Abstract A synchronous universal coupling comprises inner and outer pivotal parts which are couples by a coupling member which transmits torque between the parts while enabling the parts to vary their relative angular positions with full synchronization. The coupling member is in the form of a cross with four arms at right angles to one another, two of the arms having a common bore receiving the inner pivotal part, the other arms having a common bore receiving the inner pivotal part, the other arms having aligned, spaced bores on opposite sides of the inner part receiving balls rollably engaged with respective surfaces of the inner and outer parts. The inner part may be cylindrical to fit the shape of the common bore, or alternatively the inner part may comprise a spherical portion received in the coupling member with cylindrical journals rotatable in the ends of the common bore.
A universal coupling comprising inner and outer pivotal parts, and means joining the pivotal parts for transmitting torque therebetween while enabling the parts to vary their relative angular positions, said means comprising a coupling member in the form of a cross with four arms at right angles to one another, two of said arms having a common bore rotatably receiving the inner pivotal part, the other arms having aligned spaced bores on opposite sides of said inner part, and control means in said spaced bores in said other arms and engaging said pivotal parts to synchronize relative pivotal movement of said parts, said control means comprising a ball in each spaced bore rollably engaged with respective surfaces of said parts.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
120 words
A universal coupling comprising inner and outer pivotal parts, and means joining the pivotal parts for transmitting torque therebetween while enabling the parts to vary their relative angular positions, said means comprising a coupling member in the form of a cross with four arms at right angles to one another, two of said arms having a common bore rotatably receiving the inner pivotal part, the other arms having aligned spaced bores on opposite sides of said inner part, and control means in said spaced bores in said other arms and engaging said pivotal parts to synchronize relative pivotal movement of said parts, said control means comprising a ball in each spaced bore rollably engaged with respective surfaces of said parts.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
54 words
A coupling as claimed in claim 1 wherein said inner part is located wholly within said coupling member, and a shaft is connected to said inner part and extends externally of said coupling member, said coupling member being provided with an elongate aperture permitting passage of said shaft therethrough and relative pivotal movement therebetween.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
28 words
A coupling as claimed in claim 1 wherein said inner part has a cylindrical outer surface, and said common bore has a uniform diameter through said coupling member.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
30 words
A coupling as claimed in claim 1 wherein said inner part comprises a spherical portion located within said coupling member and two opposed journals pivotably mounted in said common bore.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
38 words
A coupling as claimed in claim 1 wherein said outer pivotal part has a groove receiving each said ball, and comprises a part axially slidable in each groove, said balls being rollable on respective of the latter parts.