Self-destructing coupling assembly for use in propeller shafts of motor vehicles

US5222915A · kind A · utility

Assignee

• GKN Automotive Limited · DE

Inventors

• Miloslav Petrzelka · Much, DE
• Werner Hoffmann · Ludwigshafen, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Jun 25, 1990
• Grant date: Jun 29, 1993
• Expiry date: Jun 25, 2010

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y10T403/7028
• WIPO field: Mechanical elements
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A connecting assembly for use in the propeller shaft in the driveline of a motor vehicle between the end of a tubular shaft preferably made of a fiber composite material, and a connecting piece positioned coaxially relative to the shaft end. The shaft and connecting piece have connecting members which inter-fit in the circumferential direction. The tubular shaft is designed to sustain without damage greater impacting force in the longitudinal axial direction than is required to displace the connecting piece relative to the shaft in said direction. In the longitudinal direction, the shaft is provided with a variable wall thickness and the connecting piece is provided with an expanding cone for destroying the shaft in the event that the connecting piece slides relative to the shaft.