Bellows system which is self-sealing by virtue of how same is installed
Patent Information
- Application Number
- PCT/EP2026/054596
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2025-02-20
- Filing Date
- 2026-02-19
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-27
Smart Images
Figure EP2026054596_27082026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] February 20, 2026
[0002] 82162-0726-PWO - Ke / Jhu
[0003] Applicant: Vibracoustic SE
[0004] Höhnerweg 2-4
[0005] 69469 Weinheim
[0006] Self-sealing bellows system through construction
[0007] The invention relates to a chassis assembly. The chassis assembly comprises a first assembly component, a second assembly component, a rolling diaphragm, and at least one first ring element. The second assembly component is movable relative to the first assembly component in a longitudinal direction. The rolling diaphragm surrounds a longitudinal axis that is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the assembly and fixed in position relative to the first assembly component. The first ring element is designed to fasten the rolling diaphragm to a first sealing seat formed by the first assembly component. The two assembly components and the rolling diaphragm form a fluid chamber of variable size, in which an internal pressure prevails during operation.
[0008] Such a chassis assembly is known. It is a component of a vehicle's chassis and serves to flexibly mount a wheel. In its operating state, the chassis assembly serves, in particular, to provide suspension, damping, and / or height adjustment for the vehicle.
[0009] A specific type of chassis assembly is known from DE 102007018388 A1. A clamping ring is used to mount the rolling diaphragm to the first component. The clamping ring statically clamps the rolling diaphragm to the first component. For this purpose, the clamping ring must be rigid and plastically deformable. The design of the chassis assembly with the clamping ring is disadvantageous for several reasons. Firstly, it results in static overdetermination of the rolling diaphragm-component fastening, which, depending on the material pairing and especially with temperature fluctuations, leads to a varying and therefore unreliable clamping force. Secondly, considerable shear forces occur with the known fastening, which impair the service life of the chassis assembly and lead to premature malfunctions.The non-destructive locking mechanism further complicates repairs, especially the replacement of individual parts of the chassis equipment and its disposal.
[0010] The aforementioned disadvantages result in the objective technical objective of the present invention to provide a generic chassis device with increased reliability and ease of handling, as well as a method for assembling a chassis device.
[0011] According to the invention, the first ring element comprises several longitudinally extended and movable filament sections in a circumferential direction, which are intersected on one side of the longitudinal axis of the device by a longitudinal plane in which the longitudinal axis of the device lies. The filament sections are not fixed to one another, at least in the longitudinal plane, but preferably at least partially abut one another. "In the longitudinal plane" means filament sections intersected by the longitudinal plane. Particularly preferably, the first ring element comprises at least three, and in particular at least seven, filament sections that are intersected by the longitudinal plane on one side of the longitudinal axis of the device. The filament sections are, in particular, coils of the ring element around the longitudinal axis of the device.
[0012] The inventive design of the first ring element results in a particularly elastic flexibility of the ring element combined with high tensile and / or compressive stiffness, especially in the circumferential direction. This allows the first ring element to provide sufficient support and sealing for attaching the bellows to the first component without causing static overdetermination and a corresponding risk of failure of the chassis assembly, or significantly varying the preload force generated by the first ring element for bellows attachment during operation. Due to its flexibility, the first ring element can accommodate minor geometric changes, thus improving the tightness of the attachment even with tolerance variations. This significantly increases the reliability of the chassis assembly.
[0013] The chassis assembly according to the invention is particularly designed for forming the chassis of a vehicle. Preferably, the chassis assembly is a pneumatic or hydraulic strut or a part thereof. Particularly preferably, the chassis assembly is an air spring or an air strut. The chassis assembly preferably includes a damper. This damper is particularly preferably at least partially surrounded by the fluid chamber and intersected by the longitudinal axis of the assembly. Alternatively or additionally, the chassis assembly preferably includes a mechanical spring, for example, a coil spring.
[0014] The assembly components preferably comprise a pot, a rolling piston, and / or a so-called "top mount." Preferably, the first assembly component is a rolling piston and the second assembly component is a pot, or vice versa. At least in the area of the bellows connection, the assembly components are preferably designed to be at least substantially rotationally symmetrical about the longitudinal axis of the assembly. The rolling bellows is preferably made of an elastomer and is particularly preferably easy to deform. In longitudinal section, the rolling bellows preferably has a predominantly or completely uniform thickness. The rolling bellows is particularly free of thickenings in the area of the sealing seats. In the operating state, the rolling bellows preferably forms at least one rolling fold, which shifts in the longitudinal direction of the assembly with a movement of the assembly components relative to each other.
