Universal joint
Abstract
Abstract A UNIVERSAL JOINT COUPLING ACCOMMODATING TRANSMISSION OF ROTATING FORCES THROUGH SHAFTS IN ANGULAR RELATION TO EACH OTHER, AND ESPECIALLY USEFUL IN STEERING COLUMNS OF VEHICLES, INCLUSING VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH TILTABLE OR SWINGABLE STEERING WHEELS. THE JOINT COUPLING HAS A PLASTIC BEARING MOUNTED IN A HOUSING AT THE END OF ONE SHAFT WHICH FORMS THE BEARING SURFACE FOR A BALL MOUNTED AT THE END OF A SECOND SHAFT. THE BALL HAS OPPOSITELY-EXTENDING PROJECTIONS ROTATABLE AND SLIDABLE IN OPPOSITE SLOTS IN THE HOUSING. THE STRUCTURE NOT ONLY TRANSMITS ROTATION OF THE SHAFTS, BUT ACCOMMODATES AXIAL DISPLACEMENT OF THE SHAFTS THROUGH SLIDING MOVEMENT OF THE PROJECTIONS IN THE SLOTS OF THE HOUSING.
Inventors
- 👤 John B Colletti
- 👤 Leonard J Zukowski
Bibliographic Details
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 0References Cited (Backward Citations)
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USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 1974-10-04 | 1975-04-05 | 1975-10-05 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 1978-10-04 | 1979-04-05 | 1979-10-05 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 1982-10-04 | 1983-04-05 | 1983-10-05 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |