Rubber Patents (Class 267/153)
  • Publication number: 20110187035
    Abstract: A compression spring assembly can include a compression spring core and a compression spring shell that can be assembled onto the compression spring core. The compression spring core can include a core body with an outer core wall. The compression spring shell can include a shell body having an inner shell wall. The compression spring shell can be supported on the compression spring core such that the inner shell wall extends along at least a portion of the outer core wall. A method of manufacturing a compression spring assembly is also included.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2009
    Publication date: August 4, 2011
    Inventors: Jakob B. Cagle, Albert S. Phillips
  • Publication number: 20110156327
    Abstract: Disclosed are a bump stopper and a manufacturing method therefor which can maintain the shock-absorbing characteristics and durability performance constantly for a prolonged period of time regardless of the temperature or humidity of the usage environment, which can maintain a constant dimensional precision for a finished product, which is excellent in material yield rate and manufacturing efficiency, and which is low-cost, lightweight, recyclable, and ecological. A bump stopper (1) is provided in the vicinity of a rod of a shock absorber to elastically limit the stroke of the shock absorber at the time of the contraction thereof and to absorb the shock generated at that time. The bump stopper includes a hollow cylindrical bellows part (11) which extends along a stroke direction S of the shock absorber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2009
    Publication date: June 30, 2011
    Inventors: Kenji Nobusue, Tatsuo Yamada
  • Publication number: 20110140326
    Abstract: The invention relates to a hollow spring element of which the outer surface has at least one peripheral notch, which has at its base a notch geometry with a radius of curvature of less than 1 mm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2009
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Applicant: BASF SE
    Inventor: Mario Wolff
  • Publication number: 20110126356
    Abstract: A spring element unit for a padding element, especially a mattress, comprises a plurality of spring elements. The spring element consists of an open-cell polyurethane flexible foam material and comprises at least one recess. Such a spring element unit is used in a padding element, especially a mattress, which comprises a base body for receiving the spring element unit. Such a spring element unit prevents a build-up of heat and humidity between the body and the supporting padding element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2010
    Publication date: June 2, 2011
    Applicant: Metzeler Schaum GmbH
    Inventors: Maik STEPPAT, Barbara Puane, Manfred Hohenhorst, Volker Maidhof, Andreas Bauer
  • Publication number: 20110109028
    Abstract: An elastomeric compression including an elastomeric body defining a longitudinal axis and having two hollow convolutions between opposed ends of the spring. The convolutions are integrally formed and joined to each other by a connecting section. Each hollow convolution includes wall structure defining an outer surface for the spring. The wall structure of each convolution includes two angled wall sections disposed to opposed sides of the axis and which angle away from the connecting section and from each other. The outer surface of that portion of each angled wall section of each convolution adjacent to the connecting section has a projection extending outwardly from the outer surface. As such, and when the angled wall sections of one convolution collapse toward the angled wall sections of the other convolution, in response to a load being directed against the spring, the opposed projections on the convolutions contact and engage with each other thereby enhancing performance characteristics of the spring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2009
    Publication date: May 12, 2011
    Inventor: Scott E. Zabelka
  • Publication number: 20110074075
    Abstract: A cushioning element includes a two-sided membrane. The membrane may be of any size and shape appropriate to a desired application. Units extend from each side of the membrane with units on one side staggered or offset from those of the other. Depressing a unit on one side of the membrane causes displacement of at least part of the other side of the membrane into the space opposite to the depressed unit. Releasing the depressed unit allows the membrane to return to at least substantially its previous position. Membrane resiliency may be consistent throughout an embodiment or part(s) may be differently resilient. Units may be consistent in resiliency, size and/or shape on one or both sides of an embodiment, or may vary on one or both sides. Membrane and units may be integrally made in whole or in part within an embodiment. The cushioning element may have vibration dampening characteristics.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventors: George Travie Henry, JR., Diane Marie Henry
  • Publication number: 20100289197
    Abstract: A spring wall for securement between associated end members for forming an associated gas spring assembly includes a first wall portion that extends axially along a longitudinal axis and circumferentially thereabout. The first wall portion is formed from an unreinforced elastomeric material, and the first wall portion has a first nominal stiffness value. A second wall portion extends along the longitudinal axis and circumferentially thereabout. The second wall portion is disposed in longitudinal relation to the first wall portion and has a second nominal stiffness value that is different from the first nominal stiffness value of the first wall portion such that a non-constant stiffness profile is established along a longitudinal length of the spring wall. A gas spring and a gas spring and reservoir assembly utilizing such a spring wall as well as a method of manufacturing a gas spring are also included.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2010
    Publication date: November 18, 2010
    Applicant: FIRESTONE INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS COMPANY, LLC
    Inventors: Joshua R. Leonard, Pradipta N. Moulik
  • Patent number: 7827636
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a gelastic cushion. The gelastic cushion is made from a conventional gelastic composition. The gelastic cushion has a structure having a first wall that defines an opening area and buckles when a force is applied to the first wall. When the first wall buckles a predetermined amount, a second wall, interconnected to the first wall, also buckles. The second wall decreases the chance that the first wall bottoms out. Bottoming out increases the pressure on the patient (a.k.a., the force) overlying the gelastic cushion. That increased pressure is undesirable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: Gaymar Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Roland E. Flick, Joel T. Jusiak
  • Patent number: 7827977
    Abstract: The present invention provides for a collapsible locking slingshot having a quick-release interchangeable band replacement safety system. The present invention also includes a self-centering, open-pocket slingshot pouch and a unique dual-tapered band. The slingshot collapses into a lockable case, improving the slingshot's safety, and enhancing the protection and longevity of the slingshot's components. The slingshot incorporates a unique shoot-over design in which the arms generally are parallel to the shooter's arm during operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: Saunders Archery Company
    Inventor: Charles Saunders
  • Patent number: 7823233
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a gelastic cushion. The gelastic cushion is made from a conventional gelastic composition. The gelastic cushion has a structure having a first wall that defines an opening area and buckles when a force is applied to the first wall. When the first wall buckles a predetermined amount, a second wall, interconnected to the first wall, also buckles. The second wall decreases the chance that the first wall bottoms out. Bottoming out increases the pressure on the patient (a.k.a., the force) overlying the gelastic cushion. That increased pressure is undesirable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Gaymar Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Roland E. Flick, Joel T. Jusiak
  • Patent number: 7823234
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a gelastic cushion. The gelastic cushion is made from a conventional gelastic composition. The gelastic cushion has a structure having a first wall that defines an opening area and buckles when a force is applied to the first wall. When the first wall buckles a predetermined amount, a second wall, interconnected to the first wall, also buckles. The second wall decreases the chance that the first wall bottoms out. Bottoming out increases the pressure on the patient (a.k.a., the force) overlying the gelastic cushion. That increased pressure is undesirable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Gaymar Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Roland E. Flick, Joel T. Jusiak
  • Publication number: 20100257752
    Abstract: A shoe includes a first plate and a second plate that are located in a forefoot portion of the shoe between an upper and an outsole of the shoe, and one or more springs for biasing the first plate and the second plate apart from each other. A device for a shoe includes a first plate and a second plate that are installable in a forefoot portion of the shoe, and an energy return member positioned between the first plate and the second plate. A method of using a shoe includes applying, with a foot, a force on at least one of two plates that is positioned in a forefoot portion of a shoe, so as to move the two plates together and increase a loading of a spring, and launching the foot due to the two plates being moved apart by the spring as the foot is being lifted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2010
    Publication date: October 14, 2010
    Inventors: Mark Goldston, Adam Goldston, Ryan Goldston, Jon Bemis
  • Patent number: 7806230
    Abstract: A resilient mount useful in a muffler assembly includes a support arm, a bracket arm and at least one resilient portion. In one example, the resilient portion comprises neoprene to provide a cushion between the support arm and the bracket arm. The resilient mount is for supporting at least one absorptive body within a housing and isolating the housing from vibrations of the absorptive body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: Carrier Corporation
