End element and gas spring assembly, which has the same

Abstract

End element (202, 402, 600) with an axis (AX) and dimensioned to couple an end (222, 422) of an associated flexible wall (206, 406) of an associated gas spring assembly (200), wherein the end element (202, 402, 600) comprises: an end wall (272, 610) extending outwards in a direction transverse to the axis (AX) towards an outer circumferential edge (278), wherein the end wall (272, 610) has an end wall surface dimensioned to couple adjacently to the associated flexible wall (206, 406); a side wall (274, 614) extending from the end wall (272, 610) in an axial direction and dimensioned to accommodate an end (222, 422) of the associated flexible wall (206, 406) to couple receiving;a base wall (298, 612) which extends outwards in a direction transverse to the axis (AX), wherein the base wall (298, 612) is arranged in an axially offset relation to the end wall (272, 610) such that the base wall (298, 612) can couple an associated stop damper (266) adjacent to it, and such that at least one cavity (294) is formed along the end wall (272, 610), wherein the at least one cavity (294) is accessible from along one side of the end wall (272, 610) opposite the base wall (298, 612);and a fastening channel (628) which extends into and over the end element (202, 402, 600) and defines at least a fastening surface for receiving coupling of an associated structural component (USC), wherein the fastening channel (628) is dimensioned to receive coupling of the associated structural component (USC) and to prevent rotation of the end element (202, 402, 600) relative to the associated structural component (USC), wherein at least the end wall (272, 610), the side wall (274, 614) and the base wall (298, 612) of the end element (202, 402, 600) are formed from a uniform amount of polymer material.

Description

BACKGROUND The subject matter of the present disclosure relates generally to the technology of gas spring devices and, in particular, to an end element for use in the formation of gas spring assemblies. A suspension system for a vehicle comprising one or more such gas spring assemblies is also included. JP H08-14299A relates to an air spring in which both ends of a cylindrical, flexible layer are positioned between an upper plate and a piston to form a chamber for supplying and releasing air between the three. An air supply and release passage is formed in the axial central section of the piston. A projecting portion is formed on the inside of the axial central section of the piston with the supply and release passage, in the position facing the chamber. A cylindrical rubber stopper with a central opening that communicates with the supply and release passage is mounted on the projecting portion. An air passage groove extending from the central opening to communicate with the radial outer surface is formed at least on the upper surface of the rubber stopper.A surrounding wall 10, which is lower than the axial height of the rubber stopper and surrounds the rubber stopper, is formed on the circumference of the projecting part of the piston in the position opposite the chamber inside. US 2006 / 0 208 404 A1 relates to an air spring assembly for use in an associated vehicle suspension system, comprising a mounting element and a damping element. The air spring assembly includes a first and a second end section spaced apart from each other. A flexible wall is attached to the first and second end sections, defining a spring chamber between them. An insulator is mounted on the first end section and seals against it. The insulator has an insulator passage that seals against the damping element. The insulator and the first end section form at least a partial first load transmission path, such that a damping element load is transferred via the insulator and the first end section to the mounting element.The first end part forms at least a partial second load transmission path, so that an air spring load is transferred to the fastening element via the first end part without any significant transfer via the insulator. German patent DE 10 2009 051 944 A1 relates to an air spring-damper module consisting of an air spring and a standard shock absorber filled with a fluid, particularly for independent wheel suspension on motor vehicles. The air spring has an air spring bellows located between a bell-shaped housing and a rolling piston. A separate receptacle for the shock absorber bearing is integrated into the central area of ​​the housing as an integral part of the housing wall. US 2012 / 0200020A1 relates to a gas spring assembly. An end element of a gas spring assembly has an end element wall with a first wall section that defines at least a substantially flat surface area in a first plane, a second wall section that defines at least a partial outer perimeter of the end element wall, and a third wall section that defines at least a partial substantially flat surface area in a second plane. A recess may extend longitudinally along the third wall section. The subject matter of this disclosure may find a particular application and use in connection with components for wheeled vehicles, and is shown and described herein with reference to such use. However, it is clear that the subject matter of this disclosure is also accessible for use in other applications and environments, and that the specific uses shown and described herein are only exemplary. For example, the subject matter of this disclosure may be used in connection with gas spring assemblies of wheelless vehicles, support structures, height adjustment systems, and actuators, components thereof, and / or other such devices associated with industrial machinery. Accordingly, the subject matter of this disclosure is not intended to be limited to a use associated with gas spring suspension systems of wheeled vehicles. Most types and models of wheeled motor vehicles have a sprung mass, such as a body or chassis, and an unsprung mass, such as two or more axles or other wheel-coupling elements, with a suspension system positioned between them. A suspension system typically includes several spring devices as well as several damping devices, which together allow the sprung and unsprung masses of the vehicle to move relative to each other in a reasonably controlled manner. A movement of the sprung and unsprung masses toward each other is usually referred to in engineering as compression, while a movement of the sprung and unsprung masses away from each other is usually referred to in engineering as rebound. Generally, the range of motion of a suspension system extends between a first, or fully compressed, state and a second, or fully extended, state. To prevent contact between opposing sections of the sprung and unsprung mass, contact between opposing sections of suspension system components, or contact between any combination thereof, bump stops are typically installed in one or more areas of the vehicle to prevent such opposing sections from directly impacting each other. Thus, during a compression movement of the suspension system, an opposing component will contact the bump stop instead of striking the component to which or near which the bump stop is attached. In some cases, reducing the overall weight of a vehicle suspension system has been considered desirable. Reducing the weight of one or more of the end elements of one or more gas spring assemblies can be a crucial factor in achieving such a goal. Therefore, end elements made of polymer materials have been designed and engineered to contribute to reduced suspension system weight. Additionally, such designs can contribute to reduced manufacturing costs and / or other potentially desirable factors. However, it has been recognized that at least some known polymer end element designs are not optimally suited for use in operation with bump stops, such as under the conditions of a previously described application. Notwithstanding the widespread use and overall success of the wide variety of polymer end element designs known in the prior art, it is assumed that there is a need to meet these competing objectives while maintaining comparable or improved performance, ease of manufacture, lightweight composition, ease of installation, and / or reduced manufacturing costs. The present invention provides an end element as defined in claim 1, a gas spring assembly as defined in claim 14, and a suspension system as defined in claim 15. The dependent claims define preferred or advantageous embodiments of the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. 1 is a schematic representation of an example of a suspension system of an associated vehicle, which includes a gas spring assembly according to the subject matter of the present disclosure. Fig. 2 is a side view of an example of a gas spring assembly, which includes an example of an end element according to the subject matter of the present disclosure. Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional side view of the gas spring assembly of Fig. 2 along a line 3-3 in Fig. 2. Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional side view of the gas spring assembly of Figs. 2 and 3, which is shown in a compressed state. Fig. 5 is a top perspective view of the end element shown in Figs. 2-4 according to the subject matter of the present disclosure. Fig. 6 is a bottom perspective view of the end element of Figs. 2-5. Fig. 7 is a top view of the end element of Figs. 2-6. Fig. 8 is a bottom view of the end element of Figs. 2-7.Figure 9 is a side view of another example of a gas spring arrangement, which includes another example of an end element according to the subject matter of the present disclosure. Figure 10 is a cross-sectional side view of the gas spring arrangement of Figure 9 along a line 10-10 in Figure 9. Figure 11 is a cross-sectional side view of the gas spring arrangement of Figures 9 and 10 along a line 11-11 in Figure 10. Figure 12 is a top view of the end element of Figures 9-11. Figure 13 is a side view of another example of a gas spring arrangement, which includes another example of an end element according to the subject matter of the present disclosure. Figure 14 is a cross-sectional side view of the gas spring arrangement of Figure 13 along a line 14-14 in Figure 13. Figure 15 is a top perspective view of the end element shown in Figures 13 and 14 according to the subject matter of the present disclosure. Fig.Figure 16 is a perspective view from below of the end element of Figures 13-15. Figure 17 is a top view from above of the end element of Figures 13-16. Figure 18 is a cross-sectional side view of the end element of Figures 13-17 along a line 18-18 in Figure 17. Figure 19 is a cross-sectional side view of the end element of Figures 13-18 along a line 19-19 in Figure 17. DETAILED DESCRIPTION Now, regarding the drawings, it is clear that the illustrations serve the purpose of presenting examples of the subject matter of the present disclosure and are not intended to be limiting. Additionally, it is clear that the drawings are not to scale and that sections of certain features and / or elements may be exaggerated for the sake of clarity and / or to simplify understanding. Fig. 1 shows an example of a suspension system 100, which is arranged between a sprung mass, such as an associated vehicle body BDY, and an unsprung mass, such as an associated wheel WHL or an associated axle AXL, of an associated vehicle VHC. It is clear that one or more components of the suspension system can be functionally coupled between the sprung and unsprung masses of the associated vehicle in any suitable manner. It is also clear that such a vehicle suspension system can optionally include several damping elements, such as dampers DMP, and that such damping elements can also be functionally coupled between the sprung and unsprung masses of the associated vehicle in any suitable manner. The suspension system can further comprise several gas spring assemblies, which are held between the sprung and unsprung masses of the associated vehicle. In the arrangement shown in Fig. 1, the suspension system 100 comprises four gas spring assemblies 102, one of which is arranged adjacent to a corresponding wheel WHL in the direction of each corner of the associated vehicle. However, it is clear that any other suitable number of gas spring assemblies in any other configuration or arrangement can alternatively be used. As shown in Fig. 1, gas spring assemblies 102 are held between axles AXL and the vehicle body BDY of the associated vehicle VHC. It can also be seen that the gas spring assemblies shown and described in Fig. 1 (e.g., the gas spring assemblies 102) are represented as a rolling diaphragm type design.However, it is clear that gas spring assemblies of any other type, kind and / or design can be used alternatively. The suspension system 100 further comprises a pressurized gas system 104, which is associated with the gas spring assemblies to selectively supply pressurized gas (e.g., air) to it and selectively transfer pressurized gas from it. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 1, the pressurized gas system 104 comprises a pressurized gas source 106, such as a compressor, for generating pressurized air or other gases. A control device, such as a valve assembly 108, is shown as being connected to the compressor and can have any suitable configuration or arrangement. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the valve assembly 108 comprises a valve block 110 with several valves 112, which are held therein.The valve assembly 108 may optionally include a suitable exhaust, such as a silencer 114, to release pressurized gas from the system. Optionally, the pressurized gas system 104 may also include a reservoir 116, which is in fluid communication with the compressor and / or the valve assembly 108 and is suitable for storing pressurized gas. The valve arrangement 108 is connected to the gas spring arrangements 102 via suitable gas transmission lines 118. Therefore, the pressurized gas can be selectively transferred through the valve arrangement 108 into and / or out of the gas spring arrangements by selectively actuating the valves 112, for example to change or maintain a vehicle height at one or more corners of the vehicle. The suspension system 100 may further comprise a control system 120, which is capable of communicating with any or all systems and / or components (not shown) of the vehicle VHC and / or the suspension system 100, for example, for selective operation and / or control thereof. The control system 120 may comprise a controller or an electronic control unit (ECU) 122, which is communicatively coupled, for example, via a conductor or line 124, to the compressor and / or the valve assembly 108 for selective operation and control thereof, which includes the supply and discharge of pressurized gas to and / or from the gas spring assemblies 102. The ECU 122 may be of any suitable type, design, and / or configuration. The control system 120 may optionally include one or more height (or distance) sensing devices (not shown in Fig. 1), which may, for example, be functionally assigned to the gas spring assemblies 102 and may be capable of outputting or otherwise generating data, signals, and / or other message transmissions relating to the height of the gas spring assemblies 102 or the distance between other components of the vehicle VHC. Such height sensing devices 126 may be connected to the ECU 122, which can receive the height or distance signals from them. The height sensing devices 126 may be connected to the ECU 122 in any suitable manner, for example, via conductors or wires 128.Additionally, it is clear that the height sensing devices 126 may be of any suitable type, kind and / or construction. An example of a gas spring arrangement 200 according to the subject matter of the present disclosure is shown in Figures 2-4 such that it has a longitudinally extending axis AX and can have one or more end elements, such as an end element 202 and an end element 204, which is arranged longitudinally spaced apart from the end element 202. A flexible wall 206 can extend circumferentially around the longitudinal axis AX and can be attached between the end elements 202, 204 in a substantially fluid-tight manner such that a spring chamber 208 is at least partially defined between them. The gas spring assembly 200 can be arranged between associated sprung and unsprung masses of an associated vehicle VHC in any suitable manner. For example, one end element 202 can be functionally connected to the associated sprung mass, with the other end element 204 being functionally connected in the direction of and to the associated unsprung mass. In the arrangement shown in Figures 2-4, for example, the end element 202 is attached along a first or upper structural component USC, such as the associated vehicle body BDY in Figure 1, and can be fastened thereto in any suitable manner. For example, one or more fastening devices, such as threaded fasteners 210, can be functionally engaged with one or more corresponding fastening devices, such as threaded holes 212 (Figures 5 and 6).7), which are arranged, for example, on or along the end element 202. In some cases, one or more fastening devices (e.g., threaded holes 212) may extend inward into the end element 202 and may be dimensioned to accommodate one or more fastening devices (e.g., threaded fasteners 210) in a suitable manner and couple them by means of a thread. Additionally, one or more fastening devices may extend through (not shown) fastening holes in the upper structural component USC to engage with the end element 202. Alternatively, one or more (not shown) fastening bolts may protrude from the end element and extend through the one or more fastening holes of the upper structural component to accommodate one or more fastening devices, such as (not shown) threaded nuts. Additionally, a fluid connection port, such as a transmission channel 214, can optionally be provided to enable a fluid connection with the spring chamber 208, which can be used, for example, to transfer pressurized gas into and / or out of the spring chamber. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the transmission channel 214 extends through a connecting piece 216 and through the end element 202 into a fluid connection with the spring chamber 208. However, it is clear that any other suitable fluid connection arrangement can be used alternatively. The end element 204 can be fastened along a second or lower structural component LSC, such as an axis AXL in Fig. 1, for example, in any suitable manner. As an example, the lower structural component LSC can have one or more fastening holes HLS extending through it. In this case, a threaded fastener 218 can be functionally connected to the end element 204 and can extend through one of the fastening holes HLS to engage with a corresponding threaded connector 220, which can, for example, be embedded on or along the end element or held in place in some other way. It is clear that the one or more end elements can be of any suitable type, kind, construction, and / or configuration and can be functionally connected to or otherwise attached to the flexible wall 206 in any suitable manner. In the exemplary arrangement shown in Figures 2-8, for example, the end element 202 is of a type commonly referred to as an upper cap or upper plate and is attached to a first end 222 of the flexible wall 206 using a retaining ring 224, which may be crimped or otherwise radially deformed inward to hold at least a section of the flexible wall 206 between the end element and the retaining ring. The end element 204 is shown in the exemplary arrangement in Figures 2-8.Figures 2-4 show that it is of a type commonly referred to as a piston (or a rolling piston) having an outer surface 226 which is coupled adjacent to the flexible wall 206 such that a rolling diaphragm 228 is formed along it. As the gas spring assembly 200 is moved between extended and compressed states, the rolling diaphragm 228 is moved along the outer surface 226 in a conventional manner. As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the end element 204 has a body 230 and extends from a first or upper end 232 towards a second or lower end 234, which is arranged longitudinally spaced from the end 232. The body 230 has a longitudinally extending outer side wall 236, which extends circumferentially around the longitudinal axis AX and defines at least a portion of an outer surface 226. An end wall 238 is arranged transversely to the longitudinal axis AX and extends radially inwards along a shoulder section 240, which is arranged along the outer wall towards the end 232. The body 230 also has a first inner side wall 242, which extends longitudinally outwards beyond the end wall 238 and circumferentially around the longitudinal axis AX.The first inner side wall 242 has an outer surface 244 dimensioned to accommodate a second end 246 of the flexible wall 206 such that a substantially fluid-tight seal can be formed between them. A retention ridge 248 can project radially outwards along the first inner side wall 242 and can extend circumferentially along at least a section thereof. The body 230 further comprises a second inner side wall 250, which extends longitudinally inwards into the body along the end wall 238. The second inner side wall 250 terminates at a lower wall 252, which is approximately planar and arranged transversely to the longitudinal axis AX such that the second inner side wall 250 and the lower wall 252 at least partially define a cavity 254 within the body 230. In some cases, bridge walls 256 can optionally extend between the outer side wall 236 and the second inner side wall 250 and functionally connect them. An inner retaining wall 258 is arranged radially inward from the outer side wall 236 and extends circumferentially around the longitudinal axis AX. In some cases, the inner retaining wall 258 can form a hollow, column-like structure that projects longitudinally along the lower wall 252 toward the end 234. In some cases, the distal end of the outer side wall 236 and / or the distal end of the inner retaining wall 258 can at least partially define a mounting plane MP that is formed along the end 234 of the end element body. In this way, the body 230 can be at least partially held by the outer side wall 236 and / or the inner retaining wall 258, for example, on or along an associated structural element (e.g., the lower structural component LSC in Figs. 2-4).In some cases, the inner retaining wall can, for example, react to axially applied loads or forces transmitted to the lower wall 252, such as impacts exerted on a shock absorber, transmit these forces, or transfer them at least partially to the associated fastening structure in another way. The body 230 may further comprise a central wall 260, which is arranged radially inward from an inner retaining wall 258 and forms a rod-like structure projecting along the lower wall 252 in a direction toward the end 234. In some cases, the central wall 260 may terminate in an approximate alignment with the mounting plane MP, as shown, for example, in Figures 3 and 4. The end element 204 may optionally comprise one or more features or components suitable for use in attaching the end element to or along an associated structural component. As an example, the threaded connector 220 may be in the form of a threaded insert, which may be formed in the central wall 260 or otherwise engaged and held therein, and may be dimensioned to include a suitable threaded fastener (e.g., a threaded rod).to accommodate the threaded fastener 218 for attaching the end element to or along the associated structural component (e.g., the lower structural component LSC). In some cases, a longitudinally extending channel 262 in the central wall 260 may extend along the fastening plane MP such that the threaded fastener can reach and connect to the threaded connector 220 or other suitable device. In some cases, the body 230 of the end element 204 may have a damper attachment 264, which is arranged along the lower wall 252 and projects outwards from the end element body in an axial direction towards the end 232. If the damper attachment 264 is present, it may be dimensioned to receive and hold a stop damper 266, which may also be optionally provided. The stop damper 266 may have any suitable design and may have a distal end 268 with an end face 270 configured to make adjacent contact with the end element 202 or another component in a stop or compression state, as shown, for example, in Fig. 4. It is understood that the stop damper and the damper attachment are only examples and that any other suitable configuration and / or arrangement may be used alternatively. Referring to Fig. 2-8, the end element 202 can now have an end wall 272 and an outer side wall 274, which extends along the end wall 272 towards a distal edge 276. The end wall 272 has an outer circumferential edge 278, and the outer side wall 274 can be spaced inwards from the outer circumferential edge 278 such that a shoulder surface 280 is defined at least partially between the end wall 272 and the outer side wall 274 and can extend circumferentially around the end element 202. The outer side wall 274 can optionally have one or more features arranged along an outer surface 282 thereof, which are suitable for coupling with a surface of the flexible wall 206 in order to improve the retention of the flexible wall and the end element in an assembled state.As an example, the one or more devices arranged on or along the outer surface of the outer side wall 274 can have several axially spaced, endless annular grooves extending inwards into the outer side wall. However, it is clear that other configurations and / or arrangements can be used alternatively. It is clear that the end wall 272 of the end element 202 can have any suitable size, shape, and / or configuration. For example, in some cases, the end wall can be essentially planar or can have one or more essentially planar wall sections. In other cases, the end wall can have one or more non-planar wall sections, such as one or more wall sections with a curved or angularly arranged cross-sectional shape. In such cases, the end wall 272 can have a frustoconical or contoured shape, as shown, for example, in Figures 2-8. In cases where the end wall 272 or one or more sections thereof is not at least approximately planar, as shown, for example, in Figures 2-8, the end element 202 may have a mounting extension 286 which extends at least partially along the end element and forms at least a partial mounting surface for adjacent coupling of an associated structural component (e.g., the upper structural component USC). It is clear that the mounting extension 286 may be configured or defined in any suitable manner. As an example, a mounting wall 288 may extend above the end element 202 between opposing edge walls 290. The mounting wall 288 is shown having a substantially planar (unnumbered) outer surface and is shown in Figures 2-4 in an adjacent coupling with the upper structural component USC.In some cases, the edge walls 290 can be arranged in an approximate alignment with a section of an outer circumferential edge 278 such that the fastening extension 286 extends substantially all the way over the end element 202. Additionally, in some cases, the extension side walls 292 can extend between the end wall 272 and one or more sections of the extension wall 288, functionally connecting them. However, it is clear that other configurations and / or arrangements can be used alternatively. The end wall 272 and the outer side wall 274 can at least partially define an inner cavity 294 of the end element 202. An inner side wall 296 can extend from along the end wall 272, the raised wall 288, and / or the raised