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A universal joint is a type of mechanical instrument used in many applications to transmit rotation through slightly misaligned shafts. The misalignment correction is limited by the design of the shaft but can be amplified by the use of multiple universal joints. Correction is needed because if the junction between shafts is not straight, rotation becomes jerky and unreliable due to inconstant angular velocity. However, there still exists an inherent problem in universal joints because not all components have the same angular velocities over one rotation.
A typical universal joint has a four-point cross which is connected to two shaft yokes at right angles to each other.
The simplest and most common type is called the Cardan joint or Hooke joint. It consists of two yokes, one on each shaft, connected by a cross-shaped intermediate member called the spider. The angle between the two shafts is called the operating angle. Good design practice calls for low operating angles, often less than 25°, dependIng on the application. Independent of this guideli ne, mechanical interference In the construction of Cardan joints limit the operating angle to a maximum (often about 37½°), depending on its proportions.
Typical applications of universal joints include aircraft, appliances, control mechanisms, electronIcs, Instrumentation, medical and optical devices, ordnance, radio, sewing machines, textile machinery and tool drives.
Universal joints are available in steel or in thermoplastic body members. Universal joints made of steel have the maximum load-carrying capacity for a given size. Universal joints with thermoplastic body members are used in light industrial applications in which their self-lubricating feature, lightweight, negligible backlash, corrosion resistance, and capability for high-speed operation are significant advantages.
Universal joints of special construction, such as ball-jointed universals are also available. These are used for high-speed operation and for carrying large torques. They are available both in miniature and standard sizes.
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