Torque limiting mechanism

摘要

A torque limiting mechanism for transmitting power from an external drive source (Eg) to the drive shat (17) of a compressor (C). A pulley (33), which is coupled to the external drive source, has elastic members (44). A hub, which is attached to the drive shaft, has engaging portions (41). A coupler member (59) is located between the pulley (33) and the hub (38). The coupler member is engaged with the elastic members (44) and with the engaging portions (41) such that power is transmitted from the pulley to the hub. The urging members urge the coupler member (59) such that the coupler member is disengaged from the engaging portions (41). When power is transmitted from the pulley to the hub, the elastic members (44) maintain the coupler member (59) engaged with the elastic members (44) and with the engaging portions (41). When load generated due to power transmission exceeds a predetermined level, the elastic members (44) are deformed such that the coupler member (59) is disengaged from the elastic members (44). When disengaged from the elastic members (44), the coupler member is disengaged from the engaging portions (44). <IMAGE>