Flexible spring member and end cap assembly and gas spring and gas damper assembly comprising the same

Abstract

The flexible spring member and end cap assembly (FEA) includes a flexible spring member (200) defining a spring chamber (202). The end cap body (502) includes an outer peripheral surface portion (512) and an elongated damping channel (522) extending axially into the end cap wall (506) in a helical arrangement about a longitudinal axis (AX). The end cap body (502) is positioned along an end (208) of the flexible spring member (200), wherein a flexible wall (204) is permanently attached along the outer peripheral surface portion (512), forming a substantially fluid-tight joint between the flexible spring member (200) and the end cap body (502). The invention also includes a gas spring and gas damper assembly (AS1) and a method of assembly.

Description

Background Technology

[0001] This disclosure broadly relates to the field of gas spring devices, and more specifically, to flexible spring components and end cap assemblies including elongated damping channels. It also includes gas spring and gas damper assemblies comprising such flexible spring components and end cap assemblies, and methods of assembly.

[0002] The subject matter of this disclosure is specifically associated with wheeled vehicle applications and uses, and will be shown and described herein with reference to this. However, it should be understood that the subject matter of this disclosure can also be used in other applications and environments, and the specific uses shown and described herein are merely exemplary. For example, the subject matter of this disclosure can be used in conjunction with suspension systems and / or support structures and height adjustment systems for wheelless vehicles associated with industrial machinery, components of such industrial machinery, and / or other such equipment. Therefore, the subject matter of this disclosure is not intended to be limited to applications and / or uses associated with suspension systems for wheeled vehicles, such applications and / or uses discussed herein are merely exemplary.

[0003] Most types and categories of wheeled motor vehicles include sprung mass (such as, for example, the body or chassis) and unsprung mass (such as, for example, two or more axles or other wheel-jointing components with a suspension system therebetween). Typically, such suspension systems include multiple spring units and multiple damping units, which together allow the sprung and unsprung masses of the vehicle to move relative to each other in a controlled manner. Generally, the multiple spring units are used to accommodate forces and loads associated with vehicle operation and use, and the multiple damping units are used to operatively dissipate unwanted inputs and movements of the vehicle, especially during its dynamic operation. Movement of sprung and unsprung mass toward each other is commonly referred to in the art as bump motion, while movement of sprung and unsprung mass away from each other is commonly referred to in the art as bounce motion.

[0004] In many applications involving vehicle suspension systems, it is desirable to utilize spring elements with the lowest possible spring stiffness because using spring elements with lower spring stiffness provides improved ride quality and comfort compared to spring elements with higher spring stiffness. That is, it should be well understood in the art that the use of spring elements with higher spring stiffness (i.e., springs with greater stiffness) transfers a larger amount of road input to the sprung mass of the vehicle, and this generally results in a bumpier and less comfortable ride. Conversely, the use of spring elements with lower spring stiffness (i.e., softer and more compliant springs) transfers a smaller amount of road input to the sprung mass, and therefore provides a more comfortable ride.

[0005] Such suspension systems also typically include one or more dampers or damping components that operatively dissipate energy associated with undesirable inputs and movements of the sprung mass, such as road surface inputs occurring during vehicle dynamics. Typically, such dampers are fluid-filled and operatively connected between the sprung and unsprung mass, such as between the vehicle body and axles. An example of such damping components is the conventional shock absorber commonly used in vehicle suspension systems.

[0006] However, in other arrangements, the damper or damping component may be of a type and kind that uses gas rather than liquid as the working medium. In such known constructions, the gas damper section allows gas to flow between two or more compressed gas volumes through one or more channels or ports. Generally, there is some resistance to the movement of compressed gas through these channels or ports, and this resistance serves to dissipate the energy associated with the gas spring section, thereby providing a degree of damping.

[0007] Despite any use and / or success of known structures, it is expected that the development of such gas spring and gas damper assemblies, and suspension systems including one or more such assemblies, will overcome the difficulties associated with known constructions and / or otherwise advance the field of gas spring and gas damper assemblies and / or suspension systems including them. Summary of the Invention

[0008] An example of a flexible spring member and end cap assembly according to the subject matter of this disclosure may include a flexible spring member having a longitudinal axis. The flexible spring member may include a flexible wall extending longitudinally between a first end and a second end and extending about the periphery of the longitudinal axis to at least partially define a spring chamber. An end cap body may include an end cap wall oriented transversely to the longitudinal axis, having a first surface portion axially facing the spring chamber and a second surface portion axially away from the spring chamber. The end cap body also includes an outer peripheral surface portion and an elongated damping channel extending helically about the longitudinal axis into the end cap wall. The end cap body is positioned along the second end of the flexible spring member, wherein the flexible wall is permanently attached along the outer peripheral surface portion of the end cap body, such that a substantially fluid-tight joint is formed between the flexible spring member and the end cap body.

[0009] An example of a gas spring and gas damper assembly according to the subject matter of this disclosure may include a flexible spring member having a longitudinal axis. The flexible spring member may include a flexible wall extending longitudinally between a first end and a second end and extending about the periphery of the longitudinal axis to at least partially define a spring chamber. An end cap body may include an end cap wall oriented transversely to the longitudinal axis, having a first surface portion axially facing the spring chamber and a second surface portion axially away from the spring chamber. The end cap body also includes an outer peripheral surface portion and an elongated damping channel extending helically about the longitudinal axis into the end cap wall. The end cap body is positioned along the second end of the flexible spring member, wherein the flexible wall is permanently attached along the outer peripheral surface portion of the end cap body, such that a substantially fluid-tight joint is formed between the flexible spring member and the end cap body. A first end member may be operatively fixed to the first end of the flexible spring member, such that a substantially fluid-tight seal is formed therebetween. Alternatively or in an alternative embodiment, a second end member may be configured to be spaced apart from the first end member. The second end member may include an end member wall that at least partially defines an end member chamber within the second end member. The end member wall may include an inner wall portion that at least partially defines an open end of the end member chamber facing the spring chamber. The end cap body may be oriented transversely to the longitudinal axis. The end cap body may include a first surface portion axially facing the spring chamber and a second surface portion axially facing the end member chamber. The end cap body may also include an outer peripheral surface portion and an elongated damping channel that extends helically into the end cap wall about the longitudinal axis. The end cap body may be disposed within the open end of the second end member such that the second end of the flexible spring member is compressively trapped between the outer peripheral surface portion of the end cap body and the inner wall portion of the end member wall.

[0010] In some cases, the gas spring and gas damper assembly according to the foregoing paragraph may include an end cap assembly, which may include an end cap body and a cover plate.

[0011] An example of a method for assembling a gas spring and gas damper assembly according to the subject matter of this disclosure may include providing a flexible spring member having a longitudinal axis and including a flexible wall having an end. The method may also include providing an end cap body including a first surface portion, a second surface portion facing opposite to the first surface portion, an outer peripheral surface portion, and an elongated damping channel extending axially into the end cap wall in a helical arrangement around the longitudinal axis. The method may further include permanently attaching the end of the flexible wall to the outer peripheral surface portion of the end cap body, thereby forming a flexible spring member and end cap assembly that at least partially defines a spring chamber. The method may further include providing an end member including an end member wall that at least partially defines an end member chamber. The method may further include attaching the flexible spring member and end cap assembly to the end member such that the spring chamber and the end member chamber are configured to be in fluid communication with each other through the elongated gas damping channel. Attached Figure Description

[0012] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an example of a vehicle that includes one or more suspension systems according to the subject matter of this disclosure.

