DE102009057516A1 - Coil spring extension, particularly chassis suitable motor vehicle coil spring, for use in chassis suspension for mounting at spring sections, has two parallely running elongation sections - Google Patents

Abstract

The coil spring extension has two parallely running elongation sections (24,28). The former elongation section is a base plate-shaped block, and the latter elongation section is an enclosure, which protrudes from a side (40) of the base plate. The enclosure supports the transverse diameter of a coil spring wire (20) by its inner width between two arms of the enclosure. Independent claims are also included for the following: (1) a chassis suspension with the semi trailers; and (2) a method for height level controlling of chassis suspension in mounted condition in a motor vehicle.

Description

The The present invention relates to an installation part which is in vehicle suspension or a suspension suspension can be installed, and a corresponding Suspension suspension of a motor vehicle with a corresponding Component. The built-in part can be used as a spring extension or as an extension be called a coil spring. The built-in leaves also in externally powered vehicles, such as trailers, caravans and semitrailers, install.

State of the art

One important area for the tuning sector of motor vehicles is the adaptation of the chassis, for example by lowering the motor vehicle chassis or by the installation of firmer suspensions. Corresponding suspensions are also common among the the trailers belonging to the respective motor vehicle, Used semi-trailers and caravans. Especially attractive is, if visually particularly well prepared vehicles even temporarily are lowered; alternatively very tight set springs or suspensions can be installed in a vehicle and, if necessary, for example, during a holiday trip, setting the Vehicle during the winter in garages with accordingly high thresholds and when rugged terrain covered to be adjusted, the low setting of the landing gear again can be.

A Spring commonly used in suspensions is a coil spring. The coil spring extends along a (imaginary) cylinder. you can in this context of an axial extent and a speak radial extent of the coil spring. The axial extent of Coil spring is the extension along the longitudinal axis of the (imaginary) cylinder. The longitudinal axis of the cylinder has the longitudinal direction. Under radial extent the helical spring is the extension along the radii of the (imaginary) To understand cylinders that are normal to the axial extent. If the following is spoken of axis of the spring, then the center axis meant by the coil spring. The axis of the spring thus falls with the axis of the cylinder together. The pen fills one Space out, axially but spaced, around a radius extends. Fill springs of different heights thus a different length tube-like space out. For example, feathers that are 120mm long make up about 120 mm long hollow, round structure. The body of the coil spring is in the axial extent along the cylinder jacket to the Axis wound around. The body of the coil spring is usually designed as a helical spring wire. The coil spring wire has a longitudinal extent and a transverse diameter. The coil spring wire constituting the coil spring is spiral-like wound. The two ends of the coil spring wire represent the Ends of the coil spring. One can in the axial extent viewed from the axial ends or shortly from the ends of the coil spring speak. The distance in the axial extension of two consecutive Windings of the spiral are referred to as gear or pitch. As Gang or as a spring gear is also a winding piece of the spiral wound coil spring wire. When Spring radius is the radius that is normal to the central axis extending the coil spring away to the coil spring wire. The spring radius can, for example, up to the middle of a transverse diameter of the coil spring wire or - viewed radially - until measured to the inside or to the outside thereof become. The coil spring wire is usually made of steel, for example, spring steel. The transverse diameter of the helical spring wire can therefore be referred to as spring steel thickness. The term "spring thickness" becomes synonymous used to the term spring steel thickness.

A Possibility would be, all suspensions to remove a motor vehicle and in their place accordingly to install longer springs. Despite the price developments in automotive springs in recent years, everyone would Holder of a vehicle whose height the holder needs wanted to adapt, be forced to feather two complete sets to hold up alternately. Depending on the vehicle type and vehicle type beats a set of springs as a retrofit kit in a three- or four-digit euro area to book. Many drivers of optically prepared vehicles feel So the need, their lowered vehicle in terms of height to be able to adapt without a separate sentence Car springs.

From the field of freight vehicles level adjustments, such. B in the document WO 03/022 604 A2 (Applicant: ZF Friedrichshafen AG, priority date: 8 September 2001). The level control engages the suspension with a special, adjustable device. For the electromechanical level control of the motor vehicle, the upper or a first contact point of the spring by means of an electric drive relative to the vehicle body is adjustable. It is proposed to use a spindle drive. The spindle drive has a spindle drivable by the electric drive and a spindle nut fixedly connected to the first contact point. If the vehicle level is to be changed, then the spindle is extended by means of spindle drive to different extents. However, the device to be installed in trucks can not on lowered cars due to their weight and dimensions will wear.

In the pictures of the DE 196 04 558 C1 (Applicant: Fichtel & Sachs AG, filing date: February 8, 1996) the exact height of the chassis supporting it is determined via the sealing unit, whereby the exact position of the sealing unit on the respective individual cylinder determines the height level of a McPherson suspension, thus the figures one Solution for level adjustments indicated earlier by a special retaining ring for a spring plate in the DE 44 38 756 A1 (Applicant: Fichtel & Sachs AG, priority date: 26 November 1993). The engaging in a toothing retaining ring can along a cylinder, which is provided with different Zahneinkerbungen, adjust the position of the spring plate along the cylinder and thus the level of vehicle suspension.

Instead of mechanical stapling systems, it is also z. B. from the DE 36 22 213 A1 (Applicant: Alfred Tevis GmbH, filing date: July 2, 1986) known to arrange a hose-like transmission element between a fitting and an axle fixed part, so a spring plate, that by a pneumatic or hydraulic filling of the elastic tube, a spacing between the fitting and spring plate can be changed. Furthermore, it is customary, the spring plate as a rubber-elastic unit such. B. in the DE 77 10 534 U1 (Applicant: Adam Opel AG, filing date: April 2, 1977), so that a first rubber-elastic ring is interposed between a bottom part and a flange leading away therefrom, and a second elastic ring is arranged between the spring and the flange. Will turn the teachings of DE 36 22 213 A1 and DE 77 10 534 U1 combined, one arrives at a similar object, as he in the 2 and 3 of the DE 197 48 634 A1 (Applicant: Audi AG, filing date: 4 November 1997). The spring plate with resting damping ring has been additionally provided with a high-pressure hose for receiving viscous, incompressible liquids therefore, so that a Schrägauslenkung the damping cylinder of a McPherson strut can be compensated by one-sided spring loading with a pressure.

