Shock absorbers

Abstract

The invention relates to a vibration damper for damping vibrations of a motor vehicle component through which a transverse center plane (Q) passes, comprising a holding device (4) which can be fixed to the motor vehicle component and has at least two receiving means (5), each receiving means having an inner side (40) facing the transverse center plane (Q) and an outer side (42) facing away from the transverse center plane (Q), the vibration damper having a vibration damping mass (6) through which a longitudinal axis (A) passes in the center and at least two elastomer springs (8), wherein the elastomer springs (8) connect the vibration damping mass (6) to the receiving means (5) in a vibration-capable manner, characterized in that at least one of the elastomer springs (8) has a connection (12) between the vibration damping mass (6) and the respective receiving means (5) which extends at least predominantly on the outside with respect to the respective receiving means (5).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a vibration damper. Background Art

[0002] Known vibration absorbers for damping vibrations of motor vehicle components generally comprise a mounting device that can be fastened to the motor vehicle component, a damping mass that is mounted so that it can vibrate relative to the mounting device, and a spring device that connects the damping mass to the mounting device so that it can vibrate.

[0003] Shock absorbers of the type mentioned in the introduction are used to damp vibrations of motor vehicle components in order to separate disruptive vibrations from the passenger compartment and thus improve driving comfort. Conventional shock absorbers have a spring arrangement and a damping mass, which is vibratingly coupled to the motor vehicle component to be damped via an elastic mass. If the motor vehicle component connected to the shock absorber begins to vibrate, the damping mass vibrates with a certain delay, wherein the vibrations are damped by the spring arrangement. Such shock absorbers are used, for example, to damp vibrations in the tailgate, vehicle seats or roof region of motor vehicles.

[0004] Such a vibration damper is known, for example, from DE 10 2016 115 782 B4. Here, the vibration-damping mass has a separate pin for each end. The pin is connected to the vibration-damping mass via a fastening at one end and projects deeply into the hollow cylindrical part of the connected elastomer spring at the other end. The pin also passes through a stop in the form of a receiving hole in order to limit the deflection of the vibration-damping mass relative to the retaining device. However, such a vibration damper is expensive to manufacture due to the number of components and the possibly required special mounting tools, requires a precisely predetermined preload and requires a large installation space at least in the longitudinal direction. Summary of the invention

[0005] The object of the present invention is therefore to provide a vibration damper which overcomes the problems of the prior art.

[0006] According to the invention, a vibration damper for damping vibrations of a motor vehicle component passed through by a transverse center plane is therefore proposed, comprising a retaining device that can be fixed to the motor vehicle component and has at least two receiving means, each receiving means having an inner side facing the transverse center plane and an outer side facing away from the transverse center plane, the vibration damper having a vibration damping mass through which a longitudinal axis passes in the center and having at least two elastomeric springs, wherein the elastomeric springs connect the vibration damping mass to the receiving means in a vibration-capable manner, wherein at least one of the elastomeric springs has a connection between the vibration damping mass and the respective receiving means that extends at least predominantly on the outer side with respect to the respective receiving means.

[0007] The connection also preferably extends completely outside with respect to the respective receiving means. The connection extends directly between the damping mass and the respective receiving means without an intermediate pin. The damping mass is thus mounted directly on the holding device. In addition, the connection is now not arranged in the gap between the two holding devices, but at least partially on the outside. In this case, the additional pins required hitherto can thus be dispensed with, so that the damping mass itself plays the role of the deflection limiting or displacement limiting means.

[0008] The invention also differs significantly from known designs in relation to the distribution of the damping effect. The stiffness of the shock absorber is essentially determined by the structural design and distribution of the elastomer springs. Previously, the damping effect or the majority of its spring rate came from the elastomer spring section, which was arranged in the gap between the two retaining devices. The connection of the elastomer spring to the damping mass or the pin, respectively, thus approximately cooperates in the longitudinal direction, which can lead to large universal deflections and large stop forces. However, in the invention, the damping effect or the majority of the spring rate occurs in the connection provided on the outside with respect to the respective receiving device. This also improves the universal properties.

[0009] Since the pin is omitted, the damper can also be shorter in the longitudinal direction. As a result, such a damping mass can also have a very simple geometry. Previously, for example, a plurality of holes were required in the damper in order to fix the pin therein. The damping mass can, for example, have the shape of a cylinder, the diameter of which remains constant along the longitudinal axis and preferably has planar end faces, or its cross section can be designed as a polygon, preferably as a cube with preferably planar end faces.

[0010] Furthermore, the vibration damper according to the invention can be manufactured simply and inexpensively, since the elastomer spring can be manufactured separately from the damping mass and the retaining device. Thus, a modular system can be produced, which can be combined with different damping masses and / or retaining devices. Furthermore, the vibration frequency of the vibration damper can be adjusted by the hardness of the elastomer spring and / or its geometrical design.

