A new angle on Universal Joints
By using a flexured u-joint, the designer/customer benefits from:
Choice of materials
Infinite choice of end attachments
Optimized misalignment and torque capacities
A variety of torsional and lateral bending rates
Ability to run in either manual or motor-driven applications
Constant velocity
A universal joint is a mechanical connection between rotating shafts which are generally not in parallel, but intersecting. "U-joints" transmit torque.
U-joints are used in a variety of applications, wherever handling significant angular misalignment is the main focus. Typical applications include: articulating mechanisms, food processing equipment, replacement for expensive gearboxes, and drives where motor position must be moved angularly off centerline of the driven unit.
The oldest and most common type of u-joint is called the Cardan or Hooke type joint. It consists of two yokes, one on each shaft, connected by a cross shaped intermediate member. These popular u-joints are frequently used in automotive applications. Because the design incorporates several different piece parts, the moving parts of this type of u-joint usually require lubrication; and as the joint wears, the amount of backlash or free play within the joint itself grows. Even a lubricated Cardan u-joint will require periodic maintenance, and may leak lubricant.
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Universal joints, Shafting
