Guide Roll Mounted For Movement Of Its Axis Along Arcuate Path To Tension Belt Patents (Class 474/133)
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Publication number: 20110224039Abstract: A process for producing a sliding bearing bush in a cast component of lightweight metal, preferably a tensioning lever of a belt tensioner. The process includes the following steps: a die, which forms the seat for a sliding bearing bush to be pressed in and has radially outer groove drawing noses, is inserted into a lightweight metal pressure die-casting die. After the liquid lightweight metal has been injected into the lightweight metal pressure die-casting die and subsequently solidified, the die is then drawn out of the lightweight metal pressure die-casting die in such a way that an aperture, which has a groove profile, is formed as a seat for the sliding bearing bush to be pressed in.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 3, 2008Publication date: September 15, 2011Applicant: SCHAEFFLER KGInventors: Michael Huss, Hermann Stief, Thomas Kraft
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Patent number: 8002657Abstract: A tensioner operable to substantially maintain a specified tension in a flexible drive, such as a belt or chain, includes a spring, mounted laterally to the pivot shaft of the tensioner, which biases the tensioner arm towards the flexible drive. The spring is arcuate in shape and is maintained in a correspondingly arc-shaped spring retainer on a mounting plate of the tensioner. The arcuate shape of the spring and spring guide on the tensioner arm follows as the tensioner arm pivots towards and away from the flexible drive. The tensioner also has a wear take up mechanism to maintain the friction bushing in continuous engagement with the tensioner arm.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2006Date of Patent: August 23, 2011Assignee: Litens Automotive PartnershipInventors: John R. Antchak, James W. Dell, Hubertus G. Mevissen
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Patent number: 7993226Abstract: A clamping device with mechanical damping for a traction mechanism drive is provided. The device includes a clamping arm which carries a tension roller on one end thereof and is rotatably mounted in a housing at the other end thereof via a shaft connected thereto in a rotationally fixed manner, and is elastically supported on the housing by a torsion spring. A free end of the shaft is connected to a friction disk in a rotationally fixed manner, and a friction lining is arranged between the friction disk and an axial abutment surface of the housing. The invention reduces the friction lining wear and increases the damping capacity thereof. To accomplish this, a separate friction disk (7??) is connected to a separate friction lining (8??) in a positively locked manner without play, and the separate friction lining ((8??) is in frictional contact with the axial abutment surface (10) of the housing (1).Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2005Date of Patent: August 9, 2011Assignee: Schaeffler Technologies GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Stefan Mack, Bernd Hartmann, Thomas Mennerat, Jorg Kaiser, Manfred Wilhelm
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Patent number: 7980976Abstract: A tensioner for tensioning a flexible drive means, such as a timing belt or chain, includes a pulley to contact the belt. The pulley is mounted on a tensioner arm and the tensioner arm can be rotated about a pivot shaft mounted to the tensioner by a spring. The axis about which the pulley rotates is spaced from the axis of the rotation of the tensioner arm with respect to the pivot shaft and the spacing of these axes of rotation results in the pulley moving through an eccentric towards or away from the belt when the tensioner arm is rotated. A stop is used to limit the range of movement of the tensioner arm between a desired range of movement defined by a free arm stop and a backstop. The position of the stop is adjustable by an installer. The angular range of movement of the tensioner arm is adjustable from a position suitable for installation of the tensioner to a position suitable for operation of the installed tensioner.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2006Date of Patent: July 19, 2011Assignee: Litens Automotive Inc.Inventors: Jacek Stepniak, Jorma J. Lehtovaara, Marek Frankowski
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Patent number: 7972232Abstract: A chain drive tensioner system with translating pivot point is disclosed. The chain drive tensioner system with translating pivot point includes a chain drive tensioner assembly and a tensioner arm in operable communication with a chain. The chain drive tensioner assembly is in operable communication with the tensioner arm, and the tensioner assembly is moveable between a first tensioner position and a second tensioner position. The tensioner arm includes an internal gear and an external gear rotatably mounted within the internal gear, such that movement of the tensioner assembly from the first tensioner position to the second tensioner position along with concurrent rotation of the external gear within the internal gear is operable to move the tensioner arm laterally from a first position to a second position.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2008Date of Patent: July 5, 2011Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventor: Clyde A. Bulloch
