Universal Joint Cross Seal Structure for Low-Friction Fixation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing universal joint seals face challenges in achieving efficient sealing while maintaining low friction and robust fixation, leading to noise and wear issues due to metal-to-metal contact and complex constructions.
Innovation Solution
A universal joint cross design featuring a seal with an elastomeric member and a first rigid part comprising arms connected by an intermediate section, where the rigid part is precisely positioned against the elastomeric member, forming a labyrinth seal and preventing direct contact with the trunnion, thereby reducing friction and wear.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a seal is designed to provide robust fixation between the rigid part and the elastomeric member, then fixation strength is improved, but friction and wear increase due to contact requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediate section with a specific profile that acts as a mediator between the rigid part and the elastomeric member. This intermediate section provides a contact surface that ensures robust fixation while distributing contact forces to minimize friction and wear on critical surfaces. The intermediate section's geometry is specifically designed to create effective contact zones that balance fixation strength with low friction operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The seal design applies local quality by creating different contact characteristics in different regions. The intermediate section has specific contact regions with the rigid part and elastomeric member that are optimized for fixation, while other regions maintain low friction. The projection geometry is locally optimized to provide sealing contact where needed while avoiding contact in regions where friction would be harmful.
2Reliability
If the seal structure is made complex to achieve both robust fixation and effective sealing, then sealing performance is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The seal is segmented into distinct functional parts: an elastomeric member for sealing, a rigid part for structural support and fixation, and an intermediate section for contact and positioning. Each segment performs a specific function, allowing the complex requirements of fixation and sealing to be met through modular design rather than a monolithic complex structure. This segmentation enables independent optimization of each component.
Solution Approach 2:
The seal employs composite construction by combining different materials with complementary properties: an elastomeric member for flexibility and sealing, a rigid part (likely metal) for strength and fixation, and an intermediate section that bridges these materials. This composite approach achieves both robust fixation and effective sealing without requiring overly complex geometries in single materials.
Data Source
AI summary
A universal joint cross includes a trunnion, a cup, rolling elements between the cup and the trunnion, and a seal. The seal seals a seals a space between the cup and the trunnion and includes an elastomeric member, wherein a first rigid part of the seal has, in an axial section, a first arm and at least one second arm, which are connected by an intermediate section of the first rigid part. The first arm and the second arm extend from the intermediate section toward the rolling elements and the second arm abuts against the trunnion. The intermediate section includes a first region, which contacts at least one projection of a face surface of the elastomeric member or which provides a gap seal or a labyrinth seal with the at least one projection, and at least a second region, which contacts the face surface of the elastomeric member.