Flexible idler
US6540629B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 28, 2001 |
| Grant date | Apr 1, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 28, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16H55/48
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An idler having a flexible member. The flexible member comprises a rubber or elastomeric material. The flexible member also defines a gas chamber. The spring rate of the flexible member is a function of the flexible material and the size of and pressure in the gas chamber. A belt or chain bearing surface of the flexible member bears upon a belt or chain trained between two pulleys. The flexible member is compressible in response to a preload caused as the idler is pressed against the chain or belt. The flexible member damps vibrations in the belt or chain during operation. This results in quieter operation of the idler/pulley system as well as increases the operating life of the belt.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.