Air spring connecting structure and air spring

Abstract

The utility model relates to the technical field of air springs, in particular to an air spring connecting structure and an air spring, the air spring connecting structure comprises a first structural section and a second structural section; the first structural section comprises a first modular connecting part and a first connecting part connected with a bearing of the air spring and / or a fluctuating piston; the second structural section comprises a second modular connecting part and a second connecting part used for being connected with a vehicle body. Wherein the first modular connecting part is detachably connected with the second modular connecting part; the air spring connecting structure provided by the utility model is flexible in adaptation, low in maintenance cost and short in maintenance period during use.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of air spring technology, specifically to an air spring connection structure and an air spring. Background Technology

[0002] In existing technologies, the rotating cover of air springs is typically a one-piece structure, requiring separate design and manufacturing for different vehicle models and bearing types. Due to the increasing performance requirements of passenger vehicles for air springs, dual-chamber air springs are gradually becoming mainstream. However, the one-piece rotating cover cannot flexibly adapt to different bearings or body interfaces, resulting in long development cycles and high mold costs. Furthermore, the one-piece design makes it difficult to reuse parts after they are scrapped, further increasing resource waste. Therefore, there is an urgent need to improve the existing air spring rotating cover to solve the above-mentioned technical problems. Utility Model Content

[0003] In view of the shortcomings of the prior art, the purpose of this utility model is to provide an air spring connection structure and an air spring, which is flexible in use, has low maintenance cost and short maintenance cycle.

[0004] To achieve the above and other related objectives, this utility model provides an air spring connection structure, comprising:

[0005] The first structural segment includes a first modular connecting part and a first connecting part for the bearing and / or undulating piston connection of the air spring;

[0006] The second structural section includes a second modular connecting part and a second connecting part for connecting with the vehicle body;

[0007] The first modular connecting part and the second modular connecting part are detachably connected.

[0008] In one embodiment of the present invention, the first modular connecting part and the second modular connecting part are detachably connected by at least one of the following: threaded structure, snap-fit ​​structure, pin structure or interference fit structure.

[0009] In one embodiment of the present invention, the first structural segment and / or the second structural segment are composed of at least two detachably connected sub-components, and each sub-component is detachably connected to the other by at least one of a threaded structure, a snap-fit ​​structure, a pin structure, or an interference fit structure.

[0010] In one embodiment of the present invention, the first connecting part of the first structural segment is an independent detachable structure, and / or the second connecting part of the second structural segment is an independent detachable structure.

[0011] In one embodiment of the present invention, the first connecting part includes at least one of an elastic buckle, an annular groove, and a boss.

[0012] In one embodiment of the present invention, the second connecting part includes at least one of a tapered guide surface, a tapered boss, a positioning flange, and a threaded connection structure.

[0013] In one embodiment of the present invention, the first structural segment includes a plastic body and an insert-formed metal support ring.

[0014] In one embodiment of this utility model, the first structural segment and / or the second structural segment are provided with a hollow weight-reducing structure.

[0015] In one embodiment of the present invention, the first structural segment includes a first mating surface, and the first modular connection part is a threaded connection hole recessed inward from the first mating surface.

[0016] The second structural segment includes a second mating surface for mating with the first mating surface, and the second modular connection part is a threaded connection post protruding from the second mating surface.

[0017] This utility model provides an air spring, including an air spring body and the air spring connection structure;

[0018] The air spring body includes a bearing and an undulating piston, and the bearing and the undulating piston are detachably connected to the first connection part of the air spring connection structure.

[0019] In summary, the air spring connection structure of this utility model, through segmented, modular, or standardized design, allows the first structural segment to be adapted to various bearings and undulating pistons by replacing different specifications, while the second structural segment flexibly matches different body interfaces. The two segments are connected detachably for rapid assembly and replacement, thus significantly shortening the development cycle, reducing mold investment, and improving parts reusability. Furthermore, the segmented structure can be independently adjusted or replaced during installation and maintenance, further optimizing assembly efficiency and resource utilization, which is beneficial for improving the efficiency of multi-model platform development. Attached Figure Description

[0020] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0021] Figure 1The first integrated air spring connection structure A1 before the improvement in this case and its corresponding flat bearing B1;

[0022] Figure 2 This refers to the second type of integrated air spring connection structure A2 and its corresponding flat bearing B2 before the improvement in this case;

[0023] Figure 3 This refers to the third type of integrated air spring connection structure A3 before the improvement in this case, and its corresponding flat bearing B3.

[0024] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the air spring connection structure according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 5 for Figure 4 A structural diagram of the second structural segment;

[0026] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the air spring connection structure according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 7 for Figure 6 A structural diagram of the second structural segment;

[0028] Figure 8 for Figure 4 or Figure 6 A structural diagram of the first structural segment, in which Figure 5 or Figure 7 Any second structural segment in can be combined with Figure 8 The first structural segment in the middle is adapted for connection;

[0029] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection between one type of air spring connection structure in this case and the vehicle body and the bearings of the air spring;

[0030] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram showing another air spring connection structure in this case, connecting to the vehicle body and the bearings of the air spring.

[0031] Component labeling description: air spring connecting structure 100, first structural segment 10, first modular connecting part 11, first connecting part 12, plastic body 101, metal support ring 102, plastic body 101, metal support ring 102, first mating surface 1021, second structural segment 20, second modular connecting part 21, second connecting part 22, second mating surface 201, bearing 200, undulating piston 201, body 300. Detailed Implementation

[0032] The following specific examples illustrate the implementation of this utility model. Those skilled in the art can easily understand other advantages and effects of this utility model from the content disclosed in this specification. This utility model can also be implemented or applied through other different specific embodiments, and various details in this specification can also be modified or changed based on different viewpoints and applications without departing from the spirit of this utility model. It should be noted that, in the absence of conflict, the following embodiments and features in the embodiments can be combined with each other. It should also be understood that the terminology used in the embodiments of this utility model is for describing specific implementation schemes and not for limiting the scope of protection of this utility model. Test methods in the following embodiments that do not specify specific conditions are generally performed under conventional conditions or according to the conditions recommended by the respective manufacturers.

[0033] Please see Figures 1 to 10 It should be understood that the structures, proportions, sizes, etc., depicted in the accompanying drawings are merely for illustrative purposes to aid those skilled in the art and are not intended to limit the scope of this invention. Therefore, they have no substantial technical significance. Any modifications to the structure, changes in proportions, or adjustments to size, without affecting the effectiveness and purpose of this invention, should still fall within the scope of the technical content disclosed in this invention. Furthermore, the terms such as "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "middle," and "one" used in this specification are merely for clarity and are not intended to limit the scope of this invention. Changes or adjustments to their relative relationships, without substantially altering the technical content, should also be considered within the scope of this invention.

[0034] When numerical ranges are given in the embodiments, it should be understood that, unless otherwise stated in this invention, both endpoints of each numerical range and any value between the two endpoints may be selected. Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in this invention, as well as the prior art known to those skilled in the art and the description of this invention, may be implemented using any prior art methods, devices, and materials similar to or equivalent to those described, used, or made of materials in the embodiments of this invention.

[0035] In existing technologies, the rotating cover of air springs is typically a one-piece structure, requiring individual design and manufacturing for different vehicle models and bearing types. Due to the increasing performance requirements of passenger vehicles for air springs, dual-chamber air springs are gradually becoming mainstream. However, the one-piece rotating cover cannot flexibly adapt to different bearings or body interfaces, resulting in long development cycles and high mold costs. Furthermore, the one-piece design makes it difficult to reuse parts after they are scrapped, further increasing resource waste; for example… Figure 1-3 As shown.

