Patent ID: 7552660
Filing Date: 2009-06-30
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. 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.