MXPA00005490A - Assembly for mounting a silencer, method and apparatus thereof. - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention describes a mounting band to be used with a silencer which includes an arcuate continuous strip having first and second ends. The strip is positioned in extension peripherally around the silencer. The first and second ends of the strip are jointly secured in a union to retain the strip as a continuous band around the silencer. A hanger is secured to a continuous portion of the strip in a place apart from the union or stitching.

Description

ASSEMBLY FOR MOUNTING A SILENCER, METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR ASSEMBLING THE SAME Field of the invention The present invention concerns the silencers. In particular it is concerned with methods and apparatus for mounting silencers. The arrangements are concerned in particular with the mounting of large mufflers (25.4 cm (10 inches) in outer diameter or greater) in vehicles such as trucks, in a horizontal position.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION In general, truck silencers are generally cylindrical or oval bodies. They weigh normally 11 Kg. (25 pounds) or more, frequently 13.6-22.7 Kg. (30-50 pounds). Many such mufflers are mounted horizontally below the truck frame. A wide variety of muffler mounting arrangements have been used. In general, a horizontally mounted muffler requires at least two hanging points. These are generally created by assembling two bands around the outer periphery of the muffler. The bands are secured in general around the silencer either by bolts or welds. The bands generally include two hanging supports on them. The REF. 120394 silencer is normally suspended under the frame by means of two hanging brackets. Improved arrangements have been sought with respect to factors such as: strength, cost of materials and ease of assembly.

Summary of the North American patent application No. series 08 / 977,174 According to the disclosure of the US patent application Serial No. 08 / 977,174, a combination of a silencer and a mounting band is provided. The muffler is normally to be secured in a hanging orientation. The mounting band is constructed and arranged to secure the muffler in a hanging orientation, preferably, the mounting band comprises a continuous arched metal strip having first and second ends. The continuous arcuate metal strip is positioned in extension peripherally around the muffler. The first and second ends of the metal strip are preferably welded together to retain the metal strip as a continuous band around the silencer. The mounting band also includes a hook secured to a continuous portion of the metal strip. Preferably, the hook is radially centered along the strip at a location at approximately 150 ° to 210 ° from the weld.

In certain preferred arrangements, the hanging support includes an arched base and a central projection. Preferably, the arched base of the hanging support extends between opposite ends in an arc of about 35 ° to 50 °. Preferably, the arched base of the hanging support extends, between opposite ends, over an arcuate distance of about 7.6-12.7 cm (3-5 inches). In some preferred embodiments, the hanging support comprises a single extension of a folded metal strip. This provides, among other things, a convenient manufacturing process. In other embodiments, the hanging support comprises a single metallic piece of powder. Preferably, the central projection of the hanging support includes an opening of the hanging support therethrough. This allows the combination to be suspended from a truck frame by means of coupling between the opening of the hanging support and several clamps, mounting hooks or other structural features on a truck. In preferred arrangements, the arched base of the hanging support includes first and second base segments. Preferably, the first and second base segments extend arcuately in generally opposite directions of the central projection of the hanging support. The first base segment preferably includes a first tip and opposite side edges. Preferably, the opposite lateral edges of the first base segment taper with each other at positions thereof adjacent to the first tip. The second base segment preferably includes a second tip and opposite side edges. Preferably, the opposite side edges of the second base segment taper each other in positions thereof adjacent to the first tip. In certain preferred embodiments, the opposite side edges of the first base segment taper each other along concave edge portions directed inwardly and the opposite side edges of the second base segment taper each other along edge portions. Concave directed inwards. In some preferred arrangements, the first and second ends of the metal strip are welded together along a seam or overlap joint. The axial length of the weld is preferably in the range of about 1.9 to 3.2 cm (0.75 to 1.25 inches). Preferably, the metal strip is approximately 3.8 to 6.35 cm (1.5 to 2.5 inches) wide and 14 gauge thick. In certain preferred embodiments, the base of the hanging support has a width in a direction orthogonal to its arched extension direction no greater than about 90% of the width of the metal strip. According to the disclosure of the US patent application Serial No. 08 / 977,174, a method for mounting a silencer is provided. In general, the method comprises mounting a muffler in a horizontal orientation to a truck by positioning a continuous metal strip circumferentially around the muffler, wherein the metal strip has first and second ends welded together to retain the metal strip as a continuous band around of the silencer. In addition, the step includes securing a hanging support to the truck, wherein the hanging support is secured to a continuous portion of the metal strip at a location approximately 150 ° -210 ° from the welding of the metal strip ends.