Patent ID: 6080065
Filing Date: 2000-06-27
Classification: F16D

Abstract:
An elastomeric coupling for transmitting torque between two shafts approximately aligned on a shaft axis, said coupling comprising a composite arcuately extending member including a shoe having a first portion and a second portion extending from said first portion and adapted to be connected to one of said shafts, and an elastomeric center element having, in a radial plane extending from and along said shaft axis, an inwardly opening generally U-shaped cross-section defined by two axially spaced radially extending leg portions respectively including an inner part bonded to said first portion of said shoe, and an outer part, and an axially extending bridge portion connected to said outer parts and including a weakened area which is located remotely from said shaft axis and which facilitates tearing of said bridge portion at said weakened area in response to excessive transmission of force as compared to tearing of said bridge portion at other areas.