US10385927B2 - Torque limiter having over-speed protection - Google Patents

Torque limiter having over-speed protection Download PDF

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Publication number
US10385927B2
US10385927B2 US15/719,871 US201715719871A US10385927B2 US 10385927 B2 US10385927 B2 US 10385927B2 US 201715719871 A US201715719871 A US 201715719871A US 10385927 B2 US10385927 B2 US 10385927B2
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Prior art keywords
torque
input element
preload
rotational speed
limit
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US15/719,871
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US20190101169A1 (en
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Lowell Van Lund Larson
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Moog Inc
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Moog Inc
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Assigned to MOOG INC. reassignment MOOG INC. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: LARSON, LOWELL VAN LUND
Priority to US15/719,871 priority Critical patent/US10385927B2/en
Priority to CA3074117A priority patent/CA3074117C/en
Priority to EP18861940.7A priority patent/EP3688286A4/en
Priority to KR1020207007891A priority patent/KR102341958B1/ko
Priority to PCT/US2018/051983 priority patent/WO2019067303A1/en
Priority to BR112020004889-5A priority patent/BR112020004889A2/pt
Priority to JP2020513552A priority patent/JP2020535353A/ja
Publication of US20190101169A1 publication Critical patent/US20190101169A1/en
Publication of US10385927B2 publication Critical patent/US10385927B2/en
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    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16DCOUPLINGS FOR TRANSMITTING ROTATION; CLUTCHES; BRAKES
    • F16D43/00Automatic clutches
    • F16D43/02Automatic clutches actuated entirely mechanically
    • F16D43/04Automatic clutches actuated entirely mechanically controlled by angular speed
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16DCOUPLINGS FOR TRANSMITTING ROTATION; CLUTCHES; BRAKES
    • F16D7/00Slip couplings, e.g. slipping on overload, for absorbing shock
    • F16D7/02Slip couplings, e.g. slipping on overload, for absorbing shock of the friction type
    • F16D7/024Slip couplings, e.g. slipping on overload, for absorbing shock of the friction type with axially applied torque limiting friction surfaces
    • F16D7/025Slip couplings, e.g. slipping on overload, for absorbing shock of the friction type with axially applied torque limiting friction surfaces with flat clutching surfaces, e.g. discs
    • F16D7/027Slip couplings, e.g. slipping on overload, for absorbing shock of the friction type with axially applied torque limiting friction surfaces with flat clutching surfaces, e.g. discs with multiple lamellae
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16DCOUPLINGS FOR TRANSMITTING ROTATION; CLUTCHES; BRAKES
    • F16D43/00Automatic clutches
    • F16D43/02Automatic clutches actuated entirely mechanically
    • F16D43/04Automatic clutches actuated entirely mechanically controlled by angular speed
    • F16D43/06Automatic clutches actuated entirely mechanically controlled by angular speed with centrifugal masses actuating axially a movable pressure ring or the like
    • F16D43/08Automatic clutches actuated entirely mechanically controlled by angular speed with centrifugal masses actuating axially a movable pressure ring or the like the pressure ring actuating friction plates, cones or similar axially-movable friction surfaces
    • F16D43/12Automatic clutches actuated entirely mechanically controlled by angular speed with centrifugal masses actuating axially a movable pressure ring or the like the pressure ring actuating friction plates, cones or similar axially-movable friction surfaces the centrifugal masses acting on, or forming a part of, an actuating mechanism by which the pressure ring can also be actuated independently of the masses
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16DCOUPLINGS FOR TRANSMITTING ROTATION; CLUTCHES; BRAKES
    • F16D43/00Automatic clutches
    • F16D43/02Automatic clutches actuated entirely mechanically
    • F16D43/04Automatic clutches actuated entirely mechanically controlled by angular speed
    • F16D43/14Automatic clutches actuated entirely mechanically controlled by angular speed with centrifugal masses actuating the clutching members directly in a direction which has at least a radial component; with centrifugal masses themselves being the clutching members
    • F16D43/16Automatic clutches actuated entirely mechanically controlled by angular speed with centrifugal masses actuating the clutching members directly in a direction which has at least a radial component; with centrifugal masses themselves being the clutching members with clutching members having interengaging parts
