摘要 |
ISSUE To reduce operating noise and further improve durability in a cushioning structure for a sprocket used in a roller chain or bush chain. MEANS OF RESOLUTION Annular first and second cushion rings 2, 3 are provided in such a way as to be able to slide against each other around grooves 10a in a sprocket 1. The first cushion ring 2 consists of a single wire and has a wave-like shape comprising a plurality of projections 2a. The second cushion ring 3 consists of a single wire and has a circular shape running around the outer circumference of the sprocket 1. When a roller chain 5 meshes with the sprocket, the rollers 50 make contact with the second cushion ring 3 causing the second cushion ring 3 to elastically deform, then causing the first cushion ring 2 to elastically deform. At this point, the first and second cushion rings 2, 3 slide against each other. As a result, the impact noise of the rollers 50 and the sprocket teeth 10 is effectively reduced. |