Clutch apparatuses, systems and methods
US12276178B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 31, 2022 |
| Grant date | Apr 15, 2025 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 23, 2042 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF04B47/12
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A clutch mechanism that can be used in various tools and mechanisms for holding a movable shaft in one or more preferred positions includes a clutch ring that surrounds the shaft. An interior diameter of the clutch ring is configured to closely surround and grasp one or more holding portions of the shaft. The clutch ring is configured such that the clutch ring can elastically deform to allow the shaft to move relative to the clutch ring. The clutch ring can take the form of a generally cylindrical sidewall. Openings may be formed through a thickness of the cylindrical sidewall to make it easier for portions of the clutch ring to elastically deform, thereby allowing the shaft to move relative to the clutch ring.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.