Method for compressing and constraining an elastomeric belt and article formed thereby

Abstract

A method of compressing and constraining an elastomeric belt comprises linearly compressing the elastomeric belt such that when in the compressed configuration, the belt contains no obstructions. The constrained elastomeric belt is thereafter secured in the compressed position by a securing member, and subsequently placed in a closable article such as a box. Alternatively, when constraining a cog belt, the cog belt is first oriented such that the cogs extend outwardly, away from the belt. Thereafter, the belt is constrained such that the cogs intermesh with the interstitial spaces defined therebetween to act as an additional constraining force to maintain the belt in the constrained configuration. The box preferably has a top and a bottom flap, each formed with a perforated seam, enabling their removal to form a sleeve. If the elastomeric belt is released from its compressed configuration, the decompressed belt may be placed through the sleeve and subsequently hung from a J-hook or a similar support. The present invention advances an apparatus capable of effectively, and reliably compressing a single elastomeric belt by the use of a spring actuated reciprocal member and a rotation assembly operably connected to a power source. The reciprocal member is configured to receive an end of the elastomeric belt while the opposing end of the elastomeric belt is placed upon the rotation assembly. Rotation of the rotation assembly causes the circular, linear compression of the elastomeric belt into a compressed configuration which may thereafter be secured and boxed in a compact, space efficient manner.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority from United States Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/186,421, filed Mar. 2, 2000, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The invention relates generally to elastomeric belts, and in particular, to an elastomeric belt compressed and constrained in a configuration which provides compact storage, transportation and display.

[0003] Endless loops or belts made of an elastomeric material are commonly employed in a variety of industrial and residential applications to band or join two or more components together. The reliance on elastomeric belts is due to their characteristic ability to stretch and subsequently retract to approximately their original dimensions when released, and their relative low cost. Often, durability enhancing materials such as, for example, fiberglass, textiles and certain alloys are embedded within the belt. Endless belts in the form of, for example, rubber bands, conveyor belts, and power transmission belts have served different functions such as holding or constraining a particular item (rubber bands), transporting articles (conveyor belts), or use in conjunction with power transmissions (power transmission belts).

[0004] In particular, power transmission belts are ubiquitous in today's society, as they are normally employed in most every vehicle to join together two or more of the power transmission pulleys. These power transmission belts are constructed for rotation along their length, and are received about the cogs, gears, or guides formed on a surface of the pulley. To increase power transmission, the belts are manufactured to minimize lateral movement when trained about the pulleys. Consequently, these power transmission belts are manufactured to be flexible along their length, but are non-flexible or stiff, along their width. Further, in order to increase the belt's economic life, its outer, or non-contact, surface is normally reinforced with a relatively stiff polymeric or polymeric composite material.

[0005] It has been common practice to package, and subsequently transport, shelf, and display power transmission belts by first pinching, bending or folding the belt in an inward direction so as form a reduced width or “waist”, and thereafter, placing a sleeve around the belt waist. At the retailer's site, the belt is usually hung from a J-hook or other support device upon which a portion of the belt's interior surface rests, and allows the same to depend therefrom in a substantially vertical orientation.

[0006] Manufacturers of power transmission belts normally ship, on average, between 50 to 100 belts per shipping case depending on the belt length, to, for example, an automotive master wholesale distributor. Given the present procedure by which power transmission belts are packaged, the unutilized or air space in the shipping carton may be up to approximately 80%, with the power transmission belts occupying only approximately 20% of the space. Once at the point of sale, the power transmission belts are hung up and supported in a vertical orientation by a conventional J-hook or similar support device covering the better part of a wall so as to facilitate the display and retrieval of a specific belt. Other, less attractive alternatives to hanging the belts include segregating various models by containers or compartments, or in very few cases, placing the belts on racks such that the surface indicating the belt's model number is exposed. It is apparent that the placement of power transmission belts within a sleeve, and the attendant methods by which a retailer is relegated to displaying the product is both inefficient and costly, as they require a great deal of space. Not only do power transmission belts come in a variety of sizes, but as well, a wide variety of model numbers, due to their use in almost all vehicles. The various belt sizes and model numbers results in the consumption of a great deal of selling space within the retailer's store.

[0007] Additionally, the belt sleeves have a tendency, during transportation, or when supported in a vertical orientation, especially when repeatedly handled by consumers, to slide off or separate from the belt. When separation from the sleeve transpires, the belt can no longer be easily identified by its model number, leading to customer confusion.