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Publication number: 20110081999Abstract: A belt assembly and adjustment mechanism for a belt drive system including a belt. The belt assembly and adjustment mechanism includes a first bracket that is attachable to a first portion of the belt drive system, and a second bracket that is attachable to a second portion of the belt drive system. The second portion is different from the first portion. The mechanism also includes a belt drive system component that is positioned between the first bracket and the second bracket. The component is pivotally coupled to the first bracket on one side of the component and is pivotally coupled to the second bracket on another side of the component. The component is further slidably coupled to one of the first bracket and the second bracket such that the component is movable between a first orientation at which the belt is configured to be tensioned and a second orientation at which the belt is configured to be installed on the component.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 1, 2010Publication date: April 7, 2011Applicant: THERMO KING CORPORATIONInventor: Brendan H. Geraghty
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Patent number: 7918755Abstract: An eccentric tensioning device for tensioning a traction means is provided. The eccentric tensioning device includes a track roller device having a running disk and a rolling bearing, a work eccentric for supporting the track roller device, the work eccentric being supported on an adjustment eccentric, a single torsion spring for pretensioning the work eccentric, and a fixing device for securing the work eccentric in a mounting position in which the torsion spring is located in a pretensioned state. The fixing device is positionable on a flange surface upon which the eccentric tensioning device is mountable during attachment, in which the running disk is forced radially relative to the rotating axis of the rolling bearing against the associated traction means under effect of the work eccentric, and a free switching path is traversed through an axial play being overcome against an axial force applied solely by the torsion spring.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2010Date of Patent: April 5, 2011Assignee: Schaeffler Technologies GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Rainer Baumuller, Roland Arneth, Niels Flamig
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Publication number: 20110070984Abstract: An accessory drive tensioner assembly may include a bracket assembly, a fastener and a tensioner hub. The bracket assembly may include first and second bearings axially spaced from one another. The fastener may extend through the first and second bearings to rotationally couple the bracket assembly to an engine structure and may define a rotational axis for the bracket assembly. The tensioner hub may be coupled to the bracket assembly and may be located axially between the first and second bearings.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 23, 2009Publication date: March 24, 2011Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.Inventor: SCOTT W. KOTZUR
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Patent number: 7901310Abstract: A belt tensioner for a belt drive is designed to connect an engine shaft of an internal-combustion engine to a reversible electric machine which has the function of starting motor and current generator; the belt tensioner comprises a fixed part and a pair of arms, hinged on a common pin carried by the fixed part and provided with respective idle pulleys, and a spring, which forces the two arms towards one another so as to load the pulleys elastically against respective branches of the belt. The two arms of the belt tensioner are provided with respective first arrest elements, which are designed to interact with the fixed portion to define respective positions of arrest of the arms themselves under the action of the spring, and respective second arrest elements, which are designed to interact with the fixed portion to define respective positions of end-of-travel of the arms under the action of the pull of the belt.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 2003Date of Patent: March 8, 2011Assignee: Dayco Europe S.R.L.Inventors: Sergio Lolli, Luca D'Amicantonio
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Patent number: 7887445Abstract: A tensioner for tensioning a belt includes a support housing that defines, at least in part, a spring cavity and an arm pivotably attached to the support housing. A spring is disposed in the spring cavity and is operatively connected to the arm and support housing to bias the arm to pivot relative to the support housing. The spring is a round wire coil spring having an unloaded axial height and wherein the spring cavity has a height greater than the unloaded axial height of the spring.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 2005Date of Patent: February 15, 2011Assignee: Dayco Products, LLCInventors: James G. Quintus, Edward A. Rammel
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Patent number: 7883436Abstract: An assembly for maintaining tension in a drive belt features a housing mounted on a base. The housing contains a biasing element that exerts torque on the housing to bias the housing in a radial direction. A lever arm is connected to the housing and rotates with the housing in response to the bias of the biasing element. A pulley is connected to the lever arm and engages a drive belt in response to the bias force of the biasing element on the lever arm. The pulley deflects the shape of the belt to provide tension in the belt. In one embodiment, the apparatus allows the user to switch the position of the biasing element and alter the direction of torque on the lever arm. In another embodiment, the lever arm and pulley are removable from the housing and replaceable with other arms and pulleys having different configurations.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2004Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: Fenner U.S., Inc.Inventors: Eric S Mosser, Francis B Fatato
