Bellows for the protection of a spring device

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a bellows for protecting a spring device.

[0002] A bellows for protecting a spring device is generally known from the prior art. The bellows can also be referred to as a sleeve. The bellows can be arranged around the spring device, in particular around a spring element of the spring device, such that the bellows encloses the spring element or spring device on the outer side, thus completely or partially shielding the bellows from the environment. This can provide a protective effect for the spring device, and in particular for the spring element of the spring device.

[0003] Spring devices are also generally known from the prior art. The spring device can have the aforementioned spring element. This can be, for example, an elastically deformable spring element. This spring element can be made at least partially from rubber or another elastically deformable material. In practice, it has been found that such elastically deformable spring elements can be particularly easily damaged by mechanical influences and / or heat or fire. The need has therefore been recognized to protect elastically deformable spring elements from external influences. This can be achieved with a bellows to protect the spring device, and in particular to protect the spring element of the spring device. This is because the bellows can be arranged relative to the spring element such that the bellows extends around the spring element on the casing side and thereby envelops the spring element on the casing side.The bellows therefore serves to protect the spring element and thus also to protect at least part of the spring device.

[0004] In practice, it has been found that a particularly severe stone impact or other mechanical influence from another, e.g. mechanical, part can act via the bellows on the elastically deformable spring element. In such an event, it cannot therefore be guaranteed with certainty that the protective bellows was also destroyed or that corresponding changes to the bellows are immediately noticeable. In an unfavorable case, the bellows cannot provide direct information as to whether the elastically deformable spring element of the spring device is damaged or has been damaged in the past. In addition, the elastically deformable spring element of the spring device is subject to natural wear, which can occur due to the spring movement of the elastically deformable spring element of the spring device.One way to initially check for wear on the elastically deformable spring element of the spring device could, in principle, be to visually inspect the spring element. In practice, the bellows is destroyed when it is separated from the spring device in order to gain unhindered access to the elastically deformable spring element and to be able to carry out quick and easy maintenance or inspection of the elastically deformable spring element. However, the effort required for this type of maintenance is very high. This is because a new bellows must then be pushed axially over the spring device and thus also over the spring element in order to regain the protective effect for the elastically deformable spring element of the spring device. This requires at least partial detachment of the spring device from other components, particularly if the spring device is installed in the chassis of a vehicle.In many cases, the vehicle must be raised for this purpose. This is time-consuming and associated with expense.

[0005] JP 2007 278398 A describes a vibration damping device for a rail vehicle, which is formed by bonding an annular elastic body between a shaft and an outer ring. The elastic body, with a laminated rubber structure, is formed by alternatingly attaching intermediate rings and rubber layers. A protective cover for covering the elastic body, which is not intended to be visible from the outside, is tightly attached to each of the shafts and the outer ring.

[0006] The present invention is therefore based on the object of providing a bellows for protecting a spring device, wherein the bellows should offer a particularly simple possibility to ensure a visual inspection of the spring device, in particular of the associated elastically deformable spring element.

[0007] According to a first aspect, the inventors achieve this object by means of a bellows having the feature of claim 1. Thus, a bellows is provided for protecting a spring device. The bellows is annular in shape such that the bellows extends from a first, frontal bellows end to a second, frontal bellows end. Furthermore, the bellows is deformable in order to be moved from an open position to a closed position. In the open position, the bellows is interrupted along a dividing line extending from the first bellows end to the second bellows end. In the closed position, the bellows is closed at the dividing line.

[0008] In the open position, the bellows is interrupted along the dividing line that extends from the first bellows end to the second bellows end. The first bellows end can also be referred to as the first, axial end of the bellows or be designed as such. The second bellows end can also be referred to as the second, axial end of the bellows or be designed as such. The first and second bellows ends preferably form opposite ends of the bellows in the axial direction. The surface at both end-face bellows ends can be annular, whereby this surface can be interrupted in the open position of the bellows and closed in the closed position of the bellows.

[0009] When the bellows is in the open position, the interruption at the dividing line allows the bellows to be pushed over the spring device or at least over a spring element of the spring device, so that the bellows grips the spring element or the entire spring device on the casing side. When the bellows is moved into the closed position so that the dividing line is closed, the bellows encloses, in particular, the spring element of the spring device or the entire spring device on the casing side. At least the part of the spring element that comprises rubber and / or plastic material is encased on the casing side. Thus, the term "enclose" in this context is to be understood as at least partially enclosing and preferably as completely enclosing. This ensures the desired protection of the spring device or at least the spring element of the spring device. This is because the spring element of the spring device is often designed as an elastically deformable spring element.The bellows can protect this spring element from dirt, light, snow, water, fire and / or heat, for example.

[0010] The spring device can be designed such that the associated, elastically deformable spring element extends in an axial direction of the spring device between two fastening elements of the spring device. After the bellows is moved into the closed position, the two bellows ends of the bellows can be arranged such that the opposite bellows ends of the bellows are fastened to the opposite fastening elements of the spring device. This has the advantage that the elastically deformable spring element arranged between the two fastening elements is protected on the casing side by the bellows.

