Automatic mechanical tensioner with adjustable initial position

Abstract

A robotic tensioner assembly has a transport and installation position in which a collar engages a stationary hollow sleeve to restrain or secure a movable tensioner housing in place against spring force. The collar has a semi-circular body defining an inner circumference extending from a first end to a second end of the body. The semi-circular body has two axially extending flanges defining a cutout and a collar tab extending radially from the semi-circular body. In the transport and installation positions, the first end of the collar engages the delivery groove of the hollow sleeve, biases the movable housing toward an anti-rotation gasket engaged with the end of the fixed hollow sleeve, and compresses the spring.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims one or more inventions disclosed in Provisional Application No. 63 / 516,749, entitled “ADJUSTABLE POLE TENSIONER WITH RATCHET,” filed on July 31, 2023. The benefit of the U.S. Provisional Application under 35 USC §119(e) is claimed herein, and the aforementioned application is hereby incorporated by reference herein. Background Art

[0003] The present invention relates to tensioners and, more particularly, to an automatic mechanical tensioner having an adjustable position. Summary of the invention

[0004] According to one embodiment of the present invention, an automatic mechanical tensioner assembly is disclosed. The automatic mechanical tensioner comprises: a hollow sleeve, a movable housing, an anti-rotation washer, a spring and a collar. The hollow sleeve has a first end and a second end, an inner hole extending from the first end to the second end, and an outer circumference including a delivery groove. The movable housing has a main body and a flange extending axially therefrom, the main body having a first end and a second end, and the main body defines a hole for receiving the hollow sleeve and a cutout. The anti-rotation washer comprises a main body, and the main body defines an orifice for receiving the second end of the hollow sleeve. The spring is between the movable housing and the anti-rotation washer, and the spring biases the movable housing toward the first end of the hollow sleeve. The collar comprises a semicircular main body, the semicircular main body defines an inner circumference extending from the first end of the semicircular main body to the second end, the semicircular main body comprises two axially extending flanges defining a cutout, and a collar tab extending radially from the semicircular main body; wherein the inner circumference of the collar receives a plurality of circumferential teeth and a delivery groove. In the transport and installation position, the first end of the collar engages with the delivery groove of the hollow sleeve, biasing the movable housing towards the anti-rotation washer and compressing the spring.

[0005] According to another embodiment of the present invention, an automatic mechanical tensioner assembly is disclosed. The automatic mechanical tensioner assembly includes: a hollow sleeve, a movable housing, a ratchet clip, a retaining clip, an anti-rotation washer and a spring. The hollow sleeve has a first end and a second end, an inner hole extending from the first end to the second end, and an outer circumference including a plurality of circumferential teeth, and a mounting groove having a first mounting groove edge and a second mounting groove edge defined on the outer circumference adjacent to the second end. The movable housing has a main body and a flange extending axially therefrom, the main body having a first end and a second end, the main body defining a hole extending from the first end to the second end and including a ratchet clip groove adjacent to the first end of the main body and a transport mounting housing groove adjacent to the second end of the main body, the transport mounting housing groove including a first undercut groove; a first housing groove edge and a second undercut groove and a second housing groove edge, wherein the hole of the movable housing receives the hollow sleeve. The ratchet clip is received in the ratchet clip groove of the movable housing and is engageable with the plurality of circumferential teeth of the hollow sleeve. The retaining clip is received in the transport mounting housing groove and / or the mounting groove of the hollow sleeve. The anti-rotation washer has a body that defines an aperture for receiving the second end of the hollow sleeve. A spring is between the movable housing and the anti-rotation washer, the spring biasing the movable housing toward the first end of the hollow sleeve. In the transport and installation positions, the retaining clip engages a first mounting groove edge of the mounting groove of the hollow sleeve and a second housing groove edge of the movable housing. In the operating position, the retaining clip engages the first undercut groove and the first housing groove edge.

[0006] According to another embodiment, a method for installing an automatic mechanical tensioner assembly is disclosed. The method includes: inserting the automatic mechanical tensioner assembly into a hole in a chain drive system in a transport and installation position, the automatic mechanical tensioner assembly including: a hollow sleeve having a first end and a second end, an inner hole extending from the first end to the second end, and an outer circumference including a plurality of circumferential teeth, and a delivery groove adjacent to the plurality of circumferential teeth and the first end; a movable housing having a main body and a flange extending axially therefrom, the main body having a first end and a second end, the main body defining a hole, the hole including a ratchet clamp groove adjacent to the first end of the main body, wherein the hole receives the hollow sleeve; a ratchet clamp received in the ratchet clamp groove of the movable housing and engageable with the plurality of circumferential teeth of the hollow sleeve; an anti-rotation washer including a main body defining an orifice for receiving the second end of the hollow sleeve; a spring between the movable housing and the anti-rotation washer, the spring holding the movable housing in place. a body biased toward a first end of a hollow sleeve; a collar comprising a semicircular body defining an inner circumference extending from a first end to a second end of the semicircular body, the semicircular body comprising two axially extending flanges defining a cutout, and a collar tab extending radially from the semicircular body, wherein in a shipping and installation position, the first end of the collar engages with a delivery groove of the hollow sleeve, biasing the movable housing toward the anti-rotation washer and compressing the spring; inserting a screw into a hole of a chain drive and an inner hole of the hollow sleeve; mounting a tensioner face onto a radially extending flange of a movable housing of an automatic mechanical tensioner, the automatic mechanical tensioner being mounted in the hole of the chain drive; pre-tensioning the automatic mechanical tensioner assembly; and removing the collar by disengaging the collar from the delivery groove on the hollow sleeve, such that the automatic mechanical tensioner is in a working position.

