Rubber Patents (Class 267/140)
  • Patent number: 8733744
    Abstract: A multipiece cushioning assembly adapted to be arranged in combination with a shock absorbing apparatus. The multipiece cushioning assembly is disposed between a pair of radial shoulders on first and second members telescoping members of the shock absorbing apparatus arranged in operable combination relative to each other. The radial shoulders on the first and second members limit travel of the shock absorbing apparatus, and with the multipiece cushioning assembly including a plurality of elastomeric bumpers arranged in a generally circular array for absorbing over-travel of the first and second members relative to each other and for readily permitting replacement of the multipiece cushioning assembly while maintaining the first and second members in operable combination relative to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Miner Elastomer Products Corporation
    Inventors: Ronald W. Kerr, Helen Y. Chen, Richard J. Beranek
  • Patent number: 8733745
    Abstract: A vehicle suspension system including a shock upper mount assembly mounted to vehicle structure, a jounce bumper being made of an elastomeric material and including a vertically extending rod bore around a rod of a shock absorber, and a jounce rate cup. The jounce rate cup is made of an elastomeric material and includes a horizontally extending support flange having a lower surface mounted on the jounce bumper, a horizontally extending dust boot attachment flange spaced from the support flange and having an upper surface located below and adjacent to the shock upper mount assembly, and a vertical flange extending between the support flange and the dust boot attachment flange to define a gap between the support flange and the dust boot attachment flange, with the jounce rate cup including a vertically extending rod bore mounted around the rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Ravindra P Patil, Robert T. Jane, Michael A. Ray, Robert L. Geisler, Joseph A. Schudt
  • Patent number: 8720937
    Abstract: A load cushion for a suspension system including a first cushion portion, a second cushion portion, a base plate having a flat top side and a bottom side, and a rate plate having a flat top side and a flat bottom side, wherein the top side of the base plate is parallel to the top side of the rate plate, wherein the first cushion portion extends away from the top side of the rate plate and has at least one vertical cross section having two tapering edges that extend towards each other as they extend upwardly from the top side of the rate plate until they end at an exposed upper surface, and wherein the second cushion portion extends between the top side of the base plate and the bottom side of the rate plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Hendrickson USA, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Shawn D. Noble, Ashley T. Dudding
  • Patent number: 8677563
    Abstract: A cushion member includes a resilient material body having multiple different diameters defining a body bell-shape. The body includes a solid first portion having a first diameter. An aperture extends through the first portion transverse to a body longitudinal axis. A hollow second portion defines a hollow chamber in communication with the aperture. The second portion has a second diameter larger than the first portion first diameter. A third portion has a third diameter smaller than the second diameter. An end flange is connected to the third portion. The differing first, second, and third diameters induce the body to elastically compress when a force is applied to the end flange and to return to an uncompressed state after force dissipation. A flow rate of air forced out of the hollow chamber during second and third portion compression and out the aperture is restricted by an aperture diameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Newfrey LLC
    Inventors: Tien T. Diep, Terri L. Wernert
  • Patent number: 8657271
    Abstract: The invention provides vehicle suspension systems, and more particularly jounce bumpers made of elastomeric thermoplastic material, having improved design to maximize energy absorption.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: E I du Pont de Nemours and Company
    Inventors: Peter Laszlo Szekely, Damien Van Der Zyppe
  • Patent number: 8651464
    Abstract: A resilient returning device for a power operated piston tool comprises a one piece elastic bellow-shaped body including a plurality of repeating pleats, each of which has two pleat halves that cooperatively define a first elbow therebetween. Each of the pleat halves of each of the pleats cooperates with an adjacent one of the pleat halves of an adjacent one of the pleats to define a second elbow therebetween. Each of the first and second elbows has a bulging side. The bellow-shaped body is formed with a plurality of loop-shaped grooves that are indented from the bulging sides of the first elbows of the pleats or the bulging sides of the second elbows of the pleats, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Inventor: Chung-Yi Lee
  • Patent number: 8622374