[0015] The first ring element is preferably at least substantially ring-shaped, and particularly preferably at least substantially axially symmetrical to the longitudinal axis of the device. The first ring element is formed in one or more parts. The sections intersected on one side of the longitudinal axis of the device by the longitudinal plane preferably form an overall cross-sectional surface that is at least substantially circular. The circumferential direction is to be understood as referring to the longitudinal axis of the device.
[0016] The first ring element attaches the rolling diaphragm to the first sealing seat in such a way that the first ring element presses and / or compresses the rolling diaphragm against the sealing seat. Due to the arrangement of the rolling diaphragm between the first ring element and the first sealing seat, the first ring element and the first sealing seat interact indirectly with each other. Preferably, the first ring element establishes at least a force-fit connection between the rolling diaphragm and the first sealing seat. In the chassis device according to the invention, attaching the rolling diaphragm to the first sealing seat preferably does not require any plastic deformation, in particular at least of the first ring element.
[0017] Preferably, the multiple filament sections of the first ring element are formed from a single filament, i.e., a continuous filament. Alternatively, the multiple filament sections of the first ring element are formed from different filaments of the first ring element. If the multiple filament sections are formed from only one filament, this filament is preferably wound around the longitudinal axis of the assembly and particularly preferably twisted. The term "filament" refers to a single element of the ring element extending longitudinally, primarily in the circumferential direction, which, due to its relatively small cross-sectional area, is primarily or almost exclusively capable of withstanding tensile stress in its longitudinal direction and may, for example, be flexible, but need not be.
[0018] The filament(s) of the first ring element is / are preferably formed from a wire or wire rope. The at least one filament is particularly preferably made of spring steel. This design of the first ring element allows for a particularly advantageous combination of flexibility with respect to geometric deformation and stability with respect to tensile and bending stiffness for attaching the rolling bellows.
[0019] Achieve the supporting effect of the first ring element.
[0020] Preferably, at least one section, in particular an end, of the filament, or at least one of the filaments, is fixed relative to at least one further section of the same and / or a further filament. The fixing particularly means at least a point attachment. This is to be understood as the end and the further section lying in the same longitudinal plane. The end and the further section are particularly preferably fixed to one another by frictional and / or form-fitting means. Fixing is particularly achieved by adhesive bonding, overmolding with a thermoplastic or an elastomer, welding, and / or a fixing element.
[0021] Preferably, all of the cut filament sections are fixed to one another in at least one longitudinal plane. Preferably, at least the ends of each filament are fixed to another filament section. Particularly preferably, the first ring element has a plurality of fixing points along its circumference, which serve to fix at least two filament sections to one another. The fixation of the filament sections, particularly at specific points, achieves a minimum dimensional stability of the first ring element, enabling reliable support and sealing while maintaining the flexibility necessary for assembly.
[0022] Preferably, the first ring element is designed such that it can be elastically transformed from a first state to a second state. Elastic transformation means that the first ring element is designed such that it returns from the second state, at least approximately, to the first state on its own when no external force is applied. In the first state, the ring element is preferably at least substantially circular. In the second state, the ring element is preferably substantially elliptical.The elliptical shape is particularly preferred in such a way that two opposite vertices of the ellipse are spaced apart in a first auxiliary direction, and the two other vertices of the ellipse are spaced apart in a second auxiliary direction oriented perpendicular to the first auxiliary direction, and the extent of the first ring element in the first auxiliary direction is at least 1.2 times, and in particular at least 1.5 times, as its extent in the second auxiliary direction. The aforementioned shapes preferably apply to a viewing direction that coincides with the longitudinal direction of the installation. Due to the described degree of elasticity of the first ring element with respect to its shape, it is particularly flexible in its application with regard to the shape of the installation partners and the environmental conditions.
[0023] The first sealing seat preferably has an axial sealing surface extending at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the device. This means, in particular, that the axial sealing surface does not extend parallel to the longitudinal axis of the device in the longitudinal plane. The first ring element is preferably mounted so that it is at least partially axially movable relative to the first device partner, such that the first ring element can be pressed against the axial sealing surface, at least partially, by the internal pressure in the longitudinal direction of the device. This means, in particular, that the first ring element is only guided into its final position relative to the first device partner by the internal pressure, in which the first ring element secures the rolling diaphragm. The rolling diaphragm is thereby pressed against the first device partner in a direction that is angled at less than 90° to the longitudinal axis of the device or parallel to it.With this design, the landing gear system functions in such a way that the load-bearing capacity of the fluid chamber seal in the mounting area increases with the internal pressure. This reliably prevents unnecessarily high material stress at low internal pressures as well as leaks at high internal pressures. In the long term, the reliability of the landing gear system is significantly improved.
