FLEXIBLE COUPLING FOR A DRIVE TRAIN

Abstract

A flexible coupling for a drive train, the coupling having a drive yoke, a driven yoke, and a connector for transferring rotational torque between the yokes. The drive and driven yokes are manually inserted into slots in the connector. The drive yoke connects to a drive shaft and the driven yoke connects to a driven shaft. Rotating the drive shaft rotates the drive yoke against the connector causing it to rotate; which in turn transfers torque to and rotates the driven yoke. Surfaces on the yokes and connector that contact one another during rotation define contact surfaces. Portions of the yokes and/or connector having the contact surfaces are obliquely profiled so that contact surfaces on the yokes are complementary to corresponding contact surfaces on the connector, which increases the areas of force transfer between the yokes and connectors to reduce stress concentrations.

Claims

1. A method of operating a drive train comprising: obtaining a connector comprising a main body having a first slot a second slot and a socket formed in the first slot; obtaining a first yoke comprising a first yoke arm having a pivot; obtaining a second yoke comprising a second yoke arm; inserting the first yoke arm into the first slot so that the pivot is within the socket; inserting the second yoke arm into the second slot; and rotating the second yoke by rotating the first yoke.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the pivot comprises a male convex profile and the socket comprises a female concave profile.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of a contact surface on the first yoke arm is oblique with a corresponding first contact surface on the connector when the first yoke arm is inserted in the first slot and in a first position that is out of contact with the first slot sidewalls, and wherein the portion of the contact surfaces on the first yoke arm is substantially in complementary contact with the connector first contact surface when the first yoke is in a second position.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein a second yoke contact surface is defined on a portion of the second yoke arm and a connector second contact surface is defined on a portion of the connector, wherein the second yoke contact surface is oblique to the connector second contact surface when the second yoke arm is inserted into the second slot and out of contact with the second slot sidewalls, and the second yoke contact surface is substantially in complementary contact with the connector second contact surface when the first yoke is rotated from the second position to a third position.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein rotating the second yoke adjusts a solar panel that is coupled with the second yoke.

6. The method of claim 1, the first yoke further comprising another first yoke arm that is inserted into the first slot.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein the second slot comprises sidewalls on opposing sides of the second slot that are profiled to define a socket within the second slot, the socket having an axis that extends in a direction perpendicular to a side of the connector, and wherein a pivot is on a free end of the second yoke arm and that inserts into the socket and is pivotable about the socket axis.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein the first yoke arm is configured to be manually inserted into the first slot of the connector and the second yoke arm is configured to be manually inserted into second slot of the connector, the method further comprising using a pin to retain one of the first or second yokes to the connector.

9. A coupling assembly for use with a drive train comprising: a connector comprising a main body, a first slot formed in the main body and having a portion that defines a socket, a connector first contact surface in the first slot, a second slot on a side of the connector main body facing away from the first slot, and a connector second contact surface on the second slot sidewalls; a first yoke having a first yoke arm configured to be manually insertable into the first slot and a pivot on an end of the first yoke arm that is in interfering contact with the socket when the first yoke arm is inserted into the first slot; a second yoke having a second yoke arm configured to be manually insertable into the second slot, so that when the first yoke is rotated, torque is transferred through the connector to rotate the second yoke.

10. The coupling assembly of claim 9, wherein the first yoke is rotatable from a first position that is out of contact with the connector to a second position that is in contact with the connector, the first yoke comprising, an end selectively coupled with a drive shaft, a first yoke contact surface having a portion that is oriented oblique with the connector first contact surface when the first yoke is in the first position and the portion of the first yoke contact surface being in complementary contact with the connector first contact surface when the first yoke is in the second position.

11. The coupling assembly of claim 9, wherein the length of the first yoke contact surface follows a generally circular path.

12. The coupling assembly of claim 10, wherein the first yoke is further rotatable to a third position that rotates the connector in the same angular direction as the first yoke.

13. The coupling assembly of claim 12, wherein rotating the first yoke from about 0.5° to about 3° in a first direction moves the first yoke from the first to the second position, and wherein further rotating the first yoke from about 0.5° to about 3° in the first direction moves the first yoke from the second to the third position.

14. The coupling assembly of claim 13 the second yoke arm comprising, a second yoke contact surface having a portion that is oblique to a connector second contact surface on the driven slot sidewalls when the second yoke arm is inserted into the second slot and out of contact with the second slot sidewalls and when the first yoke is in the first position, and wherein when the first yoke is rotated into the third position the portion of the second yoke contact surface is in complementary contact with the connector second contact surface.

15. The coupling assembly of claim 9, wherein a width of the first yoke contact surface spans along and is oblique to a horizontal axis of the first yoke, and wherein a length of the first yoke contact surface is curved and spans along a lengthwise axis of the first yoke.

16. The coupling assembly of claim 9, further comprising another first yoke arm, another second yoke arm, another connector first contact surface, and another connector second contact surface, wherein contact surfaces are on the first yoke arm and the another first yoke arm that face away from one another, and wherein contact surfaces are on the second yoke arm and the another second yoke arm that face away from one another.

17. The coupling assembly of claim 16, wherein when the first yoke is rotated to a second position portions of the first yoke arm and the another yoke arm are in complementary contact with portions of connector first contact surfaces, and wherein when the first yoke is rotated to a third position, connector second contact surfaces have portions that are in complementary contact with contact surfaces on the second yoke arm and the another second yoke arm.

18. The coupling assembly of claim 11, wherein the first and second slots extend generally transverse to one another through a main body of the connector, and wherein a fastener couples the first and second yokes.

19. A coupling assembly for use with a drive train comprising: a first yoke; a second yoke; a connector having a portion coupled to the first yoke and another portion coupled to the second yoke; and a pin selectively inserted into coupling engagement with the first yoke and with the second yoke.

