Exhaust valve damper

Abstract

Snap-action valve arrangement (101) for an outlet system comprising the following: a line (100) that defines an exhaust gas passage therein; a valve flap (145) which is arranged in the exhaust gas passage to control the exhaust gas flow through the exhaust gas passage; a shaft (104) which supports the valve flap (145) in the exhaust gas passage for rotation about a pivot axis (130); a vibration damper (102, 202, 302, 302', 402, 502, 602, 702) outside the line (100), which is rotatably coupled to the shaft (104) so ​​that the vibration damper (102, 202, 302, 302', 402, 502, 602, 702) rotates with the shaft (104), wherein the vibration damper (102, 202, 302, 302', 402, 502, 602, 702) comprises a longitudinal segment (204, 304, 304', 404, 504, 604, 704) which is rotatably coupled to the shaft (104) and which extends between a first (210, 310, 310', 410, 510, 610, 710) and a second (212, 312, 312', 412, 512, 612, 712) coiled end; wherein the longitudinal segment (204, 304, 304', 404, 504, 604, 704) comprises an inner side (270, 370, 470, 570, 670, 770) facing the line (100) and an outer side (280, 380, 480, 580, 680, 780) facing away from the line (100); and the first (210, 310, 310', 410, 510, 610, 710) and the second (212, 312, 312', 412, 512, 612, 712) coiled end comprising a series of superimposed layers (214a-d, 314a-e, 414a-c, 514a-c, 614a-b, 714a-b), wherein at least one layer of the series of superimposed layers (214a-d, 314a-e, 414a-c, 514a-c, 614a-b, 714a-b) extends over a section of the inner side (270, 370, 470, 570, 670, 770) of the longitudinal segment (204, 304, 304', 404, 504, 604, 704) at the first (210, 310, 310', 410, 510, 610, 710) and the second (212, 312, 312', 412, 512, 612, 712) coiled end and at least one layer of the series of overburden layers (214a-d, 314a-e, 414a-c, 514a-c, 614a-b, 714a-b) extends over a section of the outer side (280, 380, 480, 580, 680, 780) of the longitudinal segment (204, 304, 304', 404, 504, 604, 704) extends at the first (210, 310, 310', 410, 510, 610, 710) and the second (212, 312, 312', 412, 512, 612, 712) coiled end.

Description

AREA

[0001] The present disclosure relates to valve arrangements used in an exhaust system of a vehicle and to methods for manufacturing such valve arrangements. BACKGROUND

[0002] This section provides background information on the present disclosure, which is not necessarily the prior art.

[0003] Many vehicle exhaust systems utilize active and / or passive valve arrangements to modify the characteristics of the exhaust flow through a pipe as exhaust pressure increases due to rising engine speed. Such valves can be used to reduce low-frequency noise by directing exhaust gas past mufflers or other exhaust system components. For example, valves can redirect the exhaust flow around obstructions that create turbulence, which absorbs low-frequency sound energy. Active valves come with the added cost of a required specialized actuating element, such as a solenoid. Passive valves, on the other hand, generally incorporate a spring-loaded valve flap and utilize the pressure of the exhaust flow in the pipe to actuate (i.e., open) the valve.Valves of this design are known, for example, from DE 11 2010 002 064 T5 and US 2018 / 0326837 A1, these disclosed valve designs being characterized in particular by a damping element and a return spring designed as a preload element. Although passive valves are less expensive, conventional passive valves generate undesirable back pressure when the valve is open, are difficult to manufacture, and are prone to vibration-related noise and excessive valve flutter caused by fluctuations in the engine exhaust flow (i.e., exhaust pulsation). Such valves can exhibit vibration and noise problems due to the resonance of the valve flap and the preload spring. Consequently, there remains a need for passive valves that are quieter and less expensive to manufacture than conventional passive valves. SUMMARY

[0004] This section provides a general summary of the disclosure and is not a comprehensive disclosure of its entire scope of protection or all of its features.

[0005] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a snap-action valve assembly is provided for an exhaust system. The snap-action valve assembly comprises a duct defining an exhaust gas passage. A valve flap is arranged in the exhaust gas passage for controlling the exhaust gas flow through the exhaust gas passage. A shaft supports the valve flap in the exhaust gas passage and allows the valve flap to rotate in the exhaust gas passage about a pivot axis between a closed position and an open position. The snap-action valve assembly further comprises a vibration damper positioned outside (i.e., external to) the duct. The vibration damper extends between a first and a second helical end and comprises a longitudinal segment that is rotatably coupled to the shaft. The longitudinal segment comprises an inner side facing the duct and an outer side facing away from the duct.The first and second coiled ends comprise a series of overlapping layers.

[0006] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, at least one layer of the series of superimposed layers extends over (i.e., superimposes) the inner side of the longitudinal segment at the first and second coiled ends. Furthermore, at least one layer of the series of superimposed layers extends over (i.e., superimposes) the outer side of the longitudinal segment at the first and second coiled ends.

[0007] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the series of superimposed layers has a spiral shape at both the first and the second coiled ends. Each layer of the series of superimposed layers has a first side and a second side. Due to the spiral shape of the first and the second coiled ends, the first side of a layer abuts the second side of an adjacent layer.

