Axially Biased Patents (Class 464/36)
  • Patent number: 11906268
    Abstract: User-zeroable adjustment knobs for an aiming device include a rotating member that is rotated to change a setting of the aiming device, a dial selectively couplable to the rotating member via a clutch for co-rotation therewith, and a locking mechanism that prevents the dial and rotating member from rotating relative to the aiming device when the locking mechanism is locked. The clutch is disengagable without the use of tools to allow the dial to rotate relative to the rotating member for zeroing the aiming device. The locking mechanism may include a lock release that is accessible from outside of the dial and movable relative to the dial and the rotating member to release the locking mechanism. Methods of zeroing locking adjustment knobs are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2022
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2024
    Assignee: LEUPOLD & STEVENS, INC.
    Inventor: Kyle Edward Enzinger
  • Patent number: 11890144
    Abstract: Various torque-limiting screwdriver devices, systems, and methods are disclosed. The screwdriver can include a body, a motor that is configured to rotate a screw engaged with the screwdriver, and a processor configured to control operation of the screwdriver. The screwdriver can have torque-limiting functionality, such as by monitoring the amount of torque applied to the screw and reducing or stopping rotation of the screw when certain torque-limiting criteria are met. In some embodiments, the screwdriver can be switched between manual operation by a user, and automated operation by a motor within the screwdriver. In some embodiments, the screwdriver can be attached to a robotic arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2024
    Assignee: Pro-Dex, Inc.
    Inventors: Benjamin J Sexson, Alexander M. Pfotenhauer
  • Patent number: 11882991
    Abstract: Various torque-limiting surgical driver devices, systems, and methods are disclosed. The surgical driver can include a body, a motor that is configured to rotate a drill bit engaged with the surgical driver, and a processor configured to control operation of the surgical driver. The surgical driver can have torque-limiting functionality, such as by monitoring the amount of torque applied to a drill bit and reducing or stopping rotation of the drill bit when certain torque-limiting criteria are met.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2024
    Assignee: Pro-Dex, Inc.
    Inventors: Alexander M. Pfotenhauer, Manouchehr Goharlaee
  • Patent number: 11806095
    Abstract: A surgical system includes a power tool that generates torque; a torque sensor for measuring a torque characteristic of the power tool; a user interface; at least one processor; and a memory. The memory stores instructions for execution by the at least one processor that, when executed, cause the at least one processor to: receive torque data from the torque sensor, the torque data corresponding to the measured torque characteristic; evaluate the torque data; and execute a predetermined action based on the evaluation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2023
    Assignee: MAZOR ROBOTICS LTD.
    Inventor: Ido Zucker
  • Patent number: 11784518
    Abstract: An electric motor for use with a power tool includes a rotor having a body, a stator having a plurality of electromagnetic coils surrounding the rotor, an output shaft coupled to the rotor for rotation with the rotor, and a plurality of magnets positioned within the body of the rotor. The motor also includes a mechanical magnet holder coupled to at least one of the rotor and the output shaft to engage each of the plurality of magnets. The mechanical magnet holder inhibits movement of the plurality of magnets out of the body of the rotor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2023
    Assignee: MILWAUKEE ELECTRIC TOOL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Jeffrey C. Hessenberger, Michael Kolden, Andrew T. Beyerl
  • Patent number: 11746835
    Abstract: A torque limiter assembly includes a first rotational form mounted to a driving component of rotational dive system the first rotational form adapted to receive a second rotational form mounted to a driven component, the forms rotational over a shared hub, the second form adapted to engage to and be disengaged from the first form by a plurality or disconnect assemblies spaced equally around and mounted through a sidewall of the first rotational form, each disconnect assembly a spring assisted piston and a tensioner adapted to engage a detent in the second rotational form, the disconnect assemblies operable in unison to disengage from the second rotational form from the first rotational form upon detection of breach of a torque load threshold value set for each of the disconnect assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2022
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2023
    Assignee: Brunel Corporation
    Inventor: Jerome James
  • Patent number: 11497167
    Abstract: A method and kit for extracting auxiliary power from a power source installed on or associated with an implement, and supplying the auxiliary power to an auxiliary tool associated with the implement. The invention is preferably employed in the context of an auxiliary tool, e.g., in the form of a rotary trimmer, edger or the like, associated with another power implement, such as a lawnmower, wherein the power is preferably extracted from a driven member of the implement. Advantageously, the device is easy to attach/detach, is universally locatable and/or orientable on the implement, and is easily retrofittable to practically any existing implement, such as a lawnmower deck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2022
    Inventor: William G. Pendleton
  • Patent number: 11433865
    Abstract: An electrically actuated parking brake has a single electric motor producing a torque, a first torque limiting device with a first spring force, and a second torque limiting device with a second spring force. The first torque limiting device fully transmits a first portion of the torque to a first spindle until a first clamp force overcomes the first spring force and the second torque limiting device fully transmits a second portion of the torque to a second spindle until a second clamp force overcomes the second spring force. When the first clamp force overcomes the first spring force and the second spring force overcomes the second clamp force, the first portion of the torque that exceeds the first spring force is transmitted to the second spindle by the second torque limiting device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2022
    Assignee: ZF Active Safety US Inc.
