Design optimization of an automotive universal joint considering manufacturing cost

This paper presents the shape optimization of an automotive universal joint, by simultaneously considering manufacturing cost, maximum drivable joint angle and part volume. Comprised of three main components - two yokes and a cross trunnion - a universal joint is a linkage used to transmit rotational motion from one shaft to another when the axes are coplanar, but not coinciding. In this research, universal joint designs are analyzed and …