Rolling ball spline slip joint formed from two tubular members
US6893353B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 18, 2002 |
| Grant date | May 17, 2005 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 18, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16C2326/06
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A rolling ball spline type of slip joint includes a first tubular member having a plurality of inwardly extending regions formed therein. The first tubular member has a wall thickness that is essentially uniform throughout the circumference thereof. The slip joint also includes a second tubular member having a plurality of outwardly extending regions formed therein. The inwardly extending regions of the first tubular member are radially aligned with the outwardly extending region of the second tubular member to define a plurality of longitudinally extending raceways. The second tubular member has a wall thickness that is essentially uniform throughout the circumference thereof. A plurality of balls is disposed in each of the raceways for transmitting rotational force between the first and second tubular members, while accommodating a limited amount of relative axial movement therebetween.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.