Two-Axis Swivel Joint Structure for Bind-Free Wide Rotation

Solution Overview

Problem

Universal joints with two hinges provide limited range of motion and introduce binding points, restricting rotation in certain applications.

Innovation Solution

A two-axis swivel joint design featuring a wheel member and a shoulder member that allow for over 180 degrees and up to 300 degrees of bind-free rotation about two axes, with optional stop mechanisms for selective positioning.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If universal joints with two hinges are used, then torque transmission and basic rotation are achieved, but range of motion is limited and binding points occur

Engineering Contradiction:

Improverange of motionVSAvoidbinding points in rotation

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The joint is divided into three separate hinge connections instead of two, with each hinge providing rotation about a specific axis. The first hinge allows rotation about the first axis, the second hinge about the second axis, and the third hinge about the third axis, creating independent rotational degrees of freedom that eliminate binding points while expanding total range of motion to over 300 degrees

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention adds a third rotational dimension/axis to the traditional two-hinge universal joint. By introducing the third hinge and third axis of rotation, the joint transitions from a two-degree-of-freedom system to a three-degree-of-freedom system, enabling motion in multiple dimensions without the binding constraints of the original design

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If two hinges connected in series are used, then rotation about two axes is enabled, but range of motion is less than required

Engineering Contradiction:

Improverange of motionVSAvoidnumber of hinge connections

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The joint is divided into three separate hinge connections instead of two, with each hinge providing rotation about a specific axis. The first hinge allows rotation about the first axis, the second hinge about the second axis, and the third hinge about the third axis, creating independent rotational degrees of freedom that eliminate binding points while expanding total range of motion to over 300 degrees

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention adds a third rotational dimension/axis to the traditional two-hinge universal joint. By introducing the third hinge and third axis of rotation, the joint transitions from a two-degree-of-freedom system to a three-degree-of-freedom system, enabling motion in multiple dimensions without the binding constraints of the original design

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS7850386B2Two-axis swivel joint

Publication Date: 2010.12.14 UNGER MARKETING INTERNATIONAL LLC

AI summary

A two-axis swivel joint having a wheel member and a shoulder member is provided. The wheel member is securable to a first implement so that the wheel member swivels about a first axis. The wheel member has a rim portion with a channel defined therein. The shoulder member is secured in the channel such that the shoulder member swivels with respect to the wheel member about a second axis.