    Inventor: John J. Jacobs
  • Patent number: 7798464
    Abstract: This is a mounting support that secures an electrostatic marking machine to the deck of a ship or other structure. This support provides vibration-isolating systems for shipboard mounting of these marking machines. The US Navy has imposed strict one-man, short-time requirements to mount and unmount electrostatic marking machines on a ship's deck. A key feature of the present embodiments is a double-threaded stud that lifts the machine off the floor onto the isolation mounts while securing it to the mount which is bolted to the ship's deck. The present configuration satisfies the new Navy mandate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Xerox Corporation
    Inventor: Charles R. Brewer, III
  • Patent number: 7793922
    Abstract: A bound stopper provided with a drainage path for draining water that has passed through drainage holes formed in a bottom portion of a bracket. The drainage path is constituted by a recessed portion formed on at least one of a plurality of corresponding portions of a fixing metal fitting and the recessed portion opens outward in a direction perpendicular to an axial direction of the fitting. The corresponding portions are positioned so as to correspond to each of the plurality of the drainage holes, upon the fitting being in contact with the bracket. A locating projection is provided on an outer surface of the corresponding portion different from the corresponding portion having the recessed portion. Insertion of a locating projection into the drainage hole corresponding to the different corresponding portion allows the fitting to be circumferentially positioned such that the corresponding portions correspond to the drainage holes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Assignee: Tokai Rubber Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Michiharu Hikosaka, Yasutaka Fukumoto, Takuya Hishinuma, Fumitake Murakami
  • Publication number: 20100224016
    Abstract: A device for a vibrator, including at least one resilient element, with a force/travel curve having a first region, at least approximately given by an equation of formula K=a+b*W, where K is the spring force of the at least one resilient element, W is the spring travel and a and b are number greater than zero and a vibrator including such a device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2008
    Publication date: September 9, 2010
    Applicant: Abi Anlagentechnik Baumaschinen-Industriebedarf Maschinefabrik Und Vertriebsgesellschaft MBH
    Inventors: Albrecht Kleibl, Christian Heichel
  • Patent number: 7780153
    Abstract: A connecting bearing for elastic connection between at least two elements. The connecting bearing includes a first fastening device and a second fastening device. The first fastening device and second fastening device are each mechanically coupled by a elastomer means. The elastomer means is constructed and used as a vibration insulator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: BOMAG GmbH
    Inventors: Thomas Haubrich, Thomas Klein
  • Patent number: 7780155
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device to filter and damp the vibrations between a first element subjected to an incident vibratory wave and a second element radiating a filtered vibratory wave. This device comprises an interface structure to transfer vibratory energy constituted by at least one elastic component and at least one dissipative component attached in parallel to the elastic component to ensure the filtration and damping of the incident vibratory wave, the dissipative component being constituted by two separate rigid frames ensuring, punctually or continuously, deflection functions, if required, by a lever arm effect, amplification of the vibratory energies generated by the elastic components towards a dissipative material positioned between them, the dissipative component providing damping for the elastic component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: Artec Aerospace
    Inventors: Marc Capdepuy, Philippe Verdun
  • Patent number: 7770874
    Abstract: A spring member extending from a first end to a second end about a longitudinal axis, the spring having an inherent bias to assume an extended position with a first end spaced from the second end along the axis, the spring assuming compressed positions when compressed by forces applied parallel to the axis, in the compressed positions the spring resiliently urges its first and second ends axially away from each other toward the extended position, the spring member having a wall in the shape of a solid of revolution rotated about the axis and defining a central cavity therein open at the first end of the spring and substantially closed at the second end of the spring, the wall when in the unbiased extended position having a greatest diameter at the first end and a least diameter at the second end, a plurality of openings through the wall, the openings disposed symmetrically both circumferentially and axially relative to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: Gotohii.com Inc.
