Need a one way clutch

Let's Make Robots Project Ideas
1

I’m making a rewinder for my dog’s very long (100 ft) leash. I have all the components and have a prototype made but I have one problem.

I want the spool, attached to the motor (a drill motor with 64:1 planetary gears), to FREEWHEEL when I’m letting the cord out. Then I will press a button, activate the motor to reel the cord in.

The motor is one of my handles. The other handle has a bearing in it so it freewheels. (The entire setup is like a kite-flying string and spool). The motor, being a gearmotor will not freewheel.

I need a clutch of sorts. I have an electromagnetic clutch (removed from printer) but it isn’t that strong and I don’t want to add to my electrical load.

I’d like to be able to engage the clutch when I want to use the motor, and disengage when I want the spool to freewheel.

Any ideas? I have an idea how to build one (having R+R many automobile clutches) but I was hoping for a purchase solution! Motor has about a 3/8" shaft.

2

Hi queenidog,

This is not something we do have available at RobotShop, we can clearly see the need however.
Not sure how to produce such system with simple off the shelf parts.

:frowning:

3

Yes, I’ve needed something like this before.
I searched Google and found what I need: tinyclutch.com/

The D-Series clutch is ideal. They show applications on their site.

Get some for stock!! Even ServoCity doesn’t have anything like this.

4

Thanks, we will have a look at it.