WO2018125662A1 - Ensembles éléments d'extrémité et ensembles ressort à gaz et amortisseur à gaz, systèmes et procédés de suspension - Google Patents

Ensembles éléments d'extrémité et ensembles ressort à gaz et amortisseur à gaz, systèmes et procédés de suspension Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2018125662A1
WO2018125662A1 PCT/US2017/067242 US2017067242W WO2018125662A1 WO 2018125662 A1 WO2018125662 A1 WO 2018125662A1 US 2017067242 W US2017067242 W US 2017067242W WO 2018125662 A1 WO2018125662 A1 WO 2018125662A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
end member
gas
wall
spring
damper
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2017/067242
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Joshua R. Leonard
Original Assignee
Firestone Industrial Products Company, Llc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Firestone Industrial Products Company, Llc filed Critical Firestone Industrial Products Company, Llc
Publication of WO2018125662A1 publication Critical patent/WO2018125662A1/fr

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
    • B60G11/00—Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location or kind of springs
    • B60G11/26—Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location or kind of springs having fluid springs only, e.g. hydropneumatic springs
    • B60G11/27—Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location or kind of springs having fluid springs only, e.g. hydropneumatic springs wherein the fluid is a gas
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
    • B60G15/00—Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location or type of combined spring and vibration damper, e.g. telescopic type
    • B60G15/08—Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location or type of combined spring and vibration damper, e.g. telescopic type having fluid spring
    • B60G15/12—Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location or type of combined spring and vibration damper, e.g. telescopic type having fluid spring and fluid damper
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
    • B60G17/00—Resilient suspensions having means for adjusting the spring or vibration-damper characteristics, for regulating the distance between a supporting surface and a sprung part of vehicle or for locking suspension during use to meet varying vehicular or surface conditions, e.g. due to speed or load
    • B60G17/02—Spring characteristics, e.g. mechanical springs and mechanical adjusting means
    • B60G17/04—Spring characteristics, e.g. mechanical springs and mechanical adjusting means fluid spring characteristics
    • B60G17/052—Pneumatic spring characteristics
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
    • B60G17/00—Resilient suspensions having means for adjusting the spring or vibration-damper characteristics, for regulating the distance between a supporting surface and a sprung part of vehicle or for locking suspension during use to meet varying vehicular or surface conditions, e.g. due to speed or load
    • B60G17/06—Characteristics of dampers, e.g. mechanical dampers
    • B60G17/08—Characteristics of fluid dampers
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16F—SPRINGS; SHOCK-ABSORBERS; MEANS FOR DAMPING VIBRATION
    • F16F9/00—Springs, vibration-dampers, shock-absorbers, or similarly-constructed movement-dampers using a fluid or the equivalent as damping medium
    • F16F9/02—Springs, vibration-dampers, shock-absorbers, or similarly-constructed movement-dampers using a fluid or the equivalent as damping medium using gas only or vacuum
    • F16F9/04—Springs, vibration-dampers, shock-absorbers, or similarly-constructed movement-dampers using a fluid or the equivalent as damping medium using gas only or vacuum in a chamber with a flexible wall
    • F16F9/0472—Springs, vibration-dampers, shock-absorbers, or similarly-constructed movement-dampers using a fluid or the equivalent as damping medium using gas only or vacuum in a chamber with a flexible wall characterised by comprising a damping device
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16F—SPRINGS; SHOCK-ABSORBERS; MEANS FOR DAMPING VIBRATION
    • F16F9/00—Springs, vibration-dampers, shock-absorbers, or similarly-constructed movement-dampers using a fluid or the equivalent as damping medium
    • F16F9/02—Springs, vibration-dampers, shock-absorbers, or similarly-constructed movement-dampers using a fluid or the equivalent as damping medium using gas only or vacuum
    • F16F9/04—Springs, vibration-dampers, shock-absorbers, or similarly-constructed movement-dampers using a fluid or the equivalent as damping medium using gas only or vacuum in a chamber with a flexible wall
    • F16F9/05—Springs, vibration-dampers, shock-absorbers, or similarly-constructed movement-dampers using a fluid or the equivalent as damping medium using gas only or vacuum in a chamber with a flexible wall the flexible wall being of the rolling diaphragm type
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
    • B60G2202/00—Indexing codes relating to the type of spring, damper or actuator
    • B60G2202/10—Type of spring
    • B60G2202/15—Fluid spring
    • B60G2202/152—Pneumatic spring
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
    • B60G2202/00—Indexing codes relating to the type of spring, damper or actuator
    • B60G2202/20—Type of damper
    • B60G2202/24—Fluid damper
    • B60G2202/242—Pneumatic damper
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
    • B60G2204/00—Indexing codes related to suspensions per se or to auxiliary parts
    • B60G2204/10—Mounting of suspension elements
    • B60G2204/12—Mounting of springs or dampers
    • B60G2204/126—Mounting of pneumatic springs
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
    • B60G2206/00—Indexing codes related to the manufacturing of suspensions: constructional features, the materials used, procedures or tools
    • B60G2206/01—Constructional features of suspension elements, e.g. arms, dampers, springs
    • B60G2206/40—Constructional features of dampers and/or springs
    • B60G2206/42—Springs
    • B60G2206/424—Plunger or top retainer construction for bellows or rolling lobe type air springs

Definitions

  • the subject matter of the present disclosure broadly relates to the art of gas spring devices and, more particularly, to end member assemblies that are formed from two or more components having a snap-together construction.
  • the components can at least partially encapsulate a damper housing that can at least partially define a damping chamber.
  • Gas spring and damper assemblies including at least one of such end member assemblies can include a damper piston that can separate the damping chamber into first and second damping chamber portions with an elongated passage in fluid communication between a spring chamber and a first portion of the damping chamber that is capable of providing pressurized gas damping.
  • Suspension systems including one or more of such gas spring and gas damper assemblies as well as methods of assembly are also included.
  • the subject matter of the present disclosure may find particular application and use in conjunction with components for wheeled vehicles, and will be shown and described herein with reference thereto. However, it is to be appreciated that the subject matter of the present disclosure is also amenable to use in other applications and environments, and that the specific uses shown and described herein are merely exemplary.
  • the subject matter of the present disclosure could be used in connection with gas spring and gas damper assemblies of non-wheeled vehicles, support structures, height adjusting systems and actuators associated with industrial machinery, components thereof and/or other such equipment. Accordingly, the subject matter of the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to use associated with suspension systems of wheeled vehicles and/or components thereof.
  • Wheeled motor vehicles of most types and kinds include a sprung mass, such as a body or chassis, for example, and an unsprung mass, such as two or more axles or other wheel-engaging members, for example, with a suspension system disposed therebetween.
  • a suspension system will include a plurality of spring elements as well as a plurality of damping devices that together permit the sprung and unsprung masses of the vehicle to move in a somewhat controlled manner relative to one another.
  • the plurality of spring elements function to accommodate forces and loads associated with the operation and use of the vehicle, and the plurality of damping devices are operative to dissipate undesired inputs and movements of the vehicle, particularly during dynamic operation thereof. Movement of the sprung and unsprung masses toward one another is normally referred to in the art as jounce motion while movement of the sprung and unsprung masses away from one another is commonly referred to in the art as rebound motion.
  • spring elements that have as low of a spring rate as is practical, as the use of lower spring rate elements can provide improved ride quality and comfort compared to spring elements having higher spring rates. That is, it is well understood in the art that the use of spring elements having higher spring rates (i.e., stiffer springs) will transmit a greater magnitude of road inputs into the sprung mass of the vehicle and that this typically results in a rougher, less-comfortable ride. Whereas, the use of spring elements having lower spring rates (i.e., softer, more-compliant springs) will transmit a lesser amount of road inputs into the sprung mass and will, thus, provide a more comfortable ride.
  • higher spring rates i.e., stiffer springs
  • the use of spring elements having lower spring rates i.e., softer, more-compliant springs
  • Such suspension systems also commonly include one or more dampers or damping components that are operative to dissipate energy associated with undesired inputs and movements of the sprung mass, such as road inputs occurring under dynamic operation of a vehicle, for example.
  • dampers are liquid filled and operatively connected between a sprung and unsprung mass, such as between a body and axle of a vehicle, for example.
  • damping components are conventional shock absorbers that are commonly used in vehicle suspension systems.
  • the dampers or damping components can be of a type and kind that utilizes gas rather than liquid as the working medium.
  • the gas damper portion permits gas flow between two or more volumes of pressurized gas, such as through one or more orifices, as shown, for example, in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0124571 , or through one or more valve ports, as shown, for example, in U.S. Patent No. 7,213,799.