[0011] As a result, vibrations from vehicle components are effectively damped, thereby improving driving comfort.

[0012] The elastomer springs can be connected to the damping mass and the respective retaining device in a form-fitting, force-fitting and / or materially connected manner. One of the elastomer springs can be assigned to each receiving device. Each receiving device can be designed to be plate-shaped and / or annular and / or extend parallel to the transverse center plane, wherein the plate-shaped and / or annular receiving device can have the inner side and the outer side.

[0013] According to a conceivable development of the vibration damper, the vibration damping mass can have a cylindrical shape, the diameter of which remains constant along the longitudinal axis and has preferably flat end sides. However, the vibration damping mass can also be designed with a polygonal cross section, preferably with a cubic shape, preferably with flat end sides. The end sides face the longitudinal direction. The vibration damping mass can be designed in one piece or from a single piece.

[0014] According to a conceivable improvement of the vibration damper, the respective connection part can surround the vibration damping mass on the circumferential side. Preferably, at least the vibration damping mass can be covered by the connection part between its end side and the receiving device. The respective connection part can be designed in the shape of a hollow cylinder.

[0015] According to a further development of the vibration damper, each receiving means can be designed as a receiving hole, wherein the damping mass can preferably pass through at least one of the receiving holes, preferably two holes, in the longitudinal direction while forming a radial spacing. The outer side and the inner side can then relate to the receiving hole. Thus, the connection of the respective elastomeric spring can extend at least partially outside the respective receiving hole. The radial spacing can be on the peripheral side. Around the damping mass, a gap can be formed in the receiving hole surrounding the damping mass, for example a circular gap in the case of a damping mass with a circular cross section and a receiving hole with a circular cross section. A displacement limiting means is also formed thereby, which prevents overloading of the elastomeric spring because it limits the deflection of the damping mass relative to the retaining device. That is, the damping mass can itself act as a radial limiting means. In particular, this design results in the damping mass being able to move freely only within a predetermined distance for damping vibrations, without overloading or damaging the elastomeric spring. The receiving hole can be oriented coaxially with the damping mass. Since the damping mass itself now passes through the receiving opening, instead of the pin used hitherto, the circumferential surface of the damping mass is used to provide a large area for deflection limitation, thereby improving the durability compared to smaller pins.

[0016] According to a conceivable development of the vibration damper, the receiving openings can be larger than the vibration damping mass at its largest cross-sectional extent.

[0017] According to a conceivable improvement of the vibration damper, at least one receiving hole can be circular in cross section. Preferably, the damping mass is also circular in cross section in the section passing through the receiving hole. Alternatively, at least one receiving hole can be polygonal in cross section. Preferably, the damping mass is also polygonal in cross section in the section passing through the receiving hole. The respective corners of the damping mass and the receiving hole can be located at a center, which intersects the longitudinal axis. The center can extend parallel to the transverse center plane. The imaginary cross-sectional circle whose center can be located at the longitudinal axis and whose corner of the damping mass is located in the region of the respective receiving hole can be larger than the smallest imaginary cross-sectional circle inserted into the respective receiving hole, wherein the two cross-sectional circles can be concentric. This can achieve prevention of torsion about the longitudinal axis.

[0018] According to a further development of the shock absorber, each elastomeric spring can have an end side for abutting against an end side of the damping mass and a connection portion protruding therefrom towards the transverse center plane for engaging with the respective receiving means. The elastomeric spring thus also reinforces the shock absorber in the longitudinal direction, since its end side abuts against the end side of the damping mass. The end side fixes the damping mass in the longitudinal direction. In addition, the end side can cooperate with an axial stop, such as an axial stop lip, to limit axial deflection.

[0019] According to an improved solution of the shock absorber, each elastomeric spring can have a circumferential side portion, which is arranged around the damping mass in the radial direction and / or is connected thereto. The circumferential side portion can follow the circumferential surface of the damping mass, for example in an annular form and directly abut against the outer circumferential surface of the damping mass or be connected thereto. The circumferential side portion fixes the damping mass in the transverse or radial direction. The damping mass is therefore also fixed on the circumferential side, where such a design using end-side pins has not been possible so far. The connection between the circumferential side portion and the damping mass can be a form-fitting, force-fitting and / or material-joined connection, preferably a press fit. Also because the damping mass is also mounted on the elastomeric spring on the circumferential side, the shock absorber can have a shorter structure in the longitudinal direction. The circumferential side portion can directly adjoin the end side portion. The circumferential side portion can be part of the connection portion. The elastomeric spring can overlap the damping mass like a cover by means of the end side portion and the circumferential side portion.