20. The coupling assembly of claim 19, wherein the connector defines a means for transferring rotation between the first yoke and second yoke.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0009] Some of the features and benefits of the present invention having been stated, others will become apparent as the description proceeds when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0010] FIGS. 1A and 1B respectively are overhead and side sectional perspective views of an example of a solar array system.

[0011] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an example of a coupling assembly for use with the solar array system of FIG. 1.

[0012] FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the coupling assembly of FIG. 2.

[0013] FIGS. 4A-4C are side, front, and perspective views of an example of a drive yoke for use with the coupling assembly of FIG. 2.

[0014] FIGS. 5A-5C are side, front, and perspective views of an example of a driven yoke for use with the coupling assembly of FIG. 2.

[0015] FIG. 6A is sectional view of the coupling assembly of FIG. 2 taken along lines 6A-6A in a non-rotating example of operation.

[0016] FIG. 6B is sectional view of the coupling assembly of FIG. 2 taken along lines 6B-6B in a rotating example of operation.

[0017] FIG. 7 is a schematic example of contact surfaces on the drive and driven yokes in engagement with the contact surfaces on connector.

[0018] FIG. 8A is sectional view of an alternate example of the coupling assembly of FIG. 2 taken along lines 8A-8A in a non-rotating example of operation.

[0019] FIG. 8B is sectional view of an alternate example of the coupling assembly of FIG. 2 taken along lines 8B-8B in a rotating example of operation.

[0020] FIG. 8C is a portion of FIG. 8B and enlarged for detail.

[0021] While subject matter is described in connection with embodiments disclosed herein, it will be understood that the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to any particular embodiment. On the contrary, it is intended to cover all alternatives, modifications, and equivalents thereof.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION

[0022] The method and system of the present disclosure will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings in which embodiments are shown. The method and system of the present disclosure may be in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the illustrated embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey its scope to those skilled in the art. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. In an embodiment, usage of the term “about” includes +/−5% of a cited magnitude. In an embodiment, the term “substantially” includes +/−5% of a cited magnitude, comparison, or description. In an embodiment, usage of the term “generally” includes +/−10% of a cited magnitude.

[0023] It is to be further understood that the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the exact details of construction, operation, exact materials, or embodiments shown and described, as modifications and equivalents will be apparent to one skilled in the art. In the drawings and specification, there have been disclosed illustrative embodiments and, although specific terms are employed, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for the purpose of limitation.

[0024] An example of a solar array system 11 is shown in perspective view in FIG. 1A and in a side view in FIG. 1B. Solar array system 11 of FIGS. 1A/B is configured to track movement of the sun during the day, and as illustrated is equipped with several parallel rows 13 (three shown) aligned in a north-south direction. Included in the rows 13 are solar panels 15 (alternatively referred to as photovoltaic panels), each are shown mounted on a torque or support tube 17. In embodiments, a single tube 17 is in each row 13 and that extends a full length of the row 13. As described in more detail below, the solar panels 15 are selectively tilted to track the path of the sun during the day by rotating support tubes 17.

[0025] Further in the example of FIGS. 1A/B are mounting assemblies 19 for coupling the support tubes 17 to vertical posts 21, and also include bearings to facilitate rotation of the support tubes 17. Posts 21 are embedded in the earth or a provided foundation at selected distances apart from each other. For a tracking system, a drive shaft 23 extends perpendicular to rows 13 and engages each support tube 17 to cause pivotal rotation of each support tube 17. In an example drive shaft 23 rotates, and in alternatives drive shaft 23 moves linearly. Drive shaft 23 as illustrated engages support tubes 17 midway along the lengths of each row 13, and alternate engagement locations exist. In a non-limiting example, support tubes 17 range up to around 200 feet in length or more, and posts 21 are around 18 feet apart from each other.

[0026] Shown in FIG. 1A are clamps 27 for securing each solar panel 15 to one of the support tubes 17. In examples, clamps 27 are employed with support tubes 17 that automatically rotate, support tubes 17 that are manually rotated from one climate season to another, and also with fixed, non-rotating support tubes. Coupling assemblies 29.sub.1-n are shown mounted at each end of the drive shaft 23. In examples and as discussed in more detail below, the coupling assemblies 29.sub.1-n couple together and transfer torque between adjacent sections of the drive shaft 23. The coupling assemblies 29.sub.1-n are flexible and in embodiments when adjacent sections of the drive shaft 23 are not coaxial but oblique to one another, opposing ends of the coupling assemblies 29.sub.1-n pivot with respect to one another while attached to ends of the drive shaft 23 and/or support tubes 17 that are oblique to one another.

[0027] Referring now to FIG. 2, shown in a perspective view is an example of the coupling assembly 29 of FIG. 1; and which includes a first yoke 31 coupled to a second yoke 33 via a connector 35. As shown, the first yoke 31 includes a main body 37 which has a largely rectangular outer profile. In the example shown main body 37 has a height exceeding its width and thickness. For the purposes of illustration a coordinate axis is shown with a horizontal or lateral axis represented as A.sub.X. A forward or lengthwise axis is represented as A.sub.Z, and a vertical or height-wise axis is represented by A.sub.Y. Based on these coordinate axes the horizontal width of the main body 37 extends along axis A.sub.X, the length of the main body 37 extends along axis A.sub.Z, and the height of the main body 37 extends along axis A.sub.Y. It is pointed out though that in non-limiting examples of operation drive train 23, coupling assembly 29, and its components experience translational and rotational motion. Spatial references provided herein to any of axes A.sub.X, A.sub.Y, A.sub.Z are taken at an instant in time, or when the drive train 23 and/or coupling 29 are static, and are to provide relative locations and/or orientations of the various components described herein; and as such these spatial references may or may not accurately reflect positioning of a described component at a later point in time.