    Abstract: In a buffer for absorbing impacts, which comprises an elastic buffer element made of a material having a first e-module, and a force take-up axis, the buffer element being compressible at least in the direction of said force take-up axis, it is provided that at least one additional element having a second e-module is enclosed in said buffer element, the second e-module being larger than the first e-module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: Acla-Werke GmbH
    Inventor: Gerhard Kieffer
  • Patent number: 8590667
    Abstract: A crankcase of an internal combustion engine includes protruding portions formed on an outer surface of the crankcase which are constituted of a pair of left and right wall members, and a vibration isolating rubber is fitted between the wall members. The crankcase configured in this manner prevents the generation of sounds from a protruding portion of the crankcase and is light-weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Junya Watanabe, Atsushi Ogasawara, Masataka Tanaka, Satoru Nojima
  • Patent number: 8584266
    Abstract: A toilet seat lifting device maintains a toilet seat in a partially elevated position when at rest. The device includes a lifting spring attached to a toilet rim. The lifting spring includes a compressible air bellow which provides resistance for maintaining a front end of the toilet at a prescribed angle when in the resting state. The spring is compressible such that a user may depress the toilet seat to a flat position when seated. The seat is not attached to the spring such that the seat can be lifted to an upright position in a traditional manner. The spring is attached to the toilet rim underneath the toilet seat, adjacent to a hinge by an adhesive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Inventor: Melvin R. Beavers
  • Patent number: 8567850
    Abstract: In a side deck of a construction machine, includes a cross allowing member which has a shape avoiding a reinforcement member so as to allow the reinforcement member to extend across a mount holding member longitudinally of the side deck. A front end of the reinforcement member is directly joined to the front beam while the reinforcement member extends longitudinally across the cross allowing member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Kobelco Construction Machinery Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yosuke Honda, Koichi Nishimura
  • Publication number: 20130270754
    Abstract: A safety protection apparatus of elastic-plastic steel structure is disclosed. The apparatus includes an outer protecting layer (4) and buffering assemblies arranged in a layered manner along the vertical direction and fixed within the outer protecting layer (4). Each buffering assembly includes stiffening beams (3) distributed in a layered manner along the horizontal direction and buffer members (2) uniformly bridging between adjacent stiffening beams (3), and each of said buffer members (2) comprises a pair of arc-shaped damping spokes (1). Shock absorbing rubber elements (5) are provided between vertically adjacent stiffening beams (3). The apparatus has high safety, good durability, and it is convenient to be installed and maintained.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2010
    Publication date: October 17, 2013
    Inventors: Ming Huo, Shilin Liu, Shengjin Ge, Zeyou Peng, Wei Wang, Changping Pan, Zhihua Xiong, Ruixin Sun, Jin Meng, Shan Gao
  • Publication number: 20130224427
    Abstract: A bath spout cover is provided that includes a body structure having an upper portion, two opposing side portions, and a front portion; a receiving area defined between the upper portion, the two opposing side portions, and the front portion; a strap spanning the two opposing side portions, said strap being adjustable on at least one of the side portions of the body structure; and at least one aperture defined by one of the side portions of the body structure, said aperture for receiving an end of the strap. Further provided are methods for securing a bath spout cover to a bath spout.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2013
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Applicant: SKIP HOP, INC
    Inventor: SKIP HOP, INC
  • Patent number: 8465009
    Abstract: A compressible resilient elastomeric pad includes a body defining a central axis, the body formed from a predetermined material and having each of a peripheral side surface, a first axial end and a second axial end, each of the first and second axial ends having a flat surface thereof disposed normal to such central axis. A first raised projection is centrally formed on the flat surface of the first axial end and a second raised projection is centrally formed on the flat surface of the second axial end. A first groove is formed in the flat surface of the first axial end in abutting relationship with a peripheral side surface of the first projection and a second groove is formed in the flat surface of the second axial end in abutting relationship with a peripheral side surface of the second projection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: WABTEC Holding Corp.
