Machine element or mechanism – Control lever and linkage systems – Hand operated
Reexamination Certificate
2000-04-18
2001-12-04
Hannon, Thomas R. (Department: 3682)
Machine element or mechanism
Control lever and linkage systems
Hand operated
Reexamination Certificate
active
06324936
ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a device for the tensioning of a cable used to control the activation of a drive and/or brake of a power equipment unit, such as a walk-behind snow thrower or power lawnmower.
2. Prior Art
Control cables are used in various types of power equipment for activating drive and/or brake connections in response to the operator's movement of a control handle. The cable extends between the control handle and the component being controlled.
In order to achieve proper control, the cable must be correctly tensioned. Because cable tension can vary during operation—as a result, for example, of the stretching of a drive belt—the cable tension must be adjusted. This typically is done periodically by manually changing the effective length of the cable between the control handle and the controlled component.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides an arrangement for automatically and continuously maintaining the correct tension of a control cable. A cantilevered spring is adjustably secured at its proximal end to a housing of a power equipment unit with which the cable is associated. The distal end of the spring engages the cable to apply spring force thereto thereby tensioning the cable as it removes slack. The proximal end of the spring is adjustably positioned on the housing so as to permit variance of the spring force applied to the cable.
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patent: 3364782 (1968-01-01), Freeland
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patent: 4523609 (1985-06-01), Weck
patent: 4798185 (1989-01-01), Driggers
patent: 4976054 (1990-12-01), Jones
patent: 5518097 (1996-05-01), Dabin
patent: 2025003 A (1980-01-01), None
Hannon Thomas R.
Joyce Kevin E.
Kim Chong H.
Murray Inc.
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