With Discrete Connector Extending Through Laterally Aligned Apertures In Adjacent Links Patents (Class 474/228)
  • Patent number: 11718368
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a bicycle chainring (1) for engagement with a drive chain provided with rollers, the bicycle chainring (1) comprising: a plurality of teeth (2, 3) extending radially from a periphery of the chainring (1), wherein the plurality of teeth (2, 3) comprises a plurality of narrow teeth (3) and a plurality of wide teeth (2), wherein each tooth (2, 3) comprises a front flank (5) and a rear flank (6) with respect to a drive direction (DD) and two opposing side surfaces (9), wherein at least one side surface (9) of each wide tooth (2) comprises a protrusion (7) extending therefrom in an axial direction of the chainring (1), wherein each protrusion (7) comprises a respective groove (8) arranged halfway between a top land (10) of the respective wide tooth (2) and a root circle (11) of the respective wide tooth (2), wherein the groove (8) extends throughout the protrusion (7) in a direction substantially parallel to the top land (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2023
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2023
    Inventor: Marcin Golec
  • Patent number: 11525496
    Abstract: A roller chain includes a plurality of inner and outer link units and a plurality of sealing rings. Each inner link unit includes two inner chain plates and two bushings. Each outer link unit interconnects an adjacent pair of the inner link units, and includes two outer chain plates and two connecting rods. Each of the outer chain plates has two inner surrounding surface portions each partially defining a retaining space. Each of the sealing rings is disposed in a respective one of the retaining spaces in the outer chain plates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2022
    Assignee: A MAN POWER TRANSMISSION CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Hou-Te Wu
  • Patent number: 11434571
    Abstract: A chain component of a chain for transmitting a force includes a steel-based substrate and a hard material layer on an external side of the steel-based substrate. The hard material layer contains metal nitrides and the metal carbide content in the hard material layer decreases toward the external side of the hard material layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2022
    Assignee: IWIS Motorsysteme GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Bernd Watzinger, Matija Burger
  • Patent number: 11434976
    Abstract: A chain component of a chain for power transmission coated with a layer of hard material includes a substrate based on steel and a layer of hard material on an outer surface of the substrate based on steel, with the layer of hard material containing metal nitrides and the C mass concentration in the layer of hard material decreasing in the direction toward the outer surface of the layer of hard material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2022
    Assignee: IWIS Motorensysteme GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Bernd Watzinger, Matija Burger
  • Patent number: 10982734
    Abstract: A roller-type chain for a bicycle is configured with asymmetrical chain link plates, the chain link plates applicable for use with a chain with reduced chain width as in use on chain drives with a high number of gear ratios. The chain link plates are configured at the inner side of the chain loop for engagement on the teeth of the rear sprocket and of the front chain wheel. The chain link plates are further configured at the outer side of the chain loop for interaction with the chain-guiding roller on the rear gearshift mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2021
    Assignee: SRAM DEUTSCHLAND GMBH
    Inventors: Bruno Ribeiro, Pedro Santos, Diogo Silva, Matthias Reinbold, Henrik Braedt, John Collen
  • Patent number: 10794452
    Abstract: A bicycle chain comprises an inner link plate. The inner link plate comprises a first inner-link end portion, a second inner-link end portion, an inner-link intermediate portion, a first chromized layer, and a second chromized layer. The first inner-link end portion includes a first inner-link opening and a first axially extending surface. The second inner-link end portion includes a second inner-link opening and a second axially extending surface. The first chromized layer has a first maximum axially chromized-treatment length defined in the first axially extending surface in an axial direction. The second chromized layer has a second maximum axially chromized-treatment length defined in the second axially extending surface in the axial direction. Each of the first maximum axially chromized-treatment length and the second maximum axially chromized-treatment length is equal to or larger than 1.1 mm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2020
    Assignee: SHIMANO INC.