[0020] According to a conceivable development of the vibration damper, the vibration damping mass can be completely covered at its respective longitudinal end outside the outer side of the respective receptacle on the end side and / or on the circumferential side by an elastomer spring.

[0021] According to a refinement of the vibration damper, the connection can have at least partially an inner diameter that increases toward the outside of the respective receiving means. The portion of the connection with the increased inner diameter can also be referred to as a radial spacing portion, since the respective elastomer spring moves radially away from the damping mass. The corresponding outer diameter of the connection can also be varied, so that a constant wall thickness can be achieved. The portion with the increased inner diameter can extend obliquely or raised relative to the circumference of the damping mass. The inclined course forms a conical portion, for example.

[0022] According to a further development of the vibration damper, the connection can have a coupling means, preferably an annular groove, for coupling to the respective receiving means, wherein the coupling means is preferably arranged radially between the receiving means and the damping mass. The part of the elastomer spring on the inner circumference of the annular groove forms an elastic radial stop for the damping mass. The coupling means can be a surrounding groove or a surrounding flange, wherein the respective receiving means can accommodate the respective other coupling element.

[0023] According to a further development of the vibration damper, each elastomer spring can have a first flange against which the respective receiving means can abut, wherein the first flange can preferably have a side wall with a diameter increasing in the direction of the transverse center plane, and the respective receiving means can have a corresponding contour in the bearing area against the side wall. The first flange can be an annular flange. The first flange can extend on the outer circumference. The side wall designed in this way can deform the elastomer spring during axial adjustment of the damping mass in such a way that the first flange is bent radially inwards, where it forms a radial stop and reduces the radial deflection distance.

[0024] According to an improved solution of the shock absorber, the first flange can have a flange portion on the outer peripheral side, which reduces the radial extension of the first flange relative to the adjacent section on the circumferential side of the first flange. The flange portion reduces the radial structural height of the first flange. As a result, the elastomer spring can be displaced near the support plate, thereby requiring less structural space. Therefore, a radially more compact configuration can be achieved. The flange portion can be flat.

[0025] According to a further development of the shock absorber, each elastomeric spring can have a second flange, against which the respective receiving means can abut, wherein the second flange can have a radially extending side wall, against which the receiving means is supported in the longitudinal direction. The second flange can be an annular flange. The second flange can extend on the outer circumference. The side wall designed in this way can serve as an axial stop during axial adjustment of the damping mass. The side wall can extend parallel to the transverse center plane.

[0026] According to a conceivable development of the vibration damper, the circumferential groove can be formed by the first flange and / or the second flange and / or can be delimited in the longitudinal direction.

[0027] According to an improved solution of the vibration damper, the retaining device can be

[0028] - does not include structure for interconnecting the containing structures, or

[0029] - a support plate which can connect the receiving means to one another, wherein the support plate is either designed integrally with the receiving means or is designed separately and can be connected thereto, preferably by means of at least one form fit and / or press fit, or

[0030] At least one rope is provided, which can tighten the receiving devices toward each other.

[0031] In a first alternative, the two receptacles are each designed separately and are not (directly) connected to one another by a structure, apart from an indirect connection, for example via a damping mass, which is carried by both. This is advantageous particularly during pre-assembly, since the receptacles can be placed on the damping mass in the longitudinal direction with an elastomeric spring in between. Alternatively, the receptacles can be parts or sections of a simple L-shaped element which can also be manufactured inexpensively, the sections of which can be referred to here as base and leg.

[0032] In a second alternative, a support plate can be provided that is integral or separate from the receiving device. In an integral design, the two receiving devices and the support plate can be designed as an integral or one-piece. In the case of a separate design, there are three components that can be appropriately connected to each other, for example by means of threaded connections or clamping. With the help of the support plate, a specified pressure acting on the elastomer spring can be maintained, to be precise already during pre-installation. The support plate can already assemble the components of the shock absorber together in the pre-installed state, especially during subsequent transportation for final installation on the motor vehicle component. Pre-installation can also be simply conceived here. Just as in the first alternative, the receiving device can be placed on the damping mass in the longitudinal direction with the elastomer spring connected in the middle in the case of a separate design, and then connected with the help of the support plate. This allows an axial limiting mechanism or an axial stop lip to be placed close to the damping mass, because there is no need for a large elongation of the elastomer spring during pre-installation or installation.

