Connector assemblies

A connector assembly includes a shank having an inner abutment proximate to an inner extremity, and an outer abutment proximate to an outer extremity. A connector includes an inner loop that encircles the shank between the inner abutment and the outer abutment and that is movable reciprocally along the shank, a first portion that extends outwardly from the inner loop to a second portion that extends from the first portion past the outer extremity and the abutment to a third portion that extends inwardly and forwardly from the second portion to a pivotally mountable outer loop. Tensioned compression springs encircle the shank between the inner abutment and the inner loop, and act between the inner abutment and the inner loop urging the inner loop toward the outer abutment.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to connector assemblies and, more particularly, to connector assemblies for compliantly and resiliently connecting displaceable elements, such as pivotally connected links of linkage assemblies, and tensioning systems.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The prior art is replete with connector assemblies for and connectors for interconnecting fixed and moving parts. Although skilled artisans have devoted considerable effort toward such connector assemblies, past efforts have yielded connector assemblies that are complicated in structure, difficult and expensive to construct and, in some cases, impracticable. Accordingly, it is a purpose of the present invention to provide improved connector assemblies useful in dynamically connecting displaceable members and tensioning systems that are simple and efficient and that are adjustable and flexible for numerous applications.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to the principle of the invention, a connector assembly includes a shank having an inner extremity, an outer extremity, an inner abutment proximate to the inner extremity, and an outer abutment proximate to the outer extremity. The shank is arranged about a longitudinal axis that extends from the inner extremity to the outer extremity. A connector includes an inner end, a pivotally mountable outer end, and a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion between the inner end and the pivotally mountable outer end. The inner end is an inner loop. The inner loop encircles the shank between the inner abutment and the outer abutment. The inner loop is movable reciprocally along the shank relative to the inner abutment and the outer abutment. The first portion extends laterally outward from the shank from the inner loop to the second portion. The first portion is transverse relative to the longitudinal axis of the shank and is perpendicular relative to the second portion. The second portion extends alongside the shank from the first portion past the outer extremity and the outer abutment to the third portion ahead of the outer extremity and the outer abutment. The third portion extends inwardly from the second portion toward the longitudinal axis of the shank and forwardly from the second portion to the pivotally mountable outer end. The third portion is aslant relative to the second portion and the longitudinal axis of the shank. The second portion of the connector is longer than each of the first portion and the third portion of the connector. The pivotally mountable outer end of the connector is an outer loop. The inner loop encircles an inner loop axis and the outer loop encircles an outer loop axis. The outer loop axis is perpendicular relative to the outer loop axis. First and second compression springs encircle the shank between the inner loop of the connector and the inner abutment. The first and second compression springs and the inner loop are captured on the shank between the inner abutment and the outer abutment. The first compression spring has a first strength. The second compression spring has a second strength. The first strength of the first compression spring is less than the second strength of the second compression spring. The first compression spring is captured between and is tensioned against the inner loop and the second compression spring, the second compression spring is captured between and is tensioned against the first compression spring and the inner abutment. The first and second compression springs keep tension on the inner loop urging the inner loop toward the outer abutment. In a particular embodiment there are first and second displaceable members. The inner abutment is affixed rigidly to the first displaceable member, and the pivotally mountable outer end of the connector is mounted pivotally to the second displaceable member.

According to the principle of the invention, a connector assembly includes a turnbuckle, a connector, a first compression spring, a second compression spring, and a third compression spring. The turnbuckle includes a frame having a first end and a second end, a first bolt screwed into the first end of the frame, and a second bolt screwed into the second end of the frame. The first bolt is arranged about a longitudinal axis and extends outwardly from the first end of the frame to a head, and the second bolt is an eye bolt that extends outwardly from the second end of the frame to a connecting loop. The connector includes an inner end, an outer end, and a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion between the inner end and the outer end. The inner end is an inner loop. The inner loop encircles the first bolt between the first end of the frame and the head. The inner loop is movable reciprocally along the first bolt relative to the first end of the frame and the head. The first portion extends from the inner loop to the second portion. The first portion extends outward from the longitudinal axis of the first bolt and is transverse relative to the second portion. The second portion extends from the first portion past the head of the first bolt to the third portion ahead of the head of the first bolt. The third portion extends inward from the second portion toward the longitudinal axis of the first bolt to the outer end of the connector. The second portion of the connector is longer than each of the first portion and the third portion of the connector, and the outer end of the connector is an outer loop. First, second, and third compression springs encircle the first bolt. The first, second, and third compression springs and the inner loop are captured on the first bolt between the head and the first end of the frame. The second compression spring is tensioned between the first compression spring and the third compression spring. The first compression spring is tensioned between the head and the second compression spring. The third compression spring is tensioned between the second compression spring and the first end of the frame. The inner loop encircles the first bolt between the second compression spring and one of the first compression spring and the third compression spring. The first, second, and third compression springs are tensioned in series from the head of the first bolt to the first end of the frame. The first compression spring is tensioned against the head, the third compression spring is tensioned against the first end of the frame, the second compression spring and the one of the first compression spring and the third compression spring are tensioned against the inner loop, and the second compression spring and the other one of the first compression spring and the third compression spring are tensioned against one another. The first compression spring has a first strength, the second compression spring has a second strength, and the third compression spring has a third strength. The second strength of the second compression spring is less than each of the first strength of the first compression spring and the third strength of the third compression spring. The first portion of the connector is perpendicular relative to the second portion of the connector and the longitudinal axis of the first bolt. The third portion of the connector is perpendicular relative to the second portion of the connector and the longitudinal axis of the first bolt.