    Inventors: Kraig Gerber, Aaron Wahlfors
  • Patent number: 11370091
    Abstract: An electric ratchet wrench includes a body and a driving member rotatably mounted in the body and is rotatable about an axis. A ring gear is rotatably mounted to and moveable relative to the driving member, and the ring gear is rotatable relative to the driving member about a center axis of the ring gear. A power device is received in the body. A transmission shaft is rotatably mounted to the body. The transmission shaft has a end connected to the power device, and another end configured to switch between a meshing state meshed with the ring gear and a disengagement state disengaging from the ring gear. An elastic device biases the ring gear causing the center axis of the ring gear being inclined relative to the axis in the disengagement state and being parallel with the axis in the meshing state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2022
    Inventor: Bobby Hu
  • Patent number: 11292584
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a coupling arrangement for a driving device, wherein the coupling arrangement comprises an input, an output and a coupling, wherein the coupling is non-rotatably connected with the input or with the output, wherein the coupling furthermore comprises torque transmission means which in the coupled condition are configured to connect the output with the input for transmitting a torque from the input to the output, wherein upon exceedance of a torque threshold value in a first operating condition the torque transmission means are arranged such that the input is periodically separated from and connected with the output, and that when the torque threshold value is not reached in a second operating condition, the torque transmission means are arranged such that the input is permanently connected with the output for transmitting a torque.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2022
    Assignee: LIEBHERR-AEROSPACE LINDENBERG GMBH
    Inventors: Frederick Bassett, Anton Gaile
  • Patent number: 11253983
    Abstract: A torque screwdriver device is provided, including: a housing, including a barrel and a cover coveringly connected with the barrel; an input shaft portion, rotatably assembled with the barrel; an output shaft portion, rotatably assembled with the barrel and including a socket mechanism; a torque clutch mechanism, including a first engaging portion disposed on the input shaft portion and a second engaging portion disposed on the output shaft portion, an elastic preload member biasing one of the first and second engaging portions, and a first bearing mechanism, the first bearing mechanism including a stop member abutted against the housing, a support member and at least one low friction member disposed between the stop member and the support member, at least one of the stop member and the support member being movable relative to the at least one low friction member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2022
    Assignee: SHIN YING ENTPR CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Wen-Hung Chiang
  • Patent number: 11185723
    Abstract: A bypass knob for a pressure regulator configured for use with a facemask of a breathing apparatus has a first member having a first engagement surface and a second member having a second engagement surface positioned opposite the first engagement surface. At least one slot is formed on the first engagement surface and at least one deflectable beam having a latch is formed on the second engagement surface of the second member. When the first member is rotated in a first direction about the longitudinal axis via a first rotational torque, the latch of the at least one deflectable beam is engaged with the at least one slot to rotate the second member with the first member, and disengaged when the first member is rotated in the first direction via a second rotational torque higher than the first rotational torque.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2021
    Assignee: MSA Technology, LLC
    Inventor: Mark Flori Zanella, Jr.