[0008] Advantageously, the vibration dampers of the snap-action valve arrangement disclosed herein provide improved damping of vibration-related harmonics and excessive valve flutter caused by fluctuations in the engine exhaust flow (i.e., exhaust pulsation). Furthermore, the vibration dampers disclosed herein have an improved appearance and are less expensive to manufacture than conventional designs. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Further advantages of the present disclosure will readily become apparent upon gaining a better understanding by referring to the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings; the drawings show: Fig. 1 a top view of a silencer in which a snap valve assembly is attached and fitted with a vibration damper; Fig. 2 a cross-sectional view of a silencer in which a snap valve assembly equipped with a vibration damper is housed, according to the teachings of the present disclosure from above; Fig. 3 a perspective side view of an exemplary vibration damper constructed according to the teachings of the present disclosure; Fig. 4 a side view of the exemplary vibration damper, which is in Fig. 3 is shown; Fig. 5 a side view of an exemplary raw part for the in Fig. 3 vibration damper shown, which is depicted before the formation of the first and second helical ends; Fig. 6 a cross-sectional view of the in Fig. 4 exemplary vibration damper shown along section line 6-6 from above; Fig. 7 a cross-sectional end view of the in Fig. 4 exemplary vibration damper shown along section line 7-7; Fig. 8 a perspective side view of another exemplary vibration damper constructed according to the teachings of the present disclosure; Fig. 9 a side view of the exemplary vibration damper, which is in Fig. 8 is shown; Fig. 10 a side view of an exemplary raw part for the in Fig. 8 vibration damper shown, which is depicted before the formation of the first and second helical ends; Fig. 11 a top view of the in Fig. 9 exemplary vibration dampers shown; Fig. 12 a perspective side view of another exemplary vibration damper constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure; Fig. 13 a side view of the in Fig. 12 exemplary vibration dampers shown; Fig. 14 a side view of an exemplary raw part for the in Fig. 12 vibration damper shown, which is depicted before the formation of the first and second helical ends; Fig. 15 a top view of the in Fig. 12 exemplary vibration dampers shown; Fig. 16 a perspective side view of another exemplary vibration damper constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure; Fig. 17 a side view of the in Fig. 16 exemplary vibration dampers shown; Fig. 18 a side view of an exemplary raw part for the in Fig. 16 vibration damper shown, which is depicted before the formation of the first and second helical ends; Fig. 19 a top view of the in Fig. 16 exemplary vibration dampers shown; Fig. 20 a perspective side view of another exemplary vibration damper constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure; Fig. 21 a side view of the in Fig. 20 exemplary vibration dampers shown; Fig. 22 a side view of an exemplary raw part for the in Fig. 20 vibration damper shown, which is depicted before the formation of the first and second helical ends; Fig. 23 an end view of the in Fig. 20 exemplary vibration dampers shown; Fig. 24 a perspective side view of another exemplary vibration damper constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure; Fig. 25 a side view of the in Fig. 24 exemplary vibration dampers shown; Fig. 26 a side view of an exemplary raw part for the in Fig. 24 vibration damper shown, which is depicted before the formation of the first and second helical ends; Fig. 27 an end view of the in Fig. 24 exemplary vibration dampers shown; Fig. 28 a perspective side view of another exemplary vibration damper constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure; Fig. 29 a side view of an exemplary raw part for the in Fig. 28 vibration damper shown, which is depicted before the formation of the first and second helical ends; and Fig. 30 an end view of the in Fig. 28 exemplary vibration dampers shown.

[0010] Matching reference symbols indicate parts that correspond across different views of the drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0011] Exemplary embodiments will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0012] Exemplary embodiments are provided so that this disclosure is thorough and fully conveys the scope of protection to the person skilled in the art. Numerous specific details are given, such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments of this disclosure. It is obvious to the person skilled in the art that the specific details need not be used, that exemplary embodiments can be implemented in many different forms, and that none should be interpreted as limiting the scope of protection of the disclosure. In some exemplary embodiments, well-known methods, well-known device structures, and well-known technologies are not described in detail.

[0013] The terminology used here serves only to describe certain exemplary embodiments and should not be understood as a limitation. As used here, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to possibly also include the plural forms, unless the context explicitly indicates otherwise. The expressions "comprises," "include," "contain," and "exhibit" are meant inclusively and therefore indicate the presence of the listed features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0014] When an element or layer is described as "at," "interacting with," "connected with," or "coupled with" another element or layer, it may be directly adjacent to, interacting with, connected with, or coupled to that other element or layer, or there may be intervening elements or layers. Conversely, when an element is described as "directly adjacent to," "directly interacting with," "directly connected with," or "directly coupled with" another element or layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers. Any other wording used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted similarly (for example, "between" versus "directly between," "next to" versus "directly beside," etc.).The term "adjacent" means that a structure is in contact with or very close to another structure. As used here, the term "and / or" encompasses any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed objects.

[0015] Although the terms first, second, third, etc., may be used here to describe various elements, components, areas, layers, and / or sections, these elements, components, areas, layers, and / or sections should not be restricted by these terms. These terms may only be used to distinguish one element, component, area, layer, or section from another. Terms such as "first," "second," and other numerical terms used here do not imply any sequence or order unless this is clear from the context.Thus, a first element, component, region, layer, or section discussed below could be referred to as a second element, component, region, layer, or section without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments. The terms "helical end" and "helical ends" used here are intended to describe curved, folded, serpentine, and spiral shapes and are therefore not limited to structures wound around a central axis.

[0016] With reference to Fig. 1 and Fig. Figure 2 shows an exhaust system in the form of a silencer 10. The silencer 10 comprises a pipe 100 and a snap-action valve assembly 101. The pipe 100 extends within the silencer 10 to define an exhaust gas passage. The snap-action valve assembly 101 is equipped with a vibration damper 102 located outside the pipe 100, which is attached to a first end 103 of a shaft 104. The shaft 104 extends through the pipe 100 from the first end 103 to a second end 105. A preload element 106, also located outside the pipe 100, extends between the second end 105 of the shaft 104 and a mounting post 107, which is coupled to the pipe 100. The vibration damper 102 is rotationally coupled to the shaft 104, so that the vibration damper 102 rotates with the shaft 104. Although other configurations are possible, the preload element 106 in the example shown is a coil spring.

