For Coupling Having Torque Transmitted Via A Ball Patents (Class 464/15)
  • Patent number: 11499666
    Abstract: Embodiments described herein relate to a precision dynamic leveling mechanism for repeatedly positioning the pedestal within a process. The precision dynamic leveling mechanism includes bearing assemblies. Bearing assemblies having inner races forced against a pedestal assembly carrier and outer races forced against a guide adaptor provide nominal clearance between the inner races and outer races to allow the inner races and the outer races to slide on each other with minimal or no radial motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2022
    Assignee: Applied Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Jason M. Schaller, Michael P. Rohrer, Tuan Anh Nguyen
  • Patent number: 9028332
    Abstract: A cap acting as a grease retention feature and venting system allows crash optimization of a propeller shaft with a plunging constant velocity joint. The cap is located between a constant velocity joint and a tube of the propeller shaft system. The cap includes: a rim sealed against the inner diameter of the constant velocity joint, an interior vent chamber, a vent hole facing the interior components of the constant velocity joint and leading to the vent chamber, and an annular radial groove along the entire circumference connected to the vent chamber. The outer race has a hole perpendicular to the joint axis to complete venting to the atmosphere. In the event of a vehicle crash, the constant velocity internal joint components contact the device, causing the device to dislodge from its fixed position, contact the friction weld curls and fracture at a determined load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: NTN Bearing Corporation of America
    Inventors: Bradley Ketchel, Chris Katke, Kristyn Dougherty, Krystil Edwards
  • Patent number: 8925929
    Abstract: A sealing element for sealing a joint chamber of a constant velocity joint is disclosed. The sealing element comprises an inner collar for providing a sealing connection relative to an inner joint part of the constant velocity joint, an outer collar for providing a sealing connection relative to an outer joint part of the constant velocity joint, and a membrane portion which extends between the inner collar and the outer collar. The membrane portion between the inner collar and the outer collar is fold-free and substantially conical in shape. A joint assembly having a constant velocity joint and a sealing element is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: GKN Driveline Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Herbert Cermak, Michael Zierz
  • Patent number: 8834279
    Abstract: A shaft assembly includes a first shaft. The first shaft has a first annular crest and a second annular crest. The first annular crest and the second annular crest are separated by an inclined surface. The second annular crest includes an axially extending surface attached to an end of the inclined surface. A boot is secured to the shaft. The boot includes a channel and a diaphragm portion disposed adjacent an end of the channel. The channel includes an inlet portion, a partially helical portion, and an outlet portion formed in an inner surface of the boot. The diaphragm portion is provided over the inclined surface and includes a lip which contacts the second annular crest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Dana Automotive Systems Group, LLC
    Inventor: Seung Tark Oh
  • Patent number: 8771086
    Abstract: A fixed type constant velocity universal joint comprises a ball and a lubricating grease sealed therein. A surface roughness of the ball is set to Ra 0.15 ?m or less and a surface roughness of a counterpart surface on which the ball rolls is set to be higher than the surface roughness of the ball. An additive composition of the lubricating grease comprises a base oil, a diurea compound, molybdenum dithiocarbamate, zinc dialkyldithiophosphate, melamine cyanurate, molybdenum disulfide, and calcium salt of alkylaromatic sulfonic acid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: NTN Corporation
    Inventors: Kazuhiko Yoshida, Keisuke Sone, Mika Kohara
  • Patent number: 8740711
    Abstract: An outer race assembly for a constant velocity joint may include an outer race defining a plurality of tracks and a piston selectively moveable along the tracks of the outer race. The outer race assembly may further include a seal disposed about the piston and abutting the outer race about substantially an entire perimeter of the piston. The seal thereby generally seals an interface between the piston and the outer race.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: GKN Driveline North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert L. Cassell, David G. Sasseen
  • Patent number: 8721461
    Abstract: A constant velocity joint may include a joint chamber and a cover defining a bore and configured to seal the joint chamber and prevent lubricant from leaving the joint chamber. A vent valve may be disposed within the bore and define at least one opening. The opening may be a one-way valve configured to exhaust gas from the joint chamber and while maintaining lubricant within the joint chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: GKN Driveline North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric James LaMothe, Michael James Miller
  • Patent number: 8696472