[0028] In FIG. 2 first yoke collar 39 is shown projecting from a rearward side of the main body 37 which includes a circular receptacle 41 formed within an extending along axis A.sub.Z. Splines 43 are formed along an inner surface of receptacle 41 shown oriented generally parallel with axis A.sub.z. In the example shown splines 43 engage splines (not shown) formed on an outer surface of an example of drive shaft 23.sub.n when a drive end of drive shaft 23.sub.n inserts into receptacle 41. Arms 45.sub.1,2 are shown each having a rearward end mounted on a forward side of main body 37 that is opposite from first yoke collar 39. As shown, arms 45.sub.1, 2 have generally planar upper and lower surfaces, and curved lateral surfaces that converge towards one another with distance away from first yoke main body 37. Arms 45.sub.1,2 are spaced axially apart from one another along axis A.sub.Y, and each project in a direction away from first yoke collar 39. Ends of arms 45.sub.1, 2 opposite from main body 37 are each fitted with a pivots 46.sub.1,2. In the embodiment of FIG. 2, each of the pivots 46.sub.1,2 has upper and lower surfaces that are generally planar and lateral surfaces that are curved. Rearward surfaces of each pivot 46.sub.1,2 attach to a respective one of the arms 45.sub.1,2. Forward facing surfaces of pivots 46.sub.1, 2 on a side opposite from where they attach to arms 45.sub.1, 2 are generally planar. The arms 45.sub.1,2 with attached pivots 46.sub.1,2 are shown inserted within a first slot 47 that is formed through a rearward facing side of the connector main body 48. A rearward surface 49 of connector 35 is shown opposite second yoke 33, a forward surface 50 of connector 35 is shown on a side opposite first yoke 31. An upper surface 51 is defined on the side of connector 35 having the highest elevation along axis A.sub.Y. First and second lateral surfaces 52, 53 extend between the rearward and forward surfaces 49, 50, and a lower surface 54 is on a side of connector main body 48 opposite from upper surface 51.

[0029] First slot 47 of FIG. 2 has opposing sidewalls 55.sub.1, 2, proximate the rearward surface 49 sidewalls 55.sub.1,2 are at a distance apart from one another along axis A.sub.X which at a maximum distance is almost equal to a width of the connector 35. The sidewalls 55.sub.1,2 converge towards one another forward of the rearward surface 49 and along axis A.sub.Z. Sidewalls 55.sub.1,2 extend substantially straight along axis A.sub.Y. At a distance from forward surface 49 sidewalls 55.sub.1,2 are no longer converging, and instead begin to diverge from one another and define a local minimum distance between sidewalls 55.sub.1, 2; a neck 57 is formed at the local minimum distance between sidewalls 55.sub.1, 2. Forward of neck 57 along axis A.sub.Z, the sidewalls 55.sub.1,2 follow oppositely facing concave like paths and terminate at an end wall 61 shown facing rearward that extends substantially parallel with axis A.sub.X at a base of the first slot 47. A socket portion 59 is defined inside slot 47 by the concave like path of sidewalls 55.sub.1,2 between neck 57 and end wall 61, in the example shown socket portion 59 has a length L.sub.59 along axis A.sub.Z and a width W.sub.59 along axis A.sub.X. As shown, dimensions of width W.sub.59 vary along axis A.sub.Z between neck 57 and end wall 61. The length L.sub.59 and width W.sub.59 of socket portion 59 exceeds that of pivots 46.sub.1,2 by an amount so that pivots 46.sub.1,2 are selectively rotatable with respect to connector 35 and about axis A.sub.46 of pivots 46.sub.1,2 so that pivots 46.sub.1,2 are rotatable about axis A.sub.46 of pivots 46.sub.1,2 and away from interfering contact with sidewalls 55.sub.1,2 when the arms 45.sub.1,2 and pivots 46.sub.1,2 are inserted into slot 47. As shown axis A.sub.46 is parallel to axis A.sub.Y. Further in this example, widths between opposing sidewalls 55.sub.1,2 exceed widths of arm 45.sub.1,2 along axis A.sub.Z to form a space in which arms 45.sub.1,2 are pivotable within and without interfering contact from sidewalls 55.sub.1,2. In a non-limiting example of operation pivots 46.sub.1,2 and attached arms 45.sub.1,2 pivot about axis A.sub.46, and have an angular range of pivoting motion about axis A.sub.46 that is constrained by the width of the space between arms 45.sub.1,2 and sidewalls 55.sub.1,2. In the example of FIG. 2, arms 45.sub.1, 2 are affixed to main body 37 and first yoke collar 39, so that when drive shaft 23. is engaged with first yoke collar 39 as shown, pivoting of drive shaft 23.sub.n about axis A.sub.46 in turn causes all of first yoke 31 to pivot about axis A.sub.46 and with respect to connector 35. Due to their curved outer periphery pivots 46.sub.1, 2 have widths whose dimensions vary along axis A.sub.Z and that exceed dimensions of width W.sub.59 proximate neck 57; this difference in widths interferes with movement of pivots 46.sub.1,2 in a rearward direction past neck 57. In embodiments where the components of the first yoke 31 (including the pivots 46.sub.1, 2, arms 45.sub.1,2, and main body 37) are rigidly affixed to one another, each component has the same angular range of pivotable motion about axis A.sub.46. A pin 63 is shown inserted laterally through pivot 46.sub.1, described in more detail below is that pin 63 provides a coupling means for retaining the first yoke 31 and second yoke 33 to the connector 35.

