Springs for motion assemblies and methods of

Abstract

The invention relates to a spring for a motion assembly and methods of making and using the same. The spring for a motion assembly includes: a body including a strip including: a base forming a first major surface; and a low friction material coupled to the substrate and forming a second major surface, where the body forms an annular portion oriented about the central axis, where the body has a pair of ends, where at least one of the pair of ends extends radially outward from the annular portion, where the low friction material is coupled to the substrate and forms a second major surface, where the low friction material is coupled to the substrate and forms the second major surface. The annular portion is adapted to extend around the first component and to provide a frictional interface with the first component along the second major surface when the first component is in motion, and wherein the at least one end is adapted to anchor the spring against the second component.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to springs and spring assemblies, and more specifically to motion components, including but not limited to vehicle doors.

[0002] Description of related technologies

[0003] Many vehicles use internal motion components to convert the motion generated by a user-operated handle to open the door; these are traditionally known as flush-handle door assemblies. Traditionally, a bearing is placed between a first component (e.g., the shaft connected to the user-operated handle) and a second component (e.g., the housing surrounding the shaft inside the door). Problems with these motion components can include ineffective torque or friction performance of the bearings, increased noise, roughness, or vibration, complex installation due to the large number of components, or the need for lubrication, which often results in a heavy, unstable door and increased maintenance costs due to the need to replenish grease or lubricant. Therefore, the industry needs to continue improving motion components, including but not limited to flush-handle door assemblies for vehicles. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to one aspect, the present invention provides a spring for a moving component, the spring comprising: a body including a strip, the strip including: a base forming a first main surface; and a low-friction material coupled to the base and forming a second main surface, wherein the body forms an annular portion oriented about a central axis, wherein the body has a pair of ends, wherein at least one of the pair of ends extends radially outward from the annular portion, wherein the annular portion is adapted to extend about a first component and provide a frictional interface with the first component along the second main surface when the first component is in motion, and wherein the at least one end is adapted to anchor the spring against a second component.

[0005] According to another aspect, the present invention provides a motion assembly comprising: a first component oriented downwardly along a central axis; a second component radially surrounding at least partially the first component about the central axis; and a spring radially disposed between the first component and the second component about the central axis, the spring including a body comprising: a substrate forming a first main surface; and a low-friction material coupled to the substrate and forming a second main surface, wherein the body forms an annular portion oriented about the central axis, wherein the body has a pair of ends, wherein at least one of the pair of ends extends radially outward from the annular portion, wherein the annular portion is adapted to extend about the first component and provide a frictional interface with the first component along the second main surface when the first component is in motion, and wherein the at least one end is adapted to anchor the spring against the second component.

[0006] According to another aspect, the present invention provides a method comprising: providing a first component oriented downward along a central axis; providing a second component radially surrounding at least partially the first component around the central axis; radially distributing a spring between the first component and the second component, the spring including a body oriented around the central axis, the body including: a substrate forming a first main surface; and a low-friction material coupled to the substrate and forming a second main surface, wherein the body forms an annular portion oriented around the central axis, wherein the body has a pair of ends, wherein at least one of the pair of ends extends radially outward from the annular portion; anchoring the at least one end of the spring against the second component; and moving the first component such that, when the first component is in motion, the annular portion provides a frictional interface with the first component. Attached Figure Description

[0007] This disclosure can be better understood by referring to the accompanying drawings, and many features and advantages of this disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0008] Figure 1 This includes step-by-step manufacturing processes for forming springs according to multiple implementation schemes.

[0009] Figure 2A Illustrations of materials that can be formed into springs according to multiple embodiments.

[0010] Figure 2B Illustrations of composite materials that can be formed into springs according to multiple embodiments.

[0011] Figure 2C Illustrations of composite materials that can be formed into springs according to multiple embodiments.

[0012] Figure 2D Illustrations of composite materials that can be formed into springs according to multiple embodiments.

[0013] Figure 2E Illustrations of composite materials that can be formed into springs according to multiple embodiments.

[0014] Figure 3A Illustrations including a top perspective view of a spring according to multiple embodiments.

[0015] Figure 3B This includes top-view illustrations of springs according to various embodiments.

[0016] Figure 3C Illustrations including side views of springs according to multiple embodiments.

[0017] Figure 3D This includes top-view illustrations of springs according to various embodiments.

[0018] Figure 3E Illustrations including side views of springs according to multiple embodiments.

[0019] Figure 4A The illustration includes a side view of a spring according to an embodiment described herein, the spring being used in a moving assembly according to one embodiment.

[0020] Figure 4B The illustration includes a cross-sectional side view of a spring according to an embodiment described herein, the spring being used in a moving assembly according to one embodiment.

[0021] Figure 4C The illustration includes a close-up cross-sectional side view of a spring according to an embodiment described herein, the spring being used in a moving assembly according to one embodiment.

[0022] The same reference numerals are used in different figures to indicate similar or identical items. Detailed Implementation

[0023] The following description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, is provided to aid in understanding the teachings disclosed herein. The following discussion will focus on specific implementations and schemes of these teachings. This focused discussion is provided to aid in the description of the teachings and should not be construed as a limitation on the scope or applicability of the teachings. However, other schemes may be used based on the disclosed teachings.

[0024] The terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a method, article, or apparatus that includes a list of features is not necessarily limited to those features, but may include other features not expressly listed or inherent to such a method, article, or apparatus. Furthermore, unless expressly stated to the contrary, “or” means inclusive or, not exclusive or. For example, conditions A or B are satisfied by either: A is true (or exists) and B is false (or does not exist); A is false (or does not exist) and B is true (or exists); and both A and B are true (or exist).

[0025] Furthermore, the terms "an" or "a" are used to describe the elements and components described herein. This is done merely for convenience and to give a general meaning regarding the scope of the invention. This description should be understood to include one, at least one, or the singular includes the plural and vice versa, unless explicitly stated otherwise. For example, when a single item is described herein, more than one item may be used instead of a single item. Similarly, in cases where more than one item is described herein, a single item may be used instead of the more than one item.

[0026] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. Materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and not limiting. To the extent not described herein, many details regarding specific materials and processing measures are conventional and can be found in textbooks and other sources within the field of spring assemblies or moving parts.

[0027] For illustrative purposes, Figure 1 The diagram includes a step-by-step manufacturing process 10 for forming a spring. The forming process 10 may include a first step 12 of providing a substrate, a second step 14 of covering the substrate with a low-friction layer to form a composite material, and a third step 16 of forming the composite material into a spring.