[0017] The silencer 10 comprises a housing 108, which is closed at both ends by an outlet collector 28 and an inlet collector 30. The pipe 100 is positioned within the silencer 10 and extends completely through the housing 108 of the silencer 10. The pipe 100 includes several first perforations 109 and several second perforations 110. Within the housing 108, a first internal partition 111, together with the inlet collector 30 and the housing 108, defines a first chamber 124. A second internal partition 113, together with the outlet collector 128 and the housing 108, defines a second chamber 122. A middle chamber 120 is defined between the first and second internal partitions 111, 113 within the housing 108. The several first perforations 109 allow a connection between exhaust gas flowing through the line 100 and the first chamber 124, which is filled with sound-absorbing material 112, such as fiberglass roving.Similarly, the multiple secondary perforations 110 in the duct 100 ensure a flow connection between the exhaust gas in the duct 100 and the second chamber 122, which is filled with sound-absorbing material 114. The middle chamber 120 does not contain any sound-absorbing material. Openings 115 in the first inner separating device 111 allow a flow connection between the first chamber 124 and the middle chamber 120, while openings 116 in the second separating device 113 allow a flow connection of exhaust gases between the middle chamber 120 and the second chamber 122.

[0018] The snap-action valve assembly 101 is housed in the central chamber 120 and is thus positioned between the first and second separating devices 111 and 113. The snap-action valve assembly 101 comprises a valve flap 145, which is arranged in the exhaust gas passage of the line 100 for controlling the exhaust gas flow through the exhaust gas passage. The shaft 104 supports the valve flap 145 in the exhaust gas passage of the line 100. The valve flap 145 is rotatable in the exhaust gas passage of the line 100 about a pivot axis 130 between a closed position and an open position. The preload element 106 biases the valve flap 145 into the closed position. The valve flap 145 includes a vibration-damping cushion 126 around a section of its periphery that would normally be in contact with an inner surface of the line 100 when the valve flap 145 is in the closed position.

[0019] When the pressure of the exhaust gas flowing through line 100 reaches a threshold value, the preload force applied by the preload element 106 to the snap-action valve assembly 101 is overcome, and the valve flap 145 rotates about the pivot axis 130 into the open position. The rotational movement of the valve flap 145 is smoothed by a braking effect of the vibration damper 102.

[0020] The vibration damper 102 extends in a centerline plane 140. The centerline plane 140 is perpendicular to the pivot axis 130. An inward direction 150, parallel to the pivot axis 130 and transverse (i.e., perpendicular) to the centerline plane 140, extends from the centerline plane 140 to the line 100. An outward direction 160, parallel to the pivot axis 130 and perpendicular to the centerline plane 140, extends from the centerline plane 140 to the line 100. Accordingly, the inward direction 150 and the outward direction 160 point in opposite directions with respect to the centerline plane 140 (i.e., the inward direction 150 and the outward direction 160 are spaced 180 degrees apart).The vibration damper 102 comprises an inner side 170, which faces the line 100, and an outer side 180, which faces away from the line 100. The centerline plane 140 intersects the vibration damper 102 such that the inner side 170 of the vibration damper 102 is spaced from the centerline plane 140 in the inward direction 150, and the outer side 180 of the vibration damper 102 is spaced from the centerline plane 140 in the outward direction 160.

[0021] With reference to Fig. Figure 3-7 shows an exemplary vibration damper 202. The vibration damper 202 has a longitudinal segment 204 with a through-bore 206 configured to receive the second end 105 of the shaft 104 for rotary coupling of the vibration damper 202 to the second end 105 of the shaft 104. The longitudinal segment 204 extends linearly along the centerline axis 208 between a first and a second helical end 210, 212. The centerline axis 208 is located in a centerline plane 240 of the vibration damper 202. The longitudinal segment 204 comprises an inner side 270 configured to face the line 100 and an outer side 280 configured to face away from the line 100.

[0022] Both the first and the second helical ends 210, 212 comprise a series of superimposed layers 214a-d. In this embodiment, there are two layers 214a, 214b in the series of superimposed layers 214a-d that extend over (i.e., superimpose) the outer side 280 of the longitudinal segment 204 at the first and the second helical ends 210, 212, and two layers 214c, 214d in the series of superimposed layers 214a-d that extend over (i.e., superimpose) the inner side 270 of the longitudinal segment 204 at the first and the second helical ends 210, 212. Accordingly, the series of superimposed layers 214a-d comprises two material layers on each side of the midline plane 240 at both the first and the second coiled end 210, 212 (i.e.two layers 214a, 214b in the outward direction 260 with respect to the midline plane 240 and two layers 214c, 214d in the inward direction 250 with respect to the midline plane 240).

[0023] Each layer 214a-d in the series of overlapping layers 214a-d has a first side 216 and a second side 218. The series of overlapping layers 214a-d at both the first and the second helical ends 210, 212 has a folded, serpentine shape, with successive layers of material being folded back on themselves at bends 219 such that the first side 216 of layer 214a abuts the first side 216 of the adjacent layer 214b and the second side 218 of layer 214c abuts the second side 218 of the adjacent layer 214d.

