Abstract: A system for negotiating a contract may include one or more computer assemblies configured to run a contract negotiation tool program. The contract negotiation tool program may include an analysis section including potential contract terms, and contract term data corresponding to the potential contract terms. The contract negotiation tool program may display the contract term data of selected potential contract terms in the analysis section. The displayed contract term data may include assessments of the selected potential contract terms, providing an indication of whether further negotiation is required.

Abstract: A method for rotatably balancing a driveshaft includes the initial step of using a conventional balancing apparatus is used to determined the size and location of the balance weights needed to properly balance the driveshaft. Next, an adhesive material is applied to either or both of the driveshaft and the balance weight. The balance weight is preferably formed having an inner surface that is curved to conform with the curvature of the outer surface of the driveshaft. The preferred balance weight is further formed having a relatively thin outer peripheral rim portion having a plurality of radially outwardly extending teeth formed thereon. The overall size of the balance weight may be varied to provide differing amounts of weight for facilitating the balancing process.

Abstract: A balance weight is secured to a driveshaft tube for rotatably balancing the driveshaft tube during use. The balance weight includes a first inner layer of material and a second outer layer of material that are secured together to form an integral unit. The first and second layers of material may be secured together in any desired manner, such as by adhesives, pressure bonding, tinning, and the like. The inner layer is preferably sufficiently flexible to bend with the driveshaft tube during use and is preferably formed from a material that does not react with either the material used to form the driveshaft tube, the material used to secure the inner layer to the driveshaft tube, or the environment in which the inner layer is used in such a manner as to reduce the ability of the balance weight to be retained on the driveshaft tube. The inner layer can be formed from a stainless steel alloy having a relatively small thickness that allows it to bend with the driveshaft tube during use.

Abstract: An end fitting for use in a vehicular drive shaft assembly includes a body having a cylindrical sleeve portion extending therefrom. The sleeve portion of the end fitting has a plurality of recessed areas formed therein which extend longitudinally from a first end of the sleeve portion to a second end thereof. The recessed areas may be defined by planar surfaces which intersect the sleeve portion of the end fitting at a slight angle relative to the axis of rotation thereof. Each of the recessed areas has a cross sectional shape defined by a radial depth and a chordal width. The cross sectional shapes of the recessed areas vary along the lengths thereof. Preferably, the radial depths and the chordal widths are at minimum values adjacent the first end of the sleeve portion of the end fitting and are at maximum values adjacent the second end of the sleeve portion.