April 17, 2006
NTN Develops Compact, Light-Weight TORQUE DIODE®
<<80% of the size and 50% of the weight of previous models!>>
In order to meet the demand for smaller size and lighter-weight photocopiers and printers, NTN Corporation (NTN) has developed and begun shipping samples of compact, light-weight TORQUE DIODE® that have 20% smaller external dimensions and are 50% lighter than the TORQUE DIODE® (lock type) NTN is currently mass producing.
The TORQUE DIODE® (lock type) is a unit with a lock that functions as a reverse-input prevention mechanism. It can transmit rotation from the input side to the output side, but do not transmit rotation from the output side to the input side.
Now, by using TORQUE DIODE® (lock type) in the sorter tray drive section of a photocopier, the tray can be held in position without keeping the sorter tray drive motor running, thanks to the reverse-input prevention mechanism of the TORQUE DIODE®. This is effective in cutting power consumption. The current TORQUE DIODE® [TDL28] has a weight of 70 grams and an outer diameter of 30 mm, but the newly developed [TDL16] compact, light-weight TORQUE DIODE® uses a completely new reverse-input prevention mechanism and is much lighter and smaller at 35 grams and 25 mm diameter. This has made it possible to use TORQUE DIODE® in compact photocopiers as well as printers.
| (The maximum load torque for compact office equipment is 2.5 Nm. [4.9 Nm for the current models]) |
[Features]
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Significantly more compact (50% of the weight and 80% of the external dimensions of current products⇒can be applied to smaller equipment)
- The improved reverse-input prevention mechanism cuts size and improves reliability.
- Lighter weight by way of part splitting
- Reduced internal torque loss (The newly developed product has internal torque loss of 20 Nm max.: 1/10 that of current products.)⇒energy savings
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Plastic housing (supports external diameters of 25 mm or larger)
⇒since this part can be injection molded, it can be adjusted flexibly for peripheral part shapes.
[Photograph of product]
compact, light-weight TORQUE DIODE®[TDL16]
- The one-piece inner ring and output shaft have a complex shape. Separating these two pieces simplifies the shape.
- The output shaft uses a new metal mold structure to create the required strength.