Plate-link chain

US6676552B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• LuK Lamellen und Kupplungsbau Beteiligungs KG · DE

Inventors

• Klaus Scheufele · Aalen, DE
• Werner Gruca · Rheinau, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Nov 30, 2001
• Grant date: Jan 13, 2004
• Expiry date: Nov 30, 2021

Classification

• Technology area (CPC F): Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
• CPC primary: F16G5/18
• WIPO field: Machine tools
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A drive chain suitable for use in a continuously variable transmission of a motor vehicle. The transmission has two pairs of spaced drive members about which the chain passes to transfer torque from one drive member to the other. The chain includes a plurality of link elements that include spaced, side-by-side plate links. The plate links include openings in which pairs of parallel rocker members are disposed for relative rocking movement of at least one rocker member about its longitudinal axis. The rocker members extend outwardly beyond the plate links and are retained in position by retaining members that engage particular rocker members. A method for stretching the chain is also disclosed in which areas of some of the plate links are plastically deformed before the chain is put to use.