CV Joint Boot Protector Structure for Debris Clearing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Constant velocity joints in vehicle applications experience debris buildup, leading to direct contact between the sealing boot and debris, which can cause disassembly or rupture of the boot, resulting in failure of the half shaft assembly.
Innovation Solution
A boot protector is integrated with the sealing boot, featuring a first and second segment oriented at a non-parallel angle, secured by a fastener, to prevent debris contact and maintain lubrication within the joint.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a sealing boot is used to seal the constant velocity joint, then lubrication is maintained within the joint, but debris accumulation causes direct contact between the boot and debris leading to boot rupture
Solution Approach 1:
A boot protector is introduced as an intermediary component between the debris environment and the sealing boot. The boot protector extends beyond the sealing boot to intercept debris before it can contact the boot, thereby protecting the boot from rupture while maintaining the sealing function.
Solution Approach 2:
The boot protector is positioned to preemptively intercept debris before it reaches the sealing boot. By extending radially outward beyond the boot, the protector creates a preliminary barrier that prevents debris accumulation and contact in advance, avoiding boot failure.
2Productivity
If the boot protector segments are oriented at a non-parallel angle, then debris is effectively cleared from the joint, but the fastener installation becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The boot protector segments are oriented at a non-parallel angle rather than being parallel to each other. This asymmetric configuration optimizes debris clearing by creating a sweeping motion that effectively removes debris from the joint area, while the angle is designed to accommodate fastener installation.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the boot protector extends radially outward beyond the sealing boot, then debris contact is prevented, but the overall device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The boot protector is designed with varying radial extension along its length, extending further radially outward at critical areas where debris contact would occur, while maintaining a more compact profile in other areas. This localized extension provides effective debris protection while minimizing the overall area occupied by the protector.
Data Source
AI summary
A constant velocity joint assembly includes a constant velocity joint. The constant velocity joint assembly also includes a sealing boot in contact with the constant velocity joint. The constant velocity joint assembly further includes a boot protector disposed on a radially outer surface of a portion of the sealing boot. The constant velocity joint assembly yet further includes a first fastener coupled to the boot protector to secure the boot protector to the constant velocity joint.