  • Patent number: 11104545
    Abstract: Elevator systems are provided. The elevator systems include a traveling component movable along a guide rail within an elevator shaft, the traveling component comprising a roller guide moveably engageable with the guide rail and an overspeed safety system. The overspeed safety system includes an actuator module operably coupled to the roller guide and a safety brake operably connected to the actuator module by a connecting link, wherein a safety brake element of the safety brake is operable to engage with the guide rail to stop movement of the traveling component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2021
    Assignee: OTIS ELEVATOR COMPANY
    Inventor: Lifeng Chao
  • Patent number: 11054628
    Abstract: An adjustable night vision goggle adapter device includes: a mounting point configured to attach to a helmet; a body affixed to the mounting point and including a surface having a first half of a bearing/detent interface and a central axis; and an arm rotatable about the central axis, having: a first end including a second half of the bearing/detent interface and being configured to rotate about the central axis; and a second end configured to form a joint with a night vision goggle interface, wherein the joint is configured to be rotatable about a shaft and is further configured to be lockable into a fixed position holding the night vision goggle interface at a fixed angle relative to the rotatable arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2021
    Assignee: Norotos, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald R. Soto, Jonathon R. Prendergast
  • Patent number: 10758236
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a body, an anvil, a firing assembly, and a closure assembly. The firing assembly includes a staple driver, a deck member, and an annular array of staples. The closure assembly includes a trocar, a knob, and a limiting adjustment feature. The trocar is configured to actuate the anvil relative to the body to capture tissue between the anvil and the deck member. The knob is configured to rotate relative to the body to actuate the trocar relative to the body. The limiting adjustment feature is configured to selectively rotate the knob to actuate the trocar and the anvil proximally until tissue captured between the anvil and the deck member is compressed under a predetermined maximum clamping force. The limiting adjustment feature is configured to slip relative to the knob when tissue captured between then anvil and the deck member is compressed over the predetermined maximum clamping force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2020
    Assignee: Ethicon LLC
    Inventors: William D. Fox, Gregory J. Bakos, Joshua Uth
  • Patent number: 10730171
    Abstract: A unitary base for a torque limiting device is disclosed. The base accepting a plurality of swappable torque limiting fixtures (STLF), whereby a single unitary disposable plastic base may be utilized to form a variety of different specific torque limiting devices and a method to construct and configure such a device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2020
    Assignee: ECA Medical Instruments
    Inventors: David Ivinson, John Nino
  • Patent number: 10660269
    Abstract: A device for extracting auxiliary power from a power source installed on or associated with an implement, and supplying the auxiliary power to an auxiliary tool associated with the implement. The invention is preferably employed in the context of an auxiliary tool, e.g., in the form of a rotary trimmer, edger or the like, associated with another power implement, such as a lawnmower, wherein the power is preferably extracted from a driven member of the implement. Advantageously, the device is easy to attach/detach, is universally locatable and/or orientable on the implement, and is easily retrofittable to practically any existing implement, such as a lawnmower deck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2020
    Inventor: William G. Pendleton
  • Patent number: 10654623
    Abstract: A beverage bottle may include a vessel portion configured to contain fluid. The vessel portion may include an open end and a closed end. A cap may be configured to mate to the open portion of the vessel portion. The cap may include a butterfly valve configured to prevent the fluid from exiting the bottle when in a closed position and to enable the fluid to exit the beverage bottle when in an open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2020
    Assignee: CAN'T LIVE WITHOUT IT, LLC
    Inventors: Michael Circosta, Clay Burns, Adriana Kliegman, James Best
  • Patent number: 10213270
    Abstract: A torque applying tool suited for torquing small surgical fasteners. The tool includes a torque limiting clutch accessible when a housing of the tool is removed, so that torque limits can be sensed without subjecting the blade or working shaft to deforming forces. Torque can be adjusted by turning a nut threaded to the blade or working shaft. The torque limiting clutch is formed in interacting cam members bearing interacting ratchet surfaces, the cam members urged together by a spring located between the clutch and the housing, away from interference with torque sensing when first establishing a predetermined maximum torque of the tool. The tool is small and disposable, and includes a rubber grip coating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2019
    Assignee: Lomack Industrial Co. Ltd.