[0036] Please see Figure 4-5 8 or Figure 6-8 This utility model provides an air spring connection structure 100, including a first structural segment 10 and a second structural segment 20; the first structural segment 10 includes a first modular connection part 11 and a first connection part 12 for connecting with the bearing 200 and / or the undulating piston 201 of the air spring; the second structural segment 20 includes a second modular connection part 21 and a second connection part 22 for connecting with the vehicle body 300; wherein the first modular connection part 11 and the second modular connection part 21 are detachably connected.

[0037] It should be noted that the first modular connecting part 11 and the second modular connecting part 21 are detachably connected by at least one of the following structures: threaded structure, snap-fit ​​structure, pin structure, interference fit structure, or other structures that meet the requirements for detachable connection and use. When using a threaded connection, the first modular connecting part 11 and the second modular connecting part 21 are respectively provided with matching internal threads and external threads. By rotating a certain angle, the two are tightly fitted to achieve a reliable connection. In the snap-fit ​​method, the first modular connecting part 11 and the second modular connecting part 21 are respectively provided with snaps and slots. The snaps are embedded into the slots by elastic deformation to complete quick assembly. In the bolted connection, bolt holes and / or one of them is provided with threaded posts, and bolt fasteners are used for fastening. This method has high connection strength and is easy to disassemble and reuse. The first connecting part 12 is designed according to the type of bearing 200 or undulating piston 201 of the air spring. For example, if there are two sizes of bearings 200 on the market, two sizes of first structural sections 10 or two first structural sections 10 with different first connecting parts 12 can be designed for the two types of bearings 200. The first connecting part 12 may include at least one of the following: an elastic buckle, an annular groove, a boss, or other structures that meet the usage requirements, to achieve a stable connection, ensure the transmission of force and movement during vehicle operation, and simultaneously guarantee the sealing and / or reliability of the air spring. The second connecting part 22 may be connected to the body 300 using bolted connections, snap-fit ​​connections, or other methods, depending on the specifications and installation requirements of the body 300 interface. For example, if it is necessary to adapt to two different vehicle models' interfaces, two different sizes of second structural sections 20 may be designed for the two vehicle model interfaces, or two second structural sections 20 with different second connecting parts 22 may be used. The second connecting part 22 adapts to different vehicle body 300 interfaces by employing various replaceable connection structures and adjustable installation interfaces. Specifically, the second connecting part 22 can be designed in different forms, such as flat, curved, or other structures conforming to the geometry of the vehicle body 300 interface, according to the shape, size, and installation requirements of the interface, to achieve optimal matching and connection. Simultaneously, the second connecting part 22 is provided with multiple mounting holes. The spacing, size, and arrangement of these mounting holes can be adjusted and customized according to the vehicle body 300 interface of different vehicle models. By selecting appropriate positions and numbers of mounting holes to connect with the vehicle body 300, the installation requirements of different vehicle models can be met. Specifically, the second connecting part 22 may include at least one of the following: a tapered guide surface, a tapered boss, a positioning flange, a threaded connection structure, or other structures that meet the usage requirements.Furthermore, the bolted connection involves providing corresponding bolt holes and / or threaded posts on the second connecting part 22 and the body 300, which are then fastened with bolt fasteners, facilitating disassembly and adjustment. The snap-fit ​​method is similar to the snap-fit ​​principle of the first modular connecting part 11, utilizing the cooperation of snaps and slots to achieve quick connection, suitable for some body 300 interfaces with relatively low connection strength requirements. Through this modular design, the second structural section 20 can adapt to the connection requirements of different vehicle body 300 models, improving the versatility and interchangeability of the air spring connection structure 100. It should be understood that both the first modular connecting part 11 and the second modular connecting part 21 are standardized or universal connection structures, ensuring that regardless of the specifications or structural adjustments made to the first structural section 10 and the second structural section 20, the first modular connecting part 11 of the first structural section 10 and the second modular connecting part 21 of the second structural section 20 can always be detachably connected.

