MXPA97001927A - Convertible coupling for torque transmission - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a flexible coupling comprising a first hub adapted to be connected to a first rotary arrow, said first hub includes a first hub flange extending radially from the first hub and defining a plurality of fastening holes that are extend within the first hub flange and defining a plurality of through holes extending within the first hub flange; a second hub adapted to be connected to a second rotary arrow, said second hub includes a second hub flange that extends radially from the second hub and defines a plurality of fastening holes extending into the second hub flange and the second hub flange defining a plurality of through holes extending into the second hub flange; of flexible elements located between said first hub and said second hub, a plurality of fasteners, each one of said fasteners connecting a flexible element with one of the first and second hubs, said flexible coupling being characterized in that the number of through holes in the first hub flange is different from the number of fastening holes in the first hub flange, and the number of through holes in the second flange of different from the number of fastening holes in the second hub flange, so that said first and second hubs, said plurality of flexible elements, and said plurality of fasteners can be assembled in a first arrangement wherein said coupling has a capacity for transmitting twisted torque in a first direction of rotation D1 and in a second arrangement wherein said coupling has a capacity for transmitting twisted torque in a second direction of rotation

Description

CONVERTIBLE COUPLING PAR »TORQUE TORQUE TRANSMISSION BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION FIELD OF THE INVENTION The invention relates to devices for transmitting torque from a rotary power source to a drive device and to compensate for misalignment between the power source and the drive device. More particularly, the invention relates to flexible couplings for transmitting rotating energy from a rotating driving shaft to a rotating driven arrow.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREVIOUS TECHNIQUE Flexible torque transmission couplings are commonly used devices for connecting the ends of rotating driving arrows and rotating driven arrows. The coupling includes a pair of flanks respectively supported by the ends of the arrows. One or more flexible coupling elements are placed between and positioned to the hubs, thus allowing the rotation of the driven arrow in response to the rotation of the driving shaft. In the event that the driving shaft and the driven shaft are misaligned, the flexible coupling compensates for such misalignment and the need to reposition the arrows. In conditions where the ends of the driving and driving arrows are too far apart for the clubs to be positioned by flexible coupling elements, a central tubular member having opposite flanked ends is often provided to connect the tabs of the hub. The central member is positioned at its ends opposite the respective hub tabs by means of flexible coupling elements. In conditions where the available space between the power source and the driving device is limited, the clubs on the driving and driven arrows can be reversed. In such an inverted club arrangement, the ends of the arrows are spaced a short distance apart and the tabs of the clubs remain separated. In the winter, in an inverted club arrangement, a central tubular member having opposite flanked ends is often provided to connect the tabs of the clubs. The central member houses the respective ends of the arrows and is connected at its opposite ends to the respective mating flanges by means of flexible coupling elements. The flexible transmission couplings can be constructed so that the coupling has a capacity to carry a maximum torque load between the driving and driven arrows regardless of the direction in which the arrows are rotated in common. Couplings that have such capacity are known as "bi-directional" coupling. It is also known to provide a flexible torque transmission coupling having a capacity to transfer loads of a greater magnitude between the driving and driven arrows when the arrows rotate in common in a first direction when the driving and driving arrows rotate. in a second opposite direction. Such flexible couplings having maximum torque transmission capabilities depend on the direction of rotation of the driven and driven shaft and are known to have a "deflected" torque capacity. Flexible couplings that have a deviated torque capacity are commonly used in applications where the driven and driven arrows are capable of rotating in common in either one of two directions and the load between them is expected to be greater during rotation in one direction than in the other direction, and in applications where the arrows are able to rotate in common only in one direction.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION It can be difficult to repair and maintain a flexible coupling because the equipment to which the coupling is connected can be difficult to move, as well, the repair and maintenance of known flexible couplings can become difficult due to the need for handling, disassembly and reassembly of couplings that have numerous components. Another problem presented by the known flexible couplings is that the coupling components are not interchangeable for use in applications that require bidirectional coupling or a coupling having a deviated torque capacity. Also, the components for applications that have a torque capacity that is biased in a direction of rotation are not interchangeable for use to provide couplings that have a torque capacity biased in the opposite rotation direction. As a result, the maintenance or repair or replacement of the flexible couplings and components thereof must be carried out with care to ensure that the coupling components are arranged to odalize the proper design coupling and to develop the torque transmission function of the coupling. necessary torque, Likewise, separate inventions of coupling components can be maintained for use in bidirectional couplings, for couplings having a torque capacity deflected in a first direction, and for couplings having a deviated torque capacity in a second direction.

In addition, it can often be difficult to determine the type of coupling, i.e. the direction of torque deviation, if any, to which the component belongs, even after close inspection of the component. This also complicates the installation, maintenance and repair of the flexible couplings, and also makes maintenance of coupling component inventions more difficult.