    Inventor: Tsuyoshi Fukumori
  • Patent number: 10473187
    Abstract: A chain assembly includes interconnected chain units each having two rollers, two bushings disposed through the rollers, two inner plates rotationally disposed on the bushings, and two pins penetrating the bushings and the inner plates. Two outer plates are rotationally fixed to respective pins between adjacent inner plates. Each inner plate has two inner pin holes, two rims projecting from one surface of the inner plate, and a contact area formed around the rims. Each outer plate has two outer pin holes, two accommodation portions protruding from one surface of the outer plate to provide two rooms formed into opposing surface thereof, and a positioning area formed around the rooms for fitting snugly with adjacent contact areas when the respective rims are completely covered by the rooms. Therefore, the structure strength is increased, the transmission is stable and smooth, and no entry and accumulation of dust is incurred.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2019
    Assignee: Ming Chang Traffic Parts Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chien-Huao Huang
  • Patent number: 10436902
    Abstract: A range finding device includes: a light projecting unit having an irradiation domain extending in a horizontal direction, and configured to project intensity-modulated irradiation light; an image capturing unit configured to capture an image of an object irradiated with the irradiation light; a light projection controller configured to control an intensity of the irradiation light in accordance with a timing at which the image capturing unit captures the image; a synchronous detection unit configured to extract a synchronous detection region, in which brightness changes in synchronism with intensity modulation of the irradiation light, from the image captured by the image capturing unit; an edge detector configured to detect an edge of the synchronous detection region; and a range calculator configured to calculate a distance to the object on the basis of the edge of the synchronous detection region detected by the edge detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2019
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Takahiko Oki
  • Patent number: 10295019
    Abstract: An inner link plate for a bicycle chain is provided. The inner link plate may have a longitudinal centerline defining a longitudinal direction and comprising a first inner-link end portion including a first inner-link opening having a first inner-link center axis, a second inner-link end portion including a second inner-link opening having a second inner-link center axis parallel to the first inner-link center axis, and an inner-link intermediate portion interconnecting the first inner-link end portion and the second inner-link end portion. The first inner-link end portion may have an extended edge portion extending to be away from the second inner-link end portion in the longitudinal direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2019
    Assignee: Shimano Inc.
    Inventors: Tsuyoshi Fukumori, Yusuke Nishimoto, Atsuhiro Emura
  • Patent number: 9534662
    Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a chain that employs simple structures so as to establish contact surface pressures in accordance with various conditions of use, for the purpose of reducing frictional loss and preventing wear or damage to a chain guide member, as well as reducing order-related noise. The chain 100 is formed by inner links 101 and outer links 102 alternately and pivotably coupled together in a longitudinal direction of the chain. The plurality of inner plates 110 include an asymmetrical inner plate 110x having different edge shapes on upper and lower sides in a height direction of the chain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: TSUBAKIMOTO CHAIN CO.
    Inventor: Masanori Yokoyama
  • Publication number: 20150148164
    Abstract: To provide a metal chain having reduced weight and size but uncompromised strength, and manufacturable/assemblable with reduced work burden and cost. A metal chain is formed by coupling together a plurality of inner links and outer links alternately and pivotably in a longitudinal direction of the chain. Each of the outer link includes a pair of front and back pins and a pair of left and right outer plates. Each of the inner links includes a pair of front and back bushings and a pair of left and right inner plates. The pair of front and back bushings and the pair of left and right inner plates of the inner link are integrally formed as one component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2014
    Publication date: May 28, 2015
    Applicant: TSUBAKIMOTO CHAIN CO.