[0007] According to another embodiment, an automatic mechanical tensioner assembly is disclosed. An automatic mechanical tensioner assembly includes: a hollow sleeve, a movable housing, a ratchet clip, an anti-rotation washer, a spring, a pin and a collar. The hollow sleeve has a first end and a second end, an inner hole extending from the first end to the second end, and an outer circumference including a plurality of circumferential teeth, and a delivery groove adjacent to the plurality of circumferential teeth and the first end. The movable housing has a body and a flange extending axially from the body, the body having a first end and a second end, the body defining a hole, the hole including a ratchet clip groove adjacent to the first end of the body, wherein the hole receives the hollow sleeve and the pin hole. The ratchet clip is received in the ratchet clip groove of the movable housing and is engageable with the plurality of circumferential teeth of the hollow sleeve. The anti-rotation washer includes a body, the body defining an aperture for receiving the second end of the hollow sleeve. The spring is between the movable housing and the anti-rotation washer, the spring biasing the movable housing toward the first end of the hollow sleeve; and the pin is receivable in the pin hole of the movable housing. The collar includes a semicircular body defining an inner circumference extending from a first end to a second end of the semicircular body, the semicircular body including two axially extending flanges defining a cutout, and a collar tab extending radially from the semicircular body; wherein the inner circumference of the collar receives a plurality of circumferential teeth and a delivery groove. In the shipping and installation position of the automatic mechanical tensioner assembly, the first end of the collar engages with the delivery groove of the hollow sleeve, biasing the movable housing toward the anti-rotation washer and compressing the spring, and the pin is received in the pin hole of the movable housing, thereby retaining the movable housing in a stationary position. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Figure 1 A top view of the tensioner assembly is shown.

[0009] Figure 2 A bottom view of the tensioner assembly is shown.

[0010] Figure 3 A front view of the tensioner assembly is shown.

[0011] Figure 4 Shows Figure 3 Cross-section along line 4-4.

[0012] Figure 5 A top view of the body of the tensioner assembly is shown.

[0013] Figure 6 A bottom view of the tensioner body is shown with the anti-rotation washer removed.

[0014] Figure 7 Shows Figure 6 End view of .

[0015] Figure 8 Shows Figure 7 Cross-section along line 8-8.

[0016] Fig. 9 Shows Figure 6 Cross-section along line 9-9.

[0017] Fig.10 The ratchet clamp is shown in a free state in the delivery position.

[0018] Fig.11 A top view of the anti-rotation washer is shown.

[0019] Fig.12 An isometric view of the spring of the tensioner assembly is shown.

[0020] Fig.13 A top view of the collar is shown.

[0021] Fig.14 Shows Fig.13 Cross-section along line 14-14.

[0022] Fig.15 Shows Fig.13 Side view of.

[0023] Fig.16 A front view of the collar is shown.

[0024] Fig.17 A view of the flange of the collar is shown.

[0025] Fig.18 A detailed view of an alternative embodiment of the sleeve and body of the tensioner housing is shown.

[0026] Fig.19 Shows Fig.18 A cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a tensioner assembly.

[0027] Fig. 20 A perspective view of the collar engaged with the movable housing is shown.

[0028] Fig.21a The tensioner assembly is shown installed within the chain drive system with the collar in place and the tensioner face removed in the shipping and installation position.

[0029] Figure 21b The tensioner assembly is shown installed within the chain drive system with the collar in place and the tensioner face in place in both the shipping and installed positions.

[0030] Fig.22aThe tensioner assembly is shown installed in a chain drive system with the collar removed and the tensioner face removed, with the tensioner assembly in an operating position.

[0031] Figure 22b The tensioner assembly is shown installed in a chain drive system with the collar removed and the tensioner face in place, with the tensioner assembly in an operating position.

[0032] Fig.23 Shows Fig.18 A cross-sectional view of a movable housing of an alternative embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Fig.24 A cross-sectional view of another alternative embodiment of a tensioner assembly is shown in which the hollow sleeve does not have a plurality of grooves.

[0034] Fig.25 Shows Fig.24 perspective view.

[0035] Fig.26a An alternative hollow sleeve with a flange is shown.

[0036] Figure 26b An alternative hollow sleeve having a flange with an anti-rotation washer is shown.

[0037] Fig. 27 The tensioner assembly is shown installed within a chain drive system with the collar removed and the tensioner face removed, with the tensioner assembly in an operating position with the cutout of the movable housing rotated ninety degrees.

[0038] Fig.28 The tensioner assembly is shown installed within a chain drive system with the collar removed and the tensioner face removed, with the tensioner assembly in an operating position with the cutout of the movable housing adjacent the anti-rotation washer or spring.

[0039] Fig.29 Another alternative tensioner assembly within a chain drive system is shown where a delivery pin is present and inserted into a movable housing.

[0040] Figure 30a-30b Loops with different lengths of material between the tab and the cutout are shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] Figure 1-30b The automatic mechanical tensioner assembly 100 is preferably mounted within an aperture or hole 176 of a drive chain housing or chain drive housing 177 that houses a chain drive system having a chain spanning a driven sprocket and a drive sprocket.

[0042] The automatic mechanical tensioner assembly 100 has a hollow sleeve 110 having a first end 110a and a second end 110b, and having a series of circumferential teeth 111 on its outer circumference 110c extending a length between the first end 110a and the second end 110b. At least one of the circumferential teeth is a stop groove 112. The circumferential teeth 111 are formed and spaced to receive a ratchet clip 130. The circumferential teeth 111 and the stop groove 112 are inclined toward the second end 110b of the hollow sleeve 110. In one embodiment, the circumferential teeth 111 and the stop groove 112 are adjacent to the first end 110a of the hollow sleeve 110. Alternatively, the circumferential teeth 111 and the stop groove 112 are adjacent to the second end 110b of the hollow sleeve 110.

[0043] The hollow sleeve 110 defines an inner bore 113 having at least one diameter along the central axis CC. The inner bore 113 of the hollow sleeve 110 receives a threaded screw (not shown). A delivery groove 114 is also provided along the outer circumference 110c adjacent the first end 110a and is sized to receive a collar 160 discussed in further detail below.

[0044] Fig.10 The ratchet clamp 130 is shown in a free state. The ratchet clamp 130 has an inwardly biased curved portion 131, whose free state diameter is less than or equal to the root diameter of the circumferential teeth 111 of the hollow sleeve 110. When a pair of ratchet clamp legs 132 overcome the bias of the curved portion 131 and move toward each other, the radius of curvature of the curved portion 131 is allowed to increase. The ratchet clamp 130 is preferably a shaped wire with a circular cross-section, and more preferably a substantially circular cross-section of the curved portion 131.

