This invention relates to a coupling device, and more particularly to a combined clamping and coupling device for an engine and associated generator.
Conventionally, portable electricity generators are widely used in outdoor activities in locations without a supply of electricity. For example, in camping environments, markets, circus fields and the like. Known portable generators usually comprise an internal combustion engine having an output or driving shaft connected to a driven shaft of a generator by a coupling. Such a coupling includes a tapered bore extending inwardly from an outer end of the output shaft of the engine and a cone head formed at the outer end of the driven shaft of the generator. The cone head is insertable into the tapered bore for frictionally interlocking the shafts together.
It is found that both the engine and generator should be preassembled on the same base in the factory producing the generator so that the tapered bore and cone head can be precisely and tightly joined together. In transporting this assembly, a heavy bump or vibration may cause the shafts of the engine and generator to deform or detach from each other.