[0011] The bellows is preferably formed entirely or at least partially from a rubber material. The rubber material can be designed and / or shaped to be elastically deformed in a vertical direction between the first bellows end and the second bellows end. An annular wall of the bellows can, for example, have a plurality of folds for this purpose. However, this is only one possible configuration. The annular wall can also be wave-shaped, so that wave crests and wave troughs are formed, each extending alternately in a circumferential direction of the bellows. The wave-shaped configuration or the folds of the bellows can ensure particularly good deformability of the bellows in the vertical direction.

[0012] Because the bellows can be pushed sideways over the spring element of the spring device in the open position, the bellows can also be retrofitted to a spring device already installed in a vehicle. This is because the bellows in the open position can be pushed sideways over the spring element of the spring device and then moved into the closed position. For maintenance purposes, the bellows can be moved from the closed position back into the open position in order to at least temporarily separate the bellows from the spring device. This allows for inspection and / or maintenance of the spring element of the spring device. If the bellows cannot be moved from the closed position to the open position without damaging it, it is possible to use a new bellows that is in the open position after maintenance and / or inspection of the spring element of the spring device.In this open position, the bellows is pushed over the spring element of the spring device in order to then be moved into the closed position. The bellows is preferably designed to remain independently in the closed position. The closed position of the bellows can therefore be a stable position of the bellows. Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the bellows is designed to be deformable in such a way that it can be moved from the open position to the closed position without being destroyed. It can also be provided that the bellows is deformable in such a way that it can be moved from the closed position to the open position without being destroyed. However, this is not absolutely necessary. The bellows can also be designed in such a way that the bellows cannot be moved from the closed position to a position other than the closed position, in particular the open position, without being destroyed.This offers the advantage that it is immediately detectable if the bellows has been moved from the closed position to the open position, especially due to improper mechanical action. In other words, tampering with the bellows while in the closed position can be detected particularly easily.

[0013] An advantageous embodiment of the bellows is characterized in that the dividing line of the bellows extends in a vertical direction of the bellows. The vertical direction of the bellows is preferably consistent with or parallel to a longitudinal axis of the bellows. The vertical direction can therefore extend, for example, along or parallel to an axis that runs flush and centrally through the bellows from a first end face of the bellows to the opposite, second end face of the bellows. The dividing line extending in the vertical direction offers the advantage that the bellows can be pushed particularly easily over a spring element of a spring device in the open position. This is because the interruption can be widened along the dividing line, so that the interior of the bellows is accessible from the outside. The dividing line extending in the vertical direction offers the advantage that the bellows does not have to be bent further at the dividing line than necessary.This makes it easier to mount the bellows on the spring device.

[0014] A further advantageous embodiment of the bellows is characterized in that the bellows' dividing line extends spirally from the first bellows end to the second bellows end. At the dividing line, the first closure end and the second closure end can overlap when the bellows is in the closed position. However, it is also possible for the first and second closure ends to be butt-jointed when the bellows is in the closed position.

[0015] A further advantageous embodiment of the bellows is characterized in that a first, radially inwardly projecting lip is formed on the first bellows end of the bellows. With this lip, the bellows can engage in a corresponding, annular groove of a first fastening element of the spring device after the bellows has been pushed over the spring element and / or the spring device in the open position, so that the bellows at least encompasses the spring element on the casing side. If the bellows is then moved into the closed position, the first lip can engage circumferentially in the corresponding groove of the first fastening element and thereby establish a positive connection to the spring device. The first lip can also be designed to establish a dust-tight connection and / or a dust-tight seal between the first bellows end and the first fastening element of the spring device.

[0016] A further advantageous embodiment of the bellows is characterized in that a second, radially inwardly projecting lip is formed on the second bellows end of the bellows. With this lip, the bellows can engage in a corresponding, annular groove of a second fastening element of the spring device after the bellows has been pushed over the spring element and / or the spring device in the open position, so that the bellows at least encompasses the spring element on the casing side. If the bellows is then moved into the closed position, the second lip can engage circumferentially in the corresponding groove of the second fastening element and thereby establish a positive connection to the spring device. The second lip can also be designed to establish a dust-tight connection and / or a dust-tight seal between the second bellows end and the second fastening element of the spring device.

[0017] Because the first lip can create a first dirt-tight seal to the first fastening element and the second lip can create a dirt-tight seal to the second fastening element of the spring device, the interior space formed between the bellows and the spring element can be kept free of dirt. The seals can also be designed to prevent light, snow, or water from entering the aforementioned interior space. In other words, the first and second lips can be designed such that the bellows, when closed, is attached to the spring device in such a way as to form an interior space between the bellows and the spring element that is protected from dirt, light, snow, or water. At the same time and / or alternatively, the two lips of the bellows can serve to prevent the bellows from slipping on the spring device.