    Inventors: Heiner Ophardt, Ali Mirbach
  • Publication number: 20100176543
    Abstract: A sign pole guard designed to encapsulate a U-channel metal sign post with a sheet of transparent, flexible material having a reflective covering to provided better visibility and an added layer of protection for individuals who may come into physical contact with the sign post itself. In addition, the sign pole guard comprises a strip of transparent, flexible material to be affixed to the edging of a metal street sign for added protection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2009
    Publication date: July 15, 2010
    Inventors: Kenneth Burke, Kris Mistretta, Timothy Regan
  • Patent number: 7753349
    Abstract: A radial cushioning apparatus including an inner member, an outer member, and an elastomer. The inner member accommodates a shaft passing endwise therethrough. The outer member is arranged in radially spaced relation from the inner member. The elastomer is secured to the inner and outer members and defines a plurality of collapsible spaces into which elastomer material can flex thereby cushioning radial deflection of the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Assignee: Miner Elastomer Products Corporation
    Inventors: Ronald W. Kerr, Shellie Wonsowski, Michael P. Molitor, Terry J. Koehn, Richard J. Beranek
  • Patent number: 7748689
    Abstract: The invention provides for a radially flexible bushing, comprising an outer annular element, an inner rigid element surrounded by the outer element, an elastomer body, which adherently attaches the inner rigid element and the outer element. The elastomer body comprises spaced-apart arms extending radially from the inner rigid element to the outer element. It further comprises at least one radial stop for limiting the radial displacement of the inner rigid element. The radial stop, which is positioned on the outer element between the arms, comprises an arch having extremities joined to the outer element and a top oriented towards the rigid element. The arch defines together with the outer element a tubular cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: Paulstra CRC
    Inventors: Bertrand Thibault, Bertrand Barrio, Fred Stillman
  • Publication number: 20100164154
    Abstract: A resilient structure includes an inner blocking unit, an outer blocking unit, and an elastomer unit. A pressured section is disposed on an outer surface of the inner blocking unit. A securing portion is disposed on an inner surface of the pressured section. Another pressured section is disposed on an outer surface of the outer blocking unit. Another securing portion is disposed on an inner surface of the pressured section. Pressure resisting sections are respectively disposed on an inner and an outer end of the elastomer unit. The pressure resisting sections are respectively confined by the securing portions disposed on the blocking units. A pressure-release portion is formed between the pressure resisting sections of the elastomer unit. The pressure-release portion absorbs pressure and store resilient force for elastic recovery.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2008
    Publication date: July 1, 2010
    Inventor: Tan-Cheng Huang
  • Patent number: 7740235
    Abstract: A mount having an insulation body is arranged between a bearer and an elevator drive, wherein a fastening connects the elevator drive with the bearer. Plugs are embedded in the insulation body, wherein the plugs distributed in a grid-like manner in rows and columns over the insulation body. The plugs, which can be broken out, enable a uniform spring deflection in the case of different loading. The insulation body required for the respective application can be produced by breaking out the appropriate number of plugs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: Inventio AG
    Inventor: Marcel Schneider
  • Patent number: 7735280
    Abstract: A shock absorber for a sports floor assembly. The shock absorber has a base portion and a truncated pyramid portion. The base portion is formed of an elastomeric material and is connectable to a sub-flooring of the floor assembly with the second side positioned adjacent to the sub-flooring. The pyramid portion extends from the first side of the base portion. The pyramid portion is formed of an elastomeric material and has stepped sides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Inventor: Jim Louis Valentine
  • Patent number: 7730566
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a gelastic cushion. The gelastic cushion is made from a conventional gelastic composition. The gelastic cushion has a structure having a first wall that defines an opening area and buckles when a force is applied to the first wall. When the first wall buckles a predetermined amount, a second wall, interconnected to the first wall, also buckles. The second wall decreases the chance that the first wall bottoms out. Bottoming out increases the pressure on the patient (a.k.a., the force) overlying the gelastic cushion. That increased pressure is undesirable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Assignee: Gaymar Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Roland E. Flick, Joel T. Jusiak
  • Publication number: 20100133734
    Abstract: In a vibration control equipment 1 constituted by inserting an outer tube 20 of pair of damping rubbers 2A, 2B into an opening 30 of a bracket member 3, clamping the pair of damping rubbers 2A, 2B by means of plate members 4A, 4B, tightening a fastening member 5 for coupling the plate members 4A, 4B, and then compressing the rubber elastic bodies 22 of the damping rubbers 2A, 2B in the axial direction, the outside diameter of the outer tube 20 before tightening the fastening member 5 is smaller than the inside diameter of the fixing hole 30, the rubber elastic bodies 22 are compression deformed by tightening the fastening member 5 and thus a bracket member 3 is clamped by means of upper and lower flange portions 23, at least one of the rubber elastic bodies 22 is provided with mold cavity portions 26A, 26B and at least one of the pair of outer tubes 20 is provided with a positioning portion 24 for determining the circumferential position of the pair of damping rubbers 2A, 2B relative to the bracket member 3.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2008