[0008] Consequently, there exists a need for a method for compressing and constraining an elastomeric belt, such as a power transmission belt, which facilitates the compact storage, transportation, and display thereof.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] According to one aspect of the invention, a method for compressing an elastomeric belt comprises compressing the belt such that in the compressed configuration, one end of the elastomeric belt is surrounded by at least a portion of the outer surface of the belt, and the area defined by the inner surface of the elastomeric belt is unobstructed. Thereafter, the elastomeric belt is secured in the compressed configuration. Providing a method by which an elastomeric belt is placed in a compressed configuration without obstructing the area defined by the compressed belt minimizes the total area of the compressed belt, and thus maximizes the effective utilization of space.

[0010] According to another aspect of the invention, a method for compressing an elastomeric belt which is formed with a surface having a series of cogs placed therealong comprises the steps of orienting the elastomeric belt such that the first surface defines an outer surface, and subsequently compressing the elastomeric belt in a compressed configuration such that at least a plurality of the cogs are intermeshed. Thereafter, the elastomeric belt is secured in its compressed configuration. This method employs the cogs in a partially intermeshing relationship to provide additional force to maintain the belt in the compressed configuration. Further, by orienting the belts such that the cogs extend from the outer periphery of the belt enables the cog belt to assume a compact, compressed configuration which effectively utilizes space.

[0011] According to another aspect of the invention, an article comprises a single compressed elastomeric belt having an area defined by the inner surface of the belt which is unobstructed, and a package into which at least a portion of the compressed elastomeric belt is placed. The compressed elastomeric belt defines an end which is surrounded by at least a portion of the belt's outer surface. Placing a single, compressed, elastomeric belt within a package reduces the space necessary for the transportation, stocking, and displaying of elastomeric belts.

[0012] According to still another aspect of the invention, a method for repackaging an elastomeric belt originally enclosed within a package comprises the steps of altering the package to form a sleeve, and thereafter placing at least a portion of the elastomeric belt within the sleeve. This repackaging method is beneficial in the retail area as it is not infrequent that a consumer purchases the wrong belt and returns the same. Once the elastomeric belt is removed from the package and decompressed, altering the package to form a sleeve through which the elastomeric belt is placed permits the elastomeric belt to be subsequently hung or supported from a J-hook, or a similar support device.

[0013] According to a further aspect of the invention, an apparatus for compressing an elastomeric belt comprises a reciprocal guide assembly reciprocal in a preselected direction, and configured to removably receive a section of the elastomeric belt, and a rotation assembly configured to removably receive a section of the elastomeric belt. A power source is operably connected to the rotation assembly, and when actuated, rotates the rotation assembly to thereby rotatably compress the elastomeric belt. This aspect of the invention provides an efficient apparatus which reliably compresses an elastomeric belt.

[0014] According to yet another embodiment of the invention, a method for compressing an elastomeric belt having an inner surface formed of a high coefficient of friction includes circularly compressing the elastomeric belt into a compressed configuration so that at least a section of the inner surface is in frictional contact with another section of the inner surface, and subsequently securing the elastomeric belt in the compressed configuration. Compressing an elastomeric belt such that the inner surface frictionally contacts itself when compressed increases the belts resistance to decompressing and provides a further constraint to maintain the belt in the compressed configuration.

[0015] In another aspect of the invention, a method for compressing an elastomeric belt comprises the steps of compressing the elastomeric belt into a compressed configuration such that the compressed configuration is characterized by a substantially dual looped center and a single loop exterior, and subsequently maintaining the elastomeric belt in the compressed configuration by applying a constraining force. The compression of an elastomeric belt to have a dual loop center and a single loop exterior provides a convenient and efficient method of compressing an elastomeric belt.

[0016] According to yet another aspect of the invention, a method for compressing an elastomeric belt comprises the steps of circularly compressing the elastomeric belt into a compressed configuration and thereafter maintaining the elastomeric belt in the compressed configuration by applying a constraining force. When in the compressed configuration, the elastomeric belt is characterized by a core center defining a pair of space chambers and an end which defines a single space chamber. Further, in the compressed configuration, the inner surface and outer surface of the elastomeric belt are sequentially in contact with and adjacent one another between the core center and the end. Circularly compressing the elastomeric belt according to this method minimizes the total area occupied by the belt, without crimping or otherwise deleteriously affecting the belt surface.

[0017] These and other advantages, benefits, and features of the invention will be understood by one skilled in the art from the drawings, description and claims which follow.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an elastomeric belt in its normal configuration;

[0019] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a compressed elastomeric belt, and a closeable article according to the invention;

[0020] FIG. 3 is a plan view of the compressed elastomeric belt illustrated within the closeable article of FIG. 2, with the closeable article illustrated in cross section;

[0021] FIG. 4 is the same view as FIG. 3, with the elastomeric belt compressed in an alternative configuration, according to the invention;

[0022] FIG. 5 is the same view as FIGS. 3 and 4, with the compressed elastomeric belt secured by an alternative preferred securing member;

[0023] FIG. 6 is plan view of a compressed elastomeric belt positioned within a bag;

[0024] FIG. 7 is an exploded plan view of a compressed elastomeric belt positioned within a tray, and a closeable article, according to the invention;

[0025] FIG. 8 is a side view of the compressed elastomeric belt and tray positioned within the closable article, with the tray and closable article illustrated in cross-section;

[0026] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an elastomeric cog belt in its normal orientation;

[0027] FIG. 10 is a plan view of an elastomeric cog belt in the compressed configuration, according to the invention;

[0028] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the closeable article depicted in FIG. 2, with the top and bottom flap removed, and an elastomeric belt placed therethrough and supported by a J-hook;

[0029] FIG. 12 is a detailed perspective view of a closeable article according to an alternative preferred embodiment;

[0030] FIG. 13 is the same view as FIG. 12, according to still another alternative preferred embodiment;

[0031] FIG. 14 is a front view of a plurality of closeable articles supported on a shelf in a horizontal orientation;

[0032] FIG. 15 is a side view of an elastomeric belt compressing apparatus according to the invention;

[0033] FIG. 16 is a plan view of the guide assembly and rotation plate of the apparatus of FIG. 15;

[0034] FIG. 17 is a plan view of an elastomeric belt shown in the compressed configuration and on the rotation assembly of FIGS. 15, and 16; and

[0035] FIG. 18 is a detailed side view of the rotation assembly and shaft of the apparatus of FIG. 15, with the shaft illustrated in phantom.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0036] Referring now to FIG. 1, there is shown a perspective view of an endless, elastomeric belt, generally designated by reference numeral 10. In its normal configuration, belt 10 includes an inner surface 12, and an outer surface 14. Normally, inner surface 12 exhibits a high coefficient of friction, necessary for belt 10 to effectively rotate when trained around the pulleys of a power transmission. The method of the present invention may be used in conjunction with any endless elastomeric belt 10 including mobius strip belts, wherein it is desired to place the elastomeric belt in a compact, compressed configuration, and is particularly suited for the compression of power transmission belts, both serpentine and “V-belts”, or cog belts. The present invention provides an effective, and reliable method of compressing the elastomeric transmission belt without using winding spools, cores, or posts so as to enable the same to be placed in an article of reduced size, and hence permits their transportation, storage and display in a space efficient manner.

[0037] With reference to FIGS. 2 through 14, the method of the present invention involves compressing a single belt 10 into a compressed configuration, constraining or securing belt 10 in the compressed configuration, and thereafter placing the compressed belt 10 within a package such as a closeable article 20. Preferably, belt 10 is linearly compressed so that when in the compressed configuration, edge 13 and edge 15 of belt 10 each generally reside in a single plane. Linearly compressing elastomeric belt 10 increases the compact profile of the compressed belt and minimizes the interior space required of article 20 to properly house belt 10. In a preferred form, belt 10 is rotatively compressed in a manner such that in the compressed configuration, belt 10 assumes a generally circular shape as illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 5. Specifically belt 10, when compressed, includes a core or center region 17 defined by two space chambers or loops 17′ and 17″ and an exterior loop 19. Loops 17′ and 17″ together define a generally S-shape while exterior loop 19 has a generally U-shape. Further, in the compressed configuration of FIGS. 3 and 5, belt 10 forms a pair of ends 18, 18′, with end 18′ being surrounded by the entire outer surface 14. Also, in the compressed configuration, outer surface 14 and inner surface 12 are adjacent one another between center region 17 and exterior loop 19.

