Joints and connections – Articulated members – Pivoted
Patent
1991-08-16
1992-05-26
Cuomo, Peter M.
Joints and connections
Articulated members
Pivoted
403133, 403137, 29898044, 29898047, F16C 1106
Patent
active
051161591
ABSTRACT:
A ball and socket joint assembly incorporates an internal preload whereby a relatiely constant torque may be realized over the useful life of the assembly. In a preferred form, the assembly includes a housing having a ball socket cavity, a ball, a pair of socket beraings supporting the ball, and a stud shaft integral with the ball. The housing defines an axis along which the socket bearings position and retain the ball for limited oscillatory movement within the housing. One socket bearing defines a ring through which the stud shaft extends for coupling to the tie rod end of a steering arm assembly. The other socket bearing is cup-shaped and formed of an extrudable plastic material. A radially oriented seat in the housing is adapted to support a conical disc spring washer interposed between the seat and the cup-shaped bearing. The conical washer is preferably a Belleville spring capable of providing a relatively constant force over a limited deflection range. Over the useful life of the joint assembly, the disc spring washer deflects while simultaneously maintaining a constant load on the ball and socket bearing components to eliminate lost motion along the axis due to wear.
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Desko Dana A.
Kern, Jr. Karle O.
Cuomo Peter M.
Dana Corporation
McDonald F. B.
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