US Patent 11231077 Torque transfer apparatus and methods of use

A torque transfer apparatus and method of use is described. The apparatus comprises a plurality of elements assembled together to form a ring structure oriented in a plane around a longitudinal axis. The ring structure defines a first engagement surface. A structure defining a second engagement surface is rotatable with respect to the ring structure. The ring structure is operable to be moved between a collapsed condition and an expanded condition by movement of the plurality of elements, and movement between the collapsed condition and the expanded condition engages or disengages the first and second engagement surfaces. The apparatus can be configured to transfer a driving torque (e.g. a clutch) or a braking force (e.g. a torque brake).