage 278 extending through the median ring 212 and connecting the slit 242 to the slit 268.

The rings 210, 212 and 214 must be constructed such that they can be assembled with the roller bodies 240, 264 and the arms 216, 218 etc. Furthermore, it must be ensured that the races for the roller bodies 240, 264 are formed contlnously in a correct manner. It is not poeelble to provide for example · different portions of the race at different ring portions of a separated ring.

The different ring portions cannot be machined and assembled so accurately that an absolutely stepless race would result.

Fig. 7 shows a construction permitting in a way ae simple as possible the assembling of the rings end roller bodies by taking into account the described conditions.

In Fig. 7, the innermost ring 214 comprises a first and a second ring portion 280 and 382, reepectively, separated by a partition line 284. The partition line 284 presents an outer annular section 286 extending in a radial plane and offset with respect to the radial central plane 266 of the ring 214 in the direction of the first ring portion 280, a cylindrical section 288 communicating therewith and extending to the radial central plane 266 and an inner section 290 extending in the radial central plane 266. The groove 262 is formed . on the outer side of the second annular portion 282 symmetrically to the radial central plane 266 and communicating with the outer annular section 286 of the partition line 284. Respectively one arm 216, 218 of each pair of arms is formed at each one of the two ring portions 280, 282.

The median ring 212 presents a central portion 292. One of the grooves 238 and 60, reepectively, is formed on the outer and inner surface, respectively, of the central portion 292. The groove 260 on the inner surface is aligned with the groove 292 of the innermost ring 214. Furthermore, the median ring 212 presents ring portions 294 and 296 adjacent thereto on both sides. One arm each of each pair of tbe arms provided at the median ring 212 is Integral with such ring portion 294 or 296. respectively..

The outermost ring 210 presents a first, a second, a third and a fourth ring portion 298, 300, 302 and 304, respectively. One arm of each pair of arms provided at the outer ring is integral with the first ring porition 298, Tbe second and the third ring portion 300 and 302, respectively, are separated by a partition line 306. The partition line 306 presents a first annular outer section 308 offset with respect to the radial central plane 266 in the direction of the second ring portion 300 and parallel to the radial central plane 266. λ cylindrical section 310 communicatee with the first section 308 in the direction of the second ring portion 300. An annular Inner section 312 also parallel to the radial central plane 266 communicates with the cylindrical section 310. The third ring portion 302 presents, in its inner surface.tbe groove 236 located symmetrically to the redial central plane 266 and extending to the inner section 312 of the partition line 306. A second arm of each pair of arms provided at- the outermost ring 210 is integral with the fourth ring portion 304.

In the embodiment according to Pig. 8, the arms extend from the rings radially outwardly.

Also in the embodiment according to Fig. 8, an outermost ring 320, a median ring 322 and an Innermost ring 324 are provided. The outermost ring 320 presents a groove 326 on its inner surface. The median ring 322 presents a groovo 328 alignod with tho groove 326 on its outer surface. Roller bodies 330 are running in the grooves 326 and 328. The roller bodies 330 are running also herein on races formed by the hardened surface of the rings 320 and 322 themselves. The roller bodies 330 formed by cylindrical rollers are laterally guided by the side walls of the grooves 326 and 328. Thereby, also the ring 320 is guided in axial direction on the ring 322. The median ring 322 presents a groove 332 on its inner surface. The innermost ring 324 presents a goove 334 aligned with the groove 332 on its outer surface. Roller bodies 336 in the fore of cylindrical rollers are guided in the grooves 332 and 334. Also herein, the & races for tbe roller bodies on tbe ground of the grooves 332 and 334 are foraed by the hardened surface, of the rings 322 and 324 themselves.

The lubrication of the bearings and the mounting of the 10 links are in Fig. 9 similar to Fig. 7 and therefore are not described in further detail once again. Also the connection to the driving side coupling half and to the driven side coupling half ie similar as described in connection with Fig. 7.

