GB451225A - Improvements in and relating to flexible power transmission devices - Google Patents

Abstract

451,225. Bowden mechanism. BARBER, W. E., and WATTS, H. A., Royal Aircraft Establishment, South Farnborough, Hampshire. Jan. 31, 1935, No. 3155. [Class 80 (iii)] To reduce friction and render the mechanism more efficient, especially over long distances, spring means are connected to both ends of the flexible transmission member beyond the actuating and actuated devices so as to maintain it always under tension. The movable member 1, Fig. 1, slides in a casing 2 extending between an operating member 3 and an operated member 4, which may comprise gear wheels 3a, 4a, engaging projections on the inner member. The latter is continued at both ends beyond the wheels for connection to a spring 5 the other end which is anchored to a part rigid with the outer casing. The inner member may transmit tension only or both tension and compression. A tubular case 6, Fig. 2 is secured to the outer member 2 and has a number of slots 8 to provide an anchorage for a pin 9 to which the spring 5 is attached. In a modification, the single spring 5 is replaced by a number of springs. In a further modification the outer end of the spring is attached to a block adjustable by a screwed rod. Where the actuated end of the movable member is near the actuating end, as in Fig. 7, a single spring 5 may connect the adjacent ends. To facilitate passage of the inner member around corners, guide pulleys 15 may be employed. Specifications 243,041, [Class 80 (iii)], and 380,204 are referred to.