Patent ID: 6139435
Filing Date: 2000-10-31
Classification: F16D

Abstract:
A universal joint comprising:(a) first and second rings;(b) first and second yokes disposed within the first and second rings, respectively;(c) first and second shafts;(d) first pin means pivotally interconnecting the first yoke and the first ring;(e) second pin means pivotally interconnecting the first shaft and the first ring;(f) third pin means pivotally interconnecting the second yoke and the second ring;(g) fourth pin means interconnecting the second shaft and the second ring;(h) a coupling means interconnecting the first yoke and the second yoke; and(i) a plurality of spherical bearing means received in spherical races in each ring, the bearing means in the first ring receiving the first and second pin means, and the bearing means in the second ring receiving the third and fourth pin means, wherein the spherical bearing means are shaped such that their geometry retains them in the rings.