Furthermore, let the special embodiment of the end of a strut according to the 1 . 2 and 5 of the DE 199 21 695 A1 (Applicant: SKF France, priority date: 14 May 1998). The drawings represent ends that can be made of a plurality of sheet metal parts, wherein an elastomeric block cohesively forms a damping element with the surfaces of the various seating surfaces of the sheet metal parts.

In the figures of DE 698 11 118 T2 (Patentee: Renault S. as; priority date: 27.10.1997) is a vibration damper movement direction obliquely mounted on a pipe spring plate with a damping elastomer in the form of a ring, wherein the elastomer is matched as closely as possible to the existing edge shape and through a lip is turned up on the side wall of the spring plate.

Similar in the DE 698 11 118 T2 will also be in the DE 1 884 119 U1 (Applicant: SAG A S. p.A., Date of entry: 05.12.1963) proposed to provide a rubber ring as a support surface for the suspension spring with ribs. The ring is different from the rings after the DE 698 11 118 T2 multilayered with a washer in a kind of "sandwich" build.

The DE 603 12 774 T2 (Patentee: Allevard Rejna Autosuspensions, priority date: 13.06.2002) explains the previously presented solutions to attach a rubber-like pad on a spring plate primarily for noise reduction, as highly error-prone, because in the recesses of the rubber residues may form. Therefore, it is proposed in the patent, aufzustecken a staple-like stiffening means at the end of a spring on the side of the spring so that the stiffening means the spring end spaced from the spring plate leads.

In a U-shaped spring plate can gem. DE 195 16 271 A1 (Applicant: Mercedes-Benz AG, filing date: 09.05.1995) an elastic material, such as a rubber, are introduced in a clamping seat-like arrangement, wherein the rubber is provided with different thicknesses along its annular course to substantially the same pitch as the to have enclosing coil spring.

Instead of equipping the rubber-like material with a corresponding slope, gem. WO 2005/035 282 A1 (Applicant: Allevard Rejna Autosuspensions; priority date: 09.10.2003) also the resilient material with a sufficient elasticity can be chosen so that the material can reshape deflections.

Multi-level or otherwise in height differently shaped rubbery Federendaufnahmen can also be in US 2007/194 507 A1 (Assignee: Tokai Rubber Industries, priority date: 21.02.2006), US 2008/290 572 A1 (Assignee: Renault SAS; priority date: 14.12.2005) and US 6,254,072 B1 (Patent owner: DaimlerChrysler Corp., filing date: 21.07.1999).

A tensioning system for a strut is used in the EP 1 900 482 A1 (Applicant: Klann Spezial-Werkzeugbau GmbH, filing date: 29.08.2007) in which a nut in axial extension offers a spindle drive.

All previously mentioned references are in relation to their Revelation scope to McPherson suspensions and suspensions similar to McPherson systems are fully incorporated into the present invention description included to the basic design options of Vehicle spring systems to which the present invention is applicable or installable, although to have described, but the present Description readable and compact.

It can be stated that it has been customary, either on one side the ends in the transition area between a spring plate and a coil spring for positional adjustment specially compensate or provide additional damping elements and on the other hand electromechanical or pneumatic or provide hydraulic Lageregulierungen. While many the solutions of the latter type only for trucks are suitable, the solutions of the first kind are possible flat and compact. A suitable solution that both in lowered passenger cars and in trucks alike can be used in principle, is not known if The desire for simple, mechanical solutions has the upper hand wins.

invention description

The Task is solved by a spring extension according to claim 1. A corresponding extension can be in a suspension strut or a motor vehicle suspension be used according to claim 7. An assembly method of an inventive Fortsatzes in a conventional vehicle suspension may claim 10 are taken. Advantageous developments can be the refer to dependent claims.

Of the inventive extension of a coil spring, in particular a vehicle-suitable motor vehicle coil spring is for attachment to one to one end of the coil spring reaching spring section suitable. The extension is for a connection to a transverse diameter of an annular Coil spring wire of the coil spring intended. By the connection possibility the extension to the helical spring wire, the extension advantageously be retrofitted with little effort.

According to the invention the extension of two parallel extension sections. An extension section is a fundamental block. You could also speak of a foundation. The other extension section is a U-shaped surround.

you can with regard to the attachment of the extension to a coil spring speak of the extension directions of a coil spring. The extension directions the coil spring are those Windungsverläufe or spring courses the helical spring wire in the region of the axial ends of a helical spring, where the U-shaped enclosure as an extension section attachable.

The U-shaped frame stands on one side of the foundation out. The constructive training of foundation on the one hand and U-shaped enclosure on the other hand allows Advantageously, the combinable assignment of the two essential Functions of the extension, namely Auflagerung on the Semi-trailer and connection to the coil spring, to two connectable Fortsatzabschnitten, of which thus each one purposefully for the respective function - bearing or connection - can be interpreted.

The U-shaped enclosure is in its clear width between two legs of the U-shaped enclosure on the transverse diameter matched to the coil spring wire. The connection function is thus advantageously targeted for a given coil spring formable. The helical spring wire is thus advantageously up to a gear of the coil spring of the extension form-fitting einfassbar.

Of the Fundamental block can be on the side facing away from the enclosure the spring force frictionally on a weiterführendes Transfer component. The continuing component For example, it can be a semi-trailer or a spring plate. The Auflagerfunktion is thus advantageously targeted for a given trailer can be formed.

Of the Extension has a maladjusted to a spring plate, in particular coextensive, surface design. The surface design preferably extends in the extension of a suspension gear. Spring plates usually have surface shapes, such as grooves that some manufacturers try to to turn off an unlicensed secondary supplier on the market. By the same area along the feather, but unadapted to a spring plate, you could also say unified or evened or contourless, Training, the invention can be Extension advantageously together with all available on the market Use spring plates.

