Torque control system

A torque assembly including a housing including a first piece, a bore, a first coupling attachment; a second piece including a second coupling attachment; a pin including a flange and a pin protrusion, where the pin protrusion protrudes through the bore of the first piece; a first washer including a compound layer adapted to contact the pin and the first piece of the housing to modify torque between the first piece and the pin; and a second washer including a compound layer adapted to contact the pin and the second piece of the housing to modify torque between the second piece and the pin.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

This disclosure relates to an apparatus comprising mating inner and outer components, which are mounted together using washer. By non-limiting example, the apparatus can be used for a torque assembly.

BACKGROUND

A torque assembly can be used to adjust, enhance, or limit the amount of torque being transferred from a torque supplying input (such as a shaft), to a torque receiving output (such as an appliance). Torque assemblies can provide rotating mechanical power in transmission systems to prevent damage to mechanical equipment. A torque assembly can limit torque or provide torque overload protection for many types of transmission systems. A torque assembly can enhance torque for many types of transmission systems. In a number of applications, the torque supplying input may be connected to a torque generating device powered by wind, water, steam, gas or the like. In a number of variations, the torque receiving output may be an electrical generator, tool, or industrial machinery requiring an input of torque for operation.

Problems can occur in torque assemblies due to overload situations, larger size and complexity of assembly, varying torque over a lifetime due to wear or abrasion of the components of the assembly, or performance of the torque assembly components being dependent on temperature or other conditions.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A torque assembly in accordance with one or more embodiments described herein can include torque assembly comprising: housing comprising a first piece comprising a first face, a bore, and a first coupling attachment, and a second piece comprising a second coupling attachment; a pin comprising a flange and a pin protrusion extending therefrom, the pin protrusion protruding through the bore of the first piece; a first washer comprising a compound layer thereon adapted to contact the pin and the first piece of the housing to modify torque between the first piece and the pin; and a second washer comprising a compound layer thereon adapted to contact the pin and the second piece of the housing to modify torque between the second piece and the pin.

In an embodiment, the torque assembly can include a housing comprising: a first piece having a central axis comprising a axial first end comprising a first face, a bore, and a axial second end comprising a flange projecting around a circumference of the first face, and a second piece comprising a axial first end comprising a first face, and a axial second end comprising a flange projecting around a circumference of the first face; a pin comprising a axial first end comprising a first face and an axial second end comprising a pin protrusion protruding from the first face through the bore of the first piece; a first washer comprising a compound layer thereon adapted to contact the pin and the first piece of the housing to modify torque between the first piece and the pin; and a second washer comprising a compound layer thereon adapted to contact the pin and the second piece of the housing to modify torque between the second piece and the pin, wherein the torque assembly is substantially free of lubricant.

An embodiment may include a method comprising: providing a torque assembly comprising: a housing comprising a first piece comprising first face, a bore, and a first coupling attachment, and a second piece comprising a second coupling attachment; a pin comprising a flange and a pin protrusion; a first washer comprising a compound layer thereon adapted to contact the pin and the first piece of the housing to modify torque between the first piece and the pin; and a second washer comprising a compound layer thereon adapted to contact the pin and the second piece of the housing to modify torque between the second piece and the pin; contacting the first washer with the first face of the first piece of the housing; contacting the second washer with the first face of the second piece of the housing; contacting the first piece of the housing with the second piece of the housing to at least partially surround the pin such that the pin contacts the first washer and the second washer, and the pin protrusion protrudes through the bore of the first face of the first piece; and rotating the assembly wherein at least one of the first washer or the second washer provides modification of torque based on the compound layer on at least one of the first washer or the second washer.

