Patent ID: 8973728
Filing Date: 2015-03-10
Classification: F16D

Abstract:
1. A torque limiting apparatus, comprising: an input shaft communicating with a first rotating end segment having a cam surface; an output shaft assembly having an output shaft and a second end segment, the second end segment having a complementary cam surface for engaging with the cam surface of the first end segment, the cam surfaces cooperating to generate separation forces between the respective first and second end segments when a threshold decoupling torque level between the input shaft and the output shaft is realized; a housing encasing the first end segment and the second end segment; and a spring supported in the housing, configured to oppose the separation forces generated by the cam surfaces, and configured to urge together the first end segment and the second end segment to remain in rotating coupled engagement while transferring torque from the input shaft to the output shaft; and a length adjustable shank and collar assembly having a collar fixed for non-rotation and free for axial translation relative to the housing and an adjuster shank provided in threaded engagement with the collar to impart length adjustment between the collar and the adjuster shank, the length adjustable shank and collar assembly provided between the spring and the housing and having a plurality of predetermined set adjustment positions corresponding with physical locations that realize specific unique axial lengths that correspond with compression of the spring and realize corresponding unique torque levels and configured to adjust compressive force on the spring to change the threshold decoupling torque level of the apparatus.