    Inventor: Brian James Cutler
  • Patent number: 9987738
    Abstract: In a hand-held power tool having a transmission and a torque clutch, which has a torque limiting coupling associated with the transmission and with which a limiting transfer element is associated, to which at least one spring element is axially applied in the direction of the torque limiting coupling, a torque level of the torque clutch being settable via a user-operable operating element at least within predefined limits, the torque limiting coupling has at least one roller-shaped latch member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2018
    Assignee: ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
    Inventors: Heiko Roehm, Ralf Windsheimer
  • Patent number: 9851695
    Abstract: A bezel assembly for a watch wherein a plurality of resilient devices, such as springs or balls, are positioned within a plurality of ramps within the case. A plurality of rod end screws are also inserted through a plurality of corresponding apertures of the bezel and into the case in order to prevent the bezel from rising up from the case when the balls are pushed up the ramps by the resilient devices. As the bezel is turned in a clockwise direction, the resilient devices exert pressure upon the balls in an upward direction toward and against the bezel so that the bezel is prevented from moving in the clockwise direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2017
    Inventors: Geoffrey H. H. Roth, Andrew Farr Archibald
  • Patent number: 9511484
    Abstract: A ratcheting screwdriver having a drive shaft for transmitting motion and torque as well as two annular drive gears and an annular driven gear, the drive gears and driven gear each have gear-engaging teeth. The drive gears have tabs and the driven gear has a plurality of flat-members. The drive gears and driven gear each have an opening that the drive shaft passes through. The screwdriver also includes at least two actuation balls and one stop ball partially disposed within a ball-housing support member, the ball housing member has an internal cavity to house the components. A user turns handle to transmit rotational torque to the tabs on the drive gears, the gear-engaging teeth of the drive gears transmit torque to the driven gear and the flat-members on the driven gear transmit torque to the drive shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2016
    Assignee: MedTorque, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin Marchant, Steve Landowski
  • Patent number: 9370367
    Abstract: There are provided torque limiting mechanisms for use in tissue clamping surgical instruments. The torque limiting mechanisms generally include a driven member, engageable with an approximating mechanism of the surgical instruments, and having a driven surface and a driving member having a driving surface engageable with the driven surface of the driven member. The driving member is rotatable relative to the driven member such that the driving surface of the driving member slips relative to or dissengages from the driven surface of the driven member at a predetermined engagement pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2016
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: Patrick Mozdzierz
  • Patent number: 9151335
    Abstract: A clutch includes an input, an output, first and second control disks, and a control. The output and the input may be releasably coupled. The first control disk may be positioned between the input and the output. The first control disk and second control disk may be coupled and the output may be moveable between the control disks. The control may apply a torque to the second control disk, establishing a relative rotation between the output and the first control disk and decoupling the output and input.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2015
    Assignee: SAFE FLIGHT INSTRUMENT CORPORATION
    Inventor: Peter R. Cordes
  • Patent number: 9039538
    Abstract: A ball-detent torque-limiting assembly has breakout means for maintaining an axial separation distance between opposing pocketed surfaces of the assembly once the primary balls of the assembly have rolled out of their pockets, wherein the axial separation distance maintained by the breakout means is at least as great as the diameter of the balls. The breakout means may include a plurality of secondary balls deployed in a breakout event. The breakout means assumes the axially directed spring load that urges the opposing pocketed surfaces together, thereby preventing the primary balls from entering and exiting the pockets in quick and violent succession following breakout and avoiding damage to the torque-limiting assembly. The torque-limiting assembly is resettable by counter-rotation following a breakout event.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Assignee: MOOG INC.