    Abstract: An arrangement with a joint and a gearwheel body for a transmission is provided in which the joint is a constant velocity joint arranged at least partially in an interior space enclosed by the gearwheel body. The constant velocity joint has inner and outer hub tracks and a bearing cage arranged to maintain an essentially constant control angle between tangential ball contact points with the inner and outer tracks while the bearing cage holds the balls in a plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Neumayer Tekfor Holding GmbH
    Inventors: Alexander Ebert, Martin Lehmann, Tobias Roser, Thomas Etzold, Tim Benz
  • Publication number: 20140024466
    Abstract: A constant velocity joint may include a joint chamber and a cover defining a bore and configured to seal the joint chamber and prevent lubricant from leaving the joint chamber. A vent valve may be disposed within the bore and define at least one opening. The opening may be a one-way valve configured to exhaust gas from the joint chamber and while maintaining lubricant within the joint chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2012
    Publication date: January 23, 2014
    Inventors: Eric James LaMothe, Michael James Miller
  • Publication number: 20130252743
    Abstract: A sealing element for sealing a joint chamber of a constant velocity joint is disclosed. The sealing element comprises an inner collar for providing a sealing connection relative to an inner joint part of the constant velocity joint, an outer collar for providing a sealing connection relative to an outer joint part of the constant velocity joint, and a membrane portion which extends between the inner collar and the outer collar. The membrane portion between the inner collar and the outer collar is fold-free and substantially conical in shape. A joint assembly having a constant velocity joint and a sealing element is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2011
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Applicant: GKN Driveline Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Herbert Cermak, Michael Zierz
  • Publication number: 20130079158
    Abstract: The invention provides a grease composition for constant velocity joint containing the components (a) to (g) below and a constant velocity joint containing said composition. (a) a diurea thickening agent having the following formula (1): R1NH—CO—NH—C6H4-p-CH2—C6H4-p-NH—CO—NHR2 ??(1) wherein R1 and R2 may be the same or different and represent C8-C20 alkyl groups, (b) an ester synthetic oil, (c) a mineral oil and/or a synthetic hydrocarbon oil, (d) a molybdenum dialkyldithiocarbamate, (e) molybdenum disulfide, (f) a polytetrafluoroethylene, and (g) a zinc dithiophosphate compound. The grease composition of the invention reduces variations in rotational resistance of the constant velocity joint at a low temperature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2012
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Applicants: NTN CORPORATION, KYODO YUSHI CO., LTD.
    Inventors: KYODO YUSHI CO., LTD., NTN CORPORATION
  • Patent number: 8348773
    Abstract: A constant velocity joint is disclosed that includes a first rotatable shaft, the first shaft comprising an axle portion having on one end an enlarged pocket end, the pocket end having a plurality of circumferentially and radially spaced ball pockets and a distal end; a corresponding plurality of spherical balls disposed in the pockets; and a second rotatable shaft comprising a joint housing, the joint housing having a central bore with a corresponding plurality of axially extending, circumferentially and radially spaced ball grooves disposed about the second longitudinal axis and a base, the joint housing disposed over the pocket end with the corresponding plurality of balls disposed in the grooves, the joint providing a range of angular and axial movement of the first shaft relative to the second shaft, each of the plurality of ball pockets having a recessed lubricant reservoir, the lubricant reservoir having a lubricant disposed therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Steering Solutions IP Holding Corporation
    Inventor: Keith A. Kozlowski
  • Patent number: 8348772
    Abstract: A plunging type constant velocity universal joint includes an inner joint member having an outer peripheral surface in which a plurality of linear track grooves are formed in an axial direction and inclined with respect to an axial line, an outer joint member having an inner peripheral surface in which a plurality of linear track grooves are formed in the axial direction and inclined with respect to the axial line in a direction opposite to that of the track grooves of the inner joint member, and having an inside filled with a lubricant, balls incorporated in respective crossing portions between the track grooves of the inner and outer joint members, and a cage arranged between the outer peripheral surface and the inner peripheral surface for retaining the balls in the same plane, in which a large number of minute recesses are formed at random in surfaces of the balls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: NTN Corporation
    Inventors: Naohiro Une, Tatsuro Sugiyama, Shin Tomogami, Hisaaki Kura
  • Patent number: 8333665
