Belt tensioner and method for assembly

US7497794B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Dayco Products, LLC · US

Inventors

• Anthony E. Lannutti · Fayetteville, US
• Steve Scott · Seattle, US
• Robert C. Joslyn · Ozark, US
• Robert J. Crist · Bentonville, US
• Terrence R. Quick · Springfield, US
• Douglas G. Gerring · Denver, US
• Randall R. Diefenderfer · Springfield, US
• Stephen G. Webb · Springfield, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Dec 13, 2005
• Grant date: Mar 3, 2009
• Expiry date: Feb 13, 2027

Classification

• Technology area (CPC F): Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
• CPC primary: F16H2007/084
• WIPO field: Mechanical elements
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

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.