In one embodiment, the invention provides a flexible coupling that includes a first hub that can be connected to a first rotary arrow and a second hub that can be connected to a second rotary arrow. The first and second hubs have radially extending flanges each of which have a set of bolt holes spread therethrough. The bolt holes are arranged circumferentially around the hub tabs in a specified pattern depending on the intended use of the coupling, ie, depending on the direction of deviation of the torque capacity of the coupling. Each of the first and second clubs also has a set of through holes extending therethrough. The through holes are also arranged circumferentially around the hub tabs in a pattern corresponding to the pattern of the pin holes. The coupling also includes a plurality of flexible elements located between the first hub flange and the second hub flange. The flexible elements have opposite ends, a generally arcuate middle section extending between the opposite ends, and a plurality of bolt holes. The bolt holes in the flexible elements are arranged so that the bolt holes in the flexible elements and the hub tabs can be eliminated. The coupling also includes a set of fastener assemblies, each of which includes a threaded nut and a bolt and each of which connects a flexible element to one of the hub flanges. Depending on the pattern of the bolt holes in the hub tabs, the fastener assemblies connect the first and second hubs and the flexible elements in an arrangement to provide a coupling having a torque capacity that is offset in either a first direction of rotation or in a second direction of rotation. The fastener assemblies securely hold a respective flexible element to a respective hub flange, although they are also easily disassembled by the maintenance and repair of the coupling. When the different fastener assemblies secure a flexible element are disassembled, the flexible element can be removed radially from the hub tabs. The removal of an individual flexible element is possible independently of the other of the pair of flexible elements, and does not require movement or change of the connected maces, arrows or other equipment. One embodiment of the invention provides a coupling including first and second hubs connected to the first and second rotating arrows and a central member located between the flanges of the first and second hubs and having opposite ends that provide central member flanges that they extend radially. The coupling also includes a pair of flexible elements located between the first aza flange and one of the central member flanges and a pair of flexible elements between the second shank flange and the other central member flange. The coupling also includes two sets of fasteners: one of which connects to the first hub, the pair of flexible elements located between the first hub and the central element, and the other of which connects the second hub, the pair of flexible elements located between the second mace and the central member. Regardless of whether the coupling is designed for use in a bi-directional application or a deviated torque capacity application, the configurations of the flexible elements and fastener assemblies remain the same. As a result, the invention provides a system for providing a coupling that has either a bidirectional torque capacity or a deviated torque capacity although it requires only single-mallet configurations; Bra fasteners and common flexible elements are used in all applications. The coupling thus provides components that can be arranged and connected to provide a coupling having a deviating torque capacity in either direction of rotation without requiring the use of components that are uniquely configured depending on the direction of rotation. deviation of the torque capacity of the coupling. Instead, the common components, ie, the mace, flexible elements and fastener assemblies, are used in both alternative arrangements and the direction of the torque capacity is determined only by the arrangement and connection of the components by the bras. In another embodiment, the invention provides a system for providing flexible coupling. The system includes a first set or pair of clubs and a second set of clubs. The hub assemblies are uniquely configured for use as components in a coupling that has a particular torque transmission capability, i.e. bidirectional or offset for unidirectional operation. The primary difference between the hub sets is the bolt hole pattern and pitch holes in each. The system also includes a set of flexible elements and a fastener assembly for connecting the first hub assembly and the second set of hubs. The configurations and number of flexible elements and fasteners remain the same regardless of which maza set is used for the coupling. In some embodiments of the system, the different hub assemblies also include a central member uniquely configured. The system can be used in this way to provide a variety of flexible couplings that require only different configurations of hub and central member, the rest of the coupling components being common to each of the varieties of possible couplings. In another embodiment of the invention, the engagement includes indexes on the hub tabs to guide the proper assembly of the coupling components in a coupling having a maximum torque capacity biased in the desired direction of rotation. Likewise, the coupling includes a mechanism where once the direction of rotation is properly determined, locking pins can be placed in the position on the hub tabs to indicate the proper placement of the flexible elements and fasteners and to avoid the misalignment of the coupling components. An advantage of the invention is that it provides a flexible coupling that includes complementary pairs of flexible elements that are independently removable in a radial direction from the closely spaced tabs without moving the rotating power source or the device. driving. A related advantage is the provision of a flexible coupling where the coupling is self-supporting when a flexible element is removed. Another advantage of the invention is that it provides a system for providing flexible coupling that is usable in either bidirectional or unidirectional applications although it incorporates commonly configured components. This results in reduced inventions and simplified invention handling. Another advantage of the invention is that it provides a convertible flexible coupling which has a torque capacity deviated in either a first direction or a second opposite direction. The direction of the deviation is determined only by selecting the arrangement in which the flexible elements are connected in the maces. Another advantage is the provision of convertible flexible coupling components having markings indicating proper positioning and assembly of the components to obtain a coupling having the desired torque transmission characteristics. Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the following detailed description, claims and drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 is an end view, partially broken away and partially in section, of a flexible coupling which is a first embodiment of the invention. Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken generally along the line 2-2 in Fig. 1. Fig. 3 is an exploded view of the flexible coupling shown in Fig. 2. Fig. 4 is a view generally taken along line 4-4 in Figure 3. Figure 5 is similar to Figure 3 and illustrates a flexible coupling which is a second embodiment of the invention. Figure S is a view taken generally along the line d-6 in Figure 5. Figure 7 is similar to Figure 5 and illustrates a flexible coupling which is a third embodiment of the invention. Figure 8 is a view taken generally along the line 8-8, in Figure 7. Figure 9 is similar to Figure 7 and illustrates a flexible coupling which is a fourth embodiment of the invention and which is illustrated in one of the two possible provisions. Figure 10 is a view taken generally along line 10-10 of Figure 9. Figure 11 is similar to Figure 9 and illustrates a flexible coupling which is a fifth embodiment of the invention. Fig. 12 is a view taken generally along line 12-12 of Fig. 3. Fig. 13 is a view taken generally taken along line 13-13 in Fig. 5. Fig. 14 is a view taken generally along line 14-14 in Figure 7. Figure 15 is a view taken generally along line 15-15 in Figure 9 and illustrates the coupling in a first arrangement. Figure IB is a view that is similar to Figure 15 and illustrates the coupling in a second possible layout. Before various embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it should be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and arrangements of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention may have other modalities and may be practiced or carried out in various ways. Likewise, it should be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for purposes of description and should not be considered as limiting.