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16DCOUPLINGS FOR TRANSMITTING ROTATION; CLUTCHES; BRAKES
    • F16D43/00Automatic clutches
    • F16D43/02Automatic clutches actuated entirely mechanically
    • F16D43/04Automatic clutches actuated entirely mechanically controlled by angular speed
    • F16D43/14Automatic clutches actuated entirely mechanically controlled by angular speed with centrifugal masses actuating the clutching members directly in a direction which has at least a radial component; with centrifugal masses themselves being the clutching members
    • F16D43/18Automatic clutches actuated entirely mechanically controlled by angular speed with centrifugal masses actuating the clutching members directly in a direction which has at least a radial component; with centrifugal masses themselves being the clutching members with friction clutching members
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16DCOUPLINGS FOR TRANSMITTING ROTATION; CLUTCHES; BRAKES
    • F16D43/00Automatic clutches
    • F16D43/02Automatic clutches actuated entirely mechanically
    • F16D43/20Automatic clutches actuated entirely mechanically controlled by torque, e.g. overload-release clutches, slip-clutches with means by which torque varies the clutching pressure
    • F16D43/21Automatic clutches actuated entirely mechanically controlled by torque, e.g. overload-release clutches, slip-clutches with means by which torque varies the clutching pressure with friction members
    • F16D43/213Automatic clutches actuated entirely mechanically controlled by torque, e.g. overload-release clutches, slip-clutches with means by which torque varies the clutching pressure with friction members with axially applied torque-limiting friction surfaces
    • F16D43/215Automatic clutches actuated entirely mechanically controlled by torque, e.g. overload-release clutches, slip-clutches with means by which torque varies the clutching pressure with friction members with axially applied torque-limiting friction surfaces with flat friction surfaces, e.g. discs
    • F16D43/216Automatic clutches actuated entirely mechanically controlled by torque, e.g. overload-release clutches, slip-clutches with means by which torque varies the clutching pressure with friction members with axially applied torque-limiting friction surfaces with flat friction surfaces, e.g. discs with multiple lamellae
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16DCOUPLINGS FOR TRANSMITTING ROTATION; CLUTCHES; BRAKES
    • F16D43/00Automatic clutches
    • F16D43/02Automatic clutches actuated entirely mechanically
    • F16D43/22Automatic clutches actuated entirely mechanically controlled by both speed and torque
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16DCOUPLINGS FOR TRANSMITTING ROTATION; CLUTCHES; BRAKES
    • F16D43/00Automatic clutches
    • F16D43/02Automatic clutches actuated entirely mechanically
    • F16D43/04Automatic clutches actuated entirely mechanically controlled by angular speed
    • F16D43/14Automatic clutches actuated entirely mechanically controlled by angular speed with centrifugal masses actuating the clutching members directly in a direction which has at least a radial component; with centrifugal masses themselves being the clutching members
    • F16D2043/145Automatic clutches actuated entirely mechanically controlled by angular speed with centrifugal masses actuating the clutching members directly in a direction which has at least a radial component; with centrifugal masses themselves being the clutching members the centrifugal masses being pivoting

Definitions

  • the present invention relates generally to torque limiters for preventing the transmission of torque from a driving element to a torque responsive element when a predetermined torque limit has been reached. More specifically, the present invention relates to a torque limiter configured to lockup when the driving element experiences a rotational over-speed condition.
  • Torque limiters are used in aircraft flight control systems to prevent the transmission of excess torque from a drive unit when a flight control surface actuated by the drive unit becomes jammed.
  • Flight control surfaces include, for example, a trailing edge flap on a wing.
  • a torque limiter commonly includes an input element coupled to an output element through a braking mechanism responsive to an over-torque condition, as may be experienced when the output element is prevented from rotation due to a malfunction.
  • the braking mechanism includes an axially displaceable braking element that transmits rotation from the input element to the output element during normal operation.