According to the principle of the invention, a connector assembly includes a shank having an inner extremity, an outer extremity, an inner abutment proximate to the inner extremity, and an outer abutment proximate to the outer extremity. The shank is arranged about a longitudinal axis that extends from the inner extremity to the outer extremity. A connector includes an inner end, a pivotally mountable outer end, and a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion between the inner end and the pivotally mountable outer end. The inner end is an inner loop. The inner loop encircles the shank between the inner abutment and the outer abutment. The inner loop is movable reciprocally along the shank relative to the inner abutment and the outer abutment. The first portion extends laterally outward from the shank from the inner loop to the second portion. The first portion is transverse relative to the longitudinal axis of the shank and is perpendicular relative to the second portion. The second portion extends alongside the shank from the first portion past the outer extremity and the outer abutment to the third portion ahead of the outer extremity and the outer abutment. The third portion extends inwardly from the second portion toward the longitudinal axis of the shank and forwardly from the second portion to the pivotally mountable outer end. The third portion is aslant relative to the second portion and the longitudinal axis of the shank. The second portion of the connector is longer than each of the first portion and the third portion of the connector. The pivotally mountable outer end of the connector is an outer loop. The inner loop encircles an inner loop axis and the outer loop encircles an outer loop axis, and the outer loop axis is perpendicular relative to the outer loop axis. First and second compression springs encircle the shank between the inner abutment and the outer abutment. The first and second compression springs and the inner loop are captured on the shank between the inner abutment and the outer abutment. The inner loop encircles the shank between the first compression spring and the second compression spring. The first compression spring is tensioned against the inner abutment and the inner loop. The second compression spring is tensioned against the inner loop and the outer abutment. The first and second compression springs keep tension on either side of the inner loop. In a particular embodiment there are first and second displaceable members, the inner abutment is affixed rigidly to the first displaceable member, and the pivotally mountable outer end of the connector is mounted pivotally to the second displaceable member.

Consistent with the foregoing summary of illustrative embodiments, and the ensuing detailed description, which are to be taken together, the invention also contemplates associated apparatus and method embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Turning now to the drawings, in which like reference characters indicate corresponding elements throughout the several views, attention is first directed toFIG. 1in which there is seen a side elevation view of a connector assembly50shown connected to displaceable members, including a segment of an inner arm52pivotally connected to an outer arm54having an outer end60formed with an attached stabilizer61for interacting with the ground. Inner arm52is for being connected to a vehicle that is driven over the ground, such as a bicycle or other pedal-driven vehicle, a trolley, a wagon, or the like, and stabilizer61is for interacting with the ground over which such as vehicle is driven like a training wheel assembly to stabilize the vehicle as it is driven to, for instance, prevent it from tipping over or otherwise becoming unstable. In this example, stabilizer61is a wheel that is capable of rolling over the ground over which the vehicle connected to inner arm52is driven. In an alternate embodiment, stabilizer61can be a skid for running over the ground.

Inner arm52includes an outer end53. Outer arm54includes a first part54A having inner end57, and a second part54B having outer end60connected to stabilizer61, and an intermediate bend54C between first part54A and second part54B. A conventional pivot joint64pivotally connects outer end53of inner arm52to inner end57of first part54A of outer arm54. First part54A extends upright from inner end57to intermediate bend54C in outer arm54, and the second part54B extends forward or outward from the intermediate bend54C in the outer arm54to stabilizer61, which depends downwardly from outer end60of outer arm54ahead of and opposing pivot joint64. In this example, inner end57of outer arm54is an eye bar and outer end53of inner arm52is a clevis. The eye bar of outer end53of inner arm52is inserted into the clevis of inner end57of outer arm54, which are attached pivotally with a nut-and-bolt assembly58. This characterizes pivot joint64, which provides pivotal movement of outer arm54relative to inner arm52from an inner or loaded position toward inner arm52inFIG. 2to an outer or unloaded position away inner arm52inFIG. 3from either side of an initial, starting, or neutral position of outer arm54inFIG. 1between the inner position of outer arm54inFIG. 2and the outer position of outer arm54inFIG. 3. Connector assembly50is connected to inner arm52and the intermediate bend54C of outer arm54. Connector assembly50extends across the inner angle between inner arm52and first part54A to the intermediate bend54C of outer arm54. Connector assembly50is mounted rigidly and immovably to inner arm52and is mounted pivotally to intermediate bend54C in outer arm54. Connector assembly50acts as a shock absorber between inner arm52and outer arm54, displacing between shortened and lengthened conditions in response to pivotal movement of outer arm54relative to inner arm52between its inner/loaded position and its outer/unloaded position. Connector assembly50is set to an initial or starting sag corresponding to the initial, neutral, or starting position of outer arm54relative to inner arm52inFIG. 1, is set to or otherwise assumes a loaded sag corresponding to the inner or loaded position of outer arm54relative to inner arm52inFIG. 2, and is set to or otherwise assumes an unloaded sag corresponding to the outer or unloaded position of outer arm54relative to inner arm52inFIG. 3. The term “sag” is a common term in the field of shock absorbers and means the amount of sag or deflection of the shock absorber, here being connector assembly50.FIG. 4is a fragmentary perspective view of the displaceable members corresponding toFIG. 1showing connector assembly50set to its initial sag corresponding to the initial, starting, or neutral position of outer arm54relative to inner arm52under a normal load condition,FIG. 5is a fragmentary perspective view of the displaceable members corresponding toFIG. 2showing connector assembly set50to its loaded sag corresponding to the inner or loaded position of outer arm54relative to inner arm52under a loaded condition that is greater than the normal load condition, andFIG. 6is a fragmentary perspective view of the displaceable members corresponding toFIG. 3showing connector assembly50set to its unloaded sag corresponding to the outer or unloaded position of outer arm54relative to inner arm52under an unloaded condition that is less than the normal load condition.

Turning toFIGS. 7 and 8, connector assembly50includes bolt70. Bolt70is a shank71that includes inner extremity72, and outer extremity73. Inner extremity72is mountable rigidly and is formed with lug104, which is mounted rigidly and immovably to inner arm52. Outer extremity73is threaded. Nut76is threaded onto outer extremity73. Nut76is considered a part of shank71when threaded on outer extremity73. Lug104is an inner abutment of shank71proximate to inner extremity72, and nut76is an outer abutment applied to shank71proximate to outer extremity73. Accordingly, reference numeral104is used to denote both the lug and the inner abutment of shank71, and reference numeral76is used to denote both the bolt and the outer abutment of shank71. Shank71is elongate and straight and is arranged about a longitudinal axis X1inFIG. 7that extends from inner extremity72to outer extremity73. In an alternate embodiment, outer abutment76can be fixed in place, such as by welding. Longitudinal axis X1is a fixed axis because lug104of inner extremity72of bolt70is mounted rigidly and immovably to inner arm52.