[0030] Still referring to FIG. 2, second yoke 33 is shown also having a main body 65 that has a generally rectangular like outer periphery and with arms 67.sub.1, 2 spaced apart from one another along axis A.sub.X. Arms 67.sub.1,2 project away from second yoke main body 65 along axis A.sub.Z in a direction towards the first yoke 31. The arms 67.sub.1,2 as shown have generally planar lateral surfaces, and curved upper and lower surfaces that converge towards one another with distance away from second yoke main body 65. Pivots 68.sub.1,2 are depicted formed on ends of each arm 67.sub.1,2 distal from main body 65. Pivots 68.sub.1, 2 have planar lateral surfaces and curved upper and lower surfaces. Pivots 68.sub.1,2 are also generally planar on their rearward facing side which is opposite from where they attach to arms 67.sub.1, 2. The arms 67.sub.1, 2 with attached pivot 68.sub.1, 2 are shown inserted within a second slot 69 that is formed through the rearward side 50 of connecter 35 and along a direction substantially transverse to the first slot 47. Similar to the first slot 47, driven slot 67 includes opposing lateral sidewalls 77.sub.1,2 that converge towards one another with distance away from the forward surface 50 and towards the forward surface 49, a neck 79 is formed within the second slot 69 where the distance between the sidewalls 77.sub.1,2 is at a minimum. Sidewalls 77.sub.1,2 diverge away from one another past neck 79 and follow oppositely facing concave like paths to define a socket portion 81 in the slot 69. Rearward of the neck 79 sidewalls 77.sub.1,2 terminate at an end wall 83 shown extending along path generally parallel with axis A.sub.Y and a distance from the forward surface 50. In the example shown socket portion 81 has a length L.sub.81 along axis A.sub.Z and a width W.sub.81 along axis A.sub.Y. As shown, dimensions of width W.sub.81 vary along axis A.sub.Z between neck 79 and end wall 83. The length L.sub.81 and width W.sub.81 of socket portion 81 exceeds that of pivots 68.sub.1,2 by an amount so that pivots 68.sub.1,2 are rotatable about axis A.sub.68 of pivots 68.sub.1,2 and away from interfering contact with sidewalls 77.sub.1,2 when the arms 67.sub.1,2 and pivots 68.sub.1,2 are inserted into slot 69. As shown axis A.sub.68 is parallel to axis A.sub.X. Further in this example, widths between opposing sidewalls 77.sub.1,2 exceed widths of arm 67.sub.1, 2 along axis A.sub.Z to form a space in which arms 67.sub.1,2 are pivotable within and without interfering contact from sidewalls 77.sub.1, 2. In a non-limiting example of operation pivots 68.sub.1,2 and attached arms 67.sub.1,2 pivot about axis A.sub.68, and have an angular range of pivoting motion about axis A.sub.68 that is constrained by the width of the space between arms 67.sub.1,2 and sidewalls 77.sub.1, 2. In the example of FIG. 2, arms 67.sub.1,2 are affixed to main body 65, which is affixed to driven shaft 23.sub.n+1, so that when driven shaft 23.sub.n+1 is engaged with main body 65 as shown, pivoting of driven shaft 23.sub.n+1 about axis A.sub.68 in turn causes all of second yoke 33 to pivot about axis A.sub.68 and with respect to connector 35. In embodiments where the components of the second yoke 33 (including the pivots 68.sub.1,2, arms 67.sub.1,2, and main body 65) are rigidly affixed to one another, each component has the same angular range of pivotable motion about axis A.sub.68. Due to their curved outer periphery pivots 68.sub.1,2 have widths whose dimensions vary along axis A.sub.Zand that exceed dimensions of width W.sub.81 proximate neck 79; this difference in widths interferes with movement of pivots 68.sub.1,2 in a forward direction past neck 79. Socket portion 59 of the first slot 47 retains pivots 46.sub.1,2 and socket portion 81 of second slot 69 retains pivots 68.sub.1,2 and allows for pivoting of the second yoke 33. As the width of the neck 79 is less than the width of pivots 68.sub.1,2, the second yoke 33 is restrained from the movement along the axis A.sub.Z with respect to the connector 35. In examples, first yoke 31 and attached drive train 23n are pivotable with respect to connector 35 at angular values that range up to about +/−5°, up to about +/−10°, up to about +/−15°, and all values within these ranges.

[0031] Referring now to FIG. 3, an example of the connector assembly 29 of FIG. 2 is shown in an exploded view. In this example, bores 85.sub.1,2 are shown projecting within each of the pivots 46.sub.1, 2 and in a direction along axis A.sub.Y. One of the advantages of the coupling assembly 29 is its simplicity, as it is made up of three primary components, i.e. first yoke 31, second yoke 33, and connector 35; and assembling the coupling assembly 29 is performed by manually inserting arms 45.sub.1,2, 67.sub.1,2 of the first and second yokes 31, 33 into slots 47, 69 of the connector 35 and so that arms 45.sub.1,2, 67.sub.1,2 are received by socket portions 59.sub.1,2, 81.sub.1,2. The complexity of known devices for pivoted coupling is reduced with the present disclosure by the male coupling elements on the arms 45.sub.1,2, 67.sub.1,2 (e.g. pivots 48.sub.1,2, 68.sub.1,2) having convex profiles, and the socket portions 59.sub.1,2, 81.sub.1,2 that define female coupling elements with concave profiles. Moreover, clearance exists between the arms 45.sub.1,2, 68.sub.1,2 and slots 47, 50 so that the arms 45.sub.1,2, 68.sub.1,2 insert into the slots 47, 50 freely or with nominal effort, allowing manual assembly of the first and second yokes 31, 33 and connector 35 without the need for tools or other forms of a mechanical advantage. The complementary profiling of the respective upper and lower surfaces of the pivots 48.sub.1,2, 68.sub.1,2 and socket portions 59.sub.1,2, 81.sub.1,2 enables pivoting of the first and second yokes 31, 33 with respect to the connector 35 and with one another. As explained in more detail below, when first yoke 31 pivots with respect to connector 35 the pivots 46.sub.1,2, rotate about axis A59.sub.1,2 shown extending through socket portions 59.sub.1,2, and when second yoke 33 pivots with respect to connector 35 the pivots 68.sub.1,2, rotate about axis A81.sub.1,2 shown extending through socket portions 81.sub.1,2. When assembled, and as shown in FIG. 2, pin 63 inserts through bores 85.sub.1, 2 and through an elongate slot 87 shown having a length extending along axis A.sub.Z and which is formed between the pivots 68.sub.1, 2 and arms 67.sub.1, 2. Pin 63 is shown as an elongate member, and in alternatives is a bolt, a screw, or any now known or later developed fastener that provides coupling. As illustrated, when the second yoke 33 is inserted into and retained within the second slot 69, portions of arms 67.sub.1, 2 project laterally inward and between arms 45.sub.1,2 and interfere with vertical movement of the first yoke 31 (i.e. along axis A.sub.Y). This in combination with dimensioning of the pivots 46.sub.1,2 and socket portions 59.sub.1,2 that interferes with rearward movement of the first yoke 31, couples the first yoke 31 to the connector 35. Further in the example shown, placing pin 63 so that a portion extends into slot 87 puts pin 63 in a position that interferes with lateral movement of second yoke 33 (i.e. along axis A.sub.X). This in combination with the dimensions of the pivots 68.sub.1,2 and socket portions 81.sub.1,2, that block forward movement of second yoke 33 (i.e. along axis A.sub.Z), couple second yoke 33 with connector 35. In an alternative, retaining means (not shown) are included for securing pin 63 in place as shown in FIG. 2. Examples of retaining means include threads (not shown) on the shaft of pin 63 that engage threads in one or both of the bores 85.sub.1,2. Retaining means for the pin 63 could also optionally include a spring loaded ball and detent arrangement, or a nut that threads onto an end of the pin 63. Another advantage in the present disclosure is that pin 63 provides a means for coupling together first yoke 31, second yoke, 33, and connector 35, and which also interferes with decoupling of first and second yokes 31, 33 from connector 35. Another advantage is that pin 63 is installed manually and without the need for tools or other forms of mechanical advantage. Further shown in this example of FIG. 3 is a recess 89.sub.1, 2 that is formed on opposing lateral sides of pivots 46.sub.1, 2 and circumscribing bores 85.sub.1,2.