    Abstract: A lubricating having a foam lubricant that minimizes exudation of the lubricating component caused by deformation of the foam lubricant, is excellent in initial lubrication, has a long life, has a low cost, and is excellent in the productivity thereof; a bearing utilizing the lubricating system; a universal joint utilizing the lubricating system; and a process for the production thereof. A lubricating system includes a foam lubricant (9) containing a lubricating component in a resin thereof which foams, hardens, and becomes porous and a lubricant (10) for initial lubrication which is present together with the foam lubricant (9) in a portion to be lubricated. The lubricant (10) for initial lubrication consists of grease having a worked penetration not less than 300 or having a degree of oil separation not less than 0.7 wt % when the grease is left 24 hours at 70° C.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Assignee: NTN Corporation
    Inventor: Mika Kohara
  • Patent number: 8298091
    Abstract: A steel ball rolling configuration and a constant velocity universal joint have a superior oil retention effect between a surface of a steel ball and a partner rolling surface, and can form a thick oil film, improve lubrication, and extend life of the steel ball. The constant velocity universal joint includes a rolling surface and a steel ball that is lubricated by grease and rolls over the rolling surface. A surface roughness of the steel ball is roughened to become more similar to a surface roughness of a partner rolling surface. Numerous miniscule recesses roughly tens of micrometers in size are randomly disposed on the surface of the steel ball.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: NTN Corporation
    Inventors: Yoshimasa Ushioda, Hiroki Ooe, Kazuhiro Muramatsu
  • Patent number: 8267802
    Abstract: A fixed type constant velocity universal joint is capable of securing a ball groove depth larger than conventional products and enhancing performance without an increase in a “force of pushing out balls in an axial direction”, the force having an influence on joint efficiency. In the fixed type constant velocity universal joint, a center of each of a plurality of guide grooves of an outer joint member and a center of each of a plurality of guide grooves of an inner joint member are offset with respect to a spherical surface center of an inner surface and a spherical surface center of an outer surface. A ratio (F/PCR) of an offset amount F to a length of a segment (PCR) ranges from 0.045 to 0.065. A ratio (?t/?) when an angle ? is the total of an angle ?t and an angle ?c ranges from 0.45 to 0.65.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: NTN Corporation
    Inventors: Tomoshige Kobayashi, Kenta Yamazaki, Teruaki Fujio
  • Patent number: 8267798
    Abstract: A connection system for a grease cover of a constant velocity joint includes a groove portion formed in a generally annular portion of the constant velocity joint. The generally annular portion is defined, at least in part, by an inner surface. The system also includes an insertion tool a grease cover selectively positioned at least partially within the groove portion. The grease cover includes an outer edge portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: GKN Driveline North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Madden, Brian Michael Valovick, Jake Lawson
  • Patent number: 8172689
    Abstract: A fixed-type constant velocity universal joint can sufficiently interpose a lubricant between a torque transmitting ball and a guide groove, and reduce frictional force. The fixed-type constant velocity universal joint of the present invention includes an outer joint member 1 that is filled with a lubricant and on which a guide groove 1b that extends in an axial direction is formed on a spherical inner circumferential surface 1a, an inner joint member 2 provided on an inner diameter side of the outer joint member 1 and on which a guide groove 2b that extends in the axial direction is formed on a spherical outer circumferential surface 2a, a torque transmitting ball 3 interposed between opposing guide grooves 1b and 2b of the outer joint member 1 and the inner joint member 2 such as to roll freely, and a cage 4 that holds each ball 3. Numerous miniscule recesses are randomly formed on a surface of the ball 3.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: NTN Corporation
    Inventors: Tomoshige Kobayashi, Teruaki Fujio, Hisaaki Kura, Shin Tomogami, Takeshi Kohara
  • Patent number: 8167726
    Abstract: A sealing cover assembly for an articulating joint. The articulating joint includes a first rotational member and a second rotational member. The sealing cover assembly includes a first portion having a plurality of fastening portions. The fastening portions are coupled to the second rotational member for rotation therewith. The sealing cover assembly also includes a second portion adapted for connecting to the driveline and a plurality of damping members constructed of at least a first material and interconnecting the first portion to the second portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Assignee: GKN Driveline North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Hans Wormsbaecher, Craig A. Campbell
  • Patent number: 8118682
