Patent ID: 7409884
Filing Date: 2008-08-12
Classification: F16D,Y10T

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for transferring torque comprising: a. a plate, said plate defining first and second surfaces and having an axis of rotation; b. a brake configured for releasable engagement with said plate; c. a first shaft, said first shaft having a first distal end rotationally coupled to said first surface of said plate; d. a first set of depressions on said first surface of said plate and said first distal end of said first shaft; e. a first set of actuating balls disposed between said first set of depressions on said first surface of said plate and said first distal end of said first shaft; f. a second shaft, said second shaft having a second distal end rotationally coupled to said second surface of said plate; g. a second set of depressions on said second surface of said plate and said second distal end of said second shaft; h. a second set of actuating balls disposed between said second set of depressions on said second surface of said plate and said second distal end of said second shaft; i. said first set of depressions and said first set of actuating balls being configured so that torque applied to said first shaft in a first direction increases the engagement between said plate and said brake to inhibit the transfer of torque in said first direction to said second shaft; and j. said second set of depressions and said second set of actuating balls being configured so that said plate transfers torque applied to said second shaft in either direction to said first shaft.