ROLLER CHAIN SPROCKET WITH ADDED CHORDAL PITCH REDUCTION

摘要

A sprocket (112) is defined to include added chordal pitch reduction when in a new or "as-manufactured" condition. The sprocket chordal pitch Ps' is purposefully reduced as compared to the as-built chain pitch Pc (or a theoretical maximum sprocket chordal pitch) a select amount referred to here in as "added chordal pitch reduction." This added chordal pitch reduction is in addition to the inherent chordal pitch reduction that exists owing to manufacturing tolerances. A sprocket (112) incorporating added chordal pitch reduction is highly desired in that it facilitates extension of the meshing time interval for an associated chain roller. The sprocket (112) is formed t o have a chordal pitch that is reduced relative to a maximum theoretical sprocket chordal pitch (or the chain link pitch) by an amount between about 0.2 % and about 1 % of the maximum theoretical sprocket chordal pitch.