Torque limiter with trip indicator
US5901817A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 18, 1997 |
| Grant date | May 11, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 18, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16D67/02
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The torque limiter described herein is a device for preventing the transmission of torque from a drive source to a torque responsive element when a predetermined torque limit has been reached. The device also provides subsequent mechanical indication that the predetermined torque limit has been reached. The device operates by transmitting torque between two axial members, a drive member and a driven member, having a plurality of balls therebetween with the balls engaged within precisely shaped sockets contained within each axial member. As excess torque occurs, the plurality of balls cause the driven member to axially displace with respect to the drive member, engaging a set of teeth contained on the driven member with a second set of teeth aligned with the first set of teeth and restrained within the housing, thereby preventing torque transmission. The second set of teeth is allowed to rotate, relative to the housing, through a predetermined angle into a torsionally compliant mount before contacting substantially rigid structure. This allows the teeth to engage smoothly at higher operating speeds. Indication of the torque overload event is achieved by detecting the limited motion …
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.