[0024] The axial sealing surface is preferably designed such that an auxiliary line extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of the device is arranged in the longitudinal plane, on which a center point of the cross-sectional surfaces of the filament segments lies and which intersects the axial sealing surface. In other words, this means that the axial sealing surface extends so high or so far away from the longitudinal axis of the device that it passes a mean height or a mean radius of the first ring element. This ensures that the indirect contact between the first ring element and the first device partner is established particularly reliably and prevents unintentional detachment of the first ring element. The first sealing seat preferably has a radial sealing surface adjoining the axial sealing surface and extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of the device in the longitudinal plane.The first ring element is particularly preferably at least partially pressed against the radial sealing surface by the internal pressure. The aforementioned axial mobility of the first ring element relative to the first assembly partner means, in particular, that the first ring element is (indirectly) displaceable on the radial sealing surface. Particularly preferably, the first ring element is pressed into the first sealing seat by the internal pressure with respect to the longitudinal plane in such a way that it bears against both the radial sealing surface and the axial sealing surface of the first sealing seat (indirectly).
[0025] In a first preferred embodiment of the first sealing seat, the first ring element is arranged at least partially between the radial sealing surface and the longitudinal axis of the assembly. In a second preferred embodiment of the first sealing seat, the radial sealing surface is arranged between at least a portion of the first ring element and the longitudinal axis of the assembly. The first ring element can therefore bear against the radial sealing surface with its outer or inner surface. Particularly preferably, the first ring element is shaped and elastically deformable, especially relative to the radial sealing surface, such that it bears against the radial sealing surface in a circumferentially stretched or compressed manner, or is arranged against the radial sealing surface in such a way that it is elastically stretched or compressed radially during the assembly of the chassis assembly, such that it causes the rolling diaphragm to expand or contract due to the stretching or compression.Compression creates tension in the first ring element, pressing it against the radial sealing surface. The described deformation preferably occurs exclusively elastically, i.e., not plastically. During assembly, any plastic deformation of the first ring element is preferably avoided. This design allows the inherent flexibility or elasticity of the first ring element to be used particularly effectively to increase the reliability of the roller diaphragm's attachment to the first component. In particular, the use of the described fits of the first ring element at the first sealing seat completely replaces the plastic deformation of the ring element that is common in the prior art.
[0026] The chassis assembly is preferably free of fasteners that serve to create a positive fit between the rolling diaphragm and / or the first ring element on the one hand and the first installation partner on the other. This positive fit could, for example, be formed by circumferentially extending ribs or notches. This makes it particularly easy to achieve the axial movement of the first ring element and to create a self-sealing fluid chamber with a simple design. In particular, the axial movement is retained even after assembly or during disassembly. Preferably, the rolling diaphragm and / or the first ring element can be disassembled non-destructively by the first installation partner. This represents a particularly sustainable solution, as a defective rolling diaphragm can be easily replaced with a new one in case of damage.
[0027] Alternatively or additionally, the rolling diaphragm and the first ring element are preferably designed as separate components that can be separated or disassembled from each other without damage. The described non-destructive disassembly options are particularly advantageous for recycling the chassis components in accordance with the End-of-Life Vehicles Directive. In particular, unlike, for example, wire rings in conventionally designed tires or truck air springs, the first ring element is not vulcanized into the rolling diaphragm or the rolling diaphragm material, but rather the first ring element merely rests against a surface of the rolling diaphragm or the rolling diaphragm material.
[0028] Preferably, the rolling diaphragm forms a first wrap around the first ring element. The first wrap means, in particular, that the rolling diaphragm, especially when viewed at least in section along the longitudinal plane, is folded over such that its main direction of extension changes by at least 90°, and more specifically by at least 180°, in the fold-over area. Specifically, the rolling diaphragm extends in a first predominantly axial direction towards the wrapped first ring element and in an opposite second predominantly axial direction away from the wrapped first ring element. The section of the rolling diaphragm extending towards the first ring element and the section of the rolling diaphragm extending away from the first ring element preferably lie abutting each other, but are preferably not fixed to each other, for example, by vulcanization.Particularly preferably, the first ring element is completely enclosed by the first wrapping in such a way as a particularly closed cavity is formed by the rolling bellows in the area of the first wrapping, which extends in the circumferential direction and in which the first ring element is arranged.
