Driveshaft with sealed slip joint seal
US5655968A · kind A · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | May 7, 1996 |
| Grant date | Aug 12, 1997 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 7, 2016 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S277/912
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A slip joint for a driveshaft having first and second universal joint yokes includes a first shaft extending rearwardly of the first yoke and rotatable therewith and a second shaft extending rearwardly of the second universal joint yoke and rotatable therewith. The shafts have external and internal splines to enable slidable but nonrotatable movement between the shafts. A sleeve extends rearwardly from the first yoke around the first shaft and a portion of the second shaft. The second shaft has two seals extending therearound and engagable with the interior surface of the sleeve. The first shaft has a bore extending completely therethrough and communicating with passages at both ends of the shaft. A lubricant is applied to the splines prior to assembly and a vent opening is plugged with the yokes in the middle position after assembly. The slip joint is completely maintenance free, never needing lubrication.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.