Keyed shafts
From
Introduction
Keyed shafts rotate inside an axial bearing to transmit power. Keys are fit into keyways to fix wheel adapters, gears and sprockets, and other accessories to keyed shafts.
Challenges
Power transmission often requires rotating shafts with sprockets, brakes, pulleys, gears, wheels, and many other types of devices attached in unique configurations.
Approaches
A round steel shaft with a keyway allows for similarly keyed interchangeable components to be positioned securely along it's entire length. Such a shaft can be manfactured from round stock with as little as a broach and a hammer.