Farther Preferably, the extension corresponds in its hollow cylinder-like Thickness of a total thickness between the inside and the outside the clear width and the thickness of the legs in a tolerance band of +/- 10%.

Of the Extension has advantageously a circular arc Shape. Due to the circular arc shape is the extension advantageously slightly to the winding contour in the extension direction connectable at the end of a coil spring.

Of the Extension can be closed in particular ring-like. In this Case, the extension forms a ring. The ring structure is advantageous particularly well suited to hold one end of a coil spring firmly. A flat or corrugated ring structure advantageously has an increased dimensional stability.

Preferably is formed in the case of ring-like training, the inner wall of the Rings from a free side of the foundation and an outside of a Leg of the U-shaped mount. The inner wall of the Rings and an outside of the thigh are so formed that a dimensionally larger hose-like interior compared to an outside diameter of a vibration damper is to be removed, which is considered to belong to the extension will, is present. Thus, between a retractable vibration damper and the interior of a mantle surface-like cavity can be formed. The ring advantageously extends the coil spring dimensionally stable in the axial direction, the spacing from the inner wall advantageously the insertion of a vibration damper with little effort possible.

The U-shaped surround and the foundation are so on top of each other tuned that a foundation of an extension between the Legs of the U-shaped border of another extension, in particular in a form-fitting manner, for. B. by internal surfaces the thigh, is insertable. This is advantageously a Doubling the extension increase allows.

through Cascading several extensions can advantageously view a multiplication of the extension increase to reach. A cascading of several extensions can as Extension cascade be called.

Of the Extension is made of an elastically deformable material such as a synthetic hard rubber formed. The elastically deformable Material allows a springy energy absorption in the longitudinal direction. The resilient energy absorption by the elastically deformable material the extension occurs in particular after exceeding a Minimum force in effect. Due to the elastically deformable Training and the resilient energy absorption can advantageously a lowered for lowering the vehicle coil spring piece substituted in its spring action in the desired manner and the suspension behavior of the by the extension or a continuation cascade extended spring travel can be adjusted specifically.

The Foundation can advantageously be a solid part. The massive part advantageously goes in one piece in the thighs over. By such training advantageously succeeds in the formation of a Fortsatzes, the static and dynamic support forces can safely hold and which has a long shelf life and functionality having.

Of the Extension may have a stop at at least one end. Also can have two stops at both ends of the extension be provided. The stop can be in the shape of a cap or be designed a lid. In the massive part can also be Be incorporated thread. The thread becomes an anchoring element z. B. a countersunk screw, screwed. Just as well can the lid be designed with a thread for screwing into the solid part. The solid element such as lid, anchor or cap provides a grip. The extension is supported on the element an underlying component such as the semitrailer. The extension does not have to be the same length in terms of its sections. One of the two sections may be shorter than the other Be section. So the section that z. B. as a solid part is designed to be shorter than the section that the U-shaped leg has. A difference between The two sections can be about 5 mm to each other. The one Section is in continuous extension up to 5 mm beyond the other section. The coil springs experienced shear forces. The shear forces increase a lateral breakout of the vehicle in which the extension installed is at. Are the shear forces by the anchor-like element intercepted, it reduces the lateral outbreaks of the Vehicle or promotes the directional stability of the vehicle. The coil spring twists less. The end stop prevents a hiking, especially the coil spring. One of the semitrailers is often rotatably mounted. One of the semi-trailers is common fixedly arranged. Sometimes the trailer is not complete aligned vertically. By tracking settings will be bad adjusted semi-trailer compensated. By anchor or end stop Can be reduced tilting of the spring with the spring extension.

The extension according to the invention can advantageously with little effort in a drive factory suspension be installed. Such suspension suspension has a coil spring, a first semi-trailer, a second semi-trailer and an extension according to the invention for the coil spring.

The Suspension suspension according to the invention is characterized characterized in that the extension as laterally to the coil spring subsequent intermediate layer between one end of the coil spring and a trailer spacing the trailer from the coil spring. If we are talking about "sideways", that is meant a connection at the (axial) ends of the coil spring. This makes it possible, a greater length between the first semi-trailer and the second semi-trailer and thus the travel of the vehicle suspension advantageously with to extend little effort.

advantageously, extends the extension of an inventive Springs suspension, the coil spring in the winding direction in the Coil spring clinging way. The extension can thus advantageously to the Windungsverlauf or gradient course of one end of the coil spring adapted to be trained.

there is preferably the extension by a distance between two Thighs a U-shaped section to a transverse diameter a coil spring wire of the coil spring tuned. These Voting is such that the coil spring by their ends the Extension in spring damping direction of the coil spring holds. Thus, the extension with the spring in alignment advantageously to form a tubular piece. The targeted vote advantageously allows the temporary safe and detachable connection of the extension to the coil spring.

at the suspension of the invention is advantageously at least one of the semitrailer multilayered. A semi-trailer may be designed in particular plate-like. A multi-layered trained semi-trailer is advantageously in particular with a damping layer and a hard metal layer built up. Due to the multi-layered training, the Spring or support forces safely received and targeted influenced in their size and their course, d. H. supported or damped.

The The invention comprises a method for height level adjustments suspension suspensions. The method is particularly suitable for height level adjustments of a McPherson strut a suspension of the invention. The The inventive method comprises three steps. There is a gain in altitude in the chassis suspension by first, a tensioning of a coil spring. The tensioning of the coil spring causes a lifting of the coil spring of a semi-trailer. Secondly the method according to the invention comprises an attachment a spring extension according to the invention on the one end of the coil spring. As a result, the coil spring comes between Thighs of the extension to lie. Third, the invention includes Procedure a release of the coil spring until the coil spring by means of the extension frictionally on the trailer supported.