    Inventors: Ronald J. Sprainis, Michael E. Ring, Bradley Anderson, Jonathon Marlow
  • Publication number: 20130134640
    Abstract: A cushioning device, as well as to a system and a method of using such device, is provided. The device protects children from injuries when they come into unintended contact the corners and edges of tables or other furniture items. The cushioning device uses no adhesive, can be easily and removably applied to the table or other furniture item and is aesthetically pleasing to the user. The device is comprised of a nearly transparent elastomeric material and can be configured in a band-like fashion or in a linear fashion where the ends are secured, thermally, chemically or mechanically, to simulate a band-like structure. The cushioning device further comprises a system whereby the cushioning device uses the connection means to create the band-like structure mentioned above. It also comprises a method for applying the cushioning device to a table or other furniture item. When in place, the device is virtually invisible.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Inventor: Gina Thaxton
  • Patent number: 8430381
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a main body and a protection mechanism disposed on the main body. The protection mechanism includes a connecting member inserted in the main body and including a post; and a damping member attached on the connecting member away from the main body. The damping member bears an initial impact, before the main body, when the apparatus collides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chao-Jen Chen
  • Publication number: 20130071185
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a concrete structure used for bank protection and scour prevention of river bank and coast. Its construct is a hollow circular truncated cone and concrete flat plates are plugged on the hollow circular truncated cone. By tearing, dispersing and stirring up water flow, the energy of local water flow is dissipated, and the scouring strength of the water flow is weakened, achieving the aim of scour prevention and bank protection. It has good mechanical property, not easy to be destroyed, has good stability in water and big overhead rate, and can save materials. Compared to previous various structures for scour prevention, the present invention has better effects of energy dissipation and scour prevention. It not only can be used in bank protection and scour prevention, but also can be used for supplementary energy dissipation when plugging and closure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2011
    Publication date: March 21, 2013
    Inventors: Zhilin Wei, Jiayi Wang, Wei Xu, Shasha Gan, Zhenghu Tang, Junxing Wang, Dahong Chen, Caihua Zhan, Jinlong Wang, Lianjun Zhao, Guoming Gao, Zhenhua Cui, Songwei Chen, Ruyin Zhang, Xinnai Jing, Xin Li, Tao Ma, Kai Zhang
  • Patent number: 8382078
    Abstract: To provide a bump stopper (1) having constricted parts (2A, 2B) in the circumferential surface and exhibiting buffering action by deforming resiliently when an annular distal end portion (3) collides against a partner member (61) in a state that a bump stopper central axis (0) is inclined to a collision surface (62), without sliding on the collision surface (62), thereby generation of noise being suppressed, the distal end portion (3) has a outside diameter and an inside diameter which expand toward the end, a diameter d1 at a collision start point (4) at the most distal end of the inner diameter surface is set substantially equal to or larger than the outside diameter d2 of the constricted part (2A) located just above it, and the distal end portion (3) deforms to tilt further to the outer diameter side through action of moment at the time of collision.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: NOK Corporation
    Inventors: Naoto Okada, Takuya Kishida
  • Patent number: 8317169
    Abstract: A generally mushroom-shaped vibration isolator having a broad cap and a smaller diameter stem that is used for safety enhancement between a heavy furnace, air conditioning unit, storage hot water heater tank, or other fluid-producing unit, and a fluid-collecting pan positioned under it. Vibration isolator stems are placed within indentations in raised areas of the pan and comprise highly impact-resistant materials, temperature-resistant materials, provide enhanced air movement and heat deflection around a furnace/unit/tank, reduce after-installation furnace/unit/tank movement, and meet furnace non-combustible clearance requirements. The cap has a broad underside surface, top surface radially-extending ribs and cutouts, and may have a slightly convex top, while the stem has at least one outwardly-depending wedge-shaped projection that is sufficiently flared-out to flip over as it is inserted into an indentation for a tight fit within several sizes of indentation, as well as removal resistance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Inventor: Christopher Ralph Cantolino
