Abstract: A constant velocity universal joint comprises an outer joint element having a spherical cavity therein and an inner joint element positioned within the spherical cavity. A plurality of torque transmitting balls are positioned within pairs of opposed grooves formed in the opposing spherical surfaces of the inner and outer joint elements. Ball retaining means are disposed between the joint elements. The ball retaining means has an inner spherical surface co-acting with the outer spherical surface of the inner joint member and an outer spherical surface co-acting with the spherical surface of the cavity of the outer joint element. The number of grooves in each joint element is divisible by two but is at least four and the center line of each groove lies in a plane spaced from the axis of rotation of the joint element and parallel thereto.

Abstract: A variable transmission ratio brake actuating device comprises a brake lever pivotally mounted on a frame. The frame and brake lever are each provided with a guide slot or groove which extend toward the pivot mount and intersect each other. A connector link to transmit force to a brake is always positioned at the point of intersection of the brake lever and frame guides. Pivoting of the brake lever guides the link at a distance relative to the pivot mount which decreases from the release position toward the braking position.

Abstract: A universal joint has an outer joint member with circular grooves in the inner surface of a spherical cavity therein and an inner joint member is positioned within the cavity. The outer surface of the inner joint member is also provided with grooves and torque transmitting balls are received in corresponding grooves of the outer and inner joint members. The centerlines of the two outer joint member circular grooves are located in planes which are parallel with each other and parallel to the axis of the outer joint member and these planes are positioned equidistantly on opposite sides of the rotary axis. The inner joint member has partially circular or arcuate grooves arranged in pairs such that their centerlines extend in planes perpendicular to the planes of the outer joint member grooves.