[0028] Figure 2AThe illustration includes material 1000, which may later be formed into a spring in the first step 12 of forming process 10. The spring may include a substrate 119. In one embodiment, substrate 119 may at least partially comprise a spring material. As defined herein, "spring material" is any material capable of applying a spring force to adjacent components. In one embodiment, substrate 119 may at least partially comprise a polymer. In one embodiment, substrate 119 may at least partially comprise ceramic. In one embodiment, substrate 119 may at least partially comprise a fibrous material. In one embodiment, substrate 119 may at least partially comprise a metal. According to certain embodiments, the metal may include iron, copper, titanium, tin, aluminum, alloys thereof, or may be another type of metal. More specifically, substrate 119 may at least partially comprise steel, such as stainless steel, carbon steel, or spring steel. For example, substrate 119 may at least partially comprise stainless steel. Stainless steel may be annealed, 1 / 4 hard, 1 / 2 hard, 3 / 4 hard, or fully hard stainless steel. Furthermore, the steel may include stainless steel containing chromium, nickel, or a combination thereof. In one embodiment, substrate 119 may include a woven mesh or expanded metal mesh. The woven mesh or expanded metal mesh may comprise metal or metal alloys, such as aluminum, steel, stainless steel, bronze, etc. Alternatively, the woven mesh may be a woven polymer mesh. In an alternative embodiment, the substrate 119 may not include a mesh or grid. Furthermore, the substrate 119 may comprise a Vickers cone hardness VPN, which may be ≥350, such as ≥375, ≥400, ≥425, or ≥450. The VPN may also be ≤500, ≤475, or ≤450. The VPN may also be in a range between and include any VPN values ​​described herein. On the other hand, the substrate 119 may be treated to improve its corrosion resistance. Specifically, the substrate 119 may be passivated. For example, the substrate 119 may be passivated according to ASTM standard A967. The substrate 119 may be formed by at least one of chamfering, turning, reaming, forging, extrusion, molding, sintering, rolling, or casting.

[0029] The thickness Ts of the substrate 119 can be between about 10 micrometers and about 1500 micrometers, such as between about 50 micrometers and about 1000 micrometers, such as between about 100 micrometers and about 750 micrometers, such as between about 350 micrometers and about 650 micrometers. In several embodiments, the thickness Ts of the substrate 119 can be between about 700 micrometers and 800 micrometers. In several embodiments, the thickness Ts of the substrate 119 can be between about 950 micrometers and 1050 micrometers. It should also be understood that the thickness Ts of the substrate 119 can be any value between any of the above minimum and maximum values. The thickness of the substrate 119 can be uniform, that is, the thickness at a first location of the substrate 119 can be equal to the thickness along a second location thereafter. The thickness of the substrate 119 can be non-uniform, that is, the thickness at a first location of the substrate 119 can be different from the thickness along a second location thereafter.

[0030] Figure 2B The illustration includes a composite material 1001 that can be formed according to the first step 12 and the second step 14 of the forming process 10. For illustrative purposes, Figure 2B The layer-by-layer configuration of the composite material 1001 of the spring is shown. In several embodiments, the composite material 1001 may include a substrate 119 (as described above) and a low-friction layer 104 coupled to or covering the substrate 119. In a more specific embodiment, the composite material 1001 may include a substrate 119 and a plurality of low-friction layers 104 covering the substrate 119. Figure 2B As shown, the low-friction layer 104 may be coupled to at least a portion of the substrate 119. In one embodiment, the low-friction layer 104 may be coupled to a surface of the substrate 119 to form an interface with another surface of another component. The low-friction layer 104 may be coupled to a radially inner surface of the substrate 119. Alternatively, the low-friction layer 104 may be coupled to a radially outer surface of the substrate 119.

[0031] In several embodiments, the low-friction layer 104 may include a low-friction material. The low-friction material may include, for example, polymers such as polyketones, polyaramids, polyphenylene sulfide, polyethersulfone, polyphenylene sulfone, polyamide-imide, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, fluoropolymers, polybenzimidazole, polyacetal, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyimide (PI), polyetherimide, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyethylene (PE), polysulfone, polyamide (PA), polyphenylene ether, polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyurethane, polyester, liquid crystal polymer (LCP), or any combination thereof. In one example, the low-friction layer 104 includes polyketones such as polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyetherketone, polyetherketoneketone, polyetherketoneetherketone, derivatives thereof, or combinations thereof. In an additional example, the low-friction layer 104 may include ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene. In another example, the low-friction layer 104 may comprise a fluoropolymer, including fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), perfluoroalkoxy (PFA), a terpolymer of tetrafluoroethylene, hexafluoropropylene, and vinylidene fluoride (THV), polychlorotrifluoroethylene (PCTFE), ethylene tetrafluoroethylene copolymer (ETFE), or ethylene trifluorochloroethylene copolymer (ECTFE). The low-friction layer 104 may comprise a solid-based material, including lithium soap, graphite, boron nitride, molybdenum disulfide, tungsten disulfide, polytetrafluoroethylene, carbon nitride, tungsten carbide or diamond-like carbon, metals (such as aluminum, zinc, copper, magnesium, tin, titanium, tungsten, iron, bronze, steel, spring steel, stainless steel), metal alloys (containing the listed metals), anodized metals (containing the listed metals), or any combination thereof. Depending on the specific embodiment, a fluoropolymer may be used. In one embodiment, the low-friction layer 104 may comprise a woven mesh or an expanded metal mesh. The woven mesh or expanded metal mesh may comprise metal or metal alloys, such as aluminum, steel, stainless steel, bronze, etc. Alternatively, the woven mesh may be a woven polymer mesh. In an alternative embodiment, the low-friction layer 104 may not include a mesh or grid.

[0032] In several embodiments, the low-friction layer 104 may further include fillers comprising glass, carbon fiber, silicon, PEEK, aromatic polyester, carbon particles, bronze, fluoropolymers, thermoplastic fillers, alumina, polyamide-imide (PAI), PPS, polyphenylene sulfone (PPSO2), LCP, aromatic polyester, molybdenum disulfide, tungsten disulfide, graphite, graphene, expanded graphite, boron nitride, talc, calcium fluoride, or any combination thereof. Additionally, fillers may include alumina, silicon dioxide, titanium dioxide, calcium fluoride, boron nitride, mica, wollastonite, silicon carbide, silicon nitride, zirconium oxide, carbon black, pigments, or any combination thereof. Fillers may be in the form of beads, fibers, powders, meshes, or any combination thereof. The filler may be at least 10% by weight based on the total weight of the low-friction layer, such as at least 15% by weight, 20% by weight, 25% by weight, or even 30% by weight.

[0033] In some embodiments, the low-friction layer 104 may include a damping material. This damping material may include natural polyisoprene, synthetic polyisoprene, polybutadiene, chloroprene rubber, butyl rubber, styrene-butadiene rubber, nitrile rubber, ethylene propylene, rubber, chloroprene rubber, polyacrylic rubber, silicone rubber, fluorosilicone rubber, fluorinated elastomers, perfluoroelastomers, polyether block amides, bitumen, polyethylene, chlorosulfonated polyethylene, ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), EVA foam, low-density polyethylene foam, nitrile rubber foam, polychloroprene foam, polyimide foam, polypropylene foam, polyurethane foam, polystyrene foam, polyvinyl chloride foam, silicone foam, foamed rubber, polyurethane foam, XPS foam, epoxy foam, phenolic foam, or any combination thereof. The damping layer 104 may include a solid-based material, including lithium soap, latex, graphite, boron nitride, molybdenum disulfide, tungsten disulfide, polytetrafluoroethylene, carbon nitride, tungsten carbide or diamond-like carbon, metals (such as aluminum, zinc, copper, magnesium, tin, platinum, titanium, tungsten, iron, bronze, steel, spring steel, stainless steel), metal alloys (containing the listed metals), anodized metals (containing the listed metals), or any combination thereof.