    Abstract: A universal joint which retains a lubricant, is capable of suppressing the exudation of a lubricating component to a minimum amount and preventing the lubricant from scattering from an open portion when the lubricant is deformed by an external force, and a method for producing the universal joint. In the universal joint, a rotational torque is transmitted by engagement between a torque transmission member (6) and tracks (4, 5) provided on an outer member (2) and an inner member (3); the torque transmission member (6) rolls along the tracks (4, 5), thus moving in an axial direction; and a porous solid lubricant (10) is enclosed on a periphery of the torque transmission member (6). The porous solid lubricant (10) containing a lubricating component and a resin component is a solid made porous by foaming and hardening the resin component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: NTN Corporation
    Inventors: Mika Kohana, Yoshihide Himeno, Masaki Higami
  • Publication number: 20110207535
    Abstract: The present invention provides grease which prevents frictional wear on a lubricating surface and excellent in performance of preventing occurrence of flaking, heat-resistant performance, and long-term durability, a grease-enclosed rolling bearing, a constant velocity joint, and rolling parts. Grease is composed of base grease, essentially containing a thickener, to which at least 0.01 to 15 wt % of one substance selected from among bismuth and inorganic bismuth compounds is added. The inorganic bismuth compounds are at least one inorganic bismuth selected from among bismuth sulfate, bismuth trioxide, bismuth carbonate, and sodium bismuthate. The above-described grease is used for the rolling bearing and the constant velocity joint. A coating film of at least one substance selected from among the bismuth and the inorganic bismuth is formed on surfaces of the rolling parts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2011
    Publication date: August 25, 2011
    Applicant: NTN CORPORATION
    Inventor: Hidenobu Mikami
  • Publication number: 20110136578
    Abstract: It is an object of the present invention to provide a grease composition (7) which can be used for a long term in a wide temperature range from low to high temperatures by using comparatively inexpensive base oil. It is another object of the present invention to provide a rolling bearing and a universal joint in which the grease composition (7) is enclosed. The grease composition (7) is composed of base grease, consisting of base oil and a thickener, to which an additive is added. The base oil contains not less than 50 wt % of highly refined oil having a viscosity index of 120 to 180. The additive contains at least ZnDTP and 0.2 to 6 parts by weight of poly(metha)acrylate having a kinematic viscosity of not less than 100 mm2/s and less than 850 mm2/s at 100° C. for 100 parts by weight of the base grease. The grease composition (7) is enclosed in the circumferences of rolling elements (4) of a rolling bearing (1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2009
    Publication date: June 9, 2011
    Applicant: NTN CORPORATION
    Inventor: Takayuki Kawamura
  • Publication number: 20110065515
    Abstract: A constant velocity joint is disclosed that includes a first rotatable shaft, the first shaft comprising an axle portion having on one end an enlarged pocket end, the pocket end having a plurality of circumferentially and radially spaced ball pockets and a distal end; a corresponding plurality of spherical balls disposed in the pockets; and a second rotatable shaft comprising a joint housing, the joint housing having a central bore with a corresponding plurality of axially extending, circumferentially and radially spaced ball grooves disposed about the second longitudinal axis and a base, the joint housing disposed over the pocket end with the corresponding plurality of balls disposed in the grooves, the joint providing a range of angular and axial movement of the first shaft relative to the second shaft, each of the plurality of ball pockets having a recessed lubricant reservoir, the lubricant reservoir having a lubricant disposed therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2010
    Publication date: March 17, 2011
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventor: Keith A. Kozlowski
  • Patent number: 7905785
    Abstract: An embodiment of a constant velocity joint includes a first rotational member having a generally cylindrical surface. The generally cylindrical surface is defined, at least in part, by a groove portion. The constant velocity joint further includes a grease cover selectively positioned adjacent the first rotational member. An edge portion of the grease cover is positioned within the groove to at least partially retain the grease cover in a desired position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Assignee: GKN Driveline North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Vincent Madden, Andrew Patrick Gregory, Noel W. Sutton, Shen-Ling Allen Wang
  • Patent number: 7801657
    Abstract: A control system for a vehicle having first and second wheels is provided that includes a differential apparatus adapted to distribute torque between the first and second wheels and a traction controller for controlling operation of the differential apparatus from vehicle launch up to a predetermined vehicle speed. The traction controller is configured to engage the differential apparatus in a first operating state according to at least one vehicle operating parameter indicative of a low traction operating condition and to further control engagement of the differential apparatus in a second vehicle operating state during the low traction operating condition according to a difference between an actual vehicle yaw rate and a predetermined target vehicle yaw rate. The control system also includes a stability controller for controlling engagement of the differential apparatus at or above the predetermined vehicle speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Damrongrit Piyabongkarn, Jae Y. Lew, John A. Grogg, Robert J. Kyle
