Chain tensioner force mechanism for internal combustion engine

Abstract

A tensioner force assembly for applying tension to an engine timing chain that changes the direction of the force acting on a chain tensioning arm such that the tensioner piston is oriented in parallel with the long axis of the crankshaft is provided. The tensioner assembly includes a crankshaft sprocket attached to the crankshaft, a cam shaft sprocket attached to the cam shaft, and a timing chain engaging the sprockets. A timing chain tensioner is pivotally attached to the engine block. A chain tensioner mechanism is provided that takes up timing chain slack. The chain tensioner mechanism includes a pivotable force transfer mechanism, a cylinder body having a long axis parallel to the long axis of the crankshaft, and a reciprocating tensioner piston in the body and engaged with the transfer mechanism for moving the transfer mechanism to apply required tension to the timing chain through the timing chain tensioner.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.