A torque fuse device having a bi-directional release mechanism that
releases the torque carrying capability of the shafts upon torque
overload is provided. The torque fuse device includes a sleeve, a hub
positioned within the sleeve, and a hydraulic torque coupler. The sleeve
and the hub are adapted to be coupled with two axially aligned shafts.
The hub includes a feedback ring having at least one tooth formed
therein. The hydraulic torque coupler includes a piston, a cylinder and a
collet. The piston is positioned between the collet and the feedback ring
and slides along an inclined surface of collet. One ore more fuse pins
are selectively positioned between the tooth, the piston and the cylinder
to frictionally engage the sleeve to the hub. Upon a torque overload
condition, the pins release from the teeth thereby releasing the torque
carrying capability of the shafts.