[0034] In one embodiment, the thickness T of the low-friction layer 104 SL The thickness T can be between about 1 micrometer and about 500 micrometers, such as between about 10 micrometers and about 350 micrometers, such as between about 30 micrometers and about 300 micrometers, such as between about 40 micrometers and about 250 micrometers. In several embodiments, the thickness T of the low-friction layer 104 is... SL It can be between approximately 50 micrometers and 300 micrometers. It should also be understood that the thickness T of the low-friction layer 104... SLThe value can be any value between the minimum and maximum values ​​mentioned above. The thickness of the low-friction layer 104 can be uniform, that is, the thickness of the low-friction layer 104 at a first location can be equal to the thickness at a second location thereafter. The thickness of the low-friction layer 104 can be non-uniform, that is, the thickness of the low-friction layer 104 at a first location can be different from the thickness at a second location thereafter. It is understood that the thicknesses of different low-friction layers 104 can be different. The low-friction layer 104 can cover one main surface of the substrate 119 shown, or cover two main surfaces. The substrate 119 can be at least partially encapsulated by the low-friction layer 104. That is, the low-friction layer 104 can cover at least a portion of the substrate 119.

[0035] Figure 2C The illustration includes an alternative embodiment of a composite material 1002 that can be formed into a spring according to the first step 12 and the second step 14 of the forming process 10, wherein composite material 1002 replaces composite material 1001. For illustrative purposes, Figure 2C The layer-by-layer configuration of the composite material 1002 of the spring is shown. According to this specific embodiment, the composite material 1002 can be similar to... Figure 2B The composite material 1001 differs in that the composite material 1002 may also include at least one adhesive layer 121 and a low-friction layer 104, the adhesive layer being able to couple the low-friction layer 104 to the substrate 119. In another alternative embodiment, the substrate 119, as a solid component, a woven mesh, or an expanded metal mesh, may be embedded between the at least one adhesive layer 121 included between the low-friction layer 104 and the substrate 119.

[0036] The adhesive layer 121 may comprise any known adhesive material commonly used in the field of springs, including but not limited to fluoropolymers, epoxy resins, polyimide resins, polyether / polyamide copolymers, ethylene vinyl acetate, ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE), ETFE copolymers, perfluoroalkoxy (PFA), or any combination thereof. Additionally, the adhesive may comprise at least one functional group selected from -C=O, -COR, -COH, -COOH, -COOR, -CF2=CF-OR, or any combination thereof, wherein R is a cyclic or linear organic group containing 1 to 20 carbon atoms. Furthermore, the adhesive may comprise copolymers.

[0037] (Functional or non-functional) filler particles may be added to the binder layer 121, such as carbon fillers, carbon fibers, carbon particles, graphite, metal fillers such as bronze, aluminum and other metals and their alloys, metal oxide fillers, metal-coated carbon fillers, metal-coated polymer fillers, or any combination thereof.

[0038] In one embodiment, the hot melt adhesive may have a melting temperature not exceeding 250°C, such as not exceeding 220°C. In another embodiment, the adhesive may decompose at temperatures above 200°C, such as above 220°C. In yet another embodiment, the melting temperature of the hot melt adhesive may be above 250°C or even above 300°C. The thickness T of the adhesive layer 121 AL The thickness can be between about 1 micrometer and about 80 micrometers, such as between about 10 micrometers and about 50 micrometers, such as between about 20 micrometers and about 40 micrometers. In several embodiments, the thickness T of the adhesive layer 121 is... AL The thickness can be between approximately 3 micrometers and 20 micrometers. In several embodiments, the thickness T of the adhesive layer 121 is... AL It can be between approximately 10 micrometers and 60 micrometers. It should also be understood that the thickness T of adhesive layer 121... AL The thickness can be any value between the minimum and maximum values ​​mentioned above. The thickness of the adhesive layer 121 can be uniform, that is, the thickness of the adhesive layer 121 at the first location can be equal to the thickness at the second location along it. The thickness of the adhesive layer 121 can be non-uniform, that is, the thickness of the adhesive layer 121 at the first location can be different from the thickness at the second location along it.

[0039] Figure 2D The illustration includes an alternative embodiment of a composite material 1003 formed according to the first step 12 and the second step 14 of molding process 10, wherein composite material 1003 replaces composite materials 1001 and 1002. For illustrative purposes, Figure 2D The layer-by-layer configuration of the composite material 1003 for the spring is shown. According to this specific embodiment, the composite material 1003 can be similar to... Figure 2C The composite material 1002 differs in that the composite material 1003 may also include at least one anti-corrosion layer 103 and 105, and a corrosion-resistant coating 125, which may include an tackifier layer 127 and an epoxy resin layer 129, which may be coupled to the substrate 119 and the low-friction layer 104.

[0040] The substrate 119 may be coated with anti-corrosion layers 103 and 105, which include anti-corrosion materials to prevent the composite material 1003 from being corroded prior to processing. Additionally, a functional layer 107 may be applied to layer 103. The thickness of each of layers 103, 105, and 107 may be from about 1 micrometer to 50 micrometers, such as from about 7 micrometers to 15 micrometers. Layers 103 and 105 may include anti-corrosion materials or nano-ceramic layers, including phosphates of zinc, iron, and manganese, or any combination thereof. Furthermore, layers 103 and 105 may include anti-corrosion materials including passivated surfaces, commercially available zinc (mechanical / electroplated) coatings, or zinc-nickel coatings, or any combination thereof. Layer 107 may include functional silanes, nanoscale silane primers, hydrolyzed silanes, organosilane tackifiers, or solvent / water-based silane primers. Anti-corrosion layers 103 and 105 may be removed or retained during processing.

[0041] As described above, composite material 1003 may also include a corrosion-resistant coating 125. The thickness of the corrosion-resistant coating 125 may be from about 1 micrometer to 50 micrometers, such as from about 5 micrometers to 20 micrometers, and such as from about 7 micrometers to 15 micrometers. The corrosion-resistant coating 125 may include a tackifier layer 127 and an epoxy resin layer 129. The tackifier layer 127 may include a corrosion-resistant material or a nano-ceramic layer, which includes phosphates of zinc, iron, manganese, and tin, or any combination thereof. The tackifier layer 127 may include a corrosion-resistant material, which includes functional silanes, nanoscale silane undercoats, hydrolyzed silanes, organosilane tackifiers, solvent / water-based silane primers, chlorinated polyolefins, passivated surfaces, commercially available zinc (mechanical / electroplated) coatings or zinc-nickel coatings, or any combination thereof. The tackifier layer 127 may be applied by spraying, electrophoretic coating, dip spin coating, electrostatic coating, flow coating, roll coating, doctor blade coating, roll coating, etc.