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION In accordance with the present disclosure, a mounting band is provided for use with a silencer. The mounting band includes a continuous arcuate strip having first and second ends. The strip is positioned in extension peripherally around the silencer. The first and second ends are secured together in a joint to retain the strip as a continuous band around the muffler. The mounting band also includes a hanging bracket that is secured to a continuous portion of the strip. The hanging support is secured to the strip at a spaced joint site. In certain preferred arrangements, the hanging support includes an arched base and a central projection. Preferably, the arched base of the hanging support extends between opposite ends of an arc of about 35 ° to 50 °. Preferably, the arched base of the hanging support includes first and second base segments extending between the opposite ends and having a space therebetween. Preferably, the central projection includes first and second sides. The first and second sides have first and second curvatures that cause the first and second base segments to have a space between them. In accordance with the present disclosure, a method for securing a mounting arrangement to a silencer is provided. In general, the method includes the provision of an assembly band having a pair of legs and a space therebetween, the mounting band having a hanging support secured to the band in a continuous portion of the spaced apart band of the space; disperse the legs to position the mounting band around the silencer; superimpose the legs to close the space and form a joint in a portion of the spaced band of the hanging support and weld the joint.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 is a schematic, fragmentary side elevation view of a silencer having two mounting band arrangements in accordance with the present invention operatively secured thereon; Figure 2 is an elevational view of the end of a mounting strip analogous to that shown in Figure 1; the mounting band of Figure 2 is shown in a closed orientation; Figure 3 is an elevation view of the end of the mounting strip shown in Figure 2, but illustrated in an open orientation; Figure 4 is an elevational view of the end of a hanging bracket component of the mounting band arrangements shown in Figures 1-3; Figure 5 is a side elevational view of the arrangement shown in Figure 4; Figure 6 is a top plan view of a strip of material from which the hanging element or hook of Figures 4 and 5 can be folded or folded; Figure 7 is an elevation view of the end of a strip component of the mounting band • arrangement shown in Figures 1-3; Figure 8 is a side elevational view of the arrangement shown in Figure 7; Figure 9 is an elevation view of the end of a hanging support alternative to that shown in Figure 4; Figure 10 is a side elevation view of the hanging support shown in Figure 9; Fig. 11 is a top plan view of a strip of material from which the hanging support of Figs. 9 and 10 can be folded or folded; Fig. 12 is an elevation view of the end of an alternate hanger. to those shown in Figures 1-11; Figure 13 is a side elevational view of the hanging support shown in Figure 12; Figure 14 is an arrangement of the hanging support alternative to those shown in Figures 1-13; Figure 15 is a side elevational view of the arrangement shown in Figure 14; Fig. 16 is an elevation view of the end of another embodiment of a hanging bracket component of the mounting band arrangements shown in Figs. 1-3; Figure 17 is a side elevation view of the hanging support shown in Figure 17 and Figure 18 is a top plan view of a strip of material from which the hanging support of Figures 17 and 18 can be folded or bent.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION A. Figures 1 - 15 Conventional mounting bands have a space on the strip located at the location of the hanging support. This space causes stress on the hanging bracket and the mounting band, since this is the point of the entire load. Although no particular theory is determined in the present, it is believed that by locating the space on the opposite side of the hanging support, the forces on the band sealing weld are small and do not cause breakage problems. Furthermore, bending forces can not be placed on the end of the band when it is on the opposite side of the hanging support. The hanging support benefits, since the band is continuous under the hanging support, minimizing the forces on the hanging support. Referring now to Figure 1, a combination 1 according to the present invention is illustrated. The combination 1 comprises a muffler 2 and a pair of mounting bands 3. The muffler 2 can be any of a variety of truck mufflers of the type generally assembled for mounting to a substantially horizontal configuration, with respect to the direction of extension of the longitudinal line 5. The muffler 2 can be a catalytic muffler, that is, a muffler that includes a catalytic converter therein, if desired. In typical systems, the silencer 2 will have an external cover 6 in general cylindrical, with an outer circumference generally circular or in some cases an oval-shaped body. The outer diameter of the cover 6 would generally be at least about 25 cirt (10 inches) and usually about 28 cm. (11 inches). For oval designs, bodies of either 21 cm (8.25 inches) and 29.2 cm (11.5 inches) or 25.4 cm (10 inches) by 32 cm (15 inches) are typical. Mufflers of the type described above are generally used for vehicles such as trucks - of medium load. A typical weight of the silencers is at least about 11 Kg. (25 pounds), usually 14-23 Kg. (30-50 pounds). The cylindrical extension of the silencer has a typical length of 61-114 cm (24 to 45 inches).