[0033] In the third alternative, a rope can be provided, wherein the rope should also be understood to mean a metal wire. The rope can be a rope without an elastic part or with a small elastic part. The rope can be an annular rope and tightens the two receiving mechanisms to each other. This is particularly advantageous for the pre-installed state, transportation and rapid installation. The rope can be suspended at one receiving mechanism and then guided to another receiving mechanism. From there, the rope is led back to another receiving mechanism in a cross-shaped manner and is suspended there. The rope produces pretensioning together with the elastomer spring. The rope itself is not a protective mechanism that prevents the vibration-damping mass from twisting around the longitudinal axis. However, this is only secondary for the vibration-damping mass with its own anti-twist mechanism, because the cross-section of the vibration-damping mass with the corresponding receiving mechanism is polygonal in shape and can itself form an anti-twist mechanism.

[0034] According to a conceivable improvement of the shock absorber, the individual support plate can have at least one clamping lug, which extends in the longitudinal direction or in the transverse direction. The clamping lug can be clamped together with the receiving device or the leg arranged thereon, preferably with the clamping bridge. Preferably, the individual support plate has two clamping lugs extending in the transverse direction with respect to the longitudinal axis, wherein each of the clamping lugs is clamped together with a receiving device or a leg arranged thereon. All clamping lugs preferably point in the same direction. This allows for a simple and fast pre-installation of the shock absorber. The clamping lug can clamp a leg or bring about pre-tensioning there during pre-installation or installation, in particular when the leg is tilted by an angle in the state before pre-installation.

[0035] According to a conceivable improvement of the shock absorber, the individual support plate can have at least one locking projection, which extends in the longitudinal or transverse direction. The locking projection can be locked together with the locking recess of the receiving mechanism or the leg placed thereon. Preferably, the individual support plate has two locking projections extending in the transverse direction with respect to the longitudinal axis, wherein each of the locking projections is locked together with the receiving mechanism or the leg placed thereon. This allows for a simple and fast pre-installation of the shock absorber. The locking projection can be locked together with the respective locking recess. It is also conceivable that the individual support plate has a locking recess and that the receiving mechanism or the leg placed thereon has a corresponding locking projection. The locking projection can be used as an axial limiting mechanism to prevent the axial movement of the respective receiving mechanism or the leg placed thereon.

[0036] According to an improved solution of the vibration absorber, a leg protruding in the longitudinal direction can be provided on at least one of the receiving mechanisms.

[0037] - extends at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis, and / or

[0038] - have an axial stop lip projecting from the respective leg, and / or

[0039] - has at least one clamping recess for inserting a clamping tab, and / or

[0040] - has at least one locking recess for accommodating the locking projection.

[0041] In principle, the leg can be used for connection to a motor vehicle component. The leg can be the leg of an L-shaped piece. With regard to a first embodiment, the angle or the clamping angle can be between 1° and 20°, preferably in a range between 5° and 15°, preferably 10°. This angle can be present in the unstressed state or in the state before preinstallation. An angle between 89° and 70°, preferably between 85° and 75°, preferably 80°, can alternatively or additionally be defined in the case of an L-shaped piece between the base and the leg. The connection of the leg to the motor vehicle component has the effect that the receiving device can be bent and thus preload can be introduced into the shock absorber.

[0042] With regard to the second embodiment, the axial stop lip can extend in the direction of the longitudinal axis, preferably parallel to the transverse center plane. The damping mass can abut against this axial stop lip in the event of large deflections in the longitudinal direction, wherein here the elastic end side is advantageous for damping. The axial stop lip can be formed integrally with the respective leg, preferably punched out.

[0043] With regard to the third embodiment, the at least one clamping recess can extend in the transverse direction. Preferably, each leg has a clamping recess extending in the transverse direction with respect to the longitudinal axis, wherein one of the clamping tabs can be accommodated in the respective clamping recess. Advantageously, two clamping recesses extending in the transverse direction with respect to the longitudinal axis are provided on each receiving device or the leg arranged thereon. The two clamping recesses of the receiving device or the leg arranged thereon can be aligned with each other and / or separated by a clamping bridge. The clamping bridge can be formed by the respective receiving device or the leg arranged thereon. The clamping tab can be clamped against the clamping bridge.

[0044] With regard to a fourth embodiment, at least one leg can have a locking recess for the locking projection, wherein the locking recess can extend in the longitudinal direction and in the transverse direction. Preferably, each of the two receiving means or the leg arranged thereon has a locking recess extending in the transverse direction relative to the longitudinal axis, wherein each of the two locking recesses can be clamped together with the support plate. This allows for a simple and fast pre-assembly of the shock absorber. It is also conceivable that the separate support plate has a locking recess and the receiving means or the leg arranged thereon has a corresponding locking projection. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0045] Further features, details and advantages of the invention emerge from the wording of the claims and from the following description of exemplary embodiments in conjunction with the figures, in which:

[0046] Figure 1 A perspective view showing a shock absorber according to a first embodiment,

[0047] Figure 2 Show according to Figure 1A longitudinal section of a shock absorber.