  • Patent number: 8272374
    Abstract: A noise reducing bowstring suppression device consisting of an individual length of pliable material supported between dual support members mounted on a bow, a bowstring on the bow contacting the pliable material when the bow is shot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Inventor: Gary L Cooper
  • Patent number: 8152195
    Abstract: An elastomeric spring suspension is described for supporting a longitudinally extending vehicle frame rail above first and second axles forming a tandem axle configuration. The suspension includes a frame hanger assembly mounted to the vehicle frame rail. The frame hanger assembly has two full spring modules, each of which includes two shear springs, a progressive spring rate load cushion having a pyramidal shape with a flattened top surface and a spring mount for mounting the springs. A saddle assembly is connected to the spring mount, and an equalizing beam is connected to the saddle assembly and further connected to the axles. The spring rate for the suspension increases almost linearly as a function of sprung load, resembling a pneumatic suspension. Accordingly, the suspension exhibits excellent ride quality, without sacrificing roll stability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Hendrickson USA, LLC
    Inventors: Shawn D. Noble, Christopher W. Forrest
  • Patent number: 8070143
    Abstract: A resilient mount including a first mounting member and a second mounting member is provided. The mount includes a first plurality of stiffening elements located between the first and second mounting members. At least a first stiffening element of the first plurality of stiffening elements is non-parallel to a second stiffening element of the first plurality of stiffening elements. Each of the first plurality of stiffening elements has a material thickness and an out-of-plane dimension that is greater than the material thickness. Each stiffening element of the first plurality of stiffening elements is substantially rigid so as to substantially limit the deformation of the stiffening element under load. The mount may also include a resilient material located between and coupled to adjacent stiffening elements of the first plurality of stiffening elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventor: Ross Paul Wietharn
  • Publication number: 20110254211
    Abstract: A fender assembly is disclosed. The fender assembly comprises an elongate support adapted to be attached to a surface of a support structure, the elongate support defining surfaces both inwardly and outwardly directed relative to the support surface, a resilient elongate fender mounted on the outer surface of the support and guided there along for vertical sliding movement relative thereto, and the inner surfaces defining a housing for a spring loaded fender restraining means co-acting with and adapted to resist downwardly directed sliding movement of the resilient elongate fender relative to the elongate support. An associated method for fabricating a fender assembly is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2009
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Inventor: Steven John Cowey
  • Patent number: 8016275
    Abstract: A dual-rate resilient isolator having a plurality of raised, generally conical bumps formed on an engagement surface thereof. The bumps in combination with a main body of the resilient isolator provide a dual-rate for isolating CRFM noise vibration and or other vibrations (via the relatively softer resiliency of the bumps) and isolating road vibration and shock (via the relatively harder resiliency of the main body) even though the bumps and the main body are composed of the same resilient material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Kent Ting, Craig W. Lewitzke, Patrick E. Fix, III, Dwayne R. Taylor
  • Patent number: 7837182
    Abstract: A dust boot retention system includes a jounce bumper having an end portion with an outer diameter and an annular recessed groove adjacent to the end portion. A dust boot is attached to the jounce bumper and has an upper flange including a radially inwardly extending portion and an axially extending portion extending from an innermost portion of the radially inwardly extending portion. The axially extending portion has an inner diameter smaller than the outer diameter of the end portion of the jounce bumper. A rate ring secures the dust boot to the jounce bumper. The rate ring includes an inner diameter smaller than the outer diameter of the end portion of the jounce bumper. The rate ring includes an annular recessed channel in a first end thereof for receiving the axially extending portion of the dust boot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Assignee: Vibracoustic North America, L.P.