  • there is some resistance to the movement of pressurized gas through these passages or ports and this resistance acts to dissipate energy associated with the gas spring portion and thereby provide some measure of damping.
  • gas spring and gas damper assemblies may relate to the challenge of balancing desired performance levels with size and/or space limitations associated with the particular application and/or use for which the gas spring and gas damper assemblies are intended.
  • motorized vehicles commonly include significant packaging and/or space limitations that can reduce the area that is available adjacent the gas spring and gas damper assembly.
  • a reduced volume of pressurized gas may be used.
  • the desired volume of pressurized gas may be provided in a remote location relative to the gas spring and gas damper assembly. In either case, some decrease in damping performance of conventional constructions may result.
  • gas spring and gas damper assemblies as well as a suspension system including one or more of such assemblies that overcome the foregoing and/or other difficulties associated with known constructions, and/or which may otherwise advance the art of gas spring and gas damper assemblies as well as components thereof and suspension systems and methods including the same.
  • the end member assembly can be dimensioned for securement to an associated end of an associated flexible spring member.
  • the end member assembly can include an end member, a base member and a housing sleeve.
  • the end member can having a longitudinal axis and can include an end member wall with an outer mounting surface portion dimensioned to receivingly engage the associated end of the associated flexible spring member.
  • An inner side surface portion can at least partially define an end member cavity portion, and a receiver wall portion can be disposed radially outward along the end member cavity.
  • the base member can include a base member wall with an inner side surface portion that can at least partially define a base member cavity portion.
  • At least one retaining finger wall portion can be disposed radially outward along the base member cavity.
  • the housing sleeve can include a sleeve wall with a side wall portion having an inner side surface portion that at least partially defines a damping chamber that can be dimensioned to receive an associated damper piston.
  • An outer side surface portion can face radially outward opposite the inner side surface.
  • the end member and the base member can be oriented in coaxial relation with one another such that the receiver wall portion and the at least one retaining finger wall portion are axially co-extensive with one another. In this manner, the end member and the base member can be secured together in an assembled condition in which the end member cavity portion and the base member cavity portion at least partially form an assembly cavity.
  • the housing sleeve is disposed within the assembly cavity such that the outer side surface portion is disposed in facing relation to the inner side surface portions of the end member wall and the base member wall.
  • an end member assembly in accordance with the foregoing paragraph can include an elongated damping passage that can have a spiral configuration disposed in a plane oriented transverse to the longitudinal axis.
  • gas spring and gas damper assembly in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure can include a gas spring that can include a flexible spring member, an end member and an end member assembly according to either of the two foregoing paragraphs.
  • the flexible spring member can have a longitudinal axis and can include a flexible wall extending longitudinally between first and second ends and peripherally about the longitudinal axis to at least partially define a spring chamber.
  • the end member can be operatively secured to the first end of the flexible spring member such that a substantially fluid-tight seal is formed therebetween.
  • the end member assembly can be disposed in spaced relation to the end member and can be operatively secured to the second end of the flexible spring member such that a substantially fluid- tight seal is formed therebetween.
  • a gas spring and gas damper assembly can also include a gas damper.
  • the gas damper can include a damper piston assembly that can include a damper piston and an elongated damper rod operatively connected to the damper piston.
  • the damper piston can be positioned within the damping chamber and can include an outer side wall disposed adjacent the inner side surface portion of the sleeve wall The damper piston can separate the damping chamber into first and second damping chamber portions with at least one of the first and second chamber portions disposed in fluid communication with the spring chamber.
  • One example of a suspension system in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure can include a pressurized gas system that includes a pressurized gas source and a control device.
  • the suspension system can also include at least one gas spring and gas damper assembly according to either of the two foregoing paragraphs.
  • the at least one gas spring and gas damper assembly can be disposed in fluid communication with the pressurized gas source through the control device such that pressurized gas can be selectively transferred into and out of the spring chamber.
  • One example of a method of manufacturing a gas spring and gas damper assembly in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure can include providing a first end member that has a longitudinal axis and includes an end member wall with an outer mounting surface portion that can be dimensioned to receivingly engage an end of a flexible spring member.
  • the end member wall can also include an inner side surface portion that at least partially defines an end member cavity portion and a receiver wall portion that is disposed radially outward along the end member cavity.
  • the method can also include providing a base member that can include a base member wall with an inner side surface portion that can at least partially define a base member cavity portion.
  • the base member wall can also include at least one retaining finger wall portion that is disposed radially outward along the base member cavity.
  • the method can further include providing a housing sleeve that can include a sleeve wall with a side wall portion having an inner side surface portion that at least partially defines a damping chamber that is dimensioned to receive a damper piston.
  • the sleeve wall can also include an outer side surface portion facing radially outward opposite the inner side surface.
  • the method can also include positioning the housing sleeve at least partially within at least one of the end member cavity portion and the base member cavity portion with the outer side surface portion of the sleeve wall is disposed in facing relation to at least one of the inner side surface portions of the end member wall and the base member wall.
  • the method can further include positioning the first end member and the base member in coaxial relation with one another, and engaging the first end member and the base member with one another such that the receiver wall portion and the at least one retaining finger wall portion axially co-extensive and thereby securing the first end member and the base member together with the housing sleeve encapsulated therebetween.
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of one example of a suspension system of an associated vehicle that includes one or more gas spring and gas damper assemblies in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of one example of a gas spring and gas damper assembly.
  • FIG. 3 is a bottom perspective view of the exemplary gas spring and gas damper assembly in FIG. 2.
  • FIG. 4 is a top plan view of the exemplary gas spring and gas damper assembly in FIGS. 2 and 3.
  • FIG. 5 is a bottom plan view of the exemplary gas spring and gas damper assembly in FIGS. 2-4.
  • FIG. 6 is a side elevation view of the exemplary gas spring and gas damper assembly in FIGS. 2-5.
  • FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional side view of the exemplary gas spring and gas damper assembly in FIGS. 2-6 taken from along line 7-7 in FIG. 4.
  • FIG. 8 is a greatly enlarged view of the portion of the exemplary gas spring and gas damper assembly in FIGS. 2-7 that is identified as Detail 8 in FIG. 7.
  • FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional side view of the exemplary gas spring and gas damper assembly in FIGS. 2-8 taken from along line 9-9 in FIG. 4.
  • FIG. 10 is an exploded view, in partial cross section, of one portion of the gas spring and gas damper assembly in FIGS. 2-9.
  • FIG. 1 1 is an exploded view, in partial cross section, of another portion of the gas spring and gas damper assembly in FIGS. 2-10.
  • FIG. 12 is a top plan view of one example of an end plate of the gas spring and gas damper assembly in FIGS. 2-1 1 .
  • FIG. 13 is a top perspective view of one example of an end member such as is shown in FIGS. 2-1 1 .
  • FIG. 14 is a bottom perspective view of the exemplary end member in FIG. 13.
  • FIG. 15 is a top plan view of the exemplary end member in FIGS. 13 and 14.
  • FIG. 16 is a bottom plan view of the exemplary end member in FIGS. 13-15.
  • FIG. 17 is a cross-section side view of the exemplary end member in FIGS. 13-
  • FIG. 18 is a cross-section side view of the exemplary end member in FIGS. 13-
  • FIG. 19 is a top perspective view of one example of an end cap of an exemplary damper housing of a gas spring and gas damper assembly such as is shown in FIGS. 2- 1 1 .
  • FIG. 20 is a bottom perspective view of the exemplary end cap in FIG. 19.
  • FIG. 21 is a top plan view of the exemplary end cap in FIGS. 19 and 20.
  • FIG. 22 is a cross-section side view of the exemplary end cap in FIGS. 19-21 taken from along line 22-22 in FIG. 21 .
  • FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional side view of an example of a gas spring and gas damper assembly in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 24 is a perpendicular cross-sectional side view of the exemplary gas spring and gas damper assembly in FIG. 23.
  • FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional side view of an end member assembly in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure, such as in FIGS. 23 and 24, shown prior to assembly.
  • FIG. 26 is an enlarged view of the portion of the end member assembly in FIGS. 23-25 identified as Detail 26 in FIG. 25.
  • FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional side view of the end member assembly in FIGS. 23-26 shown in an assembled condition.
  • FIG. 28 is an enlarged view of the portion of the end member assembly in FIGS. 23-27 identified as Detail 28 in FIG. 27.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates one example of a suspension system 100 disposed between a sprung mass, such as an associated vehicle body BDY, for example, and an unsprung mass, such as an associated wheel WHL or an associated axle AXL, for example, of an associated vehicle VHC. It will be appreciated that any one or more of the components of the suspension system can be operatively connected between the sprung and unsprung masses of the associated vehicle in any suitable manner.