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED MODALITY The drawings illustrate a system 10 for providing a flexible coupling 14 for connecting and transmitting a torque between the rotary driving shaft 18 and a rotating driven shaft 22. The driven and driven arrows 18, 22 are rotatable about respective shafts 26 and have respective end portions 32, 34 and are rotatable in directions in a first and second opposite directions Di (left-hand in Figure 3) and D2 (right-hand in Figure 3). As will be described further below, the flexible coupling 14 connects the driven arrow 22 to the driven arrow 18, so that the driven arrow 22 rotates in response to the rotation of the driving shaft 18 and accommodates any misalignment that may exist between them. In general, the system 10 for providing a coupling comprises the following components: a first set 30 or pair of hubs (shown in Figures 1-4) including a first hub 42 and a second hub 46, a second hub assembly 50 (shown in Figures 5 and 6) including a first hub 54 and a second hub 58,? n set 60 of flexible elements 62, and a fastener assembly assembly 66 connecting each of the first set 30 or the second set 50 of mallets and the assembly 60 of flexible elements 62 to provide a coupling connecting the driving and driven arrows 18, 22. The system 10 also comprises a central member 70 and a second assembly 74 of flexible elements 62 that can be used in addition to the hubs 42 and 46 and the assembly 60 of flexible elements in various situations, such as, for example, when the clubs are inverted on the arrows 18, 22 or when the clubs are spaced a relatively large distance. The system 10 also comprises an alternative center member 218 for use with the second set 50 of hubs 54 and 58. In general, the seventh 10 provides alternative sets of hubs and center members that have various configurations that are used with a common set or sets of flexible elements and a common set of fastener assemblies to provide various alternative arrangements of couplings. More particularly, the coupling 14 shown in Figs. 1-4 includes the first hub 42 which is rotationally fixed to the end 32 of the driving shaft 18 in an inverted position by appropriate fastening means 78. Although other suitable fastening means such as screws The fastening means can be used to fix the first hub to the arrow, in the illustrated embodiment the fastening means is a cuff 78a on the driving shaft 18 which is seated in a cradle 78b in the first hub 42. Although in the illustrated embodiment the hub occupies an inverted position, in other modalities the aza can occupy an extended position. The first hub 42 includes a radially annular first extending hub flange 82 having a generally planar first flange face 86 that is radially outwardly spaced from, and that is perpendicular to, the driving shaft 18. The first flange of hub 82 has four circumferentially spaced bolt holes 90 extending therethrough (Figure 12), each of which is dimensioned to receive the body of a bolt in a manner described below. The first hub flange 82 also has four through holes 94 circumferentially spaced therethrough around the first hub flange 82. The through holes 94 are larger than the bolt holes 90 and are dimensioned for receiving in a manner accommodatable a safety pilot hub 191 in a manner described below. The particular pattern and arrangement of the bolt holes 90 and the through holes 94 around the first hub flange 82 are described in greater detail below. The coupling 14 also includes (Figure 2) the second hub 46 that is rotatably fixed to the end of the driven arrow 22 in an inverted position and that includes a second radially extending ring hub flange 98. The second hub flange 98 defines a second generally flat mallet flange face 102 extending radially outwardly from, and perpendicular to the arrow 22, and facing the first mating flange face 86. The second mallet flange 98 has extended therethrough (Fig. 3) four circumferentially spaced bolt holes 90 and four circumferentially spaced through holes 94. The specific arrangement and pattern of the bolt holes 90 and passage holes 94 in the second mast flange 98 correspond to those of the first hub tab 82 and is described in detail below. The coupling 14 also includes (Fig. 2) the central member of a generally cylindrical part 70. The central member 70 includes a generally tubular middle potion 106 having opposite first and second ends 110, 114 accommodating the ends 32, 34 of the driven and driven arrows 18, 22 and portions of the first and second hubs 42, 46 A first annular central member flange 118 extends radially outward from the first end 110 of the central member 70 and defines a first flange face of generally annular planar central member 122 which is in opposite facing relationship to the first flange face. of sledge 86. The first central member flange 118 has four circumferentially-extending bolt holes extending therethrough (FIG. 3). 90 separate and four circumferentially spaced through holes 94. A second annular central member flange 126 (see Fig. 2) extends radially outwardly from the second end 114 of central member 70 and defines a second central member flange face generally annular plate 130 which is in facing relation opposite the second hub flange face 102. The second central member flange 126 (Fig. 3) has four circumferentially spaced bolt holes 90 therethrough (three of which are shown in Figure 3) and four circumferentially spaced through holes 94 (three of which are shown in Figure 3). As explained in more detail below, the arrangements of the bolt holes and the through holes 90, 94 in the first and second central member flanges 118 and 126 correspond to and align with the arrangements of bolt holes and through holes 90, 94 in the first and second one. second hub tabs 82 and 98. Each of the pin holes 90 in the first and second hubs 42, 46 and the central member 70 is aligned with a through hole 94. This alignment of the pin holes 90 and the holes in step 94 is achieved by placing each of the through holes 94 and the pin holes 90 in one of several orifice locations that are centered at a common radial distance from the rotation axes 26 of the arrows and which are circumferentially spaced around of respective flanges 82, 98, 118, 126 of the first and second hubs 42, 46 and the central member 70. Referring first to Figures 3 and 4, the coupling 14 has 8 hole positions (indicated by reference letters A-H). While many possible appropriate arrangements of the orifice positions can be used, in the arrangement shown in Figs. 1-4, the coupling 14 provides orifice positions located in the following positions: Orifice position A is located in the vertical plane that extends generally through the axis of rotation 26 and is at a predetermined radial distance from the axis 26 ( and it is shown how it is on the axis in Figures 3 and 4). The orifice position A is referred to below as 0o. The orifice positions B, C or D are circumferentially spaced from the orifice position A to angular displacements (dextrorotatively in the figures) of approximately 30 °, 80 ° and 130 ° respectively. The orifice positions E, F, G, and H are respectively located 180 ° from the orifice positions A, B, C and D, ie, at 180 °, 210 °, 260 ° and 310 ° so that the eight orifice positions AH are arranged in four pairs of diametrically opposed hole positions. Each of the bolt holes 90 and the fastener holes 94 in the first hub 42, second hub 46 and central members 70 are located in one of the hole positions A-H. The first hub flange 82 has (Fig. 4) bolt holes 90 located in the hole positions C, E, F, and H, and through holes 94 in the hole positions A, B, D and G. first central member tab 118 has (Fig. 3) bolt holes 90 aligned with the through holes 94 in the first hub flange 82, ie in the hole positions A, B, D (partially shown) and G. The first central member flange 118 has passage holes 94 aligned with the bolt holes 90 in the first flange 82, that is, in hole positions C, E, F, and H. The second flange of the central member 126 has therein (Fig. 3) bolt holes 90 aligned with the bolt holes 90 in the first central member flange 118, and through holes 94 aligned with the through holes 94 in the first central member flange 118. More particularly, the second cranial member flange 126 has (Fig. 3) bolt holes 90 in hole positions A, B, D '(not shown) and G, and through holes 94 in hole positions C (not shown), E, F and H. The second hub flange 98 (see Figs. 3 and 12) has in it bolt holes 90 aligned with the through holes 94 in the second central member flange 126 and has passage holes 94 therein aligned with the bolt holes 90 in the second central member flange 126. More particularly, the second hub flange 98 has bolt holes 90 in hole positions C (not shown in Fig. 3), E, F, and H, and has through holes 94 in the hole positions A, B, D and G. Coupling 14 also includes first and second set pairs 60, 74 of flexible elements 62; the first pair 60 is located between the first mating flange face 86 and the first central member flange face 122, and the second pair 74 is located between the second central member flange face 130 and the second flange face of hub 102. Flexible elements 62 are identical. For the purposes of describing the pairs 60, 74 of flexible elements 62, the flexible element 62 appears on the left in the drawings where reference will be made to co or first flexible element, and the flexible element that appears to the right in the drawings will be referred to as the second flexible element. Each flexible element 62 is a unitary member having opposite front and opposite faces and a generally uniform thickness. Although the flexible elements 62 can be made from any suitable material, in the illustrated embodiment, each flexible element 62 consists of a plurality or stack of thin sheets of stainless steel laminated together to provide a one-piece unitary member that is flexible and It has high tensile strength. In an alternative embodiment, the sheet stack may be encapsulated in a polymeric encapsulant. Each flexible element 62 has first and second opposite ends 142, 146 and a generally arcuate central portion 150 extending between the opposite ends 142, 146. The radial or concave inner edge 154 of the flexible element 62 is generally smooth. The radial or convex outer edge 158 is generally corrugated. The central portion 150 of the flexible element 62 has four spaced bolt holes 162 thereon, each of which is the same size as the outside-of a bushing 95. One of the bushings 95 extends through each orifice of the bushing. bolt 162. The bolt holes 162 in the flexible element 62 delineate between them (Fig. 3) three strands of material 166. The strands will be referred to as first, second and third strands 166a, 166b, 166c in order from the end of the flexible element 62 and with respect to the direction of rotation of the coupling 14. When the flexible elements are connected to the first or second hubs 42, 46 and to the central member 70, and when the arrows 18, 22 are rotated, the cords 166 of the flexible elements 62 are placed under either compressive or tension forces in + anto that the coupling 14 transfers the torque between the arrows 18, 22. As explained in more detail below, this The load on a flexible element 62 is determined by the manner of connection of the flexible element 62 to the first and second hubs 42, 46 and the central member 70. Also, the connection of the flexible elements 62 to the hubs 42, 46 and the central member 70 determines the transmission characteristics of the coupling torque 14. The first and second pairs 60, 74 of flexible elements 62 are placed in an end-to-end relationship to form substantially circular arrangements, so that the openings 162 in the flexible elements 62 are disposed circumferentially and can be aligned with respect to the bolt holes 90 in the flanges 82, 98, 118 and 126 of the hubs and the central member.