Referring again to Figure 1, the muffler 2 includes two mounting bands 3 thereon. Each of the mounting bands 3 includes a strip or portion of strip 8 and a hanging support or hanging support portion 9. Each hanging support 9 includes an opening 10 of the hanging support extending therethrough. The combination 1 can be suspended from a truck frame by coupling between the openings 10 of the hanging support and several clamps, mounting hooks or other structural features on the truck. From this it will be understood that in general, due to the weight of the silencer 2, the mounting bands 3 must withstand substantial forces and forces during use. It will be noted that in many instances, a combination such as a combination 1 will be, prefabricated as a sub-assembly which is then mounted on a truck during the manufacture or assembly of the vehicle. Attention is now directed to Figure 2. In Figure 2, an elevation view of the end of the mounting strip 3 is presented. As indicated above, the mounting strip 3 comprises the strip 8 and the hanging support 9. The strip 8 is a continuous, circular extension 12. The continuous extension 12 is formed from a continuous strip 13 having the first end 14 and the second end 15. The first and second ends 14 and 15 of the strip 8 are joined each other along a seam or joint located generally at 16 when the strip 8 is closed. Preferably, the joining of the ends 14 and 15 is via a superposition junction 16a and by means of the weld 17. Preferably, the extension 12 is continuous without gaps, breaks or interruptions therein, in extension between the ends 14 and 15. This is, preferably the extension 12 contains no opening and is a single piece of material extending continuously between the end 14 and the end 15. More preferably, it is metallic for greater strength. In Figure 3, the mounting band 3 is shown with ends 14 and 15 not joined together, that is, with the strip 8 open. The mounting band 3 shown in Figure 3 is illustrated as it would appear before being secured (or closed around) a muffler, such as the muffler 2, Figure 1. The ends 14 and 15, are not secured together by welding 17 (figure 2) end with a space 20 between them. As a result, legs 21 and 22 of the continuous strip 12 are formed. The legs 21 and 22 can be separated to position the mounting band 3 around a muffler 2. Preferably, the mounting band 3, when closed around the A silencer has an internal diameter of at least 25 cm (10 inches) and usually around 28 cm (11 inches).

As will be evident from Figures 2 and 3, preferably the weld 17 or the space 20 is located, radially around the extension of the continuous strip 12, approximately opposite to a central portion or center 25 of the hanger 9. Preferably, the center 25 is oriented around the continuous strip 12 approximately 150 ° -210 °, radially from the space 20 or junction 16 (that is, weld 17). More preferably, the center 25 is positioned approximately 180 ° from the overlap junction 16, in preferred embodiments. Still referring to Figures 2 and 3, the hanging support 9 includes the base 30 and the projection 31. In general, the hanging support 9 is secured to the strip 12 along the base 30 and the projection 31 includes the opening 10 of the hanging support in it. Preferably, the projection 31 is oriented approximately on the center 25, between the ends 23 and 34 of the hanging support 9. That is, the projection 31 extends over the center 25 of the hanging support 9 and projects in an outward direction. of the strip 8. With reference to FIGS. 2 and 4, preferably the base 30 is an arched base 37. That is, the base 30 preferably has a generally arched shape in extension (below) between the ends 33 and 34. In preferred arrangements, the degree of extension of the arched base 37 between the ends 33 and 34 is about 35 ° to 50 °, more preferably about 42 ° and the arched distance is about 8-13 cm (3-5 inches) ), usually around 10 cm (4.1 inches). The radius of curvature of the arched base 37 will depend on the diameter chosen for the strip 12. Preferably, it approximates the radius of curvature for the strip 12 and thus will normally be based on a radius of curvature of 13 cm (5 inches) or more , normally around 14 cm (5.6 inches). The particular hanging support 9 shown in Figures 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 comprises a single extension 45 of material