Abstract: A holdback system is provided which allows additional rotation of a shaft following actuation of an associated holdback device. That additional rotation of a shaft permits other associated holdbacks to actuate. This additional rotation of a rotatable shaft, such as a shaft of a speed reducer, is accomplished by providing a helical gear of a speed reducer mechanism in gear mesh relation with a helical gear of a speed reducer and, in addition, allowing the driven helical gear of the holdback mechanism to move axially after the holdback mechanism is actuated. This axial movement permits the driving helical gear of the speed reducer to rotate by a preselected amount and allow the entire system to move a slight degree in the reverse direction. This reverse movement permits other later actuated holdbacks to actuate and share the overall load with the earliest actuating holdback.

Abstract: A safety guard for enclosing the flexible drive between an assemblage of a driving shaft and a driven shaft has a backplate with elongated openings. The driving and driven shafts extend through the elongated openings. A mounting track is attached to the rear of the backplate. A mounting nut is captured within the mounting track such that the nut can slide over the length of the track. A bolt fastens to the mounting nut to attack the backplate to the assemblage of the driving and driven shafts. In a preferred form, mounting strips having a slot are attached to the assemblage of the driving and driven shafts. The slots are preferably arranged in a direction that intersects the mounting track, and the bolt can be located along the slot. A cover can be releasably mounted against the backplate to form an enclosure. Closure strips are inserted into the portions of the elongated openings to further enclose the flexible drive.