Y ? The coupling also includes the plurality of fastener assemblies 66. The fastener assembly pairs 66 connect a flexible element 62 to either the first aza 42, the second hub 46 or the central member 70. For the purpose of simplification of the illustration and description of the coupling 14, only five fastener assemblies 66 are shown in Figure 3. However, in practice, the coupling 14 includes a total of 16 fastener assemblies 66 which can be considered to be a set: four fastener assemblies 66 connect the first pair 60 of flexible elements 62 to the first aza 82 tab; four fastener assemblies 66 connect the first pair 60 of flexible elements 62 to the first central member flange 118; four fastener assemblies 66 connect the second pair 74 of flexible elements 62 to the second hub flange 98; and four fastener assemblies 66 connect the second pair 74 of flexible elements 62 to the second central member flange. 126. The fastener assemblies 66 include identical components that are assembled in slightly different arrangements, depending on whether the flexible element 62 is connected to a hub flange 82, 98 or a central member flange 118, 126. Each fastener assembly 66 it includes a shoulder bolt 174 having a head 178, a body 182 that includes a shoulder and a threaded end portion 183, and a nut 186 that is threaded onto the body 182. Each bolt 174 extends through the body. a bushing 95 and thus through a bolt hole 162 in a flexible member 62 and through a bolt hole 90 either in an aza flange 82, 98 or a central member flange 118, 126, for connecting the flexible element 62 to the respective flange. Each fastener assembly 66 also includes the bushing 95 through which the bolt body 182 extends. Each fastener assembly 66 also includes a pair of washer 190 through which the bushing 95 extends. The washers 190 are located on opposite sides of the flexible element 62 through which the associated bushing 95 and the pin 174. extend. Thus, a washer of each washer pair 190 is coupled between a hub flange face 86, 102 and the flexible element. 62, and the other washer of each pair of washers 190 is engaged between the flexible element 62 and a central member flange face 122, 130. Each fastener assembly 66 also includes a safety pilot bushing 191. The pilot bushing 191 is received in the opposite through hole 94 of the bolt hole 90 through which the bolt 174. extends. In this way, the safety pilot hub 191 is adjacent and is engaged by the bushing 95 and either the bolt head 178 or nut 186, depending on which is adjacent to passage orifice 94. In the specific and illustrated embodiment, each bolt is inserted with head 178 adjacent to the respective hub flange 82, 98 and with nut 186 adjacent to the respective central member flange 128, 126. Thus, in the specific and illustrated embodiment, when the bolt extends through a bolt hole 90 in a hub flange 82, 98, the pilot bushing safety 195 is received adjacent to the nut 186 in a through hole 94 in the respective central member flange 118, 126. Also in the specific embodiment illustrated, when the sleeve extends through a through hole 90, in a central member tab 118, 126, the safety pilot bushing 191 is received adjacent the bolt head 178 in a through hole 94 in the respective hub flange 82, 98. As best seen in Figure 2, the fastener assemblies 66 e are positioned so that the bolt head 178 of each fastener assembly 66 axially points away from the coupling 14 and bears against either one of the first or second hub flange 82, 98 or a safety pilot bushing 190 housed by a through hole 94 in one of the hub tabs 82, 9ß. Accordingly, the nut 186 of each fastener assembly 66 bears against either one of the central member flaps 118, 126 or the safety pilot bushing 190 housed by a through hole 94 in one of the fastener flanges. central member 118, 126. Referring particularly to the fastener assemblies 66 shown in Figure 2 connecting the first hub 42, the first pair 60 of flexible elements 62 and the first central member flange 118, the fastener assembly 66 located in the orifice position E (the right and bottom fastener assembly in figure 2) has a bolt head 178 that abuts against the hub flange 82 opposite the first mast flange face 86. The body of the bolt 182 it extends through the hole of the bolt 90 in the hub flange 82 and through a bushing 95, through a safety pilot hub 191 and is threaded into a nut 186. The bushing 95 extends through a of the a racks in the pair of washers 190, one of the bolt holes 162 in a flexible element 62, and the other washer in the pair of washers 190. One of the washers in the pair of washers 190 is engaged between the first flange face of sledge 86 and the flexible element 62, and the other washer in the pair of washers 90 is engaged between the flexible element 62 and the first flange face of the central member 122. The flexible element 62 bears against the pair of washers 190 The safety pilot hub 191 is received in the passage hole 94 in the E position in the first central member flange 118. The safety pilot hub 191 is engaged between the washer 190 and the nut 186. Of this The bolt 174 and the nut 186 threaded thereon are in tension, with the bolt head 178 resting against the hub flange 82 opposite the first mast flange face 86 with the nut 186 resting against the pilot bushing. 191. Pilot bushing The safety gear 191, the bushing 95, the pair of washers 190 and the flexible element 62 are compressed between the nut 186 and the first mast flange face 86. The fastener assembly 66 that connects a flexible element 62 in the torque of flexible elements 74 and the second central member flange 126 and located in position A (the upper left fastener assembly in Figure 2) have the bolt head 178 supported against a safety pilot hub 191. The bolt body 182 extends through the safety pilot hub 191, the hub 95, through the bolt hole 90 in the position A in the second central member flange 126, and is threaded in the nut 186. The bushing 95 which it extends through the pair of washers 190 and one of the bolt holes 162 in the flexible element 62. The safety pilot bushing 191 is received in the through hole 94 in the position A in the second hub flange 98. The safety pilot hub 191 is at coupling between the bolt head 78 and the washer 190. In this way, the bolt 174 and the threaded nut 186 thereon are in tension, with the bolt head 178 resting against the safety pilot hub 191 and with the nut 186 supported against the second flange of central member 126 opposite the second flange face of central member 130. The safety pilot hub 191, the bushing 95, the pair of washers 190 and the flexible element 62 are compressed between the head of bolt 178 and second central member flange face 130. Each flexible element 62 of either the first or second pairs 60, 74 of flexible elements 62 can be individually removed in a radial direction from the adjacent flanges without removing the other flexible element from the flange. torque, without moving the element of the central member 70 or the arrows 18, 22 and without moving or disturbing the pieces of equipment to which the arrows 18, 22 are connected. Similarly, a new flexible element 62 can be inserted between adjacent tabs in a radial direction. A flexible element 62 can be replaced in this way by disassembling the fastener assemblies 66 connected to the flexible element 62 to opposing facing flanges., removing the flexible element 62 from between the tabs in a radial direction, inserting a new flexible element 62 between the tabs in a radial direction, and reassembling the fastener assembly 66 to connect the new flexible element 62 to the adjacent tabs. Accordingly, the other flexible elements 62 can be replaced in a similar manner. Figures 5, 6 and 13 illustrate a coupling 214 which is provided by the system 10 and which is a second embodiment of the invention. The coupling includes the reciprocating pair or second set 50 of hubs and an alternative central member 218. Except for what it describes otherwise, the coupling 214 includes the second set 50 of hubs and the central member is identical to the coupling 14 including the first joint 30 of clubs and central member, and common elements are identified by common reference numbers. The primary difference between the couplings 14 and 214 is that the coupling 214 includes hubs 54 and 58 different from the first pair of hubs 38, and a central member 218 having first and second central member flanges 222, 226 different from those provided by the hub. first central member 70. More particularly, the second set 50 of hubs 54 and 58, when connected by a set or sets of flexible elements 62 and a set of fastener assemblies 66, provide a coupling having a torque transmission capacity of torsion that is deflected in the direction indicated by Di. This characteristic torque transmission capability is provided through the hole arrangement of p >90 in the second set 50 of clubs 54, 58 and in the central member flanges 222, 226. The second set 50 of clubs includes the first and second clubs 54, 58 having respective tabs 230 and 234 and the central member 218 having first and second central member flanges 222, 226. In the first hub flange 230 (see Figs 5 and 6), the bolt holes 90 are present in hole positions B, D, F, and H and the through holes 94 are present in orifice positions A, C, E and G. As shown in Figure 5, the first central member flange 222 has through it the bolt holes 90 located in the orifice A position. , C, E and G, and has through the same through holes 94 located in holes B, D, F and H. As also shown in Figure 5, the second central member flange 226 has through from the same bolt holes 90 located in hole positions B, D (not shown), F and H, and have through the same through holes 94 located in hole positions A, C (not shown), E and G. In the second hub flange 234 (see figures 5 and 13), the bolt holes 90 are present in positions of hole A, C (not shown in Figure 5), E and G, and through holes 94 are present in orifice positions B, D, F and H. In general, the system 10 for providing a coupling is dependent on the particular configuration of the set of hubs used to assemble the coupling for the determination of the torque transmission characteristics of the coupling. More specifically, it depends on the particular pattern of bolt holes and through holes in the first and second aza tabs, and in the central tabs if present, the coupling has either a bidirectional or deflected torque transmission capacity. In addition, if the coupling has a deviating torque transmission capacity, by definition the deviation is directed either in a direction of rotation, for example in the rotation indicated by Di, or in the opposite direction indicated by D2 - Despite If the torque transmission capacity is bidirectional or deflected, the cornunee 62 bending elements and the fastener member 66 are used to connect the first and second hubs and, if present, the central member. The hub configurations provided by the system 10 determine the transmission capacity of the coupling torque because the connections between the hub and center members and the flexible elements 62 and the direction of load on the coupling determine the nature of the coupling. the resulting load on the flexible elements 62 during the operation of the coupling, i.e., determine the number of cords 166 in the flexible elements 62 that are subject to either compressive loads or tension loads. The cords 166 in the flexible elements 62 have a greater capacity to carry loads by tension than compressive loads, so that the greater number of cords 166 in the flexible elements 62 that are loaded with tension forces, the greater the capacity of the coupling to transfer the torque. The »bidirectional coupling has equal numbers of cords 166 placed under tension and compression regardless of the direction of rotation of the coupling and the direction of load on the coupling, and therefore have maximum torque capacities equal in both directions. A coupling having a deviated torque capacity has unequal numbers of cords placed under tension and compression. Therefore, such a coupling has a greater capacity to transfer torque in the direction in which a greater number of cords is placed under tension, and a lower capacity of transmission of torque in the opposite direction, ie in the direction in which a greater number of cords are loaded by compressive forces. For example, the first pair 30 of hubs 42, 46 and the central member member 70 included in the coupling 14 are configured to provide the coupling 14 with a bidirectional torque capacity. Referring to Figure 12, when the arrows 18, 22 rotate in the first direction Di, the first bead 166a in each first element 62 is in tension (as indicated by the symbol t); the second cord 166b is in compression (as indicated by the symbol c); and the third cord is in tension. Likewise when the arrows 18, 22 rotate in the first direction Di, the first cord 166a in each second flexible element 62 is in compression, the second cord is in tension, and the third cord is in compression. The coupling 14 thus includes an equal number of strands of flexible elements under tension and compression. Referring also to Figure 12, when the driving arrow 18 rotates in the direction D2, the load of each bead 166 is inverted, although it still results in an equal number of flexible element cords 162 which are placed under tension or compression . From this, the coupling 14 is operable either in the opposite direction Di or D2, and is capable of transmitting an equal amount of torque when it rotates in any direction.

