Rotational coupling device configured for vertical orientation

摘要

A rotational coupling device is configured for vertical orientation. The device includes a hub disposed about a rotational axis. A rotor is supported on, and configured for rotation about, the hub and defines a radially extending wall. An armature is supported on the hub for rotation therewith and axially spaced from the wall. Clutch plates are disposed between the rotor wall and armature and rotatably coupled to the rotor or armature. A field shell is disposed on an opposite side of the rotor wall from the armature and houses a conductor. The armature and clutch plates move in a first axial direction towards the rotor wall when the conductor is energized and in a second axial direction when the conductor is subsequently deenergized. At least one of the hub and rotor defines means for limiting movement of a corresponding one of the clutch plates in the second axial direction.

主权项

1. A rotational coupling device, comprising:
a hub configured for coupling to a shaft for rotation with said shaft about an axis of rotation; a rotor supported on said hub and configured for rotation relative to said hub about said axis of rotation, said rotor defining a radially extending wall; an armature supported on said hub for rotation therewith, said armature axially spaced from said radially extending wall of said rotor; a first clutch plate disposed axially between said radially extending wall of said rotor and said armature, said first clutch plate coupled to said hub for rotation therewith, but axially movable relative to said hub; a second clutch plate disposed axially between said radially extending wall of said rotor and said armature, said second clutch plate coupled to said rotor for rotation therewith, but axially movable relative to said rotor; and, a field shell disposed about said hub on an opposite side of said radially extending wall of said rotor from said armature, said field shell housing a conductor therein; wherein said armature and said first and second clutch plates are configured for movement in a first axial direction towards said radially extending wall of said rotor upon energization of said conductor to thereby cause frictional engagement of said first and second clutch plates and coupling of said rotor to said hub for rotation therewith and are configured for movement in a second axial direction opposite said first axial direction upon subsequent deenergization of said conductor, at least one of said hub and said rotor defining a first shoulder configured to limit movement of a corresponding one of said first and second clutch plates in said second axial direction wherein said at least one of said hub and said rotor comprises said hub.