ARTICULATING TENSION ADJUSTMENT DEVICE

Abstract

An articulating-tension washer and an articulating-tension arrangement, which includes the washer, for tensioning against and articulation relative to an anchor point. The arrangement includes an elongate member for extension through an aperture defined by the anchor point and having an elongation extending in a direction generally transverse to a first plane within which the anchor point lies. The arrangement includes a tightening member operable for providing a tension force to pull the elongate member through the aperture. The articulating-tension washer is to be retained at the aperture to transmit a force between the tightening member and the elongate member, and includes an arcuate surface for location away from the aperture, the arcuate surface extends in an arc symmetrically across the direction of elongation of the elongate member.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS

Benefit is claimed from U.S. Patent Application No. 63/127,498, filed Dec. 18, 2020, U.S. Patent Application No. 63/127,509, filed Dec. 18, 2020 and U.S. Patent Application No. 63/127,525, filed Dec. 18, 2020, the entire contents and disclosures of these applications are incorporated, in entirety, herein by reference.

FIELD

The present disclosure is a patent application and relates generally to provision of tension to a member, and associated structures and methods, and within a specific example relates to provision of tension to a member in a direction transverse to an anchor point and which permits some articulation movement of the member.

BACKGROUND

Within many situations it is desired to attach and tension a member to an anchor point. Within an example, the tensioned member is an elongated rod. Within an example, the elongated rod is further attached to a cable made of metal of the like. Within an example, the elongate rod is at least partially threaded and extends through an aperture at the anchor point. Within an example, a threaded nut is mated with the threaded portion on the elongated rod. Turning of the nut relative to the elongated rod may cause the elongated rod to be pulled in a direction through aperture at the anchor point. Such pulling causes a tension force to be built-up within the elongated rod.

For some example circumstances, it is desired that the member (e.g., elongated rod) have a major extent (e.g., the elongation of the elongated rod) that is transverse, generally perpendicular, to the anchor point. As such, the tension force is transverse, generally perpendicular, to the anchor point.

BRIEF SUMMARY

The following presents a simplified example summary in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the present disclosure. This summary is not an extensive overview of the present disclosure. It is intended to neither identify key or critical elements nor delineate the scope of the present disclosure. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of the present disclosure in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

For some example circumstances of attaching and tensioning a member to an anchor point, some articulation movement of the member (e.g., elongated rod) is permitted and/or simply occurs. For some example circumstances, the articulation movement may occur repeatedly over time. Such, repeated articulation movement may be associated with changes in a load force that may also be present within the member. Such, changing load force may be cyclic. It is possible that changes in a load force may increase a possibility of a reduction of the tension force (e.g., an increased possibility for the nut to loosen).

As part(s) of an arrangement that includes the member (e.g., elongated rod) and the nut, one or more washers may also be provided. For some example circumstances, it is desirable to avoid binding of the one or more washers that may occur during articulation movement of the member that may occur and/or changes in the load force that may present within the member. For some specific example circumstances, it is desirable to avoid binding of the one or more washers that may occur during articulation movement of the member that may occur and/or changes in the load force that may present within the member with the major extent (e.g., the elongation of the elongated rod) being transverse, generally perpendicular, to the anchor point and the tension force being transverse, generally perpendicular, to the anchor point.

For some example circumstances, it is desirable to avoid wear and/or fatigue that may occur within an arrangement during articulation movement of the member that may occur and/or changes in the load force that may present within the member. For some specific example circumstances, it is desirable to avoid wear and/or fatigue that may occur within the arrangement during articulation movement of the member that may occur and/or changes in the load force that may present within the member with the major extent (e.g., the elongation of the elongated rod) being transverse, generally perpendicular, to the anchor point and the tension force being transverse, generally perpendicular, to the anchor point.

In accordance with at least some aspects, the present disclosure provides an articulating-tension arrangement for tensioning against and articulation relative to an anchor point. The arrangement includes an elongate member for extension through an aperture at the anchor point and having an elongation extending in a direction generally transverse to the anchor point. The arrangement includes a tightening member operable for providing a tension force toward the elongate member to pull the elongate member through the aperture. The arrangement includes an articulating-tension washer, to be retained at the aperture to transmit force between the tightening member and the anchor point, and includes an arcuate surface for location away from the aperture, the arcuate surface extending in an arc symmetrically across the direction of elongation of the elongate member.

In accordance with at least some aspects, the present disclosure provides an articulating-tension arrangement for tensioning against and articulation relative to an anchor point having a bearing face extending is a plane and an aperture therethrough. The arrangement includes an elongate member for extension through the aperture. The elongate member has an elongation extending in a direction generally transverse to the plane. The arrangement includes a tightening member operable for providing a tension force toward the elongate member to pull the elongate member through the aperture. The arrangement includes an articulating-tension washer, to be retained relative to the bearing face to transmit force between the tightening member and the anchor point, that includes an arcuate surface for location away from the bearing face. The arcuate surface extends in an arc symmetrically across the direction of elongation of the elongate member.

