Patent ID: 7678002

Claim:
A tensioner comprising: a tensioner base defining a pivot axis; an arm pivotable about the pivot axis; a first ramp plate that is pivotable about the pivot axis and translatable along the pivot axis, the first ramp plate comprising: a friction surface in contact with the arm; and a ramp surface generally opposite the friction surface, the ramp surface having a plurality of first ramp features protruding therefrom at an angle; a second ramp plate comprising a mating ramp surface that has a plurality of second ramp features protruding therefrom at an angle, wherein the second ramp plate is positioned against the first ramp plate with the first ramp features and the second ramp features in a mating relationship of oppositely angled protrusions; and a torsion spring coupled to the first ramp plate, wherein the torsion spring is capable of providing a torsional force to the first ramp plate to pivot the first ramp plate about the pivot axis relative to the second ramp plate to urge the first ramp features to slide along the second ramp features which causes translation of the first ramp plate toward the arm for increased friction between the friction surface of the first ramp plate and the arm to dampen movement of the arm.