Universal Joint Nested Rotating Members Volume Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional universal joints occupy a large space due to the configuration of their rotating members, which limits their compactness and efficiency in applications requiring dual-axis rotation.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a first rotating member inserted into a connecting member, which is then sleeved by a second rotating member, allowing for dual-axis rotation while reducing the overall length and volume through the use of spline shafts and connecting assemblies that facilitate rotation along perpendicular axes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the two rotating members extend from opposite sides of the two pivoting members, then the universal joint achieves dual-axis rotation functionality, but the overall space occupied increases
Solution Approach 1:
The first rotating member is inserted into the connecting member, and the second rotating member is sleeved on the connecting member, creating a nested configuration where rotating members are contained within the connecting member rather than extending outward, thereby reducing the overall volume while maintaining dual-axis rotation capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent repositions the rotating members from an external extension configuration to an internal nested configuration along the longitudinal axis, utilizing the internal dimensional space of the connecting member to house the rotating members, thus reducing the external footprint while preserving functional dimensions
Data Source
AI summary
A universal joint includes a first rotating member, an annular connecting member, a pair of first connecting assemblies, a second rotating member, and a pair of second connecting assemblies. The annular connecting member is rotatably sleeved on the first rotating member, the connecting member defines a pair of first connecting holes at opposite sides and a pair of second connecting holes at opposite sides. The pair of first connecting assemblies respectively extends into the pair of first connecting holes to rotatably connect the first rotating member to the connecting member. The second rotating member is rotatably sleeved on the connecting member. The pair of second connecting assemblies respectively extends into the pair of second connecting holes to rotatably connect the second rotating member to the connecting member.