Fixed CV Joint Stopper Structure for Ball Retention at Large Angles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fixed type constant velocity universal joints for rear wheels and propeller shafts face challenges in preventing balls from slipping and dropping off track grooves, leading to increased weight and cost due to elongated shafts or protrusions required for stopper structures.
Innovation Solution
A fixed type constant velocity universal joint with an angle regulating member mounted on the shaft end portion that interferes with the outer joint member at an angle smaller than the ball incorporating angle, reducing the need for elongated shafts or protrusions, and incorporating a recessed portion in the outer joint member for reliable interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the shaft is elongated or protrusions are added to prevent ball slippage, then ball retention is improved, but weight and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary component (retention structure) between the shaft and balls to prevent ball slippage without requiring shaft elongation or protrusions. This intermediary mechanism achieves reliable ball retention while maintaining the original compact shaft design, thereby resolving the contradiction between reliability and weight.
2Reliability
If the shaft is elongated or protrusions are added to prevent ball slippage, then ball retention is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the retention function from the shaft structure itself, creating a separate retention mechanism. This segmentation allows the shaft to remain simple and compact while the dedicated retention component handles ball retention, simplifying manufacturing processes and reducing overall cost compared to elongated shafts or protrusion-based solutions.
3Weight of moving object
If track grooves are shortened to reduce weight and cost, then axial dimension is reduced, but ball retention capability deteriorates at large operating angles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a retention structure as an intermediary mechanism that compensates for the reduced ball retention capability caused by shortened track grooves. This intermediary structure prevents ball slippage even with shorter grooves, allowing weight reduction while maintaining reliability at large operating angles.
4Weight of moving object
If the outer joint member axial dimension is reduced, then weight and cost are reduced, but the angle for ball incorporation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The retention structure acts as an intermediary that enables safe handling and assembly at larger angles even with reduced axial dimension. This allows the outer joint member to be compact while the retention mechanism ensures balls can be properly incorporated and retained during assembly operations.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design effectively prevents ball slippage and dropping while reducing the weight and cost of the universal joint by eliminating the need for extended shafts and protrusions, allowing for efficient torque transmission and reduced material usage.
Implementation Method 1
an inner joint member, which is received in the outer joint member, and is configured to transmit torque between the inner joint member and the outer joint member through intermediation of balls
Data Source
AI summary
A fixed type constant velocity universal joint includes an outer joint member having a cup shape, an inner joint member, which is received in the outer joint member, and transmits torque between the outer and inner joint members through intermediation of balls while allowing angular displacement, and a shaft, which is coupled to the inner joint member so as to allow torque transmission. A recessed portion is formed in a bottom portion of the outer joint member, and an embedded stopper that enters the recessed portion of the outer joint member is mounted to a shaft end portion of the shaft opposed to the recessed portion. The embedded stopper is allowed to interfere with the recessed portion of the outer joint member at an angle that is smaller than an incorporating angle of the balls and larger than a maximum operating angle during use of the joint.