  • a sprung mass such as an associated vehicle body BDY
  • an unsprung mass such as an associated wheel WHL or an associated axle AXL, for example, of an associated vehicle VHC.
  • suspension system 100 can include a plurality of gas spring and gas damper assemblies 102 that are operatively connected between the sprung and unsprung masses of the vehicle.
  • the suspension system may, in some cases, also include damping members (not shown) of a typical construction that are provided separately from assemblies 102 and secured between the sprung and unsprung masses in a conventional manner.
  • damping members not shown
  • gas spring and gas damper assemblies 102 will be sized, configured and operative to provide the desired performance characteristics for the suspension system without the use of additional damping members (e.g., conventional struts or shock absorbers) that are separately provided.
  • suspension system 100 includes four gas spring and gas damper assemblies 102, one of which is disposed toward each corner of the associated vehicle adjacent a corresponding wheel WHL.
  • gas spring and gas damper assemblies 102 are supported between axles AXL and body BDY of associated vehicle VHC, and include a gas spring 104 and a gas damper 106. It will be recognized that gas springs 104 are shown and described in connection with FIG. 1 as being of a rolling lobe-type construction.
  • Suspension system 100 also includes a pressurized gas system 108 operatively associated with the gas spring and gas damper assemblies for selectively supplying pressurized gas (e.g., air) thereto and selectively transferring pressurized gas therefrom.
  • pressurized gas system 108 includes a pressurized gas source, such as a compressor 110, for example, for generating pressurized air or other gases.
  • a control device such as a valve assembly 112, for example, is shown as being in communication with compressor 110 and can be of any suitable configuration or arrangement.
  • valve assembly 112 includes a valve block 114 with a plurality of valves 116 supported thereon.
  • Valve assembly 112 can also, optionally, include a suitable exhaust, such as a muffler 118, for example, for venting pressurized gas from the system.
  • pressurized gas system 108 can also include a reservoir 120 in fluid communication with the compressor and/or valve assembly 112 and suitable for storing pressurized gas.
  • Valve assembly 112 is in communication with gas springs 104 and/or gas dampers 106 of assemblies 102 through suitable gas transfer lines 122. As such, pressurized gas can be selectively transferred into and/or out of the gas springs and/or the gas dampers through valve assembly 112 by selectively operating valves 116, such as to alter or maintain vehicle height at one or more corners of the vehicle, for example.
  • Suspension system 100 can also include a control system 124 that is capable of communication with any one or more systems and/or components (not shown) of vehicle VHC and/or suspension system 100, such as for selective operation and/or control thereof.
  • Control system 124 can include a controller or electronic control unit (ECU) 126 communicatively coupled with compressor 110 and/or valve assembly 112, such as through a conductor or lead 128, for example, for selective operation and control thereof, which can include supplying and exhausting pressurized gas to and/or from gas spring and damper assemblies 102.
  • Controller 126 can be of any suitable type, kind and/or configuration.
  • Control system 124 can also, optionally, include one or more height (or distance) sensing devices 130, such as, for example, may be operatively associated with the gas spring assemblies and capable of outputting or otherwise generating data, signals and/or other communications having a relation to a height of the gas spring assemblies or a distance between other components of the vehicle.
  • Height sensing devices 130 can be in communication with ECU 126, which can receive the height or distance signals therefrom.
  • the height sensing devices can be in communication with ECU 126 in any suitable manner, such as through conductors or leads 132, for example. Additionally, it will be appreciated that the height sensing devices can be of any suitable type, kind and/or construction, such as may operate using sound, pressure, light and/or electromagnetic waves, for example.
  • FIGS. 2-1 1 one example of a gas spring and gas damper assembly will now be described in connection with FIGS. 2-1 1 .
  • a gas spring and gas damper assembly AS1 such as may be suitable for use as one or more of gas spring and gas damper assemblies 102 in FIG. 1 , for example.
  • Gas spring and gas damper assembly AS1 is shown as including a gas spring (or gas spring assembly) GS1 , such as may correspond to one of gas springs 104 in FIG.
  • a longitudinal axis AX extends lengthwise along assembly AS1 , as shown in FIGS. 7 and 9.
  • Gas spring assembly GS1 can include a flexible spring member 200 that can extend peripherally around axis AX and can be secured between opposing end members (or end member assemblies) 300 and 400 in a substantially fluid-tight manner such that a spring chamber 202 is at least partially defined therebetween.
  • Gas damper assembly GD1 can include a damper housing 500 that is operatively supported on or along end member 400 and a damper rod assembly 600 that is operatively associated with damper housing 500.
  • An end mount 700 can operatively connect damper rod assembly 600 with end member 300.
  • flexible spring member 200 can be of any suitable size, shape, construction and/or configuration. Additionally, the flexible spring member can be of any type and/or kind, such as a rolling lobe-type or convoluted bellows-type construction, for example.
  • Flexible spring member 200 is shown in FIGS. 2-7, 9, 23 and 24 as including a flexible wall 204 that can be formed in any suitable manner and from any suitable material or combination of materials.
  • the flexible wall can include one or more filament-reinforced, elastomeric plies or layers and/or one or more un-reinforced, elastomeric plies or layers.
  • one or more filament-reinforced, elastomeric plies and one or more un-reinforced, elastomeric plies will be used together and formed from a common elastomeric material, such as a synthetic rubber, a natural rubber or a thermoplastic elastomer.
  • a common elastomeric material such as a synthetic rubber, a natural rubber or a thermoplastic elastomer.
  • a combination of two or more different materials, two or more compounds of similar materials, or two or more grades of the same material could be used.
  • Flexible wall 204 can extend in a generally longitudinal direction between opposing ends 206 and 208. Additionally, flexible wall 204 can include an outer surface 210 and an inner surface 212. The inner surface can at least partially define spring chamber 202 of gas spring assembly GS1. Flexible wall 204 can include an outer or cover ply (not identified) that at least partially forms outer surface 210. Flexible wall 204 can also include an inner or liner ply (not identified) that at least partially forms inner surface 212. In some cases, flexible wall 204 can further include one or more reinforcing plies (not shown) disposed between outer and inner surfaces 210 and 212. The one or more reinforcing plies can be of any suitable construction and/or configuration.
  • the one or more reinforcing plies can include one or more lengths of filament material that are at least partially embedded therein.
  • the one or more lengths of filament material if provided, can be oriented in any suitable manner.
  • the flexible wall can include at least one layer or ply with lengths of filament material oriented at one bias angle and at least one layer or ply with lengths of filament material oriented at an equal but opposite bias angle.
  • Flexible spring member 200 can include any feature or combination of features suitable for forming a substantially fluid-tight connection with end member 300 and/or end member 400.
  • flexible spring member 200 can include a mounting bead 214 disposed along end 206 of flexible wall 204 and a mounting bead 216 disposed along end 208 of the flexible wall.
  • the mounting bead if provided, can, optionally, include a reinforcing element, such as an endless, annular bead wire 218, for example.
  • Gas spring and gas damper assembly AS1 can be disposed between associated sprung and unsprung masses of an associated vehicle in any suitable manner.
  • one component can be operatively connected to the associated sprung mass with another component disposed toward and operatively connected to the associated unsprung mass.
  • end member 300 can be operatively disposed along a first or upper structural component USC, such as associated vehicle body BDY in FIG. 1 , for example, and can be secured thereon in any suitable manner.
  • damper housing 500 can be operatively disposed along a second or lower structural component LSC, such as one of associated axles AXL in FIG. 1 , for example, and can be secured thereon in any suitable manner.
  • end members can be of any suitable type, kind, construction and/or configuration, and can be operatively connected or otherwise secured to the flexible spring member in any suitable manner.
  • end member 300 is of a type commonly referred to as a bead plate and includes an end member wall 302 with an inner wall portion 304 and an outer peripheral wall portion 306.
  • End member 300 is disposed along end 206 of flexible wall 204 with outer peripheral wall portion 306 crimped or otherwise deformed around at least a portion of mounting bead 214 such that a substantially fluid-tight seal can be formed between flexible spring member 200 and end member 300.
  • Inner wall portion 304 can have an approximately planar outer surface 308 dimensioned to abuttingly engage an associated structural component (e.g., upper structural component USC). Inner wall portion 304 can also have an approximately planar inner surface 310 disposed in facing relation to spring chamber 202.
  • an associated structural component e.g., upper structural component USC.
  • Inner wall portion 304 can also have an approximately planar inner surface 310 disposed in facing relation to spring chamber 202.