In an embodiment, the pin protrusion comprises a protrusion face comprising a non-round cross-section. In an embodiment, at least one of the first washer or the second washer comprises at least one circumferential slot along its thickness. In an embodiment, the second piece of the housing further comprises a second face comprising a housing connector. In an embodiment, the housing comprises a locking assembly comprising at least one male attachment component and at least one female attachment component adapted to lock the first piece of the housing to the second piece of the housing. In an embodiment, the compound layer of the first washer comprises a first layer comprising a first polymer and a second layer comprising a second polymer. In an embodiment, the first polymer of the first washer comprises a polyketone, a polyaramid, a polyimide, a polyetherimide, a polyamideimide, a polyphenylene sulfide, a polyphenylene sulfone, a fluoropolymer, a polybenzimidazole, a derivation thereof, or a combination thereof. In an embodiment, the second polymer of the first washer comprises a fluoropolymer. In an embodiment, the compound layer of the second washer comprises a first layer comprising a first polymer and a second layer comprising a second polymer. In an embodiment, the first polymer of the second washer comprises a polyketone, a polyaramid, a polyimide, a polyetherimide, a polyamideimide, a polyphenylene sulfide, a polyphenylene sulfone, a fluoropolymer, a polybenzimidazole, a derivation thereof, or a combination thereof. In an embodiment, the second polymer of the second polymer comprises a fluoropolymer. In an embodiment, the first washer comprises a first face comprising a washer bore contacting the pin protrusion along its circumference. In an embodiment, the torque assembly is adapted to modify the torque X between about 0≤X≤about 10 N·m between the pin and at least one of the first piece and the second piece of the housing. In an embodiment, a radius of the first washer Rw1abuts an inner radial edge of the flange of the first piece of the housing. In an embodiment, a radius of the second washer Rw2abuts an inner radial edge of the flange of the second piece of the housing. In an embodiment, at least one of the first washer or the second washer comprises a cup spring washer. In an embodiment, at least one cup spring washer has a spring rate of at least about 10 N/mm, about 25 N/mm, about 50 N/mm, about 100 N/mm, about 200 N/mm, about 500 N/mm, about 1000 N/mm, about 2000 N/mm, about 5000 N/mm, about 10000 N/mm. In an embodiment, the torque assembly has a length of no greater than 5 mm, no greater than 10 mm, no greater than 15 mm, no greater than 20 mm, no greater than 30 mm, no greater than 40 mm.

Referring initially toFIGS. 1A-3D, a torque assembly2generally includes a torque supplying input and a torque receiving output directed along a central axis100that runs axially down the cross-section of the torque assembly. The torque supplying input may be in the form of a pin4having a first end4aand a second end4b. The torque receiving output may be in the form of a housing8, having a first piece10and a second piece12. The first piece10may have a first end10aand a second end10balong the axial length of the first piece10, and the second piece12may have a first end12aand a second end12balong the axial length of the second piece12. The torque supplying input and the torque receiving output may be operatively coupled together. The torque supplying input can be coupled to a torque generating device (not illustrated) while the torque receiving output may be coupled to a machine requiring torque (not illustrated). In an embodiment, the torque receiving output may be in the form of a pin4, and the torque supplying input may be in the form of a housing8. In another embodiment, the torque receiving output may be in the form of a housing8, and the torque supplying input may be in the form of a pin4.

In an embodiment, the first piece10may include a first face13, and a first piece bore19through the first face13. The first piece10may include a first circumferential flange15projecting axially from the first face13. The radius of the first piece10of the housing8RH1may be at least 5 mm, at least 10 mm, at least 15 mm, at least 20 mm, at least 30 mm, at least 40 mm. The radius of the first piece10of the housing8RH1may be no greater than 5 mm, no greater than 10 mm, no greater than 15 mm, no greater than 20 mm, no greater than 30 mm, no greater than 40 mm. The radius of the first piece bore19of the first piece10of the housing8RH1may be at least 5 mm, at least 10 mm, at least 15 mm, at least 20 mm, at least 30 mm, at least 40 mm. The radius of the first piece bore19of the first piece10of the housing8RB1may be no greater than 5 mm, no greater than 10 mm, no greater than 15 mm, no greater than 20 mm, no greater than 30 mm, no greater than 40 mm. The first piece10of the housing8can have an axial length, LH1, as measured between axial ends10aand10b, of no greater than 5 mm, no greater than 10 mm, no greater than 15 mm, no greater than 20 mm, no greater than 30 mm, no greater than 40 mm. The first piece10of the housing8can have an axial length, LH1, as measured between axial ends10aand10b, of at least 5 mm, at least 10 mm, at least 15 mm, at least 20 mm, at least 30 mm, at least 40 mm. The first circumferential flange15may have a radial thickness TF1of be at least 5 mm, at least 10 mm, at least 15 mm, at least 20 mm, at least 30 mm, at least 40 mm. The first circumferential flange15may have a radial thickness TF1that may be no greater than 5 mm, no greater than 10 mm, no greater than 15 mm, no greater than 20 mm, no greater than 30 mm, no greater than 40 mm. The first piece10of the housing8may be made of a material conventional in the art such as, but not limited to, a metal or metal alloy, a polymer, or a composite material. The housing8first piece10may include an exterior surface11.

