[nadsab]

Hi,

I am trying to come up with a simple joint that will allow me to connect two half inch diameter aluminum rods at a 90 degree angle, and which allows them both to both rotate freely, and then lock rotation on both. Anyone have any suggestions?

[txcncman]

These joints are generally gears.

On second thought. Maybe you want a clamp block?

Some people try, but end up being so vague with poor communication. Try a drawing next time.

[Al_The_Man]

You need a Universal joint or Hardy-Spicer coupling.
However you may need two together for 90°.
Al.

[Geof]

Are this rods driveshafts or just for holding something?

[nadsab]

You need a Universal joint or Hardy-Spicer coupling.
However you may need two together for 90°.
Al.

I only need around 35 - 45 degrees max. The U joints would have to lock in place once angle is set. Can you point to an example of a locking U joint if one exists?

[nadsab]

Are this rods driveshafts or just for holding something?

No not a driveshaft. Just two rods on which a jig rests on. Jig sits on a table top.

[nadsab]

These joints are generally gears.

On second thought. Maybe you want a clamp block?

Yes that is exactly what I am trying to come up with...some kind of a clamp block that fits onto two rods.

For a clamp block to work, I would need to mount both rods to the block, and while holding one rod perpendicular to a table top, this rod would need to be able to slide up and down along the Y axis - perp to the table surface, and the other rod would need to:

a Rotate on it's lengthwise axis

b be tiltable along the Y and Z axes by around 35 degrees on the X and 45 degrees on the Y relative to the perpindicular rod.

Once set, the rods both need to be locked into position to the clamp block.

I came up with a different idea last year, but I am trying to come up with a secondary idea maybe simpler or easier to set up.

[Geof]

Have a look at the clamps and fitting used to attach dial indicators to the stem of a magnetic base. They are around 7/16" diameter not 1/2" but they perform a similar function of adjustment.

Alternatively if there is a place near you that supplies wheelchairs you may find they have clamps and fittings for attaching small switches to wheelchairs so people can activate them with their head.

Another alternative could be the clamps and fitting used to build equipment setups in chemistry laboratories.

[nadsab]

Thanks Geof will check that out I think I looked at a few sites last year but could not find anything, I will dig some more.

[Al_The_Man]

Without some kind of drawing it is difficult to know exactly what the constraints are?
But if you just need a varying angle coupler that needs to extend on one arm and then clamp, a Universal coupler Lovejoy, Inc. : Products : Couplings & Power Transmission: Universal Joints
And instead of an expensive splined shaft, a simple rod inside a tube as a sliding extension and to clamp a spring jig clamp or a toggle clamp?
Is the clamping intended to be manual or automatic?
Al.