Tensioning device and driven component thereof

Abstract

A tensioning device includes a housing, a drive member, an inner sleeve, and a driven member. The housing includes a first attachment feature. The driven member includes a second attachment feature. The inner sleeve is at least partially disposed in the housing and is rotatably coupled to the housing. The drive member is rotatably coupled to the housing and operably coupled to the inner sleeve such that rotation of the drive member facilitates rotation of the inner sleeve. The driven member is movable relative to the guide member along a centerline between a retracted position and an extended position.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 930,710, filed on November 5, 2019, entitled “Tensioning Device and Driven Component Thereof,” and the entire contents of that provisional patent application are hereby incorporated by reference herein. Technical Field

[0003] The apparatus and methods described below generally relate to a tensioning device that can be coupled to opposite ends of a strapping member. The tensioning device is operable to adjust the tension on the strapping member. Background Art

[0004] Conventional tensioning devices such as tensioning clamps and turnbuckles are generally too large and bulky for use in limited areas (such as when tying tree stands or securing loads to vehicles). In addition, the tension applied by the tensioning device is difficult to control and often results in significant over- or under-tightening. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] Various embodiments will become better understood with reference to the following description, appended claims and accompanying drawings, in which:

[0006] Figure 1 is an isometric cross-sectional view depicting a tensioning device according to an embodiment;

[0007] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 an enlarged isometric view of a framed portion of a tensioning device;

[0008] Figure 3 is an isometric cross-sectional view depicting a tensioning device according to another embodiment;

[0009] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 an enlarged isometric view of a framed portion of a tensioning device;

[0010] Figure 5 It is a depiction Figure 3 An isometric cross-sectional view of a drive member of a tensioning device;

[0011] Figure 6 It is a depiction Figure 3 An isometric cross-sectional view of a housing of a housing assembly of a tensioning device;

[0012] Figure 7 is an isometric cross-sectional view depicting a tensioning device according to yet another embodiment;

[0013] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 an enlarged isometric view of a framed portion of a tensioning device;

[0014] Fig. 9 It is a depiction Figure 7 An enlarged cross-sectional plan view of the tensioning device;

[0015] Fig.10 is an isometric cross-sectional view depicting a tensioning device according to yet another embodiment;

[0016] Fig.11 yes Fig.10 an enlarged isometric view of a framed portion of a tensioning device;

[0017] Fig.12 It is a depiction Fig.10 An isometric cross-sectional view of a drive member of a tensioning device;

[0018] Fig.13 is an enlarged isometric cross-sectional view depicting a tensioning device according to yet another embodiment;

[0019] Fig.14 is an isometric cross-sectional view depicting a tensioning device according to yet another embodiment;

[0020] Fig.15 It is a depiction Fig.14 A cross-sectional plan view of the tensioning device;

[0021] Fig.16 is an isometric cross-sectional view depicting a tensioning device according to yet another embodiment;

[0022] Fig.17 It is a depiction Fig.16 An enlarged isometric view of the tensioning device;

[0023] Fig.18 is an isometric view depicting a tensioning device according to yet another embodiment;

[0024] Fig.19 It is a depiction Fig.18 An enlarged partially exploded isometric view of a tensioning device;

[0025] Fig. 20 is an isometric view depicting a tensioning device according to yet another embodiment;

[0026] Fig.21 is an isometric view depicting a tensioning device according to yet another embodiment;

[0027] Fig. 22 is an enlarged isometric view depicting a tensioning device according to yet another embodiment;

[0028] Fig.23 It is a depiction Fig. 22 An isometric view of a drive member of a tensioning device;

[0029] Fig.24 is an enlarged isometric view depicting a tensioning device according to yet another embodiment;

[0030] Fig.25 is an enlarged view depicting a tensioner according to yet another embodiment with a visual indicator showing an under-torque condition;

[0031] Fig.26 It is a depiction Fig.25 An enlarged view of the tensioner, but with visual indicators showing under-torque or over-torque conditions;

[0032] Fig. 27 is an enlarged isometric cross-sectional view depicting a tensioner according to yet another embodiment, wherein the clutch assembly is shown in an under-torque condition;

[0033] Fig.28 It is a depiction Fig. 27 An enlarged view of the tensioner of FIG. 1 , but the clutch assembly is shown in an under-torque or over-torque condition;

[0034] Fig.29 is an enlarged isometric cross-sectional view depicting a tensioner according to yet another embodiment, wherein the clutch assembly is shown in an under-torque condition;

[0035] Fig.30 It is a depiction Fig.29 An enlarged view of the tensioner of FIG. 1 , but the clutch assembly is shown in an under-torque or over-torque condition;

[0036] Fig.31 is an enlarged isometric cross-sectional view depicting a tensioner according to yet another embodiment, wherein the clutch assembly is shown in an under-torque condition;

[0037] Fig.32 It is a depiction Fig.31 An enlarged view of the tensioner of FIG. 1 , but the clutch assembly is shown in an under-torque or over-torque condition;

[0038] Fig.33 is an isometric cross-sectional view depicting a clutch assembly according to another embodiment;

[0039] Fig.34 is an isometric view depicting a clutch assembly according to yet another embodiment, wherein the clutch assembly is shown in an under-torque condition;

[0040] Fig.35 It is a depiction Fig.34 An isometric view of a clutch assembly, but the clutch assembly is shown in an under-torque or over-torque state;

[0041] Fig.36 is along Fig.34A cross-sectional view of the clutch assembly taken along line 36-36;

[0042] Fig.37 is an enlarged isometric cross-sectional view depicting a tensioning device having a cable according to yet another embodiment;

[0043] Fig.38 is an enlarged isometric cross-sectional view depicting a tensioning device according to yet another embodiment;

[0044] Fig.39 is an enlarged isometric view depicting a cable according to another embodiment;

[0045] Figures 40A-40H are isometric cross-sectional views of various alternative arrangements of housings of housing assemblies of tension members;

[0046] Fig.41 is an isometric view depicting a tensioning device according to yet another embodiment;

[0047] Fig.42 yes Fig.41 An exploded isometric view of the tensioner;

[0048] Fig.43 It is along Fig.41 A cross-sectional view of the tensioning device taken along line 43-43;

[0049] Fig.44 yes Fig.41 An enlarged view of the tension sensor and hook of the tensioning device;

[0050] Fig.45 yes Fig.44 Schematic diagram of the tension sensor;

[0051] Fig.46 is an isometric view depicting a tensioning device according to yet another embodiment;

[0052] Fig.47 yes Fig.46 An exploded isometric view of the tensioner;

[0053] Fig.48 It is along Fig.46 A cross-sectional view of the tensioning device taken along line 48-48;

[0054] Fig.49 is an isometric view depicting a tensioning device according to yet another embodiment;

[0055] Fig.50 yes Fig.49 An exploded isometric view of the tensioner;

[0056] Fig.51 It is along Fig.49A cross-sectional view of the tensioning device taken along line 51-51;

[0057] Fig.52 is an isometric view depicting a tensioning device according to yet another embodiment;

[0058] Fig.53 yes Fig.52 An exploded isometric view of the tensioner;

[0059] Fig.54 It is along Fig.52 A cross-sectional view of the tensioning device taken along line 54-54;

[0060] Fig.55 is an isometric view depicting a tensioning device according to yet another embodiment;

[0061] Fig.56 yes Fig.55 An exploded isometric view of the tensioner;

[0062] Fig.57 It is along Fig.54 A cross-sectional view of the tensioning device taken along line 56-56;

[0063] Fig.58 is an isometric view depicting a tensioning device according to yet another embodiment;

[0064] Fig.59 yes Fig.58 An exploded isometric view of the tensioner;

[0065] Fig.60 It is along Fig.58 A cross-sectional view of the tensioning device taken along line 60-60;

[0066] Fig.61 is an isometric view depicting a tensioning device according to yet another embodiment;

[0067] Fig.62 yes Fig.61 An exploded isometric view of the tensioner;

[0068] Fig.63 It is along Fig.61 A cross-sectional view of the tensioning device taken along line 63-63;

[0069] Fig.64 is an isometric view depicting a tensioning device according to yet another embodiment;

[0070] Fig.65 yes Fig.64 A partially exploded isometric view of a tensioning device;

[0071] Fig.66is a top view of a saddle member according to an embodiment;

[0072] Fig.67 is an isometric view depicting a tensioning device according to yet another embodiment;

[0073] Fig.68 yes Fig.67 An exploded isometric view of the tensioner;

[0074] Fig.69 yes Fig.68 An exploded isometric view of the tension sensor and rear interface portion of the tensioning device;

[0075] Fig.70 yes Fig.69 An exploded isometric view of a tension sensor; and

[0076] Fig.71 It is along Fig.67 A cross-sectional view of the tensioning device taken along line 71-71. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0077] The following combination Figure 1-71 The embodiments are described in detail with reference to the drawings and examples, wherein like numerals designate like or corresponding elements throughout the several views. Figure 1 and Figure 2 A tensioning device 10 is shown that can be attached to opposite ends of a tying member (e.g., a strap, rope, cable, chain) (not shown) to selectively apply tension thereto, as will be described in further detail below. The tensioning device 10 may include a housing assembly 12, a drive rod 14, a clutch assembly 16, a drive member 18, and a driven member 20. The housing assembly 12 may include a housing 22, a proximal cap 24, and a distal cap 26. The proximal cap 24 and the distal cap 26 may be secured to opposite ends of the housing 22 by threaded engagement or any of a variety of suitable alternative securing methods (e.g., welding, bonding, press fitting). The proximal cap 24 and the distal cap 26 may cooperate to define an interior 28. The housing 22 of the housing assembly 12 is shown as being generally tubular.

