Tripod Constant Velocity Joint Asymmetric Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing constant velocity joints, such as the tripod-type joint, face challenges in allowing large inclination angles and offsets between the center axes of driving and driven shafts while maintaining constant rotational speed, and can experience issues with 'three-point support' that lead to damage during assembly and operation.
Innovation Solution
A tripod-type constant velocity joint design featuring an intermediate member with inclined and swivable shaft end members, where the first and second outer rings have axially extending track grooves and protrusions that allow for angular displacement and offset, and are made of synthetic resin compositions to eliminate the need for lubricants and prevent adhesion, with anti-separation elements to facilitate easy maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the tripod member is inserted into the outer ring with aligned apexes, then assembly is simplified, but three-point support occurs causing damage to the apexes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces asymmetric positioning by providing a positioning protrusion on the tripod member that fits into a positioning groove on the outer ring. This asymmetric feature ensures proper alignment during assembly, preventing the three-point support condition that causes apex damage while maintaining ease of assembly through guided positioning.
2Force
If grease lubrication is used, then friction is reduced, but maintenance complexity increases and adhesion occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs self-lubricating materials for the protrusions and track grooves, eliminating the need for grease lubrication. The materials themselves provide lubrication through their inherent properties, reducing friction while avoiding the maintenance issues and adhesion problems associated with grease-based lubrication systems.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the joint allows large inclination angles, then versatility is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables dynamic adjustment of the tripod member relative to the outer ring through the positioning protrusion and groove mechanism. This allows the joint to accommodate large inclination angles and offsets between shafts while maintaining proper engagement, effectively decoupling the versatility for angular displacement from stringent manufacturing precision requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A tripod-type constant velocity joint includes an intermediate member, and first and second tripod members connected to the respective ends of the intermediate member. The intermediate member includes first and second outer rings. The first tripod member is formed with three protrusions, and the second tripod member is formed with three protrusions. The first outer ring is formed in its inner periphery with three axially extending first track grooves which are open at its axial end surface. The second outer ring is formed in its inner periphery with three axially extending second track grooves which are open at its axial end surface. The protrusions of the first tripod member are axially slidably received in the respective first track grooves. The protrusions of the second tripod member are axially slidably received in the respective second track grooves.