I In accordance with at least some aspects, the present disclosure provides an articulating-tension washer for an articulating-tension arrangement to be tensioned against and to permit articulation relative to an anchor point having a bearing face extending in a plane and an aperture therethrough, the arrangement including an elongate member for extending through the aperture, the elongate member having an elongation extending in a direction generally transverse to the plane, and the arrangement including a tightening member operable for providing a tension force toward the elongate member to pull the elongate member through the aperture, wherein the articulating-tension washer, to be retained relative to the bearing face to transmit force between the tightening member and the anchor point, and the articulating-tension washer including an arcuate surface for location away from the bearing face, the arcuate surface extending in an arc symmetrically through the direction of elongation of the elongate member.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

While the techniques presented herein may be embodied in alternative forms, the particular embodiments illustrated in the drawings are only a few examples that are supplemental of the description provided herein. These embodiments are not to be interpreted in a limiting manner, such as limiting the claims appended hereto.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example articulating-tension arrangement that includes an example articulating-tension washer in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the example arrangement, with the example articulating-tension washer, of FIG. 1 cooperating with an example anchor point, which is partially torn away.

FIG. 3A is a first perspective view of the example articulating-tension washer of FIGS. 1 and 2.

FIG. 3B is a second perspective view of the example articulating-tension washer of FIGS. 1 and 2.

FIG. 4A is a section view of the example articulating-tension washer of FIGS. 3A and 3B, section being taken along line A-A in FIG. 4C.

FIG. 4B is a top view of the example articulating-tension washer of FIGS. 3A and 3B.

FIG. 4C is a front view of the example articulating-tension washer of FIGS. 3A and 3B.

FIG. 4D is a side view of the example articulating-tension washer of FIGS. 3A and 3B.

FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view, partially torn away, of the example articulating-tension washer and the example anchor point, and indicating the interaction thereof.

FIG. 6 is perspective view, partially torn away, of the example arrangement of FIGS. 1 and 2 shown within an example system that include a cable, tensioned by the arrangement, the example anchor of FIGS. 2 and 5, and other example anchoring structure.

FIG. 7 is a section view of the portions of the example system shown within FIG. 7.

FIG. 8 is a schematic illustration of the example arrangement of FIGS. 1 and 2 showing three possible pivot positions of the structures other than the example articulating-tension washer relative to the example articulating-tension washer.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Subject matter will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and which show, by way of illustration, specific example embodiments. This description is not intended as an extensive or detailed discussion of known concepts. Details that are known generally to those of ordinary skill in the relevant art may have been omitted, or may be handled in summary fashion.

Certain terminology is used herein for convenience only and is not to be taken as a limitation on the disclosed subject matter. Relative language used herein is best understood with reference to the drawings, in which like numerals are used to identify like or similar items. Further, in the drawings, certain features may be shown in somewhat schematic form.

The following subject matter may be embodied in a variety of different forms, such as methods, devices, components, and/or systems. Accordingly, this subject matter is not intended to be construed as limited to any illustrative embodiments set forth herein as examples. Rather, the embodiments are provided herein merely to be illustrative.

Provided herein are examples of an articulating-tension washer, an articulating-tension arrangement that includes an articulating-tension washer, and a system that includes an articulating-tension arrangement with an articulating-tension washer therein. Also provided herein are example methods of providing and using such.

Within an example and in accordance with an aspect, the present disclosure provides an articulating-tension arrangement for tension against and articulation relative to an anchor point. The arrangement includes an elongate member for extension through an aperture at the anchor point and having an elongation extending in a direction generally transverse to the anchor point. The arrangement includes a tightening member operable for providing a tension force toward the elongate member to pull the elongate member through the aperture. The arrangement includes an articulating-tension washer, to be retained at the aperture to transmit force between the tightening member and the anchor point, that includes an arcuate surface for location away from the aperture, the arcuate surface extending in an arc symmetrically across the direction of elongation of the elongate member.

Within an example and in accordance with an aspect, the present disclosure provides an articulating-tension arrangement for tension against and articulation relative to an anchor point having a bearing face extending is a plane and an aperture therethrough. The arrangement includes an elongate member for extension through the aperture. The elongate member has an elongation extending in a direction generally transverse to the plane. The arrangement includes a tightening member operable for providing a tension force toward the elongate member to pull the elongate member through the aperture. The arrangement includes an articulating-tension washer, to be retained relative to the bearing face to transmit force between the tightening member and the anchor point, that includes an arcuate surface for location away from the bearing face. The arcuate surface extends in an arc symmetrically across the direction of elongation of the elongate member.

