Abstract: A modular non-linear spring system capable of simulating traditional brake pedal feel when incorporated into a hydraulic and/or electro-hydraulic vehicle braking system. The system can include a first spacer having a top surface and a bottom surface and an optional second spacer having a top surface and a bottom surface. In one arrangement, a first mechanical spring is in abutting engagement with the top surface of said first spacer, a second mechanical spring is in abutting engagement with the bottom surface of said first spacer and the top surface of said second spacer, and an optional third mechanical spring is in abutting engagement with the bottom surface of said second spacer. The springs are arranged to be progressively compressed using a brake pedal of the braking system.

Abstract: A modular non-linear spring system capable of simulating traditional brake pedal feel when incorporated into a hydraulic and/or electro-hydraulic vehicle braking system. The system can include a first spacer having a top surface and a bottom surface and an optional second spacer having a top surface and a bottom surface. In one arrangement, a first mechanical spring is in abutting engagement with the top surface of said first spacer, a second mechanical spring is in abutting engagement with the bottom surface of said first spacer and the top surface of said second spacer, and an optional third mechanical spring is in abutting engagement with the bottom surface of said second spacer. The springs are arranged to be progressively compressed using a brake pedal of the braking system.

Abstract: A modular non-linear spring system capable of simulating traditional brake pedal feel when incorporated into a hydraulic and/or electro-hydraulic vehicle braking system. The system can include a first spacer having a top surface and a bottom surface and an optional second spacer having a top surface and a bottom surface. In one arrangement, a first mechanical spring is in abutting engagement with the top surface of said first spacer, a second mechanical spring is in abutting engagement with the bottom surface of said first spacer and the top surface of said second spacer, and an optional third mechanical spring is in abutting engagement with the bottom surface of said second spacer. The springs are arranged to be progressively compressed using a brake pedal of the braking system.

Abstract: A spring system that translates linear motion into rotary motion near or on the hinge line of a hinge assembly.

Abstract: A strut assembly is provided including a holding and releasing mechanism adapted to be attached to a cylinder-type closer. The mechanism comprises the strut assembly including a strut cylinder, a strut rod, a pivot block, and a locking tube. The strut assembly further comprises a stop tube including a clip at a first end and a collar at a second end. The stop tube further includes a rigid angled ramp connecting the clip and the collar. The clip moves from a first position to a second position while pivoting the locking tube at a first end in order to engage the locking tube at another end with the strut cylinder thereby holding the strut assembly in an extended position.

Abstract: A strut assembly is provided including a holding and releasing mechanism adapted to be attached to a cylinder-type closer. The mechanism comprises the strut assembly including a strut cylinder, a strut rod, a pivot block, and a locking tube. The strut assembly further comprises a stop tube including a clip at a first end and a collar at a second end. The stop tube further includes a rigid angled ramp connecting the clip and the collar. The clip moves from a first position to a second position while pivoting the locking tube at a first end in order to engage the locking tube at another end with the strut cylinder thereby holding the strut assembly in an extended position.

Abstract: A lift spring assembly has a compression spring rod with a housing having a longitudinal axis and axially opposite ends, and having a rod member coaxial with the axis and having an inner end in the housing and an outer end axially outwardly of one of the opposite ends. A guide member is provided on the inner end of the rod member for supporting the rod member during movement of the rod member. A first stage spring assembly extends between one of the opposite ends of the housing and the guide member. A second stage spring assembly extends between the other of the opposite ends of the housing and the guide member. A mounting member extending from one of the opposite ends of the housing for mounting the spring rod assembly to a hood assembly. A locking member is pivotally connected to the mounting member and pivots into locking engagement with one of the ends of the housing.

Abstract: A force control strut comprising an elongated housing having a straight guide tube with an inner cylindrical surface, a rod member having an inner end reciprocally movable along the guide tube and an outer end extending outwardly from the housing, a guide member secured into the first end of the housing to form a bushing allowing reciprocation of the rod member between a retracted position and an extended position and a bottom plug fixed to the second end of the housing. A cylindrical guide piston is secured to the inner end of the rod and is slidable along the inner cylindrical surface of the housing. A coil spring is located between the piston and one end of the housing to bias the rod in a given direction in the housing. There is a damper mechanism combined with the movable rod and including a plunger reciprocally mounted in an elongated force controlling passageway inside the rod.

Abstract: A positive lock mechanism having a compression spring rod with a housing, a rod member having an inner end in said housing and an outer end axially outwardly of a housing end. One or more compression springs extend between a guide member and an end of the housing. A positive locking mechanism is provided to prevent movement of the rod member in a longitudinal direction. The lock mechanism is controlled by a wire and cable assembly operated by a lever.

Abstract: A spring system for relatively displacing elements attached to end mounts of the rod assembly comprises a housing having a rod member movable between extended and retracted positions relative thereto, and a first spring in the housing surrounded by a second spring for biasing the rod member to one of an extended or retracted position relative to the housing. The two springs exert a non-linear load versus deflection curve as the rod member moves between an extended position and a retracted position.

Abstract: A strut assembly having first and second mounting members extending from opposite ends of the housing for mounting the strut assembly to a hood assembly. A locking member is connected to the housing and slides into locking engagement with the rod member. Restraining members are secured to the mounting members to prevent unwanted travel of the hood assembly beyond a fully opened position.

Abstract: A spring system for relatively displacing elements attached to end mounts of the spring system. The spring system includes a housing having an axis, an internal chamber, and axially opposite bottom and top ends, a spring rod coaxial with the axis and positioned within the internal chamber and having an inner end in the housing and an outer end axially outwardly of the top end. A guide member is provided on the inner end of the rod member to support the rod member for reciprocation axially of the housing between retracted and extended positions relative thereto. A locking arrangement is provided to engage the spring rod and inhibit axial movement of the spring rod.

Abstract: A spring system for relatively displacing elements attached to end mounts of the rod assembly comprises a housing having a rod member movable between extended and retracted positions relative thereto, and a first spring in the housing surrounded by a second spring for biasing the rod member to one of an extended or retracted position relative to the housing. The two springs exert a non-linear load versus deflection curve as the rod member moves between an extended position and a retracted position.

Abstract: A self-centering mechanical strut has first and second housing members. The second housing member telescopically receives the first housing member. Spring assemblies are mounted within each of the housing members. The spring assembly in the first tube is compressed when the first housing is pushed into the second housing. The spring assembly in the second tube is compressed when the first housing is pulled out of the second housing. Each housing is spring-biased to return to its respective neutral position.