[0042] The epoxy resin layer 129 may be a corrosion-resistant material, including thermosetting epoxy resin, UV-curing epoxy resin, IR-curing epoxy resin, electron beam-curing epoxy resin, radiation-curing epoxy resin, or air-curing epoxy resin. Furthermore, the epoxy resin layer 129 may include a corrosion-resistant material including polyglycidyl ether, diglycidyl ether, bisphenol A, bisphenol F, ethylene oxide, oxadiene, ethylene oxide, 1,2-epoxypropane, 2-methylethylene oxide, 9,10-epoxy-9,10-dihydroanthracene, or any combination thereof. The epoxy resin layer 129 may also include a hardener. The curing agent may include amines, acid anhydrides, phenolic curing agents such as phenolic poly[N-(4-hydroxyphenyl)maleimide] (PHPMI), methylformaldehyde, aliphatic amine compounds, polycarbonate anhydrides, polyacrylates, isocyanates, encapsulated polyisocyanates, boron trifluoride amine complexes, chromium-based curing agents such as chromium, polyamides, or any combination thereof. Typically, acid anhydrides may conform to the formula RC=OOC=O-R', where R may be CXHYXZAU as described above. Amines may include aliphatic amines such as monoethylamine, diethylenetriamine, triethylenetetramine, etc., alicyclic amines, aromatic amines such as cyclic aliphatic amines, alicyclic amines, amides, polyamides, dicyandiamide, imidazole derivatives, etc., or any combination thereof. Typically, amines may be primary, secondary, or tertiary amines conforming to the formula R1R2R3N, where R may be CXHYXZAU as described above. In one embodiment, the epoxy resin layer 129 may include fillers to improve conductivity, such as carbon fillers, carbon fibers, carbon particles, graphite, metal fillers such as bronze, aluminum, and other metals and their alloys, metal oxide fillers, metal-coated carbon fillers, metal-coated polymer fillers, or any combination thereof. Conductive fillers allow current to pass through the epoxy resin coating and can increase the conductivity of the composite material compared to a composite without conductive fillers. In one embodiment, the epoxy resin layer 129 can be applied by spraying, electrophoretic coating, dip spin coating, electrostatic coating, flow coating, roll coating, doctor blade coating, roll coating, etc. Alternatively, the epoxy resin layer 129 can be cured by methods such as thermosetting, UV curing, IR curing, electron beam curing, radiation curing, or any combination thereof. Preferably, curing can be achieved without raising the temperature of the component above the decomposition temperature of any of the low-friction layer 104, adhesive layer 121, substrate 119, or tackifier layer 127. Therefore, the epoxy resin can be cured at temperatures below about 250°C, or even below about 200°C.

[0043] Figure 2EThe illustration includes an alternative embodiment of a composite material 1004 that can be formed according to the first step 12 and the second step 14 of the molding process 10, wherein composite material 1004 replaces composite materials 1001, 1002, and 1003. According to this specific embodiment, composite material 1004 can be similar to... Figure 2C The composite material 1002 differs in that it may include a substrate 119 and a plurality of low-friction layers 104, 104' coupled to the substrate 119 via a plurality of adhesive layers 121, 121'. It should be understood that Figure 2D Any of the intermediate layers (i.e., anti-corrosion layers 103, 105, and 107, or corrosion-resistant layer 125 which may include tackifier layer 127 and / or epoxy resin layer 129) of the composite material 1001 shown may be included in any orientation or by stacking. Figure 2E Between any of the layers shown.

[0044] In several embodiments, composite materials 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004 may have a specific thickness T. B According to certain implementation schemes, the thickness T of composite materials 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004 is... B It can be at least about 0.1 mm, or at least about 0.2 mm, or at least about 0.5 mm, or at least about 0.8 mm, or even at least about 1.5 mm. According to other embodiments, the T of composite materials 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004... B It can be no greater than about 2 mm, such as no greater than about 1.5 mm or even no greater than about 1.0 mm. According to certain embodiments, the thickness T of composite materials 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004... B It can be at least about 0.1 mm and no more than 1 mm. It should be understood that the thickness T of composite materials 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004... B It can be within a range between any of the aforementioned minimum and maximum values. It should also be understood that the thickness T of composite materials 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004... B It can be any value between the minimum and maximum values ​​mentioned above. Alternatively, it can be understood as the thickness T of composite materials 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004. B It can vary along its circumference. Alternatively, it can be understood that the thickness T of composite materials 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004... B It can vary along its circumference and can vary between multiple materials or composite materials.

[0045] In one implementation scheme, Figure 1In step 14, any layer of the composite materials 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004 described above can be individually rolled and peeled off to bond them together under pressure, at elevated temperatures (by hot pressing or cold pressing, or by hot rolling or cold rolling), by adhesives, or by any combination thereof. Any layer of the composite materials 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004 described above can be laminated together such that they at least partially overlap each other. Any layer of the composite materials 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004 described above can be applied together using coating techniques such as, for example, physical deposition or vapor deposition, spraying, electroplating, powder coating, or by other chemical or electrochemical techniques. In one specific embodiment, the low-friction layer 104 can be applied by a roll-to-roll coating process including, for example, extrusion coating. The low-friction layer 104 can be heated to a molten or semi-molten state and extruded onto the main surface of the substrate 119 through a slotted die. In one embodiment, composite materials 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004 may be a single, integral strip of material.

[0046] In other implementation schemes, Figure 1 In step 14, any layer on the composite materials 1001, 1002, 1003, 1004 as described above can be applied by coating techniques such as physical deposition or vapor deposition, spraying, electroplating, powder coating, or by other chemical or electrochemical techniques. In one specific embodiment, the low-friction layer 104 can be applied by a roll-to-roll coating process, including, for example, extrusion coating. The low-friction layer 104 can be heated to a molten or semi-molten state and extruded onto the main surface of the substrate 119 through a slotted die. In another embodiment, the low-friction layer 104 can be cast or molded.

[0047] In one embodiment, a molten adhesive layer 121 may be used to bond the low-friction layer 104 or any other layer to the substrate 119 to form a laminate. In one embodiment, any of the intermediary or protruding layers on the composite materials 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004 may form an intermediate material, such as a laminate. The intermediate material may be cut into strips that can form springs. Cutting the intermediate material may include using a die, pressing, stamping, sawing, or may be machined in various ways. Cutting the intermediate material may produce cut edges that include the exposed portion of the substrate 119.

[0048] In one implementation scheme, Figure 1In the third step 16, the strip (formed from composite materials 1001, 1002, 1003, 1004) can be formed into a spring by manipulating the ends of the strip. The spring can be formed by molding, cutting, pressing, stamping, sawing, rolling, flanging, deep drawing, bending, rolling, molding, machining, or by various other methods. After the spring is formed, it can be cleaned to remove any lubricants and oils used in the forming and molding processes. Additionally, cleaning can prepare the exposed surfaces of the load-bearing spring substrate for coating. Cleaning can include chemical cleaning using solvents and / or mechanical cleaning, such as ultrasonic cleaning.

[0049] In several implementation schemes, Figure 1 Following step 14, composite materials 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004 may be strips. In several embodiments, the strips may form the body of the spring as described below. In several embodiments, the body may be polygonal (e.g., rectangular, square), arc-shaped (e.g., circular, elliptical), or its cross-section at at least one point along its length may be keystone-shaped. In several embodiments, the thickness of the resulting spring strip and body may be the same as the thickness T of composite materials 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004 as described above. B same.