Within an example and in accordance with an aspect, the present disclosure provides an articulating-tension washer for an articulating-tension arrangement to be tensioned against and to permit articulation relative to an anchor point having a bearing face extending is a plane and an aperture therethrough, the arrangement including an elongate member for extending through the aperture, the elongate member having an elongation extending in a direction generally transverse to the plane, and the arrangement including a tightening member operable for providing a tension force toward the elongate member to pull the elongate member through the aperture, wherein the articulating-tension washer, to be retained relative to the bearing face to transmit force between the tightening member and the anchor point, and the articulating-tension washer including an arcuate surface for location away from the bearing face, the arcuate surface extending in an arc symmetrically across the direction of elongation of the elongate member.

An example articulating-tension arrangement 10, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, is shown within FIG. 1. Within the shown example, the arrangement 10 includes an elongate member 12, a tightening member 14 and an articulating-tension washer 16. As shown within FIG. 2, the elongate member 12 is for extension through an anchor point (e.g., an anchor member, support member or the like) 20 and the elongate member has an elongation extending in a direction generally transverse (e.g., perpendicular) to the anchor point 20. The tightening member 14 is operable to provide a tension force, imparted into the elongate member 12, that tends to pull the elongate member through an aperture 22 (hidden in FIG. 2, hidden location indicated by a dashed line) of the anchor point 20. The force tending to pull the elongate member 12 is the tension force. The articulating-tension washer 16 is retained at the anchor point 20 to transmit force between the tightening member 14/elongate member 12 and the anchor point 20. Accordingly, the articulating-tension washer 16 bears upon the anchor point 20, and thus the anchor point 20 has a bearing face (e.g., a surface) 24 against which the articulating-tension washer 16.

The articulating-tension washer 16 has an arcuate (i.e., curved) surface 26. The arcuate surface 26 is located to face away from the anchor point 20 and extends in an arc symmetrically across (i.e., transverse) the direction of elongation of the elongate member 12. Such construction and configuration permit secure tension and articulation traverse, i.e., generally perpendicular, to the anchor point 20. Binding, and possible associated fatigue that may occur during loading including cyclical loading, may be avoided by such construction and configuration. Such aspects, and other aspects, are discussed further following.

It is to be appreciated that within the example shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the elongate member 12 may be an example male threaded rod 12 and the tightening member 14 may be an example female threaded nut 14. The threaded nut 14 mates onto the threaded rod 12. The threaded nut 14 may be rotated relative to the threaded rod 12 so that rotational force applied to the threaded nut is converted into a linear pulling force to provide the tensioning force within the threaded rod. Such cooperation and operation are logically well-understood by the person of ordinary skill in the art.

It is to be appreciated that the elongate member 12 and the tightening member 14 may have other constructions/configurations. As such, the example of the elongate member 12 being a threaded rod and the tightening member 14 being a threaded nut need not be limitations upon the present disclosure. It is to be appreciated that one example material for the elongate member (e.g., the rod) 12 and the tightening member (e.g., the nut) 14 may be metal, such as steel. Of course, other materials are possible, contemplated and within the scope of the present disclosure.

Also, it is to be noted that some additional and optional example structures are shown within FIGS. 1 and 2. It is to be appreciated that such additional and optional structures may be present, absent or replaced with other, different examples structures. As such, the additional and optional structures need not be limitations upon the present disclosure. The shown additional and optional structures are to indicate some examples of how the information within the present disclosure may be utilized. The shown additional and optional structures are discussed further below.

An example of an additional/optional example structure is a lock nut 28 (see FIG. 1) added onto the elongate member (e.g., the rod) 12 and abutting against the tightening member (e.g., the nut) 14. Similar to the tightening member (e.g., the nut) 14, the lock nut 28 may be a threaded nut. Tightening of the lock nut 28 into engagement with the tightening member 14 helps prevent further movement, and specifically a loosening movement, of the tightening member 14. As mentioned, such is additional/optional, but can be useful and logical. Also, the function of preventing further movement, and specifically a loosening movement, of the tightening member 14 may be accomplished via other additional/optional structures/mechanisms. For example, a movement prevention coating may be applied to the threads of the elongate member (e.g., the rod) 12 and the tightening member (e.g., the nut) 14. As another example, a retention clip, pin, binder, welding, etc. may be interconnected between the elongate member (e.g., the rod) 12 and the tightening member (e.g., the nut) 14. Other options to prevent further movement, and specifically a loosening movement, of the tightening member 14 are contemplated and within the scope of the present disclosure. It is to be appreciated that specifics of additional/optional structures/mechanisms for prevent further movement, and specifically a loosening movement, of the tightening member 14 need not be limitations upon the present disclosure. Still further, it is to be appreciated that the example of the lock nut 28 shown with FIG. 1 is understood as showing that the option of such can occur. Moreover, it is to be appreciated that the example of the lock nut 28 shown with FIG. 1 is understood as indicating/showing such to be optionally present or optionally not present in the any/all of the other figures and/or any/all other presented examples. For such other figures and/or any/all other presented examples, the lock nut 28 may not be shown/presented to simply avoid extra clutter in the figures/discussion. But again to be clear, the lock nut 28, or other additional/optional structures/mechanisms for prevent further movement, may be present for the other figures/examples via this clear indication of such possibility.