  • Publication number: 20100099503
    Abstract: The present invention provides a lubrication system that improves the force of retaining a lubricating component of a foamed lubricant, is capable of minimizing the amount of exudation of the lubricating component which occurs owing to deformation of the foamed lubricant, is capable of compensating for a lubricating function even when the lubricating component exudes insufficiently from the foamed lubricant, and is capable of complying with a demand that the lubrication system has a long life and can be produced at a low cost. The lubrication system comprises a foamed lubricant containing a lubricating component in a resin thereof which foams, hardens, and becomes porous and a grease for auxiliary lubrication which is present together with the foamed lubricant in a portion to be lubricated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2008
    Publication date: April 22, 2010
    Applicant: NTN Corporation
    Inventor: Mika Kohara
  • Publication number: 20100099504
    Abstract: The present invention provides a fixed-type constant velocity universal joint that can sufficiently interpose a lubricant between a torque transmitting ball and a guide groove, and reduce frictional force. The fixed-type constant velocity universal joint of the present invention includes an outer joint member 1 that is filled with a lubricant and on which a guide groove 1b that extends in an axial direction is formed on a spherical inner circumferential surface 1a, an inner joint member 2 provided on an inner diameter side of the outer joint member 1 and on which a guide groove 2b that extends in the axial direction is formed on a spherical outer circumferential surface 2a, a torque transmitting ball 3 interposed between opposing guide grooves 1b and 2b of the outer joint member 1 and the inner joint member 2 such as to roll freely, and a cage 4 that holds each ball 3. Numerous miniscule recesses are randomly formed on a surface of the ball 3.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2008
    Publication date: April 22, 2010
    Inventors: Tomoshige Kobayashi, Teruaki Fujio, Hisaaki Kura, Shin Tomogami, Takeshi Kohara
  • Patent number: 7690999
    Abstract: A shaft coupling includes plates fitted on ends of input and output shafts, respectively. A plurality of guide grooves are formed in the opposed surfaces of the plates, respectively, so that each of the grooves extends perpendicular to the corresponding groove formed in the other plate. A steel ball is disposed between each pair of guide grooves of the plates at a portion where the pair of grooves cross each other. When the steel balls are pushed by the driving plate, they push the driven plate while rolling in the guide grooves, with their movements restricted by a retainer in the radial direction of the plates. Thus, large power can be smoothly transmitted between the rotary members with less frictional resistance. The offset amount can be changed easily. Between the plates, there are only the steel balls and the retainer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignees: NTN Corporation, Bridgestone Corporation
    Inventors: Takashi Nozaki, Hiroyuki Hakamata, Keisuke Sone, Yoshihiko Hayama
  • Patent number: 7591729
    Abstract: A double constant velocity universal joint includes two constant velocity universal joints, each having a cylindrical outer joint member with a plurality of axially extending guide grooves in a spherical inner circumferential surface thereof, an inner joint member with a plurality of axially extending guide grooves formed in a spherical outer circumferential surface, torque transmitting balls each arranged in the ball tracks formed by both guide grooves of the outer joint member and the inner joint member, and a retainer for retaining the balls. The outer joint members are coaxially united back to back, and a cover member having an inner spherical surface that makes sliding contact with the outer circumferential surface of the outer joint member is attached to a shaft that is connected to the inner joint member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2009
    Assignee: NTN Corporation
    Inventors: Akio Sakaguchi, Yasuaki Takekawa
  • Publication number: 20090197688
    Abstract: The present invention provides a steel ball rolling configuration and a constant velocity universal joint that achieve a superior oil retention effect between a surface of a steel ball and a partner rolling surface, can form a thick oil film, improve lubrication, and extend life of the steel ball. The constant velocity universal joint of the present invention includes a rolling surface and a steel ball 7 that is lubricated by grease and rolls over the rolling surface. A surface roughness of the steel ball 7 is roughened to become more similar to a surface roughness of a partner rolling surface. Numerous miniscule recesses 15 roughly tens of micrometers in size are randomly disposed on the surface of the steel ball 7.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2007
    Publication date: August 6, 2009
