Gregory D Atkins

US Patent:

58850228, Mar 23, 1999

Filed:

Jul 15, 1997

Appl. No.:

8/893100

Inventors:

Garth B. Maughan - Delta OH
Gregory R. Atkins - Toledo OH

Assignee:

Dana Corporation - Toledo OH

International Classification:

F16C 1106

US Classification:

403135

Abstract:

A ball joint having a polymeric housing with an integral bearing seat for receiving a ball stud. A polymeric cap attaches to the housing and includes a bearing cavity for contacting the ball stud. The housing and bearing cap each have retention features that cooperate to securely assemble the joint. A pattern of reinforcing ribs are optionally provided on the outer surface of the housing to increase strength and dimensional stability.

US Patent:

57047278, Jan 6, 1998

Filed:

Oct 31, 1995

Appl. No.:

8/551086

Inventors:

Gregory R. Atkins - Toledo OH
Garth B. Maughan - Delta OH

Assignee:

Dana Corporation - Toldeo OH

International Classification:

F16C 1100

US Classification:

403135

Abstract:

An inventive ball and socket joint has a metallic socket with a cavity that receives a semi-rigid annular bearing, a ball stud, and an annular rigid metallic retainer ring. The retainer ring is self-centering within the socket cavity. It includes a lower wedge portion that is received in a corresponding pocket formed between an upper stepped portion of the bearing and inner surface of the socket. Besides being self-centering, the retainer ring also acts as a wedge between the socket and bearing to provide a compression pre-load to the bearing which is controllably released as the bearing wears during use.