Patent ID: 6974015
Filing Date: 2005-12-13
Classification: F16D

Abstract:
1. A one-way, bi-directional clutch, comprising: an outer casing having a first end; an input shaft that is rotationally supported by the first end of the outer casing, the input shaft having a flange with an input shaft release cam means; an output shaft that is rotationally supported by a second end of the outer casing, the output shaft having a flange with an output shaft locking cam means; a brake assembly comprising a brake assembly release cam means that is complementary to the input shaft release cam means, a brake assembly locking cam means that is complementary to the output shaft locking cam means, a biasing member, and at least one brake pad; wherein the brake assembly is movable between a brake position where the one or more brake pads are in contact with the first end of the outer casing and a release position where the one or more brake pads are not in contact with the first end of the outer casing; wherein the complementary release cam means of the input shaft and brake assembly are operable to move the brake assembly to the release position when sufficient torque is applied to the input shaft; and wherein the complementary locking cam means of the output shaft and brake assembly are operable to move the brake assembly to the brake position when sufficient torque is applied to the output shaft, and wherein the biasing member biases the brake assembly release cam means from the brake assembly locking cam means.