Abstract: A socket adapter for limiting torque delivered from a tool to a socket piece. The socket adapter includes a female receiver that is coupleable to and driven by the tool, and a male drive that is coupled to and driven by the female receiver for transferring torque to the socket piece. The socket adapter further includes a clutch mechanism having a first clutch surface, a second clutch surface that engages the first clutch surface, and an adjustment mechanism for adjusting a clamping force between the first clutch surface and the second clutch surface. The second clutch surface slides relative to the first clutch surface when a reaction torque exerted on the clutch mechanism exceeds a predetermined torque limit.

Abstract: A power tool includes a motor including a rotation shaft; an output shaft to which a cutting blade is attachable; a belt for transmitting a rotational force of the rotation shaft to the output shaft; an intermediate shaft positioned between the rotation shaft and the output shaft on a transmission path of the rotational force; a plurality of pulleys including a first pulley provided on the rotation shaft and rotatable integrally with the rotation shaft and a second pulley through which the intermediate shaft is inserted and having a diameter greater than that of the first pulley, the first pulley and the second pulley supporting the belt and being rotatable in accordance with rotation of the rotation shaft; and a transmission restricting part provided on a transmission path for transmitting rotation of the second pulley to the cutting blade and configured to interrupt or limit transmission of a rotational force.

Abstract: Methods and devices for monitoring a drive train for a wind turbine utilize an elastic coupling. The drive train comprises a rotor shaft configured to be driven by a rotor about a main axis, a support structure including a bearing housing surrounding at least one bearing and supporting the rotor shaft for rotation about the main axis to constrain other movements of the rotor shaft. A gearbox input shaft and housing supports the gearbox input shaft for rotation while constraining other movements of the gearbox input shaft. The gearbox input shaft is coupled to the rotor shaft by an elastic coupling that includes a first coupling part rigidly connected with the rotor shaft, a second coupling part rigidly connected with the gearbox input shaft, and elastic elements positioned between the first and the second coupling part to provide a single joint between the rotor shaft and the gearbox input shaft.

Abstract: Torque-limiting mechanisms comprising an upper shank component with a torque-limiting interface, a lower shank component with a torque-limiting interface, and a biasing element. Torque-limiting interfaces having a plurality of undulations arranged around an axial bore or drive socket and separated by a plurality of transition regions, with each undulation having an upslope, a peak, and a downslope. The torque-limiting interfaces are configured to engage and disengage to provide torque transmission with predetermined torque limits at various rotational speeds and for amounts of actuations while remaining within a specified operational range.

Abstract: A clutch includes a rotatable inputting member, a rotatable outputting member, a stationary member, and a contact member. The outputting member includes an output contact portion. The contact member is positioned between the outputting member and the stationary member and includes an arcuate first contact surface and a second contact surface. When the input torque for rotating the inputting member is inputted, the outputting member and the contact member rotate in contact with the inputting member. When a reverse input torque for rotating the outputting member is inputted, the outputting member is spaced from the inputting member, and the output contact portion of the outputting member urges the first contact surface against the stationary member by urging the second contact surface of the contact member thereby to prevent rotation of the outputting member.

Abstract: In one aspect, a surgical driver is provided that includes a driver shaft, a handle rotatably connected to the driver shaft, and a resilient, elongate pin extending transverse to the driver shaft. The pin is operably engaged with the driver shaft and the handle so that torque applied to the handle causes turning of the driver shaft. The pin is configured to deflect to limit the torque applied to the driver shaft.

Abstract: A coupling has an input-side coupling part (1) and an output-side coupling part (2), which are connected to each other in a torque-transmitting manner in such a way that the coupling parts can be moved to a limited extent. The output-side coupling part (2) has a rod-shaped body (10) rigidly connected to the output-side coupling part, which rod-shaped body extends in the direction of the axis of rotation (9) of the coupling and is surrounded by a hollow body (5) rigidly connected to the other coupling part (1). Sensor elements (11, 12) are provided, by which the radial distance between the rod-shaped body (10) and the hollow body (5) is detected during the rotation of the coupling.

Abstract: A gear mechanism may include a first gear, a second gear which is coaxially disposed with the first gear and is provided with a recessed part on an end face of a first gear side, and a torque limiter provided between the first gear and the second gear. The torque limiter includes inner teeth provided on a ring-shaped inner peripheral face of the recessed part, and a torque limiter member provided with an engaging claw capable of engaging with the inner teeth and integrally rotating with the first gear in the recessed part. The second gear is an inclined teeth gear whose teeth bottoms are inclined with respect to an axial line direction and teeth bottoms of the inner teeth are extended in parallel with the axial line direction.

