Torque limiter
US11635112B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 17, 2020 |
| Grant date | Apr 25, 2023 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 25, 2041 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16D2500/70418
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A torque limiter device includes an input shaft having a first contact surface and an output shaft having a second contact surface. The input and output shafts are operable in an engaged position wherein the contact surfaces are brought into mechanical engagement, and a disengaged position wherein the contact surfaces are separated. A biasing mechanism provides a bias force that mechanically biases the input and output shafts in one of the positions and sets a threshold torque. An electromagnet is arranged to selectively provide an electromagnetic force that opposes the bias force when an activation current is supplied. A rotation sensor arrangement measures a respective rotation of the input shaft and of the output shaft. A controller determines a difference in rotations of the shafts and selectively supply the activation current to the electromagnet so as to disengage the input and output shafts when the rotation difference exceeds a threshold.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.