Electromechanical joint for conductor arm having multiple degrees of freedom

A work machine, comprising:

• an electric engine;
• traction devices configured to cause movement of the work machine along a haul route when powered by the electric engine;
• a current collector configured to movably engage with at least one power rail disposed proximate the haul route;
• at least one conductive arm having an upper end and a lower end;
• and
• an electromechanical joint disposed between the current collector and the at least one conductive arm, the electromechanical joint comprising:
• an enclosure;
• a first axle comprising a first shaft and a second shaft, the first shaft and the second shaft aligned longitudinally on a first axis passing through the enclosure;
• a second axle comprising a third shaft and a fourth shaft, the third shaft and the fourth shaft aligned longitudinally on a second axis passing through the enclosure substantially orthogonal to the first axis, wherein the first shaft, the second shaft, the third shaft, and the fourth shaft are spaced apart from each other by a separation;
• and
• a conductive fluid within the separation contacting the first axle and the second axle.

A method, comprising:

• coupling an electrically conductive assembly to a source of electrical power, the electrically conductive assembly comprising an electromechanical joint between a first conductive yoke and a second conductive yoke, the electromechanical joint comprising:
• a first conductive shaft coupled to the first conductive yoke and extending along a first longitudinal axis,
• a second conductive shaft coupled to the second conductive yoke and extending along a second longitudinal axis different from the first longitudinal axis, the second conductive shaft being separated from the first conductive shaft, and
• conductive fluid between the first conductive shaft and the second conductive shaft;
• conducting the electrical power through the first conductive shaft, the conductive fluid, and the second conductive shaft;
• in response to a first force on the second conductive yoke substantially perpendicular to the first longitudinal axis, pivoting the second conductive shaft about the first longitudinal axis;
• in response to a second force on the second conductive yoke substantially perpendicular to the second longitudinal axis, rotating the second conductive shaft about the second longitudinal axis;
• and
• continuing to conduct the electrical power through the first conductive shaft, the conductive fluid, and the second conductive shaft during the one or more of the pivoting the second conductive shaft and the rotating the second conductive shaft.