The outermost ring 320 comprises a first ring portion 338 and a second ring portion 340 separated from each other by a partition line 342. The partition line comprises a first outer annular section 346 extending in a. radial central plane 344 os well as a second cylindrical section 348 communicating with the first section 346 and extending from the radial central plane 344 in direction to the second ring portion 340, and a third inner annular section 350 communicating with the second section 348. The first ring portion 338 presents on its inner surface, the groove 326 extending symmetrically to the radial central plane 344 to the third section 350 of the partition line 342. A radially outwardly projecting arm 352 and 354, respectively, of each pair of arms provided at the first ring 320 is Integral with each of the ring portions 338 and 340.

Tbe second ring 322 presents a first and a second ring portion 356 and 358 engaging each other with their end faces and forming a partition -line 360 extending generally In a radial plane. The first ring portion 356 extends over the radial central plane 344 to the plane of the inner section 350 of the partition line 342 of the outer ring. The partition line 360 fores a centering ledge 374. The first ring portion 356 presents in Its outer surface and in its inner surface one of the grooves 328 and 332, respectively, symmetrical to the radial central plane 344, the groove 328 formed in the outer surface being aligned with the groove 326 in the inner surface of tho first ring portion 338 of the outermost ring 320. Also herein, an outwardly projecting arm of each pair of arms provided at the median ring is integral with each of the ring portions 356 and 358.

The innermost ring 324 presents a first ring portion 362 . and a second ring portion 364 separated from each other by a partition line 366. The partition line 366 presents a first outer annular section 369 parallel to the radial central plane 344 offset with respect to the radial central plane 344 in direction to the second ring portion 364 as well as a cylindrical second section 370 communicating with the first section 368 and extending to the radial central plane 344, and a third inner annular section 372 extending in the radial central plane 344. A radial outwardly projecting arm of each pair of arms provided at the innermost ring 324 is Integral with each ring portion 362 and 364.

Fig. 9 shows another embodiment of the three rings acting as intermediate coupling members. Also herein, the arms 400 and 402 project radially outwardly and carry between them one bolt each 404. A link 406 is pivotably mounted on the bolt 404 through a rubber metal ring 408.

In the embodiment according to Fig. 9, the outer ring 410 comprises a first ring portion 412 and a second ring portion 414. Tha ring portions 412 and 414 are separated from each other by a stepped partition line 416 and connected by releasable connecting neons (bolts). The partition line 416 presents a first outer annular section 418 extending in a radial central plane 420. λ central cylindrical section 422 extending towards the second ring portion 414, communicatee with the first section 418. λ third annular inner section 424 parallel to the radial central plane 420 connunicates with the second section 422. λ groove 426 extending to the third section 424 of the partition line 416 and aymmetrlcal to the radial central plane 420 is provided In the inner surface of the first ring portion 412.

The median ring 428 presents a first ring portion 430, a second ring portion 432 and a third ring portion 434. The second ring portion 433 is. arranged axially between the first and the second ring portion 430 and 434.

Partition lines extending generally parallel to the radial central plane 420 are formed between the ring portions 430 and 432 and 432 and 434, respectively. The ring portions 230, 432 and 434 are interconnected by releasable connecting means in the form of threaded bolts 436 and nuts 438. The median ring portion 432 presents a diameter reduced as co® pa red to the outer ring portions 430 and 434. The median ring portion 432 ia located symmetrically to the radial central plane 420. The axial dimensions of the median ring portion 432 correspond to tho groove 426 in the inner surface of the outer ring 410. Thus, the three ring portions 430, 432 and 434 form grooves 440 and 442 on the outer and the inner surface of the median ring 428.

The inner ring 444 comprises a first ring portion 446 and a second ring portion 448. The two ring portions 446 and 448 are soparated from each other by a stepped partition line 450 and interconnected by releasable connecting means in the form of threaded bolts 452 and nuts 454. The partition line 450 presents a first outer annular section 456. The section 456 extends parallely to the radial central plane 420 but Is offset thereto in the direction of the second ring portion 448. The partition line 450 presents a second central cylindrical section 458 communicating with the first section 456 and extending in the direction of the first ring portion 446. Finally, the partition line 450 presents a third annular inner section 460 communicating with the second section 458 and extending in the radial central plane 420. A groove 462 extending to the first section 456 of the partition line 450 and symmetrical to the radial central plane 420 is provided on the outer surface of the first ring portion 446. The groove 462' is aligned with the groove 442 in the inner surface of the median ring. Also herein, the partition lines between the ring portions 430, 432 and 434 of the median ring 428 form centering ledges 464 and 466.

