An actuator for transmitting an input force in a first direction from an input mechanism to a force in a second direction at an output mechanism. The actuator may be incorporated into a tensioner for tensioning a belt. The device includes a plurality of aligned spherical elements in a curved raceway. The input mechanism transmits force to a first of the series of spherical elements. The spherical elements are substantially incompressible so that the series of spherical elements transmits the force along the curved raceway from the input mechanism to the output mechanism.

The invention relates to a belt-tensioning device comprising a tensioning device for generating a force for tensioning a belt in a belt drive; a measuring device for measuring a belt tension or a measurement variable corresponding to the belt tension; and an adjustment device for adjusting the force generated by the tensioning device based on signals of the measuring device.

An actuator for transmitting an input force in a first direction from an input mechanism to a force in a second direction at an output mechanism. The actuator may be incorporated into a tensioner for tensioning a belt. The device includes a plurality of aligned spherical elements in a curved raceway. The input mechanism transmits force to a first of the series of spherical elements. The spherical elements are substantially incompressible so that the series of spherical elements transmits the force along the curved raceway from the input mechanism to the output mechanism.

A belt drive has a drive gear, an output gear, a tensioning gear, and at least two belts. Each belt partly loops the drive gear and the output gear, and a strand of each belt partly loops the tensioning gear. A strand of a first belt loops the tensioning gear in one circumferential direction. This strand extends from the drive gear to the output gear. A strand of a second belt loops the tensioning gear in the other circumferential direction. This strand extends from the drive gear to the output gear. This belt drive achieves a large looping angle for the drive gear and the output gear, and correspondingly, a large transmission power. Additionally, the effect of the other belt enables a belt self-tensioning function which is independent of the rotational direction. Guiding the belts in this manner enables omission of an additional mounting of the tensioning gear.

A belt tensioning apparatus for use in tensioning a belt driven drive system having a motor and belt driven member. The arrangement provides a mounting member with a belt tensioning member operatively connected thereto for applying adjustable tension to a belt when positioned about the motor and belt driven member. An actuator connected to the belt tensioning member allows for movement of the belt tensioning member. A tension operating zone member operable with the actuator is used to alert a user when belt tension is optimal, requires adjustment or is prohibitive.

The invention relates to a belt-tensioning device comprising a tensioning device for generating a force for tensioning a belt in a belt drive; a measuring device for measuring a belt tension or a measurement variable corresponding to the belt tension; and an adjustment device for adjusting the force generated by the tensioning device based on signals of the measuring device.