Universal Joints and Driveshafts

Covers the fundamental principles and practical applications of engineering procedures concerning joints and driveshafts. Topics addressed include kinematic aspects, strength parameters, constant velocity characteristics and Weber's analogy vis a vis the Hertzian theory of deformation.

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A book devoted to joints and driveshafts, covering both fundamental principles and practical application engineering procedures. Particular emphasis has been placed on making the basic elements accessible to practising engineers. At the fundamental level, the kinematic aspects and strength parameters of all types of joints are considered analytically. The kinematics of joints and the demonstration of constant velocity characteristics are explored with the aid of vectors and matrices. Weber's analogy is used to enable the Hertzian theory of deformation at the contact surface to be generally understood, and to form the basis of straightforward procedures to assess the strength of joints. From these basics principles, the torque-carrying capacity and durability of Hooke's, ball and pode joints are calculated: examples are given for joints following the Weiss, Rzeppa and Orain principles. All types of construction and control systems are considered for both fixed and pluinging joints, and connecting elements are described. Rules for the design and layout of drive-shafts are given and application engineering procedures are derived.