Abstract: A drive release brake assembly for controlling rotation includes a wedge member carried between a pair of substantially planar facing cam plate surfaces by an axial core member. The wedge member is prevented from rotating about the core member and include axially extending, rotatable cylinders which extend into contact with the cam surfaces. When the cam surfaces are aligned, the cylinders ride on the cam surfaces to permit relative rotation between the cam surfaces and the core member. When the cam surfaces are moved out of alignment, the distance between them is less than the axial length of the wedge member, causing the cylinders to wedge tightly between the cam surfaces. Because the wedge member is prevented from rotating relative to the core member, when it is wedged or locked between the cam surfaces, the latter are also prevented from rotating relative to the core member.

Abstract: The drive release brake assembly having an axial core onto which are radially attached, equidistant and symmetrical cylinders in a quantity determined by use of the assembly, and a cam mechanism defining two identical cam surfaces held in place axially in relation to the core. The cam mechanism defines two identical cam surfaces axially held in place on any side of a locking cylinder mechanism these cam surfaces being rotatable in relation to the core.