    Inventor: Takayuki Morimoto
  • Publication number: 20130203539
    Abstract: A link chain is provided, in particular a drive chain of a combustion engine, with chain links connected one to another by a chain articulation. The inner and outer chain links, which preferably are arranged in alternation, each have at least two link plates arranged in parallel with each other, each with two link openings. One link pin in each case extends through one of the link openings of the link plates to form a chain articulation. In this design, the link plates are made of a boron-manganese steel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2011
    Publication date: August 8, 2013
    Applicant: IWIS MOTORSYSTEME GMBH & CO., KG
    Inventors: Steffen Kirchner, Stefan Belmer
  • Patent number: 8499927
    Abstract: A pin assembly for a chain of a material moving system includes a pin having a first end and a second end, the first end having a threaded portion extending to a guide region having a reduced cross-section compared to the threaded portion, the threaded portion being at least partially modified during fabrication of the pin, the guide region extending to a transition region of increasing cross-section with respect to the guide region from the first end toward the second end, the transition region terminating at a shoulder. A fastener is configured to engage the threaded portion during construction of the chain. During construction of the chain, the pin and the fastener form a compression fit therebetween in response to a predetermined torque applied to the fastener, damaging at least a segment of the fastener, substantially limiting reuse of the fastener after the fastener has been disassembled from the pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: CNH America, LLC
    Inventors: Herbert M. Farley, Andrew V. Lauwers, Robert Stewart Boyd
  • Publication number: 20130109521
    Abstract: Three links (40) within one width-direction unit (54) are included in respectively different link units (46). The links in the first row and the sixth row from the right end and the left end of a chain are included in the same link unit (first link unit 46-1). The links in the second row and the fifth row are included in the same link unit (second link unit 46-2). The links in the ninth row and the tenth row are included in the same link unit other than the link unit in which the links in the second row and the fifth row are included (first link unit 46-1 or third link unit 46-3). With the above structure, the stress amplitude of the links forming a chain for a chain-type continuously variable transmission can be reduced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2012
    Publication date: May 2, 2013
    Applicant: JTEKT CORPORATION
    Inventor: JTEKT CORPORATION
  • Publication number: 20120088619
    Abstract: An outer plate for a chain is disclosed, the outer plate having two bores each adapted to receive an end of a pin. Each one of the bores has an inner wall with a layer of imbedded abrasive material. A chain assembled from the outer plates and the pins is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2011
    Publication date: April 12, 2012
    Applicant: SCHAEFFLER TECHNOLOGIES GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventors: Horst Adel, Troy Luck
  • Publication number: 20120004060
    Abstract: A sprocket chain formed by several pivotally interconnected chain links that have at least one central plate and at least two cover plates which are arranged on both sides of the central plate. The cover plates and the central plate are interconnected using at least two connecting members. The chain links also have inner plates which are arranged between the cover plates and the central plate and pivotally interconnect the chain links. At least two inner plates are provided between the central plate and the cover plates. The ratio between the total width of the stack of inner plates, i.e. the sum of the widths of the inner plates, and the width of the central plate is greater than or equal to 1.3.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2010
    Publication date: January 5, 2012
    Applicant: SCHAEFFLER TECHNOLOGIES GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventors: Klaus Hahn, Bolko Schuseil
  • Patent number: 8066604
    Abstract: The chain comprises a plurality of external links (2), each defined by a pair of parallel external plates (4, 5) and by two rotation pivots (6) interpositioned between the two external plates (4, 5). The chain also comprises a plurality of internal links (3), each defined by a pair of parallel internal plates (7, 8) and by two bushes (9) interpositioned between the plates and each internal link (3). Each of the rotation pivots (6) is inserted coaxially in a bush (9) and so defines an alternated succession of external links (2) and internal links (3) and defines with the bush (9) a spherical coupling surface. The chain also comprises anti-rotation elements (12) for reducing a possibility of rotation with respect to an alignment direction of each pair of adjacent links (2, 3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Assignee: F.S.A. S.R.L.
