Leroy D Anderson

US Patent:

48712965, Oct 3, 1989

Filed:

Nov 7, 1988

Appl. No.:

7/268311

Inventors:

David L. Laessle - Phoenix AZ
Todd S. Carlson - Chandler AZ
Andrew J. Krochmalny - Tempe AZ
Leroy C. Anderson - Tempe AZ

Assignee:

Allied-Signal Inc. - Phoenix AZ

International Classification:

F01D 1512

US Classification:

415123

Abstract:

A torque limiting decoupler shaft transmits driving torque in a first sense without torque limiting action. However, torque applied to the shaft in a reverse sense opposite the driving torque results in an axial separating force between two portions of the decoupler shaft. When the reverse torque reaches a certain level a frangible tensile bar member fractures to permit decoupling of the shaft portions. A component of the shaft prevents undesirable recoupling of the shaft portions while also insuring that the relatively rotating portions of the shaft do not flail. An air turbine starter includes such a decoupler shaft.