[0045] See also Figure 6-9, the movable tensioner housing 102 has a body 103 connected to a radially extending flange 104. The body 103 has a first end 103a and a second end 103b and defines a bore 105 coaxial with the hollow sleeve along a central axis CC and surrounding at least a portion of the hollow sleeve. The bore 105 extends from the first end 103a of the body 103 to the second end 103b. The radially extending flange 104 is perpendicular to the bore 105 defined by the body 103 of the movable tensioner housing 102 and receives a tensioner face (not shown). Within the bore 105 of the body 103 is a ratchet clip groove 109 that includes a series of diameters that vary depending on the portion of the bore 105. The ratchet clip groove 109 includes a first portion 105a located at the first end 103a, a second portion 105b, a transition portion 105d, and a third portion 105c. The first diameter d1 of the bore 105 exists at the proximal end of the bore and corresponds to the first portion 105a. Next to the first portion 105a is a second portion 105b having a second diameter d2. The second portion 105b is connected to the third portion 105c by a transition portion 105d. The third portion 105c has a third diameter d3 that is greater than the first and second diameters d1, d2. After the third diameter d3, the hole returns to the first diameter d1 and the first portion 105a. Note that the second diameter d2 is greater than the first diameter d1 and less than the third diameter d3.

[0046] In the free state of the ratchet clamp 130, the diameter of the curved portion 131 is larger than the first diameter d1 of the hole 105 in the body 103 of the movable tensioner housing 102 and smaller than the third diameter d3 (see Figure 4 ).

[0047] It should be noted that the tensioner body has a cutout 107 at the location of the groove (see Figure 5 and 8 ) to allow ratchet legs 132 to extend outwardly therefrom, thereby allowing manual operation of the ratchet clamp 130. The cutout 107 in the body 103 of the movable tensioner housing 102 has a milled or rolled edge 108 to prevent the ratchet clamp 130 from rotating within the bore 105 of the movable tensioner housing 102 and about the hollow sleeve 110.

[0048] The engagement of the ratchet clip 130 with the circumferential teeth 111 of the hollow sleeve 110 in conjunction with the aperture 105 of the movable tensioner housing 102 guides movement of the movable tensioner housing 102 relative to the fixed hollow sleeve 110 , thereby allowing the hollow sleeve 110 to extend from the movable tensioner housing 102 .

[0049] The spring 140 is disposed adjacent to the second end 103b of the body 103 of the movable tensioner housing 102 and surrounds the outer circumference 110c of the hollow sleeve 110 extending from the second end 103b of the body 103. Figure 4As shown, the first end 140a of the spring 140 engages with the shoulder 106 of the radially extending flange 104, and the second end 140b of the spring 140 engages with the anti-rotation washer 150, which engages with the second end 110b of the hollow sleeve 110. The spring 140 surrounds the outer circumference 110c of the hollow sleeve 110 between the anti-rotation washer 150 and the second end 103b of the movable tensioner housing 102. The spring 140 biases the movable tensioner housing 102 toward the first end 110a of the hollow sleeve 110. The spring 140 is preferably as shown in FIG. Fig.12 Coil spring shown.

[0050] Reference Fig.11 The anti-rotation washer 150 has a body 151 defining an aperture 152 that receives the second end 110b of the hollow sleeve 110. The anti-rotation washer 150 is preferably press-fit onto the second end 110b of the hollow sleeve 110.

[0051] See also Figure 4 and Figure 13-17 , the collar 160 has a semicircular body 161 having a first end 161a and a second end 161b and two axially extending flanges 162 extending from the first end 161a to the second end 161b. The semicircular body 161 defines an inner circumference 161c. The two axially extending flanges 162 define a cutout 163. The cutout 163 may have a milled edge portion 166. Along each axially extending flange 162 is a ridge 164. Extending radially from the semicircular body 161 is a collar tab 165. There is a length between the collar tab 165 and the cutout 163.

[0052] Figure 30a-30b The different lengths between the collar tab 165 and the cutout 163 of the collar 160 are shown. The length L3 ( Fig.30b ) is less than the length L2( Fig.30a ) and length L1( Fig.16 By changing the length between the collar tab 165 and the collar cutout 163, the position of the collar 160 relative to the screw 175 and the distance between the movable housing and the anti-rotation washer 150 are changed.

[0053] For example, if the length L2 between the collar tab 165 and the cutout 163 is larger, such as Fig.30a As shown, the distance between the anti-rotation washer and the bottom of the hole 176 is less than if a collar having a length L3 is used, as shown in FIG. Fig.30b Alternatively, the length of the axially extending flange 162 may be increased.

[0054] The collar 160 replaces the function of a conventional shipping pin and serves as a conventional shipping pin. The collar 160 is received at the first end 110a of the hollow sleeve 110 so that the first end 161a of the semicircular body 161 of the collar 160 engages at least with the delivery groove 114 of the hollow sleeve 110. The semicircular body 161 of the collar 160 between the first end 161a and the second end 161b is adjacent to at least some of the circumferential teeth 111 of the hollow sleeve 110. Fig.19 As shown, the two axially extending flanges 162 engage the first end 103 a of the movable tensioner housing 102 .

[0055] The automatic mechanical tensioner assembly 100 has a shipping and installation position in which the automatic mechanical tensioner assembly 100 is locked in place and rendered immovable. The shipping and installation position allows for easier installation into a chain drive system, especially in a smaller packaging space. In the shipping and installation position, the collar 160 engages the delivery groove 114 of the hollow sleeve 110, thereby moving the movable tensioner housing 102 to a position in which the spring 140 is compressed.

[0056] In one embodiment, the shipping and installation positions are maintained by engagement of the collar 160 with the delivery groove 114 at the first end 110 a of the hollow sleeve 110 and the circumferential teeth 111 and the stop grooves 112 on the outer circumference 110 c of the hollow sleeve 110 .