Connector assembly50further includes a connector80. Connector80is an elongate member formed of spring wire that is bent to shape, and that has shape memory. Referring toFIGS. 8-12in relevant part, connector80includes an inner end81, an outer end82, and a first portion83, a second portion84, and a third portion84between inner end81and outer end82. First, second, and third portions83,84, and85of connector80are each elongate, each having a length. The length of second portion84of connector50is longer than the length of first portion83and also the length of third portion85. The length of third portion85is, in turn, longer than the length of first portion83. Inner end81is an inner loop81A. Inner loop81A is not completely closed, but can be completely closed in an alternate embodiment if so desired by rigidly affixing, such as by welding or heat bonding, the tag end of inner loop81A to the opposed standing part of inner end81.

First, second, and third portions83,84, and85reside in a common plane. First and third portions83and85extend outwardly in same direction from bends at either end of second portion84. First portion83is perpendicular relative to second portion84, and third portion85extends forwardly from second portion and is aslant/oblique relative to second portion84at an angle of from 40 degrees to 45 degrees in this example. Outer end82is pivotally mountable, and is a pivotally mountable outer loop82A. InFIG. 12, inner loop81A encircles an inner loop axis P2. InFIGS. 9 and 10, outer loop82A encircles outer loop axis P3. Inner loop axis P2is perpendicular relative to the outer loop axis P3.

InFIG. 7, inner end81of connector80is mounted reciprocally to shank71between inner abutment104and outer abutment76for movement in reciprocal directions relative to inner abutment104and outer abutment76indicated by double arrowed line A. Specifically, inner loop encircles shank71proximate to outer extremity73between lug104defining the inner abutment of shank71, and nut76defining the outer abutment of shank71. First portion83extends from inner loop81A to second portion84. First portion83extends radially outward from shank71away from inner arm52and from longitudinal axis X1of shank71to second portion84, and second portion84is, as indicated above, perpendicular relative to first portion83. Second portion84is spaced from, and extends along the side of shank71, and extends forwardly from first portion83past outer extremity73and outer abutment76to third portion85ahead of outer extremity73and outer abutment76. Third portion85extends inwardly from second portion84toward longitudinal axis X1of shank71and forwardly from second portion84to outer loop82A of outer end82, the third portion being aslant/oblique relative to second portion84and also relative to shank71including longitudinal axis X1of shank71.

Sufficient clearance between inner loop81A and shank71permits inner loop81A to pivot on shank71relative to longitudinal axis X1, and to move in reciprocal directions along shank71along longitudinal axis X1as indicated by double arrowed line A inFIG. 7relative to inner abutment104and outer abutment76between an inner position inFIGS. 2 and 5corresponding to the loaded sag of connector assembly50and an inner or retracted position of connector80relative to shank71, an outer position inFIGS. 3 and 6corresponding to the unloaded sag of connector assembly50and an outer or extended position of connector80relative to shank71, and an intermediate position inFIGS. 1 and 4between the inner position of inner loop81A inFIG. 2and the outer position of loop81A inFIG. 3corresponding to the initial sag of connector assembly50and an initial, starting, or neutral position of connector80relative to shank70.

InFIG. 8, connector assembly50further includes a first compression spring90and a second compression spring100. First and second compression springs90and100are conventional compression/tension springs that each provides an outward bias. Each of the first and second compression springs90and100is a wire formed into numerous active coils. First and second compression springs90and100are each fashioned of spring steel having the customary constant moduli of elasticity as is typical with compression/tension springs. InFIG. 7, first and second compression springs90and100are installed on shank70between inner abutment104and outer abutment76. Specifically, first and second compression springs90and100encircle shank between inner loop81A of connector80and inner abutment104of shank71. First and second compression springs90and100and inner loop81A are installed onto shank71over outer extremity73and then nut76is threaded onto outer extremity73of shank71. First compression spring90is positioned between inner loop81A and second compression spring100, inner loop81A is positioned between first compression spring90and outer abutment76, and second compression spring100is positioned between inner abutment104and first compression spring90. First and second compression springs90and100and inner loop81A are captured on shank71between inner abutment104and outer abutment76, which is nut76. First compression spring90is captured between and is tensioned against inner loop81A of connector80and second compression spring100, and second compression spring100is captured between and is tensioned against first compression spring90and inner abutment104of connector80. First and second compression springs are outwardly tensioned and act against inner abutment104and inner loop81A urging inner loop81A toward or otherwise in the direction of outer abutment76.

A compression spring is designed with a specific strength or working stress, which is dependent on the material, the diameter of the wire and the pitch of the coils. In connector assembly50, first compression spring90has a first strength or working stress, second compression spring100has a second strength or working stress, and the first strength or working stress of first compression spring90is less than the second strength or working stress of second compression spring100. Compression springs90and100are well known “average service” springs. Average service springs make up the majority of springs in general use such as those found in motors, brakes, switches, machines, and mechanical products. Depending on the application, compression springs90and100can be “light service” compression springs, or “severe service” compression springs in alternate embodiments. Light service compression springs are well known to the skilled artisan and have small deflections with low stress ranges. Severe service compressions springs are also well known to the skilled artisan and are subjected to rapid deflections over long periods of time.

Connector assembly50is useful for resiliently and dynamically connecting displaceable members, such as pivotally connected inner and outer arms52and54inFIGS. 1-6. As stated above, connector assembly50is connected to inner arm52and the intermediate bend54C of outer arm54, and extends across the inner angle between inner arm52and first part54A to the intermediate bend54C of outer arm54. ReferencingFIGS. 1-7in relevant part, inner extremity of shank71is mounted rigidly and immovably to inner arm52with lug104, and outer end82of connector80is mounted pivotally to the intermediate bend54C of outer arm54between first part54A and second part54B. In this example, lug104is affixed rigidly and immovably to inner arm52via welding. A clevis110is rigidly affixed to intermediate bend54C of outer arm54via welding, and outer loop82A of outer end82of connector80is pivotally connected to clevis110with nut-and-bolt assembly110. Outer loop82A pivots at nut-and-bolt assembly111about a pivot axis, which is outer loop axis P3. Washers112encircle the bolt of nut-and-bolt assembly111between clevis110on either side of outer loop82A.

