Nsk-warner K.k.

Nsk-warner Kabushiki Kaisha

Nsk-warner Kabishiki Kaisha

Noboru Kitamura

Masao Shoji

Mikio Uchida

Norio Komatsubara

Hirofumi Ogata

A double retainer type sprag-synchronized one-way clutch assembly includes a plurality of sprags which are arranged in an annular space defined between an inner ring and an outer ring and a pair of inner and outer sprag retainers, which are generally ring-shaped, for retaining the plurality of sprags spaced apart from one another at a predetermined pitch. At least one of the inner and outer sprag retainers is fabricated from a plastic material or the like and includes a plurality of axial sections arranged circumferentially and a plurality of circumferential sections, each of which connects the corresponding ends of two axial sections alternately in side to thereby define a serpentine-like structure.

Serpentine-shaped sprag retainer of a sprag-synchronized one-way clutch

A sprag outer retainer ring of a sprag-synchronized one-way clutch assembly includes a plurality of pockets formed in a circumferential direction at a predetermined pitch. Each of the pockets is defined by a generally rectangular sprag insertion hole and a pair of notches formed on opposite side edges of the sprag insertion hole and continuously therewith. Thus, the pocket is generally symmetrical in shape and thus the present outer retainer ring may be used irrespective of the lock direction.

Double-notched sprag outer retainer

In a one-way clutch bearing having an outer race having an annular inner surface, an inner race having an annular outer surface corresponding to and concentric with the inner surface, and rolling members disposed in an annular space formed between the inner surface and the outer surface, whereby relative rotation of the inner and outer races in one direction is prevented by displacement of the rolling members in the space and a torque is transmitted, holding means for holding the rolling members is provided at a displacement position whereat the rolling members transmit a predetermined transmission torque, and means is provided for decreasing a wedge angle (an angle defined by a line extending from the center of the inner race to the point of contact between the rolling member and the inner race and a line passing through the points of contact between the rolling member and the inner and outer races) at a position before the rolling members arrive at the displacement position.

Growing community of inventors

Fujisawa, Japan

Noboru Kitamura