[0018] According to the invention, the bellows has a first closure end and a second closure end, which, in the open position of the bellows, are arranged opposite one another along the dividing line and / or separated from one another along the dividing line in the open position of the bellows. In the open position of the bellows, the first and second closure ends of the bellows point in opposite directions towards the dividing line. Each of the two closure ends extends along the dividing line from the first, frontal bellows end through the annular wall of the bellows to the second, frontal bellows end. Thus, in the open position of the bellows, the two closure ends can form the circumferentially formed ends of the annular wall of the bellows, which are arranged opposite one another and / or separated from one another along the dividing line.To slide the bellows laterally over the spring element in the open position, the two closure ends can be grasped and the circumferential distance between the two closure ends can be increased by elastically deforming the rubber material of the bellows, so that the bellows can be pushed, with the two closure ends first, over the spring device or the associated spring element until the bellows at least encompasses the spring element of the spring device. The two closure ends can then be moved toward each other again until the dividing line is closed. The two closure ends can be designed to be connected to each other in a detachable or non-destructive manner.

[0019] A further advantageous embodiment of the bellows is characterized in that the bellows is deformable such that a distance in the circumferential direction of the bellows between the first closure end and the second closure end can be increased in the open position of the bellows, so that an interruption opening is created which extends from the first, frontal bellows end of the bellows to the second, frontal bellows end of the bellows. The interruption opening can therefore extend both between the two frontal bellows ends and between the two closure ends of the bellows. In the circumferential direction, the interruption opening can be so large that the bellows, in the open position, can be pushed at least over the spring element of the spring device until the bellows engages around the spring element on the casing side.

[0020] A further advantageous embodiment of the bellows is characterized in that the first and second closure ends overlap one another in the circumferential direction of the bellows in the closed position of the bellows. In particular, after the bellows has been pushed at least over the spring element in the open position so that the bellows engages around the spring element on the casing side, the bellows can be moved into the closed position. The first and second closure ends can be moved towards one another again in such a way that the first closure end overlaps the second closure end, or vice versa. This creates the desired overlap between the first and second closure ends. In the corresponding overlap area, a connection can be created between the first and second closure ends in order to achieve a secure connection between the two closure ends.This fixed connection between the two closure ends can be friction-locked, positive-locked, and / or fluid-locked. Thus, the bellows can be closed on the shell side in the closed position. This can provide particularly good protection, at least for the spring element of the spring device. This protection can particularly relate to protection against dirt, light, snow, and / or water.

[0021] A further advantageous embodiment of the bellows is characterized in that the first and second closure ends abut one another in the circumferential direction of the bellows when the bellows is in the closed position. If the bellows is therefore moved into the closed position as explained above, it can be provided that the first and second closure ends are not moved towards one another in such a way that the two closure ends overlap. Rather, as in the advantageous embodiment mentioned, it can be provided that the first closure end is moved towards the second closure end in such a way that the first closure end abuts the second closure end, in particular without overlapping the second closure end. In this way, a butt connection can be achieved between the first and second closure ends. The first and second closure ends can be designed to ensure a butt connection between the first and second closure ends.This connection can, for example, be a fluid connection. However, it is also possible for the butt-fitting connection between the first and second closure elements to be alternatively or additionally designed as a force-fitting or form-fitting connection.

[0022] According to the invention, a first closure means is formed on the first closure end and a second closure means is formed on the second closure end, wherein the first and second closure means are designed to be connected to one another in a force-fitting and / or form-fitting manner. For example, the first and second closure means can engage with one another in such a way as to establish a force-fitting and / or form-fitting connection. Such closure means are generally known from the prior art. Thus, when the bellows is moved from the open position to the closed position, the first and second closure ends can be moved towards one another in such a way that the first closure means engages with the second closure means, or vice versa, in order to effect the force-fitting and / or form-fitting connection between the two closure ends. This connection can be designed as a detachable connection.However, it is also possible for the connection to be designed as a connection that cannot be undone non-destructively. In other words, the connection and / or the connecting means must be at least partially destroyed in order to undo the connection between the two closure ends. On the other hand, a detachable design of the connection offers the advantage that the bellows can be moved non-destructively from the closed position to the open position for maintenance and / or testing in order to carry out the testing and / or maintenance. The bellows can then be moved non-destructively from the open position back to the closed position. The bellows can therefore be reused multiple times. If, on the other hand, the bellows is designed by means of the first and second closure means in such a way that the connection between the two closure means cannot be undone non-destructively in the closed position, the bellows is not reusable.However, the bellows are particularly easy to detect sabotage or signs of changes or initial maintenance measures.