[0013] Figure 2 This is a greatly simplified schematic diagram of an example of a suspension system according to the subject matter of this disclosure.

[0014] Figure 3 This is a greatly simplified schematic diagram of another example of a suspension system according to the subject matter of this disclosure.

[0015] Figure 4 This is a top perspective view of an example of a gas spring and gas damper assembly according to the subject matter of this disclosure.

[0016] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 Top plan view of an exemplary gas spring and gas damper assembly.

[0017] Figure 6 yes Figure 4 and Figure 5 A side front view of an exemplary gas spring and gas damper assembly.

[0018] Figure 7 It is along Figure 5 The line 7-7 is cut from Figures 4 to 6 A cross-sectional side view of an exemplary gas spring and gas damper assembly.

[0019] Figure 7A yes Figure 7 Enlarged view of a portion of the exemplary gas spring and gas damper assembly, labeled as detail 7A.

[0020] Figure 8It is along Figure 5 The line 8-8 in the middle is cut off Figures 4 to 7 A cross-sectional side view of an exemplary gas spring and gas damper assembly.

[0021] Figure 9 This is a top perspective view of an example end cap body according to the subject matter of this disclosure, such as combined Figures 4 to 8 An exemplary gas spring and gas damper assembly is shown in the figure.

[0022] Figure 10 yes Figures 7 to 9 Top plan view of an exemplary end cap body.

[0023] Figure 11 yes Figures 7 to 10 The bottom plan view of the exemplary end cap body.

[0024] Figure 12 It is along Figure 10 The line 12-12 in the middle is cut off Figures 7 to 11 A cross-sectional side view of an exemplary end cap body.

[0025] Figure 13 This is a bottom plan view of an example cover plate according to the subject matter of this disclosure, such as in combination Figures 7 to 12 The end cap body is shown in the image.

[0026] Figure 14 It undergoes the exemplary assembly method Figures 4 to 13 An exploded cross-sectional view of an exemplary gas spring and gas damper assembly. Detailed Implementation

[0027] Turning now to the accompanying drawings, it should be understood that the illustrations are examples intended to illustrate the subject matter of this disclosure and that the examples shown are not intended to be limiting. Furthermore, it should be understood that the drawings are not drawn to scale, and portions of certain features and / or elements may be exaggerated for clarity and ease of understanding.

[0028] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 3 Vehicle 100 is shown in the form of a tractor-trailer combination comprising a tractor 102 and a trailer 104 operatively connected to the tractor for long-haul transport. The tractor 102 is shown including a frame 106 supported by a suspension system over a plurality of wheels 108. The tractor 102 will also typically include an internal combustion engine (not shown) and a powertrain (not shown) supported on the frame and providing power to one or more wheels 108. The tractor 102 may include a fuel tank 110 and an exhaust pipe 112 operatively associated with the engine.

[0029] The tractor unit 102 may also include an operator's cab or cab 114, which may be supported on or along the frame 106 in any suitable manner, such as, for example, by one or more cab mounts and / or one or more cab suspensions. Alternatively, or in another embodiment, the tractor unit 102 may optionally include a seat suspension located within the cab. It should be understood that the cab (such as, for example, cab 114) will generally be supported on or along the frame 106 by one or more cab mounts, one or more cab suspensions, and / or the seat will be supported within the cab by one or more seat suspensions. If included, such one or more cab suspensions and / or seat suspensions may include one or more gas spring assemblies and / or one or more dampers, which may be operatively connected in any suitable manner to or along the corresponding one of the frame 106 and the cab 114 and / or the seat within the cab. The trailer 104 is shown as including a frame 116 supported by a suspension system on a plurality of wheels 118. Trailer 104 may also include trailer body 120, which is at least partially supported on frame 116 and is generally sized to accommodate and hold a quantity of cargo.

[0030] Figures 1 to 3 The suspension system 122 is designated individually and / or collectively to represent the various tractor, trailer, cab, and seat suspensions discussed above. The suspension system 122 may include one or more gas spring assemblies 124 of any other type, kind, and / or configuration, such as, for example, a rolling cam configuration. Additionally, it should be understood that the suspension system 122 may include one or more dampers that, together with the one or more gas spring assemblies, allow sprung and unsprung mass to move relative to each other in a slightly controlled manner. The gas spring assembly 124 and any dampers operably associated therewith are operably positioned between the sprung and unsprung mass of the vehicle 100, such as, for example, between the frame 116 and the axles and / or wheels 118 of the trailer 104.

[0031] Depending on desired performance characteristics and / or other factors, in some cases, one or more gas spring assemblies may be supplied and installed separately from one or more damper assemblies. Alternatively or additionally, the gas spring assembly may be assembled with the damper assembly such that at least a portion of the gas spring assembly co-extends axially with the damper assembly to form a so-called gas spring and damper assembly. In some cases, the damper may be of a type and kind utilizing compressed gas as the working medium. Such compressed gas or “air” dampers may be operatively associated with the gas spring assembly, such as to form a so-called gas spring and gas damper assembly. Exemplary configurations of such so-called gas spring and gas damper assemblies are described in more detail below. It should be understood that gas spring assemblies and their components according to the subject matter of this disclosure are shown and described herein with particular reference to gas spring and gas damper assemblies. However, it should be recognized and understood that such configurations in suspension system 122 are optional, and gas spring assemblies (and their components and assemblies) according to the subject matter of this disclosure are not intended to be limited to use in gas spring and gas damper assemblies, unless otherwise specifically referenced thereto.

[0032] It should be understood that many components and / or systems of vehicle 100 may utilize compressed gas (e.g., air) in conjunction with their operation. As a non-limiting example, such components and / or systems may include a tractor suspension system, a tractor braking system, a cab suspension, a trailer suspension system, and / or a trailer braking system. Figure 2 The diagram shows a greatly simplified example of a compressed gas system 126 that can be operatively associated with the suspension system 122 and / or one or more other components and / or systems of vehicle 100, wherein additional (or alternative) examples of the compressed gas system are shown in Figure 3 As shown in the figure. Figure 3 In and Figure 2 Compared to the components in the text, these are additional, optional, or otherwise different components and devices. Figure 3 The compressed gas system 126 may be operatively associated with one or more components and / or systems of the vehicle in any suitable manner for selectively supplying compressed gas (e.g., air) to and selectively delivering compressed gas from there.

[0033] exist Figure 2 and Figure 3In the exemplary arrangement shown, the compressed gas system 126 includes a compressed gas source 128, such as, for example, a compressor, for generating compressed air or other gases. A control device 130, such as, for example, a valve assembly, is shown in communication with the compressed gas source 128 and can be any suitable configuration or arrangement. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the control device 130 may include a valve assembly having a plurality of valves 134 supported thereon by a valve block 132. The control device 130 may also optionally include a suitable venting device 136, such as, for example, a muffler, for discharging compressed gas from the system. The compressed gas system 126 may also optionally include a reservoir 138, shown in fluid communication with the compressed gas source and / or the control device, and adapted to store compressed gas under high pressure for an extended period of time, such as minutes, hours, days, weeks, or months. Figure 2 and Figure 3 In the arrangement shown, control device 130 is connected to assembly 124 via gas supply line 140. Therefore, compressed gas can be selectively delivered into and / or out of the assembly via control device 130, such as by selectively operating valve 134.

