| 摘要 |
A universal joint for connecting a pair of elongated members is disclosed. The joint provides for transmission of torque between the pair of members when the pair of members are oriented at various angles relative to each other. One of the members terminates in a cavity, or housing, which is substantially cylindrical. The other member extends into the cavity and a pair of sockets cooperate with the other member to secure the latter within the cavity. The pair of sockets include outer surfaces which substantially match with the cylindrical cavity surface to enable the pair of sockets to rotate in a plane relative to the one member. The pair of sockets include projections which are received in an opening on the other member to enable the other member to pivot relative to the pair of sockets and the one member in substantially perpendicular plane. At least one of the sockets is shiftable in a direction along the major axis of the member receiving the projections in order to reduce the maximum dimension of the pair of sockets and the member to permit the pair of sockets and the member to be accommodated within the housing. When accommodated within the housing, the socket is shiftable into its operative position wherein both sockets substantially engage the wall of the cavity. The shiftable socket includes a locking member opening designed to accommodate a locking member for locking the socket with respect to the other member when the socket is in its operative position with respect to the other member. |