[0078] The drive rod 14 can be rotatably coupled to the housing assembly 12 and can include a threaded end 32 and a drive end 34. The drive rod 14 can be disposed in the interior 28 and can extend between the proximal cap 24 and the distal cap 26 such that the drive end 34 is located at the proximal cap 24 and the threaded end 32 is located at the distal cap 26. The clutch assembly 16 can be located at the proximal cap 24 and operably coupled to the drive end 34 of the drive rod 14. The drive member 18 can be operably coupled to the clutch assembly 16 and can extend from the proximal cap 24 and can be at least partially outside of the interior 28 such that the drive member 18 can be accessed along the exterior of the drive rod 14.

[0079] The drive member 18 can rotate, which can facilitate the rotation of the drive rod 14 through the clutch assembly 16. The clutch assembly 16 can be configured to selectively disengage the drive member 18 from the drive rod 14 when a certain torque is applied to the drive member 18. The drive member 18 can be shaped to be able to mechanically cooperate with a tool. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the drive member 18 may be hexagonal to allow for selective interaction with a wrench or socket that may be used to rotate the drive member 18. However, it should be understood that the drive member 18 may be configured to cooperate with any of a variety of suitable alternative tools, such as an Allen bit, a Torx bit, or pliers.

[0080] The driven member 20 may be disposed within the interior 28 and may be slidably coupled to the housing 22 of the housing assembly 12. Figure 2 As shown, the driven member 20 may include a central body 36 and a pair of tab members 38 extending from the central body 36. The housing 22 of the housing assembly 12 may be defined at a proximal cap 24 ( Figure 1 ) and a pair of elongated slots 40 extending between the proximal cap 24 and the distal cap 26. Each tab member 38 can extend into one of the elongated slots 40 so that the tab member 38 is nested in the elongated slot 40. The driven member 20 can be configured to slide along the interior 28 of the housing 22 between the proximal cap 24 and the distal cap 26. The tab member 38 can interact with the elongated slot 40 to prevent the driven member 20 from rotating during such sliding. The central body 36 is shown as being generally hexagonal. The inner surface 42 of the housing 22 can be similarly shaped (e.g., hexagonal) to allow the driven member 20 to slide within the interior 28 while also facilitating preventing the driven member 20 from rotating.

[0081] Still refer to Figure 2 , the driven member 20 can define a pair of channels 44. A cable member 46 can pass through the channels 44 and be secured to the driven member 20 with a nut 48. The cable member 46 can pass through the distal cap 26 so that it extends from the distal cap 26 and can be accessed from the exterior of the tensioning device 10. The cable members 46 are shown as being provided in an annular arrangement with a clamp member 50 that gathers the cable members 46 together. The clamp member 50 can be slid along the cable members 46 so that the overall size of the annular arrangement (e.g., attachment feature) can be varied. It should be understood that although a cable member is described, any of a variety of suitable alternative attachment features may be provided, such as a rope, hook, strap, or chain.

[0082] The threaded end 32 of the drive rod 14 can extend through the central body 36 of the driven member 20 and can be threadedly engaged therewith. Depending on the rotation direction of the drive rod 14, rotation of the drive rod 14 (e.g., by rotation of the drive member 18) can cause the driven member 20 to slide toward the proximal cap 24 or the distal cap 26. The sliding of the driven member 20 toward the proximal cap 24 can cause the cable member 46 to retract into the interior 28, thereby reducing the length of the outer portion of the cable member 46 extending from the distal cap 26. Conversely, the sliding of the driven member 20 toward the distal cap 26 can cause the cable member 46 to extend from the interior 28, thereby increasing the length of the outer portion of the cable member 46 extending from the distal cap 26. In one embodiment, the threaded end 32 of the drive rod 14 can be a right-hand thread, so that rotation of the drive rod 14 in a clockwise direction (when observing the tensioning device 10 at the proximal cap 24) facilitates the driven member 20 to slide toward the proximal cap 24, and rotation of the drive rod 14 in a counterclockwise direction facilitates the driven member 20 to slide toward the distal cap 26.

[0083] The use of the tensioning device 10 will now be discussed. The cable member 46 may be attached to one end of a strapping member (not shown) and a hook (e.g., Figures 41-43 2129) can be attached to the other end of the strapping member so that the tensioning device 10 is arranged in line with the strapping member (as opposed to a winding tensioning member like a ratchet strap). The drive member 18 can then be rotated, which can retract the cable member 46 into the interior 28 to draw the ends of the strapping member together, thereby increasing the tension on the strapping member. Once the tension on the strapping member reaches a specific tension, the clutch assembly 16 can disengage the drive member 18 from the drive rod 14 (e.g., clutch disengagement) to prevent further tension from being applied to the strapping member. It should be understood that the maximum tension allowed by the clutch assembly 16 can be a function of the design of the clutch assembly 16 and can be preset or variable (e.g., set by a user). It should also be understood that the tensioning device 10 can be considered to apply tension to the strapping strap linearly (e.g., along the same rotational axis of the drive member 18), rather than laterally (e.g., the ratchet strap applies tension in a direction perpendicular to the rotational axis of the drive member). An example of such a linear tensioner is described in US Pat. Nos. 9,073,187 and 9,108,309, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0084] It should be understood that the tensioner 10 may be equipped with any of a variety of sensors or monitoring devices to facilitate monitoring operating parameters of the tensioner, such as strain gauges, accelerometers, GPS devices, or encoders. These sensors or monitoring devices may communicate wirelessly (e.g., via Bluetooth) or through a wired connection with a remote computing device (e.g., a smartphone, personal computer, laptop, or tablet), such as provided as part of an Internet of Things (IoT) system.

[0085] Figure 3-6 An alternative embodiment of a tensioning device 110 is shown, which may be used with Figure 1 and 2 The tensioner 10 shown is similar or identical in many respects. For example, the tensioner 110 may include a housing 122 and a driven member 120 disposed in an interior 128 at least partially defined by the housing 122. However, the housing 122 may include a threaded inner surface 142 that may mate with a threaded outer surface 151 of the driven member 120. In one embodiment, the driven member 120 may be a two-piece arrangement, with one piece being threaded in the interior 128. Figure 5 As shown in Figure 3 , 4 6, the housing 122 may have a substantially square cross-sectional shape.

[0086] Figure 7-9 An alternative embodiment of a tensioning device 210 is shown, which may be used with Figure 1 and 2 The tensioning device 10 shown is similar or identical in many respects. For example, the tensioning device 210 can include a housing 222 and a driven member 220 disposed in an interior 228 at least partially defined by the housing 222. However, the housing 222 can include an inner surface 242 defining a helical groove 252 that can cooperate with the tab member 238 of the driven member 220. The driven member 220 can be configured to selectively rotate relative to the housing 222. When the driven member 220 rotates, the interaction between the tab member 238 and the helical groove 252 can cause the driven member 220 to move laterally in the interior 228 (e.g., between the proximal cap and the distal cap). The helical groove 252 can have a pitch that is greater than the pitch of the threads on the drive rod 214.

[0087] The driven member 220 can rotate in one of a progressive motion mode and a rapid motion mode in response to the rotation of the drive rod 214. When in the progressive motion mode, the drive rod 214 can rotate relative to the driven member 220, which can cause the driven member 220 to rotate relative to the housing 222 (at a slower rotation speed than the drive rod 214). When in the rapid motion mode, the drive rod 214 and the driven member 220 can rotate together, which can cause the driven member 220 to move laterally faster in the interior 228 than when the driven member 220 rotates in the progressive motion mode (for a particular rotation speed of the drive rod 214). In one embodiment, the operation of the drive rod 214 and the driven member 220 in the progressive motion mode or the rapid motion mode can depend on the rotation speed of the drive rod 214. For example, when the drive rod 214 rotates slowly, the drive rod 214 and the driven member 220 can operate in the progressive motion mode. However, when the drive rod 214 rotates faster, the drive rod 214 and the driven member 220 may operate in a fast motion mode.

[0088] Figure 10-12 Another alternative embodiment of a tensioning device 310 is shown, which can be used with Figure 1 and 2 The tensioner 10 shown is similar or identical in many respects to the tensioner 10 shown. For example, the tensioner 310 can include a housing 322 and a driven member 320 disposed in an interior 328 at least partially defined by the housing 322. The driven member 320 can include a central body 336. However, the central body 336 can be generally annular, and the inner surface 342 of the housing 322 can be similarly shaped. The housing 322 can have a substantially square cross-sectional shape. In one embodiment, the driven member 320 can be provided in a two-piece arrangement, with one piece being provided in the Fig.12 Shown in.