    Inventors: Ermanno Righi, Sandro Montanari
  • Patent number: 8016706
    Abstract: A plate-link chain composed of a plurality of plates that form plate sets, which are connected to an adjacent plate set with a hinge joint. At least some of the plates have a stopping means that limits bending of the plate-link chain in a direction opposite to the bend direction the chain undergoes when it passes over and around a pulley or a gear with which the chain comes into contacting engagement when the pulley or gear rotates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: LuK Lamellen und Kupplungsbau Beteiligungs KG
    Inventors: Marcus Junig, Anton Simonov, Olga Ispolatova, Michael Pichura, Martin Vornehm, Aurel Vietoris
  • Patent number: 7914410
    Abstract: A bicycle chain connecting link basically has a first link plate, a second link plate, a first link pin and a second link pin. The first link plate has a longitudinal slot. The second link plate has a pair of pin attachment openings. The first and second link pins each have a first pin end retained to the first link plate and a second pin end releasably coupled in the pin attachment openings of the second link plate to be separated from the second link plate and reattached to the second link plate. At least one of the first pin ends of the first and second link pins is slidable within the longitudinal slot of the first link plate in a longitudinal direction of the longitudinal slot of the first link plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Shimano Inc.
    Inventors: Toshinari Oishi, Kenji Kamada
  • Publication number: 20110028256
    Abstract: A chain such as a roller bush chain comprising a plurality of interconnected chain link members (2,3) is provided with a wiper element (9) that extends at the interface between overlapping portions of the link members. The wiper may be a formation defined on one of the link members or a bush (8) of the chain or may be a separate component between the link members. The wiper has a wiping edge that in use moves relative to a surface of at least one of the members and serves to wipe that surface clean of deposits or debris so as to allow lubricant to penetrate to the bearing between the pin and link members or bush and to reduce the risk of wear.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2009
    Publication date: February 3, 2011
    Applicant: RENOLD PLC
    Inventors: Michael Godfrey, Torquil Edmund Meredith Pyper, Michael Charles Christmas, Christopher James Lodge
  • Publication number: 20100285912
    Abstract: An oil-free chain that includes excellent lubricating properties, and satisfactorily maintains the lubricating properties even in high temperature atmosphere and dust particle atmosphere so that a stable lubrication effect can be maintained for a long period of time. The chain is a bush chain having a pair of inner plates into which the opposite ends of a bush are fitted, and a pair of outer plates which mount the opposite ends of a pair of pins. The pins are rotatably fit-inserted into the bushes of adjoining outer link plates. The inner and outer plates are connected in alternation to form the roller chain in which a roller is rotatably mounted on the outer surface of each bush. A sliding member formed of a 100% graphite sheet is provided between the bush and the pin and/or between the bush and the roller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2010
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Inventor: Toshihiko Aoki
  • Patent number: 7749119
    Abstract: A device for inserting an articulation pin (28) to pivotally connect the outer plates (12) and the inner plates (14) of a chain, particularly a bicycle chain. The device comprises an articulation pin (28) and a guide element (30) which is to be separated from the pin (28) after the insertion of the pin (28) within aligned holes (16, 18) of the plates (12, 14). The pin (28) is provided at one end thereof with a snap engaging portion (38) shaped so as to expand the holes (16) of the outer plates (12) in a radial direction during the insertion of the pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: Campagnolo S.r.l.
    Inventor: Mario Meggiolan
  • Patent number: 7686722
    Abstract: A plate-link chain for a belt-driven conical-pulley transmission. The chain has a large number of link plates that are articulatingly connected with each other by rocker members, which link plates are positioned one behind the other and are offset from each other transversely relative to the longitudinal direction of the plate-link chain, and also partially overlap each other. The chain has a plurality of link plates of two different lengths in the longitudinal direction of the chain, with openings to receive the rocker members. The arrangement of the link plates in the longitudinal direction of the chain is such that a long link plate is followed by a short link plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: LuK Lamellen und Kupplungsbau Beteiligungs KG
    Inventors: Markus Baumann, Michael Pichura
  • Publication number: 20090258742
    Abstract: An articulating pin for the links of a bicycle chain, of the type capable to be inserted in aligned holes of an outer link and of the corresponding inner link of the chain, to hinge the links to one another, has a central portion and a distal portion. The distal end is elastically deformable for the insertion through the holes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2009
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Applicant: CAMPAGNOLO S.R.L.