Focusing upon the articulating-tension washer 16, attention is directed to FIGS. 3A through 4D, which show some details of an example of the articulating-tension washer. It is to be noted that the shown example of the articulating-tension washer 16 is simply an example and that variations, modifications and the like are possible, contemplated and within the scope of the present disclosure.

The example articulating-tension washer 16 includes a through aperture 32. The aperture 32 extends completely through from a first side 34 (see FIG. 3A) to a second side 36 (see FIG. 3B). As is easily seen and appreciated from FIG. 4A, the aperture 32 tapers radially outwardly, in a truncated cone-like shape from the first side 34 to the second side 36. Specifically, the diameter of the aperture 32 is relatively smaller adjacent to the first side 34 and is relatively larger adjacent to the second side 36. It is contemplated that the taper may extend for the entire length of the aperture 32 or may extend for a majority of the length of the aperture (e.g., the aperture possibly includes some non-tapered portion). As such, the aperture 32 include a conic segment. The conic segment has a taper of angle α. Within an example, which is shown in FIG. 4A, the taper angle α is an 8° taper as measured from a direction of a center axis 42 of the aperture 32. So, as seen in FIG. 4A, an upper portion of the conic extends at an 8° angle up from the direction of the axis 42 (i.e., which is horizontal as viewed in FIG. 4A) and a lower portion of the conic extends at a taper angle α (e.g., an 8° angle) down from the direction of the axis (i.e., which is horizontal as viewed in FIG. 4A). However, it is to be appreciated that a different taper angle α (i.e., different than 8°) is contemplated and within the scope of the present disclosure.

It is to be appreciated the respective opening of the aperture 32 at each of the first and second sides 34, 36 of the articulating-tension washer 16 is circular in cross-section. The diameter of the aperture 32 at the first side 34 is smaller than the diameter of the aperture at the second side 36 (i.e., diameter is larger at the second side). A taper β (see FIG. 4B) may provide for the difference in diameter.

It is to be appreciated that, as viewed in FIGS. 3A, 3B, 4A, 4B, and 4D, the aperture 32 extends along a horizontal direction. Within these Figures such direction/orientation is identified to provide ease of reference. As viewed in FIGS. 3A, 3B, 4A, 4B, and 4D, it is to be appreciated that the example articulating-tension washer 16 has symmetrical structures above and below (i.e., vertically) the aperture 32.

Focusing upon the first side 34 (e.g., see FIG. 3A), the articulating-tension washer has the arcuate surface 26. The arcuate surface 26 extends in a convex curve or arc. The aperture 32 is centered relative to the arcuate surface 26. In general, the arcuate surface 26 is smooth and may be considered to be a segment of a cylindrical surface, with a cylinder axis being oriented horizontally and transverse to the axis 42 of the aperture 32. With the elongate member 12 (see FIGS. 1 and 2), extending through the aperture 32, the arcuate surface 26 thus extends in an arc symmetrically across (i.e., transverse) the direction of elongation of the elongate member. It is contemplated that the amount of curvature (e.g., radius of the arc) may be of a different/varied amount or be changed/adjusted and that such variation/change is within the scope of the present disclosure and the specific amount of curvature (e.g., radius of the arc) need not be a specific limitation upon the present disclosure.

Focusing upon the second side 36 (e.g., see FIG. 3B), a significant portion of the second side is a flat, planar surface 46. The planar surface 46 extends in a plane that is transverse (e.g., perpendicular) to the axis 42 of the aperture 32. The planar surface 46 extends to the outer periphery of the second side 36. Within the shown example, the arcuate surface 26 of the first side 34 meets/intersects the planar surface 46 of the second side 36 at the top (as viewed in FIGS. 3A, 3B, 4A, 4B, and 4D) and the bottom of the articulating-tension washer 16. A protruding boss 50 extends outwardly from the plane of the planar surface 46. The boss 50 encircles the aperture 32 that extends through the articulating-tension washer 16. As such, the boss 50 has the shape of a short, hollow cylinder.

It is to be appreciated that the articulating-tension washer 16 may have some additional structural aspects. For example, the shown example articulating-tension washer 16 includes clipped or filleted shoulders adjacent each of the top (as viewed in FIGS. 3A, 3B, 4A, 4B, and 4D) and the bottom of the articulating-tension washer. Also, the shown example articulating-tension washer 16 includes some smoothed/contoured surface junctions. It is to be appreciated that such additional structural aspects may or may not be present, may be different, etc., and that such difference/variation is within contemplated and within the scope of the present disclosure. It is to be appreciated that one example material for the articulating-tension washer 16 may be metal, such as galvanized iron. Of course, other materials are possible, contemplated and with the scope of the present disclosure.