that has been folded and bent to form the hanging support 9. This is evident from an examination of Figure 4, which is an elevation view of the end of the hanging support 9. The hanging support 9 in figure 4 is formed of a metal extension which when flattened, before folding and bending has the configuration shown in general with the number 45 in the figure 6. It can be seen in Figure 4 that the extension 41 is provided with folds or curvatures 47, 48 and 49 in addition to the arcuate curvatures 50 and 51. Preferably, the arcuate curvatures 50 and 51 are provided at a radius of approximately 13 -15 cm (5 to 6 inches) normally around 14 cm (5.6 inches). Preferably, the curvatures 47 and 49 are equal, about a radius of about 6 - 19 mm (0.25 to 0.75 inches), typically about 13 mm (0.5 inches). The fold 48 should generally be a 180 ° fold. In Figure 5, the arrangement of Figure 4 is shown in a side elevation view. In this figure, it is seen that the opening 10 of the hanging support extends through the portion or projection 31 of the hanging support 9. Typical dimensions for the opening 10 are approximately 6-19 mm (0.25-0.75 inches) and Preference approximately 13 mm (0.5 inches). Now the attention is drawn to Figure 6, of Figure 6 it can be seen that the piece 45, of which the hanging support 9 is formed, has first and second opposite side edges 55 and 56, opposite ends or tips 58 and 59 and tapered edge sections 61, 62, 63 and 64. More specifically, the tapered edge section 63 tapers in extension from the side edge 55 and the tip 59; the tapered edge section 64 extends in extension from the side edge 56 and the tip 59; the tapered edge 61 tapers in extension from the side edge 55 and the tip 58 and the tapered edge 62 tapers in extension from the side edge 56 and the tip 58. The preferred tapered edges are curved, preferably arched or concave, at extension between the associated lateral edge and the associated tip. Preferred tips 58 and 59 are approximately 6-13 mm (0.25 to 0.5 inches), typically about 10 mm (0.4 inches) wide.

The preferred curved tapered sections, 61, 62, 63, 64 are preferably provided along a radius of curvature of about 3-8 cm (1 to 3 inches), usually about 5 cm (2.0 inches). The preferred piece 45 is preferably about 3-5 cm (1 to 2 inches), typically about 4 cm (1.5 inches) wide between the side edges 55 and 56. More preferably, it is of an appropriate width to provide a hanging support 9 having a width of about 60% to 90%, typically about 75% of the width of the strip on which it will be mounted in use. That is, preferably the hanger 9 is centrally positioned on the strip 19 with the respectively spaced side edges 55 and 56 of each respective side edge 75, 76 (FIG. 8) of the associated strip 12, during use, at least about 3-10 mm (0.1 to 0.4 inches) and preferably at least about 6 mm - (0.25 inches). The piece 45 has a length extending between the tips 58 and 59 of about 15-25 cm (6-10 inches), usually about 20-23 cm (8-9 inches) and preferably about 21 cm (8.4 inches). From a view of Figures 4, 5 and 6 it can be understood that the hanging support 9 includes first and second lateral extensions 67 and 68 on the base 30. The lateral extensions 67, 68 project outwards from the . Central projection 31 in opposite directions. Each of • the side extensions 67 and 68 include a pair of tapered edges thereon, narrowing the width of the side extension 67, 68 during a portion thereof extending between the projection 31 and the associated tip tip 58, 59 More preferably, the hanger 9 is secured to the strip 12 by welding, with the weld located along the tapered edges 61, 62, 63 and 64. This will help ensure that the weld is not located along of the edge of the associated strip 12. This is preferred since welding along the edges 75, 76 (FIG. 8) of the strip 12 can create points of potential weakening or breaking. The curved arcuate concave shape shown for the preferred embodiments is convenient for welding the type described in the typical processing. Note that the hanging support 9 is secured on a continuous portion of the strip 12. That is, the strip 12 does not include spaces, detents or moldings therein that are positioned immediately below the hanging support 9. Rather, the hanging support 9 is secured to strip 12 at a generally opposite site (115 ° -2010 ° apart from it) the only space 20 is on strip 12.