One Another advantage of the present invention can also be seen therein be that the spring characteristic or the vibration damping property of the motor vehicle are positively influenced by the extension can. Depending on the material used and height or rigidity of the extension, the spring characteristic can be adjusted. So even the slightest shocks can be caused by be added to the extension. In cases where The spring is almost max. tensioned, can be additional Motor energy is introduced into the extension by a material is chosen with a shape stability factor, from a certain force acting perpendicularly on it laterally - here in the sense of radially outward and inward - to be performed Perform evasive movements (in the sense of compression) can. Is a sound absorbing material for used the extension, for example, a hard rubber, so are metallic Beat noises between the usually spring steel produced coil spring and the spring plate avoided. plate slopes of the trailer can be compensated by the spring extension. There are motor vehicle manufacturers who are aftermarket from spring suppliers through special plate shapes access want to complicate. Through the extension is cleared up with this practice. The two metallic components semi-trailer or plate on the one Side and coil spring on the other side are from each other spaced. The spring extension is exclusively on adjusted the spring strength. The plate shape is of lesser Importance. Unevenness of the plate can be compensated become. The spring extension is on the spring through the recess width Voted. The side of the spring extension that rests on the plate can be designed almost arbitrarily. The design of the spring extension is insignificant for the high precision requirements. To a certain extent, he does not have to replicate the plate or be reshaped.

Another advantage is the damping or braking guidance of the coil spring, when the individual passages or loops of the coil spring begin, the enclosure of the coil spring, so the lateral legs of the Fe of the extension, the next gait or the next loop. In the case, the lateral enclosure dampens the U-shaped receptacle, ie the leg, of the extension.

Of the Extension is so universally designed that it is between both Semi-trailer and lower spring end of the coil spring as well as between upper Semi-trailer and upper end of the coil spring can be arranged. The usual special designs of semitrailers, z. B. spring plates are provided with special grooves and register increases, remain irrelevant. The extension is almost universally applicable. It can use an extension for different models become. The extension is tuned to the spring. The extension is but not matched to the trailer. The extension is thus independent of motor vehicle manufacturer, in particular in the sense a retrofit, can be used. Typical spring sizes are springs of 16 mm diameter. Typical spring heights go up to 1000 mm. The extension needs only to the diameter be matched to the spring. Whether the spring plate has a diameter of 20 mm, 30 mm or more is insignificant.

The Shape of the extension is designed pluggable. Single rings one Fortsatzes can be a next ring between pick up her thighs.

Of the Installation of the spring extensions is easy and can be done quickly be performed. It no longer needs the entire strut get extended. The mounting method is characterized by a spring-barless installation out. A spring is from one of its two spring plates by a Spring ranges so far lift that a fitter laterally the spring extension can push. One half of the spring extension is attached to individual gears of the coil spring. After a relaxation of the tensioned spring, so that the spring itself moved back to the spring plate, the spring extension is located on one side on the plate and on the other side clings he at the end of the coil spring. Within a few minutes Mounting a lowered vehicle can restore its original height accept. If the vehicle is lowered again, it must the respective coil spring again by clamping the spring plate can be lifted and then the spring extension of the end the coil spring are removed. The height regulation can be carried out in the installed state within the motor vehicle. The strut remains in its installed position.

One Another advantage of the present invention is that the spring extension to compensate for usual subsidence can be used. Feathers settle over time. So is It is known that vehicles, for example, placed 40 mm lower have fallen by another 10 mm over the course of a year. Becomes the height level of the vehicle already at the bottom, possible edge settling, putting can lead to a vehicle no longer has sufficient ground clearance and therefore no longer operational is. The additional setting can be done within a few Minutes offset by up to four spring extensions later become. In the same sense can run permanently Overloads of the vehicle can be compensated without new springs must be installed for the vehicle. Become For example, LPG systems later in a vehicle trunk installed, so the weight of the vehicle i increases. d. R. by more than 50 kg. The rear part of the vehicle sinks in Follow the gas tank. Be at least in the rear part of the Vehicle, so in the struts of the rear axle spring extensions like the spring extensions according to the invention used, so the sinking of the vehicle can be compensated. Due to the increase usual passenger cars also decrease experience about 10 mm from. This means a corresponding spring extension should have at least a height of 8 mm or 10 mm.

A cause for a lateral breakaway of a vehicle can be found in the asymmetrical configuration of the spring. Do not run the spring ends symmetrical, z. B. 180 ° opposite in different levels, from, so the chassis tends to one side. This leads to a delay of the vehicle in a lateral direction. This situation can be prevented by a spring wire extension. The U-shaped legs can accommodate a plug. The plug can be inserted between the U-shaped legs. The spring extension extends beyond the end of the coil spring. The empty end of the spring extension is filled with a length-adjustable plug. For example, the plug may be truncated in approximately the same thickness as the spring wire. The spring wire has the same cross diameter as the stopper. The spring wire is extended by the stopper. The spring wire and the plug are between the thighs. Even not aligned coil springs, z. B. inferior springs, can be subsequently improved with the help of one or more plugs. The spring length can be tuned, in particular by the length of the stopper. To set the plug can be provided in the spring extension piercing holes through which a pin or a Poppniete can be pushed through. The plug is fixed by the rivet. The plug is located in the end of the spring extension. By transverse locking means such as pins, z. B. two pins, stopper and spring extension are fixed connected with each other. The one or more locking means are perpendicular to the extension of the stopper. The end can also be reinforced by the anchor or the stop. The anchor can be a molded end. The anchor may also be a metal cap, the z. B. is vulcanized. The metal cap may be injected in the spring extension. With the help of the plug and possibly the anchor the breaking out of the vehicle from the directional stability is reduced. The tracking stability is improved. Even tolerance-related springs, in particular with respect to the spring lengths, can be improved. The plug can take lengths between 5 mm and 50 mm. A standard stopper, the z. B. 50 mm long, can be tuned in length by cutting. Such lengths do not distort the spring behavior very much. At the same time the plug improves the positional stability of the spring and thus of the chassis. Steering forces are balanced with the help of one or two plugs. Due to the suspension gear, a spring is usually not quite vertical. By the plug, the vertical position is taken easier.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the legs also be different in length. The massive block, the fundamental one Base, and the legs are integrally made of a metal such as B. aluminum. The thighs open in an uneven mouth or clear space. The on the inside circumferential leg does not have the same height as the outer thigh to have. The outer leg can be higher.

