Patent ID: 8162767
Filing Date: 2012-04-24
Classification: F16D,Y10S

Abstract:
1. A constant velocity joint assembly comprising: an outer joint member defining a cavity and having an axial end disposed along a longitudinal axis of said outer joint member; an inner joint member disposed within said cavity and moveable relative to said outer joint member; a shaft coupled to said inner joint member and moveable with said inner joint member for articulated movement of said shaft relative to said longitudinal axis; a boot for sealing said cavity, wherein said boot comprises: a first end portion connected to said shaft; a second end portion connected to said outer joint member; a bellows portion extending between said first end portion and said second end portion; and an insert supported by said boot and positioned by said boot adjacent to and in abutting engagement with said axial end of said outer joint member, said insert being positioned to contact said shaft when the shaft is moved transversely to its longitudinal direction, said insert having a restraining end that is axially spaced from said axial end of said outer joint member, said restraining end having a diameter about the longitudinal axis that is defined so as to said articulated movement of said shaft relative to said longitudinal axis to within a predetermined range of articulation, to thereby prevent disengagement of said inner joint member from said outer joint member.