A universal joint, also known as a U-joint or Cardan joint, is a mechanical component that allows the transmission of torque between two shafts that are not aligned. Universal joints are commonly used in automotive applications, such as drive shafts and steering columns, as well as in industrial machinery and robotics. There are several types of universal joints, including single U-joints, double U-joints, and constant velocity (CV) joints. The type of universal joint used in a particular application depends on the specific requirements of the application, such as the angle of misalignment, the torque load, and the speed of rotation.
Universal joints are important components in many applications because they allow shafts to transmit torque at angles that would not be possible with solid shafts. This makes them essential for applications where shafts need to be aligned at angles, such as in drive shafts and steering columns. Universal joints also allow for some misalignment between shafts, which can be caused by factors such as manufacturing tolerances, wear, and vibration.
