AC universal joint angular contact joint: the secret of angle and torque transmission

1. Basic structure of AC universal joint angular contact joint
As the name implies, AC universal joint angular contact joint is a universal joint that uses the principle of angular contact to achieve power transmission. It is mainly composed of two fork-shaped parts, a cross shaft and angular contact ballway. The cross-section of the ballway is usually an ellipse or Gaussian curve (double arc). This design enables the universal joint to withstand greater angle deviation when transmitting power while maintaining high transmission efficiency.
2. Implementation of angle transmission
During the driving process of the vehicle, since the relative position between the engine and the drive wheel will continue to change, a transmission device that allows the axis angle to change is required. The AC universal joint angular contact joint achieves this function through its unique structural design.
Specifically, when there is an angular deviation between the two axes, the fork-shaped part of the AC universal joint angular contact joint will rotate relative to each other under the support of the cross shaft. Since the cross-section of the ballway is an ellipse or Gaussian curve, this rotation will cause the ball core in the ballway to roll and slide at the contact point. Through the rolling and sliding of the ball core, the universal joint can allow the axis to rotate freely within a certain angle range, thereby realizing the transmission of angle.
3. Realization of torque transmission
In addition to angle transmission, the AC type universal joint angular contact joint also needs to be able to efficiently transmit torque. This is mainly achieved through the contact force between the ball core and the ball track.
When transmitting torque, the ball core is subjected to axial force from the fork-shaped component. Since the cross-section of the ball track is an ellipse or Gaussian curve, this axial force will be decomposed into radial force and tangential force. The radial force is used to maintain the stable position of the ball core in the ball track, while the tangential force is used to push the ball core to roll in the ball track, thereby transmitting torque from one axis to another.
The AC type universal joint angular contact joint also adopts a preload design. By squeezing the ball core onto the ball tooth through the cage to form a certain preload, it can ensure close contact between the ball core and the ball track, and improve the efficiency and stability of torque transmission.
4. Performance advantages of AC type universal joint angular contact joint
The AC type universal joint angular contact joint plays an important role in the automotive transmission system with its unique structure and excellent performance. Its main performance advantages include:
Large-angle transmission capability: Since the cross section of the ball track is an ellipse or Gaussian curve, the AC universal joint can allow the axis to rotate freely within a large angle range, meeting the movement requirements of the vehicle steering and suspension system.
Efficient torque transmission: Through the close contact and rolling friction between the ball core and the ball track, the AC universal joint can efficiently transmit torque and reduce energy loss.
Stability and durability: The preload design and the use of high-quality materials make the AC universal joint have high stability and durability, and can operate stably for a long time under harsh working conditions.