ELASTOMERIC COUPLING HAVING CLAMP RING WITH FLANGES PROVIDING TORSIONAL STIFFNESS CHARACTERISTICS

摘要

A coupling transmits torque between shafts approximately aligned on a shaft axis. The coupling has a center axis approximately aligned with the shaft axis and a center element formed from an elastomer material. The center element has first and second axial sides. A clamp ring extends axially from each side of the center element along the coupling center axis. The clamp rings may include slots for fasteners for mounting the coupling to shaft hubs. The clamp ring has a flange portion embedded within the center element. Each clamp ring flange portion extends substantially away from the coupling center axis within the center element. An amount of extension away from the coupling center axis is selected to provide the coupling with a desired torsional stiffness characteristic. In accordance with a method, the coupling is formed by selecting the flange portions that will provide the coupling with a desired torsional stiffness characteristic.