Patent · US Expired

Retainer assembly

US6390925B1 · kind B1 · utility

31Cited by
9References
25Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventor

Key dates

Filing dateOct 16, 2000
Grant dateMay 21, 2002
Priority date
Expiry dateOct 16, 2020

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
  • CPC primaryY10T403/7026
  • WIPO fieldMechanical elements
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

A retainer assembly is provided for attaching a splined shaft with a splined hub. The retainer assembly is particularly useful in a constant velocity joint to attach the halfshaft with an inner hub (either an inner race or spider assembly). The retainer comprises specifically designed grooves at the outboard end of the splined shaft and splined bore of the hub. The grooves are located outside of the splined area. A retaining ring is also provided. The retaining ring has a specific geometry that includes a pair of opposing legs that are integrally connected to provide a v-shaped cross section and are flexible with respect to one another. The first of the legs of the retaining ring engages the groove on the shaft and the second of the legs engages the groove on the hub to prevent relative axial movement between the shaft and the hub when in the retained position. A method of assembling the retainer is also provided.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.