Connector assembly50holds inner and outer arms52and54in operative positions and restrains movement of outer arm54relative to inner arm52from its inner or loaded position inFIG. 2and its outer or unloaded position inFIG. 3. Connector assembly50acts as a shock absorber between inner arm52and outer arm54. The tension supplied by first and second tension springs90and100constantly urges inner loop81A toward outer abutment76.

InFIGS. 1 and 4, connector assembly50is set to the initial or starting sag corresponding to the initial or neutral or starting position of outer arm54relative to inner arm52inFIGS. 1 and 4in a normal load condition. In this starting position of outer arm54relative to inner arm, stabilizer61is set against the ground and inner loop81A is set to its intermediate position between the inner position of inner loop81A inFIGS. 2 and 5and the outer position of loop81A inFIG. 3corresponding to the initial position of connector80, and first and second compression springs90and100are tensioned to the initial sag of connector assembly50, in which first compression spring90is tensioned/compressed comparatively more than second compression spring100because the strength of first compression spring90is less than the strength of second compression spring100.

In response to movement of outer arm54from its starting position inFIGS. 1 and 4to its inner or loaded position inFIGS. 2 and 5, such as in response to stabilizer61striking an object or in response to an increased load applied across inner and outer arms52and54, outer end82of connector80pivots at outer loop82A about outer loop axis P3, and connector80is driven in the direction of arrowed line B inFIG. 5from its initial position inFIGS. 1 and 4to its retracted position inFIGS. 2 and 5concurrently urging inner loop81A along shank71in the same direction away from outer abutment76and toward inner abutment104from its initial position inFIGS. 1 and 4to its loaded position inFIGS. 2 and 5concurrently compressing first and second compression springs90and100between inner loop81A and inner abutment104. Because second compression spring100is stronger than first compression spring90, first and second compression springs90and100cooperate to increasingly resist movement of outer arm54as first and second compression springs90and100are compressed between inner abutment104and inner loop81A as outer arm54moves from its starting position inFIGS. 1 and 2to its inner or loaded position inFIG. 5.

In response to movement of outer arm54from its starting position inFIGS. 1 and 4or its inner or loaded position inFIGS. 2 and 5to its outer or unloaded position inFIGS. 3 and 6, outer end82of connector80pivots at outer loop82A about outer loop axis P3, and connector80is driven in the direction of arrowed line C inFIG. 6from its initial position inFIGS. 1 and 4to its extended position inFIGS. 3 and 6concurrently urging inner loop81A along shank71in the same direction away from inner abutment104and toward and against outer abutment76concurrently and partially decompressing first and second compression springs90and100between inner loop81A and inner abutment104. Outer abutment76limits/restrains the outward movement of inner loop81A. Because second compression spring100is stronger than first compression spring90, first and second compression springs90and100cooperate to decreasingly resist movement of outer arm54as it moves from its starting position inFIGS. 1 and 4to its outer or unloaded position inFIGS. 3 and 6. In the outermost position of inner loop81A against outer abutment76, first and second compression springs90and100remain partially tensioned urging inner loop81A toward and against outer abutment76. In response to movement of connector80from its starting position to its inner position and from its starting position to its outer position, inner loop81A freely pivots on shank71relative to longitudinal axis X1and moves along shank71in reciprocal directions relative to inner abutment104and outer abutment76. Connector assembly50provides shock absorption between inner and outer arms52and54, and tends to keep stabilizer61in contact with the ground.

As nut76is threaded on outer extremity73of shank71of bolt70, nut76forming the outer abutment is adjustable in reciprocal directions along shank71in response to rotation of nut76relative to shank71. This adjustability of nut76allows the initial tension of first and second compression springs90and100to be adjusted as needed.

InFIGS. 1-6, inner loop81A encircles shank71, first portion83extends from inner loop81A to second portion84, first portion83extends radially outward from shank71and from longitudinal axis X1of shank71and from the inner angle between inner and outer arms52and54to second portion84, second portion84is perpendicular relative to first portion83, second portion84is spaced from and extends along the side of shank71and extends forwardly from first portion83past outer extremity73and outer abutment76to third portion85ahead of outer extremity73and outer abutment76, and third portion85extends inwardly from second portion84toward longitudinal axis X1of shank71and forwardly from second portion84to outer loop82A of outer end82pivotally connected to outer arm54, the third portion85being aslant/oblique relative to second portion84and shank71including longitudinal axis X1of shank71, outer loop82A of outer end82located ahead of an opposing outer extremity74and outer abutment76. The shape of connector80is chosen to produce a mechanical advantage to compress and decompress springs90and100with the movement of connector80between its inner and outer positions in response to pivotal movement of outer arm54between its inner and outer positions. The orientation of third portion85being aslant/oblique from second portion84to the pivotal connection of outer loop82A relative to second portion84and shank71including longitudinal axis X1of shank71imparts strength in connector80and produces the mechanical advantage of connector80.

FIGS. 13, 14, and 19-23show an alternate embodiment of a connector assembly140including a turnbuckle141. Turnbuckle141includes a frame144. Frame144has a first end145and a second end146. First end145is in-line with respect to second end146. A first bolt150is threaded/screwed into first end145of frame144. A second bolt160is threaded/screwed into second end146of frame144. First bolt150is arranged about a longitudinal axis X2and extends outwardly from first end145of frame to a head151. Second bolt160is an eye bolt that extends outwardly from second end146of frame144to a connecting loop161. Second bolt160is in-line with respect to first bolt150, and is arranged about longitudinal axis X2.

Connector assembly140further includes a connector180. Referring in relevant part toFIGS. 13-23, connector180is an elongate member and is formed of spring wire that is bent to shape, and that has shape memory. Referring toFIGS. 13-18in relevant part, connector180includes an inner end181, an outer end182, and a first portion183, a second portion184, and a third portion184between inner end181and outer end182. First, second, and third portions183,184, and185of connector180are each elongate, each having a length. The length of second portion184of connector180is longer than the length of first portion183and also the length of third portion185. The length of third portion185is, in turn, equal to the length of first portion183. Inner end181is an inner loop181A. Outer end182is an outer loop182A. InFIG. 18, inner loop181A encircles an inner loop axis P4. First, second, and third portions183,184, and185reside in a common plane. First and third portions183and185extend outwardly from bends at either end of second portion184. First portion183is perpendicular relative to second portion184, and third portion185is perpendicular relative to second portion184. Outer end182is pivotally mountable, and is a pivotally mountable outer loop182A. InFIGS. 15 and 16, outer loop182A encircles outer loop axis P5. Inner loop axis P4is perpendicular relative to the outer loop axis P5.