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Publication number: 20110015015Abstract: A mechanical tensioner that includes a pulley arm with a tension pulley for a tension element drive of an internal combustion engine. The pulley arm is mounted to a mounting base that is fixedly attached to the engine. A spring that functions in compression and torsion is located about a pivot axis on the mounting base, with one end connected to the pulley arm and the other end attached to the mounting base. The spring provides torsion to the pulley arm to maintain tension on the tension element, and is also compressed between a mounting flange of the pulley arm and a support flange on the mounting base to transmit an axial force between the pulley arm and an outer hub that is fixed to the mounting base. A shaped bush which functions at least as a damping element, and can also function as a bearing, is located in the space between the outer hub and the pulley arm.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 28, 2010Publication date: January 20, 2011Applicant: SCHAEFFLER TECHNOLOGIES GMBH & CO. KGInventor: Ross Gresley
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Patent number: 7866292Abstract: Apparatus and methods for shifting the phase between a driver gear and a driven gear in communication by a timing belt are provided as well as methods for configuring the apparatus. The apparatus may continuously vary the phase relationship between the driver gear and the driven gear.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2008Date of Patent: January 11, 2011Inventors: Rikki Scott LaBere, Robert Allen Weaver
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Patent number: 7823688Abstract: The invention relates to an electric power steering for a motor vehicle, that may include a gear rack (11) that is positioned axially displaceable inside a steering housing (1) and can be driven by an electric servomotor (16), arranged inside a motor housing (7), with the aid of a belt (14) and a gear (12) for assisting with the steering. A simple and reliable belt tensioning is possible by providing an insertion wedge (21) between the motor housing (7) and the steering housing (1), which pushes the motor housing (7) away from the steering housing (1) for the purpose of tensioning of the belt (14).Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 2008Date of Patent: November 2, 2010Assignee: ThyssenKrupp Presta SteerTec GmbHInventors: Matthias Spengler, Jens Keppler, Jens Stolzenburg
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Patent number: 7823687Abstract: The invention relates to an electric power steering for a motor vehicle that may include a gear rack (11) that is positioned axially displaceable inside a steering housing (I) and is driven by an electric servomotor (16), arranged inside a motor housing (7), with the aid of a belt (14) that runs inside a surrounding housing part (6) and a gear (12) for assisting the steering, wherein the belt (14) is configured ferromagnetically and at least one magnet (20) is arranged inside the housing part (6), beside the belt (14) and at a distance to the belt (14).Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 2008Date of Patent: November 2, 2010Assignee: ThyssenKrupp Presta SteerTec GmbHInventors: Matthias Spengler, Jens Keppler, Jens Stolzenburg
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Patent number: 7803078Abstract: A tensioner comprising a base, a pivot arm pivotally engaged with the base, a torsion spring engaged between the base and the pivot arm for biasing the pivot arm, a first damping member and a second damping member disposed between the pivot arm and the base, the first damping member wedgingly engagable between the pivot arm and the second damping member, and the second damping member frictionally engaged between the first damping member and the base.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2008Date of Patent: September 28, 2010Assignee: The Gates CorporationInventors: Alben D'Silva, John Harvey, Oliver Stegelmann
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Patent number: 7771299Abstract: A V-belt continuously variable transmission (CVT) for a straddle-type vehicle includes a measurement plate for a rotational speed sensor for detecting a rotational speed of a primary sheave shaft to control a speed change ratio. The measurement plate is disposed on an opposite end of the primary sheave shaft, to one end of which a driving force of an engine is input, with respect to a primary sheave.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 2006Date of Patent: August 10, 2010Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Shigehiro Mochizuki, Kazuhiko Izumi
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Publication number: 20100113200Abstract: A bicycle chain tensioner is provided with a bracket, a tensioner arm, a securing position adjustment mechanism and a chain engaging member. The bracket has a bicycle axle mounting portion and an arm attachment portion. The tensioner arm is adjustably secured to the arm attachment portion of the bracket. The securing position adjustment mechanism selectively fixes the tensioner arm with respect to the bracket in one of a plurality of the securing positions. The chain engaging member is attached to the tensioner arm.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 31, 2008Publication date: May 6, 2010Applicant: Shimano Inc.Inventor: Takashi YAMAMOTO
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Publication number: 20100105507Abstract: A drive arrangement (10) has first and second wheels (12, 14) and an endless loop member (16). The path of the member (16) is defined in part by a third wheel (18), between the wheels (12, 14). The wheel (18) is movably mounted so that the length can be changed for the path of the member (16) as it passes around the wheel (18), between the wheels (12, -14). Accordingly, the member (16) can be tightened or slackened around the wheels (12, 14), so that the wheels (12, 14) can be coupled to convey drive from one to the other, through the member (16), or disengaged, so that drive is not conveyed.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 28, 2008Publication date: April 29, 2010Inventor: Bruce Stanley Gunton