Attention is now directed to Figures 7 and 8. In Figures 7 and 8 the strip 12 is illustrated. Note that the strip '12 and illustrated in Figure 7 is shown with an overlap junction 16. That is, the end 15 includes a slight bend 70 therein, to form a portion 71 that can be superimposed on the portion 72 adjacent the end 14, when the strip 12 is configured to form a circular hook, prior to welding. The distance of the overlap portion 71 is about 19-32 mm (0.75-1.25 inches), preferably about 25 mm (1 inch). The preferred strip 12 is preferably only a cylindrical strip having generally opposite first and second side edges 75 and 76, FIG. 8. A preferred width for the strip 12 is at least about 38 mm (1.5 inches), usually about 44-64 mm (1.75 to 2.5 inches) and preferably about 51 mm (2 inches). It is contemplated that with typical embodiments involving silencers of the order of approximately 28 cm (11 inches) in diameter and weighing approximately 14-23 kg (30-50 pounds), strips of the order of approximately 51 mm (2 inches) will be preferred. . The hanging support 9 is preferably constructed of a metal material. Preferably, the material is made of aluminized steel, which has a thickness of 2.5 mm (0.098 inches) and the following properties. Resistance to yield 30 KSI, final resistance of KSI and 20% elongation with aluminum coated surfaces. The strip 12 is preferably made of metal, for example steel having a thickness of 2 mm (0.07 inches). Attention is now directed to the arrangement of Figures 9, 10 and 11. The arrangement of Figures 9, 10 and 11 is an alternative hanging bracket usable with strips in general according to Figures 7 and 8 to form alternative mounting bands. to those shown in figures 1-3. In figures 9 and 10 an alternative suspension bracket 89 is shown. In Figure 11 the general configuration for the preferred metal part of which the hanging support of Figures 9 and 10 could be folded, as shown. The preferred dimensions for the part shown in Figure 11 are as follows: A base 90 is arcuate in configuration, between the ends 91 and 92. The degrees of extension between the ends 91 and 92 are about 35 ° -50 °, normally around 42 °. The arcuate distance is preferably about 7.5-12.5 cm (3-5 inches), and preferably about 10 cm (4.1 inches). The length of a cord extending between the end 90 and the end 91 is about 7.5-12.5 cm (3-5 inches), preferably about 10 cm (4 inches). The radius of curvature of the arcuate base 90 approximates the radius of curvature for the strip in which it is used and will thus normally be based on a radius of curvature of 12.5 cm (5 inches) or more, usually about 14 cm (5.6 inches). The arcuate curvatures 93, 94 are preferably equal to each other. Normally, they will be of a radius of approximately 14 cm (5.6 inches). The bends or curvatures 95, 96 are of a radius of about 6-19 mm (0.25 to 0.75 inches), usually around 13 mm (0.5 inches). The fold 97 is a 180 ° fold. Referring now to Figure 11, it can be seen that the part 98 from which the hanging support 89 is formed has first and second opposite side edges 99 and 100; opposed tips or ends 101 and 102 and tapered edge sections 103, 104, 105 and 106. Preferred tips 101 and 102 are approximately 6-13 mm (0.25 to 0.5 inches) wide, typically around 10 mm (0.4 inches) ) Wide. The preferred curved tapered sections 103, 104, 105, 106 are preferably provided along a radius of curvature of about 25-76 mm (1-3 inches) typically about 51 mm (2 inches). The preferred piece 98 is preferably around 25-51 mm (1 - 2 inches), usually about 38 mm (1.5 inches) wide between side edges 99 and 100. Part 98 includes a length between tips 101 and 102 of between approximately 23-38 cm (9-15 inches) ), usually about 33-36 cm (13-14 inches) and preferably about 35 cm (13.6 inches). In Figure 10, the arrangement of Figure 9 is shown in elevation view. In this figure, an opening 107 of the hanging support can be seen extending through the hanging support 89. Typical dimensions for the opening 107 are approximately 3-15 mm (0.1-0.6 inches) and preferably approximately 10 mm. mm (0.4 inches). Preferably, the hanging support 89 in Figures 9-11 is constructed of a metal. Preferably, the metal is aluminized steel, at least 2.5 mm (0.098 inches) thick. Attention is now directed to Figures 12 and 13. It is contemplated that in some applications, the hanger 9, instead of being folded from a metal extension, could be formed from a unitary piece. An arrangement as such is shown in Figs. 12 and 13. It can be seen that the hanging support 120 shown in Figs. 12 and 13 is of unitary construction, for example, pulverized metal steel, preferably low-dust metal powder. carbon, having a base 121 and projection 122 with an opening 123 of the hanging support therein. For use with an arrangement such as that shown in Figures 1-3, instead of the hanging support 9 illustrated therein, the hanging support 109 preferably has the following dimensions: Preferably, the base 121 is arcuate between the ends 124 and 125. In preferred arrangements, the degree of extension of the arcuate base 121 between the ends 124 and 125 is approximately 40 ° -60 ° preferably approximately 53 ° and the arcuate distance is approximately 127-152 mm (5-6). inches) normally around 132 mm (5.2 inches). The radius of curvature of the arched base 121 depends on the diameter chosen for the strip. Preferably, it approximates the radius of curvature for the strip and thus will commonly be based on a radius of curvature of 13 cm (5 inches) or more, usually about 14 cm (5.6 inches). The rope length between the ends 124 and 125 is usually around 11-14 cm (4.5-5.5 inches), preferably about 13 cm (5 inches). The bend 126 and curvature 127 are normally the same. Preferably, they are of a radius of between 13-18 cm (5-7 inches), preferably about 15 cm (5.9 inches). The projection width 122 between the edges 128 and 129 is between about 5-15 mm (0.2-0.6 inches), typically about 10 mm (0.4 inches).