[0023] A further advantageous embodiment of the bellows is characterized in that the first and second closure means are designed to form a closure seam in the closed position of the bellows, which extends continuously from the first, frontal bellows end of the bellows to the second, frontal bellows end of the bellows. By the closure seam being continuously closed in the closed position of the bellows, particularly complete and secure protection of the spring element can be ensured. The closure seam can be formed by the non-positive and / or positive connection between the first and second closure means. Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the closure seam is completely and continuously closed in the closed position. However, it is also preferably provided that the closure seam can be opened again when the bellows is moved from the closed position to the open position.For this purpose, an aid can be used to release the force-locking and / or form-locking connection between the first and second locking means. The first and second locking means can be designed accordingly for this purpose. The locking seam therefore offers the overall advantage that the bellows offers effective protection for the spring element in the closed position. However, the locking seam also offers the possibility of a non-destructive transition from the closing position to the opening position, so that the bellows can be reused multiple times or that the bellows offers the possibility of checking and / or servicing the spring element of the spring device without the subsequent need for a new bellows, which once moved to the closed position once again allows effective protection for the spring element.

[0024] According to the invention, the first and second closure means are designed to form a grid connection in the closed position. For example, the first and second closure means can be designed to form a latching connection in the closed position. For this purpose, the first closure means can be designed as latching lugs on the first closure end, which are designed to engage positively and / or non-positively in latching grooves as second closure means on the second closure end. By the latching lugs engaging in the latching grooves, the desired latching connection between the first and second closure means can be achieved. The latching connection can be designed to be released again without causing damage. For example, the latching lugs can be pulled out of the latching grooves again to release the latching connection.Instead of the snap-in connection, a hook-and-loop fastener connection can also be formed in the closed position by the first and second fastening means. The first fastening means can, for example, form closure hooks and the second fastening means form closure eyes, such that the closure hooks can engage with the closure eyes to form the hook-and-loop connection. The hook-and-loop connection can preferably be released again without damage. However, in an alternative embodiment, it is also possible for the first and second fastening means to form a zipper connection in the closed position of the bellows. For this purpose, the first and second fastening means can be designed like zipper hooks, which can engage with each other in a force-fitting and / or form-fitting manner, wherein a further aid can be used to ensure this engagement.In a further advantageous embodiment, the first and second closure means can form a plug-in connection in the closed position. The first and second closure means can be designed to engage one another in a form-fitting manner to form a connection that does not automatically detach. However, it can also be provided that this connection is self-locking but can generally be released again in order to ensure non-destructive maintenance and / or inspection of the bellows from the closed position to the open position. Other types of connection for the bellows in the closed position using the first and second closure means are also conceivable and / or possible.

[0025] According to the invention, the first closure means forms a double lip and the second closure means forms a single lip.

[0026] A further advantageous design of the bellows is characterized by the fact that one of the bellows' annular walls is made of a rubber material that naturally exhibits flame-retardant properties. This rubber material can be flame-retardant without the need for additional flame-retardant.

[0027] A further advantageous embodiment of the bellows is characterized in that an annular wall of the bellows is formed from a rubber material containing a flame retardant. Alternatively or additionally, the entire bellows can be formed from a rubber material containing a flame retardant. In both of the aforementioned embodiments, rubber material containing a flame retardant is used. In one advantageous embodiment, the respective rubber material is characterized in that the rubber material is a first rubber mixture containing at least one rubber component.Examples of rubber components include: ethylene-propylene rubber (EPM), ethylene-propylene-diene rubber (EPDM), nitrile rubber (NBR), (partially) hydrogenated nitrile rubber (HNBR), fluorocarbon rubber (FKM), chloroprene rubber (CR), natural rubber (NR), styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), isoprene rubber (IR), butyl rubber (IIR), bromobutyl rubber (BIIR), chlorobutyl rubber (CIIR), brominated copolymer of isobutylene and paramethylstyrene (BIMS), butadiene rubber (BR), chlorinated polyethylene (CM), and / or chlorosulfonated polyethylene (CSM). The aforementioned rubber types can be unblended. The use of a blend, particularly in combination with one of the aforementioned rubber types, for example a blend of a natural rubber (NR) and a polyisoprene rubber (IR) as a so-called NR / IR blend, NR / BR blend or a BR / SBR blend, is also possible.The rubber mixture of the rubber material preferably also contains at least one further compounding ingredient. Examples of compounding ingredients include: crosslinker, crosslinking system comprising a crosslinking agent and an accelerator, filler, processing aid, plasticizer, anti-aging agent, and / or color pigments. The rubber material preferably also contains at least one flame retardant. This is preferably a halogen-free flame retardant or one with the lowest possible halogen content to minimize the amount of toxic smoke gases in the event of a fire.The rubber material particularly preferably contains at least one of the following flame retardants: stannates, such as zinc stannate or zinc hydroxystannate; hydroxides, such as magnesium hydroxide or aluminum hydroxide; cyanurates, such as melamine cyanurate; borates, such as zinc borate; phosphorus-containing components, such as resorcinol diphosphate or aromatic polyphosphates; nitrogen-containing components, such as ammonium phosphate; intumescent mixtures; carbonates, such as calcium carbonate or magnesium carbonate; antimony trioxide; hollow microspheres, preferably in unexpanded form; and / or expandable graphite. The flame retardants can be used alone or in combination.

[0028] The flame retardant in the rubber material of the bellows' annular wall or the entire bellows can ensure particularly effective protection for the spring element of the spring device against fire. Therefore, if a fire, particularly one involving a bright flame, and / or a heat source such as a warmed-up brake, which can reach a temperature of 600°C, occurs near the spring device with the bellows attached to protect the spring element of the spring device, the bellows can protect the spring element from the fire. Furthermore, the flame retardant in the rubber material of the bellows' annular wall or the entire bellows offers the possibility of the rubber material of the spring element of the spring device being free of flame retardant.In practice, it has been found that the addition of flame retardants can adversely affect the physical properties of rubber materials with regard to spring rate. However, this must be avoided. By keeping the rubber material of the spring element free of flame retardants, a particularly good spring action, and in particular a desired spring rate, can be reliably ensured by the spring element. Protection against fire can be ensured by the bellows, which extends around the spring element on the casing side in the closed position. This achieves both advantages: good fire protection is guaranteed on the one hand, and a particularly good spring action on the other.

[0029] According to a second aspect of the invention, the object mentioned above is achieved by a spring device having the features of claim 13. The spring device comprises a first fastening element, an elastically deformable spring element, a second fastening element, and a bellows according to the first aspect of the invention and / or one of the associated advantageous embodiments. With regard to the bellows, reference is made analogously to the advantageous explanations, preferably in terms of features, effects, and / or advantages, as explained in connection with the first aspect of the invention and / or one of the associated advantageous embodiments.For the spring device, it is further provided that a first spring element end of the spring element is connected to the first fastening element and a second spring element end of the spring element is connected to the second fastening element, such that the spring element extends from the first fastening element to the second fastening element. The bellows is in the closed position for the spring device. Furthermore, it is provided for the spring device that the first bellows end is fastened to the first fastening element and the second bellows end is fastened to the second fastening element in such a way that the bellows circumferentially encloses the spring element. With regard to the advantages and / or technical effects that occur for the spring device, reference is made in an analogous manner to the technical effects and / or advantages that have already been explained in connection with the bellows according to the first aspect of the invention and / or the advantageous embodiments.In particular, the spring device offers the advantage that the spring element can be effectively protected by the bellows from dirt, light, snow, water, fire, and / or heat. Furthermore, the bellows allows for particularly quick and easy maintenance of the spring element. For this purpose, the bellows can be moved from the closed position to the open position. If the bellows can also be moved from the closed position to the open position without causing damage, this bellows can also be reused to move the bellows from the open position to the closed position after the inspection or maintenance has been completed.

[0030] Further features, advantages, and / or possible applications of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of the exemplary embodiments and the figures. All described and / or illustrated features, individually and / or in any combination, constitute the subject matter of the invention, regardless of their composition in the individual claims and / or their references. In the figures, the same reference numerals continue to represent the same or similar objects. Figure 1 shows an advantageous embodiment of the spring device in a schematic cross-sectional view. Figure 2 shows a further advantageous embodiment of a spring device in a schematic perspective view. Figure 3 shows part of an annular wall of the bellows in an open position in a schematic side view. Figure 4 shows the annular wall of Figure 3in a closed position of the bellows. Figure 5 shows a part of an annular wall of a further advantageous embodiment of the bellows in an open position in a schematic side view. Figure 6 shows the annular wall of Figure 5 in a closed position of the bellows. Figure 7 shows part of an advantageous embodiment of a vehicle in a schematic side view.

[0031] In the Figure 1 An advantageous embodiment of a spring device 4 is shown in a schematic cross-sectional view. The spring device 4 has a first fastening element 34 and a second fastening element 38. The first fastening element 34 is in the Figure 1 In the example shown, the first fastening element 34 is cylindrical, in particular in the manner of a sleeve. The first fastening element 34 can be one-piece. In addition, the first fastening element 34 can be made of metal. The second fastening element 38 is in the Figure 1The embodiment shown as an example is formed in several parts, namely in two parts. The second fastening element 38 has a base plate 48 and a core 44. The core 44 can be made of metal. The base plate 48 can also be made of metal. The base plate 48 is connected to the core 44 in a force-fitting and / or form-fitting manner. Together, the base plate 48 and the core 44 are intended to form the second fastening element 38. The spring device 4 also has an elastically deformable spring element 36. The spring element 36 can be formed by a spring rubber 50 with embedded metal plates 52. However, this is only one of many possible design variants for the spring element 36. In principle, it is also possible for the spring element 36 to be formed exclusively from rubber material. The rubber material of the spring element 36 or the spring rubber 50 often does not contain any flame retardant.This has proven advantageous in practice to ensure a desired spring action and / or spring rate. However, if a fire occurs or a fire occurs in the immediate vicinity of the spring element 36, this may result in smoke gases being released from the spring element 36, which should be avoided.

[0032] A bellows 2 is therefore also provided for the spring device 4. If the bellows 2 is explained below in connection with the spring device 4, the corresponding explanations shall apply analogously to the bellows 2 as such, even if it is used without the spring device 4.

[0033] The bellows 2 serves to protect the spring device 4. The bellows 2 is annular in shape such that the bellows 2 extends from a first, frontal bellows end 6 to a second, frontal bellows end 8. The first bellows end 6 can be opposite the second bellows end 8. In other words, it is preferably provided that the first bellows end 6 is formed at a first end of the bellows 2, viewed in the axial direction, whereas the second bellows end 8 is formed at the opposite end of the bellows 2 in the axial direction. In the axial direction, the bellows 2 therefore extends from the first bellows end 6 to the second bellows end 8. In other words, the bellows 2 can have an annular wall 32 that extends from the first bellows end 6 to the second bellows end 8.

[0034] The bellows 2 is designed to be deformable. Thus, the bellows 2 can be formed entirely or at least partially from rubber material. In particular, the annular wall 32 of the bellows 2 is made of rubber material. It is preferably provided that the bellows 2 is deformable in such a way that it can be moved from an open position 10 to a closed position 12.

[0035] In the Figure 2 A further advantageous embodiment of the spring device 4 with a bellows 2 is shown. This is a perspective view. The bellows 2 is interrupted along the dividing line 14, so that the bellows 2 has a first closure end 20 in the circumferential direction U and a second closure end 22 opposite in the circumferential direction U. In the Figure 2the bellows 2 is shown in the open position 10. In the open position 10, the bellows is interrupted along the dividing line 14, which extends from the first bellows end 6 to the second bellows end 8. As can also be seen from the Figure 2 As can be advantageously seen, the first closure end 20 and the second closure end 22 are arranged separated from one another and / or spaced apart from one another along the dividing line 14. If the bellows 2 is in the open position 10, the bellows 2 can be pushed laterally over the spring element 36 and preferably over partial sections of the first and second fastening elements 34, 38, so that the bellows 2 at least encompasses the spring element 36 on the casing side. This is exemplified in the Figure 2 shown.

[0036] As previously explained, the bellows 2 is designed to be deformable, particularly due to the rubber material, in order to be moved from the open position 10 into the closed position 12. In the closed position 12, the bellows 2 is closed at the dividing line 14. In this context, reference should be made to the Figures 3 and 4 be referred to as examples. In the Figure 3 the annular wall 32 in the area around the dividing line 14 is shown schematically in a side view.

[0037] It should be noted that only the end sections of the annular wall 32 are shown which are adjacent to the first closure end 20 and the second closure end 22, respectively. As can be seen from the Figure 3As can be seen schematically, the first closure end 20 and the second closure end 22 are arranged opposite one another in the circumferential direction U but at the same time are separated from one another, so that, for example, there is a distance A between the first closure end 20 and the second closure end 22. Due to the separate arrangement of the two closure ends 20, 22, an interruption opening 24 is created between the two closure ends 20, 22. Preferably, the dividing line 14 is arranged centrally along the interruption opening 24 in this case. The bellows 2 can therefore be designed such that a distance A in the circumferential direction U of the bellows 2 between the first closure end 20 and the second closure end 22 can be increased in the open position 10 of the bellows 2, so that the interruption opening 24 is created, which extends from the first, frontal bellows end 6 to the second, frontal bellows end 8. It can be provided that the bellows 2 orthe associated rubber material is deformable such that the distance A can be increased to a value that corresponds at least to the outer diameter of the spring element 36 or the outer diameter of one of the two fastening elements 34, 38 of the spring device 4. This ensures that the bellows 2, in the open position 10, can be pushed laterally over the spring device 4, in particular the associated spring element 36 or one of the two fastening devices 34, 38, until the bellows 2 at least encompasses the spring element 36 circumferentially.

[0038] In addition, the bellows 2 can be moved from the open position 10 to the closed position 12. In the Figure 4 is the section of the side view of the bellows 2 from Figure 3shown, wherein the bellows 2 has been moved into the closed position 12. For example, it can be provided that the first closure end 20 and the second closure end 22 overlap in the closed position 12 in the circumferential direction U of the bellows 2. This is purely exemplary in the Figure 4 shown. Thus, it can be provided that the first closure end 20 is displaced in the circumferential direction U and the second closure end 22 is displaced opposite to the circumferential direction U in order to move the bellows 2 from the open position 10 into the closed position 12. This deformation of the bellows 2 is continued until the overlap occurs at the two closure ends 20, 22. In the corresponding overlap area, a force-locking and / or form-locking connection can occur. In this context, reference is again made to the Figure 2 referred to.

[0039] In the mentioned Figure 2The first closure end 20 and the second closure end 22 are designed, for example, such that a first closure means 26 is formed on the first closure end 20 and a second closure means 28 is formed on the second closure end 22. The two closure means 26, 28 can be designed to form a positive and / or non-positive connection when the two closure ends 20, 22 overlap. For example, the first closure means 26 can be designed in the manner of a double lip that can engage over the second closure means 28 in a non-positive and positive manner, wherein the second closure means 28 is designed, for example, as a single lip. The first closure means 26 and the second closure means 28 are designed to correspond to one another in such a way as to form a snap-in connection.In a further, unclaimed alternative, they can be designed, for example, to form a plug-in connection or a snap-in connection. Other design options for the first and second closure means 26, 28 are also possible. Thus, the first and second closure means 26, 28 can, in particular, be designed to form a hook-and-loop fastener or a zipper connection in the closed position 12 of the bellows 2.

