Clutch with variable coefficient of friction

摘要

The clutch has two plates (5, 6) which move relative to one another and are separated by a gap (7). The gap lies in the direction of the relative movement of the plates which are electrically insulated from one another and can be connected to a voltage supply (U). On the surface facing the gap of at least one plate a pelt (8) of short hairs, threads, strips of foil, cloth or similar material are fitted with the hairs etc. normally lying in a direction parallel to the direction of relative movement. By subjecting the hairs etc to an electrostatic or magnetic field they can be moved into an engagement position in which they make frictional contact either directly or indirectly with the other plate.