[0032] Illustrated in FIGS. 4A-4C are side, elevational, and perspective views of examples of the first yoke 31. First yoke contact surfaces 91.sub.11, 12, 21, 22, (“91.sub.11-22”) are shown formed on upper and lower outer surfaces of each of the pivots 46.sub.1, 2. In the example shown, contact surfaces 91.sub.11-22 have widths W91.sub.11, 12, 21, 22, (“W91.sub.11-22”) whose magnitudes that are each substantially the same as magnitudes of widths W46.sub.1, 2 of the pivots 46.sub.1,2; in alternatives magnitudes of widths W91.sub.11-22 are different from magnitudes of widths W46.sub.1,2, and in a further alternative magnitudes of widths W91.sub.11-22 are different from one another. As shown in the examples of FIGS. 4A and 4C, lengthwise and along axis A.sub.Z the contact surfaces 91.sub.11-22 follow a generally curved path. Provided in FIG. 4C are examples of arc lengths AL91.sub.11, 21 of contact surfaces 91.sub.11, 91.sub.21. Shown in the example of FIG. 4A contact surface 91.sub.11 has radius r91.sub.11 and contact surface 91.sub.12 having radius r91.sub.12; in the illustrated example the convex surface 91.sub.11 has a constant radius r91.sub.11 about axis A91.sub.11 over width W91.sub.11. The convex surface 91.sub.12 has a constant radius r91.sub.12 about axis A91.sub.12 over width W91.sub.12, and so on for each contact surface, and in embodiments each radii r91.sub.11,12 have a constant magnitude along the widths W91.sub.11, W91.sub.12 (FIG. 4C) of contact surfaces 91.sub.11,12. In alternative embodiments radius r91.sub.11 and radius r91.sub.12 have the same magnitudes as each other, radius r91.sub.11 and radius r91.sub.12 have magnitudes that are different from one another, radius r91.sub.11 and radius r91.sub.12 have magnitudes that vary about axis A46.sub.1, and combinations thereof.

[0033] Referring to the example of FIG. 4B, shown is an example of the first yoke 31 in an elevational sectional view and taken along lines 4B-4B of FIG. 4C. As shown, contact surfaces 91.sub.11, 21 are each on portions of pivots 46.sub.1, 2 that are upward facing along axis A.sub.Y, and contact surfaces 91.sub.12,22 are each on portions of pivots 46.sub.1,2 that are downward facing along axis A.sub.Y. For the purposes of illustration, in the embodiment of FIG. 4B, axes A85.sub.1,2 of the bores 85.sub.1, 2 of the first yoke 31 are substantially parallel with axis A.sub.X and substantially coaxial with one another. In this example, the radii r91.sub.11, 12, 21, 22 (“r91.sub.11-22”) of each of the contact surfaces 91.sub.11-22 have magnitudes that remain substantially constant along the widths W91.sub.11-22 of the contact surfaces 91.sub.11-22; and with respect to their corresponding axes (i.e. for r91.sub.11 along A91.sub.11, r91.sub.12 along A91.sub.12 and so on). Further illustrated are that the axes A91.sub.11, 12, 21, 22 (“A91.sub.11-22”) of contact surface 91.sub.11-22 are oblique to axes A85.sub.1,2 in the X-Y plane; and in the examples shown axes A85.sub.11-22 are offset from axes A85.sub.1,2 by an angle θ. Example values of angle θ range from about 0.5° to about 3°, and in specific examples angle θ is any value between. In the embodiments shown, axis A91.sub.11 and axis A91.sub.22 are substantially parallel with one another, and axis A91.sub.12 and axis A91.sub.21 are also parallel with one another, and axes A91.sub.11,22 are oblique to axes A91.sub.12,21.