    Inventors: Kerry Randall Kohuth, Derek Pedersen, Scott A. Lee
  • Publication number: 20150135542
    Abstract: A knob sub assembly for adjusting bar clamp tension holding a chainsaw bar of a chainsaw to a chainsaw body of the chainsaw may include a cap, a nut and a feedback assembly. The nut may be threaded to facilitate engagement with a fixing post of the chainsaw body responsive to a transfer of torque from the cap to the nut when the cap is rotated by an operator. The feedback assembly may be disposed substantially between the cap and the nut to at least selectively transfer torque from the cap to the nut. The feedback assembly may provide feedback to the operator when a predetermined threshold of applied torque is reached.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2012
    Publication date: May 21, 2015
    Applicant: Husqvarna AB
    Inventor: Trent Cook
  • Publication number: 20150111650
    Abstract: A ball-detent torque-limiting assembly has breakout means for maintaining an axial separation distance between opposing pocketed surfaces of the assembly once the primary balls of the assembly have rolled out of their pockets, wherein the axial separation distance maintained by the breakout means is at least as great as the diameter of the balls. The breakout means may include a plurality of secondary balls deployed in a breakout event. The breakout means assumes the axially directed spring load that urges the opposing pocketed surfaces together, thereby preventing the primary balls from entering and exiting the pockets in quick and violent succession following breakout and avoiding damage to the torque-limiting assembly. The torque-limiting assembly is resettable by counter-rotation following a breakout event.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2013
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Applicant: Moog Inc.
    Inventors: Kerry Randall KOHUTH, Derek PEDERSEN, Scott A. LEE
  • Patent number: 8992332
    Abstract: A torque limiting device, particularly for power transmission elements, is provided. The torque limiting device includes a first connecting member and a second connecting member, which is connected rotatably to a driven element. The first connecting member includes a motor driving disk and the second connecting member includes a sliding disk, and further includes a pin supporting body which comprises a drum that is assembled on the second connecting member and includes a plurality of radial holes, each one of which accommodates a pin that is pressed, toward the center of the drum, by elastic means, and abuts, with at least one of its faces which is inclined with respect to the central rotation axis of the second connecting member, against at least one corresponding abutment face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Comer Industries S.p.A.
    Inventors: Achille Brunazzi, Gabriele Gualdi, Gianni Tenca
  • Publication number: 20140309040
    Abstract: A torque limiter in which grease passages are provided to enable better lubrication of the wearing components. A disconnect nut is also provided to readily enable release of the torque limiter even for very high release sellings to afford greasing as a part of a maintenance regimen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2013
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Inventors: Randall R. Long, Ryan Jesse, Mark Rudolp, Shane Johnson, Thomas Ross
  • Patent number: 8857591
    Abstract: The invention is a torque-limited coupling element including an input and output rotatably mounted about a common rotational axis, at least one Connection which is transferred from a first position into a second position upon exceeding a settable limit torque acting between the input and the output wherein in the first position the at least one connection connects the input and the output in a rotationally fixed manner, and in the second position, the input and the output are rotatably mounted relative to one another. A displacement body is movably mounted within a chamber filled with a magnetorheological fluid with the position of the displacement body resulting from a holding force provided by the magnetorheological fluid being under influence of a magnetic field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft zur Förderung der Angewandten Forschung e.V.
    Inventors: Björn Seipel, Michael Matthias, Marco Jackel
  • Publication number: 20140256454
    Abstract: A vehicular torque limiter having a first shaft including connecting means complementary to connecting means of an end of an axle-shaft of the vehicle, a second shaft connectable to a hub assembly of a wheel of the vehicle by bolts of the wheel which are accessible, torque limiting elements, for limiting torque between the first and second shafts, thereby a drive member of the wheel which directly connects the axle-shaft to the hub assembly, is replaceable with the torque limiter, thereby providing a universal, easy to install torque limiter designed for vehicles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2013
    Publication date: September 11, 2014
    Inventor: ERAD SHIMSHIE
  • Patent number: 8727091
    Abstract: A torque limiter device comprises a rotatable input 10 having an input flange 20 associated therewith, a rotatable output 12 having an output flange 22 associated therewith, the input flange 20 and the output flange 22 having opposing transmission pockets 26a, 26b formed therein, a torque transmission element 28 locatable within the opposing transmission pockets 26a, 26b of the input and output flanges 20, 22 to transmit torque therebetween, at least one disengagement pocket 32 arranged to receive the torque transmission element 28 when the torque transmission element 28 is in a disengaged position in which torque is not transmitted between the input flange 20 and the output flange 22, and resilient biasing means 34 biasing the torque transmission element 28 towards a transmission position in which it is located within the opposing transmission pockets 26a, 26b.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Goodrich Actuation Systems Limited
    Inventor: Edward George Hill
  • Publication number: 20140135132
    Abstract: The present invention improves a ball-detent torque-limiting assembly by providing breakout means for maintaining an axial separation distance between opposing pocketed surfaces of the assembly once the balls have rolled out of their pockets, wherein the axial separation distance maintained by the breakout means is at least as great as the diameter of the balls. The breakout means assumes the axially directed spring load that urges the opposing pocketed surfaces together, thereby preventing the balls from entering and exiting the pockets in quick and violent succession following breakout and avoiding damage to the torque-limiting assembly. The torque-limiting assembly is resettable by counter-rotation following a breakout event.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Applicant: MOOG INC.