In Pigs. 10 and 12 a driving side coupling half connectable to a driving side one of the parts to be coupled, is designated by 510. A driven side coupling half connectable to the driven side one of the parts to be coupled, is designated by 512. Three intermediate coupling members 514, 516 and 518 are arranged between the driving side coupling half 510 and the driven side coupling half 512. The intermediate coupling members are mounted at each other rotatably about a common axis.

Bach of the intermediate coupling members is connected through a first link, for example 520 (Fig.11), to the driving side coupling half 512 and through a second link, for example 522, 524 (Fig.11) angularly spaced by 180° thereto, to the driven side coupling half 512. This function is described in detail for example in the above mentioned US-A-4,040,270.

In the embodiment according to Figs. 10 to 12, a second ring 528, a third ring 530, a fourth ring 532 and a fifth ring 534 are rotatably mounted in axial sequence on a first inner ring 526 forming a first intermediate coupling member 514. The second intermediate coupling member 516 comprises the second ring 528 and the fourth 1» ring 532. The two rings 528 and 532 are interconnected by bridge members 536 and 538 bridging the third ring 530. The third coupling link 518 comprises the third ring 530 and the fifth ring 534. The third ring 530 and the fifth ring 534 ate interconnected by bridge members 540 and 542 bridging the fourth ring 532. Circular arrays of roller bodies 544, 546, 548 and 550, respectively are provided between the first ring 526 forming the first intermediate coupling member 514 and each of the second, third, fourth and fifth rings 528, 530, 532 and 534, respectively. The first ring 526 has a wide groove 552 on its circumference. The first, the second, the third and the fourth circular array 544, 546, 548 and 550 of roller bodies are arranged In axial IS sequence in the groove. The first circular array 544 and the fourth circular array 550 of roller bodies are respectively guided on one side of the side walls 554 and 556, respectively, of the groove 552. λ spacer ring 558 is arranged between the first circular array 544 and the second circular array 546. A spacer ring 560 is arranged between the second circular array 546 and the third circular array 548. A spacer ring 562 is arranged between the third circular array 548 and the fourth circular array 550. The roller bodies of the circular arrays 544, 546, 548 and 55 are axially guided by the spacer rings 558, 560 and 562. The interconnected second and fourth rings 528, 532 and third and fifth rings 530, 534, respectively, present races 564, 566 and 568, 570, respectively, for the associated circular arrays 544, 548 and 546, 550, respectively, of roller bodies. The intermediate coupling member formed by the second ring 528 and the fourth ring 532 form furthermore two opposite radial guiding surfaces 572 and 574. The guiding surface 572 is provided at the left at the second ring 528 and the guiding surface 574 is providod at the right at the fourth ring 532. The guiding surface 572 engages the roller bodies of the associated circular array 544. The guiding surface 574 engages the roller bodies of the associated circular array 548. The adjacent end faces of the second, third, fourth and fifth ring 528, 530, 532 and 534, reepectively, are located In the range of the. spacer rings 558, 560 and 562. The race 564, 566, 568 and 570 of each of the second third fourth and fifth ring ,528, 530, 532 and 534, respectively, extends to one of the end faces of this ring. The first ring 526 is divided along a separating surface 576 extending in the plane of a side wall 556 of the groove 552. Tho two ring portions 578 and 580 are connected by releasable connecting means 582 and 584 in the for· of threaded bolts and nuts. Thie construction permits a correct assembly of tbe coupling and the bearing.

The slits between the end surfacee of the second, third, fourth and fifth rings 528, 530, 532 and 534, respectively and between tbe outer end faces of the second ring 528 and the fifth ring 534 and adjacent flanges 586 and 588, reepectively, of the first ring 526 are sealed by sealing rings 590, 592, 594, 596 and 598 of V-shaped cross section. Thereby, a closed cavity is formed, which is filled with a viscous lubricant such as fat.