[0024] The vibration damper 202 can be manufactured using many different production processes. For example, and without limitation, the vibration damper 202 can be manufactured from a stamped blank 220 (in Fig. 5 shown). The series of superimposed layers 214a-d at both the first and the second helical ends 210, 212 can be folded over end segments 222a, 222b along folding lines 224 to generate the bends 219 as shown in Figure 5. Fig. 7. The end segments 222a, 222b extend linearly along end segment axes 226a, 226b, which are arranged at an oblique angle 228 to the centerline axis 208. By way of example and without limitation, the oblique angle 228 can be in the range of 60 to 70 degrees. Accordingly, both the first and the second coiled end 210, 212 have a center of gravity 230, which lies in the centerline plane 240 of the vibration damper 202, but is offset 232 from the centerline axis 208.

[0025] Although the mass and inertia parameters of the vibration damper 202 are application-specific, the inventors have found that the following parameters of the vibration damper 202 are suitable for use with the snap-action valve arrangement 101. The longitudinal segment 204 and the first and second helical ends 210, 212 together generate a distributed mass around the through-bore 206 (i.e., around the pivot axis 130) of 150–180 grams (g) and a value of inertia exceeding 300,000 grams per square millimeter (g-mm). 2The vibration damper 202 can be made from a wide variety of materials. As a non-restrictive example, the vibration damper 202 can be made of metal, such as iron, steel, or stainless steel. The material undergoes plastic deformation at the bends 219 during the bending / folding manufacturing process, so that the series of superimposed layers 214a-d is durable and does not curl up / unfold. However, if curling / unfolding is a problem, spot welding can be applied through the series of superimposed layers 214a-d to hold them together more securely.

[0026] By generating additional mass with the first and second helical ends 210, 212, a stamped blank 220 with a lower overall thickness can be used to achieve inertia values ​​of more than 300,000 grams per square millimeter (g-mm). 2) can be used. This allows lighter and less expensive (i.e., lightweight) stamping equipment to be used for stamping the blank 220. This results in a cost saving of approximately 10-15 cents per part (i.e., per vibration damper 202) compared to other vibration damper designs. Optionally, stiffening ribs 234 in the form of longitudinally extending depressions can be added to the longitudinal segment 204 to increase the strength of the longitudinal segment 204 for any given thickness of the blank 220.

[0027] With reference to Fig. Figures 8-11 show another exemplary vibration damper 302. The vibration damper 302 has a longitudinal segment 304 with a through-bore 306 configured to receive the second end 105 of the shaft 104 for rotary coupling of the vibration damper 302 to the second end 105 of the shaft 104. The longitudinal segment 304 extends linearly along a centerline axis 308 between a first and a second helical end 310, 312. The centerline axis 308 is located in a centerline plane 340 of the vibration damper 302. The longitudinal segment 304 comprises an inner side 370 configured to face the line 100 and an outer side 380 configured to face away from the line 100.

[0028] Both the first and the second coiled ends 310, 312 comprise a series of three overlapping layers 314a-c. In this embodiment, there are two layers 314a-b in the series of overlapping layers 314a-c that extend over (i.e., overlap) the outer side 380 of the longitudinal segment 304 at the first and the second coiled ends 310, 312, and one layer 314c in the series of overlapping layers 314a-c that extends over (i.e., overlaps) the inner side 370 of the longitudinal segment 304 at the first and the second coiled ends 310, 312, in order to secure the series of overlapping layers 314a-c in position and prevent curling / unfolding.Accordingly, the series of superimposed layers 314a-c at both the first and the second coiled end 310, 312 comprises two layers 314a-b in the outward direction 360 with respect to the centerline plane 340 and one layer 314c in the inward direction 350 with respect to the centerline plane 340.

[0029] Each layer 314a-c in the series of overlapping layers 314a-c has a first side 316 and a second side 318. The series of overlapping layers 314a-c at both the first and the second helical ends 310, 312 has a folded-over, serpentine shape, with successive material layers at bends 319 being folded back on themselves such that the first side 316 of layer 314a abuts the first side 316 of the adjacent layer 314b.

[0030] The vibration damper 302 can be manufactured using many different production processes. For example, and without limitation, the vibration damper 302 can be manufactured from a stamped blank 320 (in Fig. 10). The series of superimposed layers 314a-d at both the first and the second helical ends 310, 312 can be folded over end segments 322a, 322b along folding lines 324 to generate the bends 319 as shown in Figure 10. Fig. The end segments 322a, 322b extend linearly along the centerline axis 308. Consequently, both the first and the second coiled ends 310, 312 have a center of gravity 330, which is offset 332 from the centerline plane 340 of the vibration damper 302 in the outward direction 360. Alternatively, the vibration damper 302 could be attached to the shaft 104 in the opposite orientation, so that the center of gravity 330 of both the first and the second coiled ends 310, 312 is offset 350 from the centerline plane 340 of the vibration damper 302 in the inward direction. Stiffening ribs 334 can be added to the longitudinal segment 304 in the form of longitudinally extending depressions to increase the strength of the longitudinal segment 304 for any given thickness of the blank 320.

[0031] With reference to Fig. Figures 12-15 show another exemplary vibration damper 302'. The vibration damper 302', which is shown in Fig. The one shown on pages 12-15 resembles the vibration damper 302, which is shown in Fig. 8-11 is shown, except that the vibration damper 302' has a longitudinal segment 304' of a different shape and a first and a second helical end 310', 312', each comprising a series of five superimposed layers 314a-e. In this embodiment, there are four layers 314a-d in the series of superimposed layers 314a-e, which extend over (i.e. superimpose) the outer side 380 of the longitudinal segment 304' at the first and second helical ends 310', 312', and one layer 314e in the series of superimposed layers 314a-e, which extends over (i.e. superimposes) the inner side 370 of the longitudinal segment 304' at the first and second helical ends 310', 312', in order to secure the series of superimposed layers 314a-e in position and prevent rolling up / unfolding.Accordingly, the series of superimposed layers 314a-e at both the first and the second coiled end 310', 312' comprises four layers 314a-d in the outward direction 360 with respect to the centerline plane 340 and one layer 314e in the inward direction 350 with respect to the centerline plane 340.

