Novel Spring-Loaded Wear Test Rig to Test the Material Life of Probes Used in the Ingenious Six-Window Gauging System

Abstract

Constant-velocity (CV) joints are transmission joints used in steering sub-assemblies. This component resembles a segment of a hollow sphere with six equally spaced windows of the same size cut around its periphery. The six-window gauge is used to check oversized windows in the CV joint. It contains six probes, each of which examines simultaneously the oversized windows in the component. The probe used in checking is constantly subjected to wear because of spring-loaded stress exerted on it while checking. An automated test rig has been developed to simulate the application to identify the best material for the probe used in the checking zone. Several probe materials were tested in the test rig, and the best material was chosen. This finding can pave the way for an optimized gauging system that fits a production line well. The test rig was designed specifically to select the best probe material to be used on the gauging system.