    Applicant: NTN CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yoshimasa Ushioda, Hiroki Ooe, Kazuhiro Muramatsu
  • Patent number: 7384673
    Abstract: A convoluted boot for constant velocity joints and a constant velocity joint lubricant for use in such a convoluted boot. An additive which is added to the constant velocity joint lubricant and/or to the convoluted boot material is provided. The additive comprises amide waxes and also may include hydrocarbon oils. Use is made, in particular, of monoamides and/or diamides of carboxylic acids with 8 to 50 carbon atoms to form, by diffusion, a lubricating film on the surface of a convoluted boot. Furthermore, oleic acid amide and/or ethylenediamine distearate result in a particularly early formation of a lubricating film on the outer boot surface and thus to a long-term prevention of noise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2008
    Assignee: GKN Automotive GmbH
    Inventors: Herbert Konegen, Hans Schreiber, Lothar Gasper
  • Patent number: 7377339
    Abstract: A system for damping vibration in a drill string can include a valve assembly having a supply of a fluid, a first member, and a second member capable of moving in relation to first member in response to vibration of the drill bit. The first and second members define a first and a second chamber for holding the fluid. Fluid can flow between the first and second chambers in response to the movement of the second member in relation to the first member. The valve assembly can also include a coil or a valve for varying a resistance of the fluid to flow between the first and second chambers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2008
    Assignee: APS Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Ellsworth Wassell, William Evans Turner, Daniel E. Burgess, Carl Allison Perry
  • Publication number: 20080107477
    Abstract: A connecting assembly between a shaft journal which is axially secured, and a constant velocity universal joint whose inner joint part is engaged by the shaft journal in a rotationally fast way, wherein there is provided a threaded sleeve which is held so as to be axially secured and freely rotatable relative to the inner joint part and which comprises a thread which can be threaded on to a counter thread on the shaft journal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2005
    Publication date: May 8, 2008
    Inventor: Herbert Cermak
  • Patent number: 7252616
    Abstract: A torque transfer device, such as a transfer case for a motor vehicle, having a constant velocity joint integrated therewith is disclosed. In one embodiment, the constant velocity joint includes an outer race rotatably mounted within the torque transfer device and an inner race positioned within the outer race and operatively connected to the outer race by one or more torque transmitting balls. The torque transfer device further includes a drive mechanism that is connected to the outer race of the constant velocity joint, wherein the drive mechanism transfers torque received from an input shaft to the outer race of the constant velocity joint such that the outer race drives the inner race. The torque transfer device further includes an output shaft that is rotatably connected to the inner race.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Assignee: GKN Driveline North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Hans Wormsbaecher
  • Patent number: 6988949
    Abstract: A vent valve for use in a constant velocity joint having a vent aperture in communication with a joint chamber comprises a body having a first end and a second end and at least one flat extending therebetween; and an umbrella shaped flexible retention cap disposed adjacent the first end of the body and the at least one flat. The retention cap is operative in a normally closed position to cover the at least one flat and seal the joint from external contaminants, and in response to internal pressure created in the joint cavity, functions to bellow outward and expose the at least one flat to permit air to escape from the chamber. The at least one flat includes a straight-line vent to clean the grease off and away from the vent valve. The vent valve can be made from single or multiple materials, having porous and non-porous properties.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2006
    Assignee: GKN Driveline North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Shen-Ling Allen Wang
  • Publication number: 20040235572
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2003
    Publication date: November 25, 2004
    Inventor: Ronald N. Brissette
  • Patent number: 6805082
    Abstract: A valve timing adjusting device sets an amount of phase shift of a driven shaft with respect to a drive shaft. A first hole in a first rotor forms a first track extending in order to vary its radial distance from a rotation center line. The first hole makes contact with a control member passing through the first track, on the two sides of the first hole toward which the first hole (the first rotor) rotates. A second hole in a second rotor forms a second track that extends. The second hole makes contact with the control member that passes through the second track. The first track and the second track slant toward each other in the rotation direction of the first and second rotor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2004
    Assignees: Denso Corporation, Nippon Soken, Inc.