In comparison, the coupling 214 which includes the second set 50 of hubs has a deviating torque capacity, because during the operation unequal numbers of cords 166 are placed under stress and compression loads. When the driving shaft 18 rotates the coupling 214 in the first direction Di (see Fig. 13), the first cord 166a in each first flexible element 62 is in tension, the second cord 166b is in compression, and the third cord 166c is in tension. Also when the driving shaft 18 rotates in the first direction Di, the first cord 166a in each second flexible element 62 is in tension, the second cord 166b is in compression, and the third cord 166c is in tension. Thus, when the flexible coupling 214 is rotated in the Di direction, each pair of flexible member 62 includes tension cord and two compression cords. This larger number of tension cords gives the coupling 214 a greater torque capacity than a coupling having fewer cords in tension. If the coupling 214 is rotated in the opposite direction D2, the load on the cords 166 is inverted and each pair of flexible elements 62 includes two cords of tension and four cords of compression, which results in a capacity of transmission of torque of diminished torsion. The coupling 214 includes the second set of hubs and therefore has a greater capacity to transmit torque in the Di direction than in the second direction D2, therefore it has a torque transmission capacity biased in the direction from Di. When rotating in the second direction D2, the opposite direction Di, the flexible coupling 214 is capable of transmitting approximately 50% of the transmissible torque in the first direction. Figures 7, 8 and 14 illustrate a coupling 314 which is a third embodiment of the invention which is provided by the system 10, and which includes a third set 316 of clubs and central member. Coupling 314 includes a third set 316 of hubs 324, 328 and an alternate central member 320. Except as otherwise described, coupling 314 including third hub assembly 316 and center member is identical to coupling 14 and elements common are identified by common reference number. More particularly, the system 10 using the third set 316 of hubs and central member connected by a set of flexible elements 62 and the set of fastener assemblies 66 provides a coupling 314 which has a torque transmission capacity that it is diverted in the direction indicated by D2. The third pair 316 of clubs includes a first hub 324 having the flange 332, a second flange 328 having the flange 336 and a central member 320 having flanges 340 and 344. In the first flange of aza 332 and the second flange and central member 344 (see Figs.7 and 8), bolt holes 90 are present in the orifice positions A, C, E, and G and through holes 94 are present in the orifice positions B, D, F and H . In the first central member peg 340 and the second mallet tab 336, bolt holes 90 are present in the orifice positions B, D, F and H and holes 94 are present in the orifice positions A, C, E , and G. When the driving shaft 18 rotates the coupling 314 in the direction D2 (Figs 7, 8 and 14), the first cord 166a in each first flexible element 62 is in tension, the second cord 166b is in compression, and the third cord 166c is in tension. Also when the driving arrow 18 rotates in the direction D, the first bead 166a in each second bending element 62 is in tension, the second bead 166b is in compression, and the third bead 166c is in tension. In this way, when the flexible coupling 314 is rotated in the direction D2, each pair 60, 74 of flexible elements 62 includes four tension cords and two compression cords. If the coupling 314 is rotated in the di direction, the load on the cords is inverted and each pair 60, 74 of flexible elements 62 includes only two tension cords and four compression cords. The coupling 314 therefore has a greater capacity to transmit torque in the D2 direction than in the Di direction, and therefore has a torque transmission capacity deviated in the direction of D2 - when the steering is rotated Say, the opposite direction D2, the flexible coupling 314 is capable of transmitting approximately 50% of the transmissible torque in the D direction.