Of the Extension sees in one embodiment on one side, preferably the underside of the extension is like a replicated spring out. The lower half of the extension has the shape of a cut longitudinally, in particular halved Spring wire. On the other hand, preferably the top is, the extension has a trough-like design. Wherein trough-like in the sense that it is a rounded recording form with lateral thighs.

The Bottom is in an insert of the extension at the upper end of the spring, So between the upper spring end and upper spring plate, the top of the extension, because the extension installed in an inverted position is.

In a further advantageous embodiment is on the spring simulated side of a groove. The groove is for the recording a damping rubber circumferentially in the annular shaped or curved block. The damping rubber covers Advantageously, only underside of the foundation-like base. This represents a material-saving and at the same time the noise behavior, such as B. beating and knocking noise reducing, improving Measure dar.

Of the Extension is increasing the pitch of the receiving suspension suspension of the motor vehicle. The extension can thus the rounding follow the lowermost gear of the suspension spring in an apposite manner. The depression of the trough-like receptacle is compared to the receiving spring rounded weaker, so that a wider trough than the surface of the lower spring results.

In In another embodiment, the extension is not complete closed. The extension is an open ring, whose Ends lie in different levels. The extension spans almost a circuit, it covers an angular range between 300 ° and 350 °.

Of the Extension can be completed on one side by a stop become. The einzulegende coil spring is by the stop prevented from lateral emigration.

Of the Extension can also be described as a distance spiral. The extension is in parallel attachment to the lowest gear or top gear of the spring to increase the Achsialerstreckung the suspension spring determined. The extension extends the enveloping shape of the spring, the tunnel-like shape, in lateral extent.

Of the Extension can also be referred to as a spacer ring. The extension can also be used as an open spring bearing by non-positive Attachment be designated. The extension has a height, so that the height of the suspension spring at least one more Spring gear lengthened in the longitudinal direction. The Spring is continued in the longitudinal direction. The height of the extension exceeds the height or the diameter of the spring wire. The height of the extension is larger as the diameter of the wound steel of the spring.

Of the Extension serves as an additional intermediate layer between the Spring plate with its usual damping layers and cover rubbers and the actual suspension spring. The liner extends the spring. The intermediate layer serves as a spring extension. The spring extension is so universally designed that in the damping mat of any spring plate can intervene.

Suspensions are often lowered by the fact that the suspension springs be shortened. Instead of the spring wire in the winding direction The entire spring will continue through the extension in its Involute structure extended.

The Invention can not only be found in conventional passenger cars, but also in elevators, forklifts, trucks and trailers such as semi-trailers for goods transport be used.

figure description

The Invention can be better understood when reference to the enclosed figures, wherein

1 3 is an oblique view of a first embodiment of an extension according to the invention as part of a strut with vibration damper,

2 an oblique view of the detail A from 1 .

3 2 is an oblique view of a second embodiment of an extension according to the invention designed as a solid part as part of a suspension strut with a vibration damper,

4 an oblique view of the extension 3 and a part of the coil spring,

5 3 is an oblique view of a third annular embodiment of an extension according to the invention as part of a strut with vibration damper,

6 an oblique view of an embodiment of a suspension according to the invention with three inventive extensions as part of a strut with two semi-trailers and a vibration damper,

7 a cross section through the two upper extensions and the coil spring 6 .

8th a spring extension with a plug,

9 a slightly different spring extension with a plug,

10 a further embodiment of an extension with a spring plate and a spring,

11 an enlarged section of the end of the extension after 10 of area A
shows.

following be three embodiments of the invention Extension and an embodiment of an inventive Chassis suspension described in more detail with reference to the figures.

The figures 1 and 2 show a first embodiment of an extension according to the invention 1 , The extension 1 Here is part of a strut, of which only the lower spring plate 62 , the extension 1 and part of the coil spring 4 , as well as the lower part of a vibration damper 92 is shown.

The extension 1 supports the coil spring 4 against the spring plate 62 from. The coil spring 4 , the extension 1 and the vibration damper 92 stand by the spring plate 62 along the longitudinal direction 104 the coil spring 4 from.

The extension 1 is formed in a circular arc. The extension 1 lies on the spring plate 62 , which as a continuing component 60 acts on. The extension 1 is at one to an end 8th the coil spring 4 reaching feather section 12 appropriate.

The spring section 12 is for connection to a transverse diameter 16 an annular coil spring wire 20 the coil spring 4 certainly.

In 1 is a dashed ellipse with the reference A attracted, which the in 2 delimited detailed view delimits. As in particular from 2 can be seen, there is the extension 1 from two parallel extension sections 24 . 28 , The extension section 24 is as a fundamental block 32 educated. The other extension section 28 is as a U-shaped mount 36 educated. The U-shaped surround 36 stands from one side 40 of the foundation 32 out.

The U-shaped surround 36 has two legs 48 . 52 on. The U-shaped surround 36 is in its clear width 44 between the two thighs 48 . 52 the U-shaped surround 36 on the transverse diameter 16 of the coil spring wire 20 Voted.

The spring section 12 the coil spring 4 is up to a corridor 56 the coil spring 4 from the extension 1 form-fitting einfassbar. The fundamental block 32 transfers to the facing 36 opposite side 41 the spring force frictionally on the continuing component 60 , The continuing component 60 acts as a semi-trailer 61 , The further component is in the first embodiment as a spring plate 62 executed.

The extension 1 lies in the first embodiment with its foundation 32 , more precisely with its facing 36 opposite side 41 in a plane on the spring plate 62 on.

The extension 1 has one on the spring plate 62 unadjusted surface design, ie the extension 1 is, especially along the side 41 , designed so that it despite different contact surface condition of the continuing component 60 can perform its function. The surface design of the extension 1 is the same as the spring plate 62 designed to allow the extension 1 can optimally fulfill its support function. The surface design of the extension 1 extends in the extension of a suspension gear 64 the coil spring.

How out 2 can be seen corresponds to the extension 1 in its hollow cylindrical thickness of a total thickness between the inside and the outside of the clear width 44 and the thicknesses 45 the thigh 48 . 52 , This fit can be done advantageously in a tolerance band of +/- 10%.

