Tripod joint

摘要

A tripod joint has an outer joint component having three circumferentially distributed recesses with parallel axes forming circumferentially opposing tracks. An inner joint component has a spider-shape cross-section with three circumferentially distributed arms which engage recesses of the outer joint component. The arms support roller assemblies. Each roller assembly includes a roller-carrier and a roller that runs directly on the tracks. The roller is arranged to slide axially along the arm axis and swivel with angular movement relative to the arm axis. A support is provided between the roller assembly and the outer joint component. The support absorbs tilting moments exerted on the roller assembly about an axis parallel to the joint axis and tilting moments exerted on the roller assembly about an axis perpendicular to, and spaced from, the joint axis. The support is provided by the roller engaging a pilot groove of the outer joint component whose depth is dimensioned such that the axial guided distance which is (2xF1) in the pilot groove affecting the roller, is at least equal to one half of the roller diameter which is 2xR1. This means there is a relation of F1>/=0.5 R1 .