Abstract: A torque transmission device comprising a torque converter disposed in a drive train of a motor vehicle, in particular a hydrodynamic torque converter or a fluid clutch, wherein the converter or the fluid clutch comprises a turbine shell and a pump shell which can be coupled through a pump clutch and at least one pump damper with a converter cover, and comprising at least one converter damper and at least one converter lock up clutch.

Abstract: In order to eliminate or at least to reduce a possible unbalance of the propulsive system, counterweights are brought in locations that are provided on the hub envelope, near the ends of the latter and away from the planes of the propellers. More particularly, the counterweights are provided as discrete elements located in two planes spaced from the propellers and orthogonal to an outer surface of the hub envelopes, or are provided as a non-uniform mass ring.

Abstract: A system for attaching a device to a rotating shaft is provided herein. The system may include one or more intermediate members positioned about the device. The system also may include a restraining strap configured to apply a restraining force to at least one of the one or more intermediate members to secure the one or more intermediate members to the rotating shaft. The one or more intermediate members may be configured to at least partially avert and/or disperse the restraining force of the restraining strap away from the device.

Abstract: A system to measure the installation torque of a screw pile comprises machinery suitable to drive the screw pile into the ground, said machinery further comprising a rotary drive suspended by means of a universal joint-type coupler. A load pin, having at least one sensor, is mounted through the universal joint-type coupler as a pivot pin and is oriented within the universal joint-type coupler so that at least some of the installation torque is transmitted through said load pin and is measurable by said at least one sensor. Preferably, the load pin further comprises a pair of bores and a plurality of sensors are provided and mounted within the bores. More preferably, a differential bridge network is used to obtain a measurable signal from the plurality of sensors.

Abstract: Structure of a cross universal joint is achieved in which the fact that an excessive torque was applied to a universal joint due to a collision accident or mishandling can be easily determined afterwards. Protrusions 20, which are straight lines as seen from the outside surface sides of linking arm sections 15c of a yoke 12c, are formed on the outside surfaces of the linking arm sections 15c. When an excessive torque acts and the linking arm sections 15c are plastically deformed, the protrusions 20 change from a straight line to a non-straight line. From this change it is possible to easily confirm that an excessive torque has been applied to a cross universal joint that includes this yoke 12c. Moreover, when the space between the inside surfaces of the linking arm sections 15c is taken to be D, and the length in the axial direction of the linking arm sections 15c is taken to be L, the dimensions of the parts of the yoke 12c are regulated so that the relation 3<L/D?4 is satisfied.

Abstract: A system for attaching a device to a rotating shaft is provided herein. The system may include one or more intermediate members positioned about the device. The system also may include a restraining strap configured to apply a restraining force to at least one of the one or more intermediate members to secure the one or more intermediate members to the rotating shaft. The one or more intermediate members may be configured to at least partially avert and/or disperse the restraining force of the restraining strap away from the device.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a fan, to a method, and to a device for assembling the fan. The fan has an axis of rotation, which is connected to a dog, wherein the dog is connected to a fan wheel, wherein the dog, in a first number of contact surfaces, is in contact with additional contact surfaces of the fan wheel, wherein the dog and/or the fan wheel have more than the first number of contact surfaces and/or additional contact surfaces, wherein at least two contact surfaces have different height positions with respect to a central axis of the dog and/or the fan wheel.

Abstract: A torque connector assembly includes an outer tube having a first threaded portion, a first hole and multiple windows. Each window has first and second scales formed on its two sides. An inner tube has a second threaded portion, a second hole and an index line. The first and second threaded portions are threadedly connected to each other. The index line is located corresponding to the windows. A first connector has a first engaging end and a second engaging end. A second connector has a first matching portion and a second mounting portion which is mounted to the second engaging end. A third connector has a second matching portion which is connected with the first matching portion. The third connector has a third mounting portion which extends from the second hole. The resilient member is biased between the second connector and the outer tube.

Abstract: A steering shaft which is provided with a misassembly prevention structure for preventing misassembly when a shaft is inserted into and assembled with a yoke.

Abstract: A compact disc spring torque limiting clutch has an input hub and an output hub having a friction pack that is removable from the input hub as an entire unit to facilitate servicing and repair. The force actuator of the torque limiting clutch is a Belleville spring or machined disc spring that is operatively interposed between the input hub and the friction pack. The deflection of the Belleville spring during the useful life of the friction pack is within the flat portion of the force vs. deflection curve and establishes a characteristic breakaway torque for the torque limiting clutch. The use of a Belleville spring significantly reduces the axial dimension of the torque limiting clutch, adapting it for use in applications where space is at a premium.