[0057] See also Figure 21a-21b To install the automatic mechanical tensioner assembly 100 into a chain drive system, in the shipping and installation position, the automatic mechanical tensioner assembly 100 without the tensioner face 250 is dropped into the hole 176 in the chain drive system (see Fig.21a The automatic mechanical tensioner assembly 100 is assembled with a movable tensioner housing 102 surrounding a hollow sleeve 110, a collar 160 engaging with a delivery groove 114 of the hollow sleeve 110, a spring 140 biasing the movable tensioner housing 102, and an associated anti-rotation washer 150 receiving a second end 110b of the hollow sleeve 110. The ratchet clip 130 engages with the stop groove 112 of the hollow sleeve 110.

[0058] The screw 175 then drops into the hole 176 and engages within the inner bore 113 of the hollow sleeve 110 and stabilizes the automatic mechanical tensioner assembly 100 in place.

[0059] Next, the tensioner face 250 is mounted to the radially extending flange 104 of the movable housing 102, as shown in FIG. Figure 21b shown.

[0060] The automatic mechanical tensioner assembly 100 is then pre-tensioned. After the automatic mechanical tensioner assembly 100 is pre-tensioned, the collar 160 is removed by grasping and pulling the collar tab 165 of the collar 160 to disengage the collar 160 from the delivery groove 114 on the hollow sleeve 110, so that the movable tensioner housing 102 is biased by the spring 140 toward the first end 110a of the hollow sleeve 110 and is in a position as shown in FIG. Fig.22a The operating position is shown in 22a (with tensioner face 250 removed for clarity) and 22b (with tensioner face 250 in place).

[0061] Reference Figure 18-19 23, in another embodiment, the transport and installation positions are maintained by a push release mechanism. In this embodiment, the hollow sleeve 210 is the same as the hollow sleeve 110, but the delivery groove 114 no longer exists, and the hollow sleeve 210 includes a mounting groove 214, the mounting groove 214 has a first mounting edge 214a and a second mounting edge 214b, the second mounting edge 214b is adjacent to the second end 210b of the hollow sleeve 210, and the retaining clip 285 engages the transport installation housing groove 278 at the second end 210b.

[0062] The hollow sleeve 210 has a first end 210a and a second end 210b, and has a series of circumferential teeth 211 on its outer circumference 210c extending a certain length between the first end 210a and the second end 210b. At least one circumferential tooth is a stop groove 212. The circumferential teeth 211 are formed and spaced to receive the ratchet clip 130. The circumferential teeth 211 and the stop grooves 212 are inclined toward the second end 210b of the hollow sleeve 210. In this embodiment, the circumferential teeth 211 and the stop grooves 212 are adjacent to the first end 210a of the hollow sleeve 210. The hollow sleeve 210 defines an inner bore 213 having at least one diameter along the central axis CC. The inner bore 213 of the hollow sleeve 210 receives a threaded screw (not shown).

[0063] The movable tensioner housing 202 has a body 203 connected to a radially extending flange 204. The body 203 has a first end 203a and a second end 203b and defines a hole 205 coaxial with the hollow sleeve along a central axis CC and surrounding at least a portion of the hollow sleeve. The hole 205 extends from the first end 203a of the body 203 to the second end 203b. The radially extending flange 204 is perpendicular to the hole 205 defined by the body 203 of the movable tensioner housing 202 and receives a tensioner face (not shown). Within the hole 205 of the body 203 is a ratchet clip groove 209, which includes a series of diameters that vary depending on the portion of the hole 205. The ratchet clip groove 209 includes a first portion 205a located at the first end 203a, a second portion 205b, a transition portion 205d, and a third portion 205c. As in the first embodiment and Fig. 9As shown, the first diameter d1 of the hole 205 exists at the proximal end of the hole and corresponds to the first portion 205a. Proximate to the first portion 205a is a second portion 205b having a second diameter d2. The second portion 205b is connected to the third portion 205c by a transition portion 205d. The third portion 205c has a third diameter d3 that is greater than the first and second diameters d1, d2. After the third diameter d3, the hole returns to the first diameter d1 and the first portion 205a. Note that the second diameter d2 is greater than the first diameter d1 and less than the third diameter d3.

[0064] A shipping mount housing recess 278 is formed within the bore 205 of the movable tensioner housing body 203 .

[0065] The transport mounting housing groove 278 is formed by a first inclined portion 270 connected to the first undercut groove 280, a first edge 282, a second undercut groove 281, a second edge 283, a fourth portion 275, and a second inclined portion 276. The first inclined portion 270 is connected to the second portion 271, and the second portion 271 is connected to the first rounded seat 272, which can receive the retaining clip 285 when the retaining clip 285 is disengaged from the delivery groove 114. The second portion 271 and the first rounded seat 272 form the first undercut groove 280. Between the first undercut groove 280 and the third portion 273 is the first edge 282. The first rounded seat 272 is connected to the third portion 273. The third portion 273 is connected to the second rounded seat 274. The third portion 273 and the second rounded seat 274 form the second undercut groove 281. Between the second undercut groove 281 and the fourth portion 275 is the second mounting edge 283. The second radiused seat 274 is connected to a fourth portion 275 which is connected to a second angled portion 276 aligned with the second end 203b of the movable tensioner housing body 203. The second portion 271, the third portion 273 and the fourth portion 275 are preferably parallel to the hollow sleeve 210.

[0066] In the free state of the ratchet clip 130 or the retaining clip 285 , the diameter of the curved portion 131 is greater than the first diameter d1 and less than the third diameter d3 of the bore 205 in the body 203 of the movable tensioner housing 202 .

[0067] It should be noted that the tensioner body has a cutout 207 at the location of the groove (see Figure 5 and 8 ) to allow the ratchet clamp legs 132 to extend outwardly therefrom, thereby allowing manual operation of the ratchet clamp 130. The cutout 207 in the body 203 of the movable tensioner housing 202 has a milled or rolled edge 208.

