Dynamic Reversible Multi-Cross Section Universal Modular Driveline Coupler
AssigneeValmont Industries, Inc.
InventorTheodore George Santiesteban
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
Apparatus and method for an improved driveline coupler having a reversible saddle thereon which allows it to be configured to work with different sizes and shapes of shafts. The reversible saddle is configured on one side to work with one size of driveline shaft and configured on the opposite side to work with a different size driveline shaft so that in the field, an operator can modify the driveline coupler from use with a first size of drive shaft to a second size of drive shaft easily and quickly by turning the saddle upside down.
Claims21
A driveline coupler for a sprinkler irrigation system, comprising:
- a) a first load arm disposed on a first end of said driveline coupler for connection to a first shaft;
- b) a second load arm disposed on a second end of said driveline coupler for connection to a second shaft;
- c) a reversible saddle mounted on a portion of at least one of either said first or second load arm;
- d) wherein said reversible saddle has an upper side and a lower side, wherein said upper side is sized for a first size of either said first or second shaft and said lower side is sized for a second size of either said first or second shaft;
- and
- e) wherein when said reversible saddle is turned upside down it can be used with different sizes and shapes of drive shafts.
A driveline coupler for a sprinkler irrigation system, comprising:
- a) a first load arm disposed on one end of said driveline coupler for receiving an output drive shaft from a source of power and a second load arm disposed on an opposite end of said driveline coupler for delivering power to a wheel drive shaft of a wheel assembly of said sprinkler irrigation system;
- b) said first load arm having an opening for receiving said output drive shaft from said source of power,
- c) said second load arm having an opening for receiving said wheel drive shaft;
- d) a reversible saddle mounted on a portion of at least one said openings of either said first or second load arm;
- e) wherein said reversible saddle has an upper side and a lower side, wherein said upper side is sized for a first size of either said first or second shaft and said lower side is sized for a second size of either said first or second shaft;
- and
- f) wherein when said reversible saddle is turned upside down it can be used with different sizes and shapes of drive shafts.
A method for assembling a driveline coupler for a sprinkler irrigation system, comprising the steps of:
- a) providing a first load arm on a first end of the driveline coupler for connection to a first shaft;
- b) providing a second load arm on a second end of the driveline coupler for connection to a second shaft;
- c) mounting a reversible saddle on a portion of at least one of either the first or second load arm;
- d) providing an upper side and a lower side on the reversible saddle, wherein the upper side is sized for a first size of either the first or second shaft and the lower side is sized for a second size of either the first or second shaft;
- and
- e) turning, the reversible saddle upside down so that it can be used with different sizes and shapes of drive shafts.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.