[0038] In an alternative preferred embodiment, as depicted in FIG. 4, belt 10 is compressed by bending or folding elastomeric belt 10 such that it assumes a generally heart shape compressed configuration. In this embodiment, end 18′ is surrounded by at least a portion of outer surface 14, and preferably, a major portion of outer surface 14. It will be apparent to those with ordinary skill in the art that the particular compressed configuration of FIG. 4 is but illustrative of the many forms which belt 10 may assume when bent or folded in a linear fashion. Thus, the particular orientation of belt 10, as depicted in FIG. 4, shall not be limiting of the invention.

[0039] When compressed, inner surface 12 and outer surface 14 of belt 10 defines discrete areas 11 which are unobstructed. That is, when in the compressed configuration, there exists no cores, rolling posts, or other winding members positioned in areas 11 between the inner and outer surfaces 12, 14, respectively, of belt 10. Compressing belt 10 without the use of winding members or cores greatly reduces the total area of the compressed elastomeric belt, and in consequence, maximizes the belt's compact profile, and reduces the weight of packaged article.

[0040] Once belt 10 is placed in the compressed configuration, it is maintained in such state by the use of one or more constraining or securing members 30. As illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, in a preferred form, securing member 30 is an elastomeric loop, such as a plastic ring or rubber band, secured about at least a section outer surface 14 of belt 10. Alternatively, securing member 30 may be a length of tape having sufficient strength and adhesive characteristics, a suitable length of rope, or a spring. When placed about outer surface 14, securing member 30 exerts an inward pressure or force which is greater than, and preferably, substantially equal to, the outwardly directed force of belt 10 due to its compressed configuration. Additionally, the frictional contact between portions of inner surface 12 of belt 10, which is normally manufactured of material having a high coefficient of friction, further aids in maintaining belt 10 in the compressed configuration, by providing a counter active force resistant to the outward force of belt 10.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 6, prior to the insertion of belt 10 in article 20, belt 10, having securing member 30 positioned therearound, may be placed in an appropriately sized bag 32. Bag 32 may be any bag commonly utilized in the art to enclose an object. The purpose of bag 32 is to provide an additional inward force to maintain belt 10 within the compressed configuration. Preferably, bag 32 is made of a suitable polymeric material.

[0042] Turning now to FIGS. 7 and 8, there is shown a compressed belt 10, with a securing member 30 placed therearound, and positioned within a tray 34. Tray 34 includes an appropriately dimensioned central well 35 which receives belt 10 in the compressed configuration. Central well 35 defines a substantially vertical wall 36 which is preferably in close proximity to securing member 30. Wall 36 provides additional reinforcement to maintain belt 10 within the compressed configuration. Tray 34 is dimensioned for receipt by article 20 and may be formed of any suitable polymeric material having sufficient strength necessary to provide a restraining force to maintain the compressed state of belt 10.

[0043] In an alternative preferred embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, belt 10 is maintained in the constrained configuration by one or more securing members 38. Securing members 38 are ties or clasps threaded around inner surface 12 and outer surface 14 of belt 10, and preferably tied off or secured about outer surface 14. Securing members 38 may be any clasp or tie commonly utilized in the art having the requisite strength capable of maintaining belt 10 in the compressed configuration. Preferably, there are at least four securing members 38, each of which is a cable tie. It will be understood by those with ordinary skill in the art that securing members 38 may be used in conjunction with bag 32 or tray 34.

[0044] Once belt 10 is positioned in the constrained configuration, and, optionally, placed in bag 32, or within tray 34, belt 10 is placed within a package, preferably a closeable article 20. Most preferably, article 20 is a box 40 having a pair of opposing faces 42, a pair of opposing sides 44, a top flap 46, and a bottom flap 48. Box 40 may also include side flaps 49. As shown in FIGS. 3 through 5, box 40 has an interior 41 sized so that exterior surface 30′, 38′ of securing member 30 or 38, respectively, is positioned proximate to the interior surface of sides 44, top flap 46 and bottom flap 48. Also, it is preferred that the height of belt 10, measured from edge 13 to edge 15, is slightly less than the height of box 40, as measured between the interior surfaces of opposing faces 42. Providing a box 40 having dimensions slightly larger than the dimensions expressed by belt 10 when in the compressed position maximizes the compact profile of the packaged article formed thereby.

