Ball joint
US8308392B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 9, 2010 |
| Grant date | Nov 13, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 9, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T403/32811
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A friction ball joint and a method for using the friction ball joint are provided. A clam shell is formed from at least two segments and has a mechanical element extending from one of the clam shell segments. A cap that has a mechanical element extending from the rounded portion of the cap is also provided. This cap covers the joined clam shell segments opposite the mechanical element extending from the clam shell. The clam shell surrounds a spring that pushes the cap against the fixed outer clam shell, creating friction that retains the friction ball joint in the desired position. Further embodiments provide a locking assembly and an external spring or clamp. In these embodiments the spring or clamp is placed over the outside of the ball and clam shell. The ball has holes disposed over its surface to receive a locking assembly to hold the ball joint in the selected position.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.