Patent ID: 6024196
Filing Date: 2000-02-15
Classification: F16D

Abstract:
A one-way clutch comprising:(a) a first rotatable member having at a periphery thereof an annular friction surface coaxial with a rotational axis of said first rotatable member;(b) a second rotatable member;said second rotatable member being assembled to said first rotatable member so that said second rotatable member can relatively rotate around said rotational axis in a locking direction or in a free direction with respect to said first rotatable member; andsaid second rotatable member having a rocking portion rockable around a rocking axis running parallel with said rotational axis; and(c) a friction member;said friction member being wound around between said friction surface of said first rotatable member and said rocking portion;said friction member being fastened to said rocking portion; andthe tension of said friction member being adjusted according to rocking movement of said rocking portion;wherein:said friction member is given an initial tension so that said rocking portion rocks according to the relative rotational direction of said first and second rotatable members;when both said first and second rotatable members rotate relatively to each other in said locking direction, said rocking portion turns in such a direction as to tension said friction member up to a higher value than said initial tension; andwhen both said first and second rotatable members rotate relatively to each other in said free direction, said rocking portion turns in such a direction as to detension said friction member down to a lower value than said initial tension.