Figure 11 illustrates a coupling 414 which is a fourth embodiment of the invention, which is provided by the system 10, and which includes a fourth assembly 416 of the hubs 42, 46. Except as described from another ear, the coupling 4.1 .4 includes the fourth mating assembly 416 is identical to the coupling 14 and common elements are identified by common reference numbers. The fourth hub assembly 416, when connected by a set 60 of flexible elements 62 and a fastener assembly 66, provides a coupling having a bidirectional torque transmission capacity. However, unlike coupling 14, coupling 414 does not include a central member. The fourth mace assembly 416 includes the first mace 42 and the second mace 46 that have respective tabs. In the first hub flange 82, bolt holes in orifice positions C, E, F and H are present, and through holes 94 are present in the A, B, D and G hole positions. hub 98, although partially shaded in FIG. 11, bolt holes 90 are present in orifice positions A, B, D, and G, and through holes 94 are present in the orifice positions C, E, F, and H. The disposition of the bolt holes and the through holes in the first and second hubs 42, 46 are identical to the arrangements of the bolt holes 90 and the through holes 94 in the first hub flange 82 and the first flange of the hub. central member 118 in the coupling 14 shown in Figures 1-4, and the bidirectional torque transmission capabilities resulting therefrom are also comparable. In other embodiments, a coupling does not include a central member that can provide a similar deflected torque transmission capacity-to couplings that include a central member. Figures 9, 10, 15 and 16 illustrate a coupling 514 which is a fifth embodiment of the invention, which is provided by the sine 10, and which includes a fifth set 518 of clubs 526, 530 and central member 522. Except q? In other words, the coupling 514 including the fifth set 518 of hubs and the central member is identical to the coupling 14 and common elements are identified by common reference numbers. More particularly, the fifth assembly 518 includes a first hub 526 having flanges 534, a second hub 530 having a flange 538, and a central member. 522 having tabs 524 and 548. When connected by the flexible element assemblies 60, 74 and an ember holder assembly 66, the assembly 518 provides a coupling 514 having a torque transmission capability that is released. in one of the directions of rotation Di or D2. The coupling 514 assembled with the first set 518 of hubs and central member also includes convertible means 542 to alternately connect the first and second hub flanges 534, 538, the central member flanges 544, 548, the first and second pairs 60, 74 of flexible elements 62, and the assembly of fastener assemblies 66 in a first arrangement (shown in Figs 9, 10 and 15) wherein said coupling 514 has a torque transmission capacity biased in the Di direction and in a second arrangement (shown in Figure 16) wherein the coupling has a torque transmission capacity deviated in the other direction of rotation, ie in the direction D2. While various constructions suitable for the convertible means 542 may be used, in the illustrated coupling 514 (shown in Figs 10, 15 and 16), the convertible means includes the provision of unequal numbers of bolt holes 90 and through holes. 94 on the first and second flange of hub 534, 538 and on the central member flanges 544, 548. In particular, the first and second hub tabs 534, 538 have six bolt holes 90 instead of four (as provided in the first set of rnazae in coupling 14), ie, tree pairs of bolt holes 90 instead of two, but only four through holes 94, that is two pairs of through hole 94. Thus, the convertible means 542 provide a number of pairs of pin holes (where n = three) and n-1 number of through hole pairs 94, is say two pairs of through holes in the first and second hub flanges 534, 538. Likewise, the central member flanges 544, 548 have six through holes 94 instead of four (as provided in the first set). of mace in the coupling 14) is to say tree pairs of through hole instead of two but only four bolt holes 90. From this point, the convertible means 542 provide n pairs of through holes 94 8 where n = three) and n-1 pairs of bolt holes 90, that is two pairs of holes or bolt in each of the central member flanges 544, 548. Two of the six bolt holes 90 in the p >The rim and second mating tabs 534, 538 and two of the six through holes 94 in the first and second center member tabs 544, 548 are located in two orifice positions that are added to the hole positions A-H. One of the additional orifice positions is identified as an orifice position I and is located between the orifice position B and the orifice pore C at approximately 50 ° of placement. The second additional hole position is identified as the hole pore 3 and is located 180 ° from the orifice position I at approximately 230 ° of placement between the p > F orifice port F and hole orifice G. The provision of two additional pin holes 90 located in the additional hole positions in the plus 534, 538 and two additional through holes 94 located in the additional hole positions in the central member tabs 544, 548 is the result of the superposition of the patterns of the bolt holes 90 and the through holes 94 of the deviated torque capacity hub assemblies 50, 316 illustrated respectively in Figs. 13 and 14. The arrangements of bolt holes 90 and holes of p > 94 are overlapped by rotating one of the dispositions, for example, the arrangement shown in Figure 6, through 50 ° (right hand) and then overlapping it into individual tabs that include the arrangements shown in fig. 8. More particularly, as shown in FIGS. 9, 10, 15 and 16. in the first and second p > club studs 534, 538, six bolt holes 90 are present in hole positions B, I, D, F, 3 and H; and four through holes 94 are present in the orifice positions A, C, E, and G. As shown in FIG. 9, the first and second central section flanges 544, 548 have four holes therethrough. bolt 90 located in the hole positions A, C, E, and G, and have through the same six through holes 94 located in hole positions B, I, D, F, 3 and H. The first and second hubs 526, 530 are connected to central member 522 by two pairs 60, 74 of flexible elements and by a set of fastener assemblies 66; no additional flexible or fastener elements 66 are required to connect the hubs 526, 530 and the central member, because two of the bolt holes 90 in the first hub 526, two of the bolt holes 90 in the second hub 530, and two of the through holes 94 in each central member flange 544, 548 remain unoccupied when the coupling 514 is assembled. In order to arrange the first and second hubs 526, 530, the flexible elements 60 and the clamping assemblies 66 to provide a coupling having a torque transmission capacity biased in the direction of Di, the first flange of the hub 534 should be aligned with the first central member flange 544, and the second hub flange 538 should be aligned with the second central member flange 548 in positions corresponding to those shown in Figs. 9, 10 and 15. The pair 60 of flexible elements 62 between the flanges 534 and 544 are aligned with the orifice positions B-E and F-A to leave the holes in I and 3 unoccupied; the pair 74 of the element 62 between the flanges 548 and 538 are aligned with holes C-3 and G-I to leave the holes in B and F occupied; and a complete set of six and six fastener assemblies 66 is then installed to connect the first and second hubs 526, 530, the central member 522 and the flexible elements 62. In such an arrangement, the bolt holes 90 in the arrangements of orifice I and 3 in the first hub flange 534, the through holes 94 in the I and 3 positions in the first central member flange 544, the through holes 94 in the B and F positions in the second central member flange 548 and the bolt holes 90 the positions B and F in the second hub flange 548 remain unoccupied. 4. 1.