  • the braking element is spring-biased in an axial direction toward the input element, and a plurality of angularly spaced balls are received in opposing recessed pockets in the input element and the braking element.
  • the balls roll out of the pockets and axially displace the braking element against the spring bias into frictional engagement with grounded disc brakes to frictionally brake rotation of the input and output elements.
  • torque limiters of the type described above are effective in preventing damage to mechanical drive components caused by over-torque, they do not provide any protection when an over-speed condition is experienced.
  • an over-speed condition may occur if a torque tube that transmits torque to aircraft control surfaces undergoes failure and load is suddenly removed from the output element, thereby causing the input and output elements to rotate at a dangerously high number of revolutions per minute.
  • the invention provides an apparatus for connecting a rotational drive member to a rotational driven member, wherein the apparatus brakes rotation when either the torque transmitted between the members exceeds a predetermined torque limit or the rotational speed of the drive member exceeds a predetermined rotational speed limit.
  • the apparatus generally comprises a structural ground, a rotatable input element coupled to the drive member and a rotatable output element coupled to the driven member, a torque limiter configured to actuate a braking mechanism when the torque limit is exceeded to brake rotation, and an over-speed governor configured to trigger the torque limiter braking mechanism when the rotational speed of the input element exceeds the rotational speed limit.
  • the torque limiter includes a torque limit setting spring having a preload which defines the torque limit
  • the over-speed governor acts to reduce the preload of the torque limit setting spring when the rotational speed limit is exceeded, thereby reducing the torque limit needed to trigger the torque limiter so that actuation of the torque limiter is caused by any applied torque.
  • the over-speed governor may include a preload setting shaft engaging the torque limit setting spring, wherein the preload setting shaft is axially displaceable relative to a structural ground to set the preload of the torque limit setting spring.
  • the over-speed governor of the first embodiment may also include at least one fly weight arranged on the input element for releasably holding the preload setting shaft in an axial setting position relative to the structural ground.
  • the fly weight may directly engage the preload setting shaft in the manner of a sear, or it may radially confine a separate sear element for maintaining the preload setting shaft in its axial setting position.
  • each fly weight moves radially outward by centrifugal force, thereby releasing the preload setting shaft to permit axial displacement of the preload setting shaft relative to the structural ground.
  • the preload setting shaft is displaced by the torque limit setting spring relative to the structural ground, thereby reducing the preload. All or substantially all of the preload on the torque limit setting spring may be removed such that the over-speed governor reduces the torque limit to substantially zero torque and the torque limiter will be triggered by any transmitted torque.
  • the first embodiment may include means for resetting the torque limiter and over-speed governor for continued operation.
  • the preload setting shaft may be urged back into its axial setting position against the bias of the torque limit setting spring by pressing an axially movable push button engaging an end of the preload setting shaft, inserting a puller tool into a tapped hole at an opposite end of the preload setting shaft and pulling the preload setting shaft, and/or introducing pressurized fluid into a cavity between the output element and the end of the preload setting shaft.
  • the fly weights of the over-speed governor may be spring-biased to return to a radially inward position for holding the preload setting shaft upon its return to the axial setting position.
  • the over-speed governor is configured to add drag torque to the grounding brake of the torque limiter when the rotational speed limit is exceeded, thereby triggering the torque limiter to fully brake rotation.
  • the over-speed governor of the second embodiment may include at least one fly weight arranged on a rotatable braking member of the torque limiter that is coupled to the input element. The at least one fly weight moves by centrifugal force when the rotational speed of the input element and coupled braking element exceed the rotational speed limit such that the fly weight applies axially directed force to disc brakes of the torque limiter to increase torque transmitted between the input and output elements. As a result, the torque limit is exceed and the torque limiter responds in the known manner to stop rotation.
  • the over-speed governor of the second embodiment is resettable after an over-speed event by commanding reverse rotation of the drive member to impart reverse rotation to the input element.
  • the input element and output element are reversible in function, i.e. the input element may be used as an output element and the output element may be used as an input element.
  • FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a torque limiter apparatus having over-speed protection in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention, wherein the apparatus is shown in its normal operating condition;
  • FIG. 2 is a sectional view taken generally along the line 2 - 2 in FIG. 1 ;
  • FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view similar to that of FIG. 1 , wherein the apparatus is shown in an over-speed condition triggering an over-speed governor of the apparatus;
  • FIG. 4 is a sectional view taken generally along the line 4 - 4 in FIG. 3 ;
  • FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view similar to that of FIG. 3 , wherein the apparatus is shown having means for resetting the apparatus after the apparatus has been triggered by an over-speed condition;
  • FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of region A in FIG. 5 illustrating biasing of a fly weight of the over-speed governor
  • FIG. 7 is a view similar to that of FIG. 6 , wherein the apparatus has been reset;
  • FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view similar to that of FIG. 5 , wherein the apparatus is shown having alternative means for resetting the apparatus;
  • FIG. 9 is an enlarged view showing an alternative configuration of a fly weight in which the fly weight itself acts as a sear
  • FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a torque limiter apparatus having over-speed protection in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention, wherein the apparatus is shown in its normal operating condition;
  • FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view similar to that of FIG. 5 , wherein the apparatus is shown in an over-speed condition triggering an over-speed governor of the apparatus.
  • Apparatus 10 comprises a structural ground in the form of housing members 12 and 14 , an input element 16 rotatable about a rotational axis 11 relative to the structural ground by virtue of a rotary bearing 18 , and an output element 20 rotatable relative to the structural ground by virtue of another rotary bearing 22 .
  • Apparatus 10 further comprises a torque limiter 24 and an over-speed governor 26 described in greater detail below.
  • apparatus 10 is useful for connecting a rotational drive member (not shown) to a rotational driven member (not shown) by coupling the drive member to input element 16 and by coupling the driven member to output element 20 .
  • Coupling of the drive member to input element 16 may be achieved by a splined connection to a spline 28 of input element 16
  • coupling of the driven member to output element 20 may be achieved by a splined connection to a spline 30 of output element 20 . While splined couplings are shown, other types of couplings that provide transmission of rotational motion may be used.
  • the connection provided by apparatus 10 provides both over-torque and over-speed protections in the transmission of rotational motion from the drive member to the driven member.
  • housing members 12 and 14 act as a structural ground relative to which the input element 16 and the output element 20 rotate.
  • Housing member 12 may be an axially elongated housing member surrounding the torque limiter 24 and the over-speed governor 26
  • housing member 14 may be an end plate threadably coupled to housing member 12 and secured against rotation relative to housing member 12 by threaded fasteners 32 .
  • rotary bearing 18 is nested in an annular recess of housing member 14 and rotatably supports input element 16
  • rotary bearing 22 is nested in an annular recess of housing member 12 and rotatably supports output element 20 .
  • Torque limiter 24 connects output element 20 to input element 16 for coupled rotation with the input element at the same rotational speed. Torque limiter 24 is actuated to brake rotation of input element 16 and output element 20 when torque transmitted between input element 16 and output element 20 exceeds a predetermined torque limit.
  • a torque limiter is a mechanical design element, used in the transmission system, to protect downstream components from excessive torque levels. A torque limiter either releases or locks to ground if the predetermined torque limit has been exceeded.
  • torque limiters There are three general types of torque limiters: sacrificial weak element, slip clutch, and torque brake.
  • the sacrificial weak element type is one that fractures and/or fully disconnects from the transmission drive line if the maximum design torque is exceeded. This type of torque limiter must be replaced or reset to transmit torque and return to operation after it is triggered. Examples of the sacrificial weak element type are shear and clear shafts, or ball or roller elements that snap over into a tripped condition and do not transmit any more torque.
  • the slip clutch type introduces slippage or losses into the system rig or the rotary relationship between the input and output shafts of the torque limiter if the torque limit has been exceeded.