[0068] The engagement of the ratchet clip 130 with the circumferential teeth 211 of the hollow sleeve 210 in conjunction with the aperture 205 of the movable tensioner housing 202 guides movement of the movable tensioner housing 202 relative to the fixed hollow sleeve 210 , thereby allowing the hollow sleeve 210 to extend from the movable tensioner housing 202 .

[0069] The spring 140 is adjacent to the second end 203 b of the body 203 of the movable tensioner housing 202 and surrounds an outer circumference 210 c of the hollow sleeve 210 extending from the second end 203 b of the body 203 .

[0070] like Fig.19 As shown, the first end 140a of the spring 140 engages with the shoulder 206 of the radially extending flange 204, and the second end 140b of the spring 140 engages with the anti-rotation washer 150, which engages with the second end 210b of the hollow sleeve 210. The spring 140 surrounds the outer circumference 210c of the hollow sleeve 210 between the anti-rotation washer 150 and the second end 203b of the movable tensioner housing 202. The spring 140 biases the movable tensioner housing 202 toward the first end 210a of the hollow sleeve 210. The spring 140 is preferably as shown in FIG. Fig.12 Coil spring shown.

[0071] Reference Fig.11 The anti-rotation washer 150 has a body 151 defining an aperture 152 that receives the second end 210b of the hollow sleeve 210. The anti-rotation washer 150 is preferably press-fit onto the second end 210b of the hollow sleeve 210.

[0072] In the shipping and installation position, the retaining clip 285 resides between the first mounting edge 214a of the mounting groove 214 on the hollow sleeve 210 and the second mounting edge 283 of the second undercut groove 281 in the movable tensioner housing 202, so that the first mounting edge 214a and the second mounting edge 283 engage the ratchet clip 130 and the wedge. When the retaining clip 285 is in this position, the movable tensioner housing 202 is locked in place and the spring 140 is compressed.

[0073] After the automatic mechanical tensioner assembly 100 is installed into the chain drive system in the transport and installation position, the movable tensioner housing 202 is moved so that the retaining clip 285 can travel along the hole 205 of the movable tensioner housing 202 and move into the first undercut groove 280, wherein the movable tensioner housing 202 can slide relative to the hollow sleeve 210 without interference from the retaining clip 285.

[0074] To install the automatic mechanical tensioner assembly 200 into a chain drive system, the automatic mechanical tensioner assembly 200 without the tensioner face 250 is dropped into the hole 176 in the chain drive system in the shipping and installation position. The automatic mechanical tensioner assembly 200 is assembled with a movable tensioner housing 202 surrounding a hollow sleeve 210, a collar 160 engaged with a mounting groove 214 of the hollow sleeve 210, a spring 140 biasing the movable tensioner housing 202, and an associated anti-rotation washer 150 receiving a second end 210b of the hollow sleeve 210. The ratchet clip 130 engages with the stop groove 212 of the hollow sleeve 210. The retaining clip 285 engages between the mounting groove 214 and the second undercut groove 281.

[0075] The screw 175 then drops into the hole 176 and engages within the inner bore 213 of the hollow sleeve 210 and stabilizes the automatic mechanical tensioner assembly 200 in place.

[0076] Next, the tensioner face 250 is mounted onto the radially extending flange 204 of the movable tensioner housing body 203 .

[0077] The automatic mechanical tensioner assembly 200 is then pre-tensioned. After the automatic mechanical tensioner assembly 200 is pre-tensioned, the collar 160 is removed by grasping and pulling the collar tab 165 of the collar 160 to disengage the collar 160 from the mounting groove 214 on the hollow sleeve 210. After the collar 160 is disengaged from the mounting groove 214, the hollow sleeve is pushed toward the anti-rotation washer 150, which causes the retaining clip 285 to slide into the mounting groove 214 and travel upward into the first undercut groove 280 and deposit therein, where the retaining clip 285 remains when the automatic mechanical tensioner assembly 200 is in the working position and tensioning the chain or belt.

[0078] Fig.24 and 25 A cross-sectional view of another alternative embodiment of an automatic mechanical tensioner assembly 300 is shown in which the hollow sleeve 310 does not have a plurality of grooves. The hollow sleeve 310 has a body 310d having a first end 310a, a second end 310b, and an outer circumference 310c. In this embodiment, a delivery groove 314 is adjacent to the first end 310a, but no additional grooves are present on the outer circumference 310c of the body 310d of the hollow sleeve 310. The delivery groove 314 receives the collar 160. The hollow sleeve 310 defines an inner bore 313 having at least one diameter along the central axis CC. The inner bore 313 of the hollow sleeve 310 receives the threaded screw 175.

[0079] The movable tensioner housing 302 has a body 303 connected to a radially extending flange 304. The body 303 has a first end 303a and a second end 303b and defines a hole 305 coaxial with the hollow sleeve 310 along the central axis CC and surrounding at least a portion of the hollow sleeve 310. The hole 305 extends from the first end 303a to the second end 303b of the body 303. The radially extending flange 304 is perpendicular to the hole 305 defined by the body 303 of the movable tensioner housing 302 and receives a tensioner face (not shown).

[0080] The spring 140 is proximate to the second end 303b of the body 303 of the movable tensioner housing 302 and surrounds the outer circumference 310c of the hollow sleeve 310 extending from the second end 303b of the body 303. The first end 140a of the spring 140 engages with the shoulder 306 of the radially extending flange 304, and the second end 140b of the spring 140 engages with the anti-rotation washer 150, which engages with the second end 310b of the hollow sleeve 310. The spring 140 surrounds the outer circumference 310c of the hollow sleeve 310 between the anti-rotation washer 150 and the second end 303b of the movable tensioner housing 302. The spring 140 biases the movable tensioner housing 302 toward the first end 310a of the hollow sleeve 310. The spring 140 is preferably as shown in FIG. Fig.12 Coil spring shown.