[0032] Each layer 314a-e in the series of overlapping layers 314a-e has a first side 316 and a second side 318. The series of overlapping layers 314a-e at both the first and the second helical ends 310', 312' has a folded, serpentine shape, with successive layers of material being folded back on themselves at bends 319 such that the first side 316 of layer 314a abuts the first side 316 of the adjacent layer 314b, the second side 318 of layer 314b abuts the second side 318 of the adjacent layer 314c, and the first side 316 of layer 314c abuts the first side 316 of layer 314d.

[0033] The vibration damper 302' can be formed from a stamped blank 320' (in Fig. 14). The series of superimposed layers 314a-d at both the first and the second helical ends 310', 312' can be folded over end segments 322a', 322b' along folding lines 324 to generate the bends 319 as shown in Figure 14. Fig. 15. Accordingly, both the first and the second helical end 310', 312' have a center of gravity 330' which is offset 332' from the centerline plane 340 of the vibration damper 302' in the outward direction 360. It is understood that the offset 332' is for the vibration damper 302', which is in Fig. 12-15 is shown, smaller than the offset distance 332 for the vibration damper 302, which is in Fig. It is shown in 8-11.

[0034] With reference to Fig. Figures 16-19 show another exemplary vibration damper 402. The vibration damper 402 has a longitudinal segment 404 with a through-bore 406 configured to receive the second end 105 of the shaft 104 for rotary coupling of the vibration damper 402 to the second end 105 of the shaft 104. The longitudinal segment 404 extends linearly along a centerline axis 408 between a first and a second helical end 410, 412. The centerline axis 408 is located in a centerline plane 440 of the vibration damper 402. The longitudinal segment 404 comprises an inner side 470 configured to point towards the line 100 and an outer side 480 configured to point away from the line 100.

[0035] Both the first and second helical ends 410, 412 comprise a series of superimposed layers 414a-c. Each layer 414a-c in the series of superimposed layers 414a-c has a first side 416 and a second side 418. The series of superimposed layers 414a-c at both the first and second helical ends 410, 412 has a helical shape such that the first side 416 of layer 414a abuts the second side 418 of the adjacent layer 414b, and the first side 416 of layer 414b abuts the second side 418 of the adjacent layer 414c. The series of superposition layers 414a-c at both the first and the second helical end 410, 412 extend spirally around central axes 436 which are parallel to and spaced apart from the centerline plane 440.

[0036] The vibration damper 402 can be manufactured using many different production processes. For example, and without limitation, the vibration damper 402 can be manufactured from a stamped blank 420 (in Fig. 18). The series of superimposed layers 414a-c at both the first and the second helical ends 410, 412 can be formed by rolling end segments 422a, 422b around the ends 438 to produce the spiral structure as shown in Figure 18. Fig. 19. The end segments 422a, 422b extend linearly along the centerline axis 408. Consequently, both the first and the second coiled end 410, 412 have a center of gravity 430, which is offset 432 from the centerline plane 440 of the vibration damper 402 in the outward direction 460. Alternatively, the vibration damper 402 could be attached to the shaft 104 in the opposite orientation, so that the center of gravity 430 of both the first and the second coiled end 410, 412 is offset 450 from the centerline plane 440 of the vibration damper 402 in the inward direction.

[0037] With reference to Fig. Figures 20-23 show another exemplary vibration damper 502. The vibration damper 502 has a longitudinal segment 504 with a through-bore 506 configured to receive the second end 105 of the shaft 104 for rotary coupling of the vibration damper 502 to the second end 105 of the shaft 104. The longitudinal segment 504 is cylindrical and extends linearly along a centerline axis 508 between a first and a second helical end 510, 512. The centerline axis 508 is located in a centerline plane 540 of the vibration damper 502. The longitudinal segment 504 comprises an inner side 570 (i.e., inner half) configured to point toward the line 100 and an outer side 580 (i.e., outer half) configured to point away from the line 100.

[0038] Both the first and second helical ends 510, 512 comprise a series of superimposed layers 514a-c. Each layer 514a-c in the series of superimposed layers 514a-c has a first side 516 and a second side 518. The series of superimposed layers 514a-c at both the first and second helical ends 510, 512 has a helical shape such that the first side 516 of layer 514a abuts the second side 518 of the adjacent layer 514b, and the first side 516 of layer 514b abuts the second side 518 of the adjacent layer 514c. The series of superimposed layers 514a-c at both the first and the second helical end 510, 512 extend spirally around the centerline axis 508 of the longitudinal segment 504.

[0039] The vibration damper 502 can be manufactured using many different production processes. By way of example, and without limitation, the vibration damper 502 can be formed from a flat blank 520 comprising a longitudinal segment 504 and two end segments 522a, 522b (in Fig. 22). The blank 520 begins with a U-shape, in which the end segments 522a, 522b extend perpendicularly from the longitudinal segment 504. The longitudinal segment 504 is first rolled into a cylindrical shape so that it has a hollow circular cross-section. Then, the series of superimposed layers 514a-c at both the first and the second helical ends 510, 512 is formed by rolling the end segments 522a, 522b around the ends of the longitudinal segment 504 to create the spiral structure as shown in Figure 22. Fig. 23. In other words, the end segments 522a, 522b are formed around the ends of the longitudinal segment 504. Both the first and the second coiled end 510, 512 have a center of gravity 530, which is positioned along the centerline axis 508. It is understood that other configurations are also possible, in which the longitudinal segment 504 is bent into a hollow oval cross-section or, alternatively, is left as a flat segment with a solid rectangular cross-section.