  • a slip clutch torque limiter may include spring-loaded brake plates or ball detents between input and output shafts. If the torque limit has been exceeded, the slip clutch torque limiter simply lets the output shaft slip at a different speed relative to the input shaft. Unlike the sacrificial weak element type, the slip clutch type transmits nearly the same maximum torque during a slip event and it automatically resets itself after the slip event.
  • the torque brake type maintains the system rig or the rotary relationship of the input and output shaft of the torque limiter, even if the torque limit has been exceeded.
  • the torque brake type protects its output shaft from the excess torque at the input shaft by applying braking torque from the input shaft directly to the ground.
  • the input torque is measured by a spring-loaded axial or radial ball ramp or cam, which applies force to brake plates or shoes, causing the brake plates or shoes to directly engage a grounded structure if the torque limit is exceeded.
  • the input torque To reset or release the locked shaft, the input torque must be lowered to zero, and in some cases, the input shaft might need to back-up axially to release the brakes.
  • torque limiter 24 is embodied as a torque brake type torque limiter.
  • torque limiter 24 may be embodied as another type of torque limiter, for example a sacrificial weak element type torque limiter or a slip clutch type torque limiter, without straying from the present invention.
  • torque limiter 24 may include a braking member 34 arranged to transmit rotational motion from input element 16 to output element 20 during normal operation of apparatus 10 (i.e. when there is no over-torque or over-speed condition present).
  • Braking member 34 may be coupled to input element 16 by a plurality of angularly spaced balls 36 received within opposing recessed pockets 38 , 40 in input element 16 and braking member 34 , respectively.
  • Braking member 34 may be coupled to output element 20 by a splined connection 41 allowing braking member 34 to transmit rotational motion to output member 20 and to slide axially relative to output element 20 .
  • braking member 34 rotates with input element 16 and output element 20 at the same rotational speed.
  • Torque limiter 24 may further include a torque limit setting spring 42 arranged to bias braking member 34 in an axial direction toward input element 16 to retain the balls 36 within corresponding opposing pockets 38 , 40 .
  • torque limit setting spring 42 has a first end operatively engaging an inner radial shelf of braking member 34 and a second end operatively engaging a flange 44 fixed at an axial location on a preload setting shaft 46 .
  • Torque limiter 24 may further include a plurality of disc brakes 48 arranged between braking member 34 and structural ground defined by an inner surface of housing member 12 .
  • the preload setting shaft 46 may be held at a predetermined axial setting position relative to input element 16 and structural ground members 12 , 14 by one or more sears 50 partially received by a corresponding sear groove 52 in preload setting shaft 46 and partially received by a respective radially extending recess 54 in input element 16 .
  • sear groove 52 may be part of a continuous circumferential groove about preload setting shaft 46 .
  • sear groove 52 may be a local notch or indentation arranged to receive a respective sear 50 .
  • the axial setting position of preload setting shaft 46 determines the preload applied to torque limit setting spring 42 , which in turn determines the torque limit above which torque limiter 24 is triggered.
  • Over-speed governor 26 is configured to cause actuation of torque limiter 24 to brake rotation of input element 16 and output element 20 when rotational speed of input element 16 exceeds a rotational speed limit.
  • over-speed governor 26 causes actuation of torque limiter 24 by reducing the preload of torque limit setting spring 42 when the rotational speed limit is exceeded, thereby reducing the torque limit.
  • over-speed governor 26 reduces the torque limit to substantially zero torque by removing all or substantially all preload from torque limit setting spring 42 . Consequently, as a result of an over-speed event, any torque will trigger torque limiter 24 .
  • Over-speed governor 26 may include preload setting shaft 46 , one or more sears 50 , and at least one fly weight 56 .
  • preload setting shaft 46 engages an end of the torque limit setting spring 42 , is axially displaceable relative to structural ground 12 , 14 to set the preload of torque limit setting spring 42 , and has one or more sear grooves 52 .
  • Each sear 50 may be a ball partially received by a corresponding sear groove 52 and partially received by a corresponding radially extending recess 54 in input element 16 to maintain an axial setting position of preload setting shaft 46 relative to structural ground 12 , 14 during normal operation when the rotational speed of input element 16 does not exceed the rotational speed limit.
