Skew Roller No-Back Brake Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional no-back brake mechanisms face issues due to non-ideal coefficients of friction and wear, as well as manufacturing challenges with ratchet wheels and pawls, leading to inconsistent braking performance.
Innovation Solution
A no-back brake mechanism featuring a rotating plate and rollers with optional stop means, allowing the mechanism to function as a low-friction thrust bearing in one direction and a skewed roller system in the opposite direction, eliminating the need for complex ratchets and pawls.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional ratchet wheels and pawls are used, then no-back braking function is achieved, but manufacturing complexity and tolerance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional ratchet and pawl mechanical system with a skew roller mechanism. The skew rollers, positioned at a specific angle to the rotation direction, provide the no-back braking function through their geometric configuration rather than through interlocking teeth and levers, thereby simplifying manufacturing and reducing tolerance requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the braking mechanism by using skew rollers at a specific angle rather than conventional radial rollers. This parameter change (skew angle) enables the no-back function while allowing for more relaxed manufacturing tolerances and simpler fabrication processes.
2Reliability
If conventional carbon disks are used, then braking surface is provided, but friction coefficient dispersion and surface polishing effects increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a composite braking system combining skew rollers with a brake ring or carbon disk. This composite structure allows the friction surfaces to be optimized separately, with the skew rollers providing mechanical advantage and the brake ring providing consistent friction, thereby reducing overall friction coefficient dispersion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes part of the friction-based braking mechanism with a mechanical skew roller system that provides more consistent and predictable braking force, reducing reliance on friction coefficient uniformity alone.
3Reliability
If skew angle is fixed for desired braking effect, then no-back function is achieved, but adaptability to different conditions decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces adjustability to the skew roller mechanism, allowing the skew angle or roller position to be modified. This dynamic capability enables the mechanism to adapt to different loading conditions and application requirements while maintaining reliable no-back braking function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the skew roller mechanism to serve multiple functions: providing no-back braking at a fixed skew angle while also allowing adjustment for different conditions. This multi-functionality increases versatility without compromising the primary braking effect.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design provides consistent and adjustable braking performance with reduced torque friction in one direction and energy absorption in the other, enhancing reliability and simplicity compared to conventional mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
The skew angles are set and fixed for the desired coefficient of friction and braking effect
Data Source
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AI summary
A no-back brake mechanism or a torque limiter mechanism, comprising a plurality of rollers each mounted within a respective roller cage, the roller cages being articulated about an axis such that rotation of the rollers in a first direction causes no movement of the cages about their axis and rotation of the rollers in a second direction opposite the first direction causes the cages to rotate with respect to their axis.