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Publication number: 20100081529Abstract: A tensioning device for a traction mechanism drive for a belt drive that is incorporated in an internal combustion engine, in order to drive components of the engine or installed accessories. The tensioning device has a construction that is advantageous under production and construction viewpoints, by a high degree of robustness, and also by an advantageous mechanical operating behavior. The tensioning device includes a base part, a swivel arm, a torsion spring with a first winding end section that is allocated to the swivel arm and a second winding section that is allocated to the base part for applying a pivoting moment acting between the base part and the swivel arm and forcing the swivel arm in a tensioning direction, and a damping device for generating a damping force that counteracts a pivoting of the swivel arm directed against the tensioning direction.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 1, 2009Publication date: April 1, 2010Applicant: SCHAEFFLER KGInventors: Thorsten Liebel, Fred G. Seebeck, Scott Thompson
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Patent number: 7686720Abstract: A portable power take-off unit for mounting to and dismounting from the rear of a vehicle, such as a pickup truck, providing mechanical operational power to construction and farm implements and machinery includes an engine for driving a belt and pulley assembly that drives a chain and sprocket assembly that, in turn, drives a power take-off shaft at selectable high or low speeds. An elongated drive shaft from the machinery is connected to the power take-off shaft for connection to the implement or machinery so that power can be provided thereto. The power take-off unit includes a hydraulic system, comprising a pump, reservoir, couplers, and hoses, for controlling the operation of the machinery, and a manually operable engagement lever for engaging and disengaging the belt and pulley system thereby controlling the engagement and disengagement of the power take-off shaft.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 2005Date of Patent: March 30, 2010Inventor: Roger Nikolai
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Patent number: 7678000Abstract: A tensioning arrangement to an endless linkage of a drive train is provided. The tensioning arrangement includes a tension arm and a spool mounted at the tension arm. The spool includes a rib generally centrally located between opposing first and second endwalls of the spool. The rib includes a greater outer diameter relative to an outer diameter of adjacent cylindrical portions abutting the rib. Both opposing first and second endwalls of the spool are of greater outer diameter so as to steer the endless linkage therebetween in general alignment with the rib. A spring includes a hook free end engaged at the tension arm, and a linear shaped free end engaged at the frame so as to bias the spool against the endless linkage.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2006Date of Patent: March 16, 2010Assignee: CNH America, LLC.Inventors: Travis L. Harnetiaux, Chad M. Johnson
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Patent number: 7648436Abstract: A technique for providing a variable-ratio coupling between output shaft and input motor involves driving an output shaft with drivers that are out of phase with each other. Advantageously, the technique provides a gear reduction via a simple, high-efficiency mechanism; continuous output torque is provided by alternating the load between two belts deflected by, by way of example but not limitation, cam devices.Type: GrantFiled: January 3, 2007Date of Patent: January 19, 2010Assignee: Tibion CorporationInventors: Robert W. Horst, Richard R. Marcus
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Publication number: 20090264233Abstract: The invention relates to an assembly drive or traction mechanism drive, which is designed as a belt drive, of an internal combustion engine, with one tensioning roller and/or one deflecting roller which encloses in each case one belt pulley. In the operating state of the belt pulley, a traction mechanism, which is designed as a V-ribbed belt, is guided on the running surface of the belt pulley. Here, the belt pulley of the deflecting roller has a smooth running surface against which the V-ribbed belt is supported with the profiled inner side.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 17, 2009Publication date: October 22, 2009Applicant: SCHAEFFLER KGInventor: Hermann STIEF
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Patent number: 7588507Abstract: An autotensioner comprises a torsion coil spring interposed between a base and a rocking arm, and a tubular bushing provided between an inside surface of the base and an outside surface of the rocking arm. The torsion coil spring pushes and biases the rocking arm toward the bushing, and brings the pushing direction substantially in coincidence with the axial load direction of the force, acting on a stepped bolt supporting the rocking arm, from a belt. When the belt tension becomes high, the arm axial center displaces slightly from the base axial center, an extremely large first damping force acts on the rocking arm. When the belt tension becomes low, the smaller second damping force acts on the rocking arm.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 2001Date of Patent: September 15, 2009Assignee: Unitta CompanyInventors: Kazumasa Ayukawa, Hiromi Matsuura