[0038] The air spring connection structure 100 of this utility model adopts a modular design for the first structural segment 10 and the second structural segment 20, and makes them detachably connected. Firstly, for different vehicle models and bearing 200 types, only the corresponding first structural segment 10 or second structural segment 20 needs to be replaced, without redesigning and manufacturing the entire air spring connection structure 100, significantly shortening the development cycle and reducing mold costs. Secondly, when a component is damaged or scrapped, only the damaged part can be replaced, while the remaining components can continue to be used, reducing resource waste and improving resource utilization. Thirdly, the modular design allows each component to be optimized according to actual needs, improving the overall performance of the air spring connection structure 100, such as connection strength, sealing, and reliability. Finally, the flexible combination method of this structure facilitates inventory management and the universality management of parts, reducing enterprise production and management costs and improving production efficiency.

[0039] Please see Figure 4-5 8 or Figure 6-8 As an optional embodiment of this case, the first structural segment 10 and / or the second structural segment 20 are composed of at least two detachably connected sub-components, and each sub-component is detachably connected to the other by at least one of the following: threaded structure, snap-fit ​​structure, pin structure, interference fit structure, or other detachable structure that meets the usage requirements.

[0040] It should be noted that when using a threaded structure, the sub-components are respectively equipped with matching internal and external threads. By rotating at a certain angle, the two are tightly fitted to achieve a reliable connection and improve connection strength and stability. This is suitable for working conditions that bear large axial forces and torques. The snap-fit ​​structure is equipped with snaps and slots on the sub-components. The snaps are embedded into the slots by elastic deformation to complete quick assembly. Its advantages are convenient disassembly and assembly and high efficiency. It is suitable for occasions that require frequent disassembly and assembly or where the connection strength requirements are relatively low. The pin structure is equipped with a socket and a pin on the sub-component. The pin is inserted into the socket and fixed. This method is simple in structure and easy to operate. It can adapt to different installation spaces and force requirements. The interference fit structure achieves a tight connection by precisely controlling the size and shape between the sub-components, so that the two undergo elastic deformation during assembly. Its characteristics are high connection strength and good coaxiality. It can effectively transmit force and torque and is suitable for high-precision and high-load connection requirements. For bearings 200 or undulating pistons 201 of different sizes, adaptation can be achieved by replacing the sub-components of the first connecting part 12 with the corresponding specifications, without having to redesign and manufacture the entire first structural section 10. Similarly, for body 300 interfaces of different vehicle models, the connection requirements can be met by adjusting the combination of sub-components of the second structural section 20. This not only improves the versatility and interchangeability of the air spring connecting structure 100, but also facilitates inventory management and parts commonality management, reduces the production and management costs of enterprises, and improves production efficiency.

[0041] As an optional embodiment of this case, the first connecting portion 12 of the first structural segment 10 is an independent detachable structure, and / or the second connecting portion 22 of the second structural segment 20 is an independent detachable structure.

[0042] It should be noted that the first connecting part 12 is, for example, a detachable internal threaded annular interface, an elastic claw, or a pin positioning groove structure, and the second connecting part 22 is, for example, a corresponding detachable external threaded cylinder, an elastic buckle, or a pin guide post structure. Furthermore, the first connecting part 12 may further include a tapered surface fit structure or an interference fit sleeve, and the second connecting part 22 may be correspondingly designed as a tapered guide surface or a stepped limiting boss. In another embodiment, the detachable structure may also employ a cantilever buckle and slot fit, or a split flange fastened with bolts, to achieve rapid assembly and disassembly of the interface.

