Non-metallic silent chain
AssigneeWinfred M. Berg, Inc.
InventorWinfred M. Berg
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A toothed transmission chain or belt is described for use in coupling spaced sprockets or gears. The chain is formed of molded polyurethane or other plastic having sprocket engaging teeth molded onto a supporting unitary molded backing. The molded portion is reinforced by one or more metal cables which are embedded in the molded plastic portion. An improved engagement with the sprockets is provided for by providing lateral slots in the chain teeth thereby giving them variable width. Additionally, the chain may be furnished or originally formed in indeterminate lengths and then fashioned into an endless chain by exposing and splicing together the ends of the steel reinforcing cables.
Claims5
A composite drive chain for coupling with toothed sprockets comprising the combination of an elongated unitary molded plastic body portion, projecting flanges at the two opposite edges of said plastic body portion, spaced sprocket engaging teeth extending outwardly from said plastic body portion, said sprocket engaging teeth having rounded sprocket engaging surfaces at their outer ends, said sprocket engaging teeth being spaced from both of said flanges and having a height above said plastic body portion substantially greater than the height of said flanges, a plurality of metallic cables embedded longitudinally in said plastic body portion at said flanges, and said sprocket engaging teeth having central outwardly flared lateral slots and extending a substantial portion of the height of the sprocket engaging teeth for providing a resilient fit with the sprocket teeth.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.