  • end member 300 can be disposed in operative engagement on or along first or upper structural component USC (FIG. 6), such as associated vehicle body BDY in FIG. 1 , for example, and can be secured thereon in any suitable manner.
  • first or upper structural component USC FIG. 6
  • one or more securement devices such as mounting studs 312, for example, can be included along end member 300.
  • mounting studs 312 can include a section 314 dimensioned for attachment to end member wall 302 in a suitable manner, such as, for example, by way of a flowed-material joint (not shown) or a press-fit connection (not identified).
  • mounting studs 312 can include a section 316 that extends axially from along section 314 and can include one or more helical threads 318. Section 316 can be dimensioned to extend through corresponding mounting holes HLS (FIG. 6) in upper structural component USC (FIG. 6) and can receive one or more securement devices (e.g., threaded nuts) 320. Mounting studs 312 can also include a section 322 that extends axially from along section 314 in a direction opposite section 316.
  • section 322 can extend into spring chamber 202 and can include one or more helical threads 324 dimensioned to receive one or more threaded nuts or other securement devices, such as, for example, may be used to secure one or more devices and/or components of end mount 700 on or along inside surface 310 of end member 300, for example.
  • one or more fluid communication ports or transfer passages can optionally be provided to permit fluid communication with the spring chamber, such as may be used for transferring pressurized gas into and/or out of the spring chamber, for example.
  • a transfer passage (not shown) can extend through one or more of the mounting studs.
  • end member 300 can include a passage fitting 326 that can be secured on or along end member wall 302 in a substantially fluid-tight manner, such as by way of a flowed-material joint 328, for example.
  • a transfer passage 330 can extend through end member wall 302 and passage fitting 326 that is in fluid communication with spring chamber 212. It will be appreciated, however, that any other suitable fluid communication arrangement could alternately be used.
  • End member 400 is shown as being disposed in axially-spaced relation to end member 300, and as including features associated with a type of end member commonly referred to as a piston (or a roll-off piston). It will be recognized that a wide variety of sizes, shapes, profiles and/or configurations can and have been used in forming end members of the type and kind referred to as pistons or roll-off pistons, such as end member 400, for example. As such, it will be appreciated that the walls and/or wall portions of the end member can be of any suitable shape, profile and/or configuration, such as may be useful to provide one or more desired performance characteristics, for example, and that the profile shown in FIGS. 2-1 1 and 13-18 is merely exemplary.
  • End member 400 can extend lengthwise between opposing ends 402 and 404 that are axially spaced from one another.
  • End member 400 can include an end member wall 406 that can have a first or outer side wall portion 408 that extends in a generally axial direction and includes an outside surface 410 and an inside surface 412.
  • End member 400 can also include a second or inner side wall portion 414 that also extends in a generally axial direction.
  • Inner side wall portion 414 is spaced radially inward from outer side wall portion 408 and includes an outside surface 416 and an inside surface 418.
  • inside surface 418 of inner side wall portion 414 can at least partially define an inner cavity 420 within end member 400.
  • end member 400 includes an outer cavity 422 extending into the end member between inside surface 412 of outer side wall portion 408 and outside surface 416 of inner side wall portion 414.
  • one or more support wall portions 424 can extend between and operatively interconnect the outer and inner side wall portions.
  • one or more bosses or projections can be provided on or along the end member wall, such as may be suitable for including one or more securement devices and/or securement features. In the exemplary arrangement shown in FIGS.
  • end member wall 406 can include boss wall portions 426 that can be formed or otherwise disposed along one or more of outer side wall portion 408, inner side wall portion 414 and/or support wall portions 424, for example.
  • one or more securement features e.g., threaded passages
  • one or more securement devices 428 such as threaded metal inserts, for example, can be at least partially embedded within one of more of boss wall portions 426. It will be appreciated, however, that other configurations and/or arrangements could alternately be used.
  • End member wall 406 can also include an end wall portion 430 that can extend across and/or between any combination of one or more of outer side wall portion 408, inner side wall portion 414 and/or support wall portions 424.
  • End wall portion 430 can be oriented transverse to axis AX and can at least partially form a closed end of inner cavity 420 of the end member.
  • end wall portion 430 can include opposing surfaces 432 and 434.
  • the one or more end members of the gas spring and gas damper assembly can be operatively connected or otherwise secured to the flexible spring member in any suitable manner.
  • end member wall 406 can, for example, include an outer surface 436 that extends peripherally about axis AX and is dimensioned to receive mounting bead 216 disposed along end 208 of the flexible wall 204 such that a substantially fluid-tight seal can be formed therebetween.
  • a retaining ridge 438 can project radially outward beyond outer surface 436 and can extend peripherally along at least a portion thereof, such as may assist in retaining end 208 of flexible wall 204 in abutting engagement on or along the end member.
  • outer surface 210 of flexible wall 204 can be disposed in abutting engagement with outside surface 410 of outer side wall portion 408.
  • flexible wall 204 of flexible spring member 200 can form a rolling lobe 220 along outside surface 410 of outer side wall portion 408.
  • rolling lobe 220 can be displaced along outer surface 410 in a generally conventional manner.
  • a gas spring and gas damper assembly in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure can include one or more elongated gas damping passages through which pressurized gas can flow to generate pressurized gas damping to dissipate kinetic energy acting on the gas spring and gas damper assembly.
  • one or more elongated gas damping passages can be of any suitable size, shape, configuration and/or arrangement.
  • any number of one or more features and/or components can be used, either alone or in combination with one another, to form or otherwise establish such one or more elongated gas damping passages.
  • a gas spring and gas damper assembly in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure can include one or more elongated gas damping passages fluidically connected between the spring chamber and one or more damping chambers or damping chamber portions.
  • pressurized gas damping performance exceeding that provided by conventional gas damping orifice designs can be achieved through the use of such one or more elongated gas damping passages, particularly with respect to a given or otherwise predetermined range of frequencies of vibration or other dynamic input.
  • the one or more elongated gas damping passages can be dimensioned such that pressurized gas flows into, out of and/or otherwise is displaced within the elongated gas damping passage or passages.
  • pressurized gas flow can generate pressurized gas damping of vibrations and/or other dynamic inputs acting on the overall assembly and/or system.
  • pressurized gas damping can be configured for or otherwise targeted to dissipate vibrations and/or other dynamic inputs having a particular, predetermined natural frequency or within a particular, predetermine range of frequencies.
  • a gas spring and gas damper assembly in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure can include one or more elongated gas damping passages in fluid communication between the spring chamber and one or more damping chambers or damping chamber portions. Differential pressure between the volumes can induce gas flow along at least a portion of the length of the elongated gas damping passage. It will be appreciated that such movement of the pressurized gas within and/or through an elongated gas damping passage can act to dissipate kinetic energy acting on the assembly and/or system.
  • the cross-sectional area and overall length of the elongated gas damping passage can be dimensioned, sized and/or otherwise configured to generate gas flow having sufficient mass and sufficient velocity to achieve the desired level of pressurized gas damping.
  • the elongated gas damping passages can be dimensioned, sized and/or otherwise configured such that one or more performance characteristics, such as peak Loss Stiffness, for example, of the system occur at approximately a desired or target frequency or otherwise within a desired or targeted frequency range.
  • targeted frequency ranges can include vibrations from 1 -7 Hz, vibrations from 8-14 Hz and vibrations from 15-25 Hz.
  • end member wall 406 of end member 400 can include a plurality of recesses 440 that can extend into end member wall 406 from along surface 432.
  • Recesses 440 are shown as being disposed in peripherally spaced relation to one another about axis AX. The recesses are also shown as being spaced radially outward from the axis toward outer surface 436 and varying in size and shape relative to one another.
  • recesses 440 are blind recesses and include a bottom surface 442 such that the recesses do not extend or otherwise form a passage through end member wall 406.
  • End member wall 406 of end member 400 can include an opening or passage 444 extending through end wall portion 430 between surfaces 432 and 434.
  • passage 444 can be oriented in approximately co-axial alignment with axis AX.
  • passage 444 can be dimensioned to receive and permit one or more components of gas damper assembly GD1 to extend through end wall portion 430, as discussed in greater detail below.
  • End member 400 can also include a passage or port 446 extending into and at least partially through end wall portion 430 of end member wall 406 from along surface 432.
  • passage 446 is disposed radially outward of opening 444 and adjacent or otherwise toward outer surface 436 of end wall portion 430.
  • End member 400 can further include an elongated damping passage 448 extending into, through or otherwise along at least a portion of end wall portion 430 of end member wall 406.