The roller bodies are rollers. The . axial dimensions of the roller bodies of the first and the fourth circular array 544 and 550, respectively, are smaller than those of the second and the third circular array 546 and 548, respectively. This takes into account that tbe roller bodies of the outer circular arrays 544 and 550 accomodate a tilting torque on a longer lever arm than tbe roller bodies of the inner circular arrays 546 and 548.

Bach of tho intermediate coupling members 514, 516 and 518 presents a pair of diametrically opposite radial arms. Bach of those arms comprises two axially spaced halves. Radial arns having the halves 600, 602 and 604, 606 are provided at the first intermediate coupling member 514. Bearing pins 608 and 610, respectively, extend between the arms 600 and 602, and 604 and 606, respectively. As can be seen from Fig. 11, the bearing pins are held with plane eurfaces between the forkshaped ends of the arms 600, 602 and clamped by screws. Rubber metal joints, for example 612, by means of which tbe links are articulated to the bearing pins, are located on the bearing pins. Corresponding arms with halves 614, 616 and 618, 620, respectively, are provided at the second intermediate coupling member 516 and the third Intermediate coupling member 518, respectively, as oan be seen best from Fig. 12.

The links are also articulated at these arms in the described manner. Fig. 13 shows another embodiment of a coupling. The coupling according to Fig. 13 shows a first intermediate coupling membor 622. The first intermediate coupling member comprises an inner ring 624. The inner ring 624 forma on its circumference a wide groove 626 having a cylindrical race 628 on its ground and radial side walls 630 and 632. Two circular arrays 634 and 636 of roller bodies in the form of rollers are mounted in the groove. A spacer ring 638 is located between the circular arrays 634 and 636 of roller bodies. The roller bodies are axially guided respectively on one side by the adjacent side wall 630 and 632, respectively and on the other side by an end face of tbe spacer ring 638. λ median ring 642 forming a second intermediate coupling membor 640 is mounted on tbe Inner ring 624 forming tbe first Intermediate coupling member 622. Tbe median ring 642 presents on its inner surface a wide groove 644 aligned with the groove 628 of the inner ring 624. The groove 644 presents a cylindrical race 646 on its ground and radial side walls 648 and 650. Tho median ring 642 is guided with these side walls 680 and 650 on tbe roller bodies of the circular arrays 634 and 636, and thereby, axially on the inner ring 624. Two grooves 652 and 654 having races 656 and 658, respectively, and side walls 660, 662 and 664, 66 respectively, are provided axially spaced on the outer side of the median ring. Two circular arrays of roller bodies 668 and 670, respectively, are arranged in these grooves 652, 654 and are axially guided through the side walls 660, 662 and 664, 66, respectively.

An outer ring 678 forming a third intermediate coupling member 676 comprising two ring portions 672 and 674 is mounted on the median ring 642 forming the second intermediate coupling member 640. Radial arms 680 of the median ring 642 to which the links are articulated extend through the two ring portions 672 and 674. The two ring portions 672 and 674 are interconnected through axial bridge bodies provided outside the range of the radial arm 680 of the second intermediate coupling member 640.. In the embodiment according to Pig. 13, the bridge bodies are formed by threaded bolts 682 having nuts 684 and spacer sleeves 686 interconnecting the two halves 688 and 690 of tbe radial arms. The two ring portions 672 and 674 present opposite radial guiding surface? 692 and 694, respectively, engaging the axial outer end faces of the roller bodies of the two circular arrays 668 and 670. Cylindrical races 696 and 698, respectively for the roller bodies extending to the

Claims

1. Coupling for coupling rotating parts allowing an 5 offset of the axle of rotation, comprising (a) a driving side coupling half (10) arranged to be connected to the driving side one of the parte to be coupled, 10 (b) a driven side coupling half arranged to be connected to the driven side one of the parts to be coupled. 15 (c, three rings (12, 14, 16) mounted concentrically on each other through roller bearing means, as intermediate coupling members, wherein (d) oach of the rings (12, 14, 16) is connected through 20 a first link to the driving side coupling half (10A) and through a second link angulary offset by ISO 9 to the first one, to the driven side coupling half (10B), 25 characterised In that (o) the rings (12, 14, 16) present rocesses (52, 60; 74, 76) in the circumferential surfaces facing the respective adjacent ring, tho 30 recesses facing each other being respectively aligned with each other, and (f) roller bodies (70,72) are held in the recesses (52,60;74,76).