[0034] Referring now to FIGS. 5A-5C, shown are side, elevational, and perspective views of an example of the second yoke 33. Similar to the contact surfaces 91.sub.11-22 of FIGS. 4A-4C, second yoke contact surfaces 95.sub.11, 12, 21, 22, (“95.sub.11-22”) are shown formed on upper and lower outer surfaces of each of the pivots 68.sub.1,2. In the example shown, contact surfaces 95.sub.11-22 have widths W95.sub.11, 12, 21, 22, (“W95.sub.11-22”) whose magnitudes that are each substantially the same as magnitudes of widths W68.sub.1, 2 of the pivots 68.sub.1, 2; in alternatives magnitudes of widths W95.sub.11-22 are different from magnitudes of widths W68.sub.1, 2, and in a further alternative magnitudes of widths W95.sub.11-22 are different from one another. As shown in the examples of FIGS. 5A and 5C, lengthwise and along axis A.sub.Z the contact surfaces 95.sub.11-22 follow a generally curved path. Provided in FIG. 5C are examples of arc lengths AL95.sub.11, 21 of contact surfaces 95.sub.11, 95.sub.21. Shown in the example of FIG. 5A contact surface 95.sub.11 has radius r95.sub.11 and contact surface 95.sub.12 having radius r95.sub.12; in the illustrated example radius r95.sub.11 and radius r95.sub.12 each have the same magnitude at all angular positions respectively about axes A95.sub.11 and A95.sub.12, and in embodiments each radii r95.sub., 12 have a constant magnitude along the widths W95.sub.11, W95.sub.12 (FIG. 5C) of contact surfaces 95.sub.11, 12. In alternative embodiments radius r95.sub.11 and radius r95.sub.12 have the same magnitudes as each other, radius r95.sub.11 and radius r95.sub.12 have magnitudes that are different from one another, radius r95.sub.11 and radius r95.sub.12 have magnitudes that vary about axis A68.sub.1, and combinations thereof.

[0035] Referring to the example of FIG. 5B, shown is an example of the second yoke 33 in an elevational sectional view and taken along lines 5B-5B of FIG. 5C. As shown, contact surfaces 95.sub.11, 21 are each on portions of pivots 68.sub.1, 2 that are upward facing along axis A.sub.Y, and contact surfaces 95.sub.12,22 are each on portions of pivots 68.sub.1,2 that are downward facing along axis A.sub.Y. For the purposes of illustration, in the embodiment of FIG. 5B, axes A68.sub.1,2 of pivots 68.sub.1, 2 of the first yoke 31 are substantially parallel with axis A.sub.X and substantially coaxial with one another. In this example, the radii r95.sub.11, 12, 21, 22 (“r95.sub.11-22”) of each of the contact surfaces 95.sub.11-22 have magnitudes that remain substantially constant along the widths W95.sub.11-22 of the contact surfaces 95.sub.11-22. Further illustrated are that the axes A95.sub.11, 12, 21, 22 (“A95.sub.11-22”) of contact surface 91.sub.11-22 are oblique to axes A68.sub.1,2 in the X-Y plane; and in the examples shown axes A95.sub.11-22 are offset from axes A68.sub.1,2 by an angle Φ. Example values of angle Φ range from about 0° to about 3°, and in specific examples angle Φ is any value between. Optionally, magnitudes of angle θ and angle Φ are substantially the same. In the embodiments shown, axis A95.sub.11 and axis A95.sub.22 are substantially parallel with one another, and axis A95.sub.12 and axis A95.sub.21 are also parallel with one another, and axes A95.sub.11,22 are oblique to axes A95.sub.12,21.

[0036] Referring now to FIG. 6A and 6B, shown is an axial sectional view of the coupling assembly 29 taken along lines 6A/B-6A/B of FIG. 2. In the example of FIG. 6A no torque is being applied to or across the assembly 29 and its components are not rotating, which for the purposes of discussion herein is what is referred to as a static configuration or static state. Also in this example the first yoke 31 is in what is referred to as a first position. Depicted in FIG. 6 is that connector first contact surfaces 97.sub.11, 12, 21, 22 (“97.sub.11-22”) on connector 35 are shown facing and spaced away from corresponding first yoke contact surfaces 91.sub.11-22 on arms 45.sub.1,2 and connector second contact surfaces 99.sub.11, 12, 21, 22 (“99.sub.11-22”) are shown facing and spaced away from corresponding contact surfaces 95.sub.11-22 on arms 67.sub.1,2. A corresponding contact surface refers to contact surfaces that are brought into contact with one another. Referring back to FIG. 3, illustrated are examples of contact surfaces 99.sub.12,22 formed on sidewalls 77.sub.1 of connector 35 and adjacent end wall 83. Also shown on FIG. 3 is that contact surfaces 97.sub.11, 99.sub.12 each have widths W97.sub.11, W99.sub.12 and arc lengths AL97.sub.11, AL99.sub.12; where the arc lengths AL97.sub.11, AL99.sub.12 are curved along axis A.sub.Z. In alternatives, all contact surfaces 97.sub.11-22, 99.sub.11-22 on connector 35 have arc lengths that are curved. In a further alternative, contact surfaces 97.sub.11-22 each have a radius of substantially the same magnitude as a radius of each of corresponding contact surfaces 91.sub.11-22, and contact surfaces 99.sub.11-22 each have a radius of substantially the same magnitude as a radius of each of corresponding contact surfaces 95.sub.11-22. Referring back to FIG. 6A, the contact surfaces 97.sub.11-22, are shown extending laterally along a line substantially parallel with axis A.sub.X and oblique with opposing contact surfaces 91.sub.11-22. In examples in which each contact surface 97.sub.11-22 has a generally circular cross section and a radius that is substantially constant along its width, the axis A91.sub.11 of contact surface 91.sub.11 is oblique with axis A97.sub.11 of contact surface 97.sub.11. Further shown in FIG. 6A is that axes A91.sub.12, A97.sub.12 are offset from one another by an amount substantially equal to angle θ. For the purposes of clarity axes A91.sub.12,21,22, A97.sub.12, 21, 22 are not shown, but in examples these axes are oblique to one another similar to axis A91.sub.12 and axis A97.sub.12.