  • elongated damping passage 448 has a first end 450 disposed in fluid communication with port 446 and a second end 452 disposed radially inward of port 446.
  • the passage or port could be disposed radially inward adjacent or otherwise toward passage 444 with the second end of the elongated damping passage disposed radially outward of the first end.
  • elongated damping passage 448 can be of any suitable shape, form, configuration and/or arrangement.
  • elongated damping passage 448 can have a spiral-like or similar configuration.
  • the elongated damping passage can be at least partially formed by a passage surface 454 that has a cross-sectional profile.
  • the cross-sectional profile can vary along the length of the elongated damping passage.
  • the cross-sectional profile can be of an approximately uniform size, shape and configuration along the length of the elongated damping passage, such as is shown in FIGS. 7-10 and 16-18, for example.
  • the cross-sectional profile is taken from an orientation that is normal, perpendicular or at least transverse to the spiral-like path of the elongated damping passage. That is, the cross-sectional profile is oriented transverse to axis AX and is substantially-continuously rotated about the axis with the cross-sectional profile substantially-continuously displaced radially outward from adjacent axis AX to form the spiral-like configuration. In a preferred arrangement, such rotation of the cross- sectional profile of passage surface 454 can occur in an approximately single plane such that the spiral-like configuration of elongated damping passage 448 is disposed in a common plane that is oriented transverse to longitudinal axis AX.
  • the cross-sectional profile of passage surface 454 can be endless or otherwise fully enclosed. In such cases, the corresponding elongated damping passage can be substantially-entirely embedded within the end wall portion of the end member wall. In other cases, the cross-sectional profile of passage surface 454 can be open (i.e., not fully enclosed). In such cases, the corresponding elongated damping passage can be open along one or more surfaces of end wall portion 430 of end member wall 406. For example, the cross-sectional profile of passage surface 454 is shown as having an approximately U-shaped cross-sectional configuration.
  • elongated damping passage 448 is formed within end wall portion 430 of end member wall 406 as an open channel that is accessible from along surface 434 of the end wall portion. It will be appreciated, however, that other configurations and/or arrangements could alternately be used. For example, a cross-sectional profile in a C-shaped configuration could be used.
  • damper housing 500 is operatively engaged with end member 400 and at least partially defines a damping chamber 502 on, along and/or within at least a portion of end member 400. Additionally, damper housing 500 secured on or along end member 400 such that forces and loads acting on one of upper and lower structural components USC and LSC can be transmitted or otherwise communicated to the other of upper and lower structural components USC and LSC at least partially through gas spring and gas damper assembly AS1.
  • Damper housing 500 can include or be otherwise formed from any combination of one or more components and/or devices.
  • damper housing 500 can include a housing sleeve 504 that can be at least partially formed from a sleeve wall 506 that extends axially between opposing ends 508 and 510.
  • Sleeve wall 506 can extend peripherally about axis AX and can, in some case, have an approximately uniform wall thickness.
  • sleeve wall 506 can have an approximately circular cross-sectional profile such that the inner sleeve is approximately cylindrical in overall shape. It will be appreciated, however, that other configurations and/or arrangements could alternately be used.
  • sleeve wall 506 includes an outer surface 512 that extends substantially-continuously around and along housing sleeve 504.
  • sleeve wall 506 is dimensioned to be received within inner cavity 420 of end member 400 with outer surface 512 disposed in facing relation to inside surface 418 of inner side wall portion 414.
  • Sleeve wall 506 can also include an inner surface 514 that extends substantially-continuously around and along housing sleeve 504 and can at least partially define damping chamber 502.
  • gas spring and gas damper assembly AS1 is displaceable, during use in normal operation, between extended and compressed conditions.
  • pressurized gas flow between spring chamber 202 and damping chamber 502 through elongated damping passage 448 generates pressurized gas damping.
  • the cross-sectional profile of the elongated damping passage can be endless or otherwise fully enclosed such that the corresponding elongated damping passage is substantially-entirely embedded within the end wall portion of the end member wall.
  • the cross-sectional profile of elongated damping passage 448 can be open or otherwise not fully enclosed.
  • damper housing 500 can include an end plate 516 that can extend across and at least partially enclose elongated damping passage 448.
  • end plate 516 can take the form of a substantially planar wall having an outer peripheral edge 518 and opposing side surfaces 520 and 522. End plate 516 can also include an inner peripheral edge 524 that at least partially defines a hole or opening 526 extending therethrough. In a preferred arrangement, hole 526 can be positioned approximately centrally on end plate 516 and can be dimensioned to receive and permit one or more components of gas damper assembly GD1 to extend through end wall portion 430, as discussed in greater detail below. End plate 516 can also include a passage or port 528 extending therethrough that is dimensioned for fluid communication with second end 452 of elongated damping passage 448.
  • end plate 516 can include one or more indexing or alignment features that operatively engage one or more other features and/or components of end member 400 and/or damper housing 500.
  • end member 400 could include one or more projections 456 or other indexing features that extend axially outwardly from along surface 434 of end wall portion 430.
  • End plate 516 can include one or more indexing holes 530 that extend through the end plate and are cooperative with projections 456 to orient and align end plate 516 relative to end wall portion 430 of end member wall 406.
  • one or more holes or openings could be included on or along the end wall portion of the end member wall, and one or more projections could be included on or along the end plate.
  • cooperative engagement of alignment or indexing features (e.g., projections 456) of end member 400 with alignment or indexing features (e.g., indexing holes 530) of end plate 516 can aid in assembly and assist in ensuring that port 528 and second end 452 of elongated damping passage 448 are at least approximately aligned and in fluid communication with one another.
  • end plate 516 can be secured on or along surface 434 of end wall portion 430 of end member wall 406 in any suitable manner and/or through the use of any combination of one or more features and/or components.
  • end plate 516 can be disposed between end member 400 and housing sleeve 504 such that surface 520 is disposed in facing relation with surface 434 of end wall portion 430.
  • end 508 of housing sleeve 504 can abuttingly engage the end plate along outer peripheral edge 518 to retain the end plate in position relative to the end wall portion of the end member wall.
  • damper housing 500 can include a support ring 532 that can be secured on or along end wall portion 430 of end member wall 406 in operative engagement with end plate 516 to at least partially retain the end plate on or along surface 434 of the end wall portion.
  • Support ring 532 can include an annular wall with a first outer surface portion 534 having a first cross-sectional size or dimension that is cooperative with passage 444 in end wall portion 430 of end member wall 406.
  • Support ring 532 can also include a second outer surface portion 536 that is spaced axially from the first outer surface portion and has a second cross-sectional size or dimension that is greater than the first cross-sectional size or dimension of first outer surface portion 534 such that a shoulder surface portion 538 extends radially therebetween.
  • Support ring 532 can be installed on end wall portion 430 of end member wall 406 with first outer surface portion 534 at least partially disposed within passage 444 and can be secured on the end wall portion in any suitable manner, such as by way of a threaded connection, a press-fit connection and/or a flowed-material joint, for example. In such case, support ring 532 can at least partially secure end plate 516 on or along end wall portion 430.
  • first outer surface portion 534 can extend through opening 526 in end plate 516 such that shoulder surface portion 538 can abuttingly engage the end plate along inner peripheral edge 524.
  • Support ring 532 can also include an inner surface 540 that at least partially defines a passage or opening 542 extending through support ring 532 between opposing end surfaces 544 and 546. In an installed condition, passage 542 dimensioned to receive and permit one or more components of gas damper assembly GD1 to extend through end wall portion 430, as discussed in greater detail below.
  • one or more sealing elements could be disposed between surface 434 of end wall portion 430 and surface 520 of end plate 516 to at least partially form a substantially fluid-tight seal therebetween.
  • a flowed material joint could be formed between the surface of the end wall portion and the surface of the end plate.
  • damper housing 500 can also include an end cap 550 operatively disposed along end 510 of housing sleeve 504 and secured thereto such that gas spring and gas damper assembly AS1 can function to transfer forces and loads between upper and lower structural components USC and LSC, as discussed above.
  • End cap 550 can be configured to secure gas spring and gas damper assembly AS1 on or along an associated structural component, such as lower structural component LSC, for example. It will be appreciated any suitable combination of feature, elements and/or components can be used to form such a connection.
  • end cap can include a spherical bearing or other similar component operatively connected between the end cap mount and the associated structural component (e.g., lower structural component LSC).
  • end cap 550 can include an end cap wall 552 that includes a passage (not numbered) formed therethrough generally transverse to axis AX. End cap wall 552 can function as an outer support element and an inner support element 554 can be disposed within the passage.