2. Coupling according to claim 1, characterized in that (a) the recesses are formed by grooves (52,60:74,76). and (b) the roller bodies (70,72) are guided in axial 5 direction in the grooves (52,60:74,76), ensuring an axial guidance of the rings (12,14,16). at each other.

3. Coupling according to claim 2, characterised in 10 that sealing rings (66,68:84,86) by which the grooves and roller bodies are sealed against the outer space, are located between the rings (12,14,16) on both sides of the grooves (52,60,74,76).

4. Coupling according to claim 3, characterised in that the space inside the sealing rings (66,68:84,86) is filled with a viscous lubricant (for example fat).

5. Coupling according to on of claims 2 to 4, characterised in that a race (54,62; 78,80; 154 to 160} made of hard metal is arranged on the ground of each groove.

6. Coupling according to claim 5, characterised In that the races are formed by strips (102,104; 106,108:154 to 160) placed Into the grooves. 30 7. Coupling according to claim 6, characterised in that axial annular grooves (162,164; 166,168; 170,172; 174,176) accomodating the edges of the strips (154 to 160), are provided in the side walls of the grooves and communicate with the gound of 35 the groove, respectively. 24 8. Coupling according to one of cl alms 6 or 7, characterized in that the strips are made of hardened spring steel. 9. Coupling according to one of claims 2 to 8, characterized in that the grooves (94,96) have a rectangular cross section and the roller bodies are rollers (90,92).

7. 10. Coupling according to one of claims 2 to 8, characterised in that the rings (12,14,16) are divided along a radial plane of symmetry (46) and the . portions are Interconnected by releasable connecting moans.

8. 11. Coupling according to claim 10, characterized in that the rollere are supported in tbe grooves in axial direction by annular discs (110,112; 114,116) held between the side walls of the grooves and the end faces of the races (102,104).

9. 12. Coupling according to claim 11, characterized in that tho rollers are supported in axial direction by guiding rings (118,120; 122,124) held in annular 25 grooves in the side walls of tbe grooves.

10. 13. Coupling according to claim 12, characterized in that the guiding rings (118,120; 122,124) have rectangular cross section.

11. 14. Coupling according to one of claims 2 to 11, characterized in that a plurality of circular arrays of roller bodies axially offset to each other is arranged between adjacent rings. 3b

12. 15. Coupling accoding to claim 14, characterized in that one spacer ring each is arranged between adjacent circular arrays ot roller bodies.

13. 16. Coupling according to. claim 15, characterised in that the spacer ring is made of eliding material. 5

14. 17. Coupling according to claim 10, characterised In that the outer ring (130) presents approximately in the range of the radial arms on the outer side seaicyllndrlcal axially extending projections (180) in which bores are provided through which screws 10 extend for connecting both portions of the ring (130).

15. 18. Coupling according to claim 17, characterized in that the outer ring (130) has a reduced thickness 15 as compared to the inner rings (132,134).

16. 19. coupling according to claim 17 or 18, characterised in that the projections (180) are angularly spaced by 60°.

17. 20. Coupling according to claim 1, characterized in that 2b (a) the races of the roller bodies (240,264.330,336) formed on the ground of the grooves (236,238,260,262:236,238,332,334) are formed by the surfaces of the rings (210,212,214; 320,322,324) themselves, and (b) the innermost and the outermost ring (212,214; 320,324) are divided along partition lines (284,302;366,342) extending generally in radial planes such that the ground of the 35 formed grooves (284,302;366,342) are not intersected' by the partition lines (284,302?366,342).