InFIGS. 13 and 19, inner loop181A encircles first bolt150between first end145of frame144and head151of first bolt150. Sufficient clearance between inner loop181A and first bolt150permits inner loop181A to move in reciprocal directions along first bolt150along longitudinal axis X2as indicated by double arrowed line D inFIG. 13relative to first end145of frame144and head151of first bolt150to permit corresponding movement of connector180in reciprocal directions indicated by double arrowed line D. First portion183of connector180extends from inner loop181A to second portion184. First portion183extends radially outward from inner loop181A and first bolt159and longitudinal axis X2of first bolt150. First portion183is transverse relative to second portion184and, more particularly, is perpendicular relative to second portion184. Second portion184is spaced apart from and extends forwardly alongside first bolt150from first portion183past head151of first bolt150to third portion195ahead of head151of first bolt150. Third portion extends185inward from second portion184toward longitudinal axis X2of first bolt150to outer loop182A of outer end182. Outer loop182A of outer end182resides along axis X2. Inner loop axis P4is coincident with longitudinal axis X2of first bolt150and outer loop axis P5is perpendicular relative to inner loop axis P4.

InFIG. 14, connector assembly140further includes a first compression spring190, a second compression191, and a third compression spring192. First, second, and third compression springs190,191, and192are conventional compression/tension springs that each provides an outward bias and is a wire formed into numerous active coils including two, opposed outermost coils. First, second, and third compression springs190,191, and192are each fashioned of spring steel having the customary constant moduli of elasticity as is typical with compression/tension springs.

First, second, and third compression springs190,191, and192encircle first bolt150. First, second, and third compression springs190,191, and192, and inner loop181A are captured on first bolt150between head151and first end145of frame144. Second compression spring191is tensioned between first compression spring190and the third compression spring192, first compression spring190is tensioned between head151of first bolt150and second compression spring191, and third compression spring192is tensioned between second compression spring191and first end145of frame144. Inner loop181A encircles first bolt150between second compression spring191and third compression spring192. The first, second, and third compression springs190,191, and192are tensioned in series from head151of first bolt150to first end145of frame144, first compression spring190being tensioned against head151and second compression spring191, third compression spring192being tensioned against first end145of frame144inner loop181A of connector180, and second compression spring191being tensioned against first compression spring190and inner loop181A of connector180. First and second compression springs190and191are concurrently constantly tensioned in the direction of inner end145of frame144against inner loop181A of connector180encircling first bolt150between second compression spring191and third compression spring192, and third compression spring192is constantly tensioned in the opposite direction toward head151against inner loop181A of connector encircling bolt150.

As explained above in connection with connector assembly50, a compression spring is designed with a specific strength, which is dependent on the material, the diameter of the wire and the pitch of the coils. In connector assembly140, first compression spring190has a first strength or working stress, second compression spring191has a second strength or working stress, and third compression spring192has a third strength or working stress. The second strength or working stress of the second compression spring192is less than the first strength or working stress of the first compression spring190and is less than the third strength or working stress of the third compression spring192. The first strength or working stress of the first compression spring191is equal to the third strength or working stress of the third compression spring192. In connector assembly140, first, second, and third compression springs190,191, and192are well known average service springs. Depending on the application, compression springs190,191, and192can be light service compression springs, or severe service compression springs in alternate embodiments.

Connector assembly140is useful for adjusting the tension of tensioning systems, lengths of ropes, cables, wires, and the like. Connecting loop161of second bolt160and outer loop182A can be connected to such a tensioning system, and the tension can be adjusted by rotating frame140, which causes first and second bolts150and160to be simultaneously screwed in or out of first and second ends145and146, respectively, without twisting first and second bolts150and160or the tensioning system.

The tension supplied by third compression spring192on one side of outer loop182A of connector180between first end145of frame144and inner loop181A and the tension of first and second compression springs190and191on the opposed side of inner loop181A of connector180between head151and inner loop181A constantly work against each other urging inner loop181A of connector180to an initial or at-rest position between second and third compression springs191and192inFIG. 19along the length of first bolt150proximate to first end145of frame144between head151of first bolt150and first end145of frame144. Second compression spring191is tensioned/compressed comparatively more than first and third compression springs190and192because the strength of second compression spring191is less than the strength of second and third compression springs191and192.

InFIG. 19, as a matter of example a ring200is shown connecting outer loop182A to connecting strap201. Connecting strap201and connecting loop161are connectable to a tensioning system. In response to tensioning of connector assembly140, connecting strap201and connecting loop161of second bolt161are pulled apart by the tensioning system, and connector80is concurrently driven in the direction of arrowed line E inFIG. 20urging inner loop181A along first bolt150in the same direction away from first end145of frame144and toward head151of first bolt concurrently compressing first and second compression springs190and191between inner loop181A and head151of first bolt150while partially relieving the tension of third compression spring192between first end145of frame144and inner loop181A allowing third compression spring192to partially decompress. Because first compression spring190acting between head151and second compression spring191is stronger than second compression spring191, first and second compression springs190and191cooperate to increasingly resist movement of connector180in the direction of arrowed line E as inner loop181A moves from its at-rest position inFIG. 19in the direction of arrowed line E inFIG. 20toward head151. In response to release of the tension applied across connector assembly140from the tensioning system, the tension applied by first, second, and third compression springs190,191, and192cooperate to urge inner loop181A, and thus connector180, back to the at-rest position until the tension supplied by third compression spring192on one side of outer loop182A of connector180between first end145of frame144and inner loop181A is equalized with respect to the tension of first and second compression springs190and191on the opposed side of inner loop181A of connector180between head151and inner loop181A.