[0037] Referring now to FIG. 6B, shown is a non-limiting example of operation in which the first yoke 31 is rotated about axis A.sub.Z so that contact surfaces 91.sub.12, 21 interface with contact surfaces 97.sub.12, 21 and contact surfaces 95.sub.11, 21 engage contact surfaces 99.sub.11, 21. In an alternative, operation is initiated by delivering torque to the drive shaft 23 of (FIG. 1), which rotates first yoke 31 to a second position (not shown). In the second position pivots 46.sub.1,2 are rotated about axis A.sub.Z by angle θ, which moves first yoke contact surfaces 91.sub.12 and 91.sub.21 into engaging contact with connector first contact surfaces 9712 and 9721. When contact surfaces 91.sub.12, 97.sub.12 are engaged as shown, their respective axes A91.sub.12, A97.sub.12 are substantially parallel so that contact interface between contact surfaces 91.sub.12, 97.sub.12 extends substantially along the widths of one or more of contact surfaces 91.sub.12, 97.sub.12. In examples when the radii of contact surfaces 91.sub.12, 97.sub.12 are substantially the same, the contact interface between contact surfaces 91.sub.12, 97.sub.12 extends substantially along the entire arc length of one or more of contact surfaces 91.sub.12, 97.sub.12. To recap, contact surface 91.sub.12 is offset from or misaligned with its corresponding contact surface 97.sub.12 when the coupling assembly 29 is in the static configuration of FIG. 6A. Contact surface 91.sub.12 is shaped or profiled so that when engaged with the corresponding contact surface 97.sub.12 a contact interface extends substantially along one or more widths and/or arc lengths of each opposing/corresponding contact surface. An advantage of this shaping or profiling increases a contact interface area formed when the corresponding contact surfaces are in engaging contact, which distributes load transfers across the larger area to avoid force and stress concentrations. Otherwise, contact interface between opposing or corresponding contact surfaces would be limited to a smaller portion of the length of these surfaces. A further advantage is that by forming a coupling assembly where opposing/corresponding contact surfaces are spaced away from one another when in a static configuration allows the components to be assembled manually and without power assistance, such as from a hydraulic tool.

[0038] As shown in the example of FIG. 6B, further rotation of the first yoke 31 in the same direction rotates the connector 35 so that the connector second contact surfaces 99.sub.11 and 99.sub.22 come into engaging contact with the second yoke contact surfaces 95.sub.11, 22 on the pivots 68.sub.12 of the second yoke 33. In FIG. 6B, the first yoke 31 is in a third position. In an example, when moving from the first position to the second position the first yoke 31 (and connector 35) rotates from about 0.5° to about 3°, in specific examples the rotation is about 1.2°. In an example, when moving from the second position to the third position, the first yoke 31 (and connector 35) rotates from about 0.5° to about 3°, in specific examples the rotation is about 1.2°. Similar to the angular offset of axes A91.sub.12, A97.sub.12 shown in FIG. 6A, axes A95.sub.11, 99.sub.11 are offset by an angle Φ when in the static configuration and are substantially parallel when the contact surfaces 95.sub.11, 99.sub.11 are brought into engaging contact. Also shown in FIG. 6B are that contact surfaces 91.sub.21, 97.sub.21 and contact surfaces 95.sub.22, 99.sub.22 are in engaging contact, and which had been offset by angle θ or Φ when in the static configuration. In an alternative, angles θ and Φ have substantially the same angular magnitudes. Similarly, the advantages discussed above with regard to the shaping or profiling of contact surface 91.sub.12 extend to shaping or profiling of the remaining contact surfaces. Optionally, the rotation discussed above is applied in a reverse direction so that contact surface 91.sub.11 is in selective contact with contact surface 97.sub.11 and the profiled contact surface 91.sub.11 aligns with contact surface 97.sub.11 when engaged. In this example second yoke 33 operates as a drive yoke and first yoke 31 as a driven yoke, whereas when torque is transferred from first yoke 31 to second yoke 33, first yoke 31 operates as a drive yoke and second yoke 33 as a driven yoke. In alternatives, contact surfaces 97.sub.11-22 and/or 99.sub.11-22 are profiled in a way similar to contact surfaces 91.sub.11-22 and/or 95.sub.11-22. In an alternative, axes A97.sub.11-22 and A99.sub.11-22 are oblique with respect to axes A.sub.Y, A.sub.X, and axes A46.sub.1,2, A68.sub.1,2 are parallel to axes A91.sub.11-22 and A95.sub.11-22. Similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 6A and 6B, rotating first yoke 31 puts the contact surfaces on the first and second yokes 31, 33 into contact with contact surfaces on connector 35 and along their respective lengths. In another alternative, axes A46.sub.1,2, A68.sub.1,2 and axes A97.sub.11-22, A99.sub.11-22 are parallel respectively to axes A91.sub.11-22, A95.sub.11-22 to and axes A.sub.Y, A.sub.X, and compressive forces applied over time wear the contacting surfaces into profiles so that the force distribution is substantially uniform along the contact surface areas.

[0039] Illustrated in FIG. 7 is an example of engagement between the contact surfaces 91, 95 on the first and second yokes 31, 33 and with the contact surfaces 97, 99 on connector 35. In this example and for the purposes of simplicity, contact surfaces 91, 95, 97, 99 represent surfaces 91.sub.11-22, 95.sub.11-22, 97.sub.11-22, 99.sub.11-22 respectively. For the purposes of discussion herein, complementary contact refers to contact of a contact surface where the interface of contact extends substantially along the width and length of the particular contact surface. As shown in FIG. 7 contact surfaces 91, 95 are in contact with contact surfaces 97, 99 substantially along their entire widths AW.sub.91, 95 and lengths AL.sub.91, 95 and so that contact surfaces 91, 95 are shown in complementary contact. Similar to contact surfaces discussed above, contact surfaces 91, 95 of FIG. 7 are curved along their lengths. Further illustrated in FIG. 7 is an example of the area of contact surfaces 97, 99 being greater than the area of contact surfaces 91, 95 so that during operation, the surfaces 91, 95 are slidable along the surfaces 97, 99 and remain in complementary contact with surfaces 97, 99 when in sliding contact. In an example, the sliding of contact surfaces 91, 95 is generated as either the first or second yokes 31, 33 pivot with respect to connector 35. Contact surfaces 97, 99 in FIG. 7 are not in complementary contact as contact surfaces 91, 95 cover less than substantially all of their surface area.