The bends or bends 130 and 131 are preferably of the same radius. Normally, the folds or • curvatures 130 and 131 are based on a radius of between 13-38 mm (0.5-1.5 inches), preferably about 25 mm (1 inch). The projection 122 has a width between the edges 133 and 134 of about 25-51 mm (1-2 inches), preferably about 38 mm (1.5 inches). The opening 123 of the hanging bracket has a diameter in the range of approximately 6-19 mm (0.25-0.75 inches), preferably about 13 mm (0.5 inches). An alternative suspension bracket to those shown in figures 12 and 13 is shown in figures 14 and 15. The hanging support 150 of figures 14 and 15 also generally comprises a piece of unitary powdered metal. It includes the opening 151 of the hanging support therein, having the base 152 and the projection 153, which defines the opening 151 and has the following dimensions: The base 152 has an arcuate shape in extension between the ends 155 and 156. In arrangements preferred, the degree of extension of the arcuate base 152 between the ends 155 and 156 is about 30 ° -50 °, preferably about 42 ° and the arcuate distance is about 8-13 cm (3-5 inches), normally about 10 cm (4.1 inches). The length of rope between the ends 155 and 156 is approximately 10 cm (4 inches). The radius of curvature of the arcuate base 152 depends on the • diameter chosen for the strip 12. Preferably, it approximates the radius of curvature for the strip 12 and thus, will normally be based on a radius of curvature of approximately 13 cm (5 inches) ) or more, usually around 14 cm (5.6 inches). The curvatures 158 and 159 are usually about an equal radius, usually about 6-19 mm (0.25-0.75 inches), preferably about 13 mm (0.5 inches). ' The thickness of the base 152 between the surface 160 and the surface 161 is approximately 3-5 mm (0.1-0.2 inches), typically around 4 mm (0.16 inches). The thickness of the projection 153 between the surface 163 and the surface 164 is between about 6-19 mm (0.25-0.75 inches), preferably about 13 mm (0.5 inches). Now attention is drawn to Figure 15. As shown in Figure 15, the width across the widest part of the projection 153 is greater than the width through the base 152. Normally, the projection 153 extends between 125-175%, preferably approximately 150% greater than the width through the base 152. In preferred arrangements, the projection width 153 between the edges 170 and 171 is approximately 25-51 mm (1-2 inches) preferably about 38 pim (1.5 inches). The width of the base 152 »is approximately 13-38 mm (0.5-1.5 inches), preferably approximately 25 mm (1 inch). An opening 151 of the hanging support is also shown in Figure 15. Preferably, it has a diameter of approximately 6-19 mm (0.25-0.75 inches), usually around 13 mm (0.5 inches). Preferably, the hanging support 150 is of a unitary construction. Preferably, it is constructed of a powder metal, for example low carbon metal powder steel. A mounting band of the arrangement such as that illustrated in Figures 1-6 was tested for strength. The array was found to hold a tensile force of up to 5,443 Kgf (12,000 pounds-force) until failure. An arrangement such as that illustrated in Figures 12 and 13 was tested. It was found that this arrangement held a tensile force of 2,495 Kgf (5,500 pounds-force) until failure.