[0081] Fig.26a An alternative hollow sleeve with a flange is shown. The hollow sleeve 410 has a body 410d having a first end 410a, a second end 410b and an outer circumference 410c. The outer circumference 410c has a plurality of grooves 411 and a delivery groove adjacent to the first end 410a. The delivery groove 414 receives the collar 160. The hollow sleeve 410 defines an inner bore 413. The inner bore 413 of the hollow sleeve 410 receives the threaded screw 175. At the second end 410b of the hollow sleeve is a flange 415. The hollow sleeve 410 can replace the hollow sleeves 110, 210.

[0082] Figure 26b Shows Fig.26a An alternative hollow sleeve is provided in which the anti-rotation washer 150 is proximate to and used in conjunction with the flange 415 .

[0083] Fig. 27A tensioner assembly is shown installed in a chain drive system with the collar removed and the tensioner face removed, wherein the tensioner assembly is in an operating position wherein the cutout 507 of the movable housing 502 is rotated ninety degrees relative to the movable tensioner housing 102. In this embodiment, the hollow sleeve 110 is rotated so that the first end 110a is close to and adjacent to the anti-rotation washer 150. In this embodiment, the delivery groove 514 is moved to the second end 110b to accommodate the collar 160. The movable housing 502 has a body 503 having a first end 503a and a second end 503b, the second end 503b defining a cutout 507 and a hole 505 at the second end 503b. The body 503 is connected to a radially extending flange 504 for receiving a tensioner face (not shown). In this embodiment, the radially extending flange 504 is located in the same plane as the cutout 507.

[0084] Within the hole 176 of the chain drive system is a rod 175 received within the inner bore 113 of the hollow sleeve 110. Surrounding the hollow sleeve 110 is the movable housing 502. The ratchet clip engages the circumferential teeth 111 within the cutout 507. The spring 140 is located between the first end 503a of the body 503 and the anti-rotation washer 150.

[0085] Fig.28 The tensioner assembly is shown installed in a chain drive system with the collar removed and the tensioner face removed, wherein the tensioner assembly is in an operating position with the cutout 707 of the movable housing 702 adjacent the anti-rotation washer 150 or spring 140. The cutout 707 is rotated 90 degrees compared to the movable housing 502.

[0086] In this embodiment, the hollow sleeve 110 is rotated so that the first end 110a is close to and adjacent to the anti-rotation washer 150. The delivery groove 714 moves to the second end 110b to accommodate the collar 160. The movable housing 702 has a body 703 having a first end 703a and a second end 703b, defining a cutout 707 and a hole 705 at the second end 703b. The body 703 is connected to a radially extending flange 704 for receiving a tensioner face (not shown). In this embodiment, the radially extending flange 704 and the cutout 707 are in different planes.

[0087] Within the hole 176 of the chain drive system is a screw 175 received within the inner bore 113 of the hollow sleeve 110. Surrounding the hollow sleeve 110 is the movable housing 702. The ratchet clip engages with the circumferential teeth 111 within the cutout 707. The spring 140 is located between the first end 703a of the body 703 and the anti-rotation washer 150.

[0088] Fig.29Another alternative automatic mechanical tensioner assembly 600 within the chain drive system is shown wherein a delivery pin 610 is present and inserted into the removable tensioner housing 602. The automatic mechanical tensioner assembly 600 is mounted within an aperture or hole 176 of a chain drive case 177 which houses a chain drive system having a chain across a driven sprocket and a drive sprocket.

[0089] The automatic mechanical tensioner assembly 600 has a hollow sleeve 110 having a first end 110a and a second end 110b, and having a series of circumferential teeth 111 on its outer circumference 110c extending a length between the first end 110a and the second end 110b. At least one of the circumferential teeth is a stop groove 112. The circumferential teeth 111 are formed and spaced to receive a ratchet clip 130. The circumferential teeth 111 and the stop groove 112 are inclined toward the second end 110b of the hollow sleeve 110. In one embodiment, the circumferential teeth 111 and the stop groove 112 are adjacent to the first end 110a of the hollow sleeve 110. Alternatively, the circumferential teeth 111 and the stop groove 112 are adjacent to the second end 110b of the hollow sleeve 110.

[0090] The hollow sleeve 110 defines an inner bore 113. The inner bore 113 of the hollow sleeve 110 receives the threaded screw 175. A delivery groove 114 is also provided along the outer circumference 110c adjacent the first end 110a and is sized to receive the collar 160. The ratchet clamp 130 engages with the circumferential teeth 111 of the hollow sleeve 110.

[0091] The movable tensioner housing 602 has a body 603 connected to a radially extending flange 604. The body 603 has a first end 603a and a second end 603b and defines a bore 605 coaxial with the hollow sleeve 110 and surrounds at least a portion of the hollow sleeve 110. The bore 605 extends from the first end 603a to the second end 603b of the body 603. The radially extending flange 604 is perpendicular to the bore 605 defined by the body 603 of the movable tensioner housing 602 and receives a tensioner face (not shown). Within the bore 605 of the body 603 is a ratchet clip groove 609.

[0092] The body 603 has a cutout 607 at the location of the recess to allow the ratchet clamp legs 132 to extend outwardly therefrom, thereby enabling manual operation of the ratchet clamp 130 .

[0093] The engagement of the ratchet clip 130 with the circumferential teeth 111 of the hollow sleeve 110 in conjunction with the aperture 605 of the movable tensioner housing 602 guides movement of the movable tensioner housing 602 relative to the fixed hollow sleeve 110 , thereby allowing the hollow sleeve 110 to extend from the movable tensioner housing 602 .

[0094] The spring 140 is proximate to the second end 603b of the body 603 of the movable tensioner housing 602 and surrounds the outer circumference 110c of the hollow sleeve 110 extending from the second end 603b of the body 603. The first end 140a of the spring 140 engages with the shoulder 606 of the radially extending flange 604, and the second end 140b of the spring 140 engages with the anti-rotation washer 150, which engages with the second end 110b of the hollow sleeve 110. The spring 140 surrounds the outer circumference 110c of the hollow sleeve 110 between the anti-rotation washer 150 and the second end 603b of the movable tensioner housing 602. The spring 140 biases the movable tensioner housing 602 toward the first end 110a of the hollow sleeve 110. The removable tensioner housing 602 additionally has an aperture 611 between the first and second ends for receiving a delivery pin 610 when the automatic mechanical tensioner assembly 100 is in the shipping and installation position.

