Electromagnetic-released, multi-disc enclosed safety brake

Abstract

An electromagnetic-released, multi-disc, enclosed safety brake for primary use in offshore marine winch applications includes a stationary coil housing that encompasses springs that apply pressure to an armature, a pair of separator plates, three friction plates and a stationary endplate. The multi-disc brake is released by means of a DC voltage applied to the brake coil. The excited coil generates an electromagnetic force that attracts the armature across an air-gap thus reducing the spring force applied to the disc pack. The brake is applied when the DC voltage is removed from the brake coil. Various structures and methodologies for reducing vibrations in the brake are also provided.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.