Endless belt power transmission systems or components – Positive drive belt – Belt formed of rigid links
Reexamination Certificate
2005-05-10
2005-05-10
Charles, Marcus (Department: 3682)
Endless belt power transmission systems or components
Positive drive belt
Belt formed of rigid links
C474S218000, C059S078000, C059S084000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06890278
ABSTRACT:
A chain is provided in which adjacent links are attached to one another by a coupling pin that permits the links to rotate relative to one another on a connecting axis defined by a coupling pin. The links have movable link plates and can be fixed against relative rotation or released, at least on one side of the chain, by selectively engaging or disengaging the link plates. In one embodiment a restoring force urges movable link plates outwardly on both sides of the chain, toward locking engagement with the plates of the next adjacent links. The movable link plates are depressible against the restoring force, sufficiently to permit the adjacent link plates to overlap and pivot freely. The couplings between links can be switched between fixed and free rotational states by passing them through a path with converging walls that depress the movable link plates. The chain is particularly useful as a device for positioning a tool or manipulator, and in an embodiment with movable link plates on both sides is not only switchable between rigid and flexible but each pair of links is inherently compliant in the plane of its pivot pins.
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Charles Marcus
Duane Morris LLP
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