Jaw Couplings for Robotic Systems
Jaw couplings are comprised of two aluminum hubs and a flexible elastomer element called the spider. Ruland jaw coupling hubs are machined with a curved jaw profile, resulting in a press fit with the spider allowing for zero-backlash operation. Jaw couplings are commonly used in cobots, vision, and other robotic applications where high acceleration/deceleration curves are present and vibration dampening is required. Ruland manufactures zero-backlash jaw couplings with a balanced design for reduced vibration at speeds up to 8,000 RPM.
Designers can choose from three spider durometers based on their dampening, torque, and torsional stiffness requirements. The jaw coupling spider serves as the wear element, resulting in a fail safe design. In the event of spider failure, the aluminum hubs lock together and continue power transmission, allowing the application to be safely shut down for maintenance. Spiders can be replaced to restore the original performance characteristics of the coupling – this is significantly less expensive when compared to other coupling styles that require complete replacement at the end of their service life. Bores are available in sizes from 1/8” to 1-1/4” and 3mm to 32mm. The three piece design allows the user to mix and match clamp or set screw hubs with inch, metric, or keyless bores making it easier to tailor the coupling to specific system requirements.
