Torque overload release coupling
US4548305A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 6, 1983 |
| Grant date | Oct 22, 1985 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 6, 2003 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16D43/206
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A torque overload release clutch comprises an input, intermediate and output assemblies drivingly interconnected for rotation. A plurality of spline balls interconnects the input assembly with the intermediate assembly. A plurality of main balls disengagably, drivingly interconnects the intermediate assembly to the output assembly. Helical springs provide a reference force. When the axial force due to the applied torque exceeds the reference force, the main balls pivot and rotate so as to disengage the intermediate assembly from the output assembly by kicking the intermediate assembly axially. A latch comprising a dilating ring of balls can maintain the intermediate assembly in the disengaged position. Further, the latch balls can assume an intermediate position between the engaged and disengaged positions which facilitates resetting of the clutch.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.