A common joint, also called a U-joint or Cardan joint, is a mechanical part that enables the transmission of torque between two shafts that aren’t aligned. Common joints are generally utilized in automotive functions, similar to drive shafts and steering columns, in addition to in industrial equipment and robotics. There are a number of forms of common joints, together with single U-joints, double U-joints, and fixed velocity (CV) joints. The kind of common joint utilized in a specific software depends upon the particular necessities of the applying, such because the angle of misalignment, the torque load, and the pace of rotation.
Common joints are vital elements in lots of functions as a result of they permit shafts to transmit torque at angles that may not be potential with stable shafts. This makes them important for functions the place shafts must be aligned at angles, similar to in drive shafts and steering columns. Common joints additionally permit for some misalignment between shafts, which will be attributable to elements similar to manufacturing tolerances, put on, and vibration.
