A universal joint is a joint or coupling connecting rigid rods whose axes are inclined to each other and is commonly used in shafts that transmit rotary motion. It consists of a pair of hinges located close together, oriented at 90° to each other, connected by a cross shaft. The universal joint is not a constant-velocity joint.
A universal joint is more typically referred to as U-joint. In addition, it may also be named universal coupling, Cardan joint, and Hooke’s joint, etc. it is just a mechanized link between rotating shafts that are generally not in parallel, but intersecting. It can permit the positive transmission of rotating power at a much larger angle than is permissible having a flexible coupling. And it can transfer torque as well as motion.
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In 1841, the English scientist Robert Willis analyzed the motion of the universal joint.By 1845, the French engineer and mathematician Jean-Victor Poncelet had analyzed the movement of the universal joint using spherical trigonometry.
Universal joints are usually widely used in different power transmission systems. They have a variety of programs. They might be included in food processing equipment, a replacement for high-priced gearboxes, as well as drives, etc. Besides, they are also commonly applied in connecting power take-off driveshafts in off-highway tractors that operate drawn machinery for instance rotary grass mowers and feed grinders.
As is described at the beginning of this particular article, a universal joint is can also be referred to as Cardan joint or Hooke’s joint. Actually, this is basically the oldest and most common type of u-joint. This joint is quite widely used in automotive programs. It could transmit relatively high torque with minimum radial loads. However, it also has some cons. For example, by structure, these u-joints have problems compensating for parallel offset as well as axial misalignment. Besides, due to its design, even a lubricated Cardan u-joint will require regular servicing and may leak lubricant.
Universal joints can be allotted to certainly one of three groups: nonconstant velocity U-joints, near-constant velocity U-joints, or constant velocity U-joints. As to the first one, it offers the simplest and also the very least complicated units. Typical programs are to join the driveshaft and differential in automobiles and trucks. They are also frequently used in mobile devices, farm machinery, and industrial machines.
Regarding the 2nd category, the most common type of joint that produces a near-constant acceleration consists of two back-to-back Cardan joints, with the second joint compensating for the rate variations of the first.
Now let us understand the third one: constant velocity U-joints. It is known that this kind of joints can operate more smoothly and at higher speeds than the other two varieties because of the continuous speed features. However, they likewise have many disadvantages. For example, they are really more complicated as well as expensive. Besides, they actually do not carry loads as hefty as non-constant-velocity kinds.
Based on the previously mentioned, we could see that the universal joint is also an extremely important mechanical part. It performs an essential position in power transmission. Therefore, it is also rather required to understand something about it.