    Inventors: Kerry Randall KOHUTH, Derek PEDERSEN, Scott A. LEE
  • Publication number: 20140073440
    Abstract: A torque limiting device, particularly for power transmission elements, is provided. The torque limiting device includes a first connecting member and a second connecting member, which is connected rotatably to a driven element. The first connecting member includes a motor driving disk and the second connecting member includes a sliding disk, and further includes a pin supporting body which comprises a drum that is assembled on the second connecting member and includes a plurality of radial holes, each one of which accommodates a pin that is pressed, toward the center of the drum, by elastic means, and abuts, with at least one of its faces which is inclined with respect to the central rotation axis of the second connecting member, against at least one corresponding abutment face.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2013
    Publication date: March 13, 2014
    Applicant: Comer Industries S.P.A.
    Inventors: Achille Brunazzi, Gabriele Gualdi, Gianni Tenca
  • Patent number: 8602899
    Abstract: A torque-limiting coupling includes a main body, a torque-limiting assembly, a limiting mechanism, and a bearing. The main body forms a receiving cavity where the torque-limiting assembly is received. The assembly includes an elastic element, a pressing element, and an adjusting element. The adjusting element is adapted for adjusting compression of the elastic element. The limiting mechanism is adapted for restricting the assembly in the receiving cavity. Thereby, the torque-limitation can be kept stable, and all components can be restricted in the main body. Also, the reaction force by the pressing element is absorbed by the bearing to reduce shock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Vajra Power Industries , Inc.
    Inventor: Zai-Shun You
  • Patent number: 8382594
    Abstract: A torque limiter comprises a first body, a second body, and a biasing mechanism. The second body is rotationally attached relative to the first body. The biasing mechanism comprises at least first and second compression springs and an adjustment device. The first spring has a maximum compression condition. The first and second springs are configured and adapted to create a torque-threshold below which the second body cannot be rotated relative to the first body and above which it can. The torque-threshold is adjustable via the adjustment device throughout a first torque range and a non-overlapping second torque range. The biasing mechanism is configured and adapted such that the first spring progressively compresses as the torque-threshold increases throughout the first torque range, and such that throughout the second torque range the first spring is in its maximum compression condition and the second spring progressively compresses as the torque-threshold increases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Aunspach Controls Company
    Inventor: Dale E. Aunspach
  • Publication number: 20130012325
    Abstract: A torque limiter comprises a first body, a second body, and a biasing mechanism. The second body is rotationally attached relative to the first body. The biasing mechanism comprises at least first and second compression springs and an adjustment device. The first spring has a maximum compression condition. The first and second springs are configured and adapted to create a torque-threshold below which the second body cannot be rotated relative to the first body and above which it can. The torque-threshold is adjustable via the adjustment device throughout a first torque range and a non-overlapping second torque range. The biasing mechanism is configured and adapted such that the first spring progressively compresses as the torque-threshold increases throughout the first torque range, and such that throughout the second torque range the first spring is in its maximum compression condition and the second spring progressively compresses as the torque-threshold increases.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2011
    Publication date: January 10, 2013
    Applicant: AUNSPACH CONTROLS COMPANY
    Inventor: Dale E. Aunspach
  • Patent number: 8206226
    Abstract: In order to increase an automatic connecting speed at a torque limiting coupling, a torque limiting coupling (1) has a coupling hub (5). Driving elements (8) are adjustably held in the apertures and extend parallel to the longitudinal axis. A coupling sleeve has first recesses (23) corresponding to the apertures. A switching disc (14) is rotatably arranged between a connected position and a freewheeling position, relative to the coupling hub. The switching disc (14) can be transferred by a rolling movement of the driving elements (8) from the connected position into the freewheeling position. The switching disc (14) has second recesses (34) that engage the driving elements (8) in the freewheeling position. A first and second spring mechanism load the switching disc (14) in the circumferential and axial direction. Circumferential play (28) is formed between the driving elements (8) and the first recesses (23) in the connected position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: GKN Walterscheid GmbH
    Inventor: Klaus Kampf
  • Publication number: 20120055296
    Abstract: A torque limiting mechanism used for securing fasteners is described. The torque limiting mechanism consists of a shaft, a torque gear having a plurality of ball bearings, a threshold bearing and a variable force applying subassembly. The torque limiting mechanism further consisting of a lock bushing and retaining ring placed circumferentially around the proximal end of the shaft. The lock bushing and retaining ring reduce structural misalignments and increase the accuracy of the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2011
    Publication date: March 8, 2012
    Applicant: Greatbatch Ltd.
