Patent ID: 8336702
Filing Date: 2012-12-25
Classification: B65G

Abstract:
1. A tensioner for applying force to a device to be tensioned, wherein the force applying tensioner is configurable for applying force in different directions, said tensioner comprising: a mounting plate having a base, having a pair of substantially parallel guides on the base defining a sliding channel and having a spring support extending outwardly beyond an end of the base of said mounting plate, wherein a base of said spring support is substantially perpendicular to and aligned with the sliding channel; a slidable member slidable in the sliding channel defined by said pair of parallel guides of said mounting plate in a given direction and in a direction substantially opposite to the given direction, said slidable member having a member for receiving a support for a device to be tensioned, said slidable member having an outwardly extending projection on a first flange at a first end thereof and an opening in a second flange at a second end thereof; a first threaded member; and a spring for being coupled to said mounting plate and to the first and second ends of said slidable member in different first and second positions, wherein in the first position: wherein in the second position: wherein said spring urges said slidable member in the given direction relative to said mounting plate when coupled to said mounting plate and to said slidable member in the first position and urges said slidable member in the direction opposite to the given direction when coupled to said mounting plate and to said slidable member in the second position.