18. 21. Coupling according to claim 20, characterised in that the partition lines (3*4,302;366,342) are stepped. 5

19. 22. Coupling according to claim 20 or 21, characterised lm that (a) the links are articulated at one pair each of radial arms (216,218;352,354) of the rings 10 which arms are aligned in axial direction and provided at opposite end faces of the rings and between which one link each is mounted, and 15 (b) the axial arms of at least one of the rings are provided at separate ring portions (294,296) connected to interposed ring portions (292) forming the grooves (236,260) by releasable oonnecting means.

20. 23. Coupling according to one of claims 19 to 22, characterised in that labyrinth seals (244,246,270,272) by which an annular space comprising a lubicant with the grooves is closed 25 from the atmosphere, are provided between the rings (210,212,214) on both sides of each groove (236,238,260*226,228,332,334), the labyrinth seals (244,246,270,272) being formed by rings located in an annular groove (248,250,274,276) on the outer 30 surface of each inner ring (212,214*322,324) and engaged to the inner surface of the next outer ring (210,312;320,322).

21. 24. Coupling according to one of claims 19 to 23, 35 characterised in that the arms (216,218) project from the respective rings radially inwardly. J7

22. 25. Coupling according to claim 24, characterised in that {a) the innermost ring (214) comprises a first and 5 a second ring portion (280,282) separated by partition lines (384), wherein - the partition line (284) presents an outer annular section (286) extending In a radial 10 plane and offset with respect to a radial central plane (266) of the ring (214) towards tbe first ring portion (280), as well as - a cylindrical section (288) communicating 15 therewith and extending to the radial central plane (266), and - an Inner section (290) extending in the radial central plane (266), - tbe groove (262) le formed In the outer surface of the second ring portion (282) symmetrical to the radial central plane (266) and communicating with the outer annular 25 section (286) of tbe partition line (284), - one arm each (216,218) Integral with each of the (280,282). of two each pair la ring portions (b) tbe median ring (212) - presents a central portion (292) In the outer and Inner surface of which one groove 35 each ia formed, the groove (260) being aligned with the groove (262) of the innermost ring (214), and one ring portion each (394,296) oowunlcating therewith on both sides and at which one am each of each pair of arms provided at the median ring (212) are formed, 5 and (c) the outernost ring (2X0) presents a first, a second, a third and a fourth ring portion (298,300,302,304), wherein - an aw of each pair of ana provided at the outernost ring are Integral with the first ring portion (298), 15 - the second and the third ring portion (300,302) are separated by a partition line (306), which - presents a first annular outer section (308) 20 offset to the radial central plane (266) towards the second portion (300) and parallel to the redial central plane (266), as well as - a cylindrical portion (310) communicating 25 with the first section (308) towards the second portion (300), and - an annular inner section (312) communicating with the cylindrical section (310) and also 30 parallel to the radial central plane (266), - tbe third ring portion (302) presents on its inner side a groove (236) extending eynmetrloally to the redial central plane 35 (266) and extending to the inner section (312) of the partition line (306), and - a second ax* of each pair of arms provided at the outermost ring (210) Is integral with the fourth ring portion (304). 5