[0034] In some cases, component 124 may optionally include one or more parts and / or other features operable to generate compressed gas damping within the component itself. As an example, the component may include two or more compressed gas volumes within the gas spring and gas damper assembly, wherein compressed gas flows between the compressed gas volumes during operation and / or use to dissipate inputs, vibrations, and / or other excitations acting on the gas spring and gas damper assembly, such as those described below. Figures 4 to 13 As described. Alternatively, or in an alternative embodiment, component 124 may be operatively associated with one or more compressed gas volumes external to the component. In such cases, the external compressed gas volume may be suitably configured to be in fluid communication with one or more of the gas spring and gas damper assemblies, such as, for example, through one or more external gas lines.

[0035] As a non-limiting example, the compressed gas system 126 in Figure 1 and Figure 2 The system is shown to include an outer container 142, which includes a plurality of discrete damper volumes 144 within one of the outer container 142. As another non-limiting example, the compressed gas system 126... Figure 1 and Figure 3The assembly is shown to include a plurality of outer containers 142', which include a plurality of damper volumes 144 and a plurality of discrete damper volumes 144'. The damper volumes 144 are shown to have generally common dimensions and shapes, wherein one of the damper volumes 144 is configured to be in fluid communication with a corresponding one of the components 124. However, the damper volumes 144 are shown to have different dimensions and / or shapes, wherein one damper volume of each size is configured to be in fluid communication with a corresponding one of the components 124. Figure 3 The corresponding gas spring and gas damper assembly are in fluid communication. It should be understood that any configuration and / or combination of volumes 144 and / or 144' can be used. With the use of two different sized damper volumes, the suspension system is expected to be operable to damp or dissipate inputs, vibrations and / or other excitations acting on the gas spring and gas damper assembly within two or more different target or otherwise predetermined vibration frequency ranges (such as, for example, in the range from about 0.5 Hz to 2 Hz and from about 6 Hz to 14 Hz).

[0036] It will be recognized and understood that any suitable number of two or more discrete damper volumes can be included within each outer container. The damper volumes 144 are fluidly isolated from each other within each of the outer containers 142, such that the installation or other arrangement of a single outer container provides discrete damper volumes for use by each of a plurality of gas springs and gas damper assemblies. Figure 2 As shown, each of the components 124 is configured to be in fluid communication with one of the damper volumes 144 via an air supply line 146, such that compressed gas enters and exits the respective components and damper volumes 144 and / or otherwise passes between them during operation and / or use of the suspension system 120 to dissipate inputs, vibrations and / or other excitations acting on the vehicle 100, such as, for example, on or along the tractor 102 and / or trailer 104.

[0037] In some cases, the suspension system 122 may include a passive flow device 148, which is configured to be in fluid communication with the component 124 and the damper volume 144, along them, or otherwise between them, such as, for example Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown. The passive flow device 148 may include an orifice or throttling element operable to tune or assist in tuning the suspension system to dampen or dissipate inputs, vibrations, and / or other excitations acting on the gas spring and gas damper assembly, particularly those within a target or otherwise predetermined frequency range, such as, for example, in the range from about 0.5-2 Hz and / or from about 6-14 Hz. It should be understood that the passive flow device may be fluidly connected in any suitable manner to, along, or otherwise communicate with, one in assembly 124 and a corresponding one in damper volume 144. As a non-limiting example, the passive flow device 148 may be mounted within assembly 124, such as, for example, on or along its end members.

[0038] In some cases, gas line 140 may be fluidly connected to a corresponding gas line 146, such that compressed gas can be selectively delivered to and / or delivered from the assembly to the outside via control device 130. In some cases, one or more control devices (such as, for example, check valves, pressure holding valves, and / or pressure relief valves) may be configured to be fluidly connected to, along, or otherwise between gas lines 140 and / or 146, such as in Figure 2 The middle part is represented by box 150.

[0039] As described above, it should be understood that the compressed gas system 126 is greatly simplified and only one example of a compressed gas system that can be used with gas spring and gas damper assemblies according to the subject matter of this disclosure is shown. Therefore, it should be understood that the compressed gas system may include any one or more additional systems and / or components. For example, in some cases, the compressed gas system 126 may include a control system 152 capable of communicating with any one or more systems and / or components of the vehicle 100, such as for selective operation and / or control thereof. The control system 152 may include a controller or electronic control unit (ECU) 154 that is, for example, connected in communication with a compressed gas source 128 and / or control device 130 via a conductor or lead 156 for selective operation and control thereof, which may include supplying and / or discharging compressed gas from the components 124 of the suspension systems 118 and / or 132 accordingly. It should be understood that the controller 158 may be of any suitable type, kind, and / or configuration.

[0040] The control system 152 may optionally include one or more sensors 158, such as those operatively associated with components and capable of outputting or otherwise generating data, signals, and / or other communications relating to one or more of the following: the height of one or more components; the distance between other parts of the vehicle; pressure or temperature relating to one or more components and / or wheels or tires or other parts associated with one or more components; and / or acceleration, load, or other inputs acting on one or more components. Sensors 158 may communicate with an ECU 154, which may receive data, signals, and / or other communications from the sensors. For example, sensors may communicate with ECU 154 in any suitable manner, such as, for example, through conductors or leads 160. Furthermore, it should be understood that the sensing device may be of any suitable type, kind, and / or structure, and may be operated using any suitable combination of one or more operating principles and / or technologies.

[0041] Examples of suspension systems (e.g., suspension system 122) that may include gas springs and other damper assemblies (e.g., assembly 124) according to the subject matter of this disclosure have been described, and will now be combined with Figures 4 to 13 An example of such a gas spring and gas damper assembly is described. As shown therein, such as those suitable for use as... Figures 1 to 3 One or more components 124 of the gas spring and gas damper assembly AS1 are shown having a longitudinal axis AX and including a flexible spring member 200. The gas spring and gas damper assembly AS1 also includes an end member (or end member assembly) 300, which is fixed to or along the flexible spring member to form a substantially fluid-tight connection between them. The gas spring and gas damper assembly also includes an end member (or end member assembly) 400, which is operatively connected to the flexible spring member 200 via an end cap assembly 500. The flexible spring member 200 can be fixed to or along the end member in a substantially fluid-tight manner, such that the spring chamber 202 ( Figure 7 and Figure 8 The flexible spring member at least partially defines the end member 300, the end member assembly 400 and / or the end cap assembly 500.

[0042] It should be understood that the flexible spring member 200 can have any suitable size, shape, structure, and / or configuration. Furthermore, the flexible spring member can be of any type and / or kind, such as a rolling cam type or a spiral bellows type structure. The flexible spring member 200 in... Figures 4 to 8The diagram illustrates a flexible wall 204, which can be formed in any suitable manner from any suitable material or combination of materials. For example, the flexible wall may comprise one or more fabric-reinforced elastomeric posts or layers and / or one or more unreinforced elastomeric posts or layers. Typically, one or more fabric-reinforced elastomeric posts and one or more unreinforced elastomeric posts are used together and formed from common elastomeric materials such as synthetic rubber, natural rubber, or thermoplastic elastomers. However, in other cases, combinations of two or more different materials, two or more compounds of similar materials, or two or more grades of the same material may be used.