[0045] Preferably, as illustrated in FIG. 2, top flap 46 and bottom flap 48 of box 40 are each formed having a perforated seam 49. Perforated seams 49 permit an individual to tear off or remove top flap 46 and bottom flap 48 from box 40 to form a sleeve 51, as depicted in FIG. 11. If a customer erroneously purchases the wrong transmission belt, and returns the same after it has been released from the compressed configuration, box 40 may be transformed into a sleeve 51 by removing top flap 46 and bottom flap 48 along the perforated seams 49. Thereafter, belt 10 may be pinched or drawn inwardly and placed through the interior of sleeve 51 to achieve the configuration depicted in FIG. 11. Once belt 10 is positioned in sleeve 51, it may be hung in a generally vertical orientation from a vertical surface 56 by a J-hook 54 or similar support mechanism.

[0046] Preferably, box 40 is formed with informational indicia 43 printed on at least one of the opposing sides 44 (FIG. 14). Once belt 10 is positioned within box 40, the packaged article formed thereby may be placed on a shelf 52 in a horizontal orientation with informational indicia 43 being readily discernable by customers. Arrangement of compressed belts 10 in a “book like” fashion greatly reduces the amount of space consumed by their display.

[0047] As shown in FIG. 12, box 40 may also be formed with a tab 53 attached to rear face 42′ and projecting a preselected distance above top flap 46. Tab 53 may be attached to rear face 42′ by any means commonly employed in the art, and is preferably accomplished by the use of a suitable adhesive. Aperture 56 of tab 53 is sized to permit box 40 to be hung or supported by a J-hook or similar support device.

[0048] Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 13, rear face 42′ of box 40 may be formed with a perforated cutout section 57 which may be bent along seam 59 to form a tab 61. As with tab 53, the tab formed from cut out section 57 extends above top flap 46 and includes an appropriately sized aperture 59′ enabling box 40 to be hung from a J-hook or similar fastener. A half circle shaped throughhole 59″ is dimensioned to enable an operator's finger to be inserted therein, and facilitates transformation of cutout section 57 in a tab.

[0049] Referring now to FIG. 9, there is shown an elastomeric cog belt 60. In the normal orientation, cog belt 60 has an inner surface 62 formed with a plurality of cogs 64 placed in spaced relation therealong. Cogs 64 may be used in conjunction with a geared pulley (not shown) to increase the amount of power transmission afforded by cog belt 60. Each pair of adjacent cogs 64 define an interstice 65 therebetween. An alternative preferred method for use in conjunction with a cog belt 60 includes altering the orientation of cog belt 60 so that cogs 64 extend outwardly away from internal area 63 of cog belt 60. Thereafter, once in the altered orientation, cog belt 60 is placed in a compressed configuration as detailed above, and subsequently secured in such configuration by securing member 30 or 38. When in the compressed configuration, at least some cogs 64 are forced, at least partially, within interstices 65, and abut adjacent cogs 64. In this manner, cogs 64 provide an intermeshing or nested arrangement wherein the cogs 64 act a locking gears, and provides an additional restraining force to maintain cog belt 60 within the compressed configuration. Thereafter, cog belt 60 is positioned within closeable article 20 as detailed above. The number of cogs 64 which intermesh, and the depth of their penetration within interstices 65, depends upon the particular dimensions of cogs 64 and the degree of compression of cog belt 60 as well as its length, and is therefore application specific.

[0050] In a preferred embodiment, belt 10, or cog belt 60, is placed in the compressed configuration by means of a compressing apparatus 80. As shown in FIGS. 15 through 18, compressing apparatus 80 includes a frame 82 which supports a power source 84, a reciprocal guide assembly 86, and a rotation assembly 88. Frame 82 includes a top surface 90 upon which reciprocal guide assembly 86 is stationarily coupled. Power source 84 is coupled to frame 82, along one of the legs 92.

[0051] Reciprocal guide assembly 86 includes an adjustable spring member 94 moveably attached to a pair of guide rods 96 by a pair of flanges 95. Guide rods 96 are attached at their ends to attachment members 102, 104, which are bolted to top surface 90 by suitable fasteners 105. Adjustable spring member 94 is positioned substantially horizontally between attachment members 102, 104 and is internally biased in a direction towards attachment member 102. A generally horizontal guide plate 106 is attached to adjustable spring member 94, and is located proximate to attachment member 104. A generally vertical post 109 projects from top surface 106′ of guide plate 106.

