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Mechanical Movement 5 - Belt Transmission with Movable Tension Pulley

Mechanical Moviment - 5
Belt Transmission with Movable Tension Pulley

Summary

This mechanical movement is a belt transmission system that uses a movable tension pulley to engage or disengage power transfer. By controlling belt tension, the mechanism allows motion to be transmitted only when required.



Belt Transmission with Movable Tension Pulley 3D
Belt Transmission with Movable Tension Pulley - 3D

How It Works

The system consists of two main pulleys connected by a belt and an additional movable tension pulley.

When the tension pulley is pressed against the belt, it increases belt tension, allowing friction to transmit rotation from the driving pulley to the driven pulley.

When the tension pulley is released, the belt becomes slack, preventing effective power transmission and stopping the driven pulley.

This provides a simple mechanical method for engaging and disengaging motion without stopping the driver.


Belt Transmission with Movable Tension Pulley motion
Belt Transmission with Movable Tension Pulley - Motion

Main Components

  • Driving pulley – Supplies rotational motion

  • Driven pulley – Receives motion when engaged

  • Movable tension pulley – Controls belt tension

  • Flexible belt – Transfers motion through friction

  • Support structure – Maintains pulley alignment


Applications

  • Machine tools

  • Conveyor engagement systems

  • Early industrial machinery

  • Educational mechanical models


Advantages

  • Simple engagement and disengagement of motion

  • No need to stop the driving shaft

  • Low mechanical complexity

  • Smooth and quiet operation


Limitations

  • Limited torque capacity

  • Belt wear due to repeated tension changes

  • Requires precise tension adjustment

  • Not suitable for high-speed applications


Technical Notes

  • The position and travel of the tension pulley directly affect transmission efficiency.

  • Proper belt material and pulley surface finish improve friction and reduce slippage.

  • This mechanism is ideal for low to moderate load applications.


See More Mechanical Movements

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