    Inventors: Maurizio Valle, Leopoldo Lazzarin
  • Publication number: 20090131209
    Abstract: In a rocker joint silent chain, the link plates have two different engagement pitches, and the connecting pins are composed of combinations of rocker pins and joint pins, where each rocker pin has one of two thicknesses and each joint pin has one of two thicknesses, so that the rocker joint pins of the chain have three different thicknesses. The link plates and connecting pins are arranged randomly along the length of the chain.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2008
    Publication date: May 21, 2009
    Applicant: TSUBAKIMOTO CHAIN CO.
    Inventors: Takayuki Morimoto, Hitoshi Ohara, Minoru Komada, Kazufumi Kotani, Shuuji Hamaguchi
  • Publication number: 20090069136
    Abstract: A drive chain includes two end chain components and a connecting plate. Each of the end chain components has a pin hole and a connecting pin. The connecting pin includes a main segment inserted into the pin hole and having a diameter, an anchoring end segment axially spaced apart from the main segment and having a diameter, and a constricted neck extending between the main segment and the anchoring end segment. The connecting plate has two spaced anchoring holes each having a diameter that is originally smaller than the diameter of the main segment and larger than the diameter of the anchoring end segment. The main segment of the connecting pin is force-fitted in a corresponding one of the anchoring holes so that the end chain components are joined to each other. A tool device to assemble or disassemble the drive chain is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2008
    Publication date: March 12, 2009
    Applicant: AMC Chain Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Tzu-Feng Wang
  • Patent number: 7500928
    Abstract: A chain and a chain and sprocket assembly for a roller, bush, or inverted tooth chain is disclosed. The chain has at least two types of link plates having different profiles, with at least one type of link plate having a leading corner for interaction with a contact ring on the sprocket, thereby reducing noise by reducing chordal action and by breaking up the regular timing of roller-sprocket (or bushing-sprocket) and link plate-sprocket impact. A method of reducing noise in a chain and sprocket assembly is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2009
    Assignee: BorgWarner Inc.
    Inventors: John Hummel, Roger Butterfield
  • Publication number: 20080287237
    Abstract: In an oil-free roller chain, the inner faces of the outer link plates have recesses that receive the ends of bushings, and the inner faces of the inner link plates have recesses that receive the ends of rollers surrounding the bushings. Each such recess is formed by punching, so that the outer surface of each plate has a bulged portion opposite each recess. The diameters of the bulged portions are greater than the diameters of the corresponding recesses. The bushing can have an oil passage located midway between its ends and serving as an oil reservoir supplying oil to the gap between the bushing and the roller and between the bushing and a connecting pin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Applicant: TSUBAKIMOTO CHAIN CO.
