Universal joint

摘要

A universal joint (20) includes an outer member (26) defining an interior opening (28) and a plurality of grooves (30) within the opening extending along a longitudinal axis (L). An inner member (32) is disposed within the opening and includes a plurality of pockets (36) opposing the grooves (30). A drive ball (38) is disposed within each pocket (36) and engages the opposing groove (30). Each of the pockets (36) and each of the grooves (30) opposing the pockets (36) include a central axis (C) passing through a ball center (40) of the drive balls (38). The drive balls (38) are supported by the pockets (36) and define a pocket contact angle (A). The drive balls (38) are also supported by the grooves (30) and define a groove contact angle (60). The pocket contact angle (A) is less than the groove contact angle (60) to urge the drive balls (38) upward against the grooves (30).