Actuator with internal drive train disconnect

摘要

An electro-mechanical actuator is provided that minimizes back drive effort by de-coupling the internal drive train of the actuator from the actuator output using a clutch. The clutch facilitates transfer of power to an output gear stage when the actuator motor is energized, but disengages the output gear stage when the actuator motor is de-energized. When the actuator output is manually operated, the clutch disengages the output gear stage, thereby reducing the number of gears that must be back driven by the manual actuation.