    Inventors: David A. Mauceri, Robert S. Feldmann
  • 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
  • Patent number: 7584943
    Abstract: A bumper assembly for use at a loading dock comprises a resiliently compressible pad protected by a readily replaceable metal faceplate. The bumper assembly has certain metal components that move relative to each other as the bumper assembly is compressed by a vehicle backing into the dock. Those metal components are spaced apart from each other to avoid metal-to-metal frictional wear. In some cases, the compressible pad has internal cavities that help reduce the extent to which the core bulges under compression.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Assignee: Frommelt Industries of Canada, Inc.
    Inventor: Joe DiBiase
  • Publication number: 20090134558
    Abstract: The invention relates to a loading dock fender unit (12) which is adapted for attachment adjacent a dock leveller (11) of a loading dock (10), the fender unit comprising a mounting plate (13), an elongate track (19) fixed to and projecting from the front face of the mounting plate (13) centrally thereof, a solid rubber or rubber like fender (15) guided for vertical sliding movement along the track (19), and a spring loaded fender restraining mechanism (16) which supports the fender in a normal at rest position and is arranged to resist movement of the fender (15) when displaced downwards from the normal at rest position by an externally applied force. In use, when a vehicle trailer is backed up against the dock with its rear end making contact with the fender (15), any up or down movement of the trailer rear end will cause simultaneous up or down movement of the fender (15).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2009
    Publication date: May 28, 2009
    Inventor: Steven John Cowey
  • Patent number: 7527454
    Abstract: A marine fender for protecting a marine structure and watercraft against damage from collision forces. The marine fender includes an elongate body of resilient material having a basal wall dimensioned and configured for mounting the marine fender on the marine structure, and an outer wall for being engaged by a collision force, the basal wall and the outer wall defining an inner space. A web within the inner space is integral with the basal wall and with the outer wall, and has a generally M-shaped lateral cross-sectional configuration enabling cushioning by the outer wall and establishing an integral reinforcing and energy absorbing construction within the inner space for protecting against damage to the marine structure from collision forces exerted against the outer wall, as well as against damage to the watercraft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Inventor: Donald Brushaber
  • Patent number: 7478801
    Abstract: The invention relates to a loading dock fender unit (12) which is adapted for attachment adjacent a dock leveller (11) of a loading dock (10), the fender unit comprising a mounting plate (13), an elongate track (19) fixed to and projecting from the front face of the mounting plate (13) centrally thereof, a solid rubber or rubber like fender (15) guided for vertical sliding movement along the track (19), and a spring loaded fender restraining mechanism (16) which supports the fender in a normal at rest position and is arranged to resist movement of the fender (15) when displaced downwards from the normal at rest position by an externally applied force. In use, when a vehicle trailer is backed up against the dock with its rear end making contact with the fender (15), any up or down movement of the trailer rear end will cause simultaneous up or down movement of the fender (15).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2009
    Inventor: Steven John Cowey
  • 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: 7475503
    Abstract: A bumper for a backhoe boom includes a plate for mounting to the backhoe, two rods threaded at both ends that are cantilevered away from the mounting plate, and two stacks of rubber plates mounted on the threaded rods on either side of the mounting plate. The two stacks of rubber plates are secured to the threaded rods with nuts. The nuts abut two retaining plates that press against the stacks of rubber plates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2009
    Assignee: CNH America LLC
    Inventors: Philip A. Iannarelli, Marc D. Buhmeyer
  • Patent number: 7454928
    Abstract: A suspension system for use in a laundry washing machine to suspend a tub assembly from a base portion of a cabinet. The suspension system includes a support frame interconnected to an outer tub of the tub assembly and a plurality of isolation damper units for resiliently coupling the support frame to the base portion of the cabinet. The isolation damper units function to allow limited lateral movement of the tub assembly relative to the cabinet while also providing a “return to center” feature. The isolation damper units are further operable to inhibit rotation of the outer tub relative to the cabinet. Finally, the isolation damper units function to absorb the vibration transmitted through the tub assembly to the support frame so as to minimize transmission of such vibration to the cabinet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2008
    Assignee: Freudenberg-NOK General Partnership
    Inventors: Marvin Joseph Houser, Joseph A. Knopp, Gerard Bedard
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20080237949
    Abstract: A vibration damping device having a mass member elastically supported via a spring member on a vibrating member to be damped thereby constituting a secondary vibration system for the vibrating member. The spring member comprises a plurality of rubber elastic bodies being positioned in a parallel arrangement along a vibration input direction, and the mass member is elastically supported at multiple spring support points formed by the plurality of rubber elastic bodies such that a center of gravity of the mass member is positioned between the multiple spring support points and away from a combined elastic center axis of multiple spring support points so as to establish multiple natural frequencies in the vibration input direction, and such that the multiple natural frequencies are tuned to multiple vibration frequencies to be damped in the vibrating member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2008
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Applicant: TOKAI RUBBER INDUSTRIES, LTD.