  • the normal operating condition is shown in FIGS. 1-2 .
  • Each fly weight 56 may be arranged on input element 16 to retain a respective sear 50 partially in sear groove 52 of preload setting shaft 46 when the rotational speed of input element 16 does not exceed the rotational speed limit.
  • each fly weight 56 is pivotally mounted to input element 16 by a pivot pin or pivot axle 58 .
  • a plurality of fly weights 56 may be angularly spaced about rotational axis 11 of input element 16
  • a plurality of sears 50 may be respectively received within a plurality of radially extending recesses 54 angularly spaced about rotational axis 11 of input element 16 .
  • the illustrated embodiment provides three sears 50 and three fly weights 56 spaced at regular angular intervals of 120° about rotational axis 11 for balanced operation. It will be understood that more or fewer sears 50 and fly weights 56 may be used.
  • the permitted displacement of preload setting shaft 46 may be sufficient to remove all or substantially all preload in torque limit setting spring 42 so as to reduce the torque limit to essentially zero torque. Consequently, torque limiter 24 is actuated as described above to brake rotation of input element 16 and output element 20 .
  • the rotational speed limit above which over-speed governor 26 is triggered may be determined by designing the mass and center of gravity of the at least one fly weight 56 such that a predetermined rotational speed of input element 16 is required before pivoting of the at least one fly weight occurs. Additionally, each fly weight 56 may be spring-loaded toward a non-triggered position, wherein the preload must be overcome by centrifugal force. Over-speed governor 26 may be balanced and calibrated as known in the art such that all sears 50 are released and travel radially outward simultaneously. Once over-speed governor 26 is triggered and the preload on torque limit setting spring 42 is discharged, apparatus 10 will remain stopped and resetting the apparatus is not possible without disassembly.
  • FIGS. 5-8 illustrate modifications to the apparatus 10 enabling the apparatus to be reset after an over-speed event.
  • apparatus 10 is adapted to allow a user to axially push or pull preload setting shaft 46 back into its original preload setting position without disassembly.
  • a push button 47 may be axially slidable through a passage in output element 20 to exert force on an end of preload setting shaft 46 to push the preload setting shaft back into the predetermined preload setting position against the bias of torque limit setting spring 42 .
  • an opposite end of preload setting shaft 46 may be adapted to releasably mate with a puller tool (not shown) so that a user may pull preload setting shaft 46 back into the predetermined preload setting position against the bias of torque limit setting spring 42 .
  • a tapped hole 49 may be provided at the opposite end of preload setting shaft 46 to mate with a threaded tip of a puller tool inserted through a passage in input element 16 . As shown in FIGS.
  • each fly weight 56 may be biased by a spring 59 toward a non-triggered position, whereby the fly weight will return to a position for holding preload setting shaft 46 in the axial setting position as preload setting shaft 46 reaches the axial setting position during reset.
  • FIG. 8 shows another modification wherein the output element 20 is provided with a nipple or sealable port 51 through which pressurized fluid, for example grease from a grease gun, may be injected into a cavity between output element 20 and the end of preload setting shaft 46 to force preload setting shaft 46 back into its axial setting position.
  • FIG. 9 illustrates a fly weight 66 according to an alternative design which avoids the use of a separate sear element such as balls 50 .
  • fly weight 66 is pivotally mounted to input element 16 by a pivot pin or pivot axle 68 .
  • Fly weight 66 directly engages preload setting shaft 46 in the manner of a sear for maintaining the preload setting shaft in its axial setting position, and moves out of engagement to release preload setting shaft 46 when the rotational speed limit is exceeded.
  • fly weight 66 includes a latching edge 64 arranged to engage a radial shoulder 74 of preload setting shaft 46 .
  • FIGS. 10 and 11 illustrate a torque limiter apparatus 110 having over-speed protection in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention.
  • the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment described above in that the over-speed governor of the second embodiment acts to add drag torque to the grounding brake of the torque limiter when the rotational speed limit is exceeded, thereby triggering the torque limiter.