InFIG. 19, turnbuckle141is adjusted via rotation lengthening the distance between head151of first bolt150and first end145of frame144, which sets the initial tensions supplied by the respective first, second, and third compression springs190,191, and192. To increase the initial tension supplied by first, second, and third compression springs190,191, and192, turnbuckle141can be adjusted via rotation as inFIG. 21to shorten the distance between head151of first bolt150and first end145of frame144. To decrease the initial tension supplied by first, second, and third compression springs190,191, and192, turnbuckle141can be adjusted fromFIG. 19to further increase the distance between head151of first bolt150and first end145of frame144.

InFIGS. 19, 20, and 21, inner loop181A encircles first bolt150between second compression spring191and third compression spring192. InFIGS. 22 and 23, connector assembly140reconfigured in that inner loop181A encircles first bolt150between second compression spring191and first compression spring190. InFIGS. 22 and 23, the first, second, and third compression springs190,191, and192are tensioned in series from head151of first bolt150to first end145of frame144, first compression spring190being tensioned against head151and inner loop181A of connector180, third compression spring192being tensioned against first end145of frame144and second compression spring191, and second compression spring191being tensioned against third compression spring192and inner loop181A of connector180. First compression spring190is concurrently constantly tensioned in the direction of inner end145of frame144against inner loop181A of connector180encircling first bolt150between first compression spring190and second compression spring191, and second and third compression springs191and192are constantly tensioned in the opposite direction of head151against inner loop181A of connector encircling bolt150.

In the embodiment of connector assembly140inFIGS. 22 and 23, the tension supplied by second and third compression springs191and192on one side of outer loop182A of connector180between first end145of frame144and inner loop181A and the tension of first compression spring190on the opposed side of inner loop181A of connector180between head151and inner loop181A constantly work against each other urging inner loop181A of connector180at an initial or at-rest position between first and second compression springs190and191inFIG. 22along the length of first bolt150proximate to head151of first bolt150between head151of first bolt150and first end145of frame144. Second compression spring191is compressed comparatively more than first and third compression springs190and192because the strength of second compression spring191is less than the strength of second and third compression springs191and192.

InFIG. 22, ring200is shown connecting outer loop182A to connecting strap201, and connecting strap201and connecting loop161are connectable to a tensioning system. In response to tensioning of the tension system inFIG. 20, connecting strap201and connecting loop161of second bolt161are pulled apart, and connector180is concurrently driven in the direction of arrowed line E inFIG. 23urging inner loop181A along first bolt150in the same direction away from first end145of frame144and toward head151of first bolt compressing first compression spring190between inner loop181A and head151of bolt150while partially relieving the tension of second and third compression springs191and192between first end145of frame144and inner loop181A allowing second and third compression springs191and192to partially decompress. First compression spring190resists movement of connector180in the direction of arrowed line E as inner loop181A moves from its at-rest position inFIG. 22in the direction of arrowed line E inFIG. 23toward head151. In response to release of the tension applied across connector assembly140from the tensioning system, the tension applied by first, second, and third compression springs190,191, and192cooperate to urge inner loop181A, and thus connector180, back to the at-rest position until the tension supplied by first compression spring190on one side of outer loop182A of connector180between head151and inner loop181A is equalized with respect to the tension of second and third compression springs190and191on the opposed side of inner loop181A of connector180between inner end145of frame144and inner loop181A. InFIGS. 22 and 23, only first compression spring190acts between head151of first bolt150and inner loop181A of connector180. This lessens the ability for connector assembly140to lengthen between outer loop182A and connecting loop161compared to the ability of connector assembly140to lengthen between outer loop182A and connecting loop161with first and second compression springs190and192acting between head151of first bolt150and inner loop181A of connector180as can be needed depending on the particular application of connector assembly140.

Attention is new directed toFIG. 24illustrating a further embodiment of a connector assembly250shown connected to the displaceable members corresponding toFIG. 4, including segment of inner arm52pivotally connected to outer arm54. Inner arm52includes an outer end53. Outer arm54includes first part54A having inner end57, and second part54B having intermediate bend54C. Pivot joint64pivotally connects outer end53of inner arm52to inner end57of first part54A of outer arm54. First part54A extends upright from inner end57to intermediate bend54C in outer arm54. In this example, inner end57of outer arm54is an eye bar and outer end53of inner arm52is a clevis. The eye bar of outer end53of inner arm52is inserted into the clevis of inner end57of outer arm54, which are attached pivotally with nut-and-bolt assembly58. This characterizes pivot joint64, which provides pivotal movement of outer arm54relative to inner arm52from an inner position toward inner arm52inFIG. 25to an outer position away inner arm52inFIG. 26from either side of an initial, starting, or neutral position of outer arm54inFIG. 24between the inner position of outer arm54inFIG. 25and the outer position of outer arm54inFIG. 26. Connector assembly250is connected to inner arm52and the intermediate bend54C of outer arm54. Connector assembly250extends across the inner angle between inner arm52and first part54A to the intermediate bend54C of outer arm54. Connector assembly250is mounted rigidly and immovably to inner arm52and is mounted pivotally to intermediate bend54C in outer arm54. Connector assembly250acts as a shock absorber between inner arm52and outer arm54, displacing between shortened and lengthened conditions in response to pivotal movement of outer arm54relative to inner arm52between its inner position and its outer position. Connector assembly250is set to an initial or starting sag corresponding to the initial, neutral, or starting position of outer arm54relative to inner arm52inFIG. 24, is set to or otherwise assumes an inner loaded sag corresponding to the inner position of outer arm54relative to inner arm52inFIG. 25, and is set to or otherwise assumes a outer loaded sag corresponding to the outer position of outer arm54relative to inner arm52inFIG. 26. Again, the term “sag” is a common term in the field of shock absorbers and means the amount of sag or deflection of the shock absorber, here being connector assembly250.FIG. 24is a fragmentary perspective view of the displaceable members corresponding toFIG. 4showing connector assembly250set to its initial sag corresponding to the initial, starting, or neutral position of outer arm54relative to inner arm52under a normal load condition,FIG. 25is a fragmentary perspective view of the displaceable members corresponding toFIG. 5showing connector assembly set250to its inner loaded sag corresponding to the inner or inner loaded position of outer arm54relative to inner arm52under an inner loaded condition, andFIG. 26is a fragmentary perspective view of the displaceable members corresponding toFIG. 6showing connector assembly250set to its outer loaded sag corresponding to the outer or outer loaded position of outer arm54relative to inner arm52under an outer loaded condition.

