Tensioner with multiple spring rates
US9599199B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 25, 2013 |
| Grant date | Mar 21, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 25, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16H2007/0893
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
In a first aspect, a tensioner is provided which includes: an arm, including a pivot mount; a pulley rotatably mounted to the arm; and a strut pivotally connected to the arm. The strut includes: a base, having a pivot mount; a first body moveable relative to the base; a first resilient element connected between the base and the first body, the first resilient element having a first stiffness coefficient; a second body moveable relative to the first body, the second body having a pivot mount; a second resilient element connected between the first body and the second body, the second resilient element having a second stiffness coefficient that is lower than the first stiffness coefficient; and an actuator, connected to the base and first body, for selectively moving the first body towards the base and compressing the first resilient element.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.