[0048] Figure 3 Show according to Figure 1 A perspective view of the holding device,

[0049] Figure 4 Show according to Figure 1 A perspective view of an elastomer spring,

[0050] Figure 5 Show Figure 2 Detailed picture of

[0051] Figure 6 shows a perspective view of a vibration absorber according to a second embodiment,

[0052] Figure 7 Show according to Figure 6 A longitudinal section of a shock absorber.

[0053] Figure 8 Show according to Figure 6 A perspective view of the holding device,

[0054] Fig. 9 Show according to Figure 6 Another perspective view of the holding device,

[0055] Fig.10 Show according to Figure 6 A perspective view of the pallet.

[0056] Fig.11 Show according to Figure 6 A perspective view of an elastomer spring,

[0057] Fig.12 Show Figure 7 Detailed picture of

[0058] Fig.13 A perspective view showing a shock absorber according to a third embodiment,

[0059] Fig.14 Show according to Fig.13 A longitudinal section of a shock absorber.

[0060] Fig.15 Show according to Fig.13 A perspective view of the holding device,

[0061] Fig.16 Show according to Fig.13 A perspective view of an elastomeric spring, and

[0062] Fig.17 Show Fig.14 Detail picture of.

[0063] Reference numerals list

[0064] 2 Shock absorbers

[0065] 4. Holding device

[0066] 5 Accommodation mechanism

[0067] 6 Vibration-damping quality

[0068] 8 Elastomer spring

[0069] 10 side

[0070] 12 Connection

[0071] 14 Week Side

[0072] 16 Radial spacer

[0073] 18 Surrounding grooves

[0074] 20 First flange

[0075] 22 Sidewall

[0076] 24 Support area

[0077] 26 Flange

[0078] 28 Second flange

[0079] 30 Pallet

[0080] 32 Receiving hole

[0081] 33 Ring

[0082] 34 Legs

[0083] 36 Axial retaining lip

[0084] 38 Gap

[0085] 40 Inside

[0086] 42 Outer side

[0087] 44 Sidewall

[0088] 46 Rope

[0089] 48 Clamping recess

[0090] 50 Clamping tab

[0091] 52 Locking protrusion

[0092] 54 Locking notch

[0093] 56 Clamping bridge

[0094] 58 holes

[0095] 60 Axial stop wall

[0096] 62a-62h Guide groove

[0097] 64a-64h Guide groove

[0098] A Longitudinal axis

[0099] L Vertical

[0100] Q Transverse center plane

[0101] P1 First Arrow

[0102] P2 Second arrow

[0103] R Radial

[0104] U Circumferential

[0105] α Angle DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0106] In the drawings, identical or mutually corresponding parts are respectively indicated by the same reference numerals and are therefore not described again unless it is inappropriate. Features that have already been described are no longer described to avoid repetition and can be applied to all parts with identical or mutually corresponding reference numerals unless explicitly excluded. The disclosure contained in the entire specification can be applied to the same parts with the same reference numerals or the same component names according to the meaning. Position descriptions mentioned in the specification, such as top, bottom, lateral, etc., also relate to the figures just described and shown and are applied to the new positions according to the meaning when the position changes. In addition, individual features or feature combinations from the different embodiments shown and described can also be solutions that are individual, creative or according to the present invention.

[0107] exist Figures 1 to 5 2 shows a shock absorber 2 and its components in a pre-assembled state according to a first embodiment. The shock absorber 2 serves to damp vibrations of motor vehicle components (not shown), in particular a tailgate or a roof of a motor vehicle.

[0108] The shock absorber 2 is penetrated by the transverse center plane Q and comprises a retaining device 4 which can be fixed to a motor vehicle component. The retaining device 4 has two plate-shaped annular receiving means 5 which are designed as receiving holes 32. Each receiving means 5 is a separate section of an L-shaped piece, wherein the base of the L-shape (according to the book version) forms a receiving hole 32 with a receiving groove with a circular cross section, and the legs of the L-shape (according to the book version) form legs 34 protruding from the receiving means 5 in the longitudinal direction. Each receiving hole 32 comprises an annular portion 33 extending in the longitudinal direction L, which ensures a large bearing surface for the elastomer spring 8. Each leg 34 has two holes 58 for passing fixing elements, such as screws. Each leg 34 also has an axial stop lip 36 which extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis A. Each leg 34 is inclined at an angle α relative to the longitudinal axis A. Each receiving means 5 has an inner side 40 facing the transverse center plane Q and an outer side 42 facing away from the transverse center plane Q.

[0109] The two receiving devices 5 are directly connected by means of an integral support plate 30. The two receiving devices 5 and the support plate 30 are manufactured in one piece or are designed in an integral manner. The same applies to the legs 34.