In an embodiment, the second piece12may include a first face23. The second piece12may also include a first circumferential flange25projecting axially from the first face23. The radius of the second piece12of the housing8RH2may be at least 5 mm, at least 10 mm, at least 15 mm, at least 20 mm, at least 30 mm, at least 40 mm. The radius of the second piece12RH1may be no greater than 5 mm, no greater than 10 mm, no greater than 15 mm, no greater than 20 mm, no greater than 30 mm, no greater than 40 mm. The second piece12of the housing8can have an axial length, LH2, as measured between axial ends12aand12b, of no greater than 5 mm, no greater than 10 mm, no greater than 15 mm, no greater than 20 mm, no greater than 30 mm, no greater than 40 mm. The second piece12of the housing8can have an axial length, LH2, as measured between axial ends12aand12b, of at least 5 mm, at least 10 mm, at least 15 mm, at least 20 mm, at least 30 mm, at least 40 mm. The first circumferential flange25may have a radial thickness TF2of be at least 5 mm, at least 10 mm, at least 15 mm, at least 20 mm, at least 30 mm, at least 40 mm. The first circumferential flange25may have a radial thickness TF2that may be no greater than 5 mm, no greater than 10 mm, no greater than 15 mm, no greater than 20 mm, no greater than 30 mm, no greater than 40 mm. The he second piece12of the housing8may be made of a material conventional in the art such as, but not limited to, a metal or metal alloy, a polymer, or a composite material. The housing8second piece12may include an exterior surface17.

In an embodiment, the first piece10of the housing8may include a first coupling component40, and the second piece12of the housing8may include a second coupling component42. The first coupling component40may pair with the second coupling component42to engage or couple the first piece10to the second piece12. The first coupling component40may pair or engage with the second coupling component42to at least partially surround the pin4. The first coupling component40may include a male attachment and the second coupling component42can include a female attachment. In an embodiment, at least one of the first coupling component40or the second coupling component42may include screw threads or other form of threads, bolts, battens, buckle, clamp, clip, flange, frog, grommet, hook-and-eye, latch, peg, nail, rivet, screw anchor, snap fastener, stitch, threaded fastener, tie, toggle bolt, wedge anchor, hole and screw combination, or may be coupled a different way.

In an embodiment, the torque assembly2may include a locking mechanism50. The locking mechanism50may pair with at least one of the first coupling component40and the second coupling component42to lock the first piece10of the housing8in place with respect to the second piece12of the housing8. The locking mechanism50may include a pin, groove and stop, nut and bolt, nut and screw, latch, handle, locking nut, tie rivet, or may be locked another way. As shown inFIGS. 1A and 3A, the locking mechanism50may include a screw50aon the second piece12, and a screw bore50bon the first piece10of the housing8to lock the torque assembly2.

In an embodiment, the second piece12of the housing8may include a housing connector or housing input/output connector60along a second face18of the second piece12of the housing8. The housing input/output connector60may connect the housing8to an additional component including, but not limited to, the torque supplying input or the torque receiving output. The housing component input/output connector60may include a male attachment. The male attachment may include a protrusion. The protrusion may have a non-round or polygonal cross-section. The housing input/output connector60may include a female attachment. The female attachment may include a bore. The bore may have a non-round or polygonal cross-section.

In an embodiment, the pin4may include a flange5. The pin4may include a pin protrusion7extending from the flange5. The pin protrusion7may be adapted to protrude through the bore19of the first piece10. The radius of the pin Rpmay be at least 5 mm, at least 10 mm, at least 15 mm, at least 20 mm, at least 30 mm, at least 40 mm. The radius of the pin Rpmay be no greater than 5 mm, no greater than 10 mm, no greater than 15 mm, no greater than 20 mm, no greater than 30 mm, no greater than 40 mm. The axial length of the pin4, LP, as measured between axial ends4aand4b, may be at least 5 mm, at least 10 mm, at least 15 mm, at least 20 mm, at least 30 mm, at least 40 mm. The axial length of the pin4, LP, as measured between axial ends4aand4b, may be no greater than 5 mm, no greater than 10 mm, no greater than 15 mm, no greater than 20 mm, no greater than 30 mm, no greater than 40 mm. The axial thickness of the flange5TFPmay be at least 5 mm, at least 10 mm, at least 15 mm, at least 20 mm, at least 30 mm, at least 40 mm. The axial thickness of the flange5TFPthat may be no greater than 5 mm, no greater than 10 mm, no greater than 15 mm, no greater than 20 mm, no greater than 30 mm, no greater than 40 mm. The pin4may be made of a material conventional in the art such as, but not limited to, a metal or metal alloy, a polymer, or a composite material. The pin may include an exterior surface29.