[0040] With reference to Fig. Figures 24-27 show another exemplary vibration damper 602. The vibration damper 602 has a longitudinal segment 604 with a through-bore 606 configured to receive the second end 105 of the shaft 104 for rotary coupling of the vibration damper 602 to the second end 105 of the shaft 104. The longitudinal segment 604 has a cylindrical rod shape and extends linearly along a centerline axis 608 between a first and a second helical end 610, 612. The centerline axis 608 is located in a centerline plane 640 of the vibration damper 602. The longitudinal segment 604 comprises an inner side 670 (i.e., inner half) configured to point toward the line 100 and an outer side 680 (i.e., outer half) configured to point away from the line 100.Optionally, a central section of the longitudinal segment 604 can be punched to provide flat areas on the inner and outer sides 670, 680 next to the through-hole 606.

[0041] Both the first and second helical ends 610, 612 comprise a series of overlay layers 614a-b. Each layer 614a-b in the series of overlay layers 614a-b has a first side 616 and a second side 618. The series of overlay layers 614a-b at both the first and second helical ends 610, 612 is spirally shaped such that the first side 616 of layer 614a abuts the second side 618 of the adjacent layer 614b. The series of overlay layers 614a-b at both the first and second helical ends 610, 612 extends spirally around the centerline axis 608 of the longitudinal segment 604.

[0042] The vibration damper 602 can be manufactured using many different processes. For example, and without limitation, the vibration damper 602 can be made from a straight cylindrical rod 620 having a solid circular cross-section (in Fig. 26). The series of superimposed layers 614ab at both the first and the second helical end 610, 612 is formed by bending the end segments 622a, 622b of the rod 620 into the spiral structure as shown in Figure 26. Fig. 27 formed. Both the first and the second coiled end 610, 612 has a center of gravity 630, which is positioned along the centerline axis 608.

[0043] With reference to Fig. Figures 28-30 show another exemplary vibration damper 702. The vibration damper 702 has a longitudinal segment 704 with a through-bore 706 configured to receive the second end 105 of the shaft 104 for rotary coupling of the vibration damper 702 to the second end 105 of the shaft 104. The longitudinal segment 704 is flat, has a solid rectangular cross-section, and extends linearly along a centerline axis 708 between a first and a second helical end 710, 712. The centerline axis 708 is located in a centerline plane 740 of the vibration damper 702. The longitudinal segment 704 comprises an inner side 770 configured to face the line 100 and an outer side 780 configured to face away from the line 100.

[0044] The first coiled end 710 comprises two oppositely wound spiral structures 713a, 713b, and the second coiled end 712 comprises two further oppositely wound spiral structures 713c, 713d. The spiral structures 713a and 713c are positioned lying in the midline plane 740, and the spiral structures 713b and 713d are positioned lying outside the midline plane 740. Each of the spiral structures 713a-d comprises a series of superimposed layers 714a-b. Each layer 714a-b in the series of superimposed layers 714a-b has a first side 716 and a second side 718, with the first side 716 of layer 714a abutting the second side 718 of the adjacent layer 714b.

[0045] The vibration damper 702 can be manufactured using many different processes. By way of example, and without limitation, the vibration damper 702 can be formed from a flat blank 720 comprising a longitudinal segment 704 and four end segments 722a-d (in Fig. (29 shown). The blank 720 begins with an H-shape, in which the end segments 722a-d extend perpendicularly from the longitudinal segment 704. The spiral structures 713a and 713c are formed by rolling the end segments 722a and 722c over the inner side 770 of the longitudinal segment 704. The spiral structures 713b and 713d are rolled / wound in the opposite direction. The spiral structures 713b and 713d are formed by rolling the end segments 722b and 722d over the outer side 780 of the longitudinal segment 704. Due to the weight balancing of the spiral structures 713a and 713b at the first coiled end 710 and due to the weight balancing of the spiral structures 713a and 713b at the second coiled end 712, both the first and the second coiled end 710, 712 have a center of gravity 730 which is positioned along the centerline axis 708.

[0046] The vibration dampers 102, 202, 302, 302', 402, 502, 602, 702, which are referred to above Fig.The vibration dampers described in Figures 1-30 provide a simple vibration damper that is rotaryally coupled to the shaft 104 for the purpose of damping vibrations present in the snap-action valve assembly 101. The vibration dampers 102, 202, 302, 302', 402, 502, 602, and 702 can be rotaryally coupled to the shaft 104 in various ways. As a non-limiting example, the vibration dampers 102, 202, 302, 302', 402, 502, 602, and 702 can be welded to the second end 105 of the shaft 104, screwed onto the second end 105 of the shaft 104, or coupled to the second end 105 of the shaft 104 using a fastener (not shown) or an adhesive. The various disclosed embodiments of the vibration dampers 102, 202, 302, 302', 402, 502, 602, 702 add braking mass to the valve flap 145 to reduce the amplitude of the resonance vibration of the valve flap 145 and the preload member 106.