side walls 292 into the inner cavity 294. Additionally, a base wall 298 can extend at least partially over the inner side wall 296 to at least partially define an outer cavity 300. It is clear that the inner cavity 294 is shown to be in fluid communication with the spring chamber 208, and that the outer cavity 300 is shown to be located outside the spring chamber and accessible from along the exterior of the gas spring assembly. Furthermore, it is clear that the inner side wall 296 can have any suitable size, shape, and / or configuration. In the exemplary arrangement shown in the figures,In Figures 2-8, the inner side wall 296 is shown to have an essentially cylindrical shape, and the base wall 298 is shown to be essentially planar. However, it is clear that any other suitable configuration can be used alternatively. The base wall 298 is shown extending over the inner side wall 296 and forming a closed end of the outer cavity 300. In a preferred embodiment, the base wall 298 is additionally configured to make contact adjacent to the stop damper 266, so that loads and / or forces associated with compressed states of the gas spring assembly can be transmitted to, from, and / or between end elements 202 and 204 by means of the base wall 298 and the stop damper 266, as shown, for example, in Fig. 4. In some cases, the end element 202 can have one or more connecting walls 302, which can extend between two or more of the end walls 272, the outer side wall 274, the riser walls 288, the edge walls 290, the riser side walls 292, and / or the inner side wall 296, and / or connect them functionally in some other way.One or more such connecting walls 302, if present, can divide the inner cavity 294 into several (unnumbered) chambers or otherwise at least partially divide it. In some cases, projections 304 can be formed within the inner cavity 294, such as between the end wall 272 and one or more of the connecting walls 302, and can at least partially form threaded holes 212. Additionally, one or more channel walls 306 can be formed within the inner cavity 294, such as between the end wall 272 and one or more of the connecting walls 302, and can at least partially form the transmission channel 214. Additionally or alternatively, the end element 202 can have one or more connecting walls 308 extending between the inner side wall 296 and the base wall 298 and / or otherwise functionally connecting them. If provided, one or more such connecting walls 308 can divide the outer cavity 300 into several (unnumbered) chambers or otherwise at least partially partition it. In some cases, one or more of the connecting walls 308 can extend axially along the base wall 298 in an approximate alignment with the raised walls 288. Furthermore, it is clear that the connecting walls 302 and 308 can have any suitable arrangement and / or configuration. As shown, for example, in Figures 3, 4, 5, and 7, some of the connecting walls can have a substantially linear configuration, and other connecting walls can have a curved (e.g.,exhibit a circular configuration. Another example of a gas spring arrangement 400 according to the subject matter of the present disclosure is shown in Figures 9-11 such that it has a longitudinally extending axis AX and can have one or more end elements, such as an end element 402 and an end element 404, which is arranged longitudinally spaced apart from the end element 402. A flexible wall 406 extends circumferentially around the axis AX and can be attached between the end elements in a substantially fluid-tight manner such that a spring chamber 408 is at least partially defined between them. The gas spring assembly 400 can be arranged between an associated sprung and an unsprung mass of an associated vehicle in any suitable manner. For example, one end element can be functionally connected to the associated sprung mass, with the other end element being arranged in the direction of the associated unsprung mass and functionally connected to it. In the arrangement shown in Figures 9-11, for example, the end element 402 is attached along a first or upper structural component USC and can be fastened thereto in any suitable manner. For example, one or more fastening devices, such as threaded fasteners 410, can be functionally engaged with one or more corresponding fastening devices, such as threaded holes 412 (Figures 11 and 12), which are arranged on or along the end element 402.In some cases, one or more fastening devices (e.g., the threaded holes 412) may extend inward into the end element 402 and may be dimensioned to accommodate one or more fastening devices (e.g., the threaded fasteners 410) in a suitable manner and engage them by means of threads. Additionally, one or more fastening devices may extend through fastening holes HLS in the upper structural component USC to engage with the end element 402. Alternatively, one or more fastening bolts (not shown) may protrude from the end element and extend through the one or more fastening holes of the upper structural component USC to accommodate one or more fastening devices, such as threaded nuts (not shown). Optionally, a fluid connection port, such as a transmission channel 414, can be provided to enable a fluid connection with the spring chamber 408, which can be used, for example, to transfer pressurized gas into or out of the spring chamber. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the transmission channel 414 extends through a connecting piece 416 and through the end element 404 into the fluid connection with the spring chamber 408. However, it is clear that any other suitable fluid connection arrangement can be used alternatively. The end element 404 can be fastened along the second or lower structural component LSC in any suitable manner. For example, the lower structural component LSC may have one or more fastening holes HLS extending through it. In such a case, a threaded fastener 418 can be functionally connected to the end element 404 and can extend through one of the fastening holes HLS to engage with a corresponding threaded fitting 420, which, for example, is embedded on or along the end element or is otherwise held in place. It is clear that the one or more end elements can be of any suitable type, design, construction, and / or configuration and can be functionally connected to or otherwise attached to the flexible wall in any suitable manner. In the exemplary arrangement shown in Figures 9-11, for example, the end element 402 is of a type commonly referred to as an upper cap and is connected to a first end 422 of the flexible wall 406. The end element 404 in the exemplary arrangement shown in Figures 9-11 is of a type commonly referred to as a piston (or a rolling piston) having an outer surface 424 which is coupled adjacent to the flexible wall 406 such that a rolling diaphragm 426 is formed along it.While the gas spring assembly 400 is moved between extended and compressed states, the rolling bellows 426 is moved along the outer surface 424 in a conventional manner. As shown in Figures 10 and 11, the end element 404 has a body 428 and extends along a first or upper end 430 towards a second or lower end 432, which is arranged longitudinally spaced from the first end 430. The body 428 has a longitudinally extending outer side wall 434, which extends circumferentially around the axis AX and at least partially defines the outer surface 424. An end wall 436 is arranged transversely to the axis AX and extends radially inwards along a shoulder section 438, which is arranged along the outer side wall towards the end 430. The body 428 further has a first inner side wall 440, which extends longitudinally outwards beyond the end wall 436 and circumferentially around the axis AX.The first inner side wall 440 has an outer surface 442 dimensioned to accommodate a second end 444 of the flexible wall 406 such that a substantially fluid-tight seal can be formed between them. A retention ridge 446 can project radially outwards along the first inner side wall 440 and can extend circumferentially along at least a section thereof. The body 428 further comprises a second inner side wall 448, which extends longitudinally inwards into the body along the end wall 436. The second inner side wall 448 terminates at a lower wall 450, which is approximately planar and arranged transversely to the axis AX such that the second inner side wall 448 and the lower wall 450 at least partially define a cavity 452 within the body 428. In some cases, a bridge wall 454 may optionally extend between the outer side wall 434 and the second inner side wall 448, functionally connecting them. An inner support wall 456 is arranged radially inward from the outer side wall 434 and extends circumferentially around the axis AX. In some cases, the inner support wall 456 can form a hollow, column-like structure that projects longitudinally along the lower wall 450 toward the end 432. In some cases, the distal end of the outer side wall 434 and / or the distal end of the inner support wall 456 can at least partially define a mounting plane MP1 that is formed along the end 432 of the end element body. In this way, the body 428 can be held at least partially by the outer side wall 434 and / or the inner support wall 456, such as on or along an associated structural element (e.g., the lower structural component LSC).In some cases, the inner support wall can react to axially applied loads or forces transmitted to the lower wall 450, such as impacts exerted on a shock absorber, and these forces can be transferred or otherwise at least partially transferred to the associated fastening structure. The body 428 may further comprise a central wall 458, which is arranged radially inward from the inner support wall 456 and forms a rod-like structure projecting along the lower wall 450 in a direction toward the end 432. In some cases, the central wall 458 may terminate in an approximate orientation to the mounting plane MP1, as shown, for example, in Figures 10 and 11. The end element 404 may optionally comprise one or more features or components suitable for use in attaching the end element to or along an associated structural component. As an example, the threaded attachment 420 may take the form of an internal thread, which may be formed within the central wall 458 or otherwise held and retained, and may be dimensioned to accommodate a suitable threaded fastener (e.g., a screw or bolt).the threaded fastener 418) for fastening the end element to or along the associated structural component (e.g., the lower structural component LSC). In some cases, a longitudinally extending channel 460 may extend from along the mounting plate MP1 into the central wall 458 such that the threaded fastener can reach and engage the threaded attachment 420 or other suitable device. In some cases, the body 428 of the end element 404 may have a damper attachment 462, which is arranged along the lower wall 450 and projects outwards in an axial direction towards the end 430 of the end element body. If the damper attachment 462 is provided, it may be dimensioned to receive and retain a stop damper 464, which may also be optionally provided. The stop damper 464 may have any suitable design and may have a distal end 466 with an end surface 468 configured to make adjacent contact with the end element 402 or another component in a stop or compressed state, as shown, for example, in Fig. 4 in conjunction with the stop damper 266.It is clear that the impact damper and damper mounting are only examples and that any other suitable configuration and / or arrangement may be used alternatively. Referring to Figures 9-12, the end element 402 can now have an end wall 470, a base wall 472 arranged axially spaced from the end wall, and a side wall 474 extending between the end wall 470 and the base wall 472. The end wall 470 has an outer circumferential edge 476, and the side wall 474 can be spaced inwards from the outer circumferential edge 476 such that an area 478 is defined at least partially along the end wall 470 between the outer circumferential edge and the side wall 474, which is dimensioned to couple at least a section of the flexible wall 406 adjacently. The side wall 474 can extend longitudinally outwards from the end wall 470 and circumferentially around the axis AX in a direction towards the end element 404.The side wall 474 can have an outer surface 480 dimensioned to accommodate the second end 422 of the flexible wall 406 such that a substantially fluid-tight seal can be formed between them. In some cases, the ends 422 and / or 444 can have a (non-numbered) fastening bead formed along an end section of the flexible wall 406. In such cases, one or more fastening beads can have a reinforcing element, such as a (non-numbered) wire. Additionally, a retaining ridge 482 can optionally project radially outward along the side wall 474 and can extend circumferentially along at least one section thereof. It is clear that the end wall 470 of the end element 402 can have any suitable size, shape, and / or configuration. For example, in some cases, the end wall can be essentially planar or can have one or more essentially planar wall sections. In other cases, the end wall can have one or more non-planar wall sections, such as one or more wall sections with a curved or angularly arranged cross-sectional shape. In such cases, the end wall 470 can have a frustoconical or contoured shape, as shown, for example, in Figures 9-12. Additionally, the end element 402 can have an outer edge wall 484, which is arranged along or at least adjacent to the outer circumferential edge 476 of the end wall 470.In some cases, the outer edge wall 484 can project along the end wall 470 in a direction away from the base wall 472 and can form at least partially one or more recesses 486 along the end wall 470. In cases where the end wall 470 or one or more sections thereof is / are not at least approximately planar, as shown, for example, in Figures 9-12, the end element 402 can have a mounting extension 488 which extends at least partially along the end element and forms at least a partial mounting surface for adjacent coupling of an associated structural component (e.g., the upper structural component USC). It is clear that the mounting extension 488 can be configured or otherwise defined in any suitable manner. As an example, extension side walls 490 can extend over the end element 402 in a direction transverse to the axis AX.Additionally, raised edge walls 492 can be arranged adjacent to the outer circumferential edge 476 and can extend in a direction transverse to the axis AX and between the raised side walls 490 to define at least partial raised recesses 494 along the end wall 470 of the end element 402. The raised side walls 490 extend along an outer surface 496 of the end wall 470 to a distal end surface 498. Additionally, or alternatively, the raised edge walls 492 can extend from along the outer surface 496 of the end wall 470 to a distal end surface 500. In a preferred arrangement, the distal end surfaces 498 and / or 500 can at least partially define a mounting plane MP2 along the end element 402, which is dimensioned to couple an adjacent associated structural element (e.g., the upper structural component USC). In some cases, one or more raised inner walls 502 can be arranged between raised side walls 490 and can extend from along the outer surface 496 of the end wall 470 in a direction toward the mounting plane MP2.In some cases, the inner walls of the extensions 502 may have a distal end surface 504 which is arranged in an approximate orientation to the mounting plane MP2. In other cases, however, the distal end surface of the inner walls of the extensions may be arranged at a distance from the mounting plane, for example in an axial direction towards the end wall 470. The end element 402 may optionally include one or more features or components suitable for use in fastening the end element to or along an associated structural component. For example, threaded holes 412 may be defined, at least partially, by one or more threaded inserts 506, which are in the form of internal threads that may be formed within a projection 508 or other wall section of the end wall 470 and / or one or more of the raised inner walls 502, or otherwise held and retained. The threaded inserts 506 may be dimensioned to accommodate a suitable threaded fastener (e.g., a threaded fastener 410) for fastening the end element to or along the associated structural component (e.g., the upper structural component USC). The end element 402 may optionally have inner edge walls 510 extending along the end wall 470 and extending at least partially around the axis AX. If provided, the inner edge walls 510 may project along the outer surface 496 in a direction toward the mounting plane MP2. In some cases, the inner edge walls 510 may terminate at distal end surfaces 512, which in some cases may be arranged in an approximate orientation to the mounting plane MP2. Additionally, the end element 402 may optionally have one or more connecting walls 514 projecting along the outer surface 496 of the end wall 470 in a direction toward the mounting plane MP2. It is understood that the one or more connecting walls may have any suitable size, shape, and / or configuration.As an example, several connecting walls 514 are shown, which extend in a substantially radial orientation between the inner edge walls 510 and the outer edge wall 484. However, other configurations and / or arrangements can be used alternatively. As shown in Figures 10 and 11, the base wall 472 extends transversely to the axis AX and substantially over the side wall 474 such that an outer cavity 516 is formed at least partially along the outer surface of the end element 402. In a preferred embodiment, the base wall 472 is dimensioned or otherwise configured to couple the stop damper 464 adjacently, so that loads and / or forces associated with compressed states of the gas spring assembly can be transmitted to, from, and / or between the end elements 402 and 404 by means of the base wall 472 and the stop damper 464, as is shown, for example, in Figure 4 in conjunction with the stop damper 266. The end element 402 can have one or more connecting walls 518, which can extend between the base wall 472, the side wall 474, and / or the inner edge walls 510, and / or otherwise functionally connect them to one another. If provided, one or more such connecting walls 518 can divide the outer cavity 516 into several (unnumbered) chambers or otherwise at least partially divide it. In some cases, one or