In an embodiment, the pin4may include a pin connector62or pin input/output connector62. The pin input/output connector62may connect the pin4to an additional component including, but not limited to, the torque supplying input or the torque receiving output. The pin input/output connector62may include a male attachment. The male attachment may include a protrusion which may be the pin protrusion7. The protrusion7may have a non-round or polygonal cross-section. The pin input/output connector62may include a female attachment. The female attachment may include a bore. The bore may have a non-round or polygonal cross-section.

In an embodiment, at least one of the first piece10, second piece12or pin4may include a metal or metal alloy. The metal can be a plate, a sheet, a woven fabric, a mesh, or metal foam. The metal can include steel, cold-rolled steel material No. 1.0338, cold-rolled steel material No. 1.0347, matt zinc-plated steel, stainless steel material No. 1.4512, stainless steel material No. 1.4720, stainless steel material No. 1.4310, aluminum, alloys, or any combinations thereof.

In another embodiment, the metal can have a coating. The coating can be a layer of another metal or alloy. In an embodiment, the coating is a metal or alloy containing at least one of the following metals: chromium, molybdenum, tungsten, manganese, iron, ruthenium, osmium, cobalt, rhodium, iridium, nickel, palladium, platinum, copper, silver, gold, zinc, cadmium, mercury, aluminum, gallium, indium, thallium, silicon, germanium, tin, lead, antimony, and bismuth.

In an embodiment, as shown in inFIGS. 1-3B, the torque assembly2may further include at least one washer20. The washer20may be provided between the pin4and at least one of the first piece10or the second piece12of the housing8. In an embodiment, as illustrated inFIG. 3E, the washer20may have a compound layer22thereon. The washer20may be adapted to modify torque between the pin4and the first piece10or the second piece12of the housing8. The washer20may be adapted to modify torque between the torque assembly2torque supplying input, and the torque receiving output. The washer20can be frictionally coupled to at least one of the pin4and the first piece10or the second piece12of the housing8. That is, the washer20can be frictionally coupled into engagement with at least one of the pin4and the first piece10or the second piece12of the housing8, which can modify the torque of the pin4and at least one of the first piece10or the second piece12of the housing8through frictional resistance.

In an embodiment, as shown in inFIGS. 1-3B, the at least one washer can include a first washer20A and a second washer20B. The first washer20A may include a washer bore16In an embodiment, at least one of the washer20or the first washer20A, may have a radius Rw1of at least 0.5 mm, of at least 2 mm, of at least 5 mm, at least 10 mm, at least 15 mm, at least 20 mm, at least 30 mm, at least 40 mm. The at least one of the washer20or the first washer20A, may have a radius RW1that may be no greater than 5 mm, no greater than 10 mm, no greater than 15 mm, no greater than 20 mm, no greater than 30 mm, no greater than 40 mm. The first washer20A bore16may have a radius RWBof at least 5 mm, at least 10 mm, at least 15 mm, at least 20 mm, at least 30 mm, at least 40 mm. The first washer20A bore16may have an outer radius RWBthat may be no greater than 5 mm, no greater than 10 mm, no greater than 15 mm, no greater than 20 mm, no greater than 30 mm, no greater than 40 mm. The washer20or first washer20A may have an axial thickness Tw1, of at least 0.5 mm, of at least 1 mm, of at least 5 mm, at least 10 mm, at least 15 mm, at least 20 mm, at least 30 mm, at least 40 mm. The washer20or first washer20A may have an axial thickness TW1 thatmay be no greater than 5 mm, no greater than 10 mm, no greater than 15 mm, no greater than 20 mm, no greater than 30 mm, no greater than 40 mm.

In an embodiment, at least one of the washer20or the second washer20B may have a radius RW2of at least 2 mm, of at least 5 mm, at least 10 mm, at least 15 mm, at least 20 mm, at least 30 mm, at least 40 mm. The least one of the washer20or the second washer20B, may have a radius RW2that may be no greater than 5 mm, no greater than 10 mm, no greater than 15 mm, no greater than 20 mm, no greater than 30 mm, no greater than 40 mm. The second washer20B may have an axial thickness TW2, of at least 5 mm, at least 10 mm, at least 15 mm, at least 20 mm, at least 30 mm, at least 40 mm. The second washer20B may have an axial thickness TW2, which may be no greater than 5 mm, no greater than 10 mm, no greater than 15 mm, no greater than 20 mm, no greater than 30 mm, no greater than 40 mm. In an embodiment, at least one of the washer20, the first washer20A, or the second washer20B may further include a cup spring washer70.