[0089] Fig.13 Another alternative embodiment of a tensioning device 410 is shown, which can be used with Figure 1 and 2 The tensioner 10 shown is similar or identical in many respects. For example, the tensioner 410 can include a housing 422 and a driven member 420 disposed in an interior 428 at least partially defined by the housing 422. The driven member 420 can include a central body 436. However, the central body 436 can lack a tab member (e.g., 38), and instead rely on the interaction between the substantially hexagonal shape of the central body 436 and a similarly shaped inner surface 442 to prevent the driven member 420 from rotating. The housing 422 can have a substantially hexagonal square cross-sectional shape.

[0090] Fig.14 and 15Another alternative embodiment of a tensioning device 510 is shown, which can be used with Figure 1 and 2 The tensioning device 10 shown is similar or identical in many aspects. For example, the tensioning device 510 can include a housing 522 and a driven member 520 disposed in an interior 528 at least partially defined by the housing 522. The driven member 520 can include a central body 536. However, the central body 536 can include a nose 554 that can be nested within a narrow region 556 of the interior 528 when the driven member 520 slides toward the proximal cap 524. The nesting of the nose 554 within the narrow region 556 can effectively prevent the driven member 520 from sliding further toward the proximal cap 524. When the nose 554 is nested within the narrowed region 556, the tapered shape of each of the nose 554 and the narrowed region 556 can prevent the nose 554 from getting stuck in the narrowed region 556, thereby allowing the driven member 520 to easily slide away from the proximal cap 524.

[0091] Fig.16 and 17 Another alternative embodiment of a tensioning device 610 is shown, which can be used with Fig.10 and 11 The tensioning device 310 shown is similar or identical in many respects. For example, the tensioning device 610 may include a housing 622 and a driven member 620 disposed in an interior 628 at least partially defined by the housing 622. The driven member 620 may include a central body 636. However, a rigid ring 658 may be coupled to the central body 636 rather than to a cable member (e.g., 46). The rigid ring 658 may facilitate attachment of a strapping member thereto, but may be sufficiently rigid to allow the tensioning device 610 to be used to push objects apart. In particular, the tensioning device 610 may be wedged between two objects, and the drive member 618 may be rotated to extend the rigid ring 658 relative to the housing 622, which may cause the two objects to separate.

[0092] Fig.18 and 19 Another alternative embodiment of a tensioning device 710 is shown, which can be used with Figure 1 and 2 The tensioning device 10 shown is similar or identical in many respects. Fig.19 As shown, the tensioning device 710 may include a housing 722 and a driven member 720 disposed in an interior 728 at least partially defined by the housing 722. However, the drive member 718 may be located on the housing 722 between the proximal cap 724 and the distal cap 726 ( Fig.18), so that the tensioning device 710 is in a "side drive" arrangement. In this arrangement, the driven member 720 can slide along an axis (not shown) that is perpendicular to the rotational axis of the drive member 718. The drive member 718 can be operably coupled to a bevel gear 760 that intermeshes with the threaded end 732 of the drive rod 714. Rotation of the drive member 718 can rotate the bevel gear 760, which can rotate the drive rod 714 (via the threaded end 732) to facilitate sliding of the driven member 720 within the interior 728. The proximal cap 724 can include a hook member 762 ( Fig.18 ) or other similar device that allows the strapping member to be secured thereto. It should be understood that the tensioning device 710 can facilitate the tensioning of the strapping member from the opposite end of the tensioning device 710 rather than from the hook (e.g., Figures 41-43 2129) in which the binding components are pulled in both directions.

[0093] Fig. 20 Another alternative embodiment of a tensioning device 810 is shown, which can be used with Fig.18 and 19 The illustrated tensioning device 710 is similar or in many respects identical. However, the drive member 818 can be at a different angle relative to the axis of rotation of the drive rod (eg, 714).

[0094] Fig.21 Another alternative embodiment of a tensioning device 910 is shown, which can be used with Figure 1 and 2 The tensioner 10 shown is similar or identical in many respects. For example, the tensioner 910 can include a housing 922 and a driven member 920 disposed in an interior 928 at least partially defined by the housing 922. However, the tensioner 910 can include a rod member 964 extending along the interior 928 and passing through the driven member 920. The driven member 920 can have an elongated gear member 966 extending from the central body 936 in a cantilever arrangement. The actuator 968 can be disposed along the exterior of the housing 922 and can interface with the elongated gear member 966 such that actuation of the actuator 968 can cause the driven member 920 to slide within the interior 928.

[0095] Fig. 22 and 23 Another alternative embodiment of a tensioning device 1010 is shown, which can be similar to the tensioning device 1010 in many aspects. Fig.10 and 11 The tensioning device 310 shown is similar or identical to the tensioning device 310 shown. Fig. 22As shown, the tensioning device 1010 may include a housing 1022 and a driven member 1020 disposed in an interior 1028 at least partially defined by the housing 1022. The driven member 1020 may include a tab member 1038 ( Fig.23 ). However, the housing 1022 can define an elongated slot 1070 extending through the housing 1022. The tab member 1038 can extend through the elongated slot 1070 and extend to the exterior of the tensioning device 1010 to allow a hook or other device to be attached thereto for engaging the strapping member. The tab member 1038 can also provide a visual indication of the position of the driven member 1020 within the housing 1022.

[0096] Fig.24 Another alternative embodiment of a tensioning device 1110 is shown, which can be used with Figure 1 and 2 The tensioning device 10 shown is similar or identical in many respects. For example, the tensioning device 1110 can include a drive member 1118 located at the distal cap 1126. However, the drive member 1118 can be configured as a ratchet head that only allows the drive rod (e.g., 14) to rotate in one direction when the drive member 1118 is rotated in different directions. A selector switch 1172 can be provided that extends from the distal cap 1126 and allows the user to select the direction of rotation of the drive rod. The clutch assembly (not shown) can be configured to provide an audible sound (e.g., a click or a pop) to notify the user when a specific torque value is reached (similar to a torque wrench).

[0097] Fig.25 and 26 Another alternative embodiment of a tensioning device 1210 is shown, which can be used with Figure 1 and 2 The tensioning device 10 shown is similar or in many respects identical. However, the tensioning device 1210 may include a visual indicator 1274 that can notify the user when a certain torque value is reached (similar to a torque wrench). Fig.25 A visual indicator 1274 is shown that the under-torque condition is in place. Fig.26 A visual indicator 1274 of being in an under torque or over torque state is shown.

[0098] Fig. 27 and 28 Another alternative embodiment of a tensioning device 1310 is shown, which can be used with Figure 1 and 2The tensioner 10 shown is similar or identical in many respects. For example, the tensioner 1310 may include a clutch assembly 1316. The clutch assembly 1316 may be a disc arrangement that includes an inner disc 1376 sandwiched between a pair of outer discs 1378. When the clutch assembly 1316 is in an under-torque state, such as Fig. 27 As shown, the inner plate 1376 is engaged with the outer plate 1378, so that the drive member 1318 is engaged with the drive rod 1314, so that the drive rod 1314 rotates with the drive member 1318. When the clutch assembly 1316 is in the under-torque or over-torque state, as shown in FIG. Fig.28 As shown, the outer disks are separated such that the inner disk 1376 is no longer engaged with the outer disk 1378 , and the drive member 1318 is separated from the drive rod 1314 such that rotation of the drive member 1318 no longer rotates the drive rod 1314 .

[0099] Fig.29 and 30 Another alternative embodiment of a tensioning device 1410 is shown, which can be used with Fig.26 and 27 The tensioning device 1310 shown is similar or identical in many respects to the tensioning device 1310 shown. For example, the tensioning device 1410 can include a clutch assembly 1416. However, the clutch assembly 1416 can be a sprag-type clutch device that includes a plurality of sprags 1480 that selectively engage an upper plate 1482. When the clutch assembly 1416 is in an under-torque state, such as Fig.29 As shown, the wedge block 1480 is engaged with the upper plate 1482, so that the drive member 1418 is engaged with the drive rod 1414, so that the drive rod 1414 rotates with the drive member 1418. When the clutch assembly 1416 is in the under-torque or over-torque state, as shown in FIG. Fig.30 As shown, wedge block 1480 is disengaged from upper disk 1482 so that rotation of drive member 1418 no longer rotates drive rod 1414.

[0100] Fig.31 and 32 Another alternative embodiment of a tensioning device 1510 is shown, which can be used with Fig.28 and 29 The tensioner 1410 shown is similar or identical in many respects. For example, the tensioner 1510 can include a clutch assembly 1516, which includes a plurality of sprags 1580. However, the sprags 1580 selectively engage the lower plate 1584. When the clutch assembly 1516 is in an under-torque state, such as Fig.31 As shown, the wedge 1580 engages with the lower plate 1584, so that the drive member 1518 engages with the drive rod 1514, so that the drive rod 1514 rotates with the drive member 1518. When the clutch assembly 1516 is in the under-torque or over-torque state, as shown in FIG. Fig.32 As shown, wedge 1580 is disengaged from lower disk 1584 such that rotation of drive member 1518 no longer rotates drive rod 1514 .