[0043] The flexible wall 204 may extend generally longitudinally between opposite ends 206 and 208. Additionally, the flexible wall 204 may include an outer surface 210 and an inner surface 212. The inner surface may at least partially define the spring chamber 202 of the gas spring and gas damper assembly AS1. The flexible wall 204 may include an outer fabric layer or covering fabric layer (not identified) that at least partially forms the outer surface 210, and may also include an inner fabric layer or lining fabric layer (not identified) that at least partially forms the inner surface 212. In some cases, the flexible wall 204 may also include one or more reinforcing posts (not shown) disposed between the outer surface 210 and the inner surface 212. The one or more reinforcing posts may have any suitable structure and / or configuration. For example, the one or more reinforcing posts may include one or more filament materials of one or more lengths at least partially embedded therein. Furthermore, it should be understood that, if present, the one or more filament materials of one or more lengths may be oriented in any suitable manner. As an example, a flexible wall may include at least one layer or cord of filament material of various lengths oriented at an oblique angle and at least one layer or cord of filament material of various lengths oriented at the same but opposite oblique angle.

[0044] The flexible spring member 200 may include any feature or combination of features adapted to form a substantially fluid-tight connection with the end member 300 and / or the end member assembly 400. As an example, the flexible spring member 200 may include a mounting bead 214 disposed along end 206 of the flexible wall 204 and a mounting bead 216 disposed along end 208 of the flexible wall. In some cases, the mounting bead (if present) may optionally include a reinforcing element, such as, for example, an endless annular bead wire 218.

[0045] It should be understood that the end member can be of any suitable type, kind, structure and / or construction, and can be operatively connected to or otherwise secured to the flexible spring member in any suitable manner. Figures 4 to 8In the exemplary arrangement shown, for example, end member 300 is of the type commonly referred to as a bead plate and includes an end member wall 302 having a mounting wall portion 304 and an outer peripheral wall portion 306. End member 300 is disposed along the end 206 of flexible wall 204, wherein the outer peripheral wall portion 306 is curled or otherwise deformed around at least a portion of the mounting bead 214, such that a substantially fluid-tight seal can be formed between flexible spring member 200 and end member 300. Mounting wall portion 304 may have an approximately planar outer surface portion 308, the dimensions of which are designed to adjacently engage associated structural components (e.g., upper structural component USC).

[0046] Mounting wall portion 304 may at least partially define one or more channels or openings 310 extending through end member 300, such as those adapted for operative connection to a compressed gas line in fluid communication with component AS1, for example. Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown. In some cases, end member 300 may include one or more passive flow devices 312 configured to be in fluid communication with opening 310. Passive flow device 312 may include orifices or throttling channels having a non-cylindrical cross-sectional profile, operable to tune or assist in tuning the suspension system to dampen or dissipate inputs, vibrations and / or other excitations acting on the gas spring and gas damper assembly, particularly those in a target or otherwise predetermined frequency range, such as, for example, in the range from about 0.5-2 Hz and / or from about 6-14 Hz.

[0047] The gas spring and gas damper assembly AS1 can be positioned in any suitable manner between the associated sprung and unsprung masses of the associated vehicle. For example, one end member is operatively connected to the associated sprung mass, while another end member is arranged toward and operatively connected to the associated unsprung mass. Figure 6 As shown, for example, end member 300 may be in the first or upper structural component USC (such as, for example) Figure 1The end member 300 is fixed to or along the trailer body 120 of the USC and can be secured to the component in any suitable manner. For example, the end member 300 may include one or more securing devices, such as mounting studs 314. In some cases, one or more securing devices (e.g., mounting studs 314) may protrude outward from the mounting wall portion 304 of the end member 300 and may be secured thereto in a suitable manner (e.g., via a flowing material joint (not shown) or a press-fit connection (not shown)). Alternatively, such one or more securing devices may extend through mounting holes HLS in the upper structural member USC and may receive, for example, one or more nuts 316 or other securing devices. As an alternative to one or more mounting studs 314, one or more threaded channels (e.g., blind channels and / or through channels) may be used in conjunction with a corresponding number of one or more threaded fasteners.

[0048] End member assembly 400 can be fixed to or along the second or lower structural member LSC in any suitable manner, such as, for example Figure 1 The axle and / or wheel 118 in the structure. As an example, the lower structural component LSC may include one or more extended mounting holes HLS passing through it. In such cases, threaded fastener 402 ( Figure 6 The end member assembly 400 can be extended through one of the mounting holes HLS and threadedly engaged to secure the end member assembly to or along the lower structural member. However, it should be understood that other constructions and / or arrangements may be alternatively used.

[0049] End member assembly 400 is shown as including features associated with an end member of a type commonly referred to as a piston (or roll-off piston). It should be understood that various sizes, shapes, profiles, and / or configurations can and have been used to form end members of the type and kind referred to as pistons or roll-off pistons, such as, for example, end member assembly 400. Therefore, it should be understood that the walls and / or wall portions of the end member can be any suitable shape, profile, and / or configuration, such as those used to provide one or more desired performance characteristics, for example, Figures 4 to 8 The outlines shown are merely illustrative.

[0050] End member assembly 400 extends longitudinally between ends 404 and 406. End 404 is adapted to receiveably engage end 208 of flexible spring member 200 with end 406 of end member assembly 400, and is adapted to adjacently engage associated structural members, such as those described above for example, for engaging lower structural member LSC.

[0051] The end member assembly 400 includes an end member body or housing 408 and may optionally include one or more additional parts and / or elements. The end member body 408 has a first or outer sidewall portion 410 extending generally longitudinally between a first end 404 and a second end 406. In the assembled state and during use, a portion of the flexible spring member 200 forms a rolling cam 220 that shifts along an outer surface portion 412 of the outer sidewall portion 410 as the gas spring and gas damper assembly undergoes changes in total height, such as, for example, due to changes in the load conditions applied thereto, as is well known to those skilled in the art.

[0052] The end member assembly 400 may also include an end member base 414, which is fixed to or along the end member housing 408 facing the end member assembly 400. The end member base 414 may be fixed to or along the end member housing 408 in any suitable manner, such as, for example, by welding the end member base and the end member housing together, for example, as indicated by the flow material connector 416. A mounting hole 418 may optionally extend through the end member base 414, and a threaded insert 420 may be suitablely fixed to the end member base 414 along the mounting hole 418, such as, for example, through a flow material connector 422.

[0053] The outer wall portion 410 of the end member housing 408 extends generally longitudinally between ends 404 and 406. The end member housing 408 also includes an inner wall portion 424 disposed radially inward of the outer wall portion 410 and terminating at a distal edge 426. An intermediate wall portion 428 extends between and connects the outer wall portion 410 and the inner wall portion 424 opposite its distal edge 426. The intermediate wall portion may have an inverted and slightly U-shaped cross-sectional profile, forming the distal extent 430 of the end member housing 408 along the end 404 of the end member having an open end 432. The inner wall portion 424 is disposed at an acute angle relative to the longitudinal axis AX, such that the inner wall portion of the end member housing 408 has an inner surface portion 434 with a truncated conical shape or configuration.