In an embodiment, at least one of the washer20, first washer20A, or second washer20B may include a compound layer22thereon. The compound layer22can include two or more layers on the exterior surface27of the washer20,20A,20B. The compound layer22can include a first layer29and a second layer31on the surface27of the washer20,20A,20B. The compound layer22can include at least one polymer. Exemplary polymers can include polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), fluorinated ethylene-propylene (FEP), polyvinylidenfluoride (PVDF), polychlorotrifluoroethylene (PCTFE), ethylene chlorotrifluoroethylene (ECTFE), perfluoroalkoxy alkane (PFA), polyacetal, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyimide (PI), polyetherimide, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyethylene (PE), polysulfone, polyamide (PA), polyphenylene oxide, polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyurethane, polyester, liquid crystal polymers (LCP), or any combination thereof. The compound layer22can include two or more polymers.

In an embodiment, the compound layer22may comprise at least two polymer coatings comprising a first polymer P1and a second polymer P2. The first layer29can include the first polymer P1, the second polymer P2, or a mixture of both, or may include an additional polymer Pn. The second layer31can include the first polymer P1, the second polymer P2, or a mixture of both, or may include an additional polymer Pn. The compound layer22can include additional layers including the first polymer P1, the second polymer P2, or a mixture of both, or may include an additional polymer Pn.

In an embodiment, the compound layer22can include two or more thermoplastic polymers. The first polymer, P1, may be a non-fluorinated thermoplastic polymer. P1can be any non-fluorinated thermoplastic polymer. In an example, P1can be selected from a polyimide (PI), a polyamidimide (PAI), a polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), a polyphenylene sulfone (PPSO2), a liquid crystal polymer (LCP), a polyetherketone (PEK), a polyether ether ketone (PEEK), an aromatic polyester (APE), a polyethersulfone (PES), a polyketone, a polyaramid, a polyetherimide, a polybenzimidazole, a derivation thereof, mixtures thereof in any weight ratio, or may be another non-fluorinated thermoplastic polymer. In an embodiment, the second polymer P2may be a fluorinated polymer. P2can be selected from any fluoropolymer. In one example, P2can be selected from a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), a modified polytetrafluoroethylene (TFM), tetrafluoroethylene-hexafluoropropylene (FEP), a perfluoroalkoxyethylene (PFA), an ethylene-tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE), a tetrafluoro-ethylene-perfluoro(methyl vinyl ether) (MFA), an ethylene chlorotrifluoroethylene copolymer (ECTFE), a polychlorotrifluoroethylene (PCTFE), a polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), mixtures thereof in an weight ratio, or may be another fluoropolymer.

The fluorinated polymer, P1, and the non-fluorinated thermoplastic polymer, P2, can be in any weight ratio. For example, the weight ratio of P1:P2can be about 1:99, about 5:95, about 10:90, about 15:85, about 20:80, about 25:75, about 30:70, about 35:65, about 40:60, about 45:55, about 50:50, about 55:45, about 60:40, about 65:35, about 30:70, about 25:75, about 20:80, about 15:85, about 10:90, about 5:95, about 1:99. In one particular example, P1is present in an equal or greater weight than P2. For example, the ratio P1:P2can be about 99:1, about 98:2, about 97:3, about 96:4, about 95:5, about 94:6, about 93:7, about 92:8, or about 91:9.

In an example, each of the polymers of the compound layer22can present at various weight percentages. For example, P1can comprise at least about 1 wt %, at least about 2 wt %, at least about 5 wt %, at least about 10 wt %, at least about 20 wt %, at least about 30 wt %, at least about 40 wt %, or at least about 50 wt % of the adhesive layer. In another example, P2can comprise at least about 1 wt %, at least about 2 wt %, at least about 5 wt %, at least about 10 wt %, at least about 20 wt %, at least about 30 wt %, at least about 40 wt %, or at least about 50 wt % of the sliding layer.