[0040] Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the first closure means 26 and the second closure means 28 are designed to form a detachable mechanical connection, in particular a detachable, non-positive and / or positive connection. This offers the advantage that the bellows 2 can not only be moved non-destructively from the open position 10 to the closed position 12, but that the bellows 2 can also be moved non-destructively from the closed position 12 to the open position 10. Thus, the bellows 2 can, for example, be moved non-destructively between the open position 10 and the closed position 12.

[0041] However, it is also possible that moving the bellows 2 from the closed position 12 to the open position 10 does not necessarily have to be non-destructive. This is particularly advantageous if the bellows 2 is not intended to be reused, in particular after an inspection and / or maintenance of the spring element 36. In this case, the bellows 2 can be designed such that the bellows 2 is manufactured in the open position 10 and can also be moved from the open position 10 to the closed position 12 without causing any damage. For the connection between the first closure end 20 and the second closure end 22, an adhesive can therefore also be used, which is applied to at least one of the two ends 20, 22 before the bellows 2 is moved from the open position 10 to the closed position 12. In the closed position 12, a fluid connection can then be created between the two closure ends 20, 22.This fluid connection can preferably exist in addition to the force-fitting and / or form-fitting connection by means of the closure means 26, 28.

[0042] If the Figure 2 shown bellows 2 is moved from the open position 10 also shown there into the closed position 12, a first lip 16 formed on the first bellows end 6 comes into circumferential and preferably continuous contact with an outer side of the first fastening element 34 of the spring device 4. It is preferably provided that the bellows 2 is designed such that a dust-tight and / or watertight connection is formed between the first lip 16 and the first fastening element 34 when the bellows 2 is moved into the closed position 12. In this context, reference is again made to the Figure 1, which shows, by way of example, that the first bellows end 6 with the associated first lip 16 rests directly against the first fastening element 34. This allows the circumferentially uninterrupted connection, which is preferably dust-tight and / or waterproof, to be created.

[0043] When moving the bellows 2 from the open position 10 into the closed position 12, it is also preferably provided that a second lip 18 formed on the second bellows end 8 comes into direct contact with the second fastening element 38, in particular the associated core 44, so that a preferably dust-tight and / or watertight connection is formed between the second bellows end 8 and the second fastening element 38. Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the first closure end 20 and the second closure end 22 overlap in the closed position 12 in such a way that a closure seam 30 is formed, as is shown by way of example in the Figure 3is shown, wherein the closure seam extends continuously and preferably dust-tight and / or watertight from the first bellows end 6 to the second bellows end 8.

[0044] After the bellows 2 has been pushed over at least the spring element 36 of the spring device 4 and then moved into the closed position 12, the bellows 2 can effectively protect the spring element 36 from external influences. For example, the bellows 2 can protect the spring element 36 from water, snow, ice, and preferably also from mechanical impacts.

[0045] In an advantageous embodiment, the annular wall 32 of the bellows 2 or the entire bellows 2 is formed from a rubber material containing a flame retardant. In this case, the bellows 2 can also serve to protect the spring element 36 of the spring device 4 from fire, in particular from fire and / or high heat. This can also ensure that no smoke gas is released from the spring element 36 if the fire occurs in the immediate vicinity of the spring device 4.

[0046] In the Figure 3A part of the annular wall 32 of the bellows 2 is schematically shown in the open position 10. An axial direction of the bellows 2, which preferably corresponds to a vertical direction V of the spring device 4, can be used to design the configuration of the dividing line 14 or the configuration of the first closure end 20 and the second closure end 22. Thus, it is preferably provided that the dividing line 14 extends along the axial direction of the bellows 2. The axial direction of the bellows 2 can also be referred to as the vertical direction of the bellows 2. The vertical direction V of the bellows 2 can correspond to the vertical direction V of the spring device 4.

[0047] In a further embodiment of the bellows 2, as exemplified in Figure 5As shown, however, it can be provided that the dividing line 14 does not extend in the vertical direction V or not parallel or coaxial to the vertical direction V of the bellows 2. Rather, it can be provided that the dividing line 14 extends in an oblique or serpentine direction between the first bellows end 6 and the second bellows end 8, so that an uninterrupted interruption opening 24 is formed between the first bellows end 6 and the second bellows end 8. The first closure end 20 and the second closure end 22 can have a shape that corresponds to the dividing line 14. Although the dividing line 14 and the first closure end 20 as well as the second closure end 22 can be serpentine, the bellows 2 can be moved from the open position 10 to the closed position 12, as is exemplified in the Figure 6is shown. Here, too, a corresponding overlap between the two closure ends 20, 22 can be achieved, which preferably leads to the closure seam 30.

