Ball socket ring seal
US7261488B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 23, 2004 |
| Grant date | Aug 28, 2007 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 26, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T403/32786
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A ball socket ring seal for use with a ball joint assembly eliminates the need for a boot or bellows to protect the ball joint against the environment. The ball socket ring seal of the invention is positioned between the ball and the socket at the point of contact between the ball and socket. The ball socket ring seal not only provides a seal against the environment, it further functions as a wiper for the ball during articulation of the ball stud. The ball socket ring seal of the present invention reduces the weight and complexity of the ball joint assembly through the elimination of several parts, including the known boots or bellows, retainer rings, bands and clips.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.