[0095] The anti-rotation washer 150 receives the second end 110 b of the hollow sleeve 110 .

[0096] The collar 160 is received at the first end 110a of the hollow sleeve 110 and engages with the delivery groove 114 of the hollow sleeve 110. The two axially extending flanges 162 engage with the first end 603a of the movable tensioner housing 602.

[0097] The automatic mechanical tensioner assembly 600 has a shipping and installation position in which the automatic mechanical tensioner assembly 600 is locked in place and becomes immovable. In the shipping and installation position, the collar 160 engages the delivery groove 114 of the hollow sleeve 110, thereby moving the movable tensioner housing 602 to a position in which the spring 140 is compressed.

[0098] The shipping and installation position is maintained by the engagement of the collar 160 with the delivery groove 114 at the first end 110a of the hollow sleeve 110, the insertion of the delivery pin 610 with the aperture 611 of the movable tensioner housing 602, and the circumferential teeth 111 and the stop groove 112 on the outer circumference 110c of the hollow sleeve 110. It should be noted that the delivery pin 610 passes through the chain drive housing 177 from the rear of the housing to engage with the aperture 611 of the movable tensioner housing 602.

[0099] To install the automatic mechanical tensioner assembly 600 into a chain drive system, the automatic mechanical tensioner assembly 600 without the tensioner face 250 is dropped into the hole 176 in the chain drive housing 177 in the shipping and installation position. The automatic mechanical tensioner assembly 600 is assembled with the movable tensioner housing 102 surrounding the hollow sleeve 110, the collar 160 engaging the delivery groove 114 of the hollow sleeve 110, the spring 140 biasing the movable tensioner housing 102, and the associated anti-rotation washer 150 receiving the second end 110b of the hollow sleeve 110. The ratchet clip 130 engages the stop groove 112 of the hollow sleeve 110.

[0100] The screw 175 then drops into the hole 176 and engages within the inner bore 113 of the hollow sleeve 110 and stabilizes the automatic mechanical tensioner assembly 600 in place.

[0101] Next, the tensioner face 250 is mounted to the radially extending flange 604 of the movable housing 602 .

[0102] The automatic mechanical tensioner assembly 600 is then pre-tensioned. After the automatic mechanical tensioner assembly 600 is pre-tensioned, the collar 160 is removed by grasping and pulling the collar tab 165 of the collar 160 to disengage the collar 160 from the delivery groove 114 on the hollow sleeve 110, and the delivery pin 610 is inserted into the holes 611 of the movable tensioner housing 602 and the chain drive housing 177. The use of the delivery pin 610 allows the tensioner to be installed where the cover on the chain drive housing 177 can not be removed. Once the delivery pin 610 is removed from the hole 611, the movable tensioner housing 602 is biased toward the first end 110a of the hollow sleeve 110 by the spring 140 and is in the working position.

[0103] It should be noted that in any of the above embodiments, although one anti-rotation washer 150 is shown, more than one anti-rotation washer may be used and stacked on top of each other.

[0104] It should be understood, therefore, that the embodiments of the invention described herein are merely illustrative of the application of the principles of the invention. Reference herein to details of the illustrated embodiments is not intended to limit the scope of the claims, which themselves recite those features regarded as essential to the invention.

Claims

1. An automatic mechanical tensioner assembly, comprising: a hollow sleeve having a first end and a second end, an inner bore extending from the first end to the second end, and an outer circumference including a delivery groove; a movable housing having a body having a first end and a second end and a flange extending axially therefrom, the body defining a bore for receiving the hollow sleeve and a cutout; an anti-rotation washer including a body defining an aperture for receiving the second end of the hollow sleeve; a spring between the movable housing and the anti-rotation washer, the spring biasing the movable housing toward the first end of the hollow sleeve; and a collar comprising a semicircular body defining an inner circumference extending from a first end to a second end of the semicircular body, the semicircular body including two axially extending flanges defining a cutout, and a collar tab extending radially from the semicircular body; wherein the inner circumference of the collar receives the plurality of circumferential teeth and the delivery groove; Wherein in the shipping and installation position, the first end of the collar engages with the delivery groove of the hollow sleeve, thereby biasing the movable housing towards the anti-rotation washer and compressing the spring.

2. The automatic mechanical tensioner assembly of claim 1, further comprising: a plurality of circumferential teeth on the outer circumference of the hollow sleeve; the aperture of the movable housing including a ratchet clip slot adjacent the first end of the body; as well as A ratchet clip is received within the ratchet clip slot of the movable housing and is engageable with the plurality of circumferential teeth of the hollow sleeve.

3. The automatic mechanical tensioner assembly of claim 2, wherein the ratchet clip slot includes a first portion of a first diameter at a first end of the body, the first portion connected to a second portion of a second diameter, and the second portion connected to a third portion of a third diameter via a transition portion.

4. The automatic mechanical tensioner assembly of claim 1 wherein said movable housing further comprises a shoulder at a second end of said body that engages said spring.

5. The automatic mechanical tensioner assembly of claim 1, wherein the flange is perpendicular to the aperture of the movable housing.

6. The automatic mechanical tensioner assembly of claim 1, wherein each of the two axially extending flanges of the collar further comprises a ridge extending from the first end to the second end of the semicircular body.

7. The automatic mechanical tensioner assembly of claim 1, wherein the cutout of the collar has a milled or rolled edge.

8. The automatic mechanical tensioner assembly of claim 1 wherein said collar tab is aligned with a flange of said movable housing in said shipping and installation positions.

9. The automatic mechanical tensioner assembly of claim 1, wherein the cutout of the movable housing is not aligned with the flange of the movable housing.

10. The automatic mechanical tensioner assembly of claim 1, wherein the cutout of the movable housing is aligned with the flange of the movable housing.

11. The automatic mechanical tensioner assembly of claim 1 , wherein the delivery groove is adjacent the first end of the hollow sleeve.