B. Figures 16-18 Now we call attention to the arrangement of Figures 16-18. Figures 16-18 illustrate an alternative suspension bracket 200, usable with strips in general according to figures 2 and 3, to form mounting bands alternative to those shown in figures 1-3. Figure 18 shows the general configuration for a preferred metal part 201 of which the hanging support 200 of Figures 16 and 17 could be folded. In alternative embodiments, the hanging bracket 200 could be fabricated from powdered metal. In general, the hanger 200 of Figures 16-18 includes an arrangement to provide more resistance to the hanger 200 than in certain systems of the embodiments described above. The hanger 200 is preferably arranged to increase the section modulus, which distributes the forces more evenly and results in increased resistance. Attention is now directed to Figure 16. Figure 16 illustrates an example of the hanging support 200 that includes the arrangement for the increased section module. The hanging support 200 of Figure 16 is analogous to the hanging support 89 of Figure 9, except for the provision of a space 250 between first and second opposing extensions 251, 252. In particular, preferably, the hanging support includes a base 202. and a central projection 203. The base 202 is of arcuate configuration, between the ends 204 and 206. Preferably, the degrees of extension between the ends 204 and 206 are approximately 35 ° -50 °, usually around 42 °. The length of a cord extending between end 204 and end 206 is about 8 to 15 cm (3-6 inches), preferably about 12.2 cm (4.8 inches). The radius of curvature of the arcuate base 202 approximates the radius of curvature for the strip on which it is used and will commonly be based on a radius of curvature of 8 cm (5 inches) or more, usually about 14 cm (5.6 inches) ). The base 202 preferably includes two base segments 208, 210. In preferred embodiments, the base segments 208, 210 are of arcuate configuration. The base segments are preferably equal in length to each other. Normally, they will be of a radius of approximately 14 cm (5.6 inches). Preferably, the hanger also includes transition segments between the base 202 and the central projection 203. In preferred embodiments, the first and second bends 212, 214 provide a transition between the base 202 and the central projection 203. Preferably, the curvatures 212, 214 are from a radius of about 6 to 19 mm (0.25 to 0.75 inches), typically about 1.3 cm (0.5 inches).

Preferably, the central projection 203 includes first and second sides 216, 217. The first and second sides 216, 217, are in a fold 215 in the hanger 200. Preferably, the fold is approximately a 180 ° fold. In the preferred embodiment, the first and second sides 216, 217 have first and second break or bend points 218, 219 respectively. The first and second curvatures 218, 219 cause the sides 216, 217 respectively, to be angular to each other starting at the curvatures 218, 219 and continuing to the curvatures 212, 214. Due to the curvatures 218, 219, the sides 216, 217 respectively define the space 250 between the transition curvatures 212, 214. Preferably, a side width of the space 250 is at least 6.4 mm (0.25 inches), not more than about 6.4 cm (2.5 inches), usually around 1.27. cm - 5.1 cm (0.5-2.0 inches) and preferably approximately 2.5 cm (1 inch). The sides 216, 217 define an angle T, preferably of at least 2 °, usually between 5 ° -25 ° and preferably not more than about 100 °. A region or portion of overlap where the sides 216, 217 are pressed together in contact coupling is defined at 257, between the tip of the end 215 and the first and second curvatures 218, 219. This region of overlap preferably has a length of at least 10 mm (0.39 inches), usually around 20-40 mm (0.79-1.6 inches) and not more than about 120 mm (4.7 inches). This suspension bracket arrangement increases the section modulus of the hanger 200, distributing the forces exerted on the hanger 200 more evenly and further increasing the strength of the hanger 200. With reference now to Fig. 18, it can be seen that the piece 201, of which the hanger 200 is formed, has first and second opposite side edges 220 and 221; opposite ends or tips 222 and 224 and tapered edge sections 226, 228, 230, 232 which may be angular or curved. Preferably, the tips 222 and 224 are approximately 6 to 13 mm (0.25 to 0.5 inches) wide, typically about 1 cm (0.4 inches) wide. The preferred curved tapered sections 226, 228, 230, 232 are generally provided along a radius of curvature of about 2.5 to 7.6 cm (1 to 3 inches), typically about 5 cm (2 inches). The preferred piece 201 is preferably about 2.5 to 5 cm (1 to 2 inches) normally about 38 mm (1.5 inches) wide between the side edges 220, 221. The piece 201 includes a length between the tips 222 and 224 between about 23 to 38 cm (9 to 15 inches), usually about 30 to 33 cm (12 to 13 inches) and preferably about 31.8 cm (12.5 inches).

In Figure 17, the arrangement of Figure 16 is shown in side elevational view. In this figure, an opening 234 of the hanging support extending through the hanging support 200 is shown. Typical dimensions for the opening 234 are from about 3 to 15 mm (0.1 to 0.6 inches) and preferably about 10 mm (0.4 inches). Of course, the hanging support 200 may have more than one hanging support opening. Preferably, the hanging support 200 of Figures 16-18 is constructed of a metal. Preferably, the metal is aluminized steel, at least 2.5 mm (0.098 inches) thick. It will be understood that a wide variety of specific configurations and applications are feasible, using the techniques described herein. The dimensions described herein are typical examples. Ranges are preferred because they have been satisfactory to carry out the work, without resulting in a larger or more expensive structure than necessary. Although ranges outside these dimensions are contemplated, the dimensions described herein are convenient and typical. The specification, examples and previous data provide a complete description of the manufacture and use of the invention, many embodiments of the invention can be made without deviating from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is noted that, with regard to this date, the best method known to the applicant to carry out the aforementioned invention is that which is clear from the present description of the invention.