[0050] In several implementations, the spring obtained from the bar may have a specific length L of the material used. B The material is later formed into a body as described below, thereby forming the spring obtained from the strip. According to certain embodiments, the length L of the composite materials 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004 is... B It can be at least about 0.1 mm, or at least about 1 mm, or at least about 25 mm, or at least about 50 mm, or even at least about 60 mm. According to other embodiments, the length L of composite materials 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004... B It may not exceed approximately 200 mm, such as not exceeding approximately 100 mm or even not exceeding approximately 75 mm. It should be understood that the length L of composite materials 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004... B It can be within a range between any of the aforementioned minimum and maximum values. It should also be understood that the length L of composite materials 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004... B It can be any value between the minimum and maximum values ​​mentioned above. Alternatively, it can be understood as the length L of composite materials 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004. B It can vary along its circumference. Alternatively, it can be understood that the length L of composite materials 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004... BIt can vary along its circumference and can vary between multiple materials or composite materials.

[0051] In several implementation schemes, Figure 1 After step 14, composite materials 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004 may have a specific width W of the material used. B The material is later formed into a body as described below, thereby forming the spring obtained from the strip. According to certain embodiments, the width W of composite materials 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004... B It can be at least about 0.1 mm, or at least about 0.2 mm, or at least about 0.5 mm, or at least about 0.8 mm, or even at least about 1.5 mm. According to other embodiments, the width W of composite materials 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004... B It may not exceed approximately 10 mm, such as not exceeding approximately 5 mm or even not exceeding approximately 2 mm. It should be understood that the width W of composite materials 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004... B It can be within a range between any of the aforementioned minimum and maximum values. It should also be understood that the width W of composite materials 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004... B It can be any value between the minimum and maximum values ​​mentioned above. Alternatively, it can be understood that the width W of composite materials 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004... B It can vary along its circumference. It can also be understood that the width W of composite materials 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004... B It can vary along its circumference and can vary between multiple materials or composite materials.

[0052] In one embodiment, the length L of composite materials 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004 is... B This can be the maximum size of the spring. In one specific implementation, the thickness T... B Not greater than width W B For example, W B It can be at least 1.0T. B At least 1.5T B At least 2T B At least 3T B At least 4T B At least 5T B At least 10T B Or at least 25T B In another implementation, T B Not less than 0.001W B Not less than 0.01W B or not less than 0.1W BIn another implementation, the width W B Not greater than length L B For example, L B It can be at least 1.0W B At least 1.5W B At least 20,000 B At least 50,000 or at least 100,000 B At least 25W B Or at least 100W B In another implementation, L B No more than 1000W B or no more than 500W B .

[0053] Figure 3A The illustration includes a top perspective view of a spring 300 formed from composite material strips 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004 as described above, according to multiple embodiments. Figure 3B The illustration includes a top view of a spring 300 formed from composite material strips 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004 as described above, according to multiple embodiments. Figure 3C The illustration includes a side view of a spring 300 formed from composite materials 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004 as described above, according to multiple embodiments. Figure 3D The illustration includes a top perspective view of a spring 300 formed from composite material strips 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004 as described above, according to multiple embodiments. Figure 3E This illustration includes a side view of a spring 300 formed from composite materials 1001, 1002, 1003, and 1004 as described above, according to multiple embodiments. Figures 3A to 3EAs shown, in several embodiments, the spring 300 may include a body 302. The body 302 may be formed from a strip as described above, which may be bent into an arc shape about a central axis 390. The spring 300 and / or the body 302 may have a first axial end 320 and a second axial end 322, which are separated from the width of the strip as described above. The spring 300 and / or the body 302 may have an outer surface (or a first main surface) 332 and an inner surface (or a second main surface) 330 as opposing surfaces separating the thickness of the strip as described above. In several embodiments, the inner surface (or the second main surface) 330 of the spring 300 and / or the body 302 may have a low-friction layer conforming to the shape of the body 302, wherein a substrate forms the outer surface (or the first main surface) 332, such as being formed from composite materials 1001, 1002, 1003, 1004 as described above. Alternatively or otherwise, the outer surface (or first main surface) 332 of the spring 300 may have a low-friction layer conforming to the shape of the body 302, wherein a substrate forms an inner surface (or second main surface) 330, such as formed of composite materials 1001, 1002, 1003, 1004 as described above. In other embodiments, the low-friction layer may be laminated onto both surfaces 330, 332 of the spring 300 and / or the body 302.

[0054] In several implementation schemes, such as Figures 3A to 3EAs shown, the spring 300 and / or body 302 may include an annular portion 304. The annular portion 304 may be defined as a rotation of the body 302 about a central axis 390 of at least 360 degrees (e.g., a coil). In various embodiments, the annular portion 304 may include multiple at least partial coils of the body 302 about the central axis 390, such as at least 390 degrees, such as at least 420 degrees, such as at least 450 degrees, such as at least 480 degrees, such as at least 510 degrees, such as at least 540 degrees, such as at least 570 degrees, such as at least 600 degrees, such as at least 630 degrees, such as at least 660 degrees, such as at least 690 degrees, such as at least 720 degrees (i.e., 2 coils), such as at least 1080 degrees (i.e., 3 coils), such as at least 1440 degrees (i.e., 4 coils), or even greater. In various embodiments, as shown, the annular portion 304 may include at least one or more coils extending axially downward along the central axis 390 to form a helix as shown. In several embodiments, the annular portion 304 of the body 302 may include at least one coil, the average helix angle of which is at least 5 degrees, at least 10 degrees, at least 15 degrees, at least 20 degrees, at least 25 degrees, at least 30 degrees, at least 35 degrees, at least 40 degrees, at least 45 degrees, at least 50 degrees, at least 55 degrees, at least 60 degrees, at least 65 degrees, at least 70 degrees, or at least 75 degrees. In several embodiments, the annular portion 304 has a cross-section that is at least partially straight or polygonal along the central axis 390. In several embodiments, the annular portion 304 may have a cross-section that is at least partially arcuate (e.g., circular, elliptical) along the central axis 390.

[0055] In several embodiments, the spring 300 may cover or surround the first component, as described in further detail below. In several embodiments, the spring 300 may cover the first component at least 360 degrees around the circumference of the first component and the annular portion 304. In several embodiments, the spring 300 may cover the first component by at least 90 degrees, such as at least 120 degrees, such as at least 150 degrees, such as at least 180 degrees, such as at least 210 degrees, such as at least 240 degrees, such as at least 270 degrees, such as at least 300 degrees, such as at least 330 degrees, such as at least 360 degrees, such as at least 390 degrees, such as at least 420 degrees, such as at least 450 degrees, such as at least 480 degrees, such as at least 510 degrees, such as at least 540 degrees, such as at least 570 degrees, such as at least 600 degrees, such as at least 630 degrees, such as at least 660 degrees, such as at least 690 degrees, such as at least 720 degrees (i.e., 2 coils), such as at least 1080 degrees (i.e., 3 coils), such as at least 1440 degrees (i.e., 4 coils), or even greater degrees. In several embodiments, the spring 300 may cover the first component around the circumference of the first component and the annular portion 304 by an angle not exceeding 345 degrees, such as not exceeding 300 degrees, such as not exceeding 270 degrees, such as not exceeding 240 degrees, such as not exceeding 210 degrees, such as not exceeding 180 degrees, such as not exceeding 150 degrees, such as not exceeding 119 degrees. In several embodiments, the low-friction layer of the spring 300 and / or the body 302 may contact or be directly adjacent to the first component, such that it provides a frictional interface with the first component when the first component moves or moves, as explained in further detail below.

