The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Nov. 11, 2003
Filed:
Jun. 05, 2001
Garth B. Maughan, Delta, OH (US);
Wayne M. Winkler, Berkey, OH (US);
Dana Corporation, Toledo, OH (US);
Abstract
An improved dust boot accommodates a ball and socket joint subject to high articulation under harsh environmental conditions of moisture and corrosive contaminants. The improved boot is capable of accommodating articulation of an associated ball stud up to 60 degrees from the rotational center of the joint, as well as twisting motions of the stud of at least 45 degrees. The dust boot includes multiple undulations that feature a series of convolutions or deep folds. In one example, the boot contains at least one undulation that includes two pairs of radially extending ribs so as to present a fully convoluted bulbous loop, complete with reverse bends to maximize amount of material available for stretching when the stud is articulated to high angles. The bulbous loop not only provides for up to 60 degrees of stud articulation but also provides at least 45 degrees of twisting motion without potential deleterious effects.