Universal Joint Clip With Notched Section For Simplified Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing method for attaching and detaching universal joints from output shafts in vehicles is complicated due to the need to remove a fastening member, which is challenging at high speeds and requires a specific tightening torque.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle design featuring a universal joint with a spline hole on its inner periphery engaging with a spline section on the drive shaft, and a circular clip spanning the periphery, with an operating section facing a notched section, allowing for simplified mounting and removal by expanding the clip using a tool.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a fastening member is used to secure the universal joint to the output shaft, then the universal joint is firmly fixed, but the attachment and detachment operations become considerably complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening member is divided into a clip body and a separate operating section (such as a tab or loop). The clip body performs the fastening function by engaging with the universal joint and output shaft, while the operating section provides a convenient grip point for attachment and detachment operations. This segmentation allows the fastening function to be maintained while significantly improving operational ease.
Solution Approach 2:
The operating section acts as an intermediary element between the user's hand and the clip body. By providing a tab, loop, or other grip-friendly feature, it mediates the interaction between the user and the fastening mechanism, allowing for simple attachment and detachment without requiring direct manipulation of the clip body itself.
2Reliability
If a fastening member with predetermined tightening torque is used, then the universal joint is securely fastened, but the attachment and detachment operations require complex procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The operating function is extracted from the fastening member body and placed into a separate operating section. This allows the clip body to focus solely on providing secure fastening through its engagement structure, while the operating section handles all interaction with the user. The extraction of the operating function simplifies the overall operation while maintaining secure fastening.
Solution Approach 2:
The clip design allows for self-aligning and self-latching features where the clip body automatically positions itself during attachment and secures itself without requiring complex adjustment procedures. The operating section simply needs to be inserted or pulled, and the clip performs the fastening action automatically, reducing operational complexity while ensuring reliable fastening.
Data Source
AI summary
A rear wheel drive mechanism acting as a drive force transmission mechanism provided in a vehicle is provided with a spline section provided on an outer periphery of one end of a first drive shaft acting as an output shaft, a spline hole provided on an inner periphery of a tubular engaging section of a universal joint and engaging with the spline section, and a circular clip disposed spanning the inner periphery and the outer periphery. An operating section of the clip faces a notched section provided on the tubular engaging section. The notched section is provided on a tip of the tubular engaging section and opens with respect to an axial dimension of the first drive shaft. The drive mechanism so configured simplifies the operation of mounting or removing a universal joint onto an output shaft of a vehicle.