[0101] Fig.33 An alternative embodiment of a clutch assembly 1616 is shown which may be used with Fig. 27 and 28 The clutch assembly 1316 shown is similar or identical in many respects. However, the clutch assembly 1616 can be a torque-limited friction-type clutch, which can include a plurality of discs 1686 sandwiched between an upper disc 1688 and a lower disc 1690. The upper disc 1688 can be attached to a drive member (not shown), and the lower disc 1690 can be coupled to a drive rod (not shown). When the clutch assembly 1616 is in an under-torque state, the upper disc 1688 engages with the lower disc 1690, so that the drive member engages with the drive rod so that the drive rod rotates with the drive member. When the clutch assembly 1616 is in an under-torque or over-torque state, the disc 1686 facilitates the mechanical separation of the upper disc 1688 from the lower disc 1690, so that the rotation of the drive member no longer rotates the drive rod.

[0102] Figure 34-36 Another alternative embodiment of a clutch assembly 1716 is shown which is similar in many respects to the Fig. 27 and 28 The clutch assembly 1316 shown is similar or identical to the clutch assembly 1316 shown. However, the clutch assembly 1716 can be a tension limiting clutch, which can include an input flange 1792 and an output flange 1794. The input flange 1792 can be coupled to a drive member (not shown) and the output flange 1794 can be coupled to a drive rod (not shown). Fig.36 As shown, the clutch assembly 1716 may include an actuation ring 1796 coupled to the input flange 1792 and a base member 1798 coupled to the output flange 1794. A plurality of engagement balls 1799 are sandwiched between the actuation ring 1796 and the base member 1798. When the clutch assembly 1716 is in an under-torque state ( Fig.34 ), the engagement ball 1799 couples the actuation ring 1796 and the base element 1798 together, so that the drive member engages the drive rod so that the drive rod rotates with the drive member. Fig.35 ), the engagement ball 1799 disengages the actuation ring 1796 to separate the actuation ring 1796 from the base element 1798 so that rotation of the drive member no longer rotates the drive rod.

[0103] Fig.37 Another alternative embodiment of a tensioning device 1810 is shown, which can be used with Figure 1 and 2The tensioning device 10 shown is similar or identical in many respects. For example, the tensioning device 1810 may include a cable member 1846. However, the cable member 1846 may be devoid of a clamp member (eg, 50).

[0104] Fig.38 Another alternative embodiment of a tensioning device 1910 is shown, which can be used with Fig.10 and 11 The tensioning device 310 shown is similar or identical in many respects. For example, the tensioning device 1910 can include a housing 1922, a proximal cap 1924, and a distal cap 1926. A cable member 1946 can pass through the driven member 1920. However, one end of the cable member 1946 can be attached to the distal cap 1926 so that sliding of the driven member 1920 in the interior 1928 only slides one end of the cable member 1946 relative to the distal cap 1926 to change the effective length of the cable member 1946.

[0105] Fig.39 An alternative embodiment of a cable member 2046 is shown which may include a rigid sleeve 2002 and a clamp member 2050 disposed adjacent to the rigid sleeve 2002 .

[0106] Fig.40A , 40B , 40C, 40D, 40E, 40F, 40G and 40H show various alternative arrangements of a housing (eg, 22) of a housing assembly (eg, 12). For each arrangement, an anti-rotation device (not shown) may be disposed within the housing and be similar in shape to the housing.

[0107] Figures 41-45 Another alternative embodiment of a tensioning device 2110 is shown, which may include features similar to or in many respects identical to those of the tensioning devices described above. Fig.42 and 43 As shown, the tensioner 2110 may include a housing assembly 2112 including an inner sleeve 2115, a housing 2122, and a cap 2126. The inner sleeve 2115 may be disposed within the housing 2122 and rotatably coupled to the housing 2122. In one embodiment, the inner sleeve 2115 may be journaled relative to the housing 2122 by a pair of bearings (not shown).

[0108] The driven member 2120 may be disposed within the inner sleeve 2115, such as Fig.43 As shown, and is movably connected to the inner sleeve 2115. In one embodiment, the inner sleeve 2115 may include a threaded portion 2121 ( Fig.42), the threaded portion includes threads formed on the inner diameter of the inner sleeve 2115. The threads of the threaded portion 2121 can cooperate with the threads on the outer diameter of the driven member 2120, so that the inner sleeve 2115 and the driven member 2120 are threadedly coupled together. In such an embodiment, the rotation of the inner sleeve 2115 relative to the housing 2122 facilitates the linear movement (e.g., translation) of the driven member 2120 relative to the inner sleeve 2115. The inner sleeve 2115 can also include a non-threaded portion (not shown) adjacent to the threaded portion 2121 to prevent the driven member 2120 from excessively moving relative to the inner sleeve 2115.

[0109] Reference now Fig.42 and 43 , the cable member 2146 can be coupled to the driven member 2120, so that the sliding of the driven member 2120 relative to the inner sleeve 2115 can correspondingly cause the cable member 2146 to be in the extended position ( Fig.43 middle dashed line) and retracted position ( Fig.43 In one embodiment, the driven member 2120 may include a crimping portion 2127 that may be crimped onto the cable member 2146 to facilitate attachment therebetween. In other embodiments, the cable member 2146 may be coupled to the driven member 2120 via welding, fasteners, adhesives, or any of a variety of suitable coupling arrangements.

[0110] like Figures 41-43 As shown, the housing 2122 may include a hook 2129 and the cable member 2146 may include a hook 2147 disposed at an end of the cable member 2146 opposite the driven member 2120. The hooks 2129, 2147 may cooperate with each other to facilitate attachment of the tensioning device 2110 to a strapping member (not shown). In one embodiment, the hook 2147 may be crimped or cast onto the cable member 2146, but in other embodiments, the hook 2147 may be coupled to the cable member 2146 in any of a variety of suitable alternative manners. It should be understood that while a pair of hooks 2129, 2147 are shown and described, any of a variety of suitable alternative attachment features may be provided on the housing 2122, the cable member 2146, and / or at other locations on the tensioning device 2110 to facilitate attachment of the tensioning device 2110 to a strapping member.

[0111] Reference now Fig.42 and 43 , a plurality of anti-rotation members 2130 may be disposed in the inner sleeve 2115 and may be configured to prevent the driven member 2120 from rotating during rotation of the inner sleeve 2115. Each anti-rotation member 2130 may be coupled to the driven member 2120 at one end and to the housing 2122 at the opposite end (see Fig.43For example, one end of the anti-rotation member 2130 may extend through the hole 2131 defined by the driven member 2120 ( Fig.42 ), to facilitate coupling therebetween. The opposing ends of the anti-rotation member 2130 may extend into the cap 2126 to facilitate coupling therebetween. The ends of the anti-rotation member 2130 may be attached to the driven member 2120 or the housing 2122 by an interference fit, with an adhesive, by welding, by crimping, or with any of a variety of other suitable alternative attachment arrangements. It should be understood that while three anti-rotation members are shown, any number of anti-rotation members may be provided.

[0112] The drive member 2118 can be rotatably coupled to the housing 2122 and operably coupled to the inner sleeve 2115 such that rotation of the drive member 2118 facilitates rotation of the inner sleeve 2115 relative to the housing 2122. In one embodiment, the drive member 2118 can be rigidly attached to the inner sleeve 2115 by welding, with an adhesive, or by a mutually engaging arrangement. In another embodiment, the drive member 2118 and the inner sleeve 2115 can be provided as an integral, one-piece structure. The drive member 2118 can include a drive head 2133 configured to cooperate with a wrench or socket to facilitate manual or powered rotation of the drive member 2118 with a tool.

[0113] The inner sleeve 2115 and the drive member 2118 may be sandwiched between a pair of thrust washers 2137 that facilitate journaling of the inner sleeve 2115 relative to the housing 2122. It will be appreciated that any of a variety of suitable alternative arrangements may be provided for journaling the inner sleeve 2115 and the drive member 2118 relative to the housing 2122, such as ball bearings or roller bearings. The retaining ring 2139 ( Fig.42 ) can be disposed on the thrust washer 2137 at the driving member 2118 to facilitate retaining the inner sleeve 2115, the driving member 2118, the driven member 2120, and the thrust washer 2137 within the housing 2122. In some embodiments, an O-ring, a bushing, or other suitable sealing device can be disposed between the inner sleeve 2115 and the housing 2122.

[0114] The driving member 2118 can be operably coupled to the driven member (via the inner sleeve 2115) so that the driven member 2120 can slide along an axis (not shown) parallel to the rotational axis of the driving member 2118. Figures 41-43As shown, the driven member 2120 can slide along an axis coaxial with the rotation axis of the driving member 2118. The driving member 2118 can be rotated accordingly to facilitate the cable member 2146 (via the driven member 2120) to be selectively extended and retracted relative to the housing 2122. For example, when the driving member 2118 is rotated (e.g., with a tool), the inner sleeve 2115 can be rotated relative to the housing 2122 accordingly. When the inner sleeve 2115 is rotated, the anti-rotation member 2130 can prevent the driven member 2120 from rotating, which can cause the driven member 2120 to move linearly relative to the inner sleeve 2115 (e.g., due to the threaded engagement between the inner sleeve 2115 and the driven member 2120) to move between the extended position ( Fig.43 middle dashed line) and retracted position ( Fig.43 2147). In one embodiment, rotation of the drive member 2118 in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction (when viewing the drive member 2118 of the tensioning device 2110) can facilitate movement of the cable member 2146 to the retracted position or the extended position, respectively. In another embodiment, rotation of the drive member 2118 in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction can facilitate movement of the cable member 2146 to the extended position or the retracted position, respectively. It should be understood that when a tying member (not shown) is attached to the hooks 2129, 2147, retracting and extending the cable member 2146 can increase and decrease the tension on the tying member, respectively.

