Dual-mode torque transfer in laterally engaging drive couplers exhibiting axial misalignment with driven couplers
US9222523B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 25, 2014 |
| Grant date | Dec 29, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 25, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T74/19614
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Techniques for transferring torque between a first unit, such as a mobile machine or a robot, and a second unit, such as a fixed or stationary machine. The units are arranged such that a drive coupler of the first unit designed for delivering torque about a drive axis can engage the driven coupler, which belongs to the second unit and has a driven axis, along an engagement direction that is nearly perpendicular to the direction of the driven axis. A lateral displacement mechanism of the first unit achieves a first-order coaxial alignment between the drive and driven axes. Additional measures are provided for improving engagement, coupling and reducing the level of axial misalignment. Techniques disclosed are tolerant of imprecise alignment between the drive and driven couplers.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.