[0052] Rotation assembly 88 is positioned a preselected distance beyond a leg 92 of frame 82 and includes a generally horizontal rotation member 108, rotatably coupled to a substantially vertically orientated shaft 110, which is operably attached to power source 84. Shaft 110 is supported by a plurality of flanges 93, with the uppermost pair of flanges 93 fitted with a pillow block 130 surrounding shaft 110. A movable collar 132 is positioned in flange 93′ and is in abutting contact with a coil spring 134 positioned around shaft 110. End 134′ of coil spring 134 is in abutting contact with a stationary collar 136 positioned about shaft 110.

[0053] A belt and pulley assembly 87, positioned about stationary collar 136, is operably connected to power source 84, and enables shaft 110 to rotate about a generally vertical axis when power source 84 is actuated. A gear 149 is also positioned on stationary collar 136. Rotation member 108 includes a top plate 109 having a pair of apertures 111, and a base plate 112 having a pair of posts 113, 114 projecting therefrom and extending through apertures 111. Posts 113, 114 are placed a preselected distance apart. Power source 84 may be any power source commonly utilized in the art having the necessary force to cause the rotation of shaft 110 along a vertical axis and thus rotate rotation plate 108. An ejector cylinder 124, which may be for example, a piston, is attached to leg 92 by a support member 140. Ejector cylinder 124 includes a reciprocal pin 126, which is placed in movable contact with a rod 122 extending through an axial channel 120 of shaft 110 and connected at its distal end to top plate 109.

[0054] In operation, to compress a single elastomeric belt 10, or cog belt 60, one end of belt 10 or cog belt 60 is placed in axial alignment and trained around post 114 of rotation member 108 while a portion of outer surface 14 is placed about the periphery of post 113. The opposing end of the belt 10, or cog belt 60, is placed in axial alignment and trained around post 109 of guide plate 106. Ejector cylinder 124 is actuated to move reciprocal pin 126 into an extended position, resulting in the movement of movable collar 132 in an upward direction, forcing coil spring 134 into compression and urging base plate 112 into contact with top plate 109. Actuation of power source 84 causes the rotation of shaft 110, which in turn rotates rotation member 108. As rotation member 108 rotates, the internal spring force of adjustable spring member 94 provides a partial resisting force on belt 10 or cog belt 60. As rotation member 108 continues to rotate, belt 10, or cog belt 60, is wound about posts 113, and 114, while guide plate 106 moves towards rotation member 108. Once belt 10, or cog belt 60, is fully rotated upon rotation member 108, guide plate 106 will be positioned in proximity to rotation member 108. Thereafter, securing member 30 or 38 is utilized to maintain belt 10, or cog belt 60, in the compressed configuration.

[0055] Once belt 10, or cog belt 60, is compressed and secured it may be ejected by causing reciprocal pin 126 to move to the retracted position proximate to end 124′ of ejector cylinder 124. This action releases coil spring 134 from compression and forces movable collar 132 in a downward direction towards flange 93′, and in consequence, results in the downward movement of shaft 110. The downward movement of shaft 110 moves base plate 112 and thus pins 113, 114 through apertures 111 and thus ejects belt 10, or cog belt 60 from rotation member 108. Thereafter, reciprocal pin 126 of ejector cylinder 124 is returned to its extended position, and another belt is placed on rotation member 108, and subsequently compressed.

[0056] Adjustable spring member 94 may be adjusted to increase or decrease the spring force by rotating an adjustment knob 150, rotatably attached to attachment member 102. Adjusting the tension or spring force of adjustable spring member 94 enables the compression of belt 10, or cog belt 60, to any degree required by the particular application. Utilizing the constraining apparatus of the present invention permits an elastomeric belt or cog belt to be compressed to any degree required by the particular application without permanently folding or creasing the belt and thereby irrevocably damaging the same.

[0057] Changes and modifications in the specifically described embodiments can be carried out without departing from the principles of the invention. Therefore, the invention is intended to be limited only by the scope of the appended claims, as interpreted according to the principals of patent law, including the doctrine of equivalents.

Claims

1. A method for compressing an elastomeric belt, wherein the elastomeric belt has an inner surface and an outer surface, said method comprising the steps of:

compressing the elastomeric belt into a compressed configuration such that the area defined by the inner surface of the elastomeric belt is unobstructed, and wherein the elastomeric belt in said compressed configuration defines an end surrounded by at least a portion of the outer surface; and

securing the elastomeric belt in said compressed configuration.

2. The method as recited in

claim 1, further comprising inserting the elastomeric belt in said compressed configuration in a closeable article.