more connecting walls 518 can extend axially along the damper mounting 462 in an approximate alignment with the distal edge surfaces of the raised side walls 490 and / or raised edge walls 492, such as in an approximate alignment with the mounting plane MP2. It is also clear that the connecting walls 518 can have any suitable arrangement and / or configuration. As shown, for example, in the figures...As shown in Figures 10-12, some of the connecting walls can have a curved (e.g., circular) configuration. Furthermore, the end elements 402 can have one or more channel walls 520, which can at least partially form the transmission channel 414. Another example of a gas spring assembly 400' according to the subject matter of the present disclosure is shown in Figures 13 and 14. It is clear that the gas spring assembly 400' is similar to the gas spring assembly 400 previously shown and described in connection with Figures 9-11. Therefore, similar items will be identified and designated by similar reference numerals, and new or different items will be identified by new reference numerals or reference numerals with a dash ('). The gas spring assembly 400' is shown having a longitudinally extending axis AX and can have one or more end elements, such as an end element 600 and an end element 404, which is arranged longitudinally spaced from the end element 600. A flexible wall 406 can extend circumferentially around the axis AX and can be attached between the end elements in a substantially fluid-tight manner such that a spring chamber 408 is at least partially defined between them. The gas spring assembly 400' can be arranged between an associated sprung and an unsprung mass of an associated vehicle in any suitable manner. For example, one end element can be functionally connected to the associated sprung mass, with the other end element being arranged in the direction of the associated unsprung mass and thus functionally connected to it. In the arrangement shown in Figures 13 and 14, for example, the end element 600 is attached along the first or upper structural component USC and can be fastened to it in any suitable manner. For example, one or more fastening devices, such as threaded fasteners 602, can be functionally coupled to one or more associated fastening devices, such as threaded holes 604 (Figure 14), which are arranged on or along the end element 600.In some cases, one or more fastening devices (e.g., the threaded holes 604) may extend inward into the end element 600 and may be dimensioned to accommodate one or more fastening devices (e.g., the threaded fasteners 602) in a suitable manner and couple them by thread. Additionally, one or more such fastening devices may extend through fastening holes HLS in the upper structural component USC to engage with the end element 600. Alternatively, one or more fastening bolts (not shown) may protrude from the end element and extend through the one or more fastening holes of the upper structural component to accommodate one or more fastening devices, such as threaded nuts (not shown). Additionally, a fluid connection port, such as a transmission channel 606, can optionally be provided to enable a fluid connection with the spring chamber 408, which can be used, for example, to transfer pressurized gas into and / or out of the spring chamber. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the transmission channel 606 extends through a connecting piece 608 and through the end element 600 into a fluid connection with the spring chamber 408. However, it is clear that any other suitable fluid connection arrangement can be used alternatively. As previously described, the end element 404 can be fastened along the second or lower structural component LSC in any suitable manner. For example, the lower structural component LSC can have one or more fastening holes HLS extending through it. In such a case, a threaded fastener 418 can be functionally connected to the end element 404 and can extend through one of the fastening holes HLS to engage with a corresponding threaded attachment 420, which, for example, is embedded on or along the end element or otherwise held in place. Additionally, the end element 404 is shown in the exemplary arrangement in Figs. 13 and 44.Figure 14 shows a type commonly referred to as a piston (or rolling piston) having an outer surface 424 coupled adjacent to the flexible wall 406, such that a rolling diaphragm 426 is formed along it. As the gas spring assembly 400 is moved between extended and compressed states, the rolling diaphragm 426 is moved along the outer surface 424 in a conventional manner. In the exemplary arrangement shown in Figures 13 and 14, for example, the end element 600 is of a type commonly referred to as an upper cap and is attached to a first end 422 of the flexible wall 406. Referring to Figures 13-19, the end element 600 can now have an end wall 610, a base wall 612 arranged axially spaced from the end wall, and a side wall 614 extending between the end wall 610 and the base wall 612. The end wall 610 has an outer circumferential edge 616. The side wall 614 can be spaced inwards from the outer circumferential edge 616 such that a surface 618 is defined at least partially along the end wall 610 between the outer circumferential edge and the side wall 614. The area 618 can be dimensioned to couple at least one section of the flexible wall 406 adjacent to it.The side wall 614 can extend longitudinally outwards from the end wall 610 and circumferentially around the longitudinal axis AX in one direction towards the end element 404. The side wall 614 can have an outer surface 620 dimensioned to accommodate the second end 422 of the flexible wall 406 such that a substantially fluid-tight seal can be formed between them. In some cases, a retention ridge 622 can optionally project radially outwards along the side wall 614 and can extend circumferentially along at least a section thereof. It is clear that the end wall 610 of the end element 600 can have any suitable size, shape, and / or configuration. For example, in some cases, the end wall 610 can be essentially planar or can have one or more essentially planar wall sections. In other cases, the end wall 610 can have one or more non-planar wall sections, such as one or more wall sections with a curved or angular cross-sectional shape. In such cases, the end wall 610 can have a frustoconical or contoured shape, as shown, for example, in Figures 13-19. Additionally, the end element 600 can have an outer edge wall 624, which is arranged along or at least adjacent to an outer circumferential edge 616 of the end wall 610.In some cases, the outer edge wall 624 may project along the end wall 610 in a direction away from the base wall 612 and may form at least partially one or more recesses along the end wall 610. According to the invention, the end element 600 has a mounting channel 628 which extends at least partially along the end element and is dimensioned to accommodate and adjacently couple at least a section of an associated structural component (e.g., the upper structural component USC). An associated structural component is to be accommodated at least partially within the mounting channel. The mounting channel is dimensioned and / or otherwise configured to align or otherwise position the end element and the gas spring assembly relative to the associated structural component. In addition, such a configuration assists in holding the end element and the gas spring assembly in the desired orientation by providing anti-rotation properties in addition to added strength and retention. It is clear that such a fastening channel can have any suitable size, shape, configuration, and / or construction to provide the aforementioned and / or other features. Additionally, the fastening channel can be formed by any suitable combination of walls, wall sections, and / or surfaces, or otherwise at least partially defined. For example, the end element 600 can have a channel underside surface 630 that extends across the end element in a longitudinal direction transverse to the longitudinal axis AX and in a lateral direction between opposing side surfaces 632. In a preferred embodiment, at least the underside surface 630 of the mounting channel 628 can be substantially planar and can at least partially define a mounting plane MP3 along the end element 600, which is dimensioned to couple an associated structural element (e.g., the upper structural component USC) adjacent to it. Additionally, in such a preferred arrangement, channel side surfaces can be arranged transversely to the underside surface 630 and can be substantially planar such that the mounting channel 628 can have a uniform cross-sectional size and shape along its length. The channel side walls 634 can project outwards beyond the underside surface 630 in a direction opposite to the base wall 612 to a distal or upper edge 636. In such a case, the channel side walls 634 can have side surfaces 632 and / or otherwise define them at least partially. The end element 600 may optionally include one or more features or components suitable for use in attaching the end element to or along an associated structural component. For example, one or more threaded holes 638 (only one of which is shown) may be defined, at least