The figures 3 and 4 show a second embodiment of an extension according to the invention 1 , Here is the spring plate 62 as a continuing component 60 on which the coil spring 4 indirectly over the extension 1 supported, in contrast to the first embodiment in itself to the gear constant rising winding course of the coil spring 4 formed conforming. Both the spring plate 62 as well as the coil spring 4 , as well as the extension 1 as an intermediate layer, have a paired together adjoining course. The extension 1 , in particular its underside 41 , are not trained here.

Furthermore, the extension 1 according to the second embodiment with a foundation 32 equipped, which is a solid part. Like from both figures 3 and 4 is apparent, the fundamental block goes 32 in the second embodiment of the extension 1 in one piece in the thighs 48 . 52 above.

5 shows a third embodiment of the extension 1 which in turn is in a strut with a coil spring 4 and a vibration damper 92 is installed. For better clarity, only parts of the coil spring 4 and the vibration damper 92 shown.

Again, the extension 1 circular arc-shaped, but the circular arc shape is closed in contrast to the first two embodiments here in itself. The shape of the extension 1 is closed like a ring. The shape of the extension 1 forms a ring 80 , The ring 80 offers a particularly advantageous structural strength of the extension 1 ,

The inner wall 76 of the ring 80 forms out of a free side 42 of the foundation 32 and an outside 85 a thigh, here's the thigh 52 , the U-shaped surround 36 , The coil spring 4 includes a tubular interior 84 , The tubular interior 84 takes in its axial center the vibration damper 92 on. The U-shaped surround 36 is formed so that the dimensionally larger tubular interior 84 compared to an outside diameter 88 that of the vibration damper 92 is available, is available. The vibration damper 92 becomes as the extension 1 considered belonging. Between the retractable vibration damper 92 and the interior 84 a shell-like cavity forms 96 out.

The figures 6 and 7 show an embodiment of a suspension of the invention 108 , more precisely the majority of a strut suspension suspension 108 , The suspension suspension 108 shows each strut, of which only one is shown, three different extensions 1 . 2 and 3 on.

The suspension suspension 108 has each spring strut a coil spring 4 on. Furthermore, each strut is a first, lower, semi-trailer 140 and a second, upper, semi-trailer 144 available.

The extension 1 is as a lateral, ie at one axial end 8th , here the upper end 8th , the coil spring, to the coil spring 4 subsequent liner 112 between the end 8th the coil spring 4 and the upper semi-trailer 144 educated. The extension 1 spaces the upper trailer 144 from the coil spring 4 , In an analogous way it is with the extensions 2 and 3 ,

The two upper processes 1 and 2 are formed as upper annular spacers. The lower extension 3 is as the course of the winding course of the coil spring 4 and the lower semi-trailer 140 compliant component executed.

By cascading the extensions 1 . 2 and 3 succeeds in a larger longitudinal extent between the first semi-trailer 140 and the second semi-trailer 144 to create. By the targeted arrangement of the extensions 1 . 2 and 3 can be the relative position of the coil spring 4 to the semitrailers 140 . 144 be influenced in the desired manner.

The U-shaped surround 36 and the foundation 32 the two upper processes 1 and 2 are so coordinated that the foundation 32 of the extension 1 between the thighs 48 . 52 the U-shaped surround 36 the further extension 2 is insertable ( 7 ).

This insertion takes place here in a form-fitting manner, through inner surfaces 100 the thigh 48 . 52 ( 7 ). This is with regard to on the extensions 1 and 2 doubling the extension increase allows.

At the suspension suspension 108 extend the extension 1 and the extension 3 the coil spring 4 in the winding direction 116 in to the coil spring 4 clinging way. The extension 1 and the extension 3 are by a distance between two thighs 48 . 52 their respective U-shaped section 36 on the transverse diameter 16 of the coil spring wire 20 the coil spring 4 Voted. The vote is such that the coil spring 4 through their ends 8th the extension 1 and the extension 3 in spring damping direction 128 the coil spring 4 holds.

The extension 1 forms with the spring aligned a tubular piece, one could also speak of a structural unit. By cascading or by the mating of the extensions 1 . 2 and 3 with the coil spring 4 arises in the illustrated embodiment of the suspension suspension 108 the tubular piece or the unit.

How out 6 is apparent, is the lower semi-trailer 140 shaped like a dish. The upper semi-trailer 144 is designed like a flat plate. The semi-trailer 140 is multi-layered. The semi-trailer 144 Here is also a multi-layered structure. In the embodiment shown, the semitrailers 140 . 144 constructed in two layers. The extension 3 facing side of the trailer 140 , as well as the extension 2 facing side of the trailer 144 are ever with a cushioning layer 136 built up. The cushioning layer closes on the extension 2 and 3 each side facing away from a hard metallic layer 132 at.

In all embodiments presented here, the extension is 1 formed from an elastically deformable material. The elastically deformable material here is a synthetic hard rubber. The extension 1 allows by means of elastically deformable training a resilient energy absorption in the longitudinal direction 104 , in particular after exceeding a minimum force. The longitudinal direction 104 falls with the spring damping direction 128 together ( 6 ).

By means of the presented extension, a method for height level adjustments of suspension suspensions can be realized. The method and the extension are particularly suitable for McPherson struts a suspension suspension. The method essentially comprises three steps. First, a first step is performed by tensioning the coil spring 4 a shock absorber achieved a height gain, causing a lifting of the coil spring 4 from a trailer 60 . 61 . 62 . 140 . 144 is effected. In the second step, a spring extension is attached 1 . 2 . 3 on an axial end 8th the coil spring 4 , A spring extension 1 . 2 . 3 can also be attached to another extension, whereby a cascading is possible. By cascading a continuation cascade can be formed. The attachment is done in such a way that the coil spring 4 or an extension between thighs 48 . 52 of an extension 1 to come to rest. In the third step, a relaxation of the coil spring 4 until the coil spring 4 by means of the extension 1 or the continuation cascade 1 . 2 . 3 non-positively on the at least one semi-trailer 60 . 61 . 62 . 140 . 144 supported.

