GB174482A - Improvements in pneumatic clutches - Google Patents

Abstract

174,482. Gordon, W. A. Nov. 15, 1920. Clutches, friction; securing universal-joint members on shafts; universal joints.-In fluidoperated friction-clutches, particularly applicable to slow-running machinery, such as the rolling- machines of rubber, paper, and steel mills, pumps, grinders, &c., the driving-member is so connected to a hub of the driving-shaft that, in the case of misalignment occurring, it can remain concentric with the driven shaft. A hub 1, keyed to the hollow driven shaft 2, is formed with a flange 6, with which is integral a pulley, gear-wheel, or brake-drum 3. A two-part shell 4, forming a casing, is held between shoulders on the part 6 and on a ring 5 by screws 7, and by keys connecting the parts 5, 6, and engaging between the ends of the shell-halves 4. A piston 9, pressed by springs 10, slides on the screws 7 and the keys, and a rubber or other flexible diaphragm 12 is connected at its edge to the wall 6 by a clamping-ring 13, and, if circular, at its centre to the piston 9, or if annular, as shown, it is clamped to the piston by a ring 16. The ring 13 has a flange 15 engaging a groove in the piston and supporting the diaphragm 12. A flanged driving-member 22, adapted to be gripped between the parts 9, 5 when fluid, such as compressed air, is admitted through the hollow shaft 2, is connected to a hub 21 on the driving-shaft 20 by universal coupling-means, comprising flexible blades 23 loosely pinned in cylindrical housings 25, which are kept in place in perforations in the coupling parts by spring rings 26. The member 22 has friction facings 27, 28, the facing 28 being bevelled to co-operate with the ring 5 and so automatically centre the member 22. The fluid-pressure may be controllable . from several points. The clutch may be permanently engaged, when pressure is not available, by clamping-screws 29.