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Publication number: 20090197724Abstract: A fixed or adjustable chain guide includes a captured shoulder bolt fastener. An adjustable chain guide such as a chain tensioner arm assembly includes a tensioner arm with a pivot bore defined about a pivot axis. The pivot bore includes an inner end opening through a rear face of the tensioner arm and an outer end opening through a front face of the tensioner arm. The tensioner arm further includes at least one resilient fastener retaining tab located adjacent the pivot bore. The shoulder bolt extends through the pivot bore and is engaged by the at least one resilient fastener retaining tab, and the at least one fastener retaining tab inhibits separation of the fastener from the tensioner arm. The fastener preferably includes an annular groove or other recess to be engaged by the one or more fastener retaining tabs in order to permit the tensioner arm to rotate relative to the fastener.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 7, 2009Publication date: August 6, 2009Inventor: James D. Young
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Patent number: 7530911Abstract: A belt tensioner for a belt drive system as a belt tensioner, a first belt tensioner pulley, a crankshaft pulley, an accessory pulley, and a power transmission belt trained about the first belt tensioner, crankshaft, and accessory pulleys. The belt tensioner is of the type that includes an attachment point adapted to be affixed to a stationary point relative to a cylinder block of an engine, a track, and a first carrier mounted in sliding relation with the track with two degrees freedom of movement. The first belt tensioner pulley is rotatably mounted upon the first carrier for engaging the power transmission belt. A resilient member biases the first carrier in longitudinal relation to the track. The tensioner further includes a travel limiting mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2002Date of Patent: May 12, 2009Assignee: The Gates CorporationInventor: Alexander Serkh
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Publication number: 20090111630Abstract: The present invention provides, as one aspect, a belt tension adjusting device of a vehicle alternator. The device comprises an adjust bar that has an elongated hole having a rack configuration, one end of the adjust bar being fixed; a belt tension adjusting gear that has a through-hole at the center thereof, and has a gear-shape member corresponding to the rack configuration of the elongated hole at the outer circumference thereof; and a fixing bolt that fixes the adjust bar and the belt tension adjusting gear with an adjust stay of the vehicle alternator in a state where the belt tension adjusting gear is passed through the elongated hole; wherein tension of a belt stretched around a pulley of the vehicle alternator is adjusted by rotating the belt tension adjusting gear to move the adjust stay in a longitudinal direction of the elongated hole.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 29, 2008Publication date: April 30, 2009Applicant: DENSO CORPORATIONInventor: Harumi Kume
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Patent number: 7497794Abstract: A first belt tensioner includes an arm, spring case, coil spring, and arm plate. The arm is adapted to support an idler pulley and has a hook portion. The spring case is disposed in the arm and has a first spring seat. The spring is disposed in the spring case. The arm plate has a second spring seat. The spring is longitudinally compressed between the arm plate and the spring case. The spring is in torsion with the end portions of the spring seated against a corresponding spring seat and with the arm plate rotationally positioned under the hook portion. A method for assembling the first belt tensioner includes using the arm plate to longitudinally compress the spring and rotating the arm plate. A second belt tensioner includes an arm, spring case, coil spring, arm plate, and pivot bushing.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2005Date of Patent: March 3, 2009Assignee: Dayco Products, LLCInventors: Anthony E. Lannutti, Steve E. Scott, Robert C. Joslyn, Robert J. Crist, Terrence R. Quick, Douglas G. Gerring, Randall R. Diefenderfer, Stephen G. Webb
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Patent number: 7479078Abstract: A belt tensioner system includes a belt tensioner and a bumper idler pulley. The belt tensioner includes an arm which is adapted to be rotatably-biased and includes a tensioner idler pulley which is supported by the arm and which travels in an arcuate path when the arm rotates. The bumper idler pulley is positioned at least partially in the arcuate path to stop the travel of the tensioner idler pulley when the arm rotates to a predetermined rotational position. In one application, the belt tensioner system is for an automotive vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2004Date of Patent: January 20, 2009Assignee: Dayco Products, LLCInventor: Robert C. Joslyn
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Publication number: 20090005202Abstract: A belt tensioner includes an arm, a spring case, and a helical spring having inwardly projecting first and second end portions. Another belt tensioner includes a spring, an arm, a spring case, and a pivot bushing surrounding the spring. An additional belt tensioner includes an idler pulley having a bearing with a mounting hole and includes an arm having a post. The post is positioned in the mounting hole, and an annular rim of the post is deformed radially outward and over the bearing. A method for manufacturing an arm and a spring case of a belt-tensioner includes obtaining a belt-tensioner-arm casting mold including a first section and a second section and obtaining a belt-tensioner-spring-case casting mold including a first segment and a second segment.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 11, 2008Publication date: January 1, 2009Inventors: Robert J. Crist, Kevin G. Dutil, Robert C. Joslyn, Anthony E. Lannutti, Earl E. McShane, Steve E. Scott, Stephen G. Webb