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Applicant: BRIDGESTONE CORPORATION
    Inventor: Nobuhiro Fujiwara
  • Patent number: 7717407
    Abstract: The invention relates to a sleeve, in particular an outer sleeve assembly for an elastomer bearing (3), with a first, outer sleeve part (1) forming a slit (S1) being arranged coaxially with a second, inner sleeve part (2), which likewise comprises a slit (S2). The outer sleeve part (1) is, on its inner peripheral surface (I1), and the inner sleeve part (2) is, on its outer peripheral surface (O2), provided with a bonding-agent layer (HS1, HS2). The slits (S1, S2) of the sleeve parts (1, 2) are staggered in relation to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: Huhoco Metalloberflachenveredelung GmbH
    Inventor: Klaus Welsch
  • Patent number: 7712730
    Abstract: Shock dampener bumper for motor-vehicles, adapted to be applied on to motor-vehicles of various kind, both for personal uses and for sports contests, for protecting the constructive structure of each motor-vehicle from any possible damage and/or breakage thereof, in the case in which the motor-vehicle falls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: Lightech S.r.L.
    Inventor: Furlan Fabrizio
  • Patent number: 7703754
    Abstract: A limit stop with an elastomer resilient element, which is to be secured on a door or lid and/or on an opposing stationary vehicle section for damping forces generated when the door or lid strikes stationary chassis parts of a motor vehicle. The limit stop includes an additional damping section disposed adjacent to and cooperating with the elastic resilient element in a spring deflection direction of the resilient element. The damping section comprises at least two chambers filled with a fluid and a nozzle plate arranged between the chambers with at least one channel extending through the nozzle plate and connecting the chambers. The fluid is displaced from one of the chambers into the other chamber during a spring deflection of the elastomer resilient element, thereby producing a pressure force which is caused by the buildup in pressure when the volume of one of the chambers decreases and augments the return force of the resilient element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Hubert Siemer, Burkhard Meyer
  • Patent number: 7669648
    Abstract: A shock absorber for use with a lubricator assembly comprises a body made substantially of a polymer material. An end of the body is supportable by a cup. Upon plunger strike, the cup can travel upward in the lubricator assembly and cause the polymer body to deform and dissipate a force of impact caused by the plunger. The body can resiliently compress and expand to substantially an original form. Equalization slots on the body can enable fluid carried to the surface by a plunger to flow from the lubricator assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: Production Control Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Bruce M. Victor
  • Publication number: 20100044939
    Abstract: Urethane compression springs are designed to complement steel wire compression springs where such conditions as confined space, corrosion, vibration and magnetism prevent the use of conventional steel compression springs. Urethane spring material is a polyether-elastomer that reacts similarly to an incompressible fluid. As such, urethane springs bulge when compressed, requiring additional counteractive design remedies. The embodiments of this invention eliminate or minimize that bulging condition and counteractive remedies by having indentations in surfaces of the urethane spring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2009
    Publication date: February 25, 2010
    Inventor: Myron Stuart Hurwitz
  • Publication number: 20100025903
    Abstract: A spring element with a basic geometry which is concentric along the spring axis, including at least one elastomer, the basic geometry of which is concentric about the spring axis and including constrictions and/or widenings that are axially symmetrical along the spring axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2008
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Applicant: BASF SE
    Inventor: Frank Thye-Moormann
  • Publication number: 20090313764
    Abstract: The present invention relates to springs made from compositions comprising rubber, foam formulated therewith and resulting bedding products such as foam mattress or toppers as well as other cushioning elements in a bedding or a seating product.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2007
    Publication date: December 24, 2009
    Applicant: Latexco NV
    Inventor: Erik Deporte
  • Patent number: 7624462
    Abstract: By providing an elongated profile which incorporates a plurality of indentations formed therein, a load bearing/cushioning/supporting element is realized. By employing this construction, the element accommodates large strain under force, and shows good resiliency and repeated recovery. The element can be produced from a continuous extrusion process with immediate manipulation to re-shape the extrusion profile, or secondary thermal forming process which follows the extrusion process, or blow molding process, or injection molding process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: Nomaco, Inc.