[0056] In several implementation schemes, such as Figures 3A to 3E As shown, the spring 300 and / or the body 302 may have multiple ends, including a first end 334 and a second end 336. In several embodiments, such as Figures 3A to 3C As shown, the spring 300 and / or the body 302 may have multiple ends, including a first end 334 and a second end 336, both of which extend radially outward from the annular portion 304. Alternatively, in several embodiments, such as Figures 3D to 3E As shown, the spring 300 and / or the body 302 may have multiple ends, wherein a first end 334 extends radially outward from the annular portion 304 and a second end 336 terminates within the annular portion 304.

[0057] In such Figure 3A and Figure 3DIn the various embodiments shown, the spring 300 may have an outer radius OR from its central axis 390 to its radially outermost ends 334, 336, and OR may be ≥0.5 mm, such as ≥1 mm, ≥5 mm, ≥10 mm, ≥15 mm, or ≥20 mm. OR may be ≤45 mm, such as ≤40 mm, such as ≤35 mm, such as ≤30 mm, ≤20 mm, ≤15 mm, ≤10 mm, or ≤5 mm. In various embodiments, the outer radius OR of the spring 300 may be in the range of at least about 1 mm to no more than about 10 mm. It should be understood that the outer radius OR of the spring 300 may be in the range between any of the aforementioned minimum and maximum values. It should also be understood that the outer radius OR of the spring 300 may be any value between any of the aforementioned minimum and maximum values. It can also be understood that the outer radius OR of the spring 300 may vary along its circumference and may vary among various springs.

[0058] In such Figure 3A and Figure 3D In the various embodiments shown, the spring 300 may have an inner radius IR from the central axis 390 to the inner surface 330 of the annular portion 304, and IR may be ≥1 mm, such as ≥5 mm, ≥7.5 mm, ≥10 mm, ≥15 mm, or ≥20 mm. The inner radius IR may be ≤20 mm, such as ≤15 mm, ≤10 mm, ≤7.5 mm, ≤5 mm, or ≤1 mm. In various embodiments, the inner radius IR of the spring 300 may be in the range of at least about 1 mm to no more than about 10 mm. It should be understood that the inner radius IR of the spring 300 may be in the range between any of the aforementioned minimum and maximum values. It should also be understood that the inner radius IR of the spring 300 may be any value between any of the aforementioned minimum and maximum values. It can also be understood that the inner radius IR of the spring 300 may vary along its circumference and may vary among various springs.

[0059] In such Figure 3C and Figure 3EIn the various embodiments shown, the spring 300 may have a length L measured between the first axial end 320 and the second end 322. The length L may be ≥1 mm, such as ≥5 mm, ≥7.5 mm, ≥10 mm, ≥15 mm, or ≥20 mm. The length L may be ≤20 mm, such as ≤15 mm, ≤10 mm, ≤7.5 mm, ≤5 mm, or ≤1 mm. In various embodiments, the length L of the spring 300 may be in the range of at least about 1 mm to no more than about 10 mm. It should be understood that the length L of the spring 300 may be in the range between any of the aforementioned minimum and maximum values. It should also be understood that the length L of the spring 300 may be any value between any of the aforementioned minimum and maximum values. It can also be understood that the length L of the spring 300 may vary along its circumference and may vary among various types of springs.

[0060] As described above, the spring according to the embodiments described herein can be used in an assembly. For example, according to several embodiments, the assembly can be a motion assembly for a vehicle. The motion assembly may include a flush handle door assembly. Figures 4A to 4C A spring is shown in an exemplary motion assembly 450 according to an embodiment described herein, for use in a plurality of embodiments. Figure 4A Includes a side view of a spring in a motion assembly 450 according to one embodiment, based on the embodiments described herein. Figure 4B Includes a cross-sectional side view of a spring in an exemplary motion assembly 450 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4C Includes a close-up cross-sectional side view of a spring in an exemplary motion assembly 450 according to one embodiment, based on an embodiment described herein. In several embodiments, the motion assembly 450 may be a flush-handle door assembly. Reference Figure 4A The motion assembly 450 may include a first component or shaft 442 operatively connected to the door handle to open the door from inside the vehicle. The motion assembly 450 may also include a second component or housing 440. In several embodiments, the shaft 442 may be adapted to be moved by a user to open the door. In several embodiments, this is accomplished by operatively connecting the shaft 442 to the handle 448. Once the handle 448 is actuated by the user, the shaft 442 moves or begins to move to open the vehicle door. In several embodiments, the shaft 442 may be rotated to open the door by actuation of the handle 448.

[0061] The motion components disclosed herein may be made of metal, polymer, or a combination thereof. The metal may be a single metal, such as aluminum, or a metal alloy, such as steel, aluminum alloy, brass, etc. The polymer may be a thermoplastic polymer. The thermoplastic polymer may be a polyamide thermoplastic material. The motion components may be made from die-cast metal or injection-molded plastic using molding or drawing techniques known in the art.

[0062] like Figures 4A to 4C As shown, the motion assembly 450 may also include a spring 400 according to an embodiment described herein. The spring 400 within the housing may have corresponding components and features, which are indicated elsewhere within the assembly herein. For example... Figures 4B to 4C As best shown, the spring 400 may be radially disposed between the shaft 442 and the housing 440. As shown, at least one end 434, 436 may contact and / or anchor against the housing 440 within the moving assembly 450. This anchoring may be achieved by a fastener that fixes or orients the spring to provide a force against the housing 440. In various embodiments, the fastener may include at least one or a combination of nuts, bolts, bearings, slats, latches, clips, flanges, frogs, grommets, hooks-eyes, latches, wedges, nails, rivets, tongues-grooves, notches, bevels, spiral anchors, snap-fit ​​fasteners, stitching, threaded fasteners, straps, toggle bolts, wedge anchors, screws, bolts, clamps, snap rings, clips, latches, pins, straps, nails, holes, welds, unthreaded fasteners, bayonet joints, crenellated or ribbed surfaces. Figures 4B to 4C As shown, the fastener may include at least one end 434, 436, which is fitted into grooves 444, 446 of the housing 400 to form a tongue-and-groove fastener. As shown, in several embodiments, both ends 434, 436 are fitted into grooves 444, 446 of the housing 400 to form a tongue-and-groove fastener.

[0063] In several embodiments, as described herein, the spring 400 may have a first main surface 432 and a second main surface 430. The second main surface 430 may include a low-friction layer as described above along its surface. In several embodiments, the second main surface 430 may provide a frictional interface with the shaft 442 by forming a zero-backlash fit with the shaft 442. When the shaft 442 rotates, the frictional interface between the second main surface 430 of the spring 400 and the shaft 442 allows the shaft 442 to rotate more easily due to the presence of a low-friction material on the second main surface 430 and the zero-backlash or contact between the second main surface 430 and the shaft 442. In several embodiments, sliding may be substantially limited to and substantially free to occur at the frictional interface between the shaft 442 and the spring 400.