23. 26. Coupling according to one of claims 19 to 23, characterised In that (a) the arms (352,354) extend fro® the rings (320,322,324) radially outwardly, (b) the outermost ring (320) comprises a first ring portion (338) and a second ring portion (340), which are separated by a partition line (342), wherein - the partition, line (342) comprises a first outer annular section (346) extending in a radial central plane (344), as well as 20 - a second cylindrical section (348) communicating witb the first section (346) and extending fro® the radial central plane (344) towards tha second ring portion (340), and 25 - a third inner annular seotion (350) communicating wlht the second section (348), - the first ring portion (338) presents on its inner surface a groove (326) extending 30 synmetrlcally to the radial central plane (344) to the third section (350) of the eeparting joint (342), and - a radially outwardly extending arm of each pair of arms' provided at the outermost ring (320) is integral with each of the ring portions (338,340), (c) the second ring (322) presents a first and a second ring portion (356,358) the and faces of which are engaging each other and which fora a partition line (360) extending in a radial 5 plane, wherein - the first ring portion (356) extends over the radial central plane (344), 10 - the first ring portion (356) presents on its outer surface and on its inner surface one groove each (328,332) symmetrically to the radial central plane (344), the groove (328) formed on the outer surface being aligned with 15 the groove (326) on the inner surface of the first ring portion (338) of the outermost ring (320), and - an outwardly extending arm of each pair of 20 arme provided at the second ring is integral with each of the ring portions (356,358), (d) the innermost ring (324) presents a first ring portion (362) and a second ring portion (364) 25 separated by a partition line (366), wherein - the partition line (366) comprises a first outer annular section (368) parallel to the radial central plane (344) and offset to the 30 radial central plane (344) towards the second ring portion (364), as well as a second cylindrical section (370) communicating with the first section (368) and 35 extending to the radial central plane (344), and a third inner annular section (372) extending in the radial central plane (344), and 5 -a radially outwardly extending arm of each pair of arms provided at the Innermost ring (324) ie integral with each of the ring portions (362,364). 10

24. 27. Coupling according to data 26, characterised in that the partition line (360) is located between the first ring portion (356) and the second ring portion (358) of the aedian ring (322) in the plane of the inner section (350) of the partition line 15 (342) of the outeraost ring (320) .

25. 28. Coupling according to data 20, characterised in that 20 (a) the outeraost ring (410) conprises a first ring portion (412) and a second ring portion (414) separated by a stepped partition line (416) and interconnected by releasable connecting means, wherein - the partition line (416) presents a first outer ennular section (418) extending In a redial central plane (430). as well as 30 - a second central cylindrical section (422) eoaununicatlng with tha first section (418) and extending towards the second ring portion (414), and 35 - a third inner annular section (424) eoaununicatlng with the second section (422) and parallel to the radial central plane (420), (b) a groove (426) extending symmetrically to the redial central plane (420) to the third section (434) of the partition line (416), ie provided on the inner eurface of tbe first ring portion (412), (c) the median ring (426) presents a first ring portion (430), a second ring portion (432) and a third ring portion (434) of which the second ring portion (432) is arranged axially between the first and tbe second ring portion (430.434) , wherein partition lines extending generally parallely to the radial central plane (420) ere formed between the ring portions (430,432 and 432,434, respectively), tbe ring portions (430,432,434) are interconnected by releasable connecting means (436,438), and - the median ring portion (432) has a reduced diameter as compared to the outer ring portions (430,434), ie located symmetrically to tbe radial central plane (420) and its axial dimensions are equal to the groove (426) in the inner surfaoe of the outermost ring (410) such that the three ring portions (430.432.434) form grooves on the outer and the inner surfaces of the median ring (428), (d) the innermost ring (444) comprises a first ring portion (446) and a second ring portion (448) separated by a stepped partition line (450) and connected by releasable connecting means (452,454), wherein - the partition line (450) presents a first outer annular section (456) which extends parallelly to the radial central plane (420) 5 but is offset thereto towards .the second ring portion (446), as well as - a second central cylindrical section (458) connunicating with the first section (456) and 10 extending towards the first ring portion (446), and τ a third annular inner section (460) couunicating with the second section (458) 15 and extending in the radial central plane (420), (e) a groove (462) symatrical to the radial central plane (420) and extending to the first 20 section (456) of the partition line (450) is provided in the outer surfaae of the first ring portion (446).

26. 29. Coupling according to claln 27, characterised in 25 that the partition line (360) forns a centering ledge (374).

27. 30. Coupling according to clain 14, characterised in that at least two axially spaced circular arrays 30 (544,548)546,550) of roller bodies are provided between each pair of adjacent rings.

28. 31. Coupling according to claln 30, characterised in that at leaet one of the adjacent rings is divided 35 along a generally radial separating surface (576) into two ring portions interconnected by releasable oonnecting naans (582,584). 3«

29. 32. Coupling according to claim 30 or 31, characterised in that at least two circular arrays (544,546,548,550) of roller bodies are separated by spacer rings (558,560,562) and axially guided In a 5 groove (526).

