Rotational control apparatus.

摘要

A rotational control apparatus is shown in its most preferred form according to the teachings of the present invention as a combination clutch/brake. The clutch/brake includes an interfacing member formed by first and second pressure plates rotatably mounted but reciprocally related with respect to each other. The interfacing member is reciprocated between one of first and second disk packs by an actuating rod reciprocally mounted in the housing and interconnected to ears formed on the second pressure plate. The actuating rods are reciprocated by actuation canisters located on opposite ends thereof. Each of the actuation canisters includes a piston which is reciprocated by a fluid chamber and a spring located in the fluid chamber In the first preferred form. the springs of the canisters have a compressional force which are equal and less than required to actuate the clutch/brake such that in the absence of fluid pressure, the actuating rod and interfacing member is in a normal. neutral condition. In another preferred form, the spring of one of the canisters has a compressional force sufficient to actuate the clutch/brake in a normal set condition. Fluid pressure may be electively introduced into the fluid chamber to assist the actuation force spring to return the piston to its set condition and at greater actuation forces.