In an embodiment, the polymers of the sliding layer do not exceed certain weight percentages. For example, the weight percentage of P1is not greater than about 95 wt %, not greater than about 90 wt %, not greater than about 80 wt %, not greater than about 70 wt %, not greater than about 60 wt %, not greater than about 50 wt %, not greater than about 40 wt %, not greater than about 30 wt %, not greater than about 20 wt %, not greater than about 10 wt %, not greater than about 5 wt %, not greater than about 2 wt %, not greater than about 1 wt % of the compound layer22.

In another embodiment, the weight percentage of P2is not greater than about 95 wt %, not greater than about 90 wt %, not greater than about 80 wt %, not greater than about 70 wt %, not greater than about 60 wt %, not greater than about 50 wt %, not greater than about 40 wt %, not greater than about 30 wt %, not greater than about 20 wt %, not greater than about 10 wt %, not greater than about 5 wt %, not greater than about 2 wt %, not greater than about 1 wt % of the compound layer22.

Any one of the polymers P1or P2, or an additional polymer Pncan be modified or functionalized. The modification of at least one thermoplastic polymer includes incorporation of functional groups that improve tribological, rheological, or adhesive properties of the unmodified thermoplastic. In embodiments, modified polymers include functional groups, such as keto groups, alkoxy groups, hydroxyl groups, carboxyl groups, or carboxyl ester groups as depicted by the following formulas:

wherein the radicals R are cyclic or linear organic residues having from 1 to 20 carbon atoms.

The functional groups can be incorporated into the thermoplastic polymer (P) by addition of at least one modifying agent (M). Suitable modifying agents are, for example, maleic acid and derivatives thereof, in particular the anhydride (1) thereof, itaconic acid and derivatives thereof, in particular the anhydride (2) thereof, and/or citraconic acid and derivatives thereof, in particular the anhydride (3) thereof. Other modifying agents include methylacryl acid and derivatives thereof (4) or its isomer crotonic acid and derivatives (5), wherein R in (4) and (5) can be hydrogen, a cyclic or linear organic residue having from 1 to 20 carbon atoms.

Here, the ratio of the polymer (P) to the modifying agent (M) can be from 99.9 mol % of (P): 0.1 mol % of (M) to 80 mol % of (P): 20 mol % of (M).

For example, variation of the ratio of polymer (P) and modifying agent (M) provides for changes in the MFI (melt flow index). The MFI is determined by the mass of polymer that can extrude through an orifice of defined dimensions at a specified temperature and load within 10 minutes. In general, the load is 5 kg and the temperature is approximately the melting point of the material to be characterized. For example, PFA has a melting point of approximately 372° C. and FEP or ETFE have melting points of approximately 297° C.

In an embodiment, the MFI of the sliding layer can be from 1 to 100 g/10 min, such as from 2 to 50 g/10 min, or from 3 to 25 g/10 min.

In an embodiment, the compound layer22can be coupled to a backing layer (not illustrated), or substrate, or be on the surface of the washer27to enhance rigidity and structural support. The compound layer22can be applied to the backing layer by a coating technique, such as for example, physical or vapor deposition, spraying, plating, powder coating, or through other chemical or electrochemical techniques. In a certain embodiment, the compound layer22can be sintered to the backing layer. In a particular embodiment, the compound layer22may be applied by a roll-to-roll coating process, including for example, extrusion coating. The compound layer22can be heated to a molten or semi-molten state and extruded through a slot die onto a major surface of the backing layer. In another embodiment, the compound layer22can be cast or molded. In an embodiment, the compound layer22can be pressed or rolled to the backing layer. In a particular embodiment, pressing or rolling can occur at elevated temperatures, i.e., the compound layer22is hot-pressed or rolled. In some embodiments, an adhesive layer (not illustrated) can be disposed between the compound layer22and the backing layer.

In an embodiment, the torque assembly may be substantially free of lubricant. In another embodiment, the torque assembly2may include a lubricant on any of its components. The lubricant may include a grease including at least one of lithium soap, lithium disulfide, graphite, mineral or vegetable oil, silicone grease, fluorether-based grease, apiezon, food-grade grease, petrochemical grease, or may be a different type. The lubricant may include an oil including at least one of a Group I-GroupIII+oil, paraffinic oil, naphthenic oil, aromatic oil, biolubricant, castor oil, canola oil, palm oil, sunflower seed oil, rapeseed oil, tall oil, lanolin, synthetic oil, polyalpha-olefin, synthetic ester, polyalkylene glycol, phosphate ester, alkylated naphthalene, silicate ester, ionic fluid, multiply alkylated cyclopentane, petrochemical based, or may be a different type. The lubricant may include a solid based lubricant including at least one of lithium soap, graphite, boron nitride, molybdenum disulfide, tungsten disulfide, polytetrafluoroethylene, a metal, a metal alloy, or may be a different type. The torque assembly2may be entirely free of lubricant.

