Electromagnetic clutch with permanent magnet return mechanism
US5609232A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 16, 1996 |
| Grant date | Mar 11, 1997 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 16, 2016 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16D27/004
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An improved electromagnetic clutch is provided with a permanent magnetic return mechanism. The clutch includes a rotor connected to a driven device, such as a refrigerant compressor, a flywheel connected to a driving device such as an internal combustion engine, and a contact plate assembly for transmitting torque between the flywheel and the rotor when moved from a disengagement to an engagement position by an electromagnet. Permanent magnet assemblies are used to bias the contact plate assembly into a non-engagement position when the electromagnet is deactuated. The use of permanent magnets in lieu of resilient mechanical components such as springs to bias the contact plate assembly into a return position substantially extends the service life of the clutch when it is used in conjunction with a prime mover such as a diesel engine, whose output is accompanied by momentary spikes of high torque.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.