[0047] The foregoing description of embodiments is provided for illustrative and descriptive purposes. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present disclosure. Individual elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not restricted to that particular embodiment, but, where applicable, are interchangeable and may be used in a selected embodiment, even if not specifically shown or described. This embodiment may also be modified in various ways. Such variations shall not be considered a departure from the present disclosure, and all such modifications shall be included within the scope of protection of the present disclosure. Reference sign 10 silencers 28 outlet collectors 30 admission collectors 100 lines 101 Snap valve arrangement 102 vibration dampers 103 first end wave 104 wave 105 second end wave 106 Preload member 107 fixing posts 108 cases 109 first perforations 110 second perforations 111 first internal separating device 112 sound-absorbing material first chamber 113 second inner separating device 114 sound-absorbing material second chamber 115 openings first inner separating device 116 openings second inner separating device 120 middle chamber 122 second chamber 124 first chamber 126 vibration-damping cushion 130 swivel axis 140 Centerline plane 145 Valve flap 150 inwards direction 160 outwards direction 170 inside side 202 vibration dampers 204 Longitudinal segment 206 Through hole 208 Centerline axis 210 first coiled end 212 second twisted end 214a Overlay layer 214b Overlay layer 214c Overlay layer 214d Overlay layer 216 First page of a layer 218 Second side of a layer 219 bends 220 raw part 180° outside side 222a End segment 222b End segment 224 folding lines 226a End segment axis 226b End segment axis 228 angles 230 Focus 232 Offset distance 234 stiffening ribs 240 Centerline plane 250 inwards direction 260 outwards direction 270 inside side 280 outer side 302 Vibration dampers 304 Longitudinal segment 306 Through hole 308 Centerline axis 310 first coiled end 312 second coiled end 314a Overlay layer 314b Overlay layer 314c Overlay layer 314d overlay layer 314e Overlay layer 316 First page of a layer 318 Second side of a layer 302' Vibration damper 304' longitudinal segment 310' first coiled end 319 bends 320 raw part 322a End segment 322b End segment 324 folding lines 330 Focus 332 Offset distance 334 stiffening ribs 340 Centerline plane 350 inwards direction 360° outward direction 370 inside side 380 outer side 312' second coiled end 320' raw part 322a' End segment 322b' End segment 330' center of gravity 402 Vibration dampers 404 Longitudinal segment 406 Through hole 408 Centerline axis 410 first coiled end 412 second coiled end 414a Overlay layer 414b Overlay layer 414c Overlay layer 416 First page of a layer 418 Second side of a layer 502 Vibration dampers 504 Longitudinal segment 332' offset distance 420 Raw part 422a End segment 422b End segment 430 Focus 432 Offset distance 436 center axles 438 ends 440 Centerline plane 450 inwards direction 460 outwards direction 470 inside side 480 outer side 506 Through hole 508 Centerline axis 510 first coiled end 512 second coiled end 514a Overlay layer 514b Overlay layer 514c Overlay layer 516 First page of a layer 518 Second side of a layer 602 Vibration dampers 604 Longitudinal segment 606 Through hole 608 Centerline axis 610 first coiled end 612 second coiled end 614a Overlay layer 614b Overlay layer 520 raw part 522a End segment 522b End segment 530 Focus 540 Centerline plane 570 inside side 580 outer side 616 First page of a layer 618 Second side of a layer 620 Cylindrical rod 622a End segment 622b End segment 630 focus 640 Centerline plane 670 inside side 680 outer side 702 Vibration dampers 704 Longitudinal segment 706 Through hole 708 Centerline axis 710 first coiled end 712 second coiled end 713a Spiral structure 713b Spiral structure 713c spiral structure 713d spiral structure 714a Overlay layer 714b Overlay layer 716 First page of a shift 718 Second side of a layer 720 raw part 722a End segment 722b End segment 722c End segment 722d End Segment 730 focus 740 Centerline plane 770 inside side 780 outer side