In order to place the first and second hubs, the flexible element assemblies 60, 74 and a complete set of fastener assemblies 66 in a second position to provide a coupling having a torque transmission capacity biased in the direction of D2, the first and second hubs 526, 530 are aligned with the central member flanges 544, 548 in the same positions shown in Figs. 9, 10 and 15. However, the flexible element pairs 60, 74 are aligned differently. In particular, the pair 60 of flexible elements 62 between the flanges 534 and 544 are aligned with the hole positions C-3 and G-I to leave the holes in the positions B and F unoccupied; the pair 74 of flexible elements 62 between the flanges 548 and 538 are aligned with the holes B-E and F-A to leave the holes in I and 3 unoccupied; and a complete set of 16 fastener assemblies 66 is then installed to connect the first and second hubs 526, 530, the central member 522, and the flexible elements 62. In such an arrangement, the bolt holes 90 in the orifice positions B and F in the first hub flange 534, the through holes 94 in the hole positions B and F in the first central member flange 544, the through holes 94 in the hole positions I and 3 in the second flange of central member 544, and the through holes in positions I and 3 in the second hub tab 538 remain unoccupied. One of the advantages provided by the coupling 514 which includes the fifth hub assembly 518 is that a hub and a central member can be used for the coupling 514, despite the direction of transmission of the torque deviated from the resulting coupling 514, it is say, an individual club an individual central member is convertible p > To be used and provide a convertible coupling that has a deviating torque transmission capability in either Di or D2 - Thus, if no central member is required, the configuration of the fifth set of hubs can still be used to provide a convertible coupling. that has a distorted torque transmission capability whether D or D2, and an individual hub can be used for both hubs. The convertible means 542 also includes four locking pin holes 570 in each of the first and second hub tabs 534, 538 and two locking pins 574 adapted to be selectively insertable into two of the block pin holes 570 in each. eyelash. The four locking pin holes 570 are between the hole positions A and B, I and C, E and F, and 3 and G. When a locking pin 574 is located in a pin hole 570, a portion of the pin 574 extends from the flange face to prevent the flexible elements 62 from passing over it. The locking pins 574 thus ensure that the flexible elements 62 are properly positioned for a particular direction or deviation by eliminating one of the p > Possible arrangements of the coupling 514. In particular, when it is required to align the bending elements 62, with the bolt holes 90 and the through holes 94 for the torque capacity deviated in the Di direction, a pair of locking pins 574 are inserted in the locking pin holes 570 between the hole positions A and B and the hole positions E and F in the first flap 534, and a pair of block pins 574 are inserted in the pin holes. of blocking 570 between the orifice positions I and C and the orifice positions 3 and G in the second hub flange 538. Conversely, when it is required to align the flexible elements 62 with the bolt holes 90 and the bolt holes 94 for the torque capacity deviated in the direction D2, the locking pins 574 are inserted in the locking pin holes 570 between the orifice positions I and C and the orifice positions 3 and G on the first mast tab 534, and a pair of the locking pins 574 are inserted in the locking pin holes 570 between the hole positions A and B and the orifice positions E and F in the second hub flange 538. The convertible means 542 also includes index means 560 for aligning the hub tabs 534, 538 and the central member tabs 544, 548 and for indicating the locking pin holes 570 within which the locking pins 574 should be inserted to ensure that the flexible elements 62 are properly positioned for a selected direction of deviation Di or D2. In the illustrated embodiment, the index means 560 are two pairs of oppositely directed arrows 578 printed on each alash tab 534, 538 and each central member flange 544, 548. The hub tabs 534, 538 and the central member tabs. 544, 548 are properly aligned when the arrows 578 on each flange are positioned adjacent the arrows 578 pointing the same direction on the adjacent flange. Each arrow 578 on a hub flange 534, 538 is adjacent to one of the locking pin holes 570 to provide guidance in the coupling assembly p >to provide a deviated torque capacity either in the selected direction Di or D2. The arrows 578 on the first hub flange 534 pointing in the direction Di or D2 of the deflected torque capacity are adjacent to the lock pin holes 570 into which the lock pins 574 are inserted to align suitably the bending elements 62 in the first pair 60 with the bolt holes 90 and the through holes 94 to provide the torque capacity deviated in the deviated direction Di or D2. Because the first and second hubs 534 and 538 are otherwise identical, the arrow 578 on the second flange of aza 538 pointing opposite from the desired direction Di or D2 of deviated torque capacity adjacent to the holes of lock pin 570 into which lock pins 574 are inserted p > to suitably linearize the flexible elements 62 in the second pair 74 with the bolt holes 90 and the through holes 94 to provide the torque capacity deviated in the deviated direction Di or D2. In this way, when it is required to align the flexible elements 62 with the bolt holes 90 and the through holes 94 for the torque capacity deviated in the direction Di, the locking pins 574 are inserted into the first mallet flange. 534 in the locking pin holes 570 adjacent the arrows 578 pointing in the direction Di, and the locking pins 574 are inserted in the second hub peg 538 in the pin holes 570 adjacent to the arrows 578 pointing in opposition of the Di direction, that is, pointing in the direction 2. Conversely, when it is required to align the flexible elements 62 with the bolt holes 90 and the through holes 94 * for the torque capacity deviated in the direction D2, the locking pins 574 are inserted in the first flap 534 in the locking pin holes 570 adjacent to the arrows 578 which point in the direction 2, and the last ones Blocking arms 574 are inserted into the second hub flange 538 in the locking pawl holes 570 adjacent to the arrows 578 which point in opposition to the D2 direction, i.e., pointing in the Di direction. In this way, the arrows 578 on the first club tab 534 and the first p > central member plate 544 respectively indicate the direction of rotation Di or D2 at which the torque capacity of coupling 514 will deviate when the assembly with locking pins 574 inserted in adjacent pin-lock holes 570 in the first hub flange 534. The opposing arrows 578 on the second hub flange 538 and the second central member flange 548 respectively indicate the direction of rotation Di or D2 in which the torque capacity of the coupling 514 will be deflected when assembled and when locking pins 574 are inserted in the p >holes; lock spit 570 in the second hub flange 538. In this way, the blocking pads 574 ensure that the flexible elements 62 are aligned with the appropriate pin holes 90 to provide the coupling 514 with a cap > torsional torque deviated in the intended direction of rotation. With the arrows 578 aligned with the arrows on adjacent pins and with the locking pins 574 inserted in a pair of locking pin holes 570 in each of the butt tabs 534, 538, the flexible elements 62 can be installed only on in an alignment with the bolt holes 90 and the through holes 94. The couplings provided by the system 10 are assembled using common assemblies of flexible elements 62 and bracket tester 66. The couplings differ only in the configuration of the assemblies. hubs used to determine the coupling torque transmission characteristics of the coupling, and the provision of a central member. The system 10 thus provides means for connecting a first set of hubs and a central member, a pair of flexible elements and a set of fasteners to provide a coupling having a transverse torque torque capability and alternatively to connect a second set of hubs and a central member, a pair of flexible elements and a complete set of fasteners to provide a coupling having a bidirectional torque transmission capacity. Other features and advantages of the invention are set forth in the following claims.