[0064] It may be necessary to maintain a range of torque values ​​measured at shaft 446 to achieve optimal operation of the moving component 450. In several exemplary embodiments, spring 400 may provide a torque around shaft 442 in the range of 0.1 Nm to 2 Nm (such as 0.2 Nm to 1.5 Nm, or such as 0.3 Nm to 0.8 Nm). It should also be understood that the torque range of spring 400 may be any value between any of the aforementioned minimum and maximum values.

[0065] Example

[0066] The spring according to the embodiment described herein was tested at a rate of 60 degrees per second using cycles simulating the operation of a real flush door handle assembly. Each cycle consisted of 0.5 seconds of clockwise rotation, followed by a 1-second pause, and then rotation back to the initial position, also including a 1-second pause. Results showed that the torque was consistent and stable with a deviation of less than + / - 10% over more than 100,000 test cycles.

[0067] According to the various embodiments described herein, springs with improved torque and tolerance performance are provided that eliminate the need for additional parts, reduce installation and manufacturing time, eliminate or reduce noise, roughness, and vibration, eliminate the need for grease or lubricant, and make them easier to use for moving components of a vehicle, such as door assemblies. More specifically, according to the embodiments described herein, springs achieve better tolerance and torque performance, improve contact with adjacent parts, thereby reducing clicks / noise and improving the performance of moving components and the overall vehicle. This can reduce and / or compensate for component wear during its service life and make the performance of components and the vehicle more stable.

[0068] The subject matter disclosed above should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive, and the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications, enhancements, and other embodiments falling within the true scope of the invention. Therefore, to the fullest extent permitted by law, the scope of the invention will be determined by the broadest permissible interpretation of the following claims and their equivalents, and should not be construed as limited to the foregoing specific embodiments.

[0069] Furthermore, in the foregoing detailed embodiments, for the purpose of simplifying this disclosure, various features may be grouped together or described in a single embodiment. This disclosure should not be construed as reflecting an intention that the claimed embodiments require more features than those expressly listed in each claim. Rather, as reflected in the following claims, the subject matter of the invention may address fewer than all features of any embodiment disclosed herein. Therefore, the following claims are incorporated into the detailed embodiments, wherein each claim independently defines a separately claimed subject matter.

[0070] Many different aspects and embodiments are possible. Some of these aspects and embodiments are described below. After reading this specification, those skilled in the art will recognize that those aspects and embodiments are merely illustrative and do not limit the scope of the invention. Embodiments can be based on any one or more of the embodiments listed below.

[0071] Implementation Scheme 1: A spring for a moving component, the spring comprising: a body including a strip including: a base forming a first main surface; and a low-friction material coupled to the base and forming a second main surface, wherein the body forms an annular portion oriented about a central axis, wherein the body has a pair of ends, wherein at least one of the pair of ends extends radially outward from the annular portion, wherein the annular portion is adapted to extend about a first component and provide a frictional interface with the first component along the second main surface when the first component is in motion, and wherein at least one end is adapted to anchor the spring against a second component.

[0072] Implementation Scheme 2: A motion assembly comprising: a first component oriented downward along a central axis; a second component radially surrounding at least partially the first component about the central axis; and a spring radially disposed between the first and second components about the central axis, the spring including a body comprising: a substrate forming a first main surface; and a low-friction material coupled to the substrate and forming a second main surface, wherein the body forms an annular portion oriented about the central axis, wherein the body has a pair of ends, wherein at least one of the pair of ends extends radially outward from the annular portion, wherein the annular portion is adapted to extend about the first component and provide a frictional interface with the first component along the second main surface when the first component is in motion, and wherein at least one end is adapted to anchor the spring against the second component.

[0073] Implementation Scheme 3: A method comprising: providing a first component oriented downward along a central axis; providing a second component radially surrounding at least partially the first component around the central axis; radially distributing a spring between the first and second components, the spring including a body oriented around the central axis, the body including: a substrate forming a first main surface; and a low-friction material coupled to the substrate and forming a second main surface, wherein the body forms an annular portion oriented around the central axis, wherein the body has a pair of ends, wherein at least one of the pair of ends extends radially outward from the annular portion; anchoring the at least one end of the spring against the second component; and moving the first component such that, when the first component is in motion, the annular portion provides a frictional interface with the first component.

[0074] Implementation Scheme 4: The spring, motion component, or method according to any one of the foregoing implementation schemes, wherein the substrate comprises a spring material.

[0075] Implementation Scheme 5: The spring, motion component, or method according to any one of the foregoing implementation schemes, wherein the substrate comprises steel or spring steel.

[0076] Implementation Scheme 6: The spring, motion component, or method according to any one of the preceding implementation schemes, wherein the low-friction material includes a polymer.

[0077] Implementation Scheme 7: The spring, motion component, or method according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the low-friction material comprises a polymer, including at least one or any combination thereof of polyketone, polyaramid, polyphenylene sulfide, polyethersulfone, polyphenylene sulfone, polyamide imide, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, fluoropolymer, polybenzimidazole, polyacetal, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polypropylene (PP), polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyimide (PI), polyetherimide, polyether ether ketone (PEEK), polyethylene (PE), polysulfone, polyamide (PA), polyphenylene ether, polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyurethane, polyester, liquid crystal polymer (LCP).

[0078] Implementation Scheme 8: A spring, motion assembly, or method according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein a pair of ends includes a second end that extends radially outward from the annular portion and is adapted to anchor the spring against the second component.

[0079] Implementation Scheme 9: The spring, motion component, or method according to any one of the preceding implementation schemes, wherein the annular portion comprises a polygonal cross-section.

[0080] Implementation Scheme 10: The spring, motion component, or method according to any one of the preceding implementation schemes, wherein the annular portion includes at least a cross-section that is specifically arc-shaped.

[0081] Implementation Scheme 11: The spring, motion component, or method according to any one of the foregoing implementation schemes, wherein the cross-sectional thickness of the strip is T. B , among which, T B Between 0.1mm and 1mm.

[0082] Implementation Scheme 12: The spring, motion component, or method according to Implementation Scheme 11, wherein the cross-sectional width of the strip is W. B Among them, W B / T B At least 2.

[0083] Implementation Scheme 13: A spring, motion assembly, or method according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the annular portion forms at least one coil, the at least one coil forming a helix, the helix surrounding a first component axially downward along a central axis.

[0084] Implementation Scheme 14: The spring, motion assembly, or method according to Implementation Scheme 13, wherein at least one coil comprises a plurality of coils.

[0085] Implementation Scheme 15: The spring, motion component, or method according to any one of the preceding implementation schemes, wherein the average helix angle of the body is at least 5°, at least 10°, at least 15°, at least 20°, at least 25°, at least 30°, at least 35°, at least 40°, at least 45°, at least 50°, at least 55°, at least 60°, at least 65°, at least 70°, or at least 75°.

[0086] Implementation Scheme 16: A spring, motion assembly, or method according to any one of the preceding implementation schemes, wherein at least one end is anchored to a second component by a fastener comprising at least one or a combination thereof, including a nut, bolt, bearing, slat, latch, clip, flange, fork, grommets, hook-eye, latch, wedge, nail, rivet, tongue-groove, notch, bevel, spiral anchor, snap fastener, stitch, threaded fastener, tie, toggle bolt, wedge anchor, screw, bolt, clamp, snap ring, clip, latch, pin, tie, nail, hole, and weld.

