GB904724A - Improvements in or relating to tensiometers - Google Patents

Abstract

904,724. Tension indicators. GENERAL ELECTRIC CO. Ltd., and RICHES, W. April 12, 1961 [April 13, 1960], No. 13284/60. Class 106 (2). In a tension-measuring device, to be interposed in a rope or the like, in which deformation of a spring actuates an indicator means, means are provided to increase the resistance of the spring to deformation when the tension reaches a specified amount, higher tensions being then indicated on a reduced scale. As shown in Fig. 1, two U-shaped springs 16, 17 are linked by shafts 10, 11 which are drawn apart by rope tension applied to shackles 1, 2, thereby displacing racks 52, 53 to rotate pinion 51 and a calibrated drum 3 co-operating with a fixed pointer 5. When the tension reaches a predetermined value, the arms of the U-shaped springs will bear against rods 43, 58 and the springs will effectively stiffen. The rods 43, 58 are carried by bolts 36, 48 at either end, these bolts being, in turn, adjustably fixed to rods 35, 39 extending between two pairs of overlapping triangular plates 18, 19, fixed at their apex to bolts 10, 11. The base end of each plate has a slot for the free movement of the other bolt. Movement apart of the bolts 10, 11 thus increases overlap of the plates and draws the rods 43, 58 towards the arms of the U-shaped springs. At the predetermined tension, the scale on drum 3 changes to show greater tension increments per division. Should the springs fracture under too great a tension, movement apart of shafts 10 and 11 will be constrained by the plates 18, 19.