Gkn Automotive Gmbh

Daniel Booker

Theodore H Collins

Joachim Proelss

A propeller shaft assembly ( ) comprising a constant velocity universal joint ( ) including a hollow shaft ( ) and a connecting shaft ( ) is provided. The hollow shaft ( ) includes an outer joint part ( ) having an outer race surface ( ) that includes an outer forward portion ( ) and an outer rearward portion ( ). The connecting shaft ( ) includes an inner joint part ( ) having an inner race surface ( ) that includes an inner forward portion ( ) and an inner rearward portion ( ). The connecting shaft ( ) further includes a recessed surface portion ( ). A ball cage ( ) that has a plurality of torque transmitting balls ( ) is included. During a collision, the torque transmitting balls ( ) translate off said inner race surface ( ) and drop into the recessed surface portion ( ) allowing the connecting shaft ( ) to collapse into the hollow shaft ( ).

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Troy, MI, United States of America

Daniel Booker