[0115] Reference now Fig.44 and 45 , hook 2147 may include a tension sensor 2149 configured to facilitate detection of the tension applied by tensioning device 2110 (e.g., between hooks 2129, 2147). Fig.44 and 45 As shown, the tension sensor 2149 may include a sensing device 2153, a wireless communication module 2155, a microcontroller 2157 (e.g., a control module), and a power module 2159. In one embodiment, a cover (not shown) may be provided over the tension sensor 2149 to protect the tension sensor 2149 from environmental conditions (e.g., moisture, precipitation, or inadvertent contact). The sensing device 2153 may be configured to detect the tension applied by the tensioning device 2110 (e.g., the tension applied to the strapping member) as a function of the strain (or other force) applied to the hook 2147. In one embodiment, the sensing device 2153 may include a strain gauge or a Hall effect sensor. However, other sensing devices for detecting strain or other forces are also contemplated.

[0116] The wireless communication module 2155 can facilitate wireless communication with the remote computing device 2161 via any of a variety of wireless communication protocols, such as near field communication (e.g., Bluetooth, ZigBee), wireless personal area network (WPAN) (e.g., IrDA, UWB). The microcontroller 2157 can collect sensor data from the sensing device 2153 for processing, and can wirelessly transmit the sensor data (via the wireless communication module 2155) to the remote computing device 2161.

[0117] For example, the remote computing device 2161 may be a smartphone (e.g., an iOS or Android device), a laptop, a tablet, or a desktop computer. The remote computing device 2161 may have an application loaded thereon that is configured to analyze data from the tension sensor 2149 to display tension values ​​and / or generate warnings when appropriate, such that the tension sensor 2149 and the remote computing device 2161 cooperate to provide a monitoring system (e.g., an Internet of Things (IoT) system) for the tensioning device 2110. In some arrangements, the tension sensor 2149 may communicate directly (e.g., via a cellular connection) with a remote server (e.g., a cloud-based server) accessed by the remote computing device 2161. In one embodiment, the tension sensor 2149 may include an onboard display 2163 that displays the tension value to the user at the hook 2147.

[0118] The power module 2159 can facilitate onboard powering of the sensing device 2153, the wireless communication module 2155, and the microcontroller 2157, and can include an integrated power storage device, such as a disposable battery, a rechargeable battery, a supercapacitor, or any of a variety of suitable alternative power storage devices. The rechargeable battery pack can be recharged by any of a variety of power sources, such as a wall outlet, a solar panel, or energy harvested from a nearby communication device (e.g., a passive power supply device). In one embodiment, as Fig.44 As shown, the power module 2159 can be embedded in the hook 2147.

[0119] It should be understood that although a tension sensor is described, any of a variety of suitable alternative sensors are contemplated to monitor different physical parameters of the tensioning device, such as temperature, position (e.g., GPS), tilt angle, or humidity. It should also be understood that although the tension sensor 2149 is shown as being disposed on the hook 2147, the tension sensor 2149 or any other sensor may be disposed at any of a variety of internal or external locations along the tensioning device 2110.

[0120] An example scenario of using the tensioning device 2110 to tighten the tying member will now be described. First, the cable member 2146 of the tensioning device 2110 can be set in an extended position (such as Fig.43The strapping member that has been passed around / over the article can be attached to one of the hooks 2129, 2147 at each end. The user can then rotate the drive member 2118 (e.g., with a hand tool or a power tool) in a tightening direction (e.g., clockwise) to begin retracting the cable member 2146 into the housing 2122 and tighten the strapping member. The tension sensor 2149 can detect the tension on the strapping member (via the hook 2147) and can display the tension to the user (on an onboard display or a remote computing device). As the user continues to rotate the drive member 2118 to increase the tension on the strapping member, the user can monitor the tension value displayed to the user on the remote computing device 2161 and / or onboard display 2163. Once the strapping reaches the desired tension, the user can stop rotating the drive member 2118. In one embodiment, the tension sensor 2149 and / or the remote computing device 2161 can be programmed with a predetermined tension threshold and can warn the user (e.g., visually or audibly) when the tension has reached or exceeded the tension threshold. To release the strapping member, the user may rotate the drive member 2118 in a loosening direction (eg, counterclockwise).

[0121] In one embodiment, the tensioning device 2110 may be used in the trucking industry to secure a load on a long-haul trailer. In such an embodiment, the tension sensor 2149 may be configured to communicate directly with an onboard fleet management computing system. The tension detected by the tensioning member may be wirelessly transmitted to the onboard fleet management computing system (e.g., via Bluetooth) and displayed to the operator of the tractor trailer. When the tension drops below a predetermined threshold, such as due to load shifting or disengagement, an alarm may be issued to the operator.

[0122] An alternative embodiment of the tensioning device 2210 is Figures 46-48 and can be compared in many ways to Figures 41-45 The tensioning device 2110 shown in FIG. 2 is similar or identical to the tensioning device 2110 shown in FIG. Fig.47 and 48 As shown, the tensioning device 2210 may include a housing 2222, an inner sleeve 2215, and a drive member 2218 operably coupled to the inner sleeve 2215. The tensioning device 2210 may also include a cable member 2246 coupled to a hook 2247. The hook 2247 may include a tension sensor 2249 ( Fig.47 ). However, the tensioning device 2210 can include a clutch assembly 2265 that facilitates selective operable coupling between the drive member 2218 and the inner sleeve 2215 and includes a clutch spring 2267 sandwiched between a pair of clutch pins 2269. The clutch spring 2267 and the clutch pins 2269 can be disposed in a recess 2271 defined by the drive member 2218 ( Fig.47The clutch pins 2269 may each be located within a plurality of internal grooves 2273 ( Fig.47 ) in one of the clutch springs 2267 and the inner sleeve 2215. During rotation of the drive member 2218, the clutch pin 2269 can extend into the inner slot 2273 to couple the drive member 2218 with the inner sleeve 2215. Once the torque applied to the drive member 2218 exceeds a predetermined threshold, the clutch pin 2269 can slide out of the inner slot 2273, which can separate the drive member 2218 from the inner sleeve 2215 (e.g., clutch disengagement) and can provide audible and / or tactile feedback that the appropriate cable tension has been achieved. It should be understood that the predetermined threshold torque can be a function of the spring constant of the clutch spring 2267, the configuration of the clutch pin 2269, and / or the configuration of the inner slot 2273. It should also be understood that the tension applied by the cable member 2246 can be proportional to the torque applied to the drive member 2218 (e.g., input torque).

[0123] An alternative embodiment of the tensioning device 2310 is Figure 49-51 and can be compared in many ways to Figures 46-48 The tensioning device 2210 shown in FIG. 2 is similar or identical to the tensioning device 2210 shown in FIG. Figure 49-51 As shown, the tensioning device 2310 may include a housing 2322, an inner sleeve 2315, and a drive member 2318 operably coupled to the inner sleeve 2315. The tensioning device 2310 may also include a cable member 2346 coupled to a hook 2347. The hook 2347 may include a tension sensor 2349. The tensioning device 2310 may include a clutch assembly 2365 that facilitates selective operable coupling between the drive member 2318 and the inner sleeve 2315, and includes a clutch spring 2367 sandwiched between a pair of clutch pins 2369. However, the tensioning device 2310 may include an anti-rotation sleeve 2375 (instead of Fig.42 and 43 The anti-rotation member 2130 is shown. The anti-rotation sleeve 2375 can include a pair of arms 2377 extending through the hole 2331 in the driven member 2320. When the driving member 2318 rotates, the driven member 2320 can slide along the arms 2377 without rotating.

[0124] Figure 52-54 An alternative embodiment of a tensioning device 2410 is shown in FIG. 2 , which may include features similar to or in many respects identical to various features of the tensioning devices described above, such as Figures 41-45 , 46-48 and 49-51 tensioning devices 2110, 2210 and 2310. Fig.52 and 53As shown, the tensioner 2410 may include an inner sleeve 2415 and a housing 2422. The inner sleeve 2415 may be disposed within the housing 2422 and rotatably coupled to the housing 2422. In one embodiment, a pair of roller bearings 2479 may be disposed between the housing 2422 and the inner sleeve 2415 to journal the inner sleeve 2415 relative to the housing 2422. It should be appreciated that the inner sleeve 2415 may be rotatably coupled to the housing 2422 in any of a variety of suitable alternative arrangements.

[0125] like Fig.53 As shown, the driven member 2420 may include a body 2481 including a proximal end 2483 and a distal end 2485. A ring member 2445 may be coupled to the distal end 2485 of the body 2481. In one embodiment, the body 2481 and the ring member 2445 may be formed together as a single-piece structure (e.g., by forging), but in other embodiments, the body 2481 and the ring member 2445 may be separate components fastened together (e.g., by welding or with fasteners). The threaded collar 2487 may be coupled to the proximal end 2483 (e.g., welded or formed as an integral single-piece structure with the body 2481) by a fastener 2489 or by any of a variety of suitable alternative coupling arrangements. It should be understood that although a ring member is illustrated and described, any of a variety of suitable alternative attachment features may be provided as part of the driven member, such as a hook, bolt, wedge, or ring member, and / or provided at other locations on the driven member 2420 to facilitate attachment of the driven member 2420 to the tying member.