12. The automatic mechanical tensioner assembly of claim 2, wherein the delivery groove is adjacent the first end of the hollow sleeve.

13. The automatic mechanical tensioner assembly of claim 2, wherein the delivery groove is adjacent the second end of the hollow sleeve.

14. The automatic mechanical tensioner assembly of claim 13, wherein the cutout of the movable housing is not aligned with the flange of the movable housing.

15. The automatic mechanical tensioner assembly of claim 13, wherein the cutout of the movable housing is aligned with the flange of the movable housing.

16. The automatic mechanical tensioner assembly of claim 2, wherein the second end of the hollow sleeve further comprises a flange.

17. The automatic mechanical tensioner assembly of claim 16, wherein said anti-rotation washer is positioned proximate said flange at said second end of said hollow sleeve.

18. An automatic mechanical tensioner assembly comprising: a hollow sleeve having a first end and a second end, an inner bore extending from the first end to the second end, and an outer circumference including a plurality of circumferential teeth, and a mounting groove having a first mounting groove edge and a second mounting groove edge defined on the outer circumference adjacent to the second end; a movable housing having a body and a flange extending axially therefrom, the body having a first end and a second end, the body defining a bore extending from the first end to the second end and including a ratchet clip slot adjacent the first end of the body and a transport mount housing recess adjacent the second end of the body, the transport mount housing recess including a first undercut recess, a first housing recess edge and a second undercut recess and a second housing recess edge, wherein the bore of the movable housing receives the hollow sleeve; a ratchet clip received within the ratchet clip slot of the movable housing and engageable with the plurality of circumferential teeth of the hollow sleeve; a retaining clip received within the transport mounting housing recess and / or the mounting recess of the hollow sleeve; an anti-rotation washer including a body defining an aperture for receiving the second end of the hollow sleeve; as well as a spring between the movable housing and the anti-rotation washer, the spring biasing the movable housing toward the first end of the hollow sleeve; wherein in the transport and installation position, the retaining clip engages a first mounting groove edge of the mounting groove of the hollow sleeve and a second housing groove edge of the movable housing; and Wherein in the operating position, the retaining clip engages the first undercut groove and the first housing groove edge.

19. The automatic mechanical tensioner assembly of claim 18, wherein the ratchet clip slot includes a first portion of a first diameter at a first end of the body, the first portion connected to a second portion of a second diameter, and the second portion connected to a third portion of a third diameter via a transition portion.

20. The automatic mechanical tensioner assembly of claim 18, wherein said movable housing further comprises a shoulder at a second end of said body that engages said spring.

21. The automatic mechanical tensioner assembly of claim 18, wherein the flange is perpendicular to the aperture of the movable housing.

22. A method of installing an automatic mechanical tensioner assembly, comprising: The automatic mechanical tensioner assembly is inserted into the hole in the chain drive system in the transport and installation position, and the automatic mechanical tensioner assembly includes: a hollow sleeve having a first end and a second end, an inner hole extending from the first end to the second end, and an outer circumference including a plurality of circumferential teeth, and a delivery groove adjacent to the plurality of circumferential teeth and the first end; a movable housing having a main body and a flange extending axially therefrom, the main body having a first end and a second end, the main body defining a hole, the hole including a ratchet clamp groove adjacent to the first end of the main body, wherein the hole receives the hollow sleeve; a ratchet clamp received in the ratchet clamp groove of the movable housing and engageable with the plurality of circumferential teeth of the hollow sleeve. an anti-rotation washer including a body defining an aperture for receiving the second end of the hollow sleeve; a spring between the movable housing and the anti-rotation washer, the spring biasing the movable housing toward the first end of the hollow sleeve; a collar including a semicircular body defining an inner circumference extending from the first end to the second end of the semicircular body, the semicircular body including two axially extending flanges defining a cutout, and a collar tab extending radially from the semicircular body, wherein in the shipping and installation position, the first end of the collar engages with the delivery groove of the hollow sleeve, biasing the movable housing toward the anti-rotation washer and compressing the spring; inserting a screw into the hole of the chain drive and the inner hole of the hollow sleeve; mounting the tensioner face to a radially extending flange of a movable housing of the automatic mechanical tensioner, the automatic mechanical tensioner being mounted within a bore of the chain drive; pre-tensioning the automatic mechanical tensioner assembly; and The collar is removed by disengaging it from the delivery groove on the hollow sleeve, which places the automatic mechanical tensioner in an operating position.

23. The method of claim 22, wherein in the transport and installation position the inner circumference of the collar receives a plurality of circumferential teeth and delivery grooves.

24. An automatic mechanical tensioner assembly comprising: a hollow sleeve having a first end and a second end, an inner bore extending from the first end to the second end, and an outer circumference including a plurality of circumferential teeth, and a delivery groove adjacent the plurality of circumferential teeth and the first end; a movable housing having a body and a flange extending axially from the body, the body having a first end and a second end, the body defining a bore including a ratchet clip slot adjacent the first end of the body, wherein the bore receives the hollow sleeve and the pin bore; a ratchet clip received within the ratchet clip slot of the movable housing and engageable with the plurality of circumferential teeth of the hollow sleeve; an anti-rotation washer including a body defining an aperture for receiving the second end of the hollow sleeve; a spring between the movable housing and the anti-rotation washer, the spring biasing the movable housing toward the first end of the hollow sleeve; and a pin receivable within the pin hole of the movable housing; a collar comprising a semicircular body defining an inner circumference extending from a first end to a second end of the semicircular body, the semicircular body including two axially extending flanges defining a cutout, and a collar tab extending radially from the semicircular body; wherein the inner circumference of the collar receives the plurality of circumferential teeth and the delivery groove; Wherein in the transport and installation position, the first end of the collar engages with the delivery groove of the hollow sleeve, biasing the movable shell toward the anti-rotation washer and compressing the spring, and the pin is received in the pin hole of the movable shell, thereby holding the movable shell in a stationary position.

25. The automatic mechanical tensioner assembly of claim 24, wherein the pin is received through a chain drive housing in which the automatic mechanical tensioner assembly is mounted.

Images