    Inventors: Toshihiko Aoki, Hiroki Ishida, Takashi Nakagawa
  • Publication number: 20080280717
    Abstract: The invention relates to a chain link of a power transmission unit for guiding cables, tubes, or similar. Said chain link comprises two side plates (1, 2) which are interconnected by means of at least one transversal web (3, 4). Each side plate (1, 2) is provided with one respective zone that is used for hingedly connecting the same to another side plate (1, 2). The distances (a, b) between the swivel pins (7, 8) and the longitudinal edges of the sideplates (1, 2) are different.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2005
    Publication date: November 13, 2008
    Inventor: Herbert Wehler
  • Patent number: 7427251
    Abstract: A roller chain for bicycles having outer and inner chain links. The outer and inner chain links have outer and inner link plates, respectively. The chain links are joined by tubular pins. The chain links have holes for receiving the tubular pins. The holes have an outward-opening conical contour for receiving a deformed head of the pin. The roller chain is assembled into a working unit by using a closing link to join two inner chain links. The closing link can be assembled and dismantled without plastic deformation or press-fitting forces on the closing link. The configuration of the hole contour and deformed heads allows the outer link plates to enter into a connection with the pins such that a slight movement of the pin in its seat in the hole in the outer link plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2008
    Assignee: SRAM Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Markus Reiter, Pedro Santos
  • Publication number: 20080217141
    Abstract: A conveyor assembly is provided, which includes a link belt formed of a plurality of overlapping belt links. A plurality of engagement elements are attached to the link belt to form an upper surface. In one embodiment, the link belt includes a plurality of apertures and the engagement elements comprises connectors that cooperate with the apertures to connect the engagement elements to the link belt. The upper surface of the engagement elements may be configured in a variety of forms. In one embodiment, the engagement elements comprise a protuberance that projects upwardly to form a point of limited contact.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2008
    Publication date: September 11, 2008
    Inventors: Jeremy M. Bigler, Ryan Van Duyn, Francis B. Fatato
  • Patent number: 6969332
    Abstract: A silent chain comprises a plurality of link plates, each having a pair of tooth parts and pin holes, stacked in the thickness direction as well as in the length direction and linked together using linking pins. Guide links are provided on the outermost sides of the link plates and are press-fit to the ends of linking pins. The guide links and link plates are relatively positioned to reduce wear on a chain guide surface by causing either the guide links or the link plates to substantially contact the guide surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2005
    Assignee: Borg-Warner Automotive K.K.
    Inventors: Naoji Sakamoto, Hiroyuki Takeda, Akio Matsuda
  • Publication number: 20040058766
    Abstract: A chain link assembly including a first link pivotally joined to a second link by a pin. The first link has a pair of first sidebars joined by a first barrel. Each first sidebar includes first and second ends joined by an inner surface and an outer surface. The first ends of each sidebar define coaxial first apertures coaxial with the first barrel, and the second ends define coaxial second apertures. A second link has a pair of second sidebars joined by a second barrel. Each second sidebar includes first and second ends joined by an inner surface and an outer surface. The second sidebar first ends define coaxial first apertures coaxial with the second barrel and the second apertures of the first link, and the second ends of the second sidebars define coaxial second apertures. A pin extends through the first apertures and first barrel of the second link and the second apertures of the first link to pivotally join the first link to the second link.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2003
    Publication date: March 25, 2004
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Schumacher, Kevin S. Hansen
  • Publication number: 20030148841
    Abstract: A substantially cylindrical bushing for a roller chain formed from a substantially parallelogram blank wherein the lateral sides of the blank are obliquely related to the ends of the blank such that rolling of the blank to form the cylindrical bushing results in a helical bushing seam line. The helical bushing seam line provides improved joint wear and bushing endurance, reduced socket wear, smoother chain and socket engagement, reduced vibration and noise levels, and a reduced need for seam orientation during assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2002
    Publication date: August 7, 2003
    Inventor: Bruce E. Gelb
  • Publication number: 20030073532
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an articulated chain comprising chain links interconnected at chain hinges, wherein each chain hinge comprises a hinge pin and a hinge bearing surrounding said hinge pin, and wherein the hinge pins are provided with a borided layer on the outer circumferential surface thereof and the hinge bearings are produced from a sintered material, the layer bottom of the borided layer, which faces the base material, being provided with teeth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2002