Abstract: A torque connector assembly includes an outer tube having a first threaded portion, a first hole and multiple windows. Each window has first and second scales formed on its two sides. An inner tube has a second threaded portion, a second hole and an index line. The first and second threaded portions are threadedly connected to each other. The index line is located corresponding to the windows. A first connector has a first engaging end and a second engaging end. A second connector has a first matching portion and a second mounting portion which is mounted to the second engaging end. A third connector has a second matching portion which is connected with the first matching portion. The third connector has a third mounting portion which extends from the second hole. The resilient member is biased between the second connector and the outer tube.

Abstract: A flexible wire assembly of a compact structure that can transmit the torque for a high speed rotation even in a bent condition is provided. The flexible wire assembly includes a flexible outer tube, in which a flexible inner wire having its opposite ends defining rotation input and output ends, respectively, is rotatably supported by means of a plurality of rolling bearings. Spring elements are employed for applying preloads to those rolling bearings. The use is also made of a speed reducing mechanism for reducing in speed and outputting rotation of the inner wire. The spring elements include inner ring spring elements and outer ring spring elements that are alternately arranged over the length of the inner wire.

Abstract: According to one aspect of the invention, a method for calibrating a torque measurement for a rotatable object is disclosed, wherein the method includes coupling the rotatable object to a structure, the structure including a member extending along a length of a surface of the rotatable object, coupling the rotatable object to an adapter and applying a known torque to the rotatable object via the adapter. The method also includes measuring a first rotational displacement via a first sensor coupled to the member at a first axial location of the rotatable object, measuring a second rotational displacement via a second sensor coupled to the member at a second axial location of the rotatable object and determining first and second angular displacements of the rotatable object based on the first and second rotational displacements.

Abstract: A rotary connector, comprises an annular rotary body inserted outside a steering shaft and integrally rotated with a steering wheel, a rotator of a steering angle sensor inserted outside the steering shaft; and a tubular joint inserted outside the steering shaft and connecting the rotary body to the rotator; wherein the rotary body and the joint are connected together by a first universal joint, and the joint and the rotator are connected together by a second universal joint.

Abstract: A rotor shaft (200) for a magnetic bearing device (1) is disclosed. The shaft comprises an inner portion on whose periphery a plurality of targets (240, 260, 280) separated by spacers (250, 270) are mounted. This is achieved exerting an axial pressing force (F, F?) to the peripheral parts, rather than applying a radial press fit. In this manner, a simplified construction, a higher stiffness and a higher stability at high rotational speed are achieved. Further disclosed is a rotor having a thrust disk (220) whose diameter decreases towards the periphery. This allows to use a larger thrust disk at a given rotational speed.

Abstract: A linkage generally consisting of a first shaft having a first connecting component provided with an annular in a face thereof, disposed coaxially with such first shaft; a second shaft having a second connecting component provided with an annular disposed axially with the second shaft inserted in the annular recess of the first component; and a set of circumferentially spaced threaded fasteners securing such first and second components together, wherein the first and second components are angularly displaced relative to a common axis thereof so that a residual imbalance of one of such components offsets a residual imbalance of the other of such components.

Abstract: A rotary connector, comprises an annular rotary body inserted outside a steering shaft and integrally rotated with a steering wheel, a rotator of a steering angle sensor inserted outside the steering shaft; and a tubular joint inserted outside the steering shaft and connecting the rotary body to the rotator; wherein the rotary body and the joint are connected together by a first universal joint, and the joint and the rotator are connected together by a second universal joint.

Abstract: A diaphragm pump and a method for aligning thereof, the pump including an electric motor, a motor shaft, driven by the electric motor for rotation about an electric motor shaft axis, an eccentric drive, driven by the electric motor, via the motor shaft, to provide reciprocal driving along a pump driving axis, the eccentric drive including an eccentric drive shaft rotating about an eccentric drive shaft axis, the eccentric drive shaft axis being coaxial with the electric motor shaft axis, a non-rigid coupling interconnecting the motor shaft and the eccentric drive shaft and a diaphragm pumping assembly having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet communicating with a pumping chamber, the pumping chamber having a diaphragm arranged to be reciprocally driven about the pump driving axis.