[0054] The end member housing 408 and the end member base 414 together at least partially define an end member chamber 436 within the end member assembly 400. In some cases, an inner support wall 438 may optionally be disposed within the end member chamber 436 and supported on or along one or more of the end member housing 408 and / or the end member base 414. If included, the inner support wall 438 may include an end wall portion 440 oriented transversely to the longitudinal axis AX and disposed toward the end 404 of the end member. The inner support wall 438 may also include an extension wall portion 442 extending from along the end wall portion 440 toward a distal edge 444 disposed along the end member housing 408 and / or the end member base 414. In some cases, the extension wall portion 442 (if provided) may be secured to or along the end member housing 408 and / or the end member base 414 in a suitable manner, such as by means of one or more flow material joints 446. One or more channels and / or openings 448 may be included on or along the extension wall portion 442 to allow fluid communication between the inner and outer portions of the end member chamber 436 of the inner support wall 438, such as to allow the inner and outer portions of the inner support wall 438 to operate fluidly as a substantially continuous volume. In some cases, the support column wall 450 may optionally extend from along the end member base 414 to the end wall portion 438 of the inner support wall 436, such as to help carry forces and / or loads from the end wall portion 440 to the end member base 414.

[0055] As described above, the end member can be secured to or along an associated structural member (such as, for example, the lower structural member LSC) in any suitable manner and by using any suitable combination of components. Similarly, the end cap assembly 500 can be secured to or along the end member assembly 400 in any suitable manner and by using any suitable combination of components. For example, a mounting hole 452 may optionally extend through the end wall portion 438. In such a case, a damper mount 454 may extend through the end cap assembly 500 and engage with the mounting hole 452. The damper mount 454 may be threadedly engaged with the end wall portion 438 such that the end cap assembly 500 and a portion of the flexible spring member 200 (e.g., mounting bead 216) can be secured to the inner surface portion 434 of the inner sidewall portion 424 of the end member housing 408 in a substantially fluid-tight arrangement. In a preferred arrangement, a portion of the damper mount 454 extends axially outward beyond the end cap assembly 500 and protrudes into the spring chamber 202. In such cases, any suitable type, kind, construction and / or configuration of bump buffer 456 may be received on buffer mount 454 and / or otherwise secured within spring chamber 202 of gas spring and gas damper assembly AS1.

[0056] The end member chamber 436 may be configured to be in fluid communication with the spring chamber 202, such that gas delivery between the spring chamber and the end member chamber can generate compressive gas damping during the extension and / or compression of the gas spring and gas damper assembly (e.g., gas spring and gas damper assembly AS1) according to the subject matter of this disclosure, as it undergoes dynamic use in operation. As discussed above, the end member housing 408 includes an open end 432 defined at least partially by an inner surface portion 434 of the inner sidewall portion 424, and the spring chamber 202 and the end member chamber 330 may be in fluid communication with each other across it via the end cap assembly 500, as discussed in more detail below.

[0057] Now for reference Figure 7 , Figure 7A and Figures 8 to 13 The end cap assembly 500 is shown to include an end cap body 502 and a cover plate 504, the cover plate being operatively fixed to or along the end cap body, such as, for example, by press-fit connection. The end cap body 502 includes an end cap wall 506 extending radially outward about and from an axis AX in a transverse relationship. The end cap wall 506 includes a surface portion 508 disposed along one side of the end cap body 502 and a surface portion 510 disposed along the other side of the end cap body 502. In a preferred arrangement, the surface portion 508 may be approximately planar and / or otherwise sized to adjoin the cover plate 504. The surface portion 510 may be disposed toward an end wall portion 440 of the inner support wall 438 of the end member assembly 400 and sized to adjoin the end wall portion. The end cap wall 506 also includes an outer peripheral surface portion 512, which is radially outward and extends axially between surface portions 508 and 510. In some cases, end cap wall 506 may include or otherwise at least partially define a bead seat 512' that may extend circumferentially around end cap body 502 and is sized to at least partially receive or otherwise adjacently engage the mounting bead 216 and / or bead wire 218 of flexible spring member 200.

[0058] It should be understood that the outer peripheral surface portion 512 may have any suitable size, shape, and / or configuration. For example, the outer peripheral surface portion may have a cross-sectional profile with any suitable number of linear and / or curved profile segments. Regardless of the shape and / or configuration of the end cap body 502 and its outer peripheral surface portion 512, it should be understood that, in the assembled state, the end cap assembly 500 will have a generally outermost cross-sectional dimension (e.g., diameter) extending through its extension, such as, for example, in Figure 11 The reference dimension CD1 is used to indicate this. Additionally, the end cap assembly 500 is operatively engaged with a portion of the flexible spring member 200 (e.g., mounting bead 216), such as, for example, on or along the outer peripheral surface portion 512.

[0059] In a preferred configuration, a substantially fluid-sealed joint is formed between the flexible spring member and at least the end cap body, thereby establishing a flexible spring member and end cap assembly FEA separate from the end member 300 and from the end member assembly 400. It should be understood that the substantially fluid-sealed joint between the flexible spring member 200 and the end cap body 502 can be formed at least partially in any suitable manner. In some cases, such a substantially fluid-sealed joint can be formed by using adhesives and / or sealing materials. In other cases, the mounting bead 216 can be permanently attached to or otherwise attached to one or more components of the end cap assembly 500, such as, for example, at least along the outer peripheral surface portion 512 of the end cap body 502. For example, a portion of the flexible spring member 200 (e.g., the mounting bead 216) can be adhered, vulcanized, cured, or otherwise permanently attached (i.e., inseparable without damage, destruction, or material alteration of at least one of the constituting materials and / or components) to the end cap assembly 500 or its surface portion (e.g., the outer peripheral surface portion 512), and this substantially fluid-sealed connection is achieved in... Figure 7A The middle part is represented by the dashed line JNT.

[0060] As discussed above, the end cap assembly 500 can be adapted to secure a portion of the flexible spring member 200 (e.g., mounting bead 216) to the end member assembly 400 in any manner that pushes it into abutment engagement with the inner sidewall portion 424 of the end member assembly 400 or along the end member assembly. As an example, a buffer mount 454 can be used to secure the end cap assembly to the end member assembly 400, as discussed above. In such cases, the end cap wall 506 may include a hole or channel 514 extending through the end cap body 502. The cover plate 504 may also include a hole or channel 516 extending therethrough, cooperating with the hole 514. In this way, the cover plate 504 can be positioned across a surface portion 508 of the end cap body 502, where holes 514 and 516 form a channel through the end cap assembly 500. In the assembled state, at least a portion of the buffer mount 454 may extend through holes 514 and 516 and engage end wall portion 438 or another similar feature, thereby securing the end cap assembly 500 and the end 208 of the flexible spring member 200 to or along the end member assembly 400. In some cases, the surface or shoulder (not numbered) of the buffer mount 454 may abutmently engage the cover plate 504, such as by pushing the cover plate and / or end cap body to engage with the end wall portion 440 of the inner support wall 438.

[0061] According to the subject matter of this disclosure, a gas spring and gas damper assembly includes one or more elongated gas damping channels fluidly connected between the spring chamber and one or more end member chambers (e.g., end member chamber 436) of the gas spring and gas damper assembly. Generally, the dimensions of the one or more elongated gas damping channels can be configured such that compressed gas flows in and out of the one or more elongated gas damping channels and / or is otherwise displaced within them. Thus, such compressed gas flow can generate compressed gas damping and / or other dynamic inputs acting on vibrations throughout the assembly and / or system. The differential pressure between the spring chamber and the one or more end member chambers includes gas flow along at least a portion of the length of the elongated gas damping channel. It should be understood that such movement of the compressed gas in and / or through the elongated gas damping channel can be used to dissipate kinetic energy acting on the assembly and / or system. In a preferred arrangement, such compressed gas damping may be configured or otherwise purposefully dissipated vibrations and / or have a specific predetermined natural frequency or other dynamic inputs within a specific predetermined frequency range.

