Uniform high force clutch
US5575367A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 31, 1995 |
| Grant date | Nov 19, 1996 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 31, 2015 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16D43/09
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A centrifugally-assisted diaphragm clutch having a centrifugal weight pivotally mounted to the pressure plate which contacts the diaphragm spring. During rotation of the clutch, the centrifugal weight contacts and bears against the diaphragm spring exerting upward force on the diaphragm spring and downward force on the pressure plate, thereby increasing clutch pressure. The centrifugal weight also serves to distribute pressure over the pressure plate by directing force through its pivot point and by reducing the pressure applied to the pressure plate by the periphery of the diaphragm spring. The pressure plate includes a stop which limits the rotation of the centrifugal weight to prevent the clutch from locking in the engaged position.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.