[0040] In a non-limiting example of operation, first yoke 31 is coupled with connector 35 by sliding arms 45.sub.12 into the first slot 47 of connector 35, and then second yoke 33 is coupled with connector 35 by sliding arms 67.sub.12 into the second slot 69. Pin 63 is then inserted into bores 85.sub.12 and into slot 87 to couple the primary components of the coupling assembly 29. A drive shaft 23 is engaged with the first yoke collar 39 and a driven shaft 23.sub.n-1 coupled with an end of the second yoke 33 distal from first yoke 31. As noted above, the first and second yokes 31, 33 are combined with connector 35 and the pin 62 is inserted to form the assembly 29 manually and without the need for power or hydraulic tools. Drive shaft 23. is rotated in a direction illustrated by arrow A.sub.R about axis A23.sub.n to cause an angular rotation of the first yoke 31 and move the first yoke 31 from its first position to the second position to contact first yoke 31 with connector 35. In the second position contact surfaces 91.sub.12, 21 respectively come into contact with the connector first contact surfaces 97.sub.12, 21 and rotate connector 35 in the direction of A.sub.R. Continued rotation imparted by drive shaft 23.sub.n moves first yoke 31 into the third position that in turn rotates the connector 35 so that its connector second contact surfaces 99.sub.11, 99.sub.22 come into complementary contact with second yoke contact surfaces, 95.sub.11, 22 to thereby result in angular rotation of the second yoke 33 and the connected driven shaft 23.sub.n-1. An advantage of the complementary contact between these contact surfaces is that the forces are distributed in these contacts surfaces along a much greater surface area which lessons force concentrations unlike needle bearings and other components in similar flexible couplings. The increased force distribution lowers a concentration density and increases the life and reliability of the components in the assembly 29. Referring back to FIG. 1, in this example transferring torque or rotational force to assembly 29 from drive shaft 23.sub.n adjusts orientation of the solar panels 15 installed in the solar assembly 11. Use of coupling assembly 29 is not limited to use in solar application, and in alternatives are installed in any type of drive shaft in which torque is transmitted from one rotating member to an adjacent rotating member coupled with the coupling assembly 29; examples of alternative use include those in manufacturing, processing, actuation of the opening and closing of different devices, transportation and any other situation that involves torque transmission through a drive train.

[0041] Schematically illustrated in FIGS. 8A-8C is an alternate example of the coupling assembly 29A in which transitions T91A.sub.11-22, T95A.sub.11-22 are provided respectively on contact surfaces 91A.sub.11-22 and 95A.sub.11-22. Transitions T91A.sub.11-22, T95A.sub.11-22 represent a location on contact surfaces 91A.sub.11-22 and 95A.sub.11-22 where they undergo a change in profile. Referring specifically to FIG. 8A shown is a portion of contact surface 91A.sub.12 that is radially outward of transition T91A.sub.12 along axis A.sub.X, and which has an axis of curvature that is generally parallel with axis A.sub.X. Further in this example the portion of contact surface 91A.sub.12 radially inward of transition T91A.sub.12 and along axis A.sub.X has an axis of curvature that is oblique to axis A.sub.X; and in alternatives has an axis of curvature generally parallel with that of contact surface 97A.sub.12. Similar differences in profiles are created along surfaces 91A.sub.11, 21, 22 by transitions T91A.sub.11, 21, 22, and along axis A.sub.Y on surfaces 95A.sub.11-22 by transitions T95A.sub.11-22.

[0042] Referring now to FIG. 8B, shown is that first yoke 31A has been rotated in a counterclockwise direction about axis A.sub.Z so that surfaces 91A.sub.11, 21 touch surfaces 97A.sub.11, 21 on connector 35A; and further rotation of first yoke 31A in the counterclockwise direction rotates connector 35A putting surfaces 95A.sub.11, 21 and surfaces 99A.sub.11, 21 on second yoke 33A into contact with one another. In this example, due to the transitions T91A.sub.11-22, T95A.sub.11-22 complementary contact does not occur between surfaces 91A.sub.11, 21 and 97A.sub.11, 21 and surfaces 95A.sub.11,21 and 99A.sub.11,21 radially inward from transitions T91A.sub.11-22, T95A.sub.11-22. An example of the reduced complementary contact is shown in an enlarged detail view in FIG. 8C in which separation between the surfaces 95A.sub.22, 99A.sub.22 is shown radially inward from transition T95A.sub.22 along axis A.sub.Y. In a non-limiting example of operation, portions of contact surfaces 91A.sub.11-22 and 95A.sub.11-22 separated by transitions T91A.sub.11-22, T95A.sub.11-22 undergo wear, such as from mechanical stresses exerted onto contact surfaces 91A.sub.11-22 and 95A.sub.11-22, such that the profiles of the contact surfaces 91A.sub.11-22 and 95A.sub.11-22 on both sides of the transitions T91A.sub.11-22, T95A.sub.11-22 become substantially similar so that over time surfaces 91A.sub.11, 21 and 97A.sub.11, 21 and surfaces 95A.sub.11, 21 and 99A.sub.11, 21 are in complementary contact on both sides of transitions T91A.sub.11-22, T95A.sub.11-22.

[0043] The present invention described herein, therefore, is well adapted to carry out the objects and attain the ends and advantages mentioned, as well as others inherent therein. While a presently preferred embodiment of the invention has been given for purposes of disclosure, numerous changes exist in the details of procedures for accomplishing the desired results. These and other similar modifications will readily suggest themselves to those skilled in the art, and are intended to be encompassed within the spirit of the present invention disclosed herein and the scope of the appended claims.