As in 8th shown can be the spring extension 3 with a stopper 5 be filled. The plug 5 comes with a fixing agent that passes through a hole 6 can reach through, secured against slipping. The end 8th of the extension 3 is with a stop 7 completed. The stop 7 represents a solid object. The stop 7 closes the extension 3 firmly against a contact surface such as a survey in a semi-trailer 61 from. The feather 4 gets through the plug 5 extended in a different direction than the extension 3 the feather 4 extended. The spring extension 3 is designed tunnel-like. An annular receptacle of the extension 3 will be over the spring 4 wrapped around.

As in 9 shown can be the spring extension 3 also be designed according to open above. The end 8th the feather 4 gets through the plug 5 so extended that the two ends of the spring 4 end symmetrically. The stop 7 rests on the semi-trailer 61 from. The stop 7 that's the end 4 of the spring extension 3 closes, reduces Verdrehneigung of the spring 4 , Through a penetration, like a hole 6 can be designed, is stuck through a fixing agent. The fixing means may be a rivet (not shown) or an elongated, in particular circular pin (not shown).

10 shows a further embodiment of an extension 201 when installed, so between spring plate 262 and coil spring 204 , The section A of the 10 is enlarged in 11 shown. 10 shows the coil spring 204 with its winding direction 316 , The extension 201 follow the spring 204 along almost a hallway 264 the feather. The extension 201 lies on the spring plate 262 , with the spring plate 262 also all additional components, such as pads and damping mats are counted. The feather 204 wraps along the longitudinal direction 304 continued. In the direction of the longitudinal direction 304 lengthens the extension 201 the feather 204 , The feather 204 surround the vibration damper 292 ,

As in 11 can be seen, sums up the extension 201 over the thigh 248 the coil spring wire 220 on the outer side. This is the thigh 248 pulled longer than the leg arranged on the inner side 252 , The spring wire 220 is through the thigh 248 laterally limited. The coil spring wire 220 has a transverse diameter 216 which the U-shaped mount 236 is modeled. The coil spring wire 220 resting on the foundation-like block 232 , The fundamental block 232 is predominantly a hard metallic extension 332 in which a groove is inserted, z. B. milled, is, so a damping rubber 336 can be trapped in the groove. The damping rubber 336 closes the hard metal block 332 off at its bottom. The far side 241 opens into the damping rubber 336 that in a clamp fit in the groove that the gear 264 of the extension 201 follows, sits. The upper side 240 is for taking the bottom of the spring 204 sufficiently wide designed. The extension 201 is an uneven at its edges in the thighs 248 . 242 raised solid metal block 332 , The metal block 332 made of aluminum superimposed on the spring steel of the coil spring wire 220 with the mount 236 , The surfaces of the metal block 332 are rounded. Incoming edges are located exclusively at the ends of the legs 248 and 252 ,

The cross-sectional view through the extension 201 can also be referred to as armchair-like, the fundamental block 232 forms the frame or the foot of the chair. The fundamental block 232 is with the mount 236 connected to the coil spring 204 rests. The top 240 is designed so that a recessed seat is formed, in which the coil spring 204 is included. The outer thigh 248 forms the back of the chair. The damping insert 336 is in a groove 337 that are in the fundamental block 232 is inserted, fastened. Imagine a midline through the fundamental block 232 , so are the groove 337 and thus also the damping application 336 in the middle of the foundation-like block 232 , The coil spring 204 however, does not rest in the middle of the foundation-like block 232 but is to the outer edge of the extension 201 postponed. The center of the coil spring 204 is not vertically above the groove 337 ,

The height of the extension 201 remains the same over the entire circumference, so that around the circumference around a uniform increase in the coil spring 204 is achieved. The extension 201 does not form a closed ring, but is interrupted in the manner of a spring ring and extending over approximately 45 ° range is open.

1

extension

2

extension

3

extension

4

coil spring

5

plug

6

Hole, especially for fixing agents

7

attack

8th

The End

12

spring section

16

Transverse diameter

20

Coil spring wire

24

Extension portion

28

Extension portion

32

foundation-like block

36

U-shaped mount

40

page

41

facing away page

42

free page

44

clear width

45

thickness

48

leg

52

leg

56

corridor

60

postgraduate component

61

semitrailer

62

spring plate

64

spring Power

76

inner wall

80

ring

84

inner space

85

outside

88

outer diameter

92

vibration

96

cavity

100

inner surfaces

104

longitudinal direction

108

chassis suspension

112

liner

116

winding direction

128

Spring damping direction

132

hard metallic layer

136

absorbing layer

140

first semitrailer

144

second semitrailer

201

extension

204

coil spring

216

Transverse diameter

220

Coil spring wire

232

foundation-like block

236

Mount, in particular U-shaped

240

Page, especially upper side

241

Page, especially opposite side

248

Leg, especially outer thighs

252

Leg, especially inner thighs

262

semitrailer

264

spring Power

292

vibration

304

longitudinal direction

316

winding direction

332

Hartmetallischer extension

336

Steaming commitment

337

groove

A neckline

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list The documents listed by the applicant have been automated generated and is solely for better information recorded by the reader. The list is not part of the German Patent or utility model application. The DPMA takes over no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• WO 03/022604 A2 [0005]
• - DE 19604558 C1 [0006]
• - DE 4438756 A1 [0006]
• - DE 3622213 A1 [0007, 0007]
• - DE 7710534 U1 [0007, 0007]
• DE 19748634 A1 [0007]
• - DE 19921695 A1 [0008]
• - DE 69811118 T2 [0009, 0010, 0010]
• - DE 1884119 U1 [0010]
• - DE 60312774 T2 [0011]
• DE 19516271 A1 [0012]
• WO 2005/035282 A1 [0013]
• US 2007/194507 A1 [0014]
• US 2008/290572 A1 [0014]
• - US 6254072 B1 [0014]
• - EP 1900482 A1 [0015]

Claims (10)