    Inventor: Koichi Hasegawa
  • 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: 7394009
    Abstract: A resilient washer design having an annulus body and a concentric sleeve extending from the annulus with a plurality of ribs extending from the sleeve. The washer may have an opposing sleeve extending from the opposite side of the annulus with a second plurality of ribs in staggered location to the first set of ribs. This staggered position allows the annulus to flex between the ribs on opposing sides and resist compression of the washer when pressure is applied axially.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2008
    Assignee: Probe Specialists, Inc.
    Inventor: Brian Thomas Judd
  • Patent number: 7384028
    Abstract: A rubber part having a metal fitting in which the metal fitting and the rubber part are integrated through an anti-corrosion chemical film formed on a surface of the metal fitting. The anti-corrosion chemical film is a zirconium-based chemical film that is harmless to human body and environment, and is transformable following the squeeze of the metal fitting. The rubber part having a metal fitting is produced by the steps of: degreasing an outer peripheral surface of the metal fitting, subjecting the surface to shot blasting treatment, degreasing the treated surface, and water washing the treated surface; forming a zirconium-based chemical film on the treated surface; water washing and drying an outer peripheral surface of the zirconium-based chemical film; forming an adhesive layer on the outer peripheral surface of the zirconium-based chemical film; and integrating the rubber part on the outer peripheral surface of the adhesive layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2008
    Assignee: Tokai Rubber Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Takanori Sugiura, Toyohisa Tohyama, Takehiko Taguchi
  • Publication number: 20080106014
    Abstract: A pump pad for the suppression of noise or vibration from a swimming pool motor and filtration pump. The pump pad is made from ultraviolet resistant, elastomeric material, such as Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM). The pump pad is placed on top of an equipment pad on which a swimming pool motor normally rests. The swimming pool pump and motor assembly is then placed on top of the pump pad, so that it is supported by the pump pad and isolated from the equipment pad underneath. The pump pad is resistant to the harsh chemicals used in swimming pool treatment, including chlorine and bromine and is also able to withstand long exposure to ultra-violet (UV) light as well as temperatures as high as the 120 degrees F. and as low as minus 10 degrees F.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2006
    Publication date: May 8, 2008
    Inventor: Joseph J. Gigl
  • Patent number: 7364223
    Abstract: To provide a cab supporting structure capable of supplying a protection function with a simple configuration by using an attenuation mechanism commonly used for a controlled vehicle for protecting the cab or an operator from high impact force acting on the cab while absorbing vibration and shock on the cab in a normal condition when a construction machine falls down. The cab supporting structure is provided with an attenuation mechanism elastically supporting a cab against a frame. A regulation member, only when certain displacement is generated in the cabin the extension direction of the attenuation mechanism, regulating this displacement is provided separately from this attenuation mechanism. The regulation member regulates the displacement of the cab before a stroke end of the attenuation mechanism. Upon arranging a work equipment on the frame, the regulation member is provided at least at the opposite side of the work equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2008
    Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.
