Frangible coupling
AssigneeROLLS-ROYCE plc
InventorBrynley Clark
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A frangible coupling for interconnecting parts comprising a first ring and a second ring coaxially arranged relative to each other and axially joined via an annular array of fuse ligaments equidistantly spaced apart from each other. The ligaments are configured to fail when an abnormal radial load of a predetermined value causes the first and second ring to move out of their coaxial relationship. When all of the fuse ligaments are severed, the communication between the first and second rings is severed. This allows the first ring to move independently of the second ring, preventing the out of balance load on the first ring being communicated to the second ring.
Claims13
A frangible coupling for the purpose of supporting a rotatable load having a first ring, a second ring, a plurality of ligaments and a load magnification member, said first ring and second ring interconnected by said plurality of ligaments with the load magnification member provided on the first ring or rotatable load, there being a small clearance maintained between said member and ligaments adjacent thereto, configured such that, in use, when a load of a predetermined value causes the first and second ring to move relative to one another by a predetermined amount, thereby bringing at least one ligament into contact with said load magnification member, at least one ligament is caused to fail.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.