[0087] Implementation Scheme 17: A spring, motion assembly, or method according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein at least one end is anchored to a second component by a fastener comprising a tongue portion on the spring within a groove on the second component.

[0088] Implementation Scheme 18: The spring, motion assembly, or method according to any one of the foregoing implementation schemes, wherein the motion of the first component includes rotational motion.

[0089] Implementation Scheme 19: A spring, motion assembly, or method according to any one of the preceding implementation schemes, wherein the first component includes a shaft.

[0090] Implementation Scheme 20: A spring, motion assembly, or method according to any one of the preceding implementation schemes, wherein the second component includes a housing.

[0091] Implementation Scheme 21: The spring, motion component, or method according to any one of the foregoing implementation schemes, wherein the motion component includes a handle assembly for a vehicle door.

[0092] Implementation Scheme 22: A spring, motion assembly, or method according to any one of the preceding implementation schemes, wherein the spring provides a torque deviation of less than + / -10% when the first component rotates within the second component.

[0093] Implementation Scheme 23: A spring, motion assembly, or method according to any one of the preceding implementation schemes, wherein the spring provides a torque around the first component in the range of 0.1 Nm to 2 Nm.

[0094] Note that not all of the above-described features are required; some specific features may be optional, and one or more features may be provided in addition to those described. Furthermore, the order in which the features are described does not necessarily correspond to the order in which they are installed.

[0095] For clarity, certain features described herein in the context of individual embodiments may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, for brevity, the various features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be provided individually or in any sub-combination.

[0096] The benefits, other advantages, and solutions to the problems have been described above with respect to specific embodiments. However, these benefits, advantages, solutions to the problems, and any features that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more significant should not be construed as key, necessary, or essential features of any or all claims.

[0097] The description and illustrations of the embodiments described herein are intended to provide a general understanding of the structure of various embodiments. The description and illustrations are not intended as an exhaustive and comprehensive description of all elements and features of devices and systems using the structures or methods described herein. Individual embodiments may also be provided in combination within a single embodiment, and conversely, for brevity, various features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be provided individually or in any sub-combination. Furthermore, references to values ​​within a scope include every value within that scope, including the referenced end value of the scope. Many other embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art only after reading this specification. Other embodiments may be used and other embodiments may be derived from this disclosure, such that structural substitutions, logical substitutions, or any changes may be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Therefore, this disclosure should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive.

Claims

1. A spring for a moving component, the spring comprising: The main body includes a strip, and the strip includes: Substrate, the substrate forming a first main surface; and A low-friction material is coupled to the substrate and forms a second main surface, wherein the body forms an annular portion oriented about a central axis, wherein the body has a pair of ends, wherein at least one of the pairs of ends extends radially outward from the annular portion, wherein the annular portion is adapted to extend around a first component and provide a frictional interface with the first component along the second main surface when the first component is in motion, and wherein... The at least one end is adapted to anchor the spring against the second component.

2. A motion component, the motion component comprising: A first component, the first component being oriented downwards along a central axis; A second component, which radially surrounds at least partially the first component around the central axis; and A spring, the spring being radially arranged around the central axis Between the first component and the second component, the spring includes a body, the body comprising: Substrate, the substrate forming a first main surface; and A low-friction material is coupled to the substrate and forms a second primary surface, wherein the body forms an annular portion oriented around the central axis, wherein the body has a pair of ends, wherein at least one of the pairs of ends extends radially outward from the annular portion, wherein the annular portion is adapted to extend around the first component and provide a frictional interface with the first component along the second primary surface when the first component is in motion. Furthermore, at least one end is adapted to anchor the spring against the second component.

3. A method, the method comprising: Provide a first component oriented downwards along the central axis; A second component is provided that radially surrounds at least partially the first component around the central axis; A spring is radially disposed between the first component and the second component, the spring comprising a body oriented about the central axis, the body comprising: Substrate, the substrate forming a first main surface; and A low-friction material coupled to the substrate and forming a second main surface, wherein the body forms an annular portion oriented around the central axis, wherein the body has a pair of ends, wherein at least one of the pair of ends extends radially outward from the annular portion; Anchoring at least one end of the spring against the second component; and The first component is moved such that, when the first component is in motion, the annular portion provides a frictional interface with the first component.

4. The spring, motion component, or method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The The substrate includes spring material.

5. The spring, motion component, or method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The The base material includes steel or spring steel.

6. The spring, motion component, or method according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The Low-friction materials include polymers.

7. The spring, motion component, or method according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The Low-friction materials include polymers, including at least one or any combination thereof, of polyketone, polyaramid, polyphenylene sulfide, polyethersulfone, polyphenylene sulfone, polyamide imide, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, fluoropolymers, polybenzimidazole, polyacetal, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polypropylene (PP), polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyimide (PI), polyetherimide, polyether ether ketone (PEEK), polyethylene (PE), polysulfone, polyamide (PA), polyphenylene ether, polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyurethane, polyester, liquid crystal polymer (LCP).

8. The spring, motion component, or method according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The The pair of ends includes a second end that extends radially outward from the annular portion and is adapted to anchor the spring against the second component.

9. The spring, motion component, or method according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The The annular portion includes a polygonal cross-section.

10. The spring, motion component, or method according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The The annular portion includes at least a cross-section that is specifically arched.

11. The spring, motion component, or method according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The The cross-sectional thickness of the strip is T B , among which, T B Between 0.1mm and 1mm.

12. The spring, motion component, or method according to claim 11, wherein, The The cross-sectional width of the strip is W B Among them, W B / T B At least 2.

13. The spring, motion component, or method according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The The annular portion forms at least one coil, which forms a spiral around the first component axially downward along the central axis.

14. The spring, motion component, or method according to claim 13, wherein, The at least one coil It includes multiple coils.

15. The spring, motion component, or method according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The The average helix angle of the main body is at least 5°, at least 10°, at least 15°, at least 20°, at least 25°, at least 30°, at least 35°, at least 40°, at least 45°, at least 50°, at least 55°, at least 60°, at least 65°, at least 70°, or at least 75°.

16. The spring, motion component, or method according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The At least one end is anchored to the second component by a fastener, said fastener comprising at least one or a combination of nuts, bolts, bearings, slats, latches, clips, flanges, frogs, grommets, hooks-eyes, latches, wedges, nails, rivets, tongues-grooves, notches, bevels, spiral anchors, snap fasteners, stitching, threaded fasteners, straps, toggle bolts, wedge anchors, screws, bolts, clamps, buckles, clips, latches, pins, straps, nails, holes, and welds.

17. The spring, motion component, or method according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The At least one end is anchored to the second component by a fastener, the fastener including a tongue-shaped portion on the spring within a groove on the second component.

18. The spring, motion component, or method according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The The movement of the first component includes rotational motion.

19. The spring, motion component, or method according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The The first component includes a shaft.

20. The spring, motion component, or method according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The The second component includes the housing.

21. The spring, motion component, or method according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The The moving parts include the handle assembly for the door.

22. The spring, motion component, or method according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The The spring provides a torque deviation of less than + / -10% when the first component rotates within the second component.

23. The spring, motion component, or method according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The The spring provides a torque in the range of 0.1 Nm to 2 Nm around the first component.

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