[0110] The vibration damper 2 also includes an integral damping mass 6, which can be penetrated centrally by the longitudinal axis A. The damping mass 6 has a cylindrical shape, the diameter of which remains constant along the longitudinal axis A. In addition, the damping mass 6 has a flat end face. The damping mass 6 passes through two receiving holes 32, each forming a radial spacing or a gap 38, which surrounds the damping mass 6 in the circumferential direction U, or in this case a circular gap. In the receiving holes 32, the damping mass 6 can be freely deflected in the radial direction R. The receiving hole 32 is oriented coaxially with the damping mass. It can also be seen that the receiving hole 32 is larger than the damping mass 6 at its maximum cross-sectional extension or has a larger inner diameter than it.

[0111] The shock absorber 2 further comprises two elastomeric springs 8, wherein the elastomeric springs 8 connect the damping mass 6 to the receiving device 5 in a vibration-capable manner. One of the elastomeric springs 8 is assigned to each receiving device 5. Each elastomeric spring 8 has an end side portion 10, which is designed to correspond to the cross-sectional shape of the damping mass 6, i.e., is circular. The end side portion 10 is in contact with the end side of the damping mass 6. A peripheral side portion 14 is connected to the end side portion 10, and the peripheral side portion is arranged around the damping mass 6 in the radial direction R. The peripheral side portion 14 follows the circumferential surface of the damping mass 6 in the circumferential direction U, i.e., it is annular. The peripheral side portion 14 fixes the damping mass 6 in the transverse or radial direction R. Each elastomeric spring 8 is pressed onto the damping mass by means of the end side portion 10 and the peripheral side portion 14. Therefore, the elastomeric spring 8 covers the damping mass 6 in a cover-like manner by means of the end side portion 10 and the peripheral side portion 14. Each of the elastomeric springs 8 further comprises a connecting portion 12 between the damping mass 6 and the respective receiving device 5. The connection 12 of each elastomeric spring 8 is arranged outside with respect to the respective receptacle 5 or its outer side 42. The respective hollow cylindrical connection 12 surrounds the damper mass 6 circumferentially, wherein the damper mass 6 is completely covered by the elastomeric spring 8 between its respective end face and the respective receptacle 5.

[0112] The respective connection 12 is designed as a hollow cylinder, wherein it has an inner diameter that increases in the direction of the outer side 42 of the respective receiving device 5 in some areas. This section can also be referred to as a radial spacing 16. In the radial spacing 16, the outer diameter also increases to include a constant wall thickness. The radial spacing 16 runs obliquely with respect to the longitudinal axis A in the longitudinal section.

[0113] For coupling to the receiving device 5, each elastomer spring 8 comprises coupling means, which are designed here as an outer peripheral circumferential groove 18. The coupling means are arranged between the receiving device 5 and the damping mass 6 in the radial direction R, wherein the elastomer part on the inner peripheral side with respect to the groove 18 serves as a radial stop for the damping mass 6. The receiving device 5 is inserted into the surrounding groove 18 like a flange through the receiving opening 32 and with the annular part 33.

[0114] Each elastomer spring 8 has a first flange 20, against which the respective receiving means 5 abuts. The first flange 20 has a side wall 22 of increasing diameter in the direction of the transverse center plane Q. The respective receiving means 5 has a corresponding contour in the bearing area 24 abutting against the side wall 22. The first flange 20 is an annular flange on the outer circumference. The side wall 22 designed in this way can deform the elastomer spring 8 when the damping mass 6 moves axially along the first arrow P1, that is, the first flange 20 is bent radially inward in the direction of the second arrow P2, where it forms a radial stop and reduces the radial deflection distance of the damping mass 6. The first flange 20 has a flat flange portion 26 on the outer circumference, which reduces the radial extension of the first flange 20 relative to the adjacent section on the circumferential side of the first flange 20.

[0115] Each elastomer spring 8 also has a second flange 28, against which the respective receiving means 5 also rests, wherein the second flange 28 has a side wall 44 extending in the radial direction R, on which the receiving means 5 is supported in the longitudinal direction L via the annular section 33. The side wall 44 extends parallel to the transverse center plane Q. The second flange 28 is an annular flange on the outer circumference. It is conceivable that the surrounding groove 18 is formed by the first flange 20 and the second flange 28 and is delimited in the longitudinal direction L.

[0116] exist Figures 6 to 12 2 shows a shock absorber 2 and its components in a pre-assembled state according to a second embodiment. In order to avoid repetitions, only the differences from the first embodiment will be described below.