Turning now to some functional/operational aspects of the articulating-tension washer 16, attention is first directed to FIG. 5, in which an example of the vertical anchor point (e.g., anchor member) 20 is partially shown. The vertical anchor point 20 is at least part of a system 60 (FIGS. 6 and 7) within which the example articulating-tension arrangement 10 is utilized/employed. Note that the vertical anchor point 20 (see FIG. 5) includes a planar segment 64 through which the aperture 22 extends. The bearing face (e.g., surface) 24 is on the planar segment 64. Note that the planar segment 64 extends in a vertical plane and that a center axis of the aperture 22 is thus transverse (e.g., perpendicular) to the vertical plane. As such, the axis of the aperture 22 is thus generally horizontal relative to the vertical anchor point 20 and with reference to views shown in the Figures.

Note that the aperture 22 through the planar segment 64 is sized such that the boss 50 of the articulating-tension washer 16 fits into the aperture 22 through the planar segment 64. The remainder of the articulating-tension washer 16, and in particular the planar surface 46 of the articulating-tension washer, does not fit into the aperture 22 of the anchor point 20. As such, the planer surface 46 of the articulating-tension washer 16 is configured to face against and abut against the bearing face (e.g., surface) 24 of the planar segment 64 of the anchor point 20. Such is easily seen in FIG. 7. Also, it is clear that the arcuate surface 26 of the articulating-tension washer 16 is located away from the bearing face (e.g., surface) 24 of the planar segment 64.

It is to be noted that the anchor point 20 may have other/optional structures. As an example, reinforcing ribs or legs 66 are shown (e.g., see FIG. 5) as extending transversely from the planar segment 64. Such reinforcing ribs or legs 66 may provide rigidity or strength. As another example, additional apertures/holes 68 are shown as extending through the planar segment. Such additional apertures/holes 68 may be utilized for connection(s) to other items, members or the like (e.g., 70, see FIGS. 6 and 7). Such connection(s) may be for a variety of functions. Such other structures of the anchor point 20 are contemplated, within the scope of the present disclosure and are not limitations upon the present disclosure. As an example of such optional other items, members or the like (e.g., 70), see the portion of an angled stay 70, which is an optional item, connected to the anchor point 20 shown within FIGS. 6 and 7. It is to be appreciated that the presence or absence of such other optional items, members or the like is not a limitation upon the present disclosure.

Please note that the anchor point 20 may be supported, affixed or the like to something else, such as the ground, concreate-embedment, other structures, etc. The details of such support, affixing or the like to can be varied, such variations are contemplated and within the scope of this disclosure. It is to be noted that the planar segment 64 may extend in a vertical plane and the axis of the aperture 22 may be generally horizontal in a use environment.

It is to be appreciated that within an example, the articulating-tension arrangement 10, which includes the articulating-tension washer 16, is for tensioning (i.e., pulling) against the anchor point 20. As such and as mentioned, the articulating-tension arrangement 10 may be part of a system 60. FIGS. 1, 2, 6 and 7 show some example additional portions of such an example system 60. Within the shown example, the system 60 is a cable tension system 60 and the shown example additional portions are associated with the example cable tension system. Of course, other example systems are possible, contemplated and thus within the scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the present disclosure is not limited to only the shown example system.

Within the shown example, the articulating-tension arrangement 10 also includes a cable attachment 74. The cable attachment 74 is secured (e.g., via one or more threaded nuts 76) onto the elongate member (e.g., the threaded rod) 12. The cable attachment 74 includes a frame 78 and a spool 80 supported by the frame via a pin. A cable, or cable holding member(s), 84 may extend around the spool 80 such that force (e.g., tension force) may be transmitted from the articulating-tension arrangement 10 (e.g., through the elongate member 12, the cable attachment frame 78 and the spool 80) to the cable holding member/cable 84. The cable may extend as desired to some other, possible distal location and may even extend to some other device, structure or the like. The specifics of the cable extent, other connections, etc. can be varied. Such variations are contemplated and within the scope of the present disclosure, and need not be limitations upon the present disclosure.

Also within the shown example, the articulating-tension arrangement 10 includes an optional example flat washer 90 that is located upon the elongated member (e.g., threaded rod) 12, at a location that is interposed between the articulating-tension washer 16 and the tightening member (e.g., threaded nut) 14. Specifically, the flat washer 90 is in engagement with the arcuate surface 26 of the articulating-tension washer. The flat washer 90 has an aperture therethrough and two oppositely facing flat sides. Within an example, the flat washer 90 is made of metal, however other materials are contemplated and thus within the scope of the present disclosure. Within the shown example, the example flat washer 90 is shown as having a polygonal (e.g., square) outer periphery. However, it is to be appreciated that other outer periphery shapes (e.g., non-square polygonal, round, ovoid, etc.) are possible, contemplated and within the scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the present disclosure is not limited to the specifics of the flat washer 90.