In an embodiment, at least one of the washer20, first washer20A, or second washer20B may include at least one indent71in face of the washer20,20A,20B. The indent71may increase the torque generated over the space between the pin4and at least one of the first piece10or the second piece12of the housing. The indent71may have a depth in a range of at least 0.5 mm, at least 1 mm, at least 5 mm, at least 10 mm. The indent71may have a depth in a range of no greater than 10 mm, no greater than 15 mm, no greater than 20 mm, no greater than 30 mm, no greater than 40 mm. The indent71may increase the spring force of the washer20,20A,20B. The indent71may increase the spring force of the washer of at least 0.1 N, at least 1 N, at least 5 N, at least 10 N, at least 1000 N, at least 1000 N, at least 10000 N. In least one embodiment, at least one of the washer20, first washer20A, or second washer20B may include at least one circumferential slot73along its thickness. The circumferential slot73may have a depth in a range of at least 0.5 mm, at least 1 mm, at least 5 mm, at least 10 mm. The circumferential slot73may have a depth in a range of no greater than 10 mm, no greater than 15 mm, no greater than 20 mm, no greater than 30 mm, no greater than 40 mm. The circumferential slot73may increase the spring force of the washer of at least 0.1 N, at least 1 N, at least 5 N, at least 10 N, at least 1000 N, at least 1000 N, at least 10000 N. In an embodiment, at least one of the at least one indent71, material type in the compound layer22, or at least one slots73may modify the torque of the pin4against at least one of the first piece10or the second piece12of the housing8and modify the torque of the torque assembly2via the torque providing input and the torque receiving output being connected to the torque assembly by at least one of the housing connector60or the pin connector62. The modification of torque X is capable between about 0≤X≤about 10 N·m for the torque assembly2.

A method of assembling the torque assembly2is recited. The first washer20A may be placed within the flange15of the first piece10of the housing8. The bore19of the first piece10may at least partially align with the bore16of the first washer20A. The pin may be aligned to place the pin protrusion7through the bore19of the first piece10and the bore16of the first washer20A. In an embodiment, as shown inFIGS. 1B, 2B, and 3A-C, the first piece10of the housing8and the second piece12of the housing8may encompass the pin4such that the pin protrusion7may protrude through the bore19of the first piece10of the housing10. In an embodiment, a second washer20may be placed within the flange25of the second piece12of the housing8. The pin4may be contacted with the second washer20or the second piece12of the housing8to form the torque assembly2, as best illustrated inFIGS. 1B, 2B, and 3C.

In an embodiment, the torque assembly2can be installed or assembled by an assembly force of at least 1 kg in a longitudinal direction relative to the housing8, such as at least 2 kg, at least 3 kg, at least 4 kg, at least 5 kg, at least 10 kg, or even at least 15 kg. In a further embodiment, the torque assembly2can be installed or assembled by an assembly force of no greater than 20 kg in a longitudinal direction to the housing8, such as no greater than 19 kg, no greater than 18 kg, no greater than 17 kg, or even no greater than 16 kg.

In an embodiment, the torque assembly2may be substantially free of lubricant to increase the longevity of the torque assembly2via the use of the at least one washer20. In an embodiment, the torque assembly2may be substantially noise free via the use of the at least one washer20. In an embodiment, the torque assembly may be provided with good performance over a range of conditions including temperature via the use of the at least one washer20. In an embodiment, the torque assembly may provide overload protection via the use of the at least one washer20.

A torque assembly comprising: a housing comprising a first piece comprising a first face, a bore, and a first coupling attachment, and a second piece comprising a second coupling attachment; a pin comprising a flange and a pin protrusion extending therefrom, the pin protrusion protruding through the bore of the first piece; a first washer comprising a compound layer thereon adapted to contact the pin and the first piece of the housing to modify torque between the first piece and the pin; and a second washer comprising a compound layer thereon adapted to contact the pin and the second piece of the housing to modify torque between the second piece and the pin.

