Belt Tensioner Pulley for a Traction Drive and Method for Manufacturing a Belt Tensioner Pulley

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention describes an improved belt tensioning roller for traction mechanisms (such as those used in machinery with belt drives). The roller features a ring element, at least part of which is made using additive manufacturing (e.g., 3D printing) and incorporates nanoparticles (for example, ceramic particles) in the additively manufactured sections. These nanoparticles are distributed inhomogeneously and serve to locally improve the wear resistance and hardness of the roller, especially in sections that are exposed to high stress. The patent also covers methods for manufacturing this component with the enhanced properties.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Belt tensioning rollers in industrial machinery, such as textile spinning or twisting machines
• Automotive timing belt or drive belt tensioners
• Heavy-duty conveyor systems needing long-life components
• Precision drive systems in robotics or automation that require low-maintenance belt tensioners
• Replacement parts manufacturing for legacy machinery with high wear rates

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Significantly increased wear resistance and surface hardness in critical areas due to nanoparticle reinforcement
• Ability to locally tailor material properties using additive manufacturing, optimizing both durability and flexibility
• Reduction in overall component weight by using lightweight materials like aluminum with reinforced surfaces
• Potential cost and material savings, as only critical regions require enhanced properties
• Greater design flexibility, enabling production of complex geometries and integration of advanced features not possible with conventional manufacturing
• Longer lifetime and reduced maintenance intervals for machinery employing these rollers

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a belt tensioning roller for a traction mechanism, comprising a ring element (1) with an outer circumferential surface (2), which is designed to receive a belt, and an inner circumferential surface (3), which is designed to receive a mounting, wherein at least one part (4) of the ring element (1) is additively manufactured, said additively manufactured part (4) of the ring element (1) having nanoparticles (5). The invention additionally relates to a method for producing such a belt tensioning roller.