[0117] The legs 34 now have no axial stop lip 36, although it can be provided. Each leg 34 comprises two clamping recesses 48 extending in a transverse direction to the longitudinal axis A. The two clamping recesses 48 of a leg 34 are aligned with each other and are separated from each other by a clamping bridge 56. The clamping bridge 56 is formed by the respective leg 34. Each leg 34 also comprises a locking recess 54, wherein the locking recess 54 extends in a transverse direction relative to the longitudinal axis A. The two legs 34 can be inclined at an angle α relative to the longitudinal axis A, but this is not necessary.

[0118] Now, the holding device 4 does not include an integral support plate 30, but rather a separate support plate 30, which is clamped and locked together with the leg 34. The separate support plate 30 is against the bottom side 34 of the leg 34 facing away from the damping mass and includes two clamping lugs 50 extending in the same direction in the transverse direction. Each clamping lug 50 is guided from the bottom side of the respective leg 34 facing away from the damping mass to the top side of the respective leg 34 facing the damping mass by a respective clamping recess 48. There, each clamping lug 50 is clamped together with a leg 34 or its clamping bridge 56. The separate support plate 30 also includes a laterally extending locking projection 52 at the end side. Each locking projection 52 is locked together with a respective locking recess 54. The clamping lug 50 holds the leg 34 and thus also the receiving mechanism 5 on the separate support plate 30, and the locking projection 52 prevents the leg 34 and thus also the receiving mechanism 5 from slipping. The elastomer spring 8 does not have a flange 26 , which may be provided. A hole 58 is provided in the support plate 30 that is aligned with the hole 58 of the leg 34 .

[0119] exist Figures 13 to 17 2 shows a shock absorber 2 and its components in a pre-assembled state according to a third embodiment. In order to avoid repetitions, only the differences from the first embodiment will be described below.

[0120] The legs 34 now each have an axial stop wall 60 instead of the axial stop lip 36. This is achieved in that the axial stop wall 60 protrudes at an angle from the legs 34, preferably defining an angle in the range of 100° to 120°. A section including the hole 48 in turn protrudes from this.

[0121] The damping mass 6 is now designed as a cube, but also includes an end face. The receiving hole 32 is now also quasi-rectangular, and the damping mass 6 and the receiving hole 32 are matched to each other in such a way that the damping mass 6 cannot rotate very far about the longitudinal axis A in the receiving hole 32, but is limited therein by the receiving hole 32. The two elastomer springs 8 are now also adapted to the cubic shape of the damping mass 6 and the rectangular shape of the receiving hole 32 and the receiving recess with a rectangular cross section and are designed in the shape of a hollow cube. The same applies to the flange 33.

[0122] These two legs 34 or accommodating mechanism 5 are not connected to a pallet. But they are tightened by means of a rope 46 which is an endless rope. Rope 46 is guided in eight guide grooves 62a-62h of accommodating mechanism 5, wherein it is shown with dotted lines in the shielding area for understanding. Now, the direction of rope 46 is such that it enters the guide groove 62b of another accommodating mechanism 5 through the guide groove 62a of an accommodating mechanism 5. From there, it passes through another guide groove 62c upward on the drawing and is guided back to another accommodating mechanism 5 and its guide groove 62d from there. From there, it passes through another guide groove 62e and enters other accommodating mechanism 5 and its guide groove 62f again. The direction of rope 46 between guide grooves 62c, 62d and guide grooves 62e, 62f crosses. From guide groove 62f, rope 46 is guided downward in the drawing and passes through guide groove 62g and guide groove 62h. It can also be seen that the elastomeric spring 8 also has guide grooves 64a - 64h which are aligned in the longitudinal direction L with the respective guide grooves 62a - 62h and by which the rope 46 is guided.

[0123] The mode of operation of the shock absorber 2 will be explained below. The vibrations of the motor vehicle component connected to the shock absorber 2 are transmitted to the shock absorber mass 6 via the retaining device 4 and the elastomer spring 8. As a result, the shock absorber mass 6 is deflected relative to the retaining device 4 and begins to vibrate, wherein the vibrations are damped by the two elastomer springs 8 and are thus separated from the passenger compartment. As a result, no annoying rattling from the motor vehicle component can be felt in the passenger compartment. Instead of a pin, the shock absorber mass 6 limits its own deflection relative to the retaining device 4 as a displacement limiting mechanism because it abuts against the elastomer spring 8 arranged in the receiving hole 3. As a result, overloading of the elastomer spring 8 is actively prevented, so that the shock absorber 2 has a long service life. In addition, the elastomer spring 8 arranged in the receiving hole 32 damps the noise that occurs when the shock absorber mass 6 stops.

[0124] The invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, but can be varied in various ways. All features and advantages from the claims, the description and the drawings, including structural details, spatial arrangements and method steps, can be important to the invention not only individually but also in various combinations.