[0062] It should be understood that the dimensions, size, and / or other configuration of the cross-sectional area and overall length of the elongated gas damping channel can be configured to generate a gas flow with sufficient mass and velocity to achieve the desired level of compressed gas damping. Additionally, in a preferred arrangement, the dimensions, size, and / or other configuration of the elongated gas damping channel can be configured such that one or more performance characteristics of the system, such as peak loss stiffness, occur at approximately a desired or target frequency or additionally within a desired or target frequency range. Non-limiting examples of a target frequency range may include inputs ranging from about 0.5 Hz to about 2 Hz and / or from about 6 Hz to about 14 Hz.

[0063] Additionally, as discussed above, the gas spring and gas damper assembly according to the subject matter of this disclosure may include combinations of features and / or components suitable for generating compressive gas damping at two or more predetermined or target frequencies or otherwise within two or more predetermined or target frequency ranges. For example, it should be understood that any combination of spring chambers, one or more end member chambers, one or more external damping chambers, one or more elongated gas damping channels, and / or any additional control devices may be used.

[0064] The dimensions, size, and / or other configuration of the combination of the cross-sectional area and overall length of the elongated gas damping channel can be configured to produce a gas flow with sufficient mass and velocity to achieve the desired level of compressed gas damping. Typically, gas spring and gas damper assemblies according to the subject matter of this disclosure may include an elongated gas damping channel having a total length at least (10) times the maximum dimension (actual size or diameter equivalent) of the cross-sectional shape of the elongated gas damping channel (e.g., the diameter of a circular channel). In a preferred arrangement, the total length of the elongated gas damping channel will be at least twenty (20) times the maximum dimension of the cross-sectional shape. In some cases, the total length of the elongated gas damping channel may be at least fifty (50) times the maximum dimension of the cross-sectional shape of the elongated gas damping channel.

[0065] It should be understood that the aforementioned maximum dimensions of the cross-sectional shape of the elongated gas damping channel can be either actual dimensions or theoretically equivalent dimensions. For example, the actual diameter of a circular channel, the large diameter of an elliptical channel, or the height or width of a rectangular channel can be used. For channels that are non-circular and / or irregularly shaped, the theoretically equivalent maximum dimensions can be used.

[0066] According to the subject matter of this disclosure, such elongated damping channels are disposed on or along the end cap assembly 500 of the gas spring and gas damper assembly AS1. The end cap body 502 includes an opening or port 518 extending into the end cap wall 506 and accessible along a surface portion 510. The cover plate 504 also includes an opening or port 520 extending through the cover plate and positioned in fluid communication with one or more features of the end cap body 502 in the assembled state. The end cap body 502 includes an elongated damping channel 522 at least partially formed within the end cap wall 506. In a preferred arrangement, the elongated damping channel 522 has a first end 524 configured to fluidly communicate with the opening 520 of the cover plate 504, and a second end 526 configured to fluidly communicate with the opening 518 in the end cap wall 506. To aid assembly and ensure that the first end 524 of the elongated damping channel 522 is assembled into fluid communication with the opening 520 of the cover plate 504, one or more indexing features may cooperatively engage the end cap body and the cover plate with each other. As a non-limiting example, a hole 528 in the cover plate 504 and a protrusion 530 formed along the end cap body 502 may be used. Alternatively or in an alternative embodiment, the end cap wall 506 may include an extension wall portion 532 that projects axially outward from along the surface portion 508 toward a distal edge (not identified) and extends around the periphery of the longitudinal axis AX. The cover plate 504 may be received and held within the extension wall portion 532 along the surface portion 508 such that the cover plate and the extension wall portion extend axially together. In some cases, a press-fit engagement between the cover plate and the extension wall may be used to at least partially secure the cover plate to or along the end cap body.

[0067] In a preferred arrangement, the total length of the elongated damping channel 522 may be at least about one and a half (1-1 / 2) times the outermost cross-sectional dimension of the end cap assembly 500 (such as, for example, represented by reference dimension CD1). In a preferred arrangement, the total length of the elongated damping channel is at least about two (2) times the outermost cross-sectional dimension of the end cap assembly 500, and more preferably at least about four (4) times the outermost cross-sectional dimension of the end cap assembly 500. In this way, an elongated damping channel whose total length is substantially greater than the outermost cross-sectional dimension of the end cap assembly can be used.

[0068] Using this configuration, the end cap assembly 500 can secure the flexible spring member 200 to or along the end member assembly 400, while generating compressed gas damping as compressed gas flows between the spring chamber 202 and the end member chamber 436 through the elongated damping channel 522 and the openings 518 and 520. The advantage of this configuration over other known configurations is that the components of the flexible spring member 200 and the end cap assembly 500, which are fixed together or otherwise permanently attached, can be secured relative to the end member assembly 400 in any rotational position or orientation without requiring indexing or other rotational alignment between the end member assembly 400 and the components of the flexible spring member 200 and the end cap assembly 500.

[0069] exist Figure 7 , Figure 7A and Figures 8 to 12 In the illustrated arrangement, the end cap wall 506 may include a channel surface 534 that at least partially defines an elongated damping channel 522. It should be understood that the channel surface 534 may have any suitable cross-sectional shape and / or profile. The elongated damping channel 522 is shown as having a helical configuration. Such a helical or similar configuration can be generated in any suitable manner. For example, the cross-sectional profile of the channel surface 534 may be oriented transversely to the axis AX and may be rotated substantially continuously about this axis, wherein the cross-sectional profile is radially displaced substantially continuously from the adjacent axis AX to form the helical configuration. In a preferred arrangement, this rotation of the cross-sectional profile of the channel surface 534 may occur in approximately a single plane, such that the helical configuration of the elongated damping channel 522 is positioned in a common plane oriented transversely to the longitudinal axis AX.

[0070] In some cases, the cross-sectional profile of the channel surface 534 may be open (i.e., not completely closed). In such cases, the corresponding elongated damping channel is open along one or more surface portions (e.g., surface portion 508) of the end cap body 502. For example, the cross-sectional profile of the channel surface 534 is shown as having an approximately U-shaped cross-sectional configuration. Thus, the elongated damping channel 522 is formed within the end cap body 502 as an open channel accessible along the surface portion 508. It should be understood that other constructions and / or arrangements may be used alternatively. When the cross-sectional profile of the channel surface 534 is open or otherwise not completely closed, the cover plate 504 extends across the surface portion 508 to substantially suppress or at least reduce the transport of compressed gas along the surface portion 508 between adjacent rings or other portions of the elongated damping channel 522. It should be understood that suppressing or at least reducing such undesirable compressed gas transport can promote the flow of compressed gas along the elongated damping channel 522 and thus provide improved gas damping performance. It should be understood that such undesirable compressed gas delivery can be suppressed or reduced in any suitable manner and by using any suitable components, features, and / or elements. As an example, a certain amount of sealing material and / or one or more sealing elements may be disposed between surface portions 508 and 536 of the cover plate 504 to form at least partially a substantially fluid-tight seal therebetween. As another example, a flow material joint may be formed between surface portion 508 of the end cap wall 506 and surface portion 536 of the cover plate. This sealing arrangement is... Figure 7A The dotted lines 538 together represent the central point.