3. The method as recited in

claim 1, wherein said securing step further comprises placing a securing member about at least a section of the outer surface of the elastomeric belt.

4. The method as recited in

claim 3, wherein said securing member is selected from the group consisting of tape, rope, and polymeric bands.

5. The method as recited in

claim 1, wherein said securing step farther comprises placing the elastomeric belt, in said compressed configuration, within a bag.

6. The method as recited in

claim 2, wherein said closeable article is a box.

7. The method as recited in

claim 1, wherein said compressing step further comprises linearly compressing the elastomeric belt into said compressed configuration.

8. The method as recited in

claim 1, wherein the elastomeric belt has a first edge and an opposing second edge, wherein the first edge and the second edge each reside generally in a plane, when the elastomeric belt is in said compressed configuration.

9. The method as recited in

claim 1, wherein said securing step further comprises placing the elastomeric belt, in said compressed configuration, in a tray.

10. The method as recited in

claim 2, wherein said closeable article has an interior having an interior perimeter, and wherein the outer surface of the elastomeric belt in said compressed configuration is proximate to said interior perimeter.

11. The method as recited in

claim 1, wherein said securing step further comprises securing at least one securing member about the inner surface and the outer surface of the elastomeric belt in said compressed configuration.

12. The method as recited in

claim 11, wherein said securing member is selected from the group consisting of a tie, and a clasp.

13. A method for compressing an elastomeric belt, wherein the elastomeric belt has a first surface formed with a series of cogs placed in spaced relation, and a second surface, said method comprising the steps of:

orienting the elastomeric belt such that the first surface defines an outer surface;

compressing the elastomeric belt into a compressed configuration such that at least a plurality of cogs are intermeshed; and

securing the elastomeric belt in said compressed configuration.

14. The method as recited in

claim 13, further comprising the step of inserting the elastomeric belt, in said compressed configuration, in a closeable article.

15. The method as recited in

claim 13, wherein said securing step further comprises placing a securing member about at least a portion of the first surface of the elastomeric belt.

16. The method as recited in

claim 13, wherein said closeable article has an interior having an interior perimeter, wherein the first surface of the elastomeric belt in said compressed configuration is proximate to said interior perimeter.

17. An article comprising:

a single, compressed elastomeric belt having an inner surface and an outer surface, wherein the area defined by said inner surface is unobstructed, and wherein said compressed elastomeric belt defines an end surrounded by at least a portion of said outer surface; and

a package having an interior, at least a portion of said compressed elastomeric belt positioned within said interior of said package.

18. The article as recited in

claim 17, wherein said package is a box.

19. The article as recited in

claim 17, further comprising a securing member attached to said compressed elastomeric belt.

20. The article as recited in

claim 17, wherein said securing member is secured about at least a section of said outer surface.

21. The article as recited in

claim 17, wherein said securing member is secured about said inner surface and said outer surface.

22. The article as recited in

claim 21, wherein said securing member is selected from the group consisting of a tie and a clasp.

23. The article as recited in

claim 17, wherein said compressed elastomeric belt has a first edge generally residing in a plane and an opposing second edge generally residing in a plane.

24. The article as recited in

claim 18, wherein said box has a front face, and rear face, and a pair of sides, wherein informational indicia is carried by at least a side of said pair of sides.

25. The article as recited in

claim 18, wherein said box has a front and rear face, a top and a bottom, wherein said top and said bottom each have a perforated seam.

26. The article as recited in the

claim 18, wherein said box has a rear face and a tab attached to said rear face and extending therebeyond, said tab formed with a throughhole.

27. The article as recited in

claim 18, wherein said box has a rear face and is formed with a perforated section, wherein said perforated section is formed with an aperture.

28. A method for repackaging an elastomeric belt originally enclosed within a package, said method comprising the steps of:

altering the package to form a sleeve; and

inserting the elastomeric belt within said sleeve.

29. The method as recited in

claim 28, wherein the package is a box having a front surface and an opposing back surface, a top flap and a bottom flap, and wherein said altering step further comprises removing the top flap and the bottom flap from the box.

30. An apparatus for compressing an endless elastomeric belt comprising:

a reciprocal guide assembly reciprocal in a preselected direction, said reciprocal guide assembly configured to releasably support an end of the elastomeric belt;

a rotation assembly having an axis of rotation, said rotation assembly configured to removably receive an end of the elastomeric belt; and

a power source operably attached to said rotation assembly, wherein actuation of said power source rotates said rotation assembly to thereby rotatably compress the elastomeric belt.