    Inventors: Tadashi Mori, Ryo Kondo
  • Patent number: 7354030
    Abstract: An impact-absorbing member includes tabular ribs extending in a direction orthogonal to an impact load input direction, and disposed spaced apart in the impact load input direction and parallel to one another; and a load transmitting member connected with width-wise opposite ends of the respective tabular ribs to extend between the tabular ribs on a diagonal with respect to the impact load input direction, for transmitting to each of the tabular ribs an impact load in a form of tensile load directed in a lateral direction, wherein differing levels are established for at least one of: tensile stiffness in the plurality of tabular ribs per se; and transmission efficiency of the tensile load by the load transmitting member, so that load-deformation characteristics of some of the plurality of tabular ribs differ in the impact load input direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2008
    Assignee: Tokai Rubber Industries
    Inventors: Masaru Murayama, Rentaro Kato
  • Patent number: 7338034
    Abstract: An elastomeric spring including an elongated elastomeric body defining a longitudinal axis for the spring and having first and second longitudinal ends. An outer surface of the elastomeric body extends between the first and second ends and has four generally planar sides, with each planar side of the outer surface being disposed to one side of and generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the spring so as to reduce radial bulging of the spring in all directions when an axial load is applied to the spring. The outer surface of the elastomeric body further includes four angled corner sections extending between the first and second ends of the elastomeric body and disposed a substantially common distance from the longitudinal axis of the spring. One corner section is disposed between any two adjoining sides on the outer surface of the elastomeric body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2008
    Assignee: Miner Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul B. Aspengren, Steve R. White, Erik D. Jensen, Adam J. Merges, Michael L. McGuigan
  • Patent number: 7290322
    Abstract: A stabilizer bar for an automotive vehicle includes a stabilizer bar, and a generally ring shaped first mechanical stop mounted onto and extending about an outer diameter of the stabilizer bar. The first mechanical stop is crimped in place onto the stabilizer bar such that the first mechanical stop is positioned within a groove formed within the outer diameter of the stabilizer bar as the first mechanical stop is crimped onto the stabilizer bar, whereby the first mechanical stop is retained within the groove to prevent movement of the mechanical stop along the stabilizer bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Assignee: Automotive Components Holdings, LLC
    Inventors: Haimian Cai, Xinjian Fan, Mikhal el Arculli
  • Publication number: 20070138717
    Abstract: An impact absorber is provided for absorbing impact forces especially in case of a collision of a motor vehicle. The impact absorber includes an inner tube (1), which can be pushed into an outer tube (2) in a telescopic manner and which is closed with a bottom plate (3) at its free end projecting from the outer tube (2). Starting from the bottom plate (3) in the direction of the longitudinal axis (4) of the impact absorber, a gas space (5) filled with pressurized gas and a first, a fluid-filled liquid space (7), which is separated from the gas space (5) by a wall (6) displaceable in the inner tube (1), are arranged in the interior of the inner tube (1). The liquid space (7) is in connection through a throttle element with a second, fluid-filled liquid space (13), which adjoins the first liquid space (7) in the direction of the longitudinal axis (4) and is closed by a piston (9) fixed in the outer tube (2) towards the free end of the outer tube (2) in a liquid-tight manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2006
    Publication date: June 21, 2007
    Inventor: Guido STEINBACH
  • Patent number: 7213800
    Abstract: A shock mount to support the static weight of a housing while at the same time effectively attenuating shock or vibration imparted to the housing with the shock mount having a shock isolator for supporting the weight of the display and a bezel extending around the display with the bezel comprising a second shock an d vibration isolator that coacts with the first shock set of shock isolators to further attenuate shock and vibration forces to the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2007
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: Robert James Monson, Julia Ann Neuman
  • Patent number: 7178796