[0071] Figure 14 Components of a gas spring and gas damper assembly AS1 undergoing an exemplary assembly process or method according to the subject matter of this disclosure are shown. As shown therein, a flexible spring member and end cap assembly FEA is provided, comprising a flexible spring member 200 and an end cap body 502 permanently attached to each other, as discussed above. The end member 300 may be fixed to or along the end 206 of the flexible spring member 200, such as by a coiled connection, wherein the outer peripheral wall portion 306 of the end member wall 302 is at least partially coiled or otherwise deformed around the mounting bead 214 of the flexible spring member 200, for example, Figure 14 The arrow CMP indicates this. The end cap body 502 is axially displaced into a position within the open end 432 of the end member 502, such that the end 208 of the flexible wall 204 is compressively captured between the outer peripheral surface portion 512 of the end cap body 400 and the inner wall portion 424 of the end member wall, such as, for example, in Figure 14The arrow AR1 indicates this. In some cases, the end cap body 502 may be axially displaced into the open end 432, such that the end cap body abuts against the end wall portion 440 of the end member. The end cap body 502 may be secured to or along the end member 400, such as by threading the buffer mount 454 to the end wall portion 440 and thereby capturing the end cap body between the buffer mount and the end wall portion of the end member 400, as indicated by arrow AR2. If a bump buffer is included, the bump buffer 456 may be receptively engaged to or along the buffer mount 454, as indicated by arrow AR3, for example.

[0072] As used herein with reference to certain features, elements, components, and / or structures, numerical ordinal numbers (e.g., first, second, third, fourth, etc.) may be used to indicate different individual features, elements, components, and / or structures among a plurality of others, or to otherwise identify certain features, elements, components, and / or structures, and do not imply any order or sequence unless expressly specified by the language of the claims. Furthermore, the terms “lateral,” etc., are interpreted broadly. For this reason, the term “lateral,” etc., may include a wide range of angular orientations, including but not limited to approximately perpendicular angular orientations. Additionally, the terms “circumferential,” “circumferentially,” etc., may be interpreted broadly, and they may include, but are not limited to, circular shapes and / or constructions. In this respect, the terms “circumferential,” “circumferentially,” etc., may be synonymous with terms such as “peripheral,” “outer periphery,” etc.

[0073] It should be recognized and understood that terms such as “able,” “can,” “may,” etc., should be interpreted as permissible rather than required. Therefore, any reference to items used with terms such as “able,” “can,” “may,” etc., should be interpreted as optional rather than required by the subject matter of this disclosure, unless otherwise specifically stated herein.

[0074] Furthermore, the phrase "flowing material joint," as used herein, can be interpreted to include any joint or connection in which a liquid or other flowable material (e.g., molten metal or a combination of molten metals) is arranged or otherwise presented between adjacent components to form a fixed and substantially fluid-impermeable connection therebetween. Examples of processes that can be used to form such flowing material joints include, but are not limited to, welding, brazing, and soldering processes. In such cases, one or more metallic materials and / or alloys may be used to form such flowing material joints, in addition to any material derived from the components themselves. Another example of a process that can be used to form flowing material joints includes applying, depositing, or otherwise presenting an adhesive between adjacent components to form a fixed and substantially fluid-impermeable connection therebetween. In such cases, it should be understood that any suitable adhesive material or combination of materials may be used, such as, for example, one-component and / or two-component epoxy resins.

[0075] Furthermore, the term "gas" as used herein refers to any gaseous or mist-like fluid in a broad sense. Most commonly, air is used as the working medium for gas spring devices such as those described herein, as well as suspension systems and other components. However, it should be understood that any suitable gaseous fluid can be used.

[0076] It should be recognized that the embodiments shown and described herein illustrate many different features and / or components, and no single embodiment is explicitly shown and described as including all such features and components. Therefore, it should be understood that the subject matter of this disclosure is intended to cover any and all combinations of the different features and components shown and described herein, and that any suitable arrangement of features and components may be used without limitation in any combination. Therefore, it should be clearly understood that, whether specifically embodied herein or not, any such combination of features and / or components is intended to be supported by the claims in this disclosure. To assist the Patent Office and any reader of this application and any resulting patent for interpreting the appended claims, the applicant does not intend for any claim or any element of the appended claims to invoke 35 U.SC112(f), unless the terms “means for…” or “steps for…” are expressly used in a particular claim.

[0077] Therefore, although the subject matter of this disclosure has been described with reference to the above embodiments and considerable emphasis has been placed on the structure and structured interrelationships between the component parts of the disclosed embodiments herein, it should be understood that other embodiments can be constructed and many changes can be made to the illustrated and described embodiments without departing from the principles of the invention. Clearly, modifications and alterations will be made to other aspects after reading and understanding the foregoing detailed descriptions. Therefore, it should be clearly understood that the above descriptive issues are to be interpreted merely as illustrative of the subject matter of this disclosure and not as limiting. For this reason, it is intended that the subject matter of this disclosure be understood to include all such variations and modifications.

Claims

1. A flexible spring member and end cap assembly (FEA), the flexible spring member and end cap assembly comprising: A flexible spring member (200) having a longitudinal axis (AX) and including a flexible wall (204) extending longitudinally between a first end and a second end and extending around the periphery of the longitudinal axis (AX) to at least partially define a spring chamber (202). An end cap body (502) comprising an end cap wall (506) oriented transversely to the longitudinal axis (AX), the end cap wall having a first surface portion (508) axially facing the spring chamber (202), a second surface portion (510) axially away from the spring chamber (202), an outer peripheral surface portion (512), an end cap port (518) extending through the end cap wall (506) and accessible from along the second surface portion (510), and an elongated gas damping channel (522) extending axially into the end cap wall (506) in a helical arrangement around the longitudinal axis (AX), the elongated gas damping channel (522) comprising a first channel end (526) configured to fluidly communicate with the end cap port (518), a second channel end (524), and an open cross-sectional profile within the end cap body (502), such that the elongated gas damping channel (522) opens along the first surface portion (508) of the end cap body (502); and, A cover plate (504) is received along the first surface portion (508) of the end cap body (502) and extends across the open cross-sectional profile, thereby substantially closing the elongated gas damping channel (522). The cover plate (504) includes a cover plate port (520) extending therethrough in fluid communication with the second channel end (524). The end cap body (502) is positioned along the second end of the flexible spring member (200), wherein the flexible wall (204) is permanently attached along the outer peripheral surface portion (512) of the end cap body (502) such that a substantially fluid-tight joint is formed between the flexible spring member (200) and the end cap body (502), thereby enabling the flexible spring member and the end cap assembly (FEA) to be held together in any rotational position relative to the associated end member assembly (400) without requiring rotational alignment between the flexible spring member and the end cap assembly (FEA) and the associated end member assembly (400).

2. The flexible spring member and end cap assembly (FEA) according to claim 1, wherein the end cap body (502) includes a bead seat (512') adjacent to the second surface portion (510) along the outer peripheral surface portion (512), and the flexible spring member (200) includes a mounting bead (216) along its second end, the mounting bead being permanently attached to the end cap body (502) along the bead seat (512').