  • An elastomeric connector element 556 can be permanently attached (i.e., inseparable without damage, destruction or material alteration of at least one of the component parts) between end cap wall 552 and inner support element 554 to form an elastomeric bushing 558 suitable for pivotally mounting assembly AS1 on or along the associated structural component.
  • End cap wall 552 can include a base wall portion 560 oriented approximately transverse to axis AX and a side wall portion 562 that extends axially from along base wall portion 560 toward a distal edge 564.
  • Base wall portion 560 can have a base surface 566 and side wall portion 562 can have an inner side surface 568.
  • Base wall portion 560 and side wall portion 562 can at least partially define an end cap cavity 570 that is dimensioned to receive end 510 of housing sleeve 504 with outer surface 512 disposed in facing relation to inner side surface 568 of side wall portion 562.
  • damper housing 500 can also include an end plate 572 in the form of a substantially planar wall having an outer peripheral edge 574 and opposing side surfaces 576 and 578. It will be appreciated that end plate 572 can be secured on or along end cap 550 in any suitable manner and/or through the use of any combination of one or more features and/or components.
  • end plate 572 can be disposed between end cap 550 and housing sleeve 504 such that side surface 578 is disposed in facing relation with base surface 566 of end cap wall 552.
  • end 510 of housing sleeve 504 can abuttingly engage end plate 572 along outer peripheral edge 574 to retain the end plate in position relative to end cap wall 552 of the end cap.
  • spring chamber 202 and damping chamber 502 are in fluid communication with one another through elongated damping passage 448 and any associated ports or passages. As such, it may be desirable to maintain spring chamber 202 and damping chamber 502 in fluidic isolation with respect to an external atmosphere ATM.
  • gas damper assembly GD1 substantially fluid-tight seals can be formed in any suitable manner between end member 400 and components of the gas damper assembly and/or between two or more components of gas damper assembly GD1 .
  • one or more sealing elements 580 can be fluidically disposed between inner side wall portion 414 of end member wall 406 and housing sleeve 504 such that a substantially fluid-tight seal is formed therebetween.
  • sealing elements 580 can be secured on, along or otherwise between such components in any suitable manner.
  • one or more annular grooves 582 can extend into inner side wall portion 414 from along inside surface 418 thereof that are dimensioned to receive and retain the sealing elements.
  • one or more sealing elements 584 can be fluidically disposed between side wall portion 562 of end cap wall 552 and housing sleeve 504 such that a substantially fluid-tight seal is formed therebetween.
  • sealing elements 584 can be secured on, along or otherwise between such components in any suitable manner.
  • one or more annular grooves 586 can extend into side wall portion 562 from along inner side surface 568 thereof that are dimensioned to receive and retain the sealing elements.
  • end cap wall 552 can include one or more passages 588 formed therethrough. Passages 588 can be oriented in approximate alignment with axis AX. Additionally, in a preferred arrangement, passages 588 can be disposed in approximate alignment with securement devices 428 of boss wall portions 426 on end member 400. In such case, securement devices 590 (e.g., threaded fasteners) can extend through passages 588 and into engagement with securement devices 428 to attach and secure end cap 550 on or along at least one of end member 400 and housing sleeve 504.
  • securement devices 590 e.g., threaded fasteners
  • one or more jounce bumpers can be included to inhibit contact between one or more features and/or components of assembly AS1.
  • a jounce bumper 592 can be disposed within a portion of damping chamber 502, such as by securement on or along second outer surface portion 536 of support ring 532, for example, to substantially inhibit contact between a component of damper rod assembly 600 and one or more of end member 400, end plate 516 and support ring 532 during a full rebound condition of assembly AS1.
  • a jounce bumper 594 can be disposed within a portion of damping chamber 502, such as by securement on or along a component of damper rod assembly 600, for example, to substantially inhibit contact between components of the damper rod assembly and end cap 550 and/or end plate 572 during a full jounce condition of assembly AS1.
  • Damper rod assembly 600 includes an elongated damper rod 602 and a damper piston 604. Damper rod 602 extends longitudinally from an end 606 to an end 608. End 606 of damper rod 602 can include a securement feature dimensioned for operatively connecting the damper rod on or along end member 300. As one example, damper rod 602 can include one or more helical threads disposed along end 606. Damper piston 604 can be disposed along end 608 of damper rod 602 and can be attached or otherwise connected thereto in any suitable manner. For example, the damper piston could be integrally formed with the damper rod.
  • end 608 of damper rod 602 could include a securement feature, such as one or more helical threads, for example.
  • damper piston 604 could be provided separately and could include a passage or hole (not numbered) into which end 608 of damper rod 602 can be secured.
  • a blind passage or hole can be used to assist in maintaining fluidic isolation across damper piston 604.
  • damper rod assembly 600 is disposed along gas spring assembly GS1 such that damper piston 604 is received within damping chamber 502 of damper housing 500.
  • damper rod 602 can extend through the passage 542 formed by support ring 532 and such that end 606 of damper rod 602 is disposed out of damping chamber 502.
  • support ring 532 can function as a bearing or bushing element operative to reduce frictional engagement on or along damper rod 602.
  • a sealing element (not shown) and/or a wear bushing can optionally be included on or along the support ring.
  • damper piston 604 separates damping chamber 502 into damping chamber portions 502A and 502B disposed along opposing sides of the damper piston.
  • a sealing element 610 can be disposed between an outer peripheral wall 612 of damper piston 604 and inner surface 514 of housing sleeve 504. It will be recognized, however, that in some cases significant frictional forces may be generated by the sealing arrangements described above in connection with the interface between damper piston 604 and inner surface 514 as well as in connection with the interface between an outer surface 614 of damper rod 602 and support ring 532.
  • damper rod 602 can take the form of a hollow rod that includes an inner surface 616.
  • a gas spring is also capable of accommodating nonlinear movement of the upper and lower structural components relative to one another.
  • a mounting assembly can be included that permits pivotal motion between at least one of the end members and the elongated damping rod to accommodate the nonlinear movement of the associated structural components relative to one another.
  • End mount assembly 700 can include a mounting bracket 702 that can be secured on or along end member 300 in a suitable manner.
  • mounting bracket 702 can operatively engage section 322 of mounting studs 312 and can be secured thereon by suitable securement devices, such as threaded fasteners 704 operatively engaging helical threads 324, for example.
  • Mounting bracket 702 can at least partially define a mounting cavity 706 with end member 300.
  • End mount assembly 700 can also include an inner mounting element 708 dimensioned for securement on or along end 606 of damper rod 602.
  • inner mounting element 708 can be of any suitable size, shape and/or configuration.
  • inner mounting element 708 can include an element wall 710 with a connector portion 712 dimensioned for securement to the damper rod and a flange portion 714 projecting radially outward from connector portion 712.
  • Flange portion 714 has a first side 716 facing toward connection portion 712 and a second side 718 facing away from the connector portion and toward end member 300.
  • End mount assembly 700 can include a first plurality of bushing elements 720 disposed along first side 716 of flange portion 714 of the inner mounting element.
  • bushing elements 720 are disposed in peripherally-spaced relation to one another about axis AX and/or about first side 716 of flange portion 714.
  • End mount assembly 700 can also include a second plurality of bushing elements 722 disposed along second side 718 of flange portion 714 of the inner mounting element.
  • bushing elements 722 are disposed in peripherally- spaced relation to one another about axis AX and/or about second side 718 of the flange portion of the inner mounting element.
  • a common quantity of bushing elements 720 and 722 can be used with the bushing elements disposed in an approximately uniform spacing or pattern about axis AX and/or along the respective side of the flange portion of inner mounting element 708. Additionally, in a preferred arrangement, bushing elements 720 and 722 can be arranged on opposing sides of flange portion 714 in an interleaved or otherwise alternating pattern or configuration with respect to one another. It will be appreciated, however, that other configurations and/or arrangements could alternately be used.
  • end mount assembly 700 can, optionally, include a third plurality of bushing elements 724 disposed along one side of the flange portion of the inner mounting element.
  • bushing elements 724 are disposed along second side 718 of flange portion 714.
  • Bushing elements 724 are shown as being disposed in peripherally-spaced relation with one another about axis AX and/or along the second side of the flange portion.
  • bushing elements 724 are shown as being positioned radially inward relative to bushing elements 722 with bushing elements 724 interleaved or otherwise disposed between adjacent ones of bushing elements 722.
  • bushing elements 720 and 722 as well as bushing elements 724, if included, can be formed from any suitable material or combination of materials.
  • bushing elements 720 and 722 as well as bushing elements 724, if included, can be formed from an elastomeric material, such as a natural rubber, a synthetic rubber and/or a thermoplastic elastomer.
