Quick -Action Tensioning Device

Abstract

A tensioning device for at least one cable control switch is described. The tensioning device includes a holding element for clamping and securing a cable thereto. A housing is connected to the holding element. An adjustment device is disposed between the housing and the holding element to permit adjustment between the housing and the holding element, thereby permitting a predetermined tension to be applied to the cable. The device also includes an electronic device for detecting the tension in the cable and for generating a signal indicative of the tension.

1 - 7 . (canceled) 
   
   
       8 . A tensioning device for at least one cable control switch, comprising:
 a holding element for clamping and securing a cable thereto;   a housing connected to the holding element;   an adjustment device disposed between the housing and the holding element to permit adjustment between the housing and the holding element, thereby permitting a predetermined tension to be applied to the cable; and   an electronic device for detecting the tension in the cable and for generating a signal indicative of the tension.   
   
   
       9 . The tensioning device of  claim 8 , wherein the electronic device comprises an optical sensor for detecting the tension on the cable. 
   
   
       10 . The tensioning device of  claim 9 , further comprising:
 a bracing disposed between the housing and the cable,   wherein the optical sensor is disposed in the housing and detects movement of the bracing.   
   
   
       11 . The tensioning device of  claim 10 , wherein the bracing is pivotally mounted in the housing. 
   
   
       12 . The tensioning device of  claim 8 , wherein the electronic device comprises a sensor that detects a direction of movement of the cable. 
   
   
       13 . The tensioning device of  claim 8 , wherein the electronic device generates an error signal indicative of a deviation of the tension from a predetermined setpoint. 
   
   
       14 . The tensioning device of  claim 13 , wherein the predetermined setpoint comprises a range of setpoints. 
   
   
       15 . The tensioning device of  claim 8 , further comprising a controller that receives the signal generated by the electronic device. 
   
   
       16 . The tensioning device of  claim 15 , wherein the controller generates a signal concerning a deviation of the tension from a predetermined setpoint based on the signal generated by the electronic device. 
   
   
       17 . The tensioning device of  claim 15 , further comprising:
 a temperature sensor connected to the controller to detect a temperature and to provide a temperature signal to the controller,   wherein the controller generates an error signal with respect to the tension on the cable as a function of temperature.