Patent ID: 8136827
Filing Date: 2012-03-20
Classification: B62M,F16H

Abstract:
1. A self-aligning pulley and drive belt system comprising: a drive belt, the drive belt comprising a plurality of longitudinally spaced inner lugs each having an alignment groove dividing the lug into first and second lug segments, the alignment groove having an alignment groove depth; and at least one pulley configured to engage an inner surface of the drive belt, the at least one pulley comprising: a frame configured to rotate about a rotation axis, the frame having a circular outer rim with opposing sides; a plurality of circumferential teeth extending radially and axially of the rim, each tooth having a tooth width and each tooth being configured to be received between adjacent inner lugs of the drive belt; and an alignment flange extending radially between adjacent circumferential teeth, the alignment flange being configured to be received in the alignment groove, and the alignment flange extending no further radially from the rotation axis than the circumferential teeth, the circumferential teeth, the alignment flange and the alignment groove being configured so that with the alignment flange received in the alignment groove, the drive belt rides on the circumferential teeth.