The flat washer 90 is to transmit force between the tightening member (e.g., threaded nut) 14 and the articulating-tension washer 16. Also, the flat washer 90 may provide a function of permitting a smooth, or at least relatively smooth/smoother, pivoting/tilting motion of the flat washer 90 upon the arcuate surface 26 of the articulating-tension washer 16. Such pivoting/tilting motion may occur during a motion, and possibly a specific articulation (i.e., pivoting) motion, of the elongate member (e.g., threaded rod) 12 relative to the articulating-tension washer 16 and the anchor point 20 to which the articulating-tension washer is engaged and is bearing upon. Such connection/movement of the elongate member 12 and the articulating-tension washer 16 is articulation (e.g., connected so as to permit motion).

It is to be appreciated that the presence of the flat washer 90 is shown within the presented example and is logical. However, it is to be appreciated that it is contemplated that within some examples it may be possible to omit the flat washer 90. For such examples, the tightening member (i.e., threaded nut) 14 could engage and bear directly upon the articulating-tension washer 16. It is contemplated that such examples possibly may not operate as efficiently as examples that include the flat washer 90. Also, such examples in which the flat washer 90 is not present may employ a different tightening member (e.g., threaded nut) 14 than as shown within the Figures. Some possible examples of such a different tightening member 14 may be a larger periphery tightening member, a tightening member that includes a collar bushing, or the like. So, the option of the presence of the flat washer 90 and the option of the absence of the flat washer 90 are both within the scope of the present disclosure. It is also to be appreciated that the flat washer 90 may be provided as an optional multi-component arrangement/device (e.g., stacked plural flat washers). Such options are also within the scope of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 shows that the amount of force, and specifically tension force, can be adjusted via tighten/loosen the tightening member 14. Specifically, the horizontal double-headed arrowhead indicates adjustment movement of the elongate member 12 relative to the anchor point 20. Movement of the elongate member 12 toward the right, as viewed within FIG. 7, via operation (i.e., turning to tighten) of the tightening member 14 increases the tension force. Movement of the elongate member 12 toward the left, as viewed within FIG. 7, via operation (i.e., turning to loosen) of the tightening member 14 decreases the tension force.

FIG. 7 also indicates that the tension direction (a pulling force toward the right as viewed in FIG. 7) is transverse (e.g., perpendicular) to the planar extend of the anchor point 20. Also, within the orientation of FIG. 7, the figure shows that the tension direction is horizontal.

It is to be appreciated that at least one, and possibly more than one, condition, event or the like may impose a vertical (as viewed in FIG. 7) force upon a distal end (i.e., the end at which the cable attachment 74 is located) of the articulating-tension arrangement 10. The vertical force may be either upward or downward. See the vertical double-headed arrowhead at the location of the cable attachment 74.

In accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the articulating-tension arrangement 10 may accommodate/accept such force. For such, it is contemplated that the elongate member 12 may tilt or pivot. Moreover, in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the articulating-tension arrangement 10 may accommodate/accept such force without issues such as binding, wear, or the like. Also, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, such helps avoid unintended loosening of the tightening member 14.

In accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure, the elongate member 12 is permitted to pivot relative to the articulating-tension washer 16 and the anchor point 20 against which the articulating-tension washer bears. With reference to at least FIG. 7, see that the elongate member 12 has room to pivot within the conic shape of the aperture 32 within the articulating-tension washer 16. Also, with reference to at least FIGS. 7 and 8, see that the arcuate surface 26 on the first side 34 of the articulating-tension washer 16 permits movement (e.g., rocking or pivoting) along the arcuate surface. Such permitted movement may be the by the flat washer 90, if present, and/or the tightening member 14. Such, permitted movement (e.g., rocking) on the arcuate surface 26 avoids binding and/or fatigue occurring upon/within parts of the articulating-tension arrangement 10.

It is to be appreciated that the permitted movement is equally permitted both upward (as viewed within FIGS. 7 and 8) and downward. Such is due to the construction/configuration of the articulating-tension washer 16, and specifically the arcuate surface 26 being symmetrical, about (i.e., above and below) the axis of the aperture 32 in the vertical direction. See also FIG. 4A, which shows the conic taper of the aperture 32 being both above the axis 42 and bellow the axis, and also the curve of the arcuate surface 26 being both above the axis 42 and below the axis 42. The portion of the arcuate surface 26 above the axis 42 could be considered to be a mirror-image of the portion of the arcuate surface 26 below the axis 42.

Attention is directed to FIG. 8 which shows three possible pivot positions of the elongate member 12 relative to the articulating-tension washer 16. Note that the articulating-tension washer 16 remains stationary (i.e., as would occur with the protruding boss 50 within the aperture 22 of the anchor point 20, and the planar surface 46 bearing upon the planar segment 64 of the anchor, see FIGS. 5-7). Within the shown example of FIG. 8, the shown middle position occurs with the elongate member 12 aligned with the axis 42 of the aperture 32 of the articulating-tension washer 16.