Abstract: To prevent the number of parts from being increased due to a trigger plate in a damper with trigger plate, a damper which is formed by interposing a sleeve and an elastic body between a hub fitted to a rotating shaft and an annular mass body disposed at the outer peripheral side of the hub, is characterized in that a magnetized trigger plate is integrally fitted, at specified pitch in the circular direction, to one end part of the sleeve, and the sleeve is fitted to the outer peripheral side of the hub or the inner peripheral side of the annular mass body.

Abstract: An acoustic emission measuring device in which a piezoelectric element (63) used as an AE sensor is secured to the inner ring (62) of a ball bearing (61) fixedly fitted onto a rotating shaft (60). The axial end face of a roughly tire-shaped case (65), which is capable of rotating in synchronism with the inner ring (62) and storing a first coil in which a current flows from the piezoelectric element (63), is secured to the inner ring (62). The axial end face of a roughly tire-shaped case (66) for storing a second coil is secured to an outer ring (64). The first coil and the second coil are oppositely disposed radially outside of the rotating shaft (60) so that the first coil and the second coil can face each other in the radial direction.

Abstract: A bent portion is protrusively formed at one side of each hole of a crank position sensor-wheel plate that is coupled to the rim of a drive plate, thereby facilitating the observation of misalignment in rotational positions of the drive plate and front cover as well as the alignment of bolt coupling holes of the drive plate and bolt coupling holes of the front cover during the attachment of the drive plate to the front cover.

Abstract: A flange member is disclosed for a balance assembly that includes a first rotating element coupled to a second rotating element. The flange member includes a main body exhibiting a predetermined imbalance vector when rotated about an axis of rotation. The flange member also includes a plurality of fastener apertures for attaching one of the first and second rotation elements to the main body. Angular spacing between each of the fastener apertures is substantially equal but for one fastener aperture, such that angular spacing is greater to one side of the one fastener aperture, and such that angular spacing is less to another side of the one fastener aperture.

Abstract: A first mark for indicating the direction of the rotational unbalance of a propeller shaft is provided on the propeller shaft while a second mark for indicating the direction of the rotational unbalance of a companion flange is provided on the companion flange, which is to be connected to the propeller shaft at a rotation-transmitting device. One of the directions of the rotational unbalances indicated by the first mark and the second mark is set as a direction along which the rotating mass becomes larger while the other is set as a direction along which the rotating mass becomes smaller, and one of the first mark and the second mark is provided over an angular region with a predetermined angle around an axis.

Abstract: An elastic coupling is provided and has first and second coupling parts that are rotatable relative to one another and engage one another via elastomeric elements. A coupling gap remains between the coupling parts. A marking is disposed on the outer edge of one of the coupling parts, and an indicator plate is disposed on the outer edge of the other of the coupling parts. The marking and indicator plate serve for a determination of a relative angle of torque of the coupling parts, wherein the marking and indicator plate are disposed on the coupling parts such that they are centered relative to one another. The marking and indicator plate abut the coupling gap.

Abstract: A torque transfer assembly having a first rotatable element with a first flange, a second rotatable element with a second flange, and an alignment assembly establishing a single coupled orientation for the first and second rotatable elements. First and second imbalance vectors, corresponding to the first and second rotatable elements respectively, each include a magnitude and direction relative to the reference axis which are in balancing alignment when the rotatable elements are in the coupled orientation.

Abstract: A torsion shaft for a vehicle includes an elongated inner shaft, and an outer sleeve attached to the inner shaft which fits over the inner shaft. A torsion cap is further attached to the inner shaft and outer sleeve. Another embodiment of the present invention includes an elongated inner shaft and an outer casing attached to the inner shaft which fits over the inner shaft. A torsion cap is further attached to the inner shaft and outer sleeve. A method for making a torsion shaft is also provided. An inner shaft and a magnetized outer sleeve are provided. The inner shaft is inserted into the outer sleeve, and the two are joined together.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for detecting the operating condition of a universal joint in a driveline assembly utilizes a pressure relief valve that is supported by a universal joint cross member. The cross member includes a central body portion with a plurality of radially extending trunnions. A first driveline component supports a first yoke member and a second driveline component supports a second yoke member. Each yoke member cooperates with two opposing trunnions to interconnect the first and second driveline components. An internal lubrication channel is formed within the cross member and is in fluid communication with each trunnion. Seal assemblies are installed within cups mounted to each trunnion member to seal the lubricating fluid within the cross member. The universal joint is operating properly when lubricating fluid that is injected through an external lubrication fitting during service operations, exits via the pressure relief valve.