    Inventor: Steve Landowski
  • Patent number: 8047348
    Abstract: A clutch structure for manual hoists includes a driven wheel for driving the wind device in the manual hoist. A ratchet and at least one resilient member are sequentially and co-axially mounted on the driven wheel. A nut is screwed onto the driven wheel to prevent the ratchet and the at least one resilient member from detaching from the driven wheel. The at least one resilient member axially pushes the ratchet to make the ratchet securely abut the driven wheel, and enhance the friction between the ratchet and the driven wheel, wherein the connecting intensity is the load limit of the manual hoist. The push force from the at least one resilient member to the ratchet is adjusted, and the friction between the ratchet and the driven wheel is adjusted when the position of the nut is adjusted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Inventor: I-Te Pan
  • Patent number: 7922591
    Abstract: A clutch assembly for a UV module shutter, comprises a shutter shaft, a shutter drive arm, a clutch plate, at least one ball, a clutch thrust washer, and a spring assembly. The shutter shaft has a flange, the flange having a plurality of radially positioned flange detents. The shutter drive arm includes a drive pin, a drive arm cavity, and a receiver slot opening into the drive arm cavity, the drive pin disposable in a drive slot of a shutter end cap. The clutch plate may be disposed in the clutch plate cavity, may have a tab disposed in the receiver slot and a plurality of clutch plate detents. Each of the ball(s) may extend from one of the flange detents and may be partially disposable in one of the clutch plate detents. The spring assembly may exert a bias against the clutch plate and the thrust washer. The shutter shaft may extend through the shutter drive arm, the clutch plate, and the clutch thrust washer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Air Motion Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael L. Claeys
  • Patent number: 7905786
    Abstract: A decoupling mechanism for a power tool having a motor driving a drive shaft that drives a rotating component includes a shaft gear disposed around the drive shaft. The shaft gear has a first side and a second side. The second side has at least one shallow receiving structure and at least one deep receiving structure. At least one friction plate is disposed on the drive shaft adjacent to the first side. At least one pressure plate is disposed on or integrally part of the drive shaft adjacent to the friction plate and configured for rotation with the drive shaft. A spring assembly is biased against the shaft gear. The spring assembly includes a plate disposed around the drive shaft and a spring member. At least one cam is disposed between the plate and the shaft gear, and is configured to engage with the shallow and deep receiving structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Erin F. Eppard
  • Patent number: 7794329
    Abstract: A radial detent torque overload clutch has a retaining ring inside the outer housing to retain the hub in the housing and a thrust bearing between the ring and pawls to bear thrust loads that tend to pull the hub out of the housing. The pawls exert driving torque in only one direction so that the hub can be turned manually relative to the housing in the opposite direction by the pawls camming on gently sloped surfaces of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Assignee: Weasler Engineering, Inc.