[0043] This design, by making the first connecting part 12 and the second connecting part 22 independent detachable structures, facilitates the construction of modular functional zones. The first connecting part 12 adapts to bearings 200 or undulating pistons 201 of different sizes through standardized interfaces (such as threads and claws), while the second connecting part 22 matches diverse body 300 mounting positions through customized interfaces (such as snap-fits and pins). The connection structure between the two sections is based on mechanical interlocking principles (such as thread engagement and elastic deformation snap-fit) or physical limiting principles (such as pin guidance and conical surface contact), ensuring connection stability while retaining detachability. This design separates the bearing 200 adaptation function from the body 300 connection function, enabling independent optimization and rapid replacement of functional modules. The diverse design of the detachable first connecting part 12 and the second connecting part 22 significantly improves the versatility and maintenance efficiency of the air spring connection structure 100. The standardized interface design reduces the development cost of adapting to different bearings 200, while the customized body 300 interface shortens the vehicle matching cycle. The modular architecture allows for replacement of only the corresponding connecting part in case of partial damage, reducing resource waste. Furthermore, the combination of mechanical interlocks and physical limits simplifies the assembly and disassembly process while ensuring assembly accuracy, providing an efficient solution for rapid adaptation to multiple platform models and subsequent maintenance.

[0044] Please see Figure 6 As an optional embodiment of this case, the first structural segment 10 includes a plastic body 101 and an insert-formed metal support ring 102.

[0045] It should be noted that the plastic body 101 can be manufactured using engineering plastics such as polyamide, polycarbonate, and polypropylene through injection molding, which can meet the requirements of automotive parts in terms of weight reduction and cost control. The metal support ring 102 can be made of materials such as stainless steel, alloy steel, and aluminum alloy, and can be made into a ring structure through processes such as stamping and stretching. It has high strength, high rigidity, and good wear resistance and heat resistance, which can provide necessary mechanical support and strength guarantee for the first structural segment 10. During the manufacturing process, the metal support ring 102 is pre-placed in the injection mold, and then the plastic melt is injected, so that the plastic body 101 and the metal support ring 102 are tightly bonded under high temperature and high pressure to form a whole. This ensures the connection strength and reliability between the plastic body 101 and the metal support ring 102, effectively withstands various forces and torques generated by the air spring during operation, prevents structural deformation or damage, and significantly reduces the mass of the first structural section 10, which helps to reduce the overall vehicle weight and improve the vehicle's fuel economy and handling performance. At the same time, it makes full use of the respective advantages of plastic and metal materials, ensuring both the strength and rigidity of the structure and reducing production costs, which is conducive to large-scale production and quality control.

[0046] Please see Figure 4 or Figure 6As an optional embodiment of this case, the first structural segment 10 and / or the second structural segment 20 are provided with a hollow weight-reducing structure.

[0047] It should be noted that hollow weight-reduction structures can take various specific forms. For example, circular, square, elliptical, or other irregularly shaped through holes can be incorporated into the solid parts of the structural segment. The size, shape, and location of these through holes can be optimized based on the stress analysis and weight reduction requirements of the structural segment to minimize weight while ensuring structural strength. Furthermore, hollow weight-reduction structures can also employ honeycomb, mesh, or grid-like structures with regularly arranged holes or cavities. These forms not only effectively reduce weight but also enhance the stiffness and stability of the structural segment through their specific geometric shapes, thereby strengthening its resistance to deformation. In the manufacturing process, hollow weight-reduction structures can be achieved through machining, injection molding, casting, and other processes.

[0048] Please see Figure 5-8 As an optional embodiment of this case, the first structural segment 10 includes a first mating surface 1021, and the first modular connecting part 11 is a threaded connecting hole recessed inward from the first mating surface 1021.

[0049] The second structural segment 20 includes a second mating surface 201 for mating with the first mating surface 1021, and the second modular connecting part 21 is a threaded connecting post protruding from the second mating surface 201, wherein the threaded connecting post is adapted to be connected with the threaded connecting hole.