partially, by one or more threaded attachments 640 (only one of which is shown), which may be in the form of internal threads formed within a projection 642 or other wall section of the end element 600, or otherwise retained and held in place. The threaded attachments 640 may be dimensioned to accommodate a suitable threaded fastener (e.g., a threaded fastener 602) for attaching the end element to or along the associated structural component (e.g., the upper structural component USC). As previously described, it is clear that the channel underside surface 630 of the fastening channel 628 can be formed or otherwise defined in any suitable manner and by any combination of walls, wall sections, and / or surfaces. For example, the end element 600 can have several internal support walls 644 extending along the base wall 612 and terminating at distal ends 646, which together define at least part of the channel underside surface 630. Additionally, it is clear that the internal support walls 644 can extend along and / or over the end element in any suitable manner, for example, by having one or more approximately linear wall sections, one or more curved wall sections, and / or any combination of linear and curved wall sections.Furthermore, it is clear that the inner support walls 644 can extend in any suitable orientation or combination of orientations, or can be arranged in any other way, such as by extending approximately in an orientation to the longitudinal direction of the fastening channel 628, a lateral orientation relative to the longitudinal direction of the fastening channel, a diagonal orientation to the longitudinal orientation of the fastening channel, and / or a curvilinear orientation relative to the longitudinal orientation of the fastening channel. In some cases, the inner support walls 644 can at least partially define several cavities 648 which are formed in the channel underside surface 630 or are otherwise accessible along it. It is clear that such cavities, if present, can have any suitable size, shape, configuration, and / or arrangement.Additionally, the end element 600 can have several outer support walls 650 extending along the end wall 610 and terminating at distal ends 652, which together define at least partially an outer surface shape of at least one section of the end element 600. It is clear that the outer support walls 650 can extend along and / or over the end element in any suitable manner, for example, by having one or more approximately linear wall sections, one or more curved wall sections, and / or any combination of linear and curved wall sections.Furthermore, it is clear that the outer support walls 650 can extend in any suitable orientation or combination of orientations, or can be arranged otherwise, for example, by extending in an approximate orientation to the longitudinal direction of the fastening channel 628, in a lateral orientation relative to the longitudinal orientation of the fastening channel, in a diagonal orientation to the longitudinal orientation of the fastening channel, and / or in a curvilinear orientation relative to the longitudinal orientation of the fastening channel. In some cases, the outer support walls 650 can define at least several cavities 654, which may be accessible from along the outer surface of the end element 600. It is clear that such cavities, if present, can have any suitable size, shape, configuration, and / or arrangement. As shown in Figures 13-19, the base wall 612 extends transversely to the longitudinal axis AX and is dimensioned or otherwise configured in a preferred arrangement to couple an adjacent stop damper 464 such that loads and / or forces associated with compressed states of the gas spring assembly can be transmitted to, from, and / or between end elements 600 and 404 by means of the base wall 612 and the stop damper 464, as shown, for example, in Figure 4 in conjunction with the stop damper 266. It is clear that in the configuration shown, loads and / or forces associated with contact between the stop damper 464 and the base wall 612 can be supplied to the associated structural component (e.g., the upper structural component USC) or otherwise transmitted by means of the inner support walls 644. In some cases, the base wall 612 can extend over the end element and be directly connected to the side wall inwards from its outer surface. In other cases, the end element 600 can have an inner side wall 656, which is arranged radially inwards from the side wall 614 such that a cavity 658 extending into the end element is at least partially formed between them. In some cases, a connecting wall section 660 can extend between the side wall 614 and the inner side wall 656, functionally connecting them. Alternatively, in some cases, the connecting wall can take the form of a radial inwards section of the end wall 610. In each of these cases, the base wall 612 can extend over the end element and be directly connected to the inner side wall 656, so that the base wall terminates in a radially spaced relationship to the side wall 614.In some cases, the end element 600 may have one or more connecting walls 662 extending between the base wall 612, the side wall 614, the inner side wall 656, and / or the connecting wall section 660 or a corresponding section of the end wall 610, and / or otherwise functionally connecting them to one another. If present, one or more such connecting walls 662 may divide the outer cavity 658 into several (unnumbered) chambers or otherwise at least partially divide it. It is clear that an end element according to the subject matter of this disclosure can be formed or otherwise manufactured from any suitable material or combination of materials. However, in a preferred arrangement, the end element 202, 204, 402, 404 and / or 600 can be formed from a non-metallic material, such as a thermoplastic or thermoset material. Examples of suitable non-metallic materials from which one or more of the end elements 202, 204, 402, 404 and / or 600 can be formed include thermoplastic materials such as glass- or fiber-reinforced polypropylene, glass- or fiber-reinforced polyamide, and high-strength (e.g., unfilled) polyester, polyethylene, polypropylene, or other polyether-based materials, or any combination thereof. Numerical designations (e.g., first, second, third, fourth, etc.) as used herein with reference to specific features, elements, components, and / or structures may be used to designate different parts from a plurality or to otherwise designate specific features, elements, components, and / or structures, and do not imply any order or sequence unless specifically defined by the wording of the claim. Additionally, the terms "transverse" and the like are to be interpreted broadly. The terms "transverse" and the like may therefore include, but are not limited to, a variety of relative angular orientations, including an approximately perpendicular angular orientation. Likewise, the terms "peripheral," "circumferential," and the like are to be interpreted broadly and may include, but are not limited to, circular shapes and / or configurations.In this respect, the terms “circumferential”, “in circumferential direction” and the like can be synonymous with terms such as “peripheral”, “in peripheral direction” and the like. Furthermore, the term "gas" is used herein to refer generally to gaseous or vaporous fluids. Air is typically used as the working fluid for gas spring devices as described herein, as well as for suspension systems and other components thereof. However, it is understood that any other suitable gaseous fluid may be used as an alternative. It is clear that the embodiments presented and described herein contain a multitude of different features and / or components, and that it is possible that no single embodiment is specifically presented and described which includes all such features and components. Therefore, it should be clear that the subject matter of this disclosure is intended to encompass all possible combinations of the different features and components shown and described herein, and that, without limitation, any suitable arrangement of features and components in any combination may be used. It is thus particularly clear that claims relating to any such combination of features and / or components are intended to be supported by this disclosure, regardless of whether they are specifically included herein in the form of an embodiment or not. Although the subject matter of this disclosure has been described with reference to the preceding embodiments, with particular emphasis on the structures and structural interactions between the component parts of the disclosed embodiment, it is clear that other embodiments can be developed and many modifications can be made to the embodiments presented and described without departing from the underlying principles. Such modifications and changes may become apparent to others upon reading and understanding the preceding detailed description. Therefore, it is emphasized that the preceding description is intended to be interpreted merely as illustrative of the subject matter of this disclosure and not as limiting it. Consequently, the subject matter of this disclosure is to be interpreted as encompassing all such modifications and changes.

