192 clutches and power-stop control – Clutches – Automatic
Reexamination Certificate
2002-03-05
2003-10-28
Lorence, Richard M. (Department: 3681)
192 clutches and power-stop control
Clutches
Automatic
C192S055400, C192S08100C
Reexamination Certificate
active
06637571
ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is an input engaging clutch wherein the clutch engages by turning the input to the clutch. When the input to the clutch stops turning, the clutch disengages the output from the input.
A typical electric wrap spring clutch includes an input, an output and a wrap spring, which transfers torque from the input to the output. Typically, a control piece is attached to the spring to controllably wrap the spring down onto a hub when a signal voltage is provided and the input is rotated, thereby engaging the hub. When the control signal is removed the control piece is freed allowing the spring to unwrap and disengage the hub. In some applications it is desirable to energize and de-energize the clutch each time the input to the clutch is energized and de-energized. In this configuration, however, the clutch must receive a control signal that will actuate the control piece to engage and disengage the clutch each time that the input is energized and de-energized. A clutch that allows engagement and disengagement of the input and output without requiring a control signal would be desirable in certain applications.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is directed to an input engaging clutch. The input engaging clutch has a rotatable input that is capable of being rotated and capable of being held stationary. The clutch has a wrap spring that is coupled to the input. The wrap spring has an equilibrium state and rotates with the input when the input is rotating. The clutch also has a damper mechanism that is coupled to the spring such that the damper mechanism allows the spring to change from its equilibrium state to a flexed state—either wrapping open or wrapping down—when the input is rotated. In one embodiment, the clutch has a rotatable output that is positioned relative to the spring in such a way that the output rotates synchronously with the input when the spring is in its flexed state and rotates independently of the input when the spring is in its equilibrium state.
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RPM Brochure entitled “Model SC Slip Device,” for products sold Jul. 13, 2000.
RPM Brochure entitled “Models SA/SB High Inertia Slip Device,” for products sold Jul. 13, 2000.
ACE Controls International website printout entitled “Rotary Dampers FRT/FRN-C2 and D2” (www.ace-controls.co.uk).
Karen Auguston Field, “Floating Armature Revs Up Clutch/Brake System,” Design News, May. 17, 1999, pp. 57-60.
Arnold Joseph E.
Perron Ted J.
Kinney & Lange , P.A.
Lorence Richard M.
Reell Precision Manufacturing Corporation
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