[0048] In the Figure 7 A part of a vehicle 54 is shown as an example. In the Figure 7The illustrated example of the vehicle 54 is a so-called railcar. The vehicle 54 has a vehicle body 56 which is coupled to a chassis 58 via a secondary suspension 60, wherein the chassis 58 is coupled to several axles 64 via so-called primary suspensions 62. Wheels are rotatably mounted on each axle 64 to allow the vehicle 54 to move. Furthermore, each of the axles 64 is connected to the chassis 58 via one of the aforementioned primary suspensions 62. The primary suspension 62 can be formed by a spring device 4, as previously explained. This spring device 4 can have the bellows 2, as also previously explained. If a fire breaks out in the vicinity of the vehicle 54, the bellows 2 of the spring device 4 prevents smoke from the spring element 26 of the spring device 4 from being released into the environment.In addition, the bellows 2 serves to protect the spring element 36 from water, snow, dirt and / or stone chips.

[0049] Additionally, it should be noted that "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. Furthermore, it should be noted that features described with reference to one of the above embodiments can also be used in combination with other features of other embodiments described above. Reference signs in the claims are not to be considered as limitations. List of reference symbols

[0050] AAxtension RRadial direction UCircumferential direction VVertical direction 2Bellows 4Spring device 6First bellows end 8Second bellows end 10Opening position 12Closing position 14Parting line 16First lip 18Second lip 20First closure end 22Second closure end 24Break opening 26First closure means 28Second closure means 30Closing seam 32Ring wall 34First fastening element 36Spring element 38Second fastening element 40First spring element end 42Second spring element end 44Core 46Inside 48Base plate 50Spring rubber 52Metal plate 54Vehicle 56Vehicle body 58Chassis 60Secondary suspension 62Primary suspension 64Axle

Claims

1. Bellows (2) for protecting a spring device (4), wherein the bellows (2) is of ring-shaped design such that the bellows (2) extends from a first, face-side bellows end (6) to a second, face-side bellows end (8), wherein the bellows (2) is of deformable form in order to be brought from an open position (10) into a closed position (12), wherein the bellows (2) is, in the open position (10), interrupted along a parting line (14) which extends from the first bellows end (6) to the second bellows end (8), and wherein the bellows (2), in the closed position (12), is closed at the parting line (14), wherein the bellows (2) has a first closure end (20) and a second closure end (22), which are arranged opposite each other and / or separately from each other along the parting line (14) in the open position (10) of the bellows (2), wherein a first closure means (26) is formed at the first closure end (20) and a second closure means (28) is formed at the second closure end (22), wherein the first and the second closure means (26, 28) are designed in order to be connected to each other in a force-fitting and / or interlocking manner, wherein the first and the second closure means (26, 28) are designed to form a latching connection in the closed position (12), characterized in that the first closure means (26) forms a double lip and the second closure means (28) forms a single lip.

2. Bellows (2) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the parting line (14) extends in a vertical direction V of the bellows (2).

3. Bellows (2) according to either of the preceding claims, characterized in that a first, radially inwardly projecting lip (16) is formed at the first bellows end (6) of the bellows (2).

4. Bellows (2) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that a second, radially inwardly projecting lip (18) is formed at the second bellows end (8) of the bellows (2).

5. Bellows (2) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the bellows (2) is deformable such that a distance A in the circumferential direction U of the bellows (2) between the first closure end (20) and the second closure end (22) can be increased in the open position (10) of the bellows (2), so that an interruption opening (24) is created, which extends from the first, face-side bellows end (6) of the bellows (2) to the second, face-side bellows end (8) of the bellows (2).

6. Bellows (2) according to either of the preceding Claims 5 and 6, characterized in that the first and the second closure end (20, 22) overlap each other in the circumferential direction U of the bellows (2) in the closed position (12).

7. Bellows (2) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that that the first and the second closure means (26, 28) are designed in order to form a closed closure seam (30) in the closed position (12) of the bellows (2), which closure seam extends continuously from the first, face-side bellows end (6) of the bellows (2) to the second, face-side bellows end (8) of the bellows (2).

8. Bellows (2) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that an annular wall (32) of the bellows (2) and / or the entire bellows (2) is formed from a rubber material that contains a flame retardant.

9. Spring device (4), comprising: a first fastening element (34), an elastically deformable spring element (36), a second fastening element (38), and a bellows (2) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a first spring element end (40) of the spring element (36) is connected to the first fastening element (34) and a second spring element end (42) of the spring element (36) is connected the second fastening element (38), so that the spring element (36) extends from the first fastening element (34) to the second fastening element (38), wherein the bellows (2) is in the closed position (12), and wherein the first bellows end (6) is fastened to the first fastening element (34) and the second bellows end (8) is fastened to the second fastening element (38) such that the bellows (2) circumferentially encloses the spring element (36).