A torque assembly comprising: a housing comprising a first piece having a central axis comprising a axial first end comprising a first face, a bore, and a axial second end comprising a flange projecting around a circumference of the first face, and a second piece comprising a axial first end comprising a first face, and a axial second end comprising a flange projecting around a circumference of the first face; a pin comprising a axial first end comprising a first face and an axial second end comprising a pin protrusion protruding from the first face through the bore of the first piece; a first washer comprising a compound layer thereon adapted to contact the pin and the first piece of the housing to modify torque between the first piece and the pin; and a second washer comprising a compound layer thereon adapted to contact the pin and the second piece of the housing to modify torque between the second piece and the pin, wherein the torque assembly is substantially free of lubricant.

A method comprising: providing a torque assembly comprising: a housing comprising a first piece comprising first face, a bore, and a first coupling attachment, and a second piece comprising a second coupling attachment; a pin comprising a flange and a pin protrusion; a first washer comprising a compound layer thereon adapted to contact the pin and the first piece of the housing to modify torque between the first piece and the pin; and a second washer comprising a compound layer thereon adapted to contact the pin and the second piece of the housing to modify torque between the second piece and the pin; contacting the first washer with the first face of the first piece of the housing; contacting the second washer with the first face of the second piece of the housing; contacting the first piece of the housing with the second piece of the housing to at least partially surround the pin such that the pin contacts the first washer and the second washer, and the pin protrusion protrudes through the bore of the first face of the first piece; and rotating the assembly wherein at least one of the first washer or the second washer provides modification of torque based on the compound layer on at least one of the first washer or the second washer.

The torque assembly or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the pin protrusion comprising a pin connector comprising a protrusion face comprising a non-round cross-section.

The torque assembly, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein at least one of the first washer or the second washer comprises at least one circumferential slot along its thickness.

The torque assembly, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the second piece of the housing further comprises a second face comprising a housing connector.

The torque assembly, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the housing comprises a locking assembly comprising at least one male attachment component and at least one female attachment component adapted to lock the first piece of the housing to the second piece of the housing.

The torque assembly, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the compound layer of the first washer comprises a first layer comprising a first polymer and a second layer comprising a second polymer.

The torque assembly, or method of embodiment 8, wherein the first polymer comprises a polyketone, a polyaramid, a polyimide, a polyetherimide, a polyamideimide, a polyphenylene sulfide, a polyphenylene sulfone, a fluoropolymer, a polybenzimidazole, a derivation thereof, or a combination thereof.

The torque assembly, or method of embodiment 8, wherein the second polymer comprises a fluoropolymer.

The torque assembly, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the compound layer of the second washer comprises a first layer comprising a first polymer and a second layer comprising a second polymer.

The torque assembly, or method of embodiment 11, wherein the first polymer comprises a polyketone, a polyaramid, a polyimide, a polyetherimide, a polyamideimide, a polyphenylene sulfide, a polyphenylene sulfone, a fluoropolymer, a polybenzimidazole, a derivation thereof, or a combination thereof.

The torque assembly, or method of embodiment 11, wherein the second polymer comprises a fluoropolymer.

The torque assembly, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first washer comprises a first face comprising a washer bore contacting the pin protrusion along its circumference.

The torque assembly, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the torque assembly is adapted to modify the torque X between about 0≤X≤about 10 N·m between the pin and at least one of the first piece and the second piece of the housing.

The torque assembly, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein a radius of the first washer Rw1abuts an inner radial edge of the flange of the first piece of the housing.

The torque assembly, or method of any of the preceding embodiments, wherein a radius of the second washer Rw2abuts an inner radial edge of the flange of the second piece of the housing.

The torque assembly, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein at least one of the first washer or the second washer comprises a cup spring washer.

The torque assembly, or method of embodiment 19, wherein at least one cup spring washer has a spring rate of at least about 10 N/mm, about 25 N/mm, about 50 N/mm, about 100 N/mm, about 200 N/mm, about 500 N/mm, about 1000 N/mm, about 2000 N/mm, about 5000 N/mm, about 10000 N/mm.

The torque assembly, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the torque assembly has a length of no greater than 5 mm, no greater than 10 mm, no greater than 15 mm, no greater than 20 mm, no greater than 30 mm, no greater than 40 mm.

Note that not all of the features described above are required, that a portion of a specific feature may not be required, and that one or more features may be provided in addition to those described. Still further, the order in which features are described is not necessarily the order in which the features are installed.

Certain features are, for clarity, described herein in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features that are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any subcombinations.