3. The flexible spring member and end cap assembly (FEA) according to claim 1, wherein the end cap body (502) includes an extension wall portion (532) that projects axially outward from along the first surface portion (508) toward a distal edge and extends around the periphery of the longitudinal axis (AX), and the cover plate (504) is held within the extension wall portion (532) along the first surface portion (508) of the end cap body (502) such that the cover plate (504) and the extension wall portion (532) extend axially together.

4. The flex spring member and end cap assembly (FEA) of claim 3, wherein, The cover plate (504) and the extension wall portion (532) have a press-fit connection for at least partially securing the cover plate (504) to the end cap body (502).

5. The flexible spring member and end cap assembly (FEA) according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the end cap body (502) includes a body index feature (530) and the cover plate (504) includes a plate index feature (528) cooperating with the body index feature (530) such that the engagement of the plate index feature (528) and the body index feature (530) orients the cover plate (504) relative to the end cap body (502).

6. A gas spring and gas damper assembly (AS1), said gas spring and gas damper assembly comprising: Flexible spring member and end cap assembly (FEA) according to any one of claims 1 to 5; and A first end member (300) is operatively fixed to the first end of the flexible spring member (200) such that a substantially fluid-tight seal is formed therebetween.

7. The gas spring and gas damper assembly (AS1) according to claim 6 further includes a second end member, the second end member being configured to be spaced apart from the first end member (300) and operably engaging the second end of the flexible spring member (200) to form a substantially fluid-tight connection therewith, wherein the flexible spring member and end cap assembly (FEA) is fixed to the end member assembly (400) without requiring rotational indexing between the flexible spring member and end cap assembly (FEA) and the end member assembly (400).

8. The gas spring and gas damper assembly (AS1) according to claim 7, wherein the second end member includes an end member wall (408) that at least partially defines an end member chamber (436), the end member wall (408) including an inner wall portion (424) that at least partially defines an open end (432) of the end member chamber (436) disposed toward the spring chamber (202), the end cap body (502) being disposed within the open end (432) of the second end member such that the second end of the flexible spring member (200) is compressively captured between the outer peripheral surface portion (512) of the end cap body (502) and the inner wall portion (424) of the end member wall (408).

9. The gas spring and gas damper assembly (AS1) according to claim 8, wherein the inner sidewall portion (424) has a truncated conical shape extending toward the distal edge (426).

10. The gas spring and gas damper assembly (AS1) according to any one of claims 8 and 9, wherein the end member wall (408) of the second end member is a housing wall and the second end member includes an inner support wall (438), wherein an end wall portion (440) is radially spaced inward from the inner sidewall portion (424) of the housing wall such that the open end (432) of the end member chamber (436) is at least partially disposed between the inner sidewall portion (424) of the housing wall and the end wall portion (440) of the inner support wall (438).

11. The gas spring and gas damper assembly (AS1) of claim 10, wherein the second end of the end cap body (502) and the flexible spring member (200) extends into the open end (432) of the end member chamber (436), wherein the second surface portion (510) of the end cap body (502) is positioned along the end wall portion (440) of the inner support wall (438).

12. The gas spring and gas damper assembly (AS1) according to claim 10, wherein the end cap body (502) is fixed to the end wall portion (440) of the inner support wall (438).

13. A method for assembling a gas spring and a gas damper assembly (AS1), the method comprising: A flexible spring member (200) is provided, the flexible spring member having a longitudinal axis (AX) and including a flexible wall (204) having an end. An end cap body (502) is provided, the end cap body including an end cap wall (506) having a first surface portion (508), a second surface portion (510) facing opposite to the first surface portion (508), an outer peripheral surface portion (512), an end cap port (518) extending into the end cap wall (506) and accessible from along the second surface portion (510), and an elongated gas damping channel (522) extending axially into the end cap wall (506) in a helical arrangement about the longitudinal axis (AX), the elongated gas damping channel (522) including a first channel end (526) configured to fluidly communicate with the end cap port (518), a second channel end (524) and an open cross-sectional profile within the end cap body (502), such that the elongated gas damping channel (522) opens along the first surface portion (508) of the end cap body (502); The end of the flexible wall (204) is permanently attached to the outer peripheral surface portion (512) of the end cap body (502), thereby forming a flexible spring member and an end cap assembly (FEA) that at least partially defines the spring chamber (202). A cover plate (504) is supported along the first surface portion (508) of the end cap body (502) such that the cover plate (504) extends across the open cross-sectional profile, thereby substantially closing the elongated gas damping channel (522), the cover plate (504) including a cover plate port (520) extending therethrough in fluid communication with the second channel end (524). An end member assembly (400) is provided, the end member assembly including an end member wall (408) that at least partially defines an end member chamber (436); and, The flexible spring member and end cap assembly (FEA) are attached to the end member assembly (400) such that the spring chamber (202) and the end member chamber (436) are fluidly connected to each other through the elongated gas damping channel (522), wherein the flexible spring member and end cap assembly (FEA) are fixed to the end member assembly (400) without requiring rotational indexing between the flexible spring member and end cap assembly (FEA) and the end member assembly (400).

14. The method of claim 13, wherein providing the end cap body (502) includes providing an extension wall portion (532) that projects axially outward from along the first surface portion (508) toward a distal edge and extends around the periphery of the longitudinal axis (AX), and supporting the cover plate (504) includes receiving and retaining the cover plate (504) within the extension wall portion (532) along the first surface portion (508) of the end cap body (502), such that the cover plate (504) and the extension wall portion (532) extend axially together.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the cover plate (504) supported on the end cap body (502) has a press-fit engagement between the cover plate (504) and the extension wall portion (532) to at least partially secure the cover plate (504) to the end cap body (502).

16. The method of claim 15, wherein supporting the cover plate (504) on the end cap body (502) includes forming a seal (538) between the cover plate (504) and the end cap body (502).

17. The method according to claim 14, in, Supporting the cover plate (504) on the end cap body (502) includes engaging a body index feature (530) of the end cap body (502) with a plate index feature (528) of the cover plate, such that the engagement of the plate index feature (528) and the body index feature (530) orients the cover plate (504) relative to the end cap body (502).

18. The method according to any one of claims 14 to 17, wherein providing the end member assembly (400) includes providing a housing wall that at least partially defines an end member chamber (436), the housing wall including an inner wall portion (424) that at least partially defines an open end (432) of the end member chamber (436), the method further comprising positioning the end cap body (502) within the open end (432) of the end member assembly (400) such that the end of the flexible spring member (200) is compressively captured between the outer peripheral surface portion (512) of the end cap body (502) and the inner wall portion (424) of the end member wall (408), without requiring rotational indexing between the flexible spring member and the end cap assembly (FEA) and the end member assembly (400).

19. The method of claim 18, wherein providing the end member assembly (400) includes providing an inner support wall (438) disposed within the end member chamber (436), the inner support wall (438) including an end wall portion (440) radially spaced inward from the inner sidewall portion (424) of the outer casing wall, such that the open end (432) of the end member chamber (436) is at least partially disposed therebetween, and attaching the flexible spring member and end cap assembly (FEA) to the end member assembly (400) includes securing the end cap body (502) along the end wall portion (440) of the inner support wall (438).

20. The method according to any one of claims 14 to 17, further comprising providing a second end member and securing a second end of the flexible spring member (200) to the second end member to form a substantially fluid-tight seal therebetween.

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