    Inventors: Bangshu Cao, Eduardo Lauer, Michael W. Allman
  • Patent number: 7575796
    Abstract: A resilient mat system where a mat has overall mat thickness T, and the mat has an upper layer with an upper layer thickness t, and a plurality of supporting resilient substructure columns, each column having a relatively uniform height h, such that T=t+h, wherein the ratio of h:t>3.5 for values of T>about 0.9 inch. Each column has a column wall that surrounds a central void in the column with the void opening at a bottom of the column. The column has lower zone that is a more compressible, relatively collapsible zone, and an upper zone that is a less compressible, relatively uncollapsible zone. There is a fenestrated mat connector with connector fenestrations sized and numbered to receive the bases of a plurality of columns from two mats therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Assignee: Seamless Attenuating Technologies, Inc. (SATECH)
    Inventors: Richard P. Scott, Bryce L. Betteridge
  • Publication number: 20090183314
    Abstract: A dual spring support structure for mattresses or other reflexive support structures employs a foam spring in combination with an innerspring or foam core, to provide a multi-mode and multi-structural support surface with a multiple, constant, or complimentary spring rate and support characteristics. Foam springs have geometric cross-sectional configurations with mechanical spring properties which work in concert with the spring properties of foam. Foam springs are used in one embodiment about the perimeter of a wire form innerspring or about the perimeter of a foam core. The foam springs may have a spring rate that is complimentary to, greater than or less than the spring rate of the innerspring or core. Foam springs of different configurations and spring rates can be combined with different types of cores, or used alone to provide a spring or cushioning structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2009
    Publication date: July 23, 2009
    Inventor: Larry K. DEMOSS
  • Patent number: 7549620
    Abstract: An engine mount insulator is interposed between a chassis frame and an engine, and includes a lower housing including flanges fixed to a lateral side of the chassis frame by means of a bolt, and a reverse-V shaped plate provided between the flanges and extending toward the engine; an upper housing including a body, a predetermined portion of which is fixed to one side of the engine by means of a bolt, and wings having a reverse-V shape and extending downward from both sides of the body; a rubber member having a rectangular shape and including a first side assembled with an inner surface of the wings of the upper housing, and a second side assembled with the lower housing; and a side plate assembled with the upper housing by means of a bolt so as to support the rubber member from a lower portion of the rubber member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Kyung Wan Kang
  • Publication number: 20090102106
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a resin coil spring includes integrally molding a spring unit from synthetic resin, the spring unit including a coil unit having plural coil members and ring-like supports respectively arranged on two sides of the coil unit and connected to an end of each of the plural coil members, and stacking the molded spring units one on another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2008
    Publication date: April 23, 2009
    Applicant: OLYMPUS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Naoki OHASHI, Kiyoaki KOBAYASHI
  • Patent number: 7490819
    Abstract: A one-piece elastomeric spring having four spaced end portions all joined to and extending from a common body portion. Two end portions are commonly disposed to each side of an axis of the spring such that each end portion can independently deflect when a force is applied thereto. The one-piece spring is formed from a preform formed from an elastomer which is normally free of spring-like characteristics. The elastomer from which the preform is created has a molecular structure along with a ratio of plastic strain to elastic strain greater than 1.5 to 1. The molecular structure of the preform is oriented in at least one direction so as to allow a predetermined spring rate to be imparted to the preform whereby transmuting the preform into an elastomeric spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: Miner Elastomer Products Corporation
    Inventor: Michael P. Molitor
  • Publication number: 20090032243