    Abstract: The present invention provides a rate stiffening jounce bumper assembly, including a cup member having a large-headed mushroom stud which is inserted into the cup-shaped member and overmolded with an elastomeric bumper material. The head portion of the mushroom stud forms a shelf against which the bumper material is compressed such that the head portion effectively shortens the bumper spring thereby providing a stiffer spring rate to be obtained with a taller jounce bumper assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2007
    Assignee: Freudenberg-NOK General Partnership
    Inventors: Mickey L. Love, Laurie Jean Schleck
  • Patent number: 7175167
    Abstract: An elastomeric suspension spring (14) usable for bearing the load of a motor vehicle, which exhibits both reduced creep and improved endurance in torsion and a suspension joint comprising this spring consists of a cross-linked rubber composition based on (phr: parts by weight per hundred parts of diene elastomer(s)): natural rubber in a quantity equal to or greater than 60 phr, a filler, and a sulfur cross-linking system comprising at least one cross-linking accelerator, and is such that said filler comprises, in a mass fraction greater than 55%: a carbon black, whose grade varies from 600 to 900, said composition comprising in this case a total quantity of filler of from 10 to 60 phr, or an inert white filler, said composition comprising in this case a total quantity of filler of from 10 to 30 phr, the cross-linking system comprising 0.7 to 1.2 phr of sulfur and being such that the mass ratio of sulfur to cross-linking accelerator(s) varies from 0.15 to 2.70.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignee: Michelin Recherche et Technique S.A.
    Inventors: Patrick Pennequin, Yolanda Yague
  • Patent number: 7108253
    Abstract: A mounting apparatus for use within a suspension system having a frame member, a control arm, and an elongated suspension member extending between the frame member and the control arm is disclosed. The mounting apparatus includes a cup, a seal, a resilient element, and a fastener. The cup includes an end that is at least partially closed, a side wall, and an open end. The seal is disposed within the cup and is configured to be coupled to the elongated suspension member. The resilient element is at least partially disposed within the cup and is substantially encapsulated by the cup and the seal. The fastener is configured to couple the cup, the seal, and the resilient element between the elongated suspension member and one of the frame member and the control arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Assignee: Oshkosh Truck Corporation
    Inventors: Roy Venton-Walters, Jesse Knoble
  • Patent number: 7066456
    Abstract: An upper portion of a rod protruding from an upper end of a hydraulic cylinder of a hydraulic shock absorber, which suspends a wheel from a vehicle body, is inserted from below into a mounting hole in an upper wall of a wheel house, and with a lower portion and an upper portion of the mounting hole being held by a lower damper mount bushing and an upper damper mount portion, respectively, a nut is then screwed on the upper portion of the rod to thereby fasten the rod to the upper wall of the wheel house. A temporarily fastening locking portion formed integrally with the lower damper mount bushing and fixed to the rod is brought into engagement with the mounting hole in the wheel house to prevent the hydraulic shock absorber from falling away from the wheel house during installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Yutaka Hodumi
  • Patent number: 6991568
    Abstract: A basketball frame structure includes a backboard, two fixing plates, a base, two first upright rods, two second upright rods, two first links, an adjusting bar, two second links, and a plurality of hollow weights. Thus, the height of the backboard is changed by movement of the adjusting bar, thereby facilitating a user adjusting the height of the backboard. In addition, when the adjusting bar is moved, the positioning bolt is slidable in the slideway of the adjusting bar and detachably locked in either one of the retaining slots of the adjusting bar, so that the height of the backboard is changed in a multi-stage manner so as to fit requirements of different users.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Assignee: Acas Design Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Feng-Yi Tien
  • Patent number: 6959894
    Abstract: An impact resistant structure of a helicopter having an energy absorber positioned under a floor of the helicopter and directly connected to a cabin frame of the helicopter. The energy absorber is arranged in accordance with a distribution of a ground reaction force on a general ground at a time of crash situation. The energy absorber also includes a plurality of independent hollow tubes of fiber reinforced composite material integrally formed by bundling only the hollow tubes. The hollow tubes are arranged so as to reduce a number of intersecting wall surfaces of the hollow tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2005
    Assignee: Kawasaki Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Tohru Hayashi