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Applicant: Joh. Winklhofer & Sohne
    Inventor: Richard Koschig
  • Patent number: 6539700
    Abstract: In a chain belt (1) for a continuously variable cone-pulley transmission of a vehicle, lengthwise links (3a, 3b, 3c) are connected by transverse coupling members (2a, 2b) passing through openings (4) in the links. Retainer elements (7) at the ends of the coupling members serve to secure the links against falling off the coupling members or becoming misaligned. The retainer elements are attached to at least selected individual coupling members by resistance welding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2003
    Assignee: LuK Lamellen und Kupplungsbau Beteiligungs KG
    Inventor: André Linnenbrügger
  • Publication number: 20030022748
    Abstract: Device for closing a chain, particularly a bicycle chain, comprising a first and a second pair of end outer plates connected by at least one pair of inner plates, a pair of rivets so engaging a pair of end holes of the first and the second pair of outer plates and the corresponding holes of a pair of, inner plates arranged at the ends of the chain.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2002
    Publication date: January 30, 2003
    Applicant: Campagnolo Srl
    Inventor: Mario Meggiolan
  • Publication number: 20020165057
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a high strength roller chain adapted for both high cyclic loads as well as intermittent high shock loads. The roller chain of the present invention includes a pin link plate having a cross sectional area through a center line of a pin receiving aperture greater than a pin link plate in a standard ANSI of an equivalent size roller chain. Further, the cross sectional area of the roller link plate through center line of one of the bushing-receiving openings is greater than that of a roller link plate in a standard ANSI roller link plate in an equivalent size roller chain. Further, the pin itself has a greater cross sectional area than the pin of a standard ANSI equivalent size roller chain.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2001
    Publication date: November 7, 2002
    Inventors: Robert N. Barton, John A. Wright
  • Patent number: 6394923
    Abstract: A drive chain includes outer and inner chain plates, rollers, and pins. The outer and inner chain plates employ a closed-type pivot engagement therebetween so as to enhance protection against dust, to avoid undesired release of lubricant, and to avoid concentration of shearing forces on the pins in order to improve durability of the drive chain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Assignee: Ming Chang Traffic Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: E-Cheng Huang
  • Patent number: 6364799
    Abstract: A quick-connection link for a bicycle chain, comprises a pair of plates, a pair of tubular articulating pins secured to one of the aforementioned plates, and a pair of quick-coupling pegs that are received in tubular pins and are gripped inside them to prevent separation of the other plate from the tubular articulating pins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2002
    Assignee: Campagnolo SRL
    Inventor: Valentino Campagnolo
  • Patent number: 5989141
    Abstract: A silent chain can prevent the link plates from rupturing and stretching in the longitudinal direction to the chain. The silent chain is formed such that the thickness of both the outer link plates of the joint link row having fewer plates on the connecting pin is made larger than any of thicknesses of the guide plates and the thicknesses of the other link plates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Assignee: Tsubakimoto Chain Co.
    Inventors: Nobuto Kozakura, Tsutomu Haginoya, Masaaki Matsumoto
  • Patent number: 5989140
    Abstract: A both-side meshing type silent chain is provided which not only permits improvement in durability of a tensioner and a chain guide, but also permits a high-speed and smooth transfer of power. The both-side meshing type silent chain has a high durability and includes a plurality of articular train plates and a plurality of guide train plates. Each of the plurality of articular train plates and the plurality of guide train plates have main teeth for engagement with a sprocket disposed on an inner peripheral side of a chain. The plurality of articular train plates are alternately connected to the plurality of guide train plates with pins. Guide plates, which are guided by side faces of the teeth of the sprocket, are disposed on both outer sides of each of the plurality of guide train plates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Assignee: Tsubakimoto Chain Co.
    Inventors: Koichi Ichikawa, Nobuto Kozakura, Tsutomu Haginoya
  • Patent number: 5902203
    Abstract: A silent chain is provided in which a plurality of link plates of a certin configuration may have an identification indicator marked on a reference surface thereof at the time connecting pin inserting holes are punched into the link plates in order to ensure the link plates are properly directed in the same direction, are superposed on the connecting pins, and are constituted in a chain-like manner by the connecting pins so that meshing surfaces of the link plates mesh smoothly to prevent any meshing noise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 11, 1999
    Assignee: Tsubakimoto Chain Co.
