Abstract: A universal joint assembled to a drill string transfers torque between two components where rotation of the components may not be completely aligned. The universal joint includes upper and lower longitudinal members each connected to opposite sides of a bearing element. The elements are connected to the bearing element at spaced radial positions. As the joint rotates the bearing element flexes between the connections to accommodate misalignment of the elements. Axial force can be transferred through the bearing element as well as torque.

Abstract: A universal joint for use in a downhole drill string includes a planetary gear to convert eccentric rotation in the drill string to axial rotation.

Abstract: A universal joint assembled to a drill string transfers torque and axial force between two components along a longitudinal axis where the shafts of the components are not completely aligned. The universal joint includes axially spaced members joined by transversely spaced links. As the joint rotates the links move to accommodate misalignment between the drill string components and the connected members.

Abstract: A universal joint assembled to a drill string transfers torque and axial force between two components where the shafts of the components are not completely aligned. The universal joint includes end members connected to opposite ends of a cable for connecting to components of the drill string. As the joint rotates the cable flexes to accommodate misalignment between the connected drill string components.

Abstract: A universal joint assembled in a drill string transfers torque between two components where the shafts of the components are not completely aligned. The universal joint includes two members each with pin connections on one end and axially extending arms on the other end. The axially extending arms intermesh when the members are assembled defining a closed cavity between the arms. The cavity retains a ball bearing held between two seats. The universal joint when assembled to portions of the drill string at the pins on each end transfer torque by intermeshing of the teeth. Axial force is transferred through the seats holding the ball bearing.

Abstract: A universal joint assembled in a drill string transfers torque between two components where the shafts of the components are not completely aligned. The universal joint includes two members each with pin connections on one end and axially extending arms on the other end. The axially extending arms intermesh when the members are assembled defining a closed cavity between the arms. The cavity retains a ball bearing held between two seats. The universal joint when assembled to portions of the drill string at the pins on each end transfer torque by intermeshing of the teeth. Axial force is transferred through the seats holding the ball bearing.

Abstract: A universal joint assembled in a drill string transfers torque between two components where rotation of the components may not be completely aligned. The universal joint includes upper and lower members with radial teeth connected by a serpentine retainer. As the joint rotates the members can pivot within the confines of the serpentine retainer to accommodate misalignment of the components. Axial force can be transferred through a bearing member between the members.

Abstract: A universal joint assembled to a drill string transfers torque and axial force between two components along a longitudinal axis where the shafts of the components are not completely aligned. The universal joint includes axially spaced members joined by transversely spaced links. As the joint rotates the links move to accommodate misalignment between the drill string components and the connected members.

Abstract: A universal joint for use in a downhole drill string includes a planetary gear to convert eccentric rotation in the drill string to axial rotation.

Abstract: A universal joint assembled to a drill string transfers torque and axial force between two components where the shafts of the components are not completely aligned. The universal joint includes end members connected to opposite ends of a cable for connecting to components of the drill string. As the joint rotates the cable flexes to accommodate misalignment between the connected drill string components.

Abstract: A universal joint assembled to a drill string transfers torque between two components where rotation of the components may not be completely aligned. The universal joint includes upper and lower longitudinal members each connected to opposite sides of a bearing element. The elements are connected to the bearing element at spaced radial positions. As the joint rotates the bearing element flexes between the connections to accommodate misalignment of the elements. Axial force can be transferred through the bearing element as well as torque.

Abstract: A universal joint assembled in a drill string transfers torque between two components where the shafts of the components are not completely aligned. The universal joint includes two members each with pin connections on one end and axially extending arms on the other end. The axially extending arms intermesh when the members are assembled defining a closed cavity between the arms. The cavity retains a ball bearing held between two seats. The universal joint when assembled to portions of the drill string at the pins on each end transfer torque by intermeshing of the teeth. Axial force is transferred through the seats holding the ball bearing.