    Inventors: Akihiko Takenaka, Takayuki Inohara
  • Patent number: 6793581
    Abstract: A constant velocity joint for use with an automotive vehicle. The constant velocity joint includes an outer race and an inner race supported within the outer race. The constant velocity joint includes a cover, wherein that cover creates a barrier between a lubricant and the atmosphere. The constant velocity joint also includes a permeable membrane adjacent to the cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Assignee: GKN Driveline North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Erik Meyer, Joachim Proelss
  • Patent number: 6736729
    Abstract: A constant velocity joint wherein one or more of the outer ball tracks, the inner ball tracks, or the balls have textured surfaces such as dimples or raised ridges to increase lubrication of the joint and enhance performance characteristics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2004
    Assignee: GKN Automotive, Inc.
    Inventors: Shen-Ling Allen Wang, John Ramey
  • Patent number: 6663494
    Abstract: An improved constant velocity joint grease cover and flange assembly and method of making the same. The constant joint has a mating surface with a first anti-slip portion. The flange has a mating surface with a second anti-slip portion, the grease cover has a first mating surface with a third anti-slip portion adapted to receive and mate with the first anti-slip portion of the constant velocity joint, and a second mating surface with a fourth anti-slip portion adapted to receive and mate with the second anti-slip portion of the flange. The respective anti-slip portions functions to reduce shearing forces on connecting bolts of the assembly caused by applied torque.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Assignee: GKN Automotive, Inc.
    Inventor: Jason Curi
  • Patent number: 6579187
    Abstract: A barrier for use in a constant velocity joint wherein the constant velocity joint has a lubricant within an outer race and a boot secured to a boot cover. The barrier includes a shield wherein that shield is in contact with the outer race and the boot cover. The shield generally has a body with a cup shaped cross section and a circumferential flange extending therefrom. The shield provides a barrier between the boot and the heat and grease lubricant of the constant velocity joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2003
    Assignee: GKN Automotive, Inc.
    Inventor: John A. Ramey
  • Patent number: 6530843
    Abstract: A constant velocity joint vent for use in a constant velocity joint. The vent includes a permeable membrane located within a chamber of the vent. The vent further includes a neck having a plurality of orifices thereabout, wherein the orifices allow gases to travel between an interior and exterior of the vent. The orifices also provide a secondary function of stopping any lubricant from entering and contaminating the permeable membrane of the vent system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2003
    Assignee: GKN Automotive, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael J. Miller, John Ramey
  • Publication number: 20030008716
    Abstract: A propeller shaft assembly (10) comprising a constant velocity universal joint (12) including a hollow shaft (20) and a connecting shaft (18) is provided. The hollow shaft (20) includes an aft open area (34) and is connected to an outer joint part (23) that has outer ball tracks (32). The connecting shaft (18) is connected to an inner joint part (25) that has inner ball tracks (46). A ball cage (26) that has a plurality of balls (28) is included. A standard plunge (22) that has an aft plunge portion (54) is also included. The aft plunge portion (54) and the aft open area (34) having inner diameters that are greater then or equal to an inner diameter D1 of the outer joint part (23). A first stop (55) limits the ball movement of travel in the aft direction. The first stop (55) is forcibly dispensable such that the connecting shaft (18) may release the first stop (55) and intrude significantly within the aft open area (34) which is outside a normal operating range (24).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2001
    Publication date: January 9, 2003
    Applicant: GKN Automotive, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Anthony Boutin
  • Patent number: 6378630
    Abstract: A locking swivel device is provided for connection with a proximal end of a drill string and for conducting a drilling fluid to the drill string. The device is comprised of a housing and a mandrel rotatably supported within the housing such that an annular space is defined between the housing and the mandrel, wherein one of the housing and the mandrel is connectable with the drill string such that the drill string rotates therewith. A clutch assembly is positioned within the annular space which is actuatable between an engaged condition in which the clutch assembly engages the housing and the mandrel in order to inhibit the rotation of the mandrel relative to the housing and a disengaged condition in which the clutch assembly disengages the housing and the mandrel in order to permit the rotation of the mandrel relative to the housing. The clutch assembly is actuated to the engaged condition by a pressure exerted by the drilling fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Assignee: Canadian Downhole Drill Systems Inc.