[0050] It should be noted that the first mating surface 1021 and the second mating surface 201 can be designed as flat surfaces, curved surfaces, or other shapes that meet mechanical requirements to ensure that they can make tight contact when mated, providing sufficient contact area and mating force to guarantee the stability and sealing of the connection. The threaded connecting post and the threaded connecting hole can be fitted with various thread types, such as ordinary threads, trapezoidal threads, and sawtooth threads. The appropriate thread type and precision grade can be selected according to actual needs to meet different connection strength and precision requirements. The mating design of the first mating surface 1021 and the second mating surface 201, as well as the adaptive connection between the threaded connecting post and the threaded connecting hole, enables quick and reliable connection and disassembly between the first structural segment 10 and the second structural segment 20. During assembly, the mating surfaces of the first structural segment 10 and the second structural segment 20 are aligned and mated. Then, the threaded connecting post is aligned with the threaded connecting hole, rotated at a certain angle to screw the threaded connecting post into the threaded connecting hole until the predetermined insertion depth and tightening torque are reached, completing the connection. This connection method is simple to operate, requires no complex tools or equipment, and improves assembly efficiency and convenience. Meanwhile, due to the tight fit of the mating surfaces and the mechanical interlocking of the threaded connection, force and torque can be effectively transmitted, ensuring that the air spring connection structure 100 will not loosen or fall off during operation, thus ensuring driving safety and reliability.

[0051] like Figure 9 As shown in Figure 10, this utility model provides an air spring, including an air spring body and the air spring connecting structure 100;

[0052] The air spring body includes a bearing 200 and an undulating piston 201, which are detachably connected to the first connecting part 12 of the air spring connecting structure 100. The undulating piston 201 is a piston device installed inside the air spring, cooperating with the air spring's bladder and moving up and down within the cylinder to achieve the elastic deformation and recovery of the air spring. The undulating piston 201 is typically made of metal, possessing sufficient strength and toughness to withstand the pressure and impact forces generated by the air spring during operation. The bearing 200 primarily serves to support and reduce friction in the air spring system; the bearing 200 and the undulating piston 201 work together in the air spring system to jointly achieve the functions of supporting, damping, and adjusting the equipment or structure.

[0053] In summary, this utility model effectively overcomes some practical problems in the prior art, thus having high utilization value and significance.

[0054] The above embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles and effects of this utility model and are not intended to limit the scope of this utility model. Any person skilled in the art can modify or alter the above embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of this utility model. Therefore, all equivalent modifications or alterations made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and technical concept disclosed in this utility model should still be covered by the claims of this utility model, and other solutions derived by those skilled in the art also fall within the scope of this utility model.

Claims

1. An air spring connection structure, characterized in that, include: The first structural segment includes a first modular connecting part and a first connecting part for the bearing and / or undulating piston connection of the air spring; The second structural section includes a second modular connecting part and a second connecting part for connecting with the vehicle body; The first modular connecting part and the second modular connecting part are detachably connected.

2. The air spring connection structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first modular connection part and the second modular connection part are detachably connected by at least one of the following: threaded structure, snap-fit ​​structure, pin structure or interference fit structure.

3. The air spring connection structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first structural segment and / or the second structural segment are composed of at least two detachably connected sub-components, and each sub-component is detachably connected to the other by at least one of the following: threaded structure, snap-fit ​​structure, pin structure or interference fit structure.

4. The air spring connection structure according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first connecting part of the first structural segment is an independent detachable structure, and / or the second connecting part of the second structural segment is an independent detachable structure.

5. The air spring connection structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first connecting part includes at least one of the following: an elastic buckle, an annular groove, and a boss.

6. The air spring connection structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second connecting part includes at least one of a tapered guide surface, a tapered boss, a positioning flange, and a threaded connection structure.

7. The air spring connection structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first structural segment includes a plastic body and an insert-molded metal support ring.

8. The air spring connection structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first structural segment and / or the second structural segment are provided with a hollow weight-reduction structure.

9. The air spring connection structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first structural segment includes a first mating surface, and the first modular connection part is a threaded connection hole recessed inward from the first mating surface; The second structural segment includes a second mating surface for mating with the first mating surface, and the second modular connection part is a threaded connection post protruding from the second mating surface.

10. An air spring, characterized in that, Includes an air spring body and an air spring connection structure as described in any one of claims 1-9; The air spring body includes a bearing and an undulating piston, and the bearing and the undulating piston are detachably connected to the first connection part of the air spring connection structure.

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