Claims

[1] Snap valve assembly (101) for an exhaust system, comprising: a conduit (100) defining an exhaust passage therein; a valve flap (145) disposed in the exhaust passage for controlling the flow of exhaust gas through the exhaust passage; a shaft (104) supporting the valve flap (145) in the exhaust passage for rotation about a pivot axis (130); a vibration damper (102, 202, 302, 302', 402, 502, 602, 702) outside the line (100) which is rotationally coupled to the shaft (104) so that the vibration damper (102, 202, 302, 302', 402, 502, 602, 702) rotates with the shaft (104), wherein the vibration damper (102, 202, 302, 302', 402, 502, 602, 702) comprises a longitudinal segment (204, 304, 304', 404, 504, 604, 704) which is rotationally coupled to the shaft (104) and which extends between a first (210, 310, 310', 410, 510, 610, 710) and a second (212, 312, 312', 412, 512, 612, 712) coiled end; wherein the longitudinal segment (204, 304, 304', 404, 504, 604, 704) comprises an inner side (270, 370, 470, 570, 670, 770) facing the conduit (100) and an outer side (280, 380, 480, 580, 680, 780) facing away from the conduit (100); and the first (210, 310, 310', 410, 510, 610, 710) and the second (212, 312, 312', 412, 512, 612, 712) coiled end comprise a series of overlay layers (214a-d, 314a-e, 414a-c, 514a-c, 614a-b, 714a-b), wherein at least one layer of the series of overlay layers (214a-d, 314a-e, 414a-c, 514a-c, 614a-b, 714a-b) extends over a portion of the inner side (270, 370, 470, 570, 670, 770) of the longitudinal segment (204, 304, 304', 404, 504, 604, 704) extends at the first (210, 310, 310', 410, 510, 610, 710) and the second (212, 312, 312', 412, 512, 612, 712) coiled end and at least one layer of the series of overlay layers (214a-d, 314a-e, 414a-c, 514a-c, 614a-b, 714a-b) extends over a portion of the outer side (280, 380, 480, 580, 680, 780) of the longitudinal segment (204, 304, 304', 404, 504, 604, 704) at the first (210, 310, 310', 410, 510, 610, 710) and the second (212, 312, 312', 412, 512, 612, 712) coiled end. [2] Snap valve assembly according to claim 1, wherein each layer of the series of overlay layers (214a-d, 314a-314e, 414a-c, 514a-c, 614a-b, 714a-b) has a first side (216, 316, 416, 516, 616, 716) and a second side (218, 318, 418, 518, 618, 718), and wherein the series of overlay layers (214a-d, 314a-314e, 414a-c, 514a-c, 614a-b, 714a-b) has a folded serpentine shape such that the first side (216, 316, 416, 516, 616, 716) of a layer abuts the first side (216, 316, 416, 516, 616, 716) of an adjacent layer. [3] Snap valve assembly according to claim 2, wherein the longitudinal segment (204, 304, 304', 404, 504, 604, 704) of the vibration damper (102, 202, 302, 302', 402, 502, 602, 702) extends in a centerline plane (140, 240, 340, 440, 540, 640, 740) which is transverse to the pivot axis (130), and wherein the series of overlay layers (214a-d, 314a-314e, 414a-c, 514a-c, 614a-b, 714a-b) on both the first (210, 310, 310', 410, 510, 610, 710) and the second (212, 312, 312', 412, 512, 612, 712) coiled end comprises two layers on each side of the centerline plane (140, 240, 340, 440, 540, 640, 740). [4] Snap valve assembly according to claim 2, wherein the longitudinal segment (204, 304, 304', 404, 504, 604, 704) of the vibration damper (102, 202, 302, 302', 402, 502, 602, 702) extends in a centerline plane (140, 240, 340, 440, 540, 640, 740) which is transverse to the pivot axis (130), and wherein the series of overlay layers (214a-d, 314a-314e, 414a-c, 514a-c, 614a-b, 714a-b) on both the first (210, 310, 310', 410, 510, 610, 710) and the second (212, 312, 312', 412, 512, 612, 712) coiled end comprises four layers on one side of the centerline plane (140, 240, 340, 440, 540, 640, 740) and one layer on an opposite side of the centerline plane (140, 240, 340, 440, 540, 640, 740). [5] Snap valve assembly according to claim 2, wherein the longitudinal segment (204, 304, 304', 404, 504, 604, 704) of the vibration damper (102, 202, 302, 302', 402, 502, 602, 702) extends linearly along a centerline axis (208, 308, 408, 508, 608, 708) and wherein the series of overlay layers (214a-d, 314a-314e, 414a-c, 514a-c, 614a-b, 714a-b) on both the first (210, 310, 310', 410, 510, 610, 710) and the second (212, 312, 312', 412, 512, 612, 712) coiled end are folded over by an end segment (222a-b, 322a-b, 322a'-b', 422a-b, 522a-b, 622a-b, 722a-d) extending linearly along the centerline axis (208, 308, 408, 508, 608, 708). [6] Snap valve assembly according to claim 2, wherein the longitudinal segment (204, 304, 304', 404, 504, 604, 704) of the vibration damper (102, 202, 302, 302', 402, 502, 602, 702) extends linearly along a centerline axis (208, 308, 408, 508, 608, 708) and wherein the series of overlay layers (214a-d, 314a-314e, 414a-c, 514a-c, 614a-b, 714a-b) on both the first (210, 310, 310', 410, 510, 610, 710) and the second (212, 312, 312', 412, 512, 612, 712) coiled end from an end segment (222a-b, 322a-b, 322a'-b', 422a-b, 522a-b, 622a-b, 722a-d) extending linearly along an end segment axis (226ab) arranged at an oblique angle (228) to the centerline axis (208, 308, 408, 508, 608, 708). [7] Snap valve assembly according to claim 1, wherein each layer of the series of overlay layers (214a-d, 314a-314e, 414a-c, 514a-c, 614a-b, 714a-b) has a first side (216, 316, 416, 516, 616, 716) and a second side (218, 318, 418, 518, 618, 718), and wherein the series of overlay layers (214a-d, 314a-314e, 414a-c, 514a-c, 614a-b, 714a-b) has a spiral shape such that the first side (216, 316, 416, 516, 616, 716) of a layer the second side (218, 318, 418, 518, 618, 718) of an adjacent layer. [8] Snap valve assembly according to claim 7, wherein the longitudinal segment (204, 304, 304', 404, 504, 604, 704) of the vibration damper (102, 202, 302, 302', 402, 502, 602, 702) extends linearly along a centerline axis (208, 308, 408, 508, 608, 708) and wherein the series of overlay layers (214a-d, 314a-314e, 414a-c, 514a-c, 614a-b, 714a-b) on both the first (210, 310, 310', 410, 510, 610, 710) and the second (212, 312, 312', 412, 512, 612, 712) coiled end extends spirally around the center line axis (208, 308, 408, 508, 608, 708). [9] Snap valve assembly according to claim 1, wherein the longitudinal segment (204, 304, 304', 404, 504, 604, 704) of the vibration damper (102, 202, 302, 302', 402, 502, 602, 702) extends in a centerline plane (208, 308, 408, 508, 608, 708) which is transverse to the pivot axis (130), and wherein both the first (210, 310, 310', 410, 510, 610, 710) and the second (212, 312, 312', 412, 512, 612, 712) coiled ends have a center of gravity (230, 330, 330', 430, 530, 630, 730) positioned in the centerline plane (208, 308, 408, 508, 608, 708). [10] Snap valve assembly according to claim 1, wherein the longitudinal segment (204, 304, 304', 404, 504, 604, 704) of the vibration damper (102, 202, 302, 302', 402, 502, 602, 702) extends in a centerline plane (208, 308, 408, 508, 608, 708) which is transverse to the pivot axis (130), and wherein both the first (210, 310, 310', 410, 510, 610, 710) and the second (212, 312, 312', 412, 512, 612, 712) coiled ends have a center of gravity (230, 330, 330', 430, 530, 630, 730) spaced at an offset distance (232, 332, 332', 432) from the centerline plane (208, 308, 408, 508, 608, 708).

Images