Abstract: A torque transfer assembly having a first rotatable element with a first flange, a second rotatable element with a second flange, and an alignment assembly establishing a single coupled orientation for the first and second rotatable elements. The invention is further directed to a method for balancing a drive assembly having a first rotatable element, a second rotatable element, and an alignment assembly establishing a coupled orientation for the first and second rotatable elements relative to a reference axis. The method includes the steps of establishing a first imbalance vector for the first rotatable element, establishing a second imbalance vector for the second rotatable element, and coupling the first and second rotatable elements in the coupled orientation. The first and second imbalance vectors each include a magnitude and direction relative to the reference axis which are in balancing alignment when the rotatable elements are in the coupled orientation.

Abstract: An elastic coupling is provided and has first and second coupling parts that are rotatable relative to one another and engage one another via elastomeric elements. A coupling gap remains between the coupling parts. A marking is disposed on the outer edge of one of the coupling parts, and an indicator plate is disposed on the outer edge of the other of the coupling parts. The marking and indicator plate serve for a determination of a relative angle of torque of the coupling parts, wherein the marking and indicator plate are disposed on the coupling parts such that they are centered relative to one another. The marking and indicator plate abut the coupling gap.

Abstract: A sensor system includes a housing that houses a thermally sensitive sensor, a transmitter portion and a power source. Preferably, the sensor device is encapsulated to protect the components from the environment. The transmitter generates a signal in response to the sensor detecting a temperature in a vehicle component that exceeds a predetermined temperature. A receiver is located remotely from the transmitter to receive the signal. The power supply generates electricity when the temperature of the vehicle component achieves an initial threshold temperature that is less than the predetermined temperature.

Abstract: A power transmission device comprises a propeller shaft (PS) and a rear axle device (AR) that is linked and transmits rotational drive force. In the structure linking the propeller shaft and the rear axle device, a first mark indicating the direction of rotational imbalance in the propeller shaft is provided to the propeller shaft, a second mark is provided to a companion flange (30) linked to the propeller shaft in the rotation transmission device, for indicating the direction of rotational imbalance in the companion flange (30), and the propeller shaft and the companion flange are linked on the basis of the first and second marks.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a gear wear indicator. The gear wear indicator comprises at least one indicator tooth where the indicator tooth comprises a cavity. An indicator element is located within the cavity and is visually altered when the cavity is ruptured. A viewing port is provided for viewing the indicator element in the cavity.

Abstract: A lubrication system designed particularly for small universal joints is provided. It includes a central distribution insert with a system of vertical and transverse passage which enable all four bearing cups and bearings to be sequentially lubricated from a single source. When all four are completely lubricated, lubricant appears at the top of the central distribution insert to assure that all cups have been fully lubricated. Preferably, when the lubricant reaches the distribution insert after the last trunnion, it is directed to a fitting in the distribution insert which is connected via a hose or the like to a container for collecting any excess lubricant. As a result, the uncontrolled discharge of the lubricant into the environment is avoided. The passages in the insert are positioned such that the insert can be made from one two-part mold without any mold inserts being required.

Abstract: An overload clutch has a driving and a driven coupling body (1.2), axially oriented teeth (2a) and radially oriented teeth (15a), torque-transmitting bodies (10) which mesh with the teeth (2a, 15a), a thrust collar (3) for holding the torque-transmitting bodies (10) emmeshed with the teeth (2a, 15a), a spring arrangement (11) for stressing the thrust collar (3) in the meshing direction of the torque-transmitting bodies (10), as well as an adjusting nut (5) for adjusting the spring arrangement (11). In order to avoid difficulties in handling and to increase operational safety, the adjustment path of the adjusting nut (5) is delimited towards and away from the spring arrangement (11) by stops (1b and 13) and the length of the adjusting nut (5) is adapted to the stops.

Abstract: An end of life indicator for a universal joint comprises an indicator member that monitors the temperature of the cross member of the universal joint. As the universal joint approaches the end of its life, the cross member exceeds expected temperatures as the bearings begin to wear. At a temperature above the typical operational temperature expected with a properly functioning universal joint, but below the temperature wherein the universal joint could be damaged or seize, a portion of the temperature indicator melts allowing the indicator to move to the actuated position. An operator will be able to visually identify the universal joint as approaching the end of its life. In one preferred embodiment, the indicator includes a plug at a position spaced forwardly of the indicator piston, with the plug holding the piston at the non-actuated position. When the plug melts, the indicator is spring biased to an outwardly actuated position where the operator will be able to visually identify an actuated indicator.