    Inventor: Daryl J. Jaeger
  • Publication number: 20090143146
    Abstract: A clutch with a first clutch disk and a second clutch disk is provided. The first clutch disk includes at least one cylindrical shaft, in which a sphere is mounted in a displaceable fashion in each instance so as to press against a spring. The second clutch disk, which, for each shaft of the first clutch disk, includes a recess for partially receiving a sphere.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2008
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Inventor: Robert Standar
  • Patent number: 7520813
    Abstract: A torque limiter is provided with a first plate that rotates a second plate via a plurality of balls. The second plate shares the same axis as the first plate. Each ball is suitable for escaping from a respective housing in order to cease driving the second plate when the torque exceeds a predetermined threshold. Each housing includes a first orifice and a second orifice facing each other and formed respectively in the first plate and in the second plate. The torque limiter is remarkable in that it includes first and second distinct inlets for causing the first plate to turn about its axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2009
    Assignees: Eurocopter, Artus
    Inventors: Charles Louis, Patrick Quesne
  • Patent number: 7503443
    Abstract: A torque limiting device that includes a body, an output race including a distal portion extending from the body for supporting a tool that is to be controlled from the body and a proximal portion formed as a radial flange and a plurality of ball bearings disposed in a plurality of accommodating holes arranged about the flange. A first thrust member is disposed at the distal portion side of the flange and an actuator plate is providing having a peripheral ratchet surface and a plurality of holes arranged in line with certain holes in the flange. A pawl is supported by the body for engagement with the ratchet surface. A second thrust member imposes a force on the actuator plate toward the output race. The balls supported by the output race transfer axial force therethrough between the actuator plate and the first thrust member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2009
    Assignee: Seekonk Manufacturing Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Frederick P. Dobras
  • Patent number: 7441642
    Abstract: A clutch assembly is provided that includes a rotor, a stator, a clutch element disposed between the rotor and stator, and an axial force source. First and second contact surfaces are disposed on the rotor and spaced axially apart. The second surface has a smaller radial distance to a rotor rotational axis than the first surface. The axial force source is in communication with the clutch element and is configured to supply a predetermined axial force to the clutch element. When an opposing axial force is applied to the clutch element, the assembly selectively (i) engages by providing contact between the clutch element and the first clutch element contact surface, when the opposing force is less than the predetermined axial force, and (ii) disengages by providing contact between the clutch element and the second clutch element contact surface, when the opposing force is greater than the predetermined axial force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Michael J. Calmelat, David M. Eschborn
  • Publication number: 20080167134
    Abstract: The invention relates to a drive shaft, in particular a longitudinal shaft for a motor vehicle, comprising at least one hollow shaft cross-section and at least one homocinetic joint (1) whose external hub (3) is connected to the hollow shaft cross-section (8).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2006
    Publication date: July 10, 2008
    Inventor: Claus Disser
  • Patent number: 7228752
    Abstract: A gearbox for all terrain vehicles which includes an engine having a crankshaft which drives a belt transmission mechanism of a transmission case thereby transmitting power to a final axle in the gearbox via a driven axle of the belt transmission mechanism, wherein the driven axle has an end extending into the gearbox and provided with a torque release mechanism, characterized in that the driven axle in the gearbox has an end on which is mounted a torque release mechanism for releasing the momentary increased torque and power when the terrain vehicle is thrown up and down and accelerated to increase the performance of the engine as it touches the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2007
    Assignee: Kwang Yang Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chin-Wei Tang, Chao-Chang Ho
  • Patent number: 7032759
    Abstract: The invention relates to a pusher centrifuge (1) for the separation of a mixture (2) into a solid cake (3) and into a liquid phase (4). The pusher centrifuge (1) in accordance with the invention includes an outer screen drum (6) rotatable about an axis of rotation (5), a mixture distributor (7) arranged in the screen drum (6) with a pusher base apparatus (8) and an infeed device (9), with the pusher base apparatus (8) being arranged and designed such that the solid cake (3) is displaceable by means of the pusher base apparatus (8) and the mixture (2) can be introduced by the infeed device (9) via the mixture distributor (7) into an empty space (R) which arises on the displacement of the solid cake (3) by the pusher base apparatus (8).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Assignee: Ferrum AG
    Inventors: Harald Reinach, Roy Geiger