    Inventors: Makoto Kanehira, Takero Nakagawa, Yutaka Uchiumi, Masahiro Sato, Nobuyuki Fujimoto, Hitoshi Ohara, Masao Maruyama
  • Patent number: 5797820
    Abstract: The present invention provides a slat band chain for both straight and curved lines and a sprocket made of synthetic resin which the chain can engage with every other tooth of the sprocket. At least three reinforcement ribs 24a-24c connecting the front curled portions 14 with the rear curled portions 16 are installed. The width B, and the length C, of the rear curled portions in the feeding direction are set to the intermediate value of those conventional slat band chains for straight and curved lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1998
    Assignee: Yamakyu Chain Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Shunichi Endo
  • Patent number: 5711733
    Abstract: It is envisaged in the case of a power transmission chain (1) for guiding cables, hoses and the like in a cavity surrounded by the chain links, with several chain straps (2, 3) which can be connected in detachable fashion by upper and lower cross-members, which are assembled to form two parallel strands, overlap each other and can be angled in relation to each other, and which interlock positively in the area of the mutual overlap, that each of the parallel chain strands includes inner straps (2) and outer straps (3). Each outer strap (3) overlaps two inner straps (2). The areas of the chain straps (2, 3) which are intended to overlap the adjacent chain straps (2, 3) are arranged in a common plane which roughly forms the mid-length plane of the chain straps (2, 3). (FIG.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 27, 1998
    Assignee: Igus Spritzgussteile Fur Die Industrie GmbH
    Inventor: Gunter Blase
  • Patent number: 5683319
    Abstract: A chain assembly has pins extending through the guide links with minimal projection beyond the outside edge of the guide links. The minimal pin projection provides a chain assembly of narrow construction. Modular chain systems are also provided that permit manufacturing savings in the construction of chain systems of standard widths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 4, 1997
    Assignee: Borg-Warner Automotive, Inc.
    Inventors: Philip J. Mott, David C. White
  • Patent number: 5551925
    Abstract: A chain assembly has pins extending through the guide links with minimal projection beyond the outside edge of the guide links. The minimal pin projection provides a chain assembly of narrow construction. Modular chain systems are also provided that permit manufacturing savings in the construction of chain systems of standard widths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 3, 1996
    Assignee: Borg-Warner Automotive, Inc.
    Inventors: Philip J. Mott, David C. White
  • Patent number: 5464374
    Abstract: A power transmission chain includes pins and inner link apertures of a size to allow pivotal movement of the inner links about the pins. The ends of the pins and the outer link apertures are shaped such that upper and lower portions of the pin ends bear against upper and lower edge portions of the apertures to prevent movement of the outer links relative to the pins. At least one side portion of each pin is spaced apart from an adjacent side edge portion of the associate aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 7, 1995
    Assignee: Borg-Warner Automotive, Inc.
    Inventor: Philip J. Mott
  • Patent number: 5288278
    Abstract: A bicycle chain having link plates connected to be oscillatable relative to one another within a predetermined range of flexion. To determine the range of flexion, outer link plates include engaged members, and inner link plates include engaging members for engaging the engaged members. A maximum range of flexion of the chain is determined by contact between the engaged members and engaging members. This maximum range of flexion is determined to enable the chain to be wound around the smallest pulley of a speed changer or derailleur.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 22, 1994
    Assignee: Shimano Inc.
    Inventor: Masashi Nagano
  • Patent number: 5140806
    Abstract: A roller chain for bicycles comprises a plurality of outer links each having a pair of outer plates each having two pin holes, two pins extending through the pin holes and connecting the outer plates of each of the outer links with one another, a plurality of inner links arranged alternately with the outer links and each having a pair of inner plates each provided with a bearing collar defining an inner hole and carrying a roller. The inner holes have a cross-section which is elongated in a longitudinal direction. At least one of the pin holes in the outer plates and the inner holes in the bearing collars are offset so that a roller pitch of the inner and outer links in a stretched state of the chain is adjusted substantially to the same value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1992
    Inventor: Bernhard Rohloff