[0126] The driven member 2420 may be movably coupled to the inner sleeve 2415. Fig.54 As shown, the driven member 2420 can extend into the inner sleeve 2415 so that the threaded collar 2487 is disposed in the inner sleeve 2415. The inner sleeve 2415 can include an inner threaded surface 2491 ( Fig.54 ), which threadably engages the threaded collar 2487, so that the inner sleeve 2415 and the threaded collar 2487 are threadedly connected together. When the inner sleeve 2415 rotates relative to the housing 2422, the inner threaded surface 2491 can rotate relative to the threaded collar 2487, so that the driven member 2420 is in the extended position ( Fig.54 middle dashed line) and retracted position ( Fig.54 The solid line in the middle shows a linear movement (e.g., translation) between the two.

[0127] like Figure 52-54As shown, the tensioning device 2410 can include a saddle member 2429 disposed at an end of the housing 2422 opposite the ring member 2445. The saddle members 2429 can cooperate with each other to facilitate attachment of the tensioning device 2410 to a strapping member (not shown). In one embodiment, the saddle member 2429 can be pivotally coupled to the housing 2422, but in other embodiments, the saddle member 2429 can be pivotally or rigidly coupled to the housing 2422 in any of a variety of suitable alternatives. It should be understood that although a saddle member is illustrated and described, any of a variety of suitable alternative attachment features can be provided on the housing 2422, such as a hook, bolt, wedge, or ring member, and / or provided at other locations on the tensioning device 2410 to facilitate attachment of the housing 2422 to the strapping member.

[0128] Reference now Fig.53 and 54 , the tensioner 2410 may include a cap 2426 that surrounds the body 2481 of the driven member 2420 and is coupled to one end of the housing 2422. A thrust washer 2437 may be sandwiched between the inner sleeve 2415 and the cap 2426 to facilitate journaling of the inner sleeve 2415 relative to the housing 2422. In one embodiment, the cap 2426 may be threaded into the housing 2422, but in other embodiments, the cap 2426 may be coupled to the housing 2422 in any of a variety of suitable alternative arrangements. The cap 2426 may include a channel 2495 ( Fig.53 ) of the guide member 2493, and the body 2481 of the driven member 2420 extends through the channel. A gasket 2497 can be provided at the interface between the body 2481 of the driven member 2420 and the guide member 2493 to provide an effective seal therebetween for limiting contaminants from entering the housing 2422 between the driven member and the guide member 2493. In some embodiments, an O-ring, a bushing or other suitable sealing device (not shown) can be provided between the cap 2426 and the housing 2422 for limiting contaminants from entering the housing 2422 between the housing 2422 and the cap 2426.

[0129] The body 2481 and the channel 2495 of the driven member 2420 may each have a complementary non-circular cross-sectional shape (taken at a section orthogonal to the centerline Cl) so that the guide member 2493 cooperates with the body 2481 to prevent the driven member 2420 from rotating during the rotation of the inner sleeve 2415. Fig.53As shown, each of the body 2481 and the channel 2495 of the driven member 2420 can have a hexagonal cross-sectional shape. However, it should be understood that the body 2481 and the channel 2495 of the driven member 2420 can have other non-circular cross-sectional shapes, including other polygonal shapes, which facilitates the mating interaction between the body 2481 of the driven member 2420 and the guide member 2493 to prevent the rotation of the driven member 2420. It should also be understood that the guide member 2493 can be any of a variety of suitable alternative arrangements for preventing the rotation of the driven member 2420, and can be coupled to the housing in any of a variety of suitable alternative arrangements. For example, the guide member can be separated from the cap (e.g., 2426) and completely disposed within the housing (e.g., 2422).

[0130] The drive member 2418 can be rotatably coupled to the housing 2422 and operably coupled to the inner sleeve 2415 such that rotation of the drive member 2418 facilitates rotation of the inner sleeve 2415 relative to the housing 2422. In one embodiment, the tensioning device 2410 can include a clutch assembly 2265 that facilitates selective operable coupling between the drive member 2218 and the inner sleeve 2215 and includes a clutch spring 2267 sandwiched between a pair of clutch pins 2269. The clutch spring 2267 and the clutch pin 2269 can be disposed in a recess 2271 defined by the drive member 2218 ( Fig.47 The clutch pins 2269 may each be located within a plurality of internal grooves 2273 ( Fig.47 ) in one of the plurality of cable members 2246. During rotation of the drive member 2218, the clutch pin 2269 can extend into the internal groove 2273 to couple the drive member 2218 with the internal sleeve 2215. Once the torque applied to the drive member 2218 exceeds a predetermined threshold, the clutch pin 2269 can slide out of the internal groove 2273, which can separate the drive member 2218 from the internal sleeve 2215 (e.g., clutch disengagement) and can provide an audible and / or tactile feedback that the appropriate cable tension has been obtained. It should be understood that the predetermined threshold torque can be a function of the spring constant of the clutch spring 2267, the configuration of the clutch pin 2269, and / or the configuration of the internal groove 2273. It should also be understood that the tension applied by the cable member 2246 can be proportional to the torque (e.g., input torque) applied to the drive member 2218. In another embodiment, the drive member 2418 can be rigidly attached to the inner sleeve 2415 by welding, with an adhesive, or by an intermeshing arrangement. In yet another embodiment, the drive member 2418 and the inner sleeve 2415 can be provided as an integral, one-piece structure. The drive member 2418 can include a drive head 2433 configured to cooperate with a wrench or a socket to facilitate manual or powered rotation of the drive member 2418 with a tool. The retaining ring 2439 ( Fig.53) can be set on the driving member 2418 to facilitate retaining the inner sleeve 2415, the driving member 2418 and the driven member 2420 within the housing 2422.

[0131] The driving member 2418 can be operably coupled to the driven member (via the inner sleeve 2415) so that the driven member 2420 can slide along the centerline Cl (which can be parallel to the rotation axis of the driving member 2418). Figure 52-54 As shown, the driven member 2420 can slide along an axis coaxial with the rotation axis of the driving member 2418. The driving member 2418 can be rotated accordingly to facilitate the selective extension and retraction of the ring member 2445 (via the driven member 2420) relative to the housing 2422. For example, when the driving member 2418 is rotated (e.g., with a tool), the inner sleeve 2415 can be rotated relative to the housing 2422 accordingly. When the inner sleeve 2415 is rotated, the guide member 2493 can prevent the driven member 2420 from rotating, which can cause the driven member 2420 to move linearly along the inner sleeve 2415 (e.g., due to the threaded engagement between the inner sleeve 2415 and the threaded collar 2487) to move the driven member 2420 in an extended position ( Fig.54 middle dashed line) and retracted position ( Fig.54 2429 and the ring member 2445). In one embodiment, rotation of the drive member 2418 in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction (when viewing the drive member 2418 of the tensioning device 2410 along the centerline Cl) can facilitate movement of the driven member 2420 to the retracted position or the extended position, respectively. In another embodiment, rotation of the drive member 2418 in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction can facilitate movement of the driven member 2420 to the extended position or the retracted position, respectively. It should be understood that when a strapping member (not shown) is attached to the saddle member 2429 and the ring member 2445, retracting and extending the driven member 2420 can increase and decrease the tension on the strapping member, respectively.

[0132] An alternative embodiment of the tensioning device 2510 is Figure 55-57 and can be compared in many ways to Figure 52-54 The tensioning device 2410 shown in FIG. 2 is similar or identical to the tensioning device 2410 shown in FIG. Fig.56 and 57As shown, the tensioner 2510 may include a housing 2522, an inner sleeve 2515, a drive member 2518 operably coupled to the inner sleeve 2515, a driven member 2520, and a cap 2526. A threaded collar 2587 may be coupled to the body 2581 of the driven member 2520. The cap 2526 may include a guide member 2593. However, the tensioner 2510 may include a nut 2501 that facilitates releasable coupling of the body 2581 of the driven member 2520 with the threaded collar 2587. In an alternative embodiment, a crimped collar may be provided in place of the nut 2501.

[0133] Tensioner 2510 may also include an intermediate cap 2503 interposed between housing 2522 and cap 2526 and facilitating attachment of cap 2526 to housing 2522. Bearings 2505 may be associated with drive member 2518 to facilitate journaling of drive member 2518 and other associated components relative to housing 2522.

[0134] An alternative embodiment of the tensioning device 2610 is Figures 58-60 and can be compared in many ways to Figure 52-54 The tensioning device 2410 shown in FIG. 2 is similar or identical to the tensioning device 2410 shown in FIG. Fig.59 and 60 As shown, the tensioning device 2610 may include a housing 2622, an inner sleeve 2615, a drive member 2618 operably coupled to the inner sleeve 2615, a driven member 2620, and a cap 2626. The inner sleeve 2615 may include an inner threaded surface 2491 ( Fig.59 ). The cap 2626 may define a channel 2695. However, the body 2681 of the driven member 2620 may include an outer threaded surface 2607 threadedly engaged with the inner threaded surface 2691, so that rotation of the inner sleeve 2615 facilitates sliding of the driven member 2620 between the retracted position and the extended position. The body 2681 and the channel 2695 of the driven member 2620 may have a substantially circular cross-sectional shape to allow the outer threaded surface 2607 of the body to pass through the cap 2626 during sliding of the driven member 2620.