    Abstract: A shock absorber for use with a lubricator assembly comprises a body made substantially of a polymer material. An end of the body is supportable by a cup. Upon plunger strike, the cup can travel upward in the lubricator assembly and cause the polymer body to deform and dissipate a force of impact caused by the plunger. The body can resiliently compress and expand to substantially an original form. Equalization slots on the body can enable fluid carried to the surface by a plunger to flow from the lubricator assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2007
    Publication date: February 5, 2009
    Inventor: Bruce M. Victor
  • Publication number: 20090020932
    Abstract: An elastomeric load bearing surface with different load support characteristics in different directions. In one embodiment, the surface includes an elastomeric membrane that is oriented in only a single direction, for example, by compression or stretching. In another embodiment, the surface includes mechanical structures, such as connectors, variations in thickness and apertures, that vary the load support characteristics in different directions. In another aspect, the present invention provides a multilayer load bearing surface in which the layers cooperate to provide a controlled force/deflection profile that is variable in different regions of the surface. In one embodiment, the upper layer includes a plurality of loosely connected nodes and a lower layer having a plurality of resilient elements that separately support each node.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2008
    Publication date: January 22, 2009
    Applicant: ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC.
    Inventors: Timothy P. Coffield, Daniel S. Sommerfeld, Joseph D. Ward
  • Patent number: 7476433
    Abstract: The invention relates to a docking buffer for attaching to ramps, comprising an elastic damping element (3) that is situated between two U-shaped sections (1; 2) consisting of a hard, shock-proof material. The limbs (4; 5) and (6; 7) of said sections are adjacent to one another and can be displaced in relation to one another, the limbs (4; 5) of one U-shaped section (2) converging at an angle ? that deviates from 90° in relation to a base surface (9) and the limbs (6; 7) of the other U-shaped section (1) diverging at an angle ? that deviates from 90° in relation to a base plate (8). The opening widths between the ends of the limbs (4; 5) and (6; 7) and the sizes of the angles ?; ? are selected in such a way that the limbs (4; 5) embrace the limbs (6; 7). The advantage of the invention is that it provides a docking buffer with a simple construction that is thus cost-effective to produce, said buffer affording reliable protection even during an off-center collision.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2009
    Assignee: Deutsche Post AG
    Inventors: Rainer Ott, Hans Schmatz
  • Patent number: 7458172
    Abstract: An impact attenuating device includes both concave and convex side walls, e.g., in an interleaved arrangement, optionally at least partially surrounded by a restraining element that may help return the impact attenuating device back to its original orientation after attenuating an impact. Such impact attenuating devices may be included in pieces of footwear and/or other foot-receiving devices. Additionally, such impact attenuating devices or portions thereof may be freely selected and/or interchanged in a piece of footwear or other foot-receiving device, e.g., based on one or more characteristics of an intended user and/or an intended use, so as to allow users to obtain footwear (or other devices) customized and targeted for use under a predetermined set of conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Assignee: NIKE, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael A. Aveni
  • Publication number: 20080283720
    Abstract: A plate for a compressible elastomeric spring is formed from a predetermined material and has each of a first substantially flat surface, an opposed second substantially flat surface, a predetermined thickness and a predetermined shape. Prongs are provided on at least one surface of the plate and extend outwardly at a predetermined angle relative thereto for mechanically interlocking the plate with an axial end an abutting elastomeric pad. Prongs may have trapezoidal shape. An axial aperture may be also provided with the prongs located on or in close proximity to a peripheral edge of the apertures. Prongs may be also provided on the opposed surface of the plate for mechanically interlocking the plate with an axial end of another abutting elastomeric pad. Annular ring-like projections are also provided for mechanically interlocking the plate to at least one elastomeric pad.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventors: Ronald J. Sprainis, Michael E. Ring, Bradley Anderson, Jonathon Marlow
  • Patent number: 7441637