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Publication number: 20080300077Abstract: A tensioning device for a traction element, such as a belt, band or chain, is provided having a tensioning arm (1) arranged on a machine part on which an idler pulley or deflection pulley for the traction element is rotatably mounted via a roller bearing (2), and includes a protective cap (15) which is in a frictionally locking or positively locking manner on the idler pulley and covers the bearing region of the idler pulley. The idler pulley is a sheet-metal sheave (16) and includes, for securing the protective cap (15), a snap-in groove (17) which is formed in an end region of the sheet-metal sheave (16) which has an outwardly conical shape, with the end region having a thickness (A) which is less than a thickness (E) of the sheet metal of the sheet-metal sheave (16).Type: ApplicationFiled: November 28, 2006Publication date: December 4, 2008Applicant: SCHAEFFLER KGInventors: Benoit Kapfer, Jacky Herrmann, Constant Einsetler
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Publication number: 20080287234Abstract: A belt drive (1) including a belt drive element (4) such as a belt or a chain and a plurality of wheels (1, 6, 7, 8) seated on shafts and integrated into the drive, around which the belt drive element is wound. Parasitic oscillations are introduced into the belt drive (1) by at least one shaft. For the purpose of generating a counter-oscillation, at least one wheel (3) has a non-circular shape. The non-circular wheel (3) is configured, in terms of its shape, in such a manner that it is adapted to generate a counter-oscillation which compensates at least two different main oscillation orders of the parasitic oscillation.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 7, 2006Publication date: November 20, 2008Applicant: SCHAEFFLER KGInventors: Roman Kern, Rainer Pflug
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Patent number: 7448974Abstract: A belt tensioner includes an arm, a spring case, and a helical spring having inwardly projecting first and second end portions. Another belt tensioner includes a spring, an arm, a spring case, and a pivot bushing surrounding the spring. An additional belt tensioner includes an idler pulley having a bearing with a mounting hole and includes an arm having a post. The post is positioned in the mounting hole, and an annular rim of the post is deformed radially outward and over the bearing. A method for manufacturing an arm and a spring case of a belt-tensioner includes obtaining a belt-tensioner-arm casting mold including a first section and a second section and obtaining a belt-tensioner-spring-case casting mold including a first segment and a second segment.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2004Date of Patent: November 11, 2008Assignee: Dayco Products, LLCInventors: Robert J. Crist, Kevin G. Dutil, Robert C. Joslyn, Anthony E. Lannutti, Earl E. McShane, Steve E. Scott, Stephen G. Webb
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Publication number: 20080207367Abstract: A tensioning device for a belt drive is provided, with a lever arm, which is rotatably supported on a base plate with a damping mechanism and on which a pulley and a spring element can be or are mounted. An arrangement is provided to prevent automatic loosening of the screw connection between the lever arm (3, 15) and the bearing.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 6, 2007Publication date: August 28, 2008Applicant: SCHAEFFLER KGInventors: Michael Bogner, Matthias Schmidl
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Publication number: 20080058140Abstract: A new asymmetrically damped tensioner is provided utilizing a roller clutch engaged with a tensioner arm through a frictional contact. During normal operation, the roller clutch enables the tensioner arm to pivot in a first direction to take up belt slack with negligible frictional damping applied to the motion of the tensioner arm. When the tensioner arm pivots in a second direction, away from the belt, however, in a condition commonly known as wind-up, the roller clutch engages and creates a frictional linkage between the tensioner arm and a fixed surface. This frictional linkage provides asymmetric frictional damping to the tensioner to limit movement in the second direction and combat wind-up.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 31, 2006Publication date: March 6, 2008Inventor: Douglas G. Gerring
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Publication number: 20080058142Abstract: A new tensioner is disclosed that achieves asymmetric damping in part by using a moveable ramp plate. The moveable ramp plate is in frictional contact with the arm provides asymmetric frictional damping for the tensioner arm when the arm experiences wind-up and begins to move away from the belt. The ramp plate is rotatably associated with the movement of the tensioner arm through a spring. The tensioner arm may pivot in two directions. As the tensioner arm pivots in a direction toward the belt the ramp plate is urged such that friction between the ramp plate and tensioner are minimized. When the tensioner arm pivots in the opposite direction, as potentially typified by wind-up, the ramp plate is urged such that friction between the ramp plate and tensioner is increased thereby minimizing wind-up of the tensioner arm.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 31, 2006Publication date: March 6, 2008Inventor: Robert C. Joslyn
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Publication number: 20080020878Abstract: Device and methods for arresting the upward movement of a continuous loop chain used to power a motorcycle. A roller wheel is suspended in space directly over the drive chain by means of a bracket and associated assembly. The positioning of the roller is designed to prevent the drive chain from impacting and damaging other components of the motorcycle when the rear suspension is compressed fully. The apparatus is designed to fit existing fastener locations on the motorcycle so that installation requires no modification other than the replacement of the original fasteners supplied by the manufacturer.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 13, 2007Publication date: January 24, 2008Inventor: Elden R. Carl