Turning toFIG. 27, connector assembly250includes bolt270. Bolt270is a shank271that includes inner extremity272, and outer extremity273. Inner extremity272is mountable rigidly and is formed with lug304, which is mounted rigidly and immovably to inner arm52. Outer extremity273is threaded. Nut276is threaded onto outer extremity273. Nut276is considered a part of shank271when threaded on outer extremity273. Lug304is an inner abutment of shank271proximate to inner extremity272, and nut276is an outer abutment applied to shank271proximate to outer extremity273. Accordingly, reference numeral304is used to denote both the lug and the inner abutment of shank271, and reference numeral276is used to denote both the bolt and the outer abutment of shank271. Shank271is elongate and straight and is arranged about a longitudinal axis X3inFIG. 27that extends from inner extremity272to outer extremity273. In an alternate embodiment, outer abutment276can be fixed in place, such as by welding. Longitudinal axis X3is a fixed axis because lug304of inner extremity272of bolt270is mounted rigidly and immovably to inner arm52.

Connector assembly250further includes a connector280. Connector280is an elongate member formed of spring wire that is bent to shape, and that has shape memory. Referring toFIGS. 27-31in relevant part, connector280includes an inner end281, an outer end282, and a first portion283, a second portion284, and a third portion284between inner end281and outer end282. First, second, and third portions283,284, and285of connector280are each elongate, each having a length. The length of second portion284of connector250is longer than the length of first portion283and also the length of third portion285. First and third portions285are approximately equal in length. Inner end281is an inner loop281A. Inner loop281A is not completely closed, but can be completely closed in an alternate embodiment if so desired by rigidly affixing, such as by welding or heat bonding, the tag end of inner loop281A to the opposed standing part of inner end281.

First, second, and third portions283,284, and285reside in a common plane. First and third portions283and285extend outwardly in same direction from bends at either end of second portion284. First portion283is perpendicular relative to second portion284, and third portion285extends forwardly from second portion and is aslant/oblique relative to second portion284at an angle of from 40 degrees to 50 degrees in this example. Outer end282is pivotally mountable, and is a pivotally mountable outer loop282A. InFIGS. 27, 30 and 31, inner loop281A encircles an inner loop axis Q1. InFIGS. 27-29, outer loop282A encircles outer loop axis Q2. Inner loop axis Q1, along which inner loop281A reciprocates, is perpendicular relative to the outer loop axis Q2. Outer loop282A pivots about outer loop axis Q2.

InFIGS. 24, 24A, and 25-26, inner end281of connector280is mounted reciprocally to shank271between inner abutment304and outer abutment276for movement in reciprocal directions relative to inner abutment304and outer abutment276indicated by double arrowed line F inFIG. 24. Specifically, inner loop encircles shank271proximate to outer extremity273between lug304defining the inner abutment of shank271, and nut276defining the outer abutment of shank271. First portion283extends from inner loop281A to second portion284. First portion283extends radially inward from shank271toward inner arm52and from longitudinal axis X1of shank271to second portion284, and second portion284is, as indicated above, perpendicular relative to first portion283. Second portion284is spaced from, and extends along the side of shank271, and extends forwardly from first portion283past outer extremity273and outer abutment276to third portion285ahead of outer extremity273and outer abutment276. Third portion285extends outwardly from second portion284toward longitudinal axis X3of shank271and forwardly from second portion284to outer loop282A of outer end282(FIGS. 24A and 27), the third portion being aslant/oblique relative to second portion284and also relative to shank271including longitudinal axis X3of shank271.

Sufficient clearance between inner loop281A and shank271permits inner loop281A to displace pivotally on shank271relative to longitudinal axis X3, and to move in reciprocal directions along shank271along longitudinal axis X3as indicated by double arrowed line F inFIG. 24relative to inner abutment304and outer abutment276between an inner position inFIG. 25corresponding to the inner loaded sag of connector assembly250and an inner or retracted position of connector280relative to shank271, an outer position inFIG. 26corresponding to the outer loaded sag of connector assembly250and an outer or extended position of connector280relative to shank271, and an intermediate position inFIG. 24between the inner position of inner loop281A inFIG. 25and the outer position of loop281A inFIG. 26corresponding to the initial sag of connector assembly250and an initial, starting, or neutral position of connector280relative to shank270.

InFIGS. 24-27, connector assembly250further includes a first compression spring290and a second compression spring300. First and second compression springs290and300are conventional compression/tension springs that each provides an outward bias. Each of the first and second compression springs290is a wire formed into numerous active coils. Each of the first and second compression springs290and300is a wire formed into numerous active coils. First and second compression springs290and300are each fashioned of spring steel having the customary constant moduli of elasticity as is typical with compression/tension springs. First and second compression springs290and300are installed on shank270between inner abutment304and outer abutment276. First and second compression springs290and300and inner loop281A are installed onto shank271over outer extremity273and then nut276is threaded onto outer extremity273of shank271. Specifically, first and second compression springs290and300encircle shank271between inner abutment304and outer abutment276. First and second compression springs290and300and inner loop281A are captured on shank271between inner abutment304and outer abutment276. Inner loop281A encircles shank271between first compression spring290and second compression spring300. One washer320encircles shank271between first compression spring290and inner loop281A, and another washer encircles shank271between second compression spring300and inner loop281A. A washer321encircles shank271between second compression spring300and outer abutment276. First compression spring is tensioned against inner abutment304and inner loop281A, and second compression spring300is tensioned against inner loop281A and outer abutment276. A washer321encircles shank271between second compression spring300and outer abutment276. First and second compression springs290and300keep tension on either side of the inner loop281A urging it into its intermediate position inFIG. 24between the inner position of inner loop281A inFIG. 25and the outer position of loop281A inFIG. 26corresponding to the initial sag of connector assembly250and an initial, starting, or neutral position of connector280relative to shank270.

A compression spring is designed with a specific strength or working stress, which is dependent on the material, the diameter of the wire and the pitch of the coils. In connector assembly250, each of first and second compression springs290and300has strength or working stress. The strength or working stress of first and second compression springs290and300is the same in this example, and can be different in alternate embodiments. Compression springs290and300are well known “average service” springs. Average service springs make up the majority of springs in general use such as those found in motors, brakes, switches, machines, and mechanical products. Depending on the application, compression springs290and300can be “light service” compression springs, or “severe service” compression springs in alternate embodiments. Light service compression springs are well known to the skilled artisan and have small deflections with low stress ranges. Severe service compressions springs are also well known to the skilled artisan and are subjected to rapid deflections over long periods of time.

