Universal coupler for agriculture drive systems
US6840862B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 20, 2002 |
| Grant date | Jan 11, 2005 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 20, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T403/455
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An adjustable coupler for in-line coupling of a motor drive shaft of an agricultural system with the square drive shaft of a gearbox, wherein the coupler has an adjustable clamping hub for securing around differing sizes of square drive shafts while maintaining coaxial alignment between the coupler, the square drive shaft and the motor drive shaft. The coupler is adjustable to fit different size square drive shafts, yet maintains symmetry about the center axis of the coupler, thereby reducing off-balance forces that could result in wear points and early fatigue. Contact surfaces between the coupler components are minimized to reduce the likelihood that contaminants can become entrapped between the components. The coupler is comprised of a round hub and a square hub, each attached to the opposite sides of a shock absorbing puck. The square hub is symmetrical about the axis of the puck and is formed of two axially sliding, opposing L-shaped brackets configured to clamp around the square end of a drive shaft. The round hub, also symmetrical about the axis of the puck, is spaced apart from the surface of the puck by mounting legs, while the square hub is spaced apart from the surface o…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.