Claims (18)

1. CLAIMS Having described the invention as above, it is , claims as property contained in the following claims: 1. A mounting band for use with a silencer, the mounting band is characterized in that it comprises: (a) an arched strip having first and second ends: (i) the first and second ends of the strip are secured together in a weld to retain the strip as a continuous band when mounted around a silencer and (b) a suspended support secured to a continuous portion of the strip; the hanging support is secured to the strip in a separate place from the welding.
2. 2. The mounting band according to claim 1, characterized in that: (a) the hanging support includes an arched base and a central projection.
3. 3. The mounting strip according to claim 2, characterized in that: (a) the central projection includes first and second sides and a tip joining the first and second sides: (i) the first and second sides are pressed one against the other. the other along at least a portion of the central projection; (b) the base includes first and second base segments that extend arcuately in generally opposite directions of the central projection.
4. 4. The mounting band according to claim 3, characterized in that: (a) the first and second base segments are separated to define a space therebetween.
5. 5. The mounting band according to any of claims 3 and 4, characterized in that: (a) the first and second sides define an angle of approximately 5 ° -25 ° between them.
6. 6. An assembly band according to any of claims 3-5, characterized in that: (a) the portion has a length of approximately 20-40 m.
7. The mounting band according to claim 4, characterized in that: (a) the space or spacing is approximately 13-51 mm.
8. 8. The mounting band according to any of claims 3-7; characterized in that: (a) the first and second sides have first and second bends or curvatures.
9. The mounting band according to claim 3, characterized in that: (a) the first and second sides are pressed against each other along a full extension of the central projection between the tip and the base.
10. The mounting band according to any of claims 3-9, characterized in that: (a) the portion defines an opening extending through the first and second sides.
11. The mounting strip according to any of claims 3-10, characterized in that: (a) the first base segment includes a first tip and opposite side edges; (i) the opposite side edges of the first base segment taper toward each other in portions thereof adjacent to the first tip; (b) the second base segment includes a second tip and opposite side edges; (i) the opposite side edges of the second base segment taper toward each other in portions thereof adjacent to the second tip.
12. 12. The mounting strip according to claim 11, characterized in that: (a) the opposite side edges of the first base segment taper toward each other along concave edge portions directed inwards and (b) the side edges Opposites of the second base segment taper toward each other along concave edge portions directed inwardly.
13. The mounting band according to any of claims 1-12, characterized in that: (a) the hanging support comprises a single extension of a folded metal strip.
14. The mounting band according to any of claims 1-13, characterized in that: (a) the hanging support is spaced at approximately 150 ° -210 ° from the weld.
15. 15. The mounting band according to any of claims 1-14, characterized in that: (a) the mounting band is circular, when closed and has an internal diameter of at least 25 cm (10 inches).
16. 16. The mounting band according to any of claims 1-15, characterized , because: (a) the hanging support is spaced approximately 180 ° from the weld.
17. 17. A combination of an assembly band according to any of claims 1-16 and a silencer, characterized in that it comprises: (a) a silencer; (b) the mounting band is constructed and arranged to secure the silencer in a hanging orientation.
18. 18. A method for securing an assembly band according to any of claims 1-16 to a silencer, the method is characterized in that it comprises: (a) providing a mounting band having a pair of legs and a space between the legs same; the mounting band has a hanging bracket secured to the band in a continuous portion of the spaced apart band of the space; (b) separate the legs to position the mounting band around the silencer; (c) superposing the legs to close the space and form a seam or joint in a portion of the spaced band of the hanging support and (d) welding the joint. ASSEMBLY TO MOUNT A SILENCER, METHOD AND APPARATUS TO ASSEMBLE THE SAME SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION A mounting band is disclosed for use with a silencer that includes an arcuate continuous strip having first and second ends. The strip is positioned in extension peripherally around the silencer. The first and second ends of the strip are secured together in a joint to retain the strip as a continuous band around the muffler. A hanging support is secured to a continuous portion of the strip at a site separate from the seam.