    Inventors: Leonardo Ritorto, Robert Roszak
  • Publication number: 20020025854
    Abstract: A constant velocity joint vent for use in a constant velocity joint. The vent includes a permeable membrane located within a chamber of the vent. The vent further includes a neck having a plurality of orifices thereabout, wherein the orifices allow gases to travel between an interior and exterior of the vent. The orifices also provide a secondary function of stopping any lubricant from entering and contaminating the permeable membrane of the vent system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2001
    Publication date: February 28, 2002
    Applicant: GKN Automotive, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael J. Miller, John Ramey
  • Patent number: 6350202
    Abstract: A constant velocity fixed joint has an outer part 1, an inner part 9, a cage 18 and balls 23 which are guided by the cage 18 in the outer running grooves 5 of the outer part 1 and in the inner running grooves 14 of the inner part 9. The inner part 9 is held relative to the outer part 1 entirely by the balls 23 in the radial direction and by the ball 23 on the one hand and by a control element 24 on the other hand, which control element 24 is supported on the inner part 9 and on a supporting element 35 associated with the outer part 1. Beyond the advantageous supporting conditions achieved by said assembly, it is possible to achieve a further reduction in friction by friction-reducing means which are provided in the form of lubricating grooves 31, 33 for example, thus achieving hydro-dynamic lubrication conditions which are advantageously affected in that the control element 24 achieves high sliding speeds relative to the supporting element 35.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2002
    Assignee: GKN Lobro GmbH
    Inventors: Achim Jacob, Werner Jacob
  • Patent number: 6280337
    Abstract: A constant velocity ball joint includes an outer race having a plurality of first tracks separated by first lands. Each first land has a first land surface. The joint further includes an inner race having a plurality of second tracks separated by second lands. A cage is disposed between the races. The cage has an outer cage surface facing the outer race, an inner cage surface facing the inner race, and a plurality of circumferentially distributed windows. A plurality of torque-transmitting balls are disposed in the windows, and are engageable with the tracks. At least one of the group consisting of the first land surfaces and the inner cage surface includes ramped portions that are engageable with a respective one of the group consisting of the outer cage surface and the inner race.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2001
    Assignee: GKN Automotive, Inc.
    Inventors: Hans Wormsbächer, Donald Wayne Dine
  • Publication number: 20010007832
    Abstract: A constant-velocity joint having a boot and containing a lubricating grease that will not deteriorate the boot of the CVJ while maintaining required torque transmission performance. The constant-velocity joint is filled with a lubricating grease, and the tubular boot is made from a thermoplastic polyester elastomer. The grease contains a base oil, a thickener in the form of a lithium soap such as lithium 12 hydroxystearate or a lithium complex, and extreme-pressure additives in the form of molybdenum disulfide, molybdenum alkyldithiocarbamate and zinc dithiocarbamate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2000
    Publication date: July 12, 2001
    Inventor: Shinichi Takabe
  • Patent number: 6174240
    Abstract: A constant velocity universal joint has an outer part (1), an inner part (12) arranged in the outer part (1), and a cage (24) for guiding balls (23) each accommodated in an inner track (14) and an outer track (3). A control element (29) is arranged between the inner part (12) and a first attaching element (5) associated with the outer part (1). A second attaching part (18) is associated with the inner part (12). The second attaching element (18) is provided in the form of a tubular shaft. The invention provides advantageous lubrication conditions for the parts sliding on one another, i.e. the control face (17) and seat face (31) of the control element (29) on the one hand and the sliding face (10) as well as the contact face (30) of the control element (29) contacting the sliding face (10) on the other hand. Two chambers (9, 20) which accommodate lubricant and communicate with one another through an aperture (32) are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2001
    Assignee: GKN Lobro GmbH
    Inventors: Achim Jacob, Werner Jacob
  • Patent number: 6149524
    Abstract: In a constant velocity joint, the inner running grooves start from a first end of the inner part and extend along the entire length of the inner part as far as a second end. The inner running grooves are open toward the second end, and toward a central recess which starts from the second end. The central recess provides a lubricant groove function. Further, the inner running grooves preferably have a first portion and a second portion. The first portion serves to receive an associated ball extending through a cage and into the outer part. The second portion also provides a lubricating function.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Assignee: GKN Lobro GmbH
    Inventor: Werner Jacob