Claims (21)

NOVELTY OF THE INVENTION R E I V I N D I C A C I O N S

1. - A system for providing flexible coupling comprising: a first mace adapted to be connected to a first rotary arrow, a second mace adapted to be connected to a second rotary arrow, a plurality of flexible elements located between said first and second maces; a plurality of fasteners, and convertible means in the first and second hubs to alternately connect said first and second hubs, the plurality of flexible elements and each of the plurality of fasteners in a first arrangement wherein the coupling has a transmission capacity of torsional torque deflected in a first direction of rotation and in a second arrangement in which the coupling has a capacity to transmit twisted torque in a second direction of rotation.

2. A flexible coupling according to claim 1, further characterized in that the first hub includes a first radially extending hub flange, wherein the second aza includes a radially extending second hub flange, and wherein The convertible elements include a plurality of clamping orifices and a plurality of through holes extending through the first hub flange and a plurality of clamping holes and a plurality of through holes extending through the second. mace tab.

3. A flexible coupling according to claim 2, further characterized in that the plurality of fastening holes and the plurality of through hole in the first hub flange and the plurality of fastening hole and the plurality of through holes in the second mace flange are respectively arranged circumferentially around the first hub flange and the second mace flange in pairs of diametrically opposed fastening holes and in pairs of diametrically opposed through holes.

4. A flexible coupling according to claim 1, further characterized in that the convertible means include n pairs of fastening holes and n-1 pairs of through holes.

5. A flexible coupling according to claim 3, wherein at least one pair of holding holes is unoccupied when said coupling is connected in the first arrangement and the second die-position.

6. A flexible coupling in accordance with claim 1, further characterized in that said convertible means include n-direction of passage orifice and n-1 pair of fastening holes.

7. A flexible coupling according to claim 1, further characterized in that the first and second clubs are adapted to be fixed to the first and second arrows, and additionally comprises central member located between the first and second clubs and connected to the first and second maces for the bending elements and fasteners.

8. A flexible coupling according to claim 7, further characterized in that the first hub includes a first hub flange extending radially defining a first side of aza flange, wherein the second hub includes a second hub flange that it extends radially defining a second face of the aza flange, and wherein the central member includes a first central member flange defining a first flange face of the central member in facing relation opposite the first flange face of the hub and a second flange face of central member defining a second flange face of central member in confronting relation opposite the second flange face of hub.

9. A flexible coupling according to claim 8, further characterized in that the central member includes a plurality of fastening holes and a plurality of through holes extending through the first central member flange and including a plurality of fastening holes and a plurality of through holes extending through the second central member flange.

10. A flexible coupling according to claim 9, further characterized in that the plurality of fastening holes and the plurality of through holes extending respectively through the first central member flange and the second central member flange are positioned so that the fastening holes in the first and second central flange flange and the second central flange flange are positioned so that second flanges of central member and second flange of central member are aligned with respective through holes in either the first flange of central member or the second flange of central member.

11. A flexible coupling according to claim 2, characterized p >or additionally comprising a pair of locking passages, wherein the first cross member has in it a first pair of blocking pawl holes for receiving one of the pairs of locking pins and wherein the second neck of the club has a second pair of locking pin holes to receive the other pair of locking pins.

12. A flexible coupling according to claim 11, further characterized in that the first pair of locking pass holes in the first hub gear and the locking pin received therein and the second pair of locking pin holes. in the second hub tab and the locking pin received therein are located in relation to the holding holes and the through holes to obtain the connection of the flexible elements and the first and second hubs in the first arrangement and avoid the connection of flexible elements and of the first and second clubs in the second arrangement.

13. A flexible coupling according to claim 1, characterized in that it additionally comprises indexes on the first and second mace faces that indicate the direction of rotation in which the coupling has a capacity of transmission of deviated torque.

14. A flexible coupling according to claim 13, and q? E further comprising a pair of locking pin holes in the first hub, a locking pin received by one of the locking pin holes, and wherein index means include markings indicating the pin hole in which the block is received to connect the first and second hubs, the flexible elements and fasteners within the first arrangement and the second arrangement.

15. A flexible coupling according to claim 13, further comprising a central member located between and connected to the first hub and the second hub, and wherein the index means includes markings on the central member.

16. A flexible coupling according to claim 1, further characterized in that each of the pairs of flexible elements has opposite ends and an arc extends between said ends, said arc extending defines at least three openings.

17. A flexible coupling according to claim 16, further characterized in that the flexible elements are placed in an end-to-end relationship.

18. A flexible coupling characterized in that it comprises: a first hub adapted to be connected to a first rotary arrow and including a first flange face of the hub, a second hub adapted to be connected to a second rotary arrow and including a second face of flange of the hub, a pair of flexible elements located between said first hub flange face and said second flange face of aza, and a plurality of fasteners connecting said pair of flexible elements and said first and second hubs, so that said first and second hubs, the plurality of flexible elements and each of the plurality of fasteners are alternately connected in a first location to provide the coupling with a torque transmission capability that is biased in a first direction of rotation and in a second position to provide the coupling with a torque transmission capacity n which it is offset in a second direction of rotation.

19. A flexible coupling comprising: a first mace adapted to be connected to a first rotary arrow and including a radially extending first mace flange defining a first peetagne face of mace, a second mace adapted to be connected to a second rotating arrow and q includes a second hub flange extending radially defining a second flange face of a hub, a pair of flexible elements, each of the flexible elements having opposite ends and an arc extending between said ends, said arc extends defining at the same time three openings, the bending elements being located between the first face of the mace flange and the second face of the same. the hub tab and placed in an end-to-end relationship, and a plurality of fasteners connecting said first and second hubs and the plurality of flexible elements.

20. A system for providing a flexible coupling for connecting a first rotary arrow and a second rotary arrow, the system characterized in that it comprises:? N first pair of clubs adapted to be fixed respectively to the first and second rotary arrows, a second pair of clubs adapted to be fixed respectively to the first and second rotary arrows, a pair of flexible elements, a set of fasteners, and means for connecting the first pair of hubs, the pair of flexible elements and the set of fasteners to provide a coupling which has a deflection torque transverse capacity and alternatively to connect the second set of hubs, the pair of flexible elements and the complete set of fasteners to provide a coupling having a bidirectional torque transmission capacity.

21. A flexible coupling characterized in that it comprises: a first aza adapted to be connected to a first rotary arrow, a second mace adapted to be connected to a second rotary arrow, a plurality of flexible elements located between the first mace and the second mace , a plurality of fasteners, and means for connecting alternately said first and second hubs, the plurality of flexible elements and the plurality of fasteners in the arrangement in which the coupling has an equal torque transmission capability either in the first or second rotation directions.