Constant Velocity Joint Stopper for Gas Venting and Angle Limiting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing constant velocity joint assemblies lack robust venting capabilities and can be damaged when exceeding their maximum articulation angle, leading to potential damage and ineffective gas venting.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates an outer and inner race with precision-machined tracks, a cage with torque transferring elements, a drive sleeve, and a stopper portion that reduces in thickness, allowing for effective venting of pressurized gases and limiting the articulation angle to prevent damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If existing constant velocity joint assemblies are used, then the assembly structure is simple, but the venting capability of pressurized gases is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The venting system is segmented into multiple components: vent holes in the outer race, a dedicated stopper portion with venting function, and integration with the cage structure. This segmentation allows each component to contribute to venting while maintaining overall structural simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The stopper portion serves multiple functions: it limits the articulation angle, provides structural support, and enables venting of pressurized gases through integrated vent holes. This multi-functionality improves venting capability without adding separate dedicated venting components that would complicate the assembly
2Adaptability or versatility
If the articulation angle is not limited, then the assembly has greater operational flexibility, but the assembly can be damaged when taken beyond maximum articulation angle
Solution Approach 1:
The stopper portion is pre-positioned to contact the cage at the maximum articulation angle, creating a preliminary mechanical barrier that prevents the assembly from being taken beyond its safe operating range. This preliminary anti-action protects the assembly from damage before excessive articulation can occur
Solution Approach 2:
The stopper portion acts as an intermediary element between the drive sleeve and the cage, mediating the articulation motion by providing controlled contact at the maximum angle. This intermediary mechanism allows full operational flexibility within limits while preventing damage through controlled mechanical interaction
Data Source
AI summary
A constant velocity joint assembly (20) includes an outer race (22) having a plurality of outer tracks (42) formed in an inner surface thereof and an inner race having a plurality of inner tracks (54) formed in an outer surface thereof. A cage (26) is disposed between the inner race and the outer race. A plurality of torque transferring elements (28) are disposed in the cage. Each torque transferring element contacts one of the outer tracks of the plurality of outer tracks and one of the inner tracks of the plurality of inner tracks. A drive sleeve (30) is separated from the plurality of torque transferring elements by the inner race. Also, the drive sleeve is in driving engagement with the inner race. A stopper portion (74) is attached to the drive sleeve. The stopper portion comprising a portion that reduces in thickness toward an outer end thereof.