The shown “left side tipped lower” position (as shown in FIG. 8, which is shown in phantom and indicated with reference numerals provided with the addition of “′” (prime)) is to provide an appreciation that the position is a possible position that occurs with the elongate member 12 pivoted “left side down” relative to the axis of the aperture of the articulating-tension washer 16. Note that the flat washer 90′ and the tightening member 14′ are shown in a rocked/pivoted position up the arcuate surface 26 of the articulating-tension washer 16. Note that the rocking/pivoting of the flat washer 90 and the tightening member 14 is at a location away from the bearing face 24 of the anchor point 20. So, the articulating-tension washer 16 allows the elongate member 12 to “articulate.”

Within one example (e.g., see FIG. 8) regarding the movement or articulation of the elongate member 12, the angle of pivot is 8° from the axis of the aperture of the articulating-tension washer 16. It is to be recalled, that an example of the articulating-tension washer 16 included an example conic taper of 8° for the aperture of articulating-tension washer. Accordingly, the shown “left side tipped lower” position would be a maximum downward permitted pivoting for such example.

The shown “left side tipped higher” position (as shown in FIG. 8, which is shown in phantom and indicated with reference numerals provided with the addition of “″” (double prime)) occurs with the elongate member 12 pivoted up relative to the axis of the aperture of the articulating-tension washer 16. Within one example, the angle of pivot is 8° from the axis of the aperture of the articulating-tension washer. Note that the flat washer 90″ and the tightening member 14″ are shown in a rocked/pivoted position down the arcuate surface 26 of the articulating-tension washer 16. So, the articulating-tension washer 16 allows the elongate member 12 to “articulate.”

It is to be recalled, that an example of the articulating-tension washer included a conic taper of 8° for the aperture of articulating-tension washer 16. Accordingly, the shown “left side tipped higher” position would be a maximum upward permitted pivoting for such example.

It is to be appreciated that the angle of pivot may be different (i.e., other than 8°). Such, different angles of pivot are within the scope of the present disclosure. In other words, the angle of pivot being 8° is only an example and need not be a specific limitation upon the present disclosure.

It is to be appreciated that the discussed example is presented in terms of the articulating-tension washer 16 having the arcuate surface 26 oriented with the arc in a vertical plane, and thus the permitted pivoting of the elongate member 12 is within a vertical plane. Such orientation/function may be useful for load force/tension force that is horizontal. It is to be appreciated that a different orientation of the articulating-tension washer 16 may be selected/utilized. Attention is directed to FIG. 2, which shows that any orientation (i.e., any rotational position within 360° of rotation availability) is possible and contemplated. Thus, such is within the scope of the present disclosure. Such selection may be useful to accommodate particular directional forces that may be imposed upon the elongate member 12, and thus accommodate particular directional pivot movements that may be occur for the elongate member.

Of course, methods of making the articulating-tension arrangement and/or the articulating-tension washer, and portions thereof, and methods of utilizing the articulating-tension arrangement and/or the articulating-tension washer, and portions thereof, are contemplated and within the scope of the present disclosure.

The example claims following present various example aspects. The contents of the claims are incorporated herein at into this specification by reference.

The accompanying drawings present various example aspects. The contents of the drawings are incorporated herein at into this specification by reference.

Unless specified otherwise, “first,” “second,” and/or the like are not intended to imply a temporal aspect, a spatial aspect, an ordering, etc. Rather, such terms are merely used as identifiers, names, etc. for features, elements, items, etc. For example, a first object and a second object generally correspond to object A and object B or two different or two identical objects or the same object.

Moreover, “example” is used herein to mean serving as an instance, illustration, etc., and not necessarily as advantageous. As used herein, “or” is intended to mean an inclusive “or” rather than an exclusive “or.” In addition, “a” and “an” as used in this application are generally be construed to mean “one or more” unless specified otherwise or clear from context to be directed to a singular form. Also, at least one of A and B and/or the like generally means A or B or both A and B. Furthermore, to the extent that “includes,” “having,” “has,” “with,” and/or variants thereof are used in either the detailed description or the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising.”

Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and/or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing at least some of the claims.

Various operations of embodiments are provided herein. The order in which some or all of the operations are described herein should not be construed as to imply that these operations are necessarily order dependent. Alternative ordering will be appreciated by one skilled in the art having the benefit of this description. Further, it will be understood that not all operations are necessarily present in each embodiment provided herein. Also, it will be understood that not all operations are necessary in some embodiments.

Also, although the disclosure has been shown and described with respect to one or more implementations, equivalent alterations and modifications will occur to others skilled in the art based upon a reading and understanding of this specification and the annexed drawings. The disclosure includes all such modifications and alterations and is limited only by the scope of the following claims. In particular regard to the various functions performed by the above-described components (e.g., elements, resources, etc.), the terms used to describe such components are intended to correspond, unless otherwise indicated, to any component which performs the specified function of the described component (e.g., that is functionally equivalent), even though not structurally equivalent to the disclosed structure. In addition, while a particular feature of the disclosure may have been disclosed with respect to only one of several implementations, such feature may be combined with one or more other features of the other implementations as may be desired and advantageous for any given or particular application.