  • an elastomeric material such as a natural rubber, a synthetic rubber and/or a thermoplastic elastomer.
  • such an elastomeric material could have a Shore A durometer within a range of approximately 50 to approximately 90.
  • bushing elements 720 and 722 as well as bushing elements 724 can be secured on or along flange portion 714 of inner mounting element 708 in any suitable manner.
  • one or more of the bushing elements can be removably attached to the flange portion of the inner mounting element.
  • some or all of bushing elements 720 and 722 as well as bushing elements 724, if provided, can be permanently attached (i.e., inseparable without damage, destruction or material alteration of at least one of the component parts) to flange portion 714.
  • bushing elements 720 and 722 as well as bushing elements 724, if included, can be disposed within one or more pockets or recesses formed within the inner mounting element.
  • the combination of bushing elements and recess walls can be configured to provide a desired combination of spring rate, deflection and/or other performance characteristics. In the arrangement shown in FIGS.
  • inner mounting element 708 can include a first plurality of recesses 726 that extend into flange portion 714 from along first side 716. In a preferred arrangement, recesses 726 are dimensioned to receive and engage bushing elements 720. Additionally, or in the alternative, inner mounting element 708 can include a second plurality of recesses 728 can extend into flanged portion 714 from along second side 718. In a preferred arrangement, recesses 728 are dimensioned to receive and engage bushing elements 722.
  • the quantity of recesses 726 and 728 can, at a minimum, correspond to the quantity of bushing elements 720 and 722 included in end mount assembly 700. Furthermore, recesses 726 and 728 can be disposed in an approximately uniform spacing or pattern about axis AX and/or along the respective side of the flange portion of inner mounting element 708. Further still, in a preferred arrangement, recesses 726 and 728 can be arranged on opposing sides of flange portion 714 in an interleaved or otherwise alternating pattern or configuration with respect to one another, as discussed above in connection with bushing elements 720 and 722. It will be appreciated, however, that other configurations and/or arrangements could alternately be used.
  • end mount assembly 700 can permit damper rod 602 to pivot or otherwise move by displacing inner mounting element 708 relative to mounting bracket 702.
  • Such movement of inner mounting element 708 can compress one or more of bushing elements 720 into abutting engagement with mounting bracket 702 and can urge one or more of bushing elements 722 into abutting engagement with end member 300.
  • bushing elements 720 and 722 begin to compress.
  • one or more of bushing elements 724 can also contact end member 300 thereby increasing the spring rate and/or reducing further deflection of inner mounting element relative to mounting bracket 702.
  • FIGS. 23-28 Another example of a gas spring and gas damper assembly AS2 in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure, such as may be suitable for use as one or more of gas spring and gas damper assemblies 102 in FIG. 1 , for example, is shown in FIGS. 23-28.
  • Gas spring and gas damper assembly AS2 is shown as including a gas spring (or gas spring assembly) GS2, such as may correspond to one of gas springs 104 in FIG. 1 , for example, and a gas damper (or gas damper assembly) GD2, such as may correspond to one of gas dampers 106 in FIG. 1 , for example.
  • Gas spring assembly GS2 and gas damper assembly GD2 can be operatively secured to one another and fluidically coupled with one another in any suitable manner, such as is described hereinafter, for example.
  • a longitudinal axis AX extends lengthwise along assembly AS2, as shown in FIGS. 23 and 24.
  • Gas spring assembly GS2 can include a flexible spring member 200, such as has been previously described in detail, that can extend peripherally around axis AX and can be secured between opposing end members (or end member assemblies) 300, such as has been previously described in detail, and 800 in a substantially fluid-tight manner such that a spring chamber 202 is at least partially defined therebetween.
  • Gas damper assembly GD2 can include a damper housing 900 that is operatively supported on or along end member 800 and a damper rod assembly 600, such as has been previously described in detail, that is operatively associated with damper housing 900.
  • An end mount 700 such as has been previously described in detail, can operatively connect damper rod assembly 600 with end member 300.
  • End member 800 can extend lengthwise between opposing ends 802 and 804 that are axially spaced from one another.
  • End member 800 can include an end member wall 806 that can have a first or outer side wall portion 808 that extends in a generally axial direction and includes an outside surface 810 and an inside surface 812.
  • End member 800 can also include a second or inner side wall portion 814 that also extends in a generally axial direction.
  • Inner side wall portion 814 is spaced radially inward from outer side wall portion 808 and includes an outside surface 816 and an inside surface 818.
  • inside surface 818 of inner side wall portion 814 can at least partially define an inner cavity 820 within end member 800.
  • end member 800 includes an outer cavity 822 extending into the end member between inside surface 812 of outer side wall portion 808 and outside surface 816 of inner side wall portion 814.
  • one or more support wall portions 824 can extend between and operatively interconnect the outer and inner side wall portions.
  • End member wall 806 can also include an end wall portion 826 that can extend across and/or between any combination of one or more of outer side wall portion 808, inner side wall portion 814 and/or support wall portions 824.
  • End wall portion 826 can be oriented transverse to axis AX and can at least partially form a closed end of inner cavity 820 of the end member. Additionally, end wall portion 826 can include opposing surfaces 828 and 830.
  • End member wall 806 can also include one or more engagement features disposed on or along end member 800, such as along end 804 thereof.
  • one or more receiver wall portions 832 can extend radially inward from along outer side wall portion 808 adjacent end 804. It will be appreciated that in some constructions a single, annular receiver wall portion could be provided. Alternately, a plurality of peripherally-spaced receiver wall portions could be included. In either case, the one or more receiver wall portions can at least partially define a retaining shoulder or shoulder surface portion 834 oriented transverse to axis AX and facing toward end 802 of end member 800.
  • end member wall 806 can, for example, include an outer mounting surface 836 that extends peripherally about axis AX and is dimensioned to receive mounting bead 216 disposed along end 208 of the flexible wall 204 such that a substantially fluid-tight seal can be formed therebetween, such as has been described above.
  • outer surface 210 of flexible wall 204 can be disposed in abutting engagement with outside surface 810 of outer side wall portion 808.
  • flexible wall 204 of flexible spring member 200 can form a rolling lobe 220 along outside surface 810 of outer side wall portion 808.
  • rolling lobe 220 can be displaced along outer surface 810 in a generally conventional manner.
  • damper housing 900 is operatively engaged with end member 800 and at least partially defines a damping chamber 902 on, along and/or within at least a portion of end member 800. Additionally, damper housing 900 can be secured on or along end member 900 such that forces and loads acting on one of upper and lower structural components USC and LSC can be transmitted or otherwise communicated to the other of upper and lower structural components USC and LSC at least partially through gas spring and gas damper assembly AS2.
  • Damper housing 900 can include or be otherwise formed from any combination of one or more components and/or devices.
  • damper housing 900 can include a housing sleeve 904 that can be at least partially formed from a sleeve wall 906 that extends axially between opposing ends 908 and 910.
  • Sleeve wall 906 can include a side wall portion 906S that extends peripherally about axis AX and an end wall portion 906E that is oriented transverse to axis AX.
  • side wall portion 906S can at least partially define an opening (not numbered) along end 908 and end wall portion 906E can substantially-entirely close end 910 of the housing sleeve.
  • side wall portion 906E can have an approximately circular cross-sectional profile such that the inner sleeve is approximately cylindrical in overall shape. It will be appreciated, however, that other configurations and/or arrangements could alternately be used.
  • side wall portion 906S of sleeve wall 906 can include an outer surface 912 that extends substantially-continuously around and along housing sleeve 904.
  • at least side wall portion 906S of sleeve wall 906 can be dimensioned to be received within inner cavity 820 of end member 800 with outer surface 912 disposed in facing relation to inside surface 818 of inner side wall portion 814.
  • Side wall portion 906S of sleeve wall 906 can also include an inner surface 914 that extends substantially-continuously around and along housing sleeve 904 and can at least partially define damping chamber 902.
  • gas spring and gas damper assembly AS2 is displaceable, during use in normal operation, between extended and compressed conditions.
  • pressurized gas flow between spring chamber 202 and damping chamber 902 through an elongated damping passage, such as passage 448 described above can generate pressurized gas damping.
  • the cross-sectional profile of the elongated damping passage can be endless or otherwise fully enclosed such that the corresponding elongated damping passage is substantially-entirely embedded within the end wall portion of the end member wall.
  • the cross-sectional profile of the elongated damping passage can be open or otherwise not fully enclosed.
  • damper housing 900 can include an end plate 916 that can extend across and at least partially enclose the elongated damping passage, such as has been described above in detail in connection with end member 400 and damper housing 500.