  • FIG. 10 shows apparatus 110 during a normal operating condition
  • FIG. 11 shows apparatus 110 in an over-speed condition triggering an over-speed governor 126 of the apparatus.
  • over-speed governor 126 of the second embodiment does not change the preset torque limit of torque limiter 24 when the rotational speed limit is exceeded, but merely adds drag to the system to trigger torque limiter 24 .
  • over-speed governor 126 of the second embodiment allows torque limiter 24 to be reset by commanding reverse rotation of the drive member to rotate input element 16 in an opposite rotational direction, and disassembly or manual intervention is not required to reset apparatus 110 .
  • Apparatus 110 of the second embodiment is similar to apparatus 10 of the first embodiment in that it comprises torque limiter 24 , described above.
  • Torque limiter 24 may include rotatable braking member 34 arranged to transmit rotational motion from the input member 16 to output member 20 , and disc brakes 48 arranged between braking member 34 and structural ground 12 , 14 .
  • braking member 34 is axially displaced relative to structural ground 12 , 14 to engage disc brakes 48 when the torque limit is exceeded.
  • Preload setting shaft 46 may be integrally formed with input element 16 .
  • Over-speed governor 126 includes at least one fly weight 156 arranged on braking member 34 .
  • Each fly weight 156 may be pivotally mounted to braking member 34 by a pivot pin or pivot axle 158 .
  • a plurality of fly weights 156 may be angularly spaced about rotational axis 11 of input element 16 , which corresponds to the rotational axis of braking member 34 .
  • three fly weights 156 may be spaced at regular angular intervals of 120° about rotational axis 11 for balanced operation. It will be understood that more or fewer fly weights 156 may be used.
  • each fly weight 156 moves by centrifugal force such that it applies axially directed force to disc brakes 48 .
  • movement of each fly weight 156 may be pivotal movement about corresponding pivot pin or pivot axle 158 .
  • the application of force to disc brakes 48 by each fly weight 156 increases frictional resistance to rotation, thereby increasing torque transmitted between input element 16 and output element 20 .
  • the predetermined torque limit is exceeded in an over-speed condition causing actuation of torque limiter 24 .
  • torque limiter 24 may be reset by commanding reverse rotation of the drive element to rotate input element 16 in an opposite rotational direction, thereby causing balls 36 to roll back into pockets 38 , 40 .
  • input element 16 and output element 20 are reversible in function, i.e. input element 16 may be used as an output element coupled to an external driven member, and output element 20 may be used as an input element to which an external drive member is coupled.
  • element 20 is considered an “input element” and element 16 is considered an “output element.”
  • the invention improves safety by providing an over-speed governor configured to cooperate with a torque limiter apparatus.
  • the invention utilizes the existing capability of the torque limiter during an over-speed event, thereby avoiding additional braking or torque limiting components and external controls.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • One-Way And Automatic Clutches, And Combinations Of Different Clutches (AREA)
  • Braking Arrangements (AREA)
US15/719,871 2017-09-29 2017-09-29 Torque limiter having over-speed protection Active 2038-02-07 US10385927B2 (en)

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US15/719,871 US10385927B2 (en) 2017-09-29 2017-09-29 Torque limiter having over-speed protection
PCT/US2018/051983 WO2019067303A1 (en) 2017-09-29 2018-09-20 TORQUE LIMITER FOR PROTECTION AGAINST OVERSPEED
EP18861940.7A EP3688286A4 (en) 2017-09-29 2018-09-20 OVERSPEED PROTECTION TORQUE LIMITER
KR1020207007891A KR102341958B1 (ko) 2017-09-29 2018-09-20 과속 방지 기능을 갖는 토크 제한기
CA3074117A CA3074117C (en) 2017-09-29 2018-09-20 Torque limiter having over-speed protection
BR112020004889-5A BR112020004889A2 (pt) 2017-09-29 2018-09-20 aparelho para conectar um membro de acionamento giratório.