Claims

1. An articulating-tension arrangement for tensioning against and articulation relative to an anchor point, the arrangement including:

an elongate member for extension through an aperture defined by the anchor point and having an elongation extending in a direction generally transverse to a first plane within which the anchor point lies;

a tightening member operable for providing a tension force to pull the elongate member through the aperture; and

an articulating-tension washer, to be retained at the aperture to transmit a force between the tightening member and the anchor point, including an arcuate surface for location away from the aperture, the arcuate surface extending in an arc symmetrically across the direction of elongation of the elongate member.

2. The arrangement as set forth in claim 1, wherein the articulating-tension washer is configured to permit pivoting of the elongate member relative to the arcuate surface of the articulating-tension washer.

3. The arrangement as set forth in claim 1, wherein the articulating-tension washer defines a through aperture, the elongate member extends through the through aperture, the through aperture and the elongate member are configured such that the elongate member is permitted to pivot within the through aperture.

4. The arrangement as set forth in claim 3, wherein the through aperture of the articulating-tension washer includes a conical segment.

5. The arrangement as set forth in claim 1, wherein the articulating-tension washer is configured to permit rocking of the tightening member relative to the arcuate surface of the articulating-tension washer.

6. The arrangement as set forth in claim 1, including a flat washer interposed between the tightening member and the articulating-tension washer.

7. The arrangement as set forth in claim 6, wherein the flat washer is configured to permit pivoting of the elongate member relative to the arcuate surface of the articulating-tension washer.

8. The arrangement as set forth in claim 6, wherein the articulating-tension washer is configured to permit rocking of the tightening member and the flat washer relative to the arcuate surface of the articulating-tension washer.

9. The arrangement as set forth in claim 1, wherein the articulating-tension washer includes a first side and a second side, and defines a through aperture extending between the first side and the second side and having an axis, the arcuate surface is located at the first side, the articulating-tension washer includes a flat surface located at the second side, the flat surface for engaging the anchor point, and the flat surface extending in a second plane that is generally transverse to the elongation of the elongate member and generally transverse to the axis of the through aperture.

10. The arrangement as set forth in claim 9, wherein the articulating-tension washer includes a protruding boss located on the second side, protruding from the flat surface, and encircling the through aperture.

11. The arrangement as set forth in claim 1, wherein the articulating-tension washer defines a through aperture having an axis, and the arcuate surface is symmetrical across the axis.

12. An articulating-tension arrangement for tensioning against and articulation relative to an anchor point having a bearing face extending in a plane and an aperture therethrough, the arrangement including:

an elongate member for extension through the aperture, the elongate member having an elongation extending in a direction generally transverse to the plane;

a tightening member operable for providing a tension force to pull the elongate member through the aperture; and

an articulating-tension washer, to be retained relative to the bearing face to transmit a force between the tightening member and the anchor point, including an arcuate surface for location away from the bearing face, the arcuate surface extending in an arc symmetrically across the direction of elongation of the elongate member.

13. The arrangement as set forth in claim 12, wherein the articulating-tension washer is configured to permit pivoting of the elongate member relative to the arcuate surface of the articulating-tension washer.

14. The arrangement as set forth in claim 12, wherein the articulating-tension washer defines a through aperture, the elongate member extends through the through aperture, the through aperture and the elongate member are configured such that the elongate member is permitted to pivot within the through aperture.

15. The arrangement as set forth in claim 14, wherein the through aperture of the articulating-tension washer includes a conical segment.

16. The arrangement as set forth in claim 12, wherein the articulating-tension washer is configured to permit rocking of the tightening member relative to the arcuate surface of the articulating-tension washer at a location away from the bearing face.

17. The arrangement as set forth in claim 12, including a flat washer interposed between the tightening member and the articulating-tension washer.

18. The arrangement as set forth in claim 17, wherein the flat washer is configured to permit pivoting of the elongate member relative to the arcuate surface of the articulating-tension washer at a location away from the bearing face.

19. An articulating-tension washer for an articulating-tension arrangement to be tensioned against and to permit articulation relative to an anchor point having a bearing face extending in a plane and an aperture therethrough, the arrangement including an elongate member for extending through the aperture, the elongate member having an elongation extending in a direction generally transverse to the plane, and the arrangement including a tightening member operable for providing a tension force to pull the elongate member through the aperture, wherein the articulating-tension washer is to be retained relative to the bearing face to transmit a force between the tightening member and the anchor point, and the articulating-tension washer includes an arcuate surface for location away from the bearing face, the arcuate surface extending in an arc symmetrically across the direction of elongation of the elongate member.

20. The articulating-tension washer as set forth in claim 19, wherein the articulating-tension washer is configured to permit rocking of the tightening member relative to the arcuate surface of the articulating-tension washer at a location away from the bearing face.