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Publication number: 20070293360Abstract: A tensioning arrangement to an endless linkage of a drive train is provided. The tensioning arrangement includes a tension arm and a spool mounted at the tension arm. The spool includes a rib generally centrally located between opposing first and second endwalls of the spool. The rib includes a greater outer diameter relative to an outer diameter of adjacent cylindrical portions abutting the rib. Both opposing first and second endwalls of the spool are of greater outer diameter so as to steer the endless linkage therebetween in general alignment with the rib. A spring includes a hook free end engaged at the tension arm, and a linear shaped free end engaged at the frame so as to bias the spool against the endless linkage.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 16, 2006Publication date: December 20, 2007Inventors: Travis L. Harnetiaux, Chad M. Johnson
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Publication number: 20070281813Abstract: A tensioning and vibration-damping device for a belt drive is provided, including means (1) for conveying rotary motion in the form of an endless chain or an endless belt and with a tension-roller carrier (2) that can pivot on a support component (3) with tension roller (5), wherein for ensuring a constant tension of the means for conveying rotary motion, the tension roller (5) can be brought into active connection with the means (1) for conveying rotary motion and the tension-roller carrier (2) together with the tension roller (5) can be loaded via a piezoelectric structure (6) with a determined pre-tensioning force against the means (1) for conveying rotary motion.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 27, 2007Publication date: December 6, 2007Applicant: SCHAEFFLER KGInventor: Sergej Schwarz
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Publication number: 20070249441Abstract: A powering system for a paper shredder carried by a vehicle having a two speed rear differential provides a power takeoff driven by a drive pulley irrotatably carried on a medial drive line shaft inserted between the vehicle forward and rearward drive line shafts. The range selector of the differential is modified to have a null position between speed ranges whereat rotational motion of drive line is not communicated through the rear differential to vehicle axles and wheels. An air bag carried powered by the vehicle pneumatic system selectively tensions and slackens drive belt tension to engage and disengage the power takeoff. Auxiliary apparatus to load unshredded paper into a storage area, feed the unshredded paper to the shredder and unload shredded paper from the vehicle are electrically powered by vehicle rechargeable batteries through switching means to regulate motor starting, stopping and reversing and to regulate shredder speed.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 10, 2007Publication date: October 25, 2007Inventor: Max R. Rajewski
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Patent number: 7273432Abstract: A belt tensioner with a retainer can be brought into contact with a belt via a belt support for applying a tensile force. The retainer is joined at a distance from the belt support to a radial plain bearing and it can be swivelled about the axis of rotation of the radial plain bearing, whereby the tensioning and swivel movements of the belt support occur under the action of a coil spring. For a belt tensioner of this type, which with a compact construction runs essentially wear-free, it is suggested that the retainer is subject to the action of a spring, which exerts a force (F3) essentially parallel to the axis of rotation on the retainer, the said force (F3) counteracting the force (F1) exerted by the belt on the retainer.Type: GrantFiled: January 6, 2004Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Assignee: Litens Automotive GmbHInventors: Horst Schonmeier, Michael Fischer
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Patent number: 7267626Abstract: The boss portion of an arm is oscillatably supported with respect to a support member. A tension pulley is rotatably engaged with a tip portion of the arm. A guide plate is fixed to the axial tip portion of the support member to face the boss portion. A friction plate is sandwiched between the boss portion and the guide plate to apply an oscillational resistance to the boss portion by a spring. A vibration attenuating member is provided in the guide plate so as to control the vibration of the guide plate caused by a stick-slip phenomenon in contacting portions between the friction plate, boss portion and guide plate.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 2002Date of Patent: September 11, 2007Assignee: Koyo Seiko Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kanji Kawasaki, Takashi Sumida
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Publication number: 20070197326Abstract: A roller assembly (30) for a belt drive system (1) of an agricultural machine, the roller assembly (30) having a shaft (50), a roller (20, 22) rotatably mounted on said shaft (50), and adjustment means for adjusting the position of the shaft (50). The adjustment means comprise means (62, 64) for angular adjustment of the position of the shaft (50) in two distinct directions (X, Y).Type: ApplicationFiled: January 25, 2007Publication date: August 23, 2007Inventor: Andre S.N.C. Ducoulombier
