High Resolution One-Way Clutch Using Graduated Engagement in a Radial Arrangement

摘要

An automatic slack adjuster for a vehicle brake includes a one-way clutch having first and second parts rotatable about an axis. The first part is rotatable in both a drive direction and a slip direction opposite to the drive direction, while the second part is driven about the axis by the first part when the first part rotates in the drive direction, but not driven when the first part rotates in the slip direction. Movable elements are carried within receptacles distributed circumferentially about and projecting into one of the parts, and are displaceable so as to move within the receptacles in radial directions relative to the axis. The movable elements engage corresponding surfaces of teeth that are immovably fixed on or form part of a circumferential surface of the other of the parts.

主权项

1. A one-way clutch for an automatic slack adjuster, comprising:
a first part rotatable about an axis in both a drive direction and a slip direction opposite to the drive direction, a second part that is driven about the axis by the first part when the first part rotates in the drive direction but that is not driven by the first part when the first part rotates in the slip direction, and a plurality of movable elements carried within receptacles distributed circumferentially about and projecting into one of the parts, the movable elements being displaceable so as to move within the receptacles in radial directions relative to the axis about which the first and second parts are driven relative to both of the parts and engaging corresponding surfaces of teeth that are immovably fixed on or form part of a circumferential surface of the other of the parts.