Non-Back-Drivable, Freewheeling Coupling

Abstract

Cables reeled in and out with less risk of tangling. Opposing teeth engage with clockwise rotation and disengage with clockwise rotation of crank. Driving plate moves axially with respect to driven plate on ball points to engage and disengage. Clutch developed for reeling and unreeling tether line used to link astronaut to space vehicle. Allows line pulled out freely and helps to prevent line from tangling in reel housing when crank is turned backward. New clutch concept also applicable to fishing reels, toys, and safety-line mechanisms.