[0135] An alternative embodiment of the tensioning device 2710 is Figures 61-63 and can be compared in many respects to Figure 52-54 , 55-57 and 58-60 are similar or identical to the tensioning devices 2410, 2510, 2610 shown in FIG. Fig.56 and 57As shown, the tensioner 2710 may include an inner sleeve 2715, a drive member 2718, a driven member 2720, a housing 2722, and a cap 2726. The driven member 2720 may include a body 2781 and a ring member 2745. The housing 2722 may include a hook 2729. The threaded collar 2787 may be coupled to the body 2781. However, the tensioner 2710 may include a hook 2747 coupled to the ring member 2745 via a connecting rod 2751. The housing 2722 may include a body 2708 and a rear interface portion 2709 coupled to the body 2708 (e.g., threadedly coupled or welded thereto). The hook 2729 may be coupled to the rear interface portion 2709.

[0136] The torque amplifier assembly 2711 can be operably coupled to the drive member 2718. Fig.62 and 63 As shown, the torque amplifier assembly 2711 may include a torque amplifier 2713 and a coupling 2717. The torque amplifier 2713 may include an input 2719 and an output 2723 that are rotatably coupled together such that rotation of the input 2719 facilitates rotation of the output 2723. The output 2723 may be coupled to a drive member 2718 via the coupling 2717. The torque amplifier 2713 may be rotatably coupled to a sleeve 2725 that interlocks with the rear interface portion 2709 of the housing 2722. The input 2719 may have a square shape (or another shape) to allow the male end of a tool such as a torque wrench or ratchet to interface therewith to facilitate rotation of the input 2719. It should be understood that the input 2719 may alternatively have a male interface that may interface with a wrench, a socket, or other tool configured to engage a male interface.

[0137] Rotation of the input 2719 (e.g., with a tool) can rotate the output 2723, which can rotate the drive member 2718 (through the coupling 2717) to facilitate extension or retraction of the driven member 2720. During rotation of the input 2719 with a tool, the sleeve 2725 and the rear interface portion 2709 of the housing 2722 can remain interlocked to prevent slippage between the torque amplifier assembly 2711 and the housing 2722. The input 2719 and the output 2723 can be rotatably coupled to each other by a transmission (not shown) that defines a gear ratio between the input 2719 and the output 2723 that reduces the amount of rotational torque that would otherwise be required to directly rotate the drive member 2718 (e.g., a reduction gear set).

[0138] An alternative embodiment of the tensioning device 2810 is Fig.64 and 65 and can be respectively Figures 61-632810. For example, tensioning device 2810 may include ring member 2845, hook 2847, and link 2851 coupling hook 2847 to ring member 2845. Tensioning device 2810 may include tension sensor 2849 coupled to link 2851 and configured to facilitate detecting tension applied to a strapping member coupled to tensioning device 2810 (via link 2851). Tension sensor 2849 may be similar in many respects to the tensioning devices 2810 and 2849, respectively, as described above. Figures 41-45 , 46-48 and 49-51 are similar or identical to the tension sensors 2149, 2249, 2349 shown in FIG. Fig.65 As shown, the tension sensor 2849 may include a PCB board 2804, which includes a sensing device 2853, a wireless communication module 2855, a microcontroller 2857 (e.g., a control module), and a power source 2859 (e.g., a battery). The guide plate 2806 may be disposed within the connecting rod 2851 and may be associated with the PCB board 2804. The tension sensor 2849 may include a pair of covers 2800, which may be disposed on the tension sensor 2849 to protect the tension sensor 2849 from environmental conditions (e.g., moisture, precipitation, or unintentional contact). The sensing device 2853 may be configured to detect the tension on the strapping member as a function of the strain (or other force) applied from the connecting rod 2851 to the guide plate 2806.

[0139] An alternative embodiment of the saddle member 2929 is Fig.66 and can be compared in many ways to Figure 52-60 Saddle member 2929 may include a tension sensor 2949 that facilitates detecting the tension applied to the strapping member coupled to the tensioning device. Tension sensor 2849 may be similar in many respects to the saddle members (e.g., 2429) shown in FIG. 2929. Saddle member 2929 may include a tension sensor 2949 that facilitates detecting the tension applied to the strapping member coupled to the tensioning device. Tension sensor 2849 may be similar in many respects to the saddle members (e.g., 2429) shown in FIG. Figures 41-45 , 46-48, 49-51 and 64-65 are similar or identical to the tension sensors 2149, 2249, 2349, 2849 shown in FIG.

[0140] An alternative embodiment of the tensioning device 3010 is Figures 67-71 and can be compared in many ways to Figures 61-63 The tensioning device 2710 shown in FIG. 2 is similar or identical to the tensioning device 2710 shown in FIG. Fig.67 and 68As shown, the tensioning device 3010 may include a housing 3022, an inner sleeve 3015, a driving member 3018 operably coupled to the inner sleeve 3015, a driven member 3020, a cap 3026, and a tension sensor 3049 coupled to the housing 3022. The housing 3022 may include a main body 3008 and a rear interface portion 3009 coupled to the main body 3008 (e.g., threadedly coupled or welded thereto). The tension sensor 3049 may be coupled to the housing 3022 and may surround at least a portion of each of the main body 3008 and the rear interface portion 3009. The hook 3029 may be coupled to the rear interface portion 3009. The driven member 3020 may include a body 3081 and a ring member 3045. The hook 3047 may be coupled to the ring member 3045 via a connecting rod 3051. The threaded collar 3087 may be coupled to the body 3081 of the driven member 3020. The cap 3026 can include a guide member 3093 defining a channel 3095. The tensioning device 3010 can include a nut 3001 that facilitates releasable coupling of the body 3081 of the driven member 3020 with the threaded collar 3087.

[0141] Reference now Fig.69 , the tension sensor 3049 may include an annular housing 3049A that at least partially surrounds the housing 3022, and includes an inner annular sleeve 3035 and an outer annular sleeve 3041 that at least partially surrounds the inner annular sleeve 3035. The inner annular sleeve 3035 may include a plurality of protrusions 3043 (one is shown), and the rear interface portion 3009 may define a plurality of notches 3043A, each notch substantially aligned with one of the protrusions 3043. The inner annular sleeve 3035 may be inserted into the rear interface portion 3009 to facilitate coupling therebetween. When the inner annular sleeve 3035 is inserted into the rear interface portion 3009, each protrusion 3043 may engage with a corresponding one of the notches 3043A to ensure proper alignment of the tension sensor 3049 on the rear interface portion 3009, and to prevent the tension sensor 3049 from rotating relative to the rear interface portion 3009. The outer annular sleeve 3041 can be mounted on the inner annular sleeve 3035 and can be coupled to the rear interface portion 3009 by welding, adhesives, friction fit, or any of a variety of suitable alternative methods. In one embodiment, the tension sensor 3049 can be assembled to the housing 3022 during the manufacture of the tensioner 3010. In another embodiment, the tension sensor 3049 can be retrofitted to an existing tensioner (e.g., 3010) that does not have tension sensing capabilities.

[0142] Reference now Fig.70, the tension sensor 3049 may include a pair of sensing devices 3053, a wireless communication module 3055, a control module 3057, and a power module 3059 (e.g., a battery). The wireless communication module 3055 and the control module 3057 may be mounted on a printed circuit board 3055A. The printed circuit board 3055A and the power module 3059 may be disposed on opposite sides of the inner annular sleeve 3035, and their profiles may match the shape of the inner annular sleeve 3035 to allow the outer annular sleeve 3041 to be assembled on the printed circuit board 3055A and the power module 3059, so that the wireless communication module 3055, the control module 3057, and the power module 3059 are disposed between the inner annular sleeve 3035 and the outer annular sleeve 3035.

[0143] The inner annular sleeve 3035 may define a pair of recesses 3035A, and each sensing device 3053 may be disposed in a corresponding one of the recesses 3035A (see Fig.69 ). The notches 3035A can be disposed on opposite sides of the inner annular sleeve 3035 so that the sensing devices 3053 are circumferentially opposite to each other (e.g., approximately 180 degrees from each other). A pair of charging pins 3059A can be electrically coupled to the power module 3059 and can facilitate charging the power module 3059 with an external power source (not shown). The charging pins 3059A can extend through a pair of holes 3059B defined by the inner annular sleeve 3035 and extend to the exterior of the inner annular sleeve 3035 to serve as a charging port for the power module 3059.

[0144] Still refer to Fig.70 , the tension sensor 3049 may include an antenna 3055B that is communicatively coupled to the wireless communication module 3055 and facilitates wireless communication therewith. The antenna 3055B may be substantially annular so that the profile substantially matches the shape of the inner annular sleeve 3035. In one embodiment, the antenna 3055B may be disposed between the inner annular sleeve 3035 and the outer annular sleeve 3041 so as to be hidden from view. However, it should be appreciated that any of a variety of suitable alternative antenna arrangements and / or locations may be contemplated.