JP2020513552A JP2020535353A (ja) 2017-09-29 2018-09-20 超過速度保護を有するトルクリミッタ

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US10385927B2 true US10385927B2 (en) 2019-08-20

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EP (1) EP3688286A4 (pt)
JP (1) JP2020535353A (pt)
KR (1) KR102341958B1 (pt)
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US11383822B2 (en) 2020-05-20 2022-07-12 The Boeing Company Distributed active brakes for aircraft high-lift devices

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US2850131A (en) * 1952-12-23 1958-09-02 Ferodo Sa Centrifugal clutch
US3596740A (en) 1970-01-27 1971-08-03 Trw Inc Torque limiter
US4030578A (en) 1976-05-03 1977-06-21 The Boeing Company Torque limiter
US4175727A (en) * 1978-03-06 1979-11-27 Ederer Incorporated Single failure proof crane
US5199538A (en) 1989-02-23 1993-04-06 Zahnradfabrik Friedrichshafen Ag Drive device with variable torque-limiting system
US6120257A (en) * 1997-03-13 2000-09-19 Denso Corporation Power transmission apparatus
US20130157768A1 (en) 2008-06-10 2013-06-20 Thomas F. Long, Jr. Automatic Resetting Torque Limiter Capable Of High Speed Continuous Operations In Released Mode
US20140080609A1 (en) 2012-09-20 2014-03-20 Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd. Torque limiter
US20150018155A1 (en) 2013-07-09 2015-01-15 Moog Inc. Torque limiter responsive to output torque
US20150330490A1 (en) * 2014-05-19 2015-11-19 Goodrich Actuation Systems Limited Torque limiter
US20170090505A1 (en) 2015-09-29 2017-03-30 Moog Inc. Non-jamming stop module for high revolution applications

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GB9503191D0 (en) 1995-02-18 1995-04-05 Lucas Ind Plc Torque limiter
EP2609963A1 (en) * 2011-12-29 2013-07-03 Cresto AB Descending device with direct drive centrifugal brake
JP2014145421A (ja) * 2013-01-29 2014-08-14 Honda Motor Co Ltd トルクリミッタ及び車両の駆動源制御装置
US20140318961A1 (en) 2013-04-30 2014-10-30 William Huang Gas Detector
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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2850131A (en) * 1952-12-23 1958-09-02 Ferodo Sa Centrifugal clutch
US3596740A (en) 1970-01-27 1971-08-03 Trw Inc Torque limiter
US4030578A (en) 1976-05-03 1977-06-21 The Boeing Company Torque limiter
US4175727A (en) * 1978-03-06 1979-11-27 Ederer Incorporated Single failure proof crane
US5199538A (en) 1989-02-23 1993-04-06 Zahnradfabrik Friedrichshafen Ag Drive device with variable torque-limiting system
US6120257A (en) * 1997-03-13 2000-09-19 Denso Corporation Power transmission apparatus
US20130157768A1 (en) 2008-06-10 2013-06-20 Thomas F. Long, Jr. Automatic Resetting Torque Limiter Capable Of High Speed Continuous Operations In Released Mode
US20140080609A1 (en) 2012-09-20 2014-03-20 Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd. Torque limiter
US20150018155A1 (en) 2013-07-09 2015-01-15 Moog Inc. Torque limiter responsive to output torque
US20150330490A1 (en) * 2014-05-19 2015-11-19 Goodrich Actuation Systems Limited Torque limiter
US20170090505A1 (en) 2015-09-29 2017-03-30 Moog Inc. Non-jamming stop module for high revolution applications

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KR20200036939A (ko) 2020-04-07
US20190101169A1 (en) 2019-04-04
WO2019067303A1 (en) 2019-04-04
EP3688286A4 (en) 2021-07-07
CA3074117A1 (en) 2019-04-04
BR112020004889A2 (pt) 2020-09-15
KR102341958B1 (ko) 2021-12-23
JP2020535353A (ja) 2020-12-03
CA3074117C (en) 2021-11-09
EP3688286A1 (en) 2020-08-05

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