30. 33. . Coupling according to claim 30, characterised In that (a) a second, a third, a fourth and a fifth ring (528.530.532.534) are rotatably mounted in axial sequence on a first Inner ring (526) forming a first intermediate coupling member (514), (b) the second interaediete coupling member comprises the second and the fourth of these rings (528.532) interconnected by bridge aesbers (536,538) bridging the third ring (530), (c) the third intermediate coupling member comprises the third and the fifth ring (530.534) interconnected by bridge members (540,542) bridging the fourth ring (532), and (d) circular arrays of roller bodies (544,546,548,550) are provided between the first ring (526) forming the first coupling member (514), and each of the second, third, fourth and fifth rings (528,530,532,534).

31. 34. Coupling according to claim 33, characterised In that (a) the first ring (526) presents a wide groove (552) on its circumference in which a fiat, a second, a third and a fourth circular array (544,546,548,550) of roller bodies are arranged in axial sequence. (b) the first and the fourth circular array (544,550) of roller bodies are guided respectively on one side of the side walls (554,556) of the groove (552), (c) one spacer ring each (558,560,562) are arranged between the first and the second circular array (544,546), between tba second and tha third circular array (546,548) and between the third and the fourth circular array (548,550), the roller bodies being axially guided by the spacer rings (558,560,562), and (d) the interconnected second and fourth and third and fifth rings, respectively, present races (564,566,568,570) for the associated roller bodies as well as radial, opposite guiding surfaces (572,574) communicating with the races and engaging the respectively associated roller body,

32. 35. Coupling according to claln 34, characterised in that the adjacent and faces of the second, third, fourth and fifth rings (528,530,532,534) are located In the range of the'spacer rings.

33. 36. Coupling according to dala 34 or 35, characterised in that tha race (564,568,*566,570) of each of the second, third, fourth and fifth rings (528,530,532,534) extends to one of the end faces of this ring.

34. 37. Coupling according to one of claims 34 to 36, characterised in that the first ring (526) is divided along a separating surface (576) extending in a plane of a side wall (556) and the groove (552), and the ring portions (578,580) are Interconnected by releasable connecting neann (582, 5 584).

35. 38. Coupling according to one of claims 34 to 37, characterised In that the slit between the end faces of the second, third, fourth and fifth rings 10 (528,530,532,534) and between the outer end faces of the second and the fifth ring (528,534) and adjacent flanges (586,588) of the first ring (526) are sealed by sealing rings (590,592,594,596,598) such that a closed cavity filled with a viscous 15 lubricant is formed.

36. 39. Coupling according to one of claims 34 to 38, characterised in that 20 (a) the roller bodies are rollers, and (b) the axial dlnenslone of the roller bodies of the first and of the fourth circular arrays (544, 550) are enaller than those of the 25 roller bodies of the second and the third circular arrays (546, 548).

37. 40. Coupling according to dain 30, characterised in that (a) an inner ring (624) forning a first intermediate coupling «ember (622) presents on its circumference a wide groove (626) having a cylindrical race (628) on its ground and 35 radial side walls (630,632), (b) two circular arrays (634,636) of roller bodies are located in the groove (626) and a spacer ring (638) ie located therebetween, the roller bodies (634,636) being axially guided on one side by the adjacent aide wall (630,632) of the groove (626) and on the other side by an end face of the spacer ring (638). (c) a median ring (642) forming a second intermediate coupling member (640) is mounted on the inner ring (624) forming the first intermediate coupling member (622), the median ring presenting on its inner surface a wide groove (644) aligned with the groove (626) of the inner ring (624), which groove presents a cylindrical race (646) on its ground and radial aide walls (648,650), the median ring (642) being guided, with these side walls (648,650), am the roller bodies end thereby axially at the inner ring (624), (d) two grooves (652,654) axially spaced having races (656) and elde walls (660,662:664,666) are provided on the outer surface of tbe median ring (642), in which grooves two circular arrays (668,670) of roller bodies are arranged and axially guided by the side walls,

38. 41. A coupling according to any preceding claim, substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to and as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.