| 摘要 |
An electrophoretic fluid torque transmission apparatus and method in which cooperable electrodes are connected respectively to drive and driven elements. An electrophoretic fluid capable of separating into particle-rich and particle-deficient phases by electrophoresis operates in surface contact with the electrodes. An electrically non-conductive material having raised surface areas and spaces between the surface areas is associated with one or more of the electrodes. When a voltage is applied between the electrodes in a first direction, the particle-rich phase of the fluid collects on one of the electrodes and also makes contact with the spaces and the raised surface areas of the material associated with the other electrode thereby engaging or locking the electrodes together and transmitting force between the elements. When the voltage potential is applied in the opposite direction, the particle-rich phase migrates to the other electrode and collects in the spaces between the raised surfaces of the material, thereby disengaging the electrodes and preventing the transmission of force between the elements. The apparatus may be configured as a clutch, brake or differential.
|