[0029] The first wrapping is designed such that a first end section of the diaphragm material, which corresponds in particular to the section of the diaphragm extending towards the first ring element or extending from the path of the first ring element, projects from the first ring element by at least 1 cm, particularly preferably by at least 3 cm, especially in the longitudinal direction of the device. The first end section of the diaphragm material preferably forms a first diaphragm assembly section that covers the first device component on its outer circumference. A central section of the diaphragm material, which corresponds in particular to the other of the aforementioned sections of the diaphragm, preferably rests against the outside of the diaphragm assembly section.The specified minimum length of the first end section creates a contact surface between the two sections mentioned, ensuring sufficient adhesion between them to prevent the end section from being pulled out between the first ring element and the first fitting partner, thereby loosening the attachment of the bellows to the first fitting partner.
[0030] The rolling diaphragm is preferably folded over to such an extent to form the first wrap that the rolling diaphragm section is covered on its outer circumference to such a degree that a first folding fold of the rolling diaphragm rests against the first rolling diaphragm section when the components are in maximum axial proximity to each other. The folding fold typically moves axially when the components move axially relative to each other, with the axial distance traveled by the folding fold, for geometric reasons, being in particular half the axial distance traveled by the components relative to each other. Depending on the position of the chassis assembly, the folding fold is formed by different sections of the rolling diaphragm.The greatest possible axial proximity of the components is achieved particularly when the entire landing gear assembly is in its maximum compression, at which point the highest pressures in the fluid chamber are typically present. Preferably, the rolling diaphragm fold rests against the first rolling diaphragm section in every position relative to each other of the components. This ensures maximum adhesion due to static friction between the first end section and the central section in every position of the landing gear assembly, thus guaranteeing the highest possible reliability of the landing gear assembly. Furthermore, it prevents the central section from extending beyond one end of the first end section and rolling over a boundary area between the rolling diaphragm and the first component, which could lead to fatigue damage to the diaphragm due to potential stress concentration at the material interface.
[0031] In a first advantageous embodiment of the invention, the chassis assembly comprises a first ring element for attaching the rolling diaphragm to the first component and a clamping ring, known from the prior art, for attaching the rolling diaphragm to the second component. In particular, the first ring element serves to attach the rolling diaphragm to the pot and the clamping ring to attach the rolling diaphragm to the piston, or the first ring element to attach the rolling diaphragm to the piston and the clamping ring to attach the rolling diaphragm to the pot. The clamping ring clamps the rolling diaphragm against the second component in a plastically deformed manner.
[0032] In a second advantageous embodiment of the invention, the chassis assembly comprises at least one second ring element. The second ring element is designed to press the rolling diaphragm against a second sealing seat formed by the second component. The second sealing seat, in particular, has an axial sealing surface extending at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the assembly in the longitudinal plane. The second ring element is preferably mounted so that it is at least partially axially movable relative to the second component, such that the second ring element is pressed, or can be pressed, at least partially against the axial sealing surface of the second sealing seat by the internal pressure. In particular, the first ring element serves to fasten the rolling diaphragm to the housing and the second ring element to fasten the rolling diaphragm to the piston, or the first ring element to fasten the rolling diaphragm to the piston and the second ring element to fasten the rolling diaphragm to the housing.
[0033] All of the characteristics described above with regard to the first ring element are also to be understood as being described with regard to the second ring element. The same applies to the characteristics described above with regard to the first facility partner, which are also to be understood as being described with regard to the second facility partner. This does not mean that the two ring elements or the two facility partners must be identical, but rather that the characteristics optionally described above with regard to the first ring element and the first facility partner may apply wholly or partially to the second ring element or the second facility partner, regardless of whether the same characteristics apply to the first ring element or the first facility partner.Conversely, all features described below with regard to the second ring element are to be understood as referring to the first ring element, and all features described below with regard to the second component are to be understood as referring to the first component. The second ring element allows the bellows to be reliably and easily attached to both components, at least in terms of characteristic features.
[0034] Preferably, the second ring element is pressed against the axial sealing surface of the second sealing seat in the longitudinal direction of the device or against the longitudinal direction of the device during operation. Preferably, the second sealing seat has a radial sealing surface adjoining its axial sealing surface and extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of the device in longitudinal section. The second ring element presses against the radial sealing surface during operation. The second ring element is preferably arranged at least partially between the radial sealing surface of the second sealing seat and the longitudinal axis of the device, or the radial sealing surface of the second sealing seat is arranged between at least a portion of the second ring element and the longitudinal axis of the device.Preferably, both ring elements are arranged between the respective radial sealing surface and the longitudinal axis of the device, or one of the ring elements is arranged between the respective radial sealing surface and the longitudinal axis of the device, and the other ring element is arranged such that its respective radial sealing surface is located between this ring element and the longitudinal axis of the device. The following description with regard to the second sealing seat is also to be understood as describing the