[0125] All combinations of at least two features disclosed in the description, the claims and / or the figures fall within the scope of the invention.

[0126] In order to avoid repetition, features disclosed in relation to the device should also be considered as disclosed and claimable in relation to the method. Likewise, features disclosed in relation to the method should also be considered as disclosed and claimable in relation to the device.

Claims

1. A vibration damper for damping vibrations of a motor vehicle component through which a transverse center plane (Q) passes, the vibration damper comprising a holding device (4) which can be fixed to the motor vehicle component and has at least two receiving means (5), each receiving means having an inner side (40) facing the transverse center plane (Q) and an outer side (42) facing away from the transverse center plane (Q), the vibration damper having a vibration damping mass (6) through which a longitudinal axis (A) passes in the center and having at least two elastomer springs (8), in, The elastomeric springs (8) connect the damping mass (6) to the receiving means (5) in a vibration-capable manner, characterized in that at least one of the elastomeric springs (8) has a connection (12) between the damping mass (6) and the respective receiving means (5), the connection (12) extending at least predominantly on the outside with respect to the respective receiving means (5).

2. The vibration absorber according to claim 1, Its characteristics are: The receiving means (5) are respectively designed as receiving holes (32).

3. A vibration absorber according to any one of the preceding claims, Its characteristics are: Each elastomeric spring (8) has an end portion (10) for contacting an end side of the damping mass (6) and a connection portion (12) protruding therefrom in the direction of the transverse center plane (Q) for engaging with the corresponding receiving device.

4. The vibration absorber according to claim 1, Its characteristics are: Each elastomeric spring (8) has a circumferential side (14) which is arranged radially (R) around the damper mass (6) and / or is connected to the damper mass.

5. The vibration absorber according to claim 1, Its characteristics are: The connecting portion (12) has at least partially an inner diameter which increases towards the outer side (42) of the corresponding receiving device (5).

6. The vibration absorber according to claim 1, Its characteristics are: The connecting portion (12) has a coupling mechanism for coupling to the corresponding receiving mechanism (5).

7. The vibration absorber according to claim 1, Its characteristics are: Each elastomer spring (8) has a first flange (20) against which the corresponding receiving device (5) rests.

8. The vibration absorber according to claim 7, Its characteristics are: The first flange (20) has a flange portion (26) on the outer circumference, which reduces the radial extension of the first flange relative to a circumferential adjoining section of the first flange (20).

9. The vibration absorber according to claim 1, Its characteristics are: Each elastomeric spring (8) has a second flange (28) against which the corresponding receiving device (5) bears, wherein the second flange (28) has a side wall (44) extending in the radial direction (R) and on which the receiving device (5) is supported in the longitudinal direction (L).

10. The vibration absorber according to claim 1, Its characteristics are: The retaining device (4) does not have a structure for connecting the accommodating mechanisms (5) to each other, or the retaining device (4) has a support plate (30) which connects the accommodating mechanisms (5) to each other, wherein the support plate (30) is designed to be integral with the accommodating mechanisms (5), or is constructed separately and connected to the accommodating mechanisms (5), or the retaining device has at least one rope (46) for tightening the accommodating mechanisms to each other.

11. The vibration absorber according to claim 1, Its characteristics are: At least one of the accommodating mechanisms (5) is provided with a leg (34) protruding in the longitudinal direction (L), the leg extending obliquely at an angle (α) relative to the longitudinal axis (A), and / or the leg has an axial stop lip (36) protruding from the respective leg (34), and / or the leg has at least one clamping recess (48) for inserting a clamping protrusion (50), and / or the leg has at least one locking recess (54) for accommodating a locking protrusion (52).

12. The vibration absorber according to claim 2, Its characteristics are: The damper mass (6) passes through at least one of the receiving openings (32) in the longitudinal direction (L) with a radial spacing therebetween.

13. The vibration absorber according to claim 2, Its characteristics are: The damper mass (6) passes through two receiving openings in the longitudinal direction (L) with a radial spacing therebetween.

14. The vibration absorber according to claim 6, Its characteristics are: The connecting portion (12) has a circumferential groove (18) for engaging with the corresponding receiving mechanism (5).

15. The vibration absorber according to claim 6, Its characteristics are: The coupling device is arranged in the radial direction (R) between the receiving device (5) and the damping mass (6).

16. The vibration absorber according to claim 7, Its characteristics are: The first flange (20) has a side wall (22) whose diameter increases in the direction of the transverse center plane (Q), and the corresponding receiving device (5) has a corresponding contour in a bearing area (24) against the side wall (22).

17. The vibration absorber according to claim 10, Its characteristics are: The support plate (30) is connected to the receiving device (5) by means of at least one form fit and / or press fit.

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