Claims

End element (202, 402, 600) with an axis (AX) and dimensioned to couple an end (222, 422) of an associated flexible wall (206, 406) of an associated gas spring assembly (200), wherein the end element (202, 402, 600) comprises: an end wall (272, 610) extending outwards in a direction transverse to the axis (AX) towards an outer circumferential edge (278), wherein the end wall (272, 610) has an end wall surface dimensioned to couple adjacently to the associated flexible wall (206, 406); a side wall (274, 614) extending from the end wall (272, 610) in an axial direction and dimensioned to accommodate an end (222, 422) of the associated flexible wall (206, 406) to couple receiving;a base wall (298, 612) which extends outwards in a direction transverse to the axis (AX), wherein the base wall (298, 612) is arranged in an axially offset relation to the end wall (272, 610) such that the base wall (298, 612) can couple an associated stop damper (266) adjacent to it, and such that at least one cavity (294) is formed along the end wall (272, 610), wherein the at least one cavity (294) is accessible from along one side of the end wall (272, 610) opposite the base wall (298, 612);and a fastening channel (628) which extends into and over the end element (202, 402, 600) and defines at least a fastening surface for receiving coupling of an associated structural component (USC), wherein the fastening channel (628) is dimensioned to receive coupling of the associated structural component (USC) and to prevent rotation of the end element (202, 402, 600) relative to the associated structural component (USC), wherein at least the end wall (272, 610), the side wall (274, 614) and the base wall (298, 612) of the end element (202, 402, 600) are formed from a uniform amount of polymer material. End element (202, 402, 600) according to claim 1, wherein the fastening channel (628) extends completely over the end element (202, 402, 600). End element (202, 402, 600) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the fastening channel (628) is defined at least partially by a channel underside surface (630) which extends in a longitudinal direction over the end element (202, 402, 600), a first side surface (632) which extends in the longitudinal direction over the end element (202, 402, 600), and a second side surface (632) which is arranged laterally spaced from the first side surface (632) and extends longitudinally over the end element (202, 402, 600). End element (202, 402, 600) according to claim 3, wherein the channel underside surface (630) is arranged in an axially offset relation to the end wall (272, 610) in a direction opposite to the base wall (298, 612). End element (202, 402, 600) according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the channel underside surface (630), the first side surface (632) and the second side surface (632) are arranged in such a way as to ensure that the fastening channel (628) has an approximately constant cross-sectional size and shape in the longitudinal direction over the end element (202, 402, 600). End element (202, 402, 600) according to one of claims 3 - 5, further comprising several inner connecting wall sections (660) which project axially from along the end wall (272, 610) and / or the base wall (298, 612) in an axial direction away from the base wall (298, 612) and in the direction of a distal edge, wherein the channel underside surface (630) is defined at least partially by the distal edge of the inner connecting wall sections (660). End element (202, 402, 600) according to one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the side wall (274, 614) has an outer surface (620) which is dimensioned to form a fluid-tight seal with the end (222, 422) of the associated flexible wall (206, 406). End element (202, 402, 600) according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the side wall (274, 614) has a retaining elevation (622) which projects radially outwards along the side wall (274, 614) and circumferentially by at least a section thereof. End element (202, 402, 600) according to one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising an attachment piece (640) with thread which is held and retained within a projection (642) which is formed along the base wall (298, 612) and is accessible from along the mounting surface of the mounting channel (628). End element (202, 402, 600) according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the fastening channel (628) is defined at least partially by a channel underside surface (630) which extends in a longitudinal direction over the end element (202, 402, 600), and wherein the end element (202, 402, 600) further comprises several internal support walls (644) which extend from along the base wall (298, 612) and terminate at distal ends (646) which together define at least partially the channel underside surface (630). End element (202, 402, 600) according to claim 10, wherein the multiple inner support walls (644) define at least partially multiple cavities (648) which are accessible from along the channel underside surface (630). End element (202, 402, 600) according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the fastening channel (628) has a channel underside surface (630) and first and second channel side walls (634) which project outwards beyond the channel underside surface (630) in a direction opposite to the base wall (298, 612) to a distal edge (636). End element (202, 402, 600) according to one of claims 1 to 12, further comprising several outer support walls (650) which extend along the end wall (272, 610) and terminate at distal ends (652) which together define at least partially an outer surface shape of at least one section of the end element (202, 402, 600). Gas spring arrangement (200) comprising: a flexible wall (206, 406) which is at least partially made of an elastomeric material and has a longitudinal axis (AX), wherein the flexible wall (206, 406) extends circumferentially around the longitudinal axis (AX) and longitudinally between opposite first (246) and second (222) ends to define at least a spring chamber (208); a first end element (204) which is attached above the first end (246) of the flexible wall (206, 406) in a fluid-tight manner; a stop damper (266) which is arranged inside the spring chamber (208) and is attached along the first end element (204); and a second end element (202, 402, 600) according to one of claims 1 - 13, wherein the second end element (202, 402, 600) is attached over the second end (222) of the flexible wall (206, 406) in a fluid-tight manner. Suspension system (100) comprising: a pressurized gas system (104) comprising a pressurized gas source (106) and a valve arrangement (108); and at least one gas spring arrangement (200) according to claim 14, which is arranged in a fluid connection with the pressurized gas source (106) via the valve arrangement (108).

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