Switchable cylindrical wedge clutch
US10578173B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 9, 2018 |
| Grant date | Mar 3, 2020 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 17, 2038 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16D15/00
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A switchable wedge clutch includes an inner race, and an outer race that has an inner surface defining a plurality of tapered regions. A plurality of wedge plate are disposed between the inner and outer races, and are moveable circumferentially about the inner race. Each wedge plate segment has a tapered outer surface configured to engage and slide relative to the tapered regions of the outer race. An actuating ring has a plurality of axially-extending tapered fingers configured to fit between two of the wedge plate segments. The wedge plate segments are wedged between the tapered regions and the inner race to lock the inner and outer race together. Axial movement of the actuating ring forces the wedge plate segments circumferentially against biasing forces of springs to unwedge the wedge plate segments from between the outer race and the inner race and unlock the wedge clutch.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.