Abstract: A synchronous motor/generator is modified by mounting the conventional rotor on a sleeve that rotates freely on the main shaft rather than being fixedly mounted on the shaft. Limits to this rotation are incorporated in the design such that the maximum angular rotation of the rotor on the shaft equals half the stator advance that occurs during a complete full cycle of the AC stator winding voltage. In addition to smoothing transients, this configuration permits the machine to smoothly drop into the correct stator/rotor flux phase when it changes from a motor to a generator, and back into the correct phase for a motor, when the AC power is interrupted, and subsequently resumes, resulting in dropping a single cycle.

Abstract: A fixture for identifying the phase angle relationships between two universal joints secured to the ends of a steering shaft assembly includes first and second universal joint assemblies which are connected together by a shaft assembly. The shaft assembly includes a male splitted member which is secured to a first inboard yoke of the first universal joint assembly. The male splined member extends within and cooperates with a female splined member of the shaft assembly. The shaft assembly also includes a hollow cylindrical extension member having a first end which is secured to a second inboard yoke of the second universal joint assembly. The extension member has a second end which is journalled on a reduced diameter end portion of the female splined member. Thus, the extension member and the second universal joint can be rotated relative to the female splined member and the first universal joint assembly.

Abstract: A tensioning device for imparting torsional bias to a shaft. The tensioning device includes a coupling member of resilient material having a first end and a second end. The first end of the coupling member is connected to the shaft for rotation therewith. A driven member is connected to the second end of the coupling member such that the driven member is relatively rotatable with respect to the shaft. A drive member is associated with the driven member for selectively rotating the driven member to any of a number of infinitely variable positions. The tensioning device is effective to rotate the shaft to a desired position and to store torsional force in the coupling member when the second end of the coupling member is rotated with respect to the first end of the coupling member. The tensioning device includes a torsion indicating member for indicating the amount of torsional force being applied to the shaft by the coupling member.

Abstract: The device engages the four wheel drive transmission of a vehicle which comprises two transmission shafts for the rear wheels and the front wheels, a clutch installed along a front shaft and adapted, if engaged, to couple the shafts for rotation together, and a drive transmission geometry such that mechanically, with the clutch engaged, the mechanical transmission causes the front wheels to be driven slightly faster than the rear wheels. The device includes two coupling halves adapted to connect two portions of the front shaft mechanically with the possibility of relative rotation, an element adapted to translate between two end positions corresponding to positive and negative relative rotation between the coupling halves, a sensor for detecting the movement of the element, and an electric central control unit to which the sensor is connected and adapted to control engagement or disengagement of the clutch automatically.

Abstract: A system for damping relative rotation between two axially driven shafts (30) rotating in the same direction and for indicating failure of one of the shafts is disclosed. The system includes a coupling mechanism (34), coupling the driven shafts together to transmit torque from one of the shafts to the other of the shafts upon a predetermined relative angular rotation between the two shafts and providing a free zone of relative rotation between the shafts without transmitting torque between the shafts when the shafts have moved less than a predetermined angular rotation with respect to each other within the free zone of rotation. A mechanism (32) is provided which is coupled to the shafts for producing movement of a movable member (40) which is directly proportional to the degree of relative rotation between the shafts (30) during relative rotation between the shafts less than the predetermined relative angular rotation within the free zone of rotation.

Abstract: An improved visual and tactile indicator (30) for indicating the status of a connection between a shaft (14) and a constant speed drive transmission (22) by a coupling mechanism (20) is disclosed. The invention utilizes a first movable member (32) which is movable along a longitudinal axis between first and second positions, the first position indicating that the shaft is connected to the rotary source of power and the second position indicating that the shaft is not connected to the rotary source of power and a second movable member (34) which is movable along a longitudinal axis between first and second positions, the second member being adjacent to the first member with the longitudinal axes being parallel. A locking mechanism (36) locks the first and second movable members longitudinally with respect to each other when the input shaft is coupled to the constant speed drive transmission by the coupling mechanism.

Abstract: A ball cage for a helical ballspline of a mechanical movement device comprises a cage in the form of a tubular sleeve adapted to be arranged between a helically threaded inner member and a complimentary helically threaded outer member of the helical ballspline. The inner and outer members are displaceable relative to one another along a helical path formed by the threads thereof. The tubular sleeve of the ball cage includes a plurality of ball pockets formed therein for accommodating thrust transmitting balls of the ballspline arranged in the helical path.