Abstract: An electromagnetic-released, multi-disc, enclosed safety brake for primary use in offshore marine winch applications includes a stationary coil housing that encompasses springs that apply pressure to an armature, a pair of separator plates, three friction plates and a stationary endplate. The multi-disc brake is released by means of a DC voltage applied to the brake coil. The excited coil generates an electromagnetic force that attracts the armature across an air-gap thus reducing the spring force applied to the disc pack. The brake is applied when the DC voltage is removed from the brake coil. Various structures and methodologies for reducing vibrations in the brake are also provided.

Abstract: A self-contained clutch for diesel engines for off-highway implementation is provided. A stationary friction disc, pressure plate and endplate sandwich a pair of rotating separator discs. Attenuation of vibration damping of the rotator discs may be achieved by a centrifugal weight. A pulse-width-modulated DC motor or valve is employed in association with a hydraulic actuator to control pressure to the clutch piston. An RFID tag uniquely identifies the nature and parameters of the clutch itself and is associated with the clutch such that the controller can most efficiently operate the clutch. Heat is dissipated by an oil pump servicing the support bearings and/or by the integration of a centrifugal fan into the heat disc stack.

Abstract: An electromagnetic-released, multi-disc, enclosed safety brake for primary use in offshore marine winch applications includes a stationary coil housing that encompasses springs that apply pressure to an armature, a pair of separator plates, three friction plates and a stationary endplate. The multi-disc brake is released by means of a DC voltage applied to the brake coil. The excited coil generates an electromagnetic force that attracts the armature across an air-gap thus reducing the spring force applied to the disc pack. The brake is applied when the DC voltage is removed from the brake coil. Various structures and methodologies for reducing vibrations in the brake are also provided.

Abstract: A self-contained clutch for diesel engines for off-highway implementation is provided. A stationary friction disc, pressure plate and endplate sandwich a pair of rotating separator discs. Attenuation of vibration damping of the rotator discs may be achieved by a centrifugal weight. A pulse-width-modulated DC motor or valve is employed in association with a hydraulic actuator to control pressure to the clutch piston. An RFID tag uniquely identifies the nature and parameters of the clutch itself and is associated with the clutch such that the controller can most efficiently operate the clutch. Heat is dissipated by an oil pump servicing the support bearings and/or by the integration of a centrifugal fan into the heat disc stack.