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Patent number: 7229374Abstract: A belt tensioner for a power transmission belt is provided that utilizes asymmetric motion control and is operable in a first condition and a second condition. The belt tensioner has an arm with a belt engaging section and a drum section, a support member for securing the tensioner relative to the belt, and a spring that urges the arm to pivot about the support member in a first direction and urges the belt engaging section against the belt with a force to tension the belt. The tensioner also has a stator coupled to the support member to form arcuate spaces circumferentially spaced around the stator between the stator and the drum section and arcuate shaped wedges in the arcuate spaces. The tensioner further has a Belleville spring coupled to the arm for pivoting therewith and a friction device in sliding contact with the wedges and Belleville spring.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 2004Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: Dayco Products, LLCInventors: Richard J. Meckstroth, William K. Bowman, Steven J. Eck, Kevin G. Dutil, Earl E. McShane
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Patent number: 7226377Abstract: A tensioner for a traction member, in particular a belt of a traction drive for an internal combustion engine, includes a base constructed for rotation about a rotation axis and having a pivot arm. The pivot arm has a free end for connection of a rotatable tension roller which bears against a traction member. A spring member urges the pivot arm to seek a forced engagement of the tension roller upon the traction member. Disposed between the base and the pivot arm is a damping element for damping an adjusting movement of the pivot arm. A pivot bearing supporting one portion of the base on a machine part for rotation about the rotation axis, whereby the rotation of the base in relation to the machine part is realized by an actuator to thereby adjust a biasing force of the traction member.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2004Date of Patent: June 5, 2007Assignee: INA-Schaeffler KGInventors: Manfred Kraus, Michael Bogner
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Patent number: 7163478Abstract: A tensioner for generating tension in a power-transmitting belt is provided. The tensioner includes a base, which may be secured to an engine, and an arm that is movably attached to the base. A pulley is rotatably attached to the arm for engaging the belt. A spring is operatively connected to the arm and the base for urging the arm to move relative to the base in a first direction. When the arm is moved in the first direction, the pulley is moved into engagement with the belt with a force to tension the belt. The tensioner further includes a stop that is adjustably positioned on the base to limit the movement of the arm in a second direction. The position of the stop on the base may be automatically adjusted by the spring during installation of the tensioner.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2003Date of Patent: January 16, 2007Assignee: Dayco Products, LLCInventors: Larry R. Oliver, Richard J. Meckstroth, Joseph W. Zamm
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Patent number: 7155144Abstract: An apparatus for providing tension to a photoreceptor belt mounted for rotation about a plurality of fixed rollers mounted to a frame of an imaging device comprises a tensioning roller having a longitudinal axis and a convex contact surface for forcing a wrap angle with an inner surface of the photoreceptor belt, a moment arm mounted at a first end to the frame for pivotal movement relative to the frame about a pivot axis fixed relative to the frame and mounted at a second end to the tensioning roller; and a force exerting mechanism mounted to the frame and coupled through the moment arm to the tensioning roller to provide a force perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the tensioning roller, the force exerting mechanism being configured to increase the force exerted thereby as the length of the photoreceptor belt increases.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2004Date of Patent: December 26, 2006Assignee: Xerox CorporationInventors: Mark A. Atwood, Robert Hildebrand
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Patent number: 7115056Abstract: A drive belt tensioning method and assembly using a dual spring tensioner. A pulley from a drive belt/pulley system is mounted onto a pivot arm having a pivot point. A tensioner spring mounts between the machine frame and the pivot arm, such that is causes rotation of the pivot arm about the pivot point in the opposite direction that the belt/pulley system causes rotation about the pivot point. A stop is used to keep the pivot arm in the position of tensioner spring/belt/pulley system equilibrium. This stop is mounted to the machine frame after the pivot arm equilibrium is reached. A retainer spring mounts between the machine frame and the pivot arm such that when in tension it causes a rotational force about the pivot point in the same direction that the tensioner spring causes a rotational force about the pivot point.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 2001Date of Patent: October 3, 2006Assignee: Eastman Kodak CompanyInventors: Alan E. Rapkin, Richard G. Luther, Morris A. Karski, Steven P. Bailey
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Patent number: 7104909Abstract: A tensioning device for attraction mechanism including a receiving and mounting housing, a roller carrier pivotably connected to the mounting housing, a bearing which radially supports the roller carrier relative to the mounting housing, a spring between the roller carrier and the mounting housing for applying a tensioning force, and a damping device. The damping device includes a damping bush which, by friction, dampens any movement between the roller carrier and the mounting housing in such a way that damping is greater in the direction of an increasing tension force than in the direction of decreasing tension force. A flat band spring applies the friction force to the damping bush. The flat band spring is secured, at a first end, to the receiving and mounting housing in a rotationally fast way, and at a second end to the damping bush in a rotationally fast way.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2004Date of Patent: September 12, 2006Assignee: Muhr und Bender KGInventors: Jochen Asbeck, Thomas Berndt, Joachim Jud, Rudolf Bonse