[0145] Reference now Fig.71, the driven member 3020 and the housing 3022 can cooperate to define a load path L through at least a portion of the tensioning device 3010. The sensing device 3053 can be positioned along the load path L and configured to detect tension applied by the tensioning device 3010 as a function of the load force transmitted along the load path L. In an embodiment, the sensing device 3053 can include a strain gauge configured to detect tension on the tensioning device 3010 as a function of strain (e.g., load force) on the main body 3008. In such an embodiment, the sensing device 3053 can be directly attached to the main body 3008 (e.g., with an adhesive) adjacent the interface between the main body 3008 and the rear interface portion 3009. When the tensioning device 3010 is under tension, the strain generated on the main body 3008 is transmitted through the sensing device 3053. The strain detected by the sensing device 3053 can be correlated with tension (e.g., by the control module 3057) and then transmitted to a local display and / or a remote computing device for metering, alarming (e.g., when tension exceeds a predetermined threshold), or various other suitable purposes. It should be understood that although two sensing devices (e.g., 3053) are described, the tension sensor 3049 can have any number of sensing devices (e.g., one or more than two). However, the use of two or more sensing devices (e.g., 3053) distributed along the circumference of the housing 3022 (e.g., Figures 67-71 ) can provide more accurate measurement and detection of the tension on the tensioning device 3010.

[0146] For the purpose of illustration and description, the foregoing description of embodiments and examples has been presented. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the forms described. In accordance with the above teachings, many modifications are possible. Some of these modifications have been discussed, and those skilled in the art will understand other modifications. These embodiments are selected and described to illustrate various embodiments. Of course, the scope is not limited to the examples or embodiments set forth herein, but can be adopted by those of ordinary skill in the art in any number of applications and equivalent devices. On the contrary, it is intended that the scope is limited by the appended claims. In addition, for any method claimed and / or described, whether or not the method is described in conjunction with a flowchart, it should be understood that, unless otherwise specified or required by the context, any explicit or implicit ordering of the steps performed in the execution of the method does not mean that the steps must be performed in the order presented, and can be performed in a different order or in parallel.

Claims

1. A tensioning device, comprising: A housing, comprising a main body and a rear interface portion coupled to the main body; a first attachment feature coupled to the housing; an inner sleeve at least partially disposed in the housing and rotatably coupled to the housing; a drive member rotatably coupled to the housing and operably coupled to the inner sleeve such that rotation of the drive member facilitates rotation of the inner sleeve; The driven member comprises: a main body at least partially disposed in the inner sleeve and movably coupled to the inner sleeve; and a second attachment feature coupled to the body and movable therewith; A tension sensor is coupled to the housing and includes at least one sensing device configured to facilitate detection of tension applied by the tensioning device, wherein rotation of the inner sleeve relative to the driven member facilitates linear movement of the driven member relative to the inner sleeve between an extended position and a retracted position to apply and maintain tension between the first attachment feature and the second attachment feature.

2. The tensioning device according to claim 1, wherein: The driven member and housing cooperate to define a load path through at least a portion of the tensioner; as well as The at least one sensing device is positioned along the load path and is configured to detect a tension force applied by the tensioning device based on a load force transmitted along the load path.

3. The tensioning device according to claim 2, wherein: The at least one sensing device is configured to detect the tension based on a strain exerted on the housing.

4. The tensioning device according to claim 3, wherein: The at least one sensing device comprises a strain gauge.

5. The tensioning device according to claim 2, wherein: The tension sensor also includes a wireless communication module, a control module and a power supply module.

6. The tensioning device according to claim 5, wherein: The tension sensor includes an annular housing at least partially surrounding the housing.

7. The tensioning device according to claim 6, wherein: The at least one sensing device, the wireless communication module, the control module and the power module are at least partially disposed within the annular housing.

8. The tensioning device according to claim 7, wherein: The annular housing comprises: an inner sleeve; and An outer sleeve at least partially surrounds the inner sleeve.

9. The tensioning device according to claim 8, wherein: The wireless communication module, the control module and the power supply module are arranged between the inner sleeve and the outer sleeve.

10. The tensioning device according to claim 9, wherein: The at least one sensing device comprises a first sensing device and a second sensing device; and The first and second sensing devices are directly attached to the main body.

11. The tensioning device according to claim 9, wherein: The first sensing device and the second sensing device are circumferentially opposite to each other.

12. The tensioning device according to claim 9 further includes a pair of charging pins, which are electrically connected to the power module and extend through the annular shell to the outside of the annular shell, wherein the charging pins are configured to facilitate charging the power module using an external power source.

13. The tensioning device of claim 9, further comprising an antenna communicatively coupled to the wireless communication module.

14. The tensioning device according to claim 13, wherein: The antenna is substantially annular and is disposed between the inner sleeve and the outer sleeve.

15. A tensioning device, comprising: case; a first attachment feature coupled to the housing; an inner sleeve at least partially disposed in the housing and rotatably coupled to the housing; a drive member rotatably coupled to the housing and operably coupled to the inner sleeve such that rotation of the drive member facilitates rotation of the inner sleeve; The driven member comprises: a main body at least partially disposed in the inner sleeve and movably coupled to the inner sleeve; and a second attachment feature coupled to and movable with the body; and A guide member is coupled to the housing and cooperates with the body of the driven member to prevent rotation of the driven member when the inner sleeve rotates, wherein rotation of the inner sleeve relative to the driven member facilitates linear movement of the driven member relative to the inner sleeve between an extended position and a retracted position to apply and maintain tension between the first attachment feature and the second attachment feature.

16. The tensioner of claim 15, further comprising a clutch assembly facilitating selective coupling between the drive member and inner sleeve.

17. The tensioning device of claim 15, wherein: The body further includes a threaded collar coupled to a proximal end of the body of the driven member; and The threaded collar is threadably connected to the inner sleeve.

18. The tensioning device according to claim 17, wherein: The threaded collar is releasably coupled to the proximal end of the body of the driven member by one of a fastener and a nut.

19. The tensioning device according to claim 15, wherein: The guide member defines a channel, and the body of the driven member extends through the channel to facilitate engagement therebetween.

20. The tensioner of claim 19, further comprising a cap having the guide member, the cap coupled to one end of the housing.

21. The tensioning device according to claim 19, wherein: Each of the passage and the body of the driven member each have substantially matching non-circular cross-sectional shapes taken at a cross section normal to the centerline.

22. The tensioning device according to claim 21, wherein: The non-circular cross-sectional shape of each of the channel and the body of the driven member includes a polygonal cross-sectional shape.

23. The tensioning device according to claim 22, wherein: The polygonal shape of each of the channel and the body of the driven member includes a hexagonal cross-sectional shape.

24. The tensioning device of claim 15, wherein: The first attachment feature is pivotally coupled to the housing.

25. The tensioning device of claim 15, wherein: The second attachment feature is rigidly coupled to the body.

26. The tensioning device of claim 25, wherein: The second attachment feature and the body are formed together as a one-piece structure.

27. The tensioner of claim 15, further comprising a pair of bearings, each bearing of the pair of bearings being disposed between the housing and the inner sleeve to journal the inner sleeve relative to the housing.

28. The tensioning device of claim 15, further comprising a tension sensor.

29. The tensioner of claim 28, further comprising a link member coupled to the driven member, and wherein: The tension sensor is coupled with the link member.

30. A tensioning device comprising: case; a first attachment feature coupled to the housing; an inner sleeve including a threaded collar portion, the inner sleeve at least partially disposed within the housing and rotatably coupled to the housing; a drive member rotatably coupled to the housing and operably coupled to the inner sleeve such that rotation of the drive member facilitates rotation of the inner sleeve; A driven member is linearly movable along a centerline relative to the housing between a retracted position and an extended position, the driven member comprising: A threaded body including a proximal end and a distal end; as well as A second attachment feature is coupled to the distal end of the threaded body and movable therewith, wherein the proximal end of the threaded body is threadedly coupled to the threaded collar portion so that rotation of the inner sleeve facilitates linear movement of the driven member relative to the inner sleeve between a retracted position and an extended position to apply and maintain tension between the first attachment feature and the second attachment feature.

31. The tensioner of claim 30, further comprising a cap having a guide member, the cap coupled to one end of the housing.

32. The tensioner of claim 30, further comprising a clutch assembly facilitating selective coupling between the drive member and inner sleeve.

33. The tensioning device of claim 30, wherein: The first attachment feature is pivotally coupled to the housing.

34. The tensioning device of claim 30, wherein: The second attachment feature is rigidly coupled to the threaded body.

35. The tensioning device of claim 34, wherein: The second attachment feature and the threaded body are formed together as a one-piece structure.

36. The tensioner of claim 30, further comprising a pair of bearings, each bearing of the pair of bearings being interposed between the housing and the inner sleeve to journal the inner sleeve relative to the housing.

37. The tensioning device of claim 30, further comprising a tension sensor.

38. The tensioner of claim 37, further comprising a link member coupled to the driven member, and wherein: The tension sensor is coupled with the link member.

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