Method and apparatus for tensioning ground engaging endless elastomeric belts
US4650259A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 12, 1985 |
| Grant date | Mar 17, 1987 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 12, 2005 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB62D55/30
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Method and apparatus for selectively tensioning an endless, inextensible elastomeric belt entrained about a cooperating drive structure and idler structure having respective axes of rotation. A roller frame joined to a vehicular main frame supports the idler structure and constrains movement thereof to a longitudinal recoil path. The drive and idler structures are biasingly separated by a compression spring which exerts biasing force thereon in opposite longitudinal directions through a drive strut and an idler strut, respectively. The idler strut is connected to the idler structure longitudinally in front of the idler's axis. The length of one of the struts is adjustable to provide the desired tension in the spring and, thus, the entraining belt. Increases in tension are preferably provided by displacing one component member of the one strut relative to a second component member thereof-one of such members being reciprocatably receivable in the other and provided with a seal therebetween such that the two members cooperatively define a pressurizable chamber. Pressurized fluid, when transmitted into the pressurizable chamber, provides relative longitudinal displacement of the two m…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.