31. The apparatus as recited in

claim 30, wherein said preselected direction of said reciprocal guide assembly is substantially orthogonal to said axis of rotation.

32. The apparatus as recited in

claim 30, wherein said reciprocal guide assembly moves toward said rotation assembly when said power source is actuated.

33. The apparatus as recited in

claim 30, further comprising a frame, wherein said reciprocal guide assembly and said power source are coupled to said frame.

34. The apparatus as recited in

claim 33, wherein said frame has a top and a side, wherein said reciprocal guide assembly is attached to said top.

35. The apparatus as recited in

claim 34, wherein said rotation assembly further comprises a rotatable member and a shaft depending from said rotatable member, said shaft operably connected to said power source and extending beyond said side of said frame.

36. The apparatus as recited in

claim 35, wherein said shaft is positioned substantially vertically, and said rotatable member is positioned substantially horizontally.

37. The apparatus as recited in

claim 35, wherein said rotatable member further comprises a top surface and a pair of posts extending from said top surface and placed in spaced relation, wherein an end of the elastomeric belt is trained around one post of said pair of posts.

38. The apparatus as recited in

claim 35, wherein said rotatable member further comprises top plate formed with a pair of throughholes, and a base plate, wherein said base plate includes a pair of posts extending through said pair of throughholes formed in said top plate, said shaft depending from said base plate.

39. The apparatus as recited in

claim 38, further comprising an ejector assembly operably connected to said shaft and configured to reciprocally move said pair of posts away from said top plate.

40. The apparatus as recited in

claim 39, wherein said shaft has an axial channel formed therethrough, and said ejector assembly further comprises:

a rod movably positioned in said axial channel and attached to said top plate; and

an ejector cylinder configured to reciprocally move said rod in said axial channel to thereby reciprocally move said pair of posts away from said top plate.

41. The apparatus as recited in

claim 30, wherein said reciprocal guide assembly further comprises an adjustable spring member, wherein said adjustable spring member is a biased in a direction away from said rotation assembly.

42. The apparatus as recited in

claim 40, wherein said reciprocal guide assembly further comprises a guide plate attached to said adjustable spring member, said guide plate having a post extending therefrom, said post dimensioned to receive an end of the elastomeric belt.

43. A method for compressing an elastomeric belt, wherein the elastomeric belt has an inner surface having a high coefficient of friction and an outer surface, said method comprising the steps of:

circularly compressing the elastomeric belt into a compressed configuration such that at least a section of the inner surface is in frictional contact with another section of the inner surface; and

securing the elastomeric belt in said compressed configuration.

44. The method as recited in

claim 43, further comprising inserting the elastomeric belt in said compressed configuration in a package.

45. The method as recited in

claim 43, wherein the elastomeric belt has an outer surface, and said securing step further comprises placing a securing member about at least a section of the outer surface of the elastomeric belt in said compressed configuration.

46. A method for compressing an elastomeric belt, comprising the steps of:

compressing the elastomeric belt into a compressed configuration, wherein the elastomeric belt in said compressed configuration is characterized by a substantially dual loop center and a single loop exterior; and

maintaining the elastomeric belt in said compressed configuration by applying a constraining force.

47. The method as recited in

claim 46, wherein said constraining force is supplied by a securing member positioned about at least a section of the exterior surface of the elastomeric belt when in said compressed configuration.

48. The method as recited in

claim 48, further comprising inserting the elastomeric belt in said compressed configuration in a package.

49. The method as recited in

claim 46, wherein the elastomeric belt in said compressed configuration exhibits an outward force and wherein said constraining force is substantially equal to the outward force.

50. The method as recited in

claim 46, wherein said substantially dual loop center is substantially S-shaped, and said single loop exterior is substantially U-shaped.

51. A method for compressing an elastomeric belt having an inner surface and an outer surface comprising the steps of:

circularly compressing the elastomeric belt into a compressed configuration such that in the compressed configuration, the elastomeric belt is characterized by a core center and an end, wherein said core center defines a pair of space chambers and said end defines a single space chamber, and wherein the inner surface and outer surface of the elastomeric belt are sequentially in contact with and adjacent one another between said core center and said end; and

maintaining the elastomeric belt in said compressed configuration by applying a constraining force.