Method for facilitating the assembly of a universal joint
US6907667B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 14, 2002 |
| Grant date | Jun 21, 2005 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 1, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T29/53961
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method of assembling components of a universal joint, such as a cross and a yoke, positions and maintains the rotational center axes thereof in co-axial alignment during the assembly process. The universal joint includes a yoke including a body portion and first and second arms, wherein the first and second arms have respective openings formed therethrough. The universal joint also includes a cross including a body portion having a plurality of trunnions extending outwardly therefrom. Initially, an assembly tool having a recess formed therein is supported on the yoke such that the recess is precisely positioned relative to the rotational center axis of the yoke. Then, the cross is supported on the assembly tool such that one of the trunnions is received within and supported by the recess formed in the assembly tool. As a result, the rotational center axis of the cross is co-axially aligned with the rotational center axis of the yoke. Lastly, bearing cups are installed within the openings and respectively about the trunnions of the cross to complete the assembly.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.