Extension ( 1 . 201 ) a coil spring ( 4 . 204 ) for attachment to one to one end ( 8th ) of the coil spring ( 4 . 204 ) reaching spring section ( 12 ), which is suitable for connection to a transverse diameter ( 16 . 216 ) of an annular coil spring wire ( 20 . 220 ) of the coil spring ( 4 . 204 ), the extension ( 1 . 201 ) of two parallel extension sections ( 24 . 28 ), of which one extension section ( 24 ) a fundamental block ( 32 . 232 ), and the other extension section ( 28 ) an edging ( 36 . 236 ), which is from one side ( 40 . 240 ) of the foundation ( 32 . 232 ), characterized in that the enclosure ( 36 . 236 ) by their clear width ( 44 ) between two legs ( 48 . 52 ; 248 . 252 ) of the enclosure ( 36 . 236 ) trough-like the transverse diameter ( 16 . 216 ) of the coil spring wire ( 20 . 220 ) so that it can reach a corridor ( 56 ) of the coil spring ( 4 . 204 ) of the extension ( 1 . 201 ) so that the fundamental block ( 32 . 232 ) at the Mount ( 36 . 236 ) facing away ( 41 . 241 ) the spring force frictionally on a continuing component ( 60 . 262 ), for which the extension ( 1 . 201 ) has an unadjusted surface design which results in the extension of a suspension gear ( 64 . 264 ) extends, can transmit. Extension ( 1 . 201 ) according to claim 1, characterized in that the extension ( 1 . 201 ) in its hollow cylindrical thickness of a total thickness between the inside and the outside of the clear width ( 44 ) and the thicknesses ( 45 ) of the thighs ( 48 . 52 ; 248 . 252 ) in a tolerance band of +/- 10%. Extension ( 1 . 201 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the extension ( 1 . 201 ) has a circular arc shape with a gradient, wherein an inner wall ( 76 ) of a ring ( 80 ) from a free page ( 42 ) of the foundation ( 32 . 232 ) and an outside ( 85 ) of a thigh ( 48 . 52 ; 248 . 252 ) of the enclosure ( 36 . 236 ), which are formed so that a dimensionally larger hose-like interior ( 84 ) compared to an outer diameter ( 88 ), of a vibration damper ( 92 . 292 ), which leads to the extension ( 1 . 201 ) is present, so that between a retractable vibration damper ( 92 . 292 ) and an interior ( 84 ) a shell-like cavity ( 96 ) is bildbar. Extension ( 1 . 201 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the enclosure ( 36 . 236 ) and the foundation ( 32 . 232 ) are coordinated so that a foundation ( 32 . 232 ) of the one extension ( 1 . 201 ) between the thighs ( 48 . 52 ; 248 . 252 ) of the enclosure ( 36 . 236 ) of a further extension ( 2 ) is inserted, so that a doubling of an extension of the vibration damper ( 92 . 292 ). Extension ( 1 . 201 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the extension ( 1 . 201 ) is formed of an elastically deformable material such as a synthetic hard rubber, which has a resilient energy absorption in the longitudinal direction ( 104 . 304 ), in particular after exceeding a minimum force, allows. Extension ( 1 . 201 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the foundation ( 32 . 232 ) is a solid part, which is integral with the legs ( 48 . 52 ; 248 . 252 ), and preferably the extension ( 1 . 201 ) has a stop at at least one end. Suspension suspension ( 108 ) with a coil spring ( 4 . 201 ), a first semi-trailer ( 140 ), a second semi-trailer ( 144 ) and an extension ( 1 . 201 ), in particular according to one of the preceding claims, for the helical spring ( 4 . 204 ), characterized in that the extension ( 1 . 201 ) as the side of the coil spring ( 4 . 204 ) subsequent intermediate layer ( 112 ) between one end ( 8th ) of the coil spring ( 4 . 204 ) and a semi-trailer ( 140 . 144 ) the semi-trailer ( 140 . 144 ) of the coil spring ( 4 . 204 ) spaced to a greater longitudinal extent between the first semi-trailer ( 140 ) and the second semi-trailer ( 144 ) to create. Suspension suspension ( 108 ) according to claim 7, characterized in that the extension ( 1 . 201 ) the coil spring ( 4 . 204 ) in the winding direction ( 116 . 316 ) in to the coil spring ( 4 . 204 ) extended cuddly manner, wherein preferably the extension ( 1 . 201 ) by a distance between two legs ( 48 . 52 ; 248 . 252 ) of a section ( 36 . 236 ) to a transverse diameter ( 16 . 216 ) of a coil spring wire ( 20 . 220 ) of the coil spring ( 4 . 204 ) is tuned in its width, thus the coil spring ( 4 . 204 ) through their ends ( 8th ) the extension ( 1 . 201 ) in spring damping direction ( 128 ) of the coil spring ( 4 . 204 ) and the extension ( 1 . 201 ) in alignment with the spring forms a tubular piece. Suspension suspension ( 108 ) according to one of the preceding claims 7 to 8, characterized in that at least one of the semi-trailers ( 140 . 144 ) multilayered with a damping layer ( 136 . 336 ) and a hard metal layer ( 132 . 332 ), is constructed. A method for height level adjustments of suspensions in a motor vehicle built state, in particular a McPherson suspension strut of a suspension suspensions according to one of claims 7 to 9, in which a gain in height in the suspension suspension by firstly tensioning a coil spring ( 4 . 204 ), which is a lifting of the coil spring ( 4 . 204 ) of a semi-trailer ( 60 . 61 . 62 . 140 . 144 ; 262 ) causes, secondly a plugging a spring extension ( 1 . 201 ), in particular according to one of claims 1 to 6, to which one end ( 8th ) of the coil spring ( 4 . 204 ) by the coil spring ( 4 . 204 ) between thighs ( 48 . 52 ; 248 . 252 ) of the extension ( 1 . 201 ) comes to rest, and thirdly a relaxation of the coil spring ( 4 . 204 ) until the coil spring ( 4 . 204 ) by means of the extension ( 1 . 201 ) non-positively on the semi-trailer ( 60 . 61 . 62 . 140 . 144 ; 262 ) is supported.