éénrichtingskoppeling

éénrichtingskoppeling, also known as a one-way clutch or freewheel, is a mechanical device that allows motion in one direction only. It essentially acts like a ratchet and pawl mechanism, but in a more compact and often integrated form. The primary function is to transmit torque when the input rotates in a specific direction, while disengaging and allowing free rotation when the input attempts to rotate in the opposite direction.

These devices are crucial in applications where preventing reverse motion or allowing a component to spin freely when not driven is necessary. Examples include bicycle freewheels, allowing riders to coast without pedaling backward. In automotive transmissions, they can be used in torque converters or starter motors to engage and disengage at the appropriate times. Industrial machinery also utilizes éénrichtingskoppelingen for applications like conveyor belts, preventing backward rollback, or in power tools to enable a spinning action that stops when the power is released. The design can vary, but most rely on the principle of wedging elements or a series of cams and rollers to engage and disengage based on the direction of rotation.