    Abstract: In a hydraulic shock absorber (1), a piston rod (5) protrudes from a cylinder (3) filled with hydraulic fluid. A rebound cushion (8) is fitted to an outer circumferential surface of the piston rod (5) in the cylinder (3). A stopper (6) fixed to the cylinder (3) contacts the rebound cushion (8) at an protrusion limiting position of the piston rod (5) to prevent further protrusion of the piston rod (5). An oil pool (8a, 9, 10, 15) formed in a sliding surface (8a, 14) of the rebound cushion (8) supplies oil to the sliding surface that slides on any of the inner circumferential surface of the cylinder (3) and the outer circumferential surface of the piston rod (5) to ensure smooth relative rotation of the piston rod (5) at the protrusion limiting position and the cylinder (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Assignee: Kayaba Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masaru Fukushima, Masahiro Miwa
  • Patent number: 7416175
    Abstract: A spring seat assembly for a suspension system of a vehicle utilizing a coil spring. The spring seat assembly includes a first spring seat retainer having a central axis. The first spring seat retainer includes a flange and a pocket portion extending from the flange toward a distal end. The flange includes a first side and a second side extending radially from the central axis in a spaced and parallel relationship. The flange includes a plurality of ribs that extend radially relative to the central axis. The ribs project axially from the first side and the second side of the flange and are spaced angularly from one another. The ribs on the first side are angularly offset from the ribs on the second side for dampening vibration and absorbing noise upon a compression of the coil spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2008
    Assignee: BASF Corporation
    Inventor: Sadiq Al-Dahhan
  • Patent number: 7398964
    Abstract: An isolator mount capable of dissipating shocks and vibrations is presented. The present invention includes a mount which is load bearing and capable of withstanding repeated deflections and strains, at least two damping layers composed of an energy damping viscoelastic polymer, and at least two constraining layers composed of an energy damping alloy. Each layer of energy damping viscoelastic polymer is separately disposed and bonded to the exterior of the mount. One constraining layer is bonded to and substantially covers each damping layer. Damping and constraining layers minimize the stiffness change to the mount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Inventors: Gareth J. Knowles, Bruce Bower
  • Patent number: 7384029
    Abstract: In a vibration preventing damper forming method and a vibration preventing damper integrally formed with a mechanical chassis according to the present invention, an opening side end portion 9e of a damper housing 9 and a vibration preventing damper forming portion of a mechanical chassis 6 are made of a resin. The damper housing 9 is mounted on the vibration preventing damper forming portion by the fixture of the resin portions. Thus, a vibration preventing damper 8 is integrally formed with the mechanical chassis 6. For this reason, in supporting in a vibration proof manner and in a floating matter the mechanical chassis 6 within an interior of a casing 10 by means of the vibration preventing damper 8, it is possible to improve the working efficiency in mounting the mechanical chassis 6 to the casing 10 and to cope with the requirement of miniaturization of a mounting space between the interior of the casing 10 and the mechanical chassis 6.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2008
    Assignee: Polymatech Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Masayuki Itakura
  • Patent number: 7357379
    Abstract: A vibration isolating bushing including: an elastic body disposed in between and elastically connecting an inner sleeve and an outer sleeve surrounding the inner sleeve. The elastic body has two pairs of axial bores diametrically opposed to each other and axially extends therethrough between the inner and outer sleeves to be independent of each other, and is circumferentially divided in terms of stress transmission by the two pairs of axial bores into two pairs of segments diametrically opposed to each other. Two diametric lines, extending in directions in which the two pairs of axial bores are respectively opposed to each other, intersect obliquely so that the two pairs of segments are made different from each other in their circumferential lengths for differentiating spring characteristics of the bushing in two diametric directions in which said two pairs of segments are opposed to each other, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2008
    Assignee: Tokai Rubber Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Seiya Asano, Kazuhiko Kato