Ball and Socket Joint Assembly with Flush Fitting Cross Half Lap Joint
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ball and socket joints are often tailored-made and require specialist equipment for manufacturing, making them complex and difficult to assemble effectively as universal joints.
Innovation Solution
A ball and socket joint assembly comprising dual-ended sphere-receiving elements joined by a flush fitting cross half lap joint, allowing for easy manufacturing and assembly, with optional friction linings and adaptable to connect one to multiple spheres.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If ball and socket joints are made as single piece assembly or with multiple pieces, then the joint can be effective, but the manufacturing requires specialist equipment and is complex
Solution Approach 1:
The socket joint assembly is divided into multiple separate pieces (first dual-ended sphere-receiving element and second dual-ended sphere-receiving element) that are joined together using a flush fitting joint. This segmentation allows each piece to be manufactured independently using simpler processes while maintaining the overall effectiveness of the universal joint assembly.
2Reliability
If ball and socket joints are tailored made with specialist equipment, then the joint can be effective, but the assembly process becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The dual-ended sphere-receiving elements are designed with self-aligning features where the ends of the elements naturally fit together through the flush fitting joint design. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for complex alignment procedures or specialized assembly equipment, making the assembly process straightforward while ensuring effective joint formation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the socket comprises more than one piece, then the assembly can be more versatile, but the joint becomes more complex to manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
The dual-ended sphere-receiving elements are designed to perform multiple functions: they can receive spheres at both ends, be joined with other identical elements through flush fitting joints, and form versatile universal joint configurations. This multi-functionality allows the same basic component design to be used in various configurations (connecting one to three spheres) without increasing manufacturing complexity, as each element remains structurally simple despite its versatile capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly for a ball and socket joint forming a universal joint is disclosed as including a socket joint assembly comprising a first dual-ended sphere-receiving element and a second dual-ended sphere-receiving element joined together by a flush fitting joint.