Connector assembly250is useful for resiliently and dynamically connecting displaceable members, such as pivotally connected inner and outer arms52and54inFIGS. 24-26. As stated above, connector assembly250is connected to inner arm52and the intermediate bend54C of outer arm54, and extends across the inner angle between inner arm52and first part54A to the intermediate bend54C of outer arm54. Inner extremity of shank271is mounted rigidly and immovably to inner arm52with lug304, and outer end282of connector280is mounted pivotally to the intermediate bend54C of outer arm54between first part54A and second part54B. In this example, lug304is affixed rigidly and immovably to inner arm52via welding. A clevis310is rigidly affixed to intermediate bend54C of outer arm54via welding, and outer loop282A of outer end282of connector280is pivotally connected to clevis310with nut-and-bolt assembly310. Outer loop282A pivots at nut-and-bolt assembly311about a pivot axis, which is outer loop axis Q2. Washers312encircle the bolt of nut-and-bolt assembly311between clevis310on either side of outer loop282A.

Connector assembly250holds inner and outer arms52and54in operative positions and restrains movement of outer arm54relative to inner arm52from its inner position inFIG. 25and its outer position inFIG. 26on either side of its neutral position inFIG. 24. Connector assembly250acts as a shock absorber between inner arm52and outer arm54. The tension supplied by first and second tension springs290and300on either side of inner loop281A constantly urges inner loop281A toward its intermediate or neutral position inFIG. 24.

InFIG. 24, connector assembly250is set to the initial or starting sag corresponding to the initial or neutral or starting position of outer arm54relative to inner arm52inFIGS. 1 and 4in a normal load condition. In this starting position of outer arm54relative to inner arm52, inner loop281A is set to its intermediate position between the inner position of inner loop281A inFIG. 25and the outer position of loop281A inFIG. 26corresponding to the initial position of connector280, and first and second compression springs290and300are tensioned to the initial sag of connector assembly250, in which first and second compression springs290and300are tensioned on either side of inner loop281A holding inner loop281A, and thus connector280, in its intermediate position.

In response to movement of outer arm54from its starting position inFIG. 24to its inner position inFIG. 25, such as in response to a load applied across inner and outer arms52and54, outer end282of connector280pivots at outer loop282A about outer loop axis Q2, and connector280is driven in the direction of arrowed line G inFIG. 25from its initial position inFIG. 24to its retracted position inFIG. 25concurrently urging inner loop281A along shank271in the same direction away from outer abutment276and toward inner abutment304from its initial position inFIG. 24to its inner loaded position inFIG. 25concurrently compressing first compression spring290between inner abutment304and inner loop281A and relaxing second compression spring300between outer abutment276and inner loop281A. First compression spring290resists movement of outer arm54as first compression spring290is compressed between inner abutment304and inner loop281A as outer arm54moves from its starting position inFIG. 24to its inner position inFIG. 25.

In response to movement of outer arm54from its starting position inFIG. 24or its inner position inFIG. 25to its outer position inFIG. 26, outer end282of connector280pivots at outer loop282A about outer loop axis Q2, and connector280is driven in the direction of arrowed line H inFIG. 26from its initial position inFIG. 24to its extended position inFIG. 26concurrently urging inner loop281A along shank271in the same direction away from inner abutment304and toward outer abutment276concurrently relaxing first compression spring290between inner abutment304and inner loop281A and compressing second compression spring300between outer abutment276and inner loop281A. Second compression spring300resists movement of outer arm54as first compression spring290is compressed between outer abutment276and inner loop281A as outer arm54moves from its starting position inFIG. 24to its outer position inFIG. 26. In response to movement of connector280from its starting position to its inner position and from its starting position to its outer position, inner loop281A freely pivots on shank271relative to longitudinal axis X3and moves along shank271in reciprocal directions relative to inner abutment304and outer abutment276. Connector assembly250provides shock absorption between inner and outer arms52and54, and tends to keep outer arm54in its neutral position inFIG. 24between the inner position of outer arm54inFIG. 25and the outer position of outer arm54inFIG. 26.

As nut276is threaded on outer extremity273of shank271of bolt270, nut276forming the outer abutment is adjustable in reciprocal directions along shank271in response to rotation of nut276relative to shank271. This adjustability of nut276allows the initial tension of first and second compression springs290and300to be adjusted as needed.

InFIGS. 24-26, inner loop281A encircles shank271, first portion283extends from inner loop281A to second portion284, first portion283extends radially inward from shank271and from longitudinal axis X3of shank271toward inner arm52and the inner angle between inner and outer arms52and54to second portion284, second portion284is perpendicular relative to first portion283, second portion284is spaced from and extends along the side of shank271and extends forwardly from first portion283past outer extremity273and outer abutment276to third portion285ahead of outer extremity273and outer abutment276, and third portion285extends outwardly from second portion284toward longitudinal axis X3of shank271and forwardly from second portion284to outer loop282A of outer end282(seeFIG. 27) pivotally connected to outer arm54, the third portion285being aslant/oblique relative to second portion284and shank271including longitudinal axis X1of shank271, outer loop282A of outer end282located ahead of an opposing outer extremity74and outer abutment276. The shape of connector280is chosen to produce a mechanical advantage to compress and decompress springs290and300with the movement of connector280between its inner and outer positions in response to pivotal movement of outer arm54between its inner and outer positions. The orientation of third portion285being aslant/oblique from second portion284to the pivotal connection of outer loop282A indicated by outer loop axis Q2relative to second portion284and shank271including longitudinal axis X3of shank271imparts strength in connector280and produces the mechanical advantage of connector280.

The invention has been described above with reference to illustrative embodiments. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that changes and modifications may be made to the embodiments without departing from the nature and scope of the invention. Various changes and modifications to the embodiments herein chosen for purposes of illustration will readily occur to those skilled in the art. To the extent that such modifications and variations do not depart from the spirit of the invention, they are intended to be included within the scope thereof.