  • Damper housing 900 can also include a base 918 operatively disposed along end 910 of housing sleeve 904 and secured to end member 800 such that gas spring and gas damper assembly AS2 can function to transfer forces and loads between upper and lower structural components USC and LSC, as discussed above.
  • Base 918 can be configured to secure gas spring and gas damper assembly AS2 on or along an associated structural component, such as lower structural component LSC, for example. It will be appreciated any suitable combination of feature, elements and/or components can be used to form such a connection.
  • base 918 can include a base wall portion 920 that includes a pivotal mounting surface portion 922 that at least partially defines a passage (not numbered) formed through base wall portion 920 that is oriented generally transverse to axis AX.
  • base wall portion 920 is formed from a material that has properties sufficient for pivotal mounting surface portion 922 to function as an outer race for a spherical bearing assembly 924 formed along base 918.
  • a spherical bearing element 926 can be disposed within the passage formed by pivotal mounting surface portion 922.
  • Spherical bearing element 926 can include an outer surface portion (not numbered) disposed in abutting engagement with pivotal mounting surface portion 922 and an inner surface portion 928 that at least partially defines a passage through the spherical bearing element.
  • spherical bearing assembly 924 can, optionally, include inner support elements 930 and/or sealing elements 932 disposed in operative association with spherical bearing element 926.
  • Base 918 can include an end wall portion 934 oriented approximately transverse to axis AX and a side wall portion 936 that extends axially from along end wall portion 934 toward a distal edge 938. End wall portion 934 can have an end surface 940 and side wall portion 936 can have an inner side surface 942.
  • End wall portion 934 and side wall portion 936 can at least partially define a base cavity 944 that is dimensioned to receive end 910 of housing sleeve 904 with outer surface 912 disposed in facing relation to inner side surface 942 and end wall portion 906E facing toward end surface 940 of end wall portion 934.
  • base 918 can include one or more securement features disposed on or along side wall portion 936 toward distal edge 938 thereof that are operative to engage and secure base 918 on or along end member 800.
  • one or more retaining fingers 946 can project axially from along side wall portion 936 toward a cantilevered free end 948 having shoulder or shoulder surface portion 950 dimensioned to abuttingly engage shoulder surface portions 834 of receiver wall portions 832 of end member 800.
  • a plurality of retaining fingers 946 can be used, such as may be disposed in peripherally-spaced relation to one another about longitudinal axis AX, for example.
  • the end member and the base In an assembled condition of end member 800 and base 918, the end member and the base can be oriented in approximate alignment with one another (e.g., in approximately coaxial relation). Additionally, in an assembled condition, the end member and base can be positioned relative to one another in an axial direction such that such that receiver wall portion(s) 832 and retaining finger(s) 946 are axially co-extensive with one another.
  • outer side wall portion 808 of end member 800 can include a protective skirt wall portion 838 (FIG. 28) that extends axially beyond receiver wall portions 832 a distance sufficient to at least partially cover retaining fingers 946, such as to substantially inhibit inadvertent biasing of the retaining fingers in a radially inward direction.
  • spring chamber 202 and damping chamber 902 are in fluid communication with one another through the elongated damping passage (e.g., passage 448) and any associated ports or passages. As such, it may be desirable to maintain spring chamber 202 and damping chamber 902 in fluidic isolation with respect to an external atmosphere ATM.
  • gas damper assembly GD2 can include one or more substantially fluid-tight seals that can be formed in any suitable manner between end member 800 and components of the gas damper assembly and/or between two or more components of gas damper assembly GD2.
  • one or more sealing elements 952 can be fluidically disposed between inner side wall portion 814 of end member wall 806, side wall portion 936 of base 918 and/or outer surface 912 of housing sleeve 904 such that a substantially fluid-tight seal is formed therebetween. It will be appreciated that sealing elements 952 can be secured on, along or otherwise between such components in any suitable manner.
  • circumferential is to be broadly interpreted and can include, but are not limited to circular shapes and/or configurations.
  • the terms “circumferential,” “circumferentially,” and the like can be synonymous with terms such as “peripheral,” “peripherally,” and the like.
  • the phrase "flowed-material joint" and the like, if used herein, are to be interpreted to include any joint or connection in which a liquid or otherwise flowable material (e.g., a melted metal or combination of melted metals) is deposited or otherwise presented between adjacent component parts and operative to form a fixed and substantially fluid-tight connection therebetween.
  • a liquid or otherwise flowable material e.g., a melted metal or combination of melted metals
  • processes that can be used to form such a flowed-material joint include, without limitation, welding processes, brazing processes and soldering processes.
  • one or more metal materials and/or alloys can be used to form such a flowed-material joint, in addition to any material from the component parts themselves.
  • Another example of a process that can be used to form a flowed-material joint includes applying, depositing or otherwise presenting an adhesive between adjacent component parts that is operative to form a fixed and substantially fluid-tight connection therebetween.
  • any suitable adhesive material or combination of materials can be used, such as one-part and/or two-part epoxies, for example.
  • gas is used herein to broadly refer to any gaseous or vaporous fluid. Most commonly, air is used as the working medium of gas spring devices, such as those described herein, as well as suspension systems and other components thereof. However, it will be understood that any suitable gaseous fluid could alternately be used.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Vehicle Body Suspensions (AREA)
  • Fluid-Damping Devices (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne des ensembles éléments d'extrémité qui comprennent un élément d'extrémité, un élément de base et un manchon de logement. L'élément d'extrémité comprend une cavité d'élément d'extrémité et une partie de paroi réceptrice. L'élément de base comprend une cavité d'élément de base et au moins un doigt de retenue. Le manchon de logement délimite une chambre d'amortissement. L'élément d'extrémité et l'élément de base sont orientés de manière coaxiale l'un par rapport à l'autre de telle sorte que la partie de paroi réceptrice et ladite partie de paroi de doigt de retenue sont co-extensives de façon axiale l'une par rapport à l'autre, fixant l'élément d'extrémité et l'élément de base l'un à l'autre, le manchon de boîtier étant intercalé entre eux. L'invention concerne également des ensembles ressort à gaz et amortisseur à gaz comprenant les ensembles d'éléments d'extrémité et les systèmes et procédés de suspension.
PCT/US2017/067242 2016-12-30 2017-12-19 Ensembles éléments d'extrémité et ensembles ressort à gaz et amortisseur à gaz, systèmes et procédés de suspension WO2018125662A1 (fr)

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US201662441098P 2016-12-30 2016-12-30
US62/441,098 2016-12-30

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Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20230048082A1 (en) * 2019-12-31 2023-02-16 Firestone Industrial Products Company, Llc Gas spring and damper assemblies as well as suspension systems including same

Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20070114706A1 (en) * 2004-11-04 2007-05-24 Bfs Diversified Products, Llc Extensible end member for gas spring assembly
US20110115139A1 (en) * 2008-07-09 2011-05-19 Moulik Pradipta N Gas spring and gas damper assembly and method
US20130193664A1 (en) * 2012-01-29 2013-08-01 Stephen R. Egolf Jounce bumper, end member, gas spring assembly and method of assembly
US20150008627A1 (en) * 2011-11-16 2015-01-08 Joshua R. Leonard Axial clutch assembly as well as gas spring and gas damper assembly and method including same
WO2016168500A1 (fr) * 2015-04-17 2016-10-20 Firestone Industrial Products Company, Llc Ensembles éléments d'extrémité et ensembles ressorts à gaz, systèmes et procédés de suspension

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20070114706A1 (en) * 2004-11-04 2007-05-24 Bfs Diversified Products, Llc Extensible end member for gas spring assembly
US20110115139A1 (en) * 2008-07-09 2011-05-19 Moulik Pradipta N Gas spring and gas damper assembly and method
US20150008627A1 (en) * 2011-11-16 2015-01-08 Joshua R. Leonard Axial clutch assembly as well as gas spring and gas damper assembly and method including same
US20130193664A1 (en) * 2012-01-29 2013-08-01 Stephen R. Egolf Jounce bumper, end member, gas spring assembly and method of assembly
WO2016168500A1 (fr) * 2015-04-17 2016-10-20 Firestone Industrial Products Company, Llc Ensembles éléments d'extrémité et ensembles ressorts à gaz, systèmes et procédés de suspension

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20230048082A1 (en) * 2019-12-31 2023-02-16 Firestone Industrial Products Company, Llc Gas spring and damper assemblies as well as suspension systems including same
US11932067B2 (en) * 2019-12-31 2024-03-19 Firestone Industrial Products Company, Llc Gas spring and damper assemblies as well as suspension systems including same

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