Abstract:
A drive shaft is configured to be disposed between a drive mechanism and a plurality of driven mechanisms and to transfer a drive torque generated by the drive mechanism to one of the plurality of driven mechanisms. The drive shaft includes a first shaft section and a second shaft section. The first shaft section has a first outer diameter, and is dimensioned to be disposed within the drive mechanism, within one of the plurality of driven mechanisms, or simultaneously within the drive mechanism and one of the plurality of driven mechanisms. The first shaft section is also configured to at least selectively engage, and thereby at least selectively receive the drive torque generated in, the drive mechanism. The second shaft section is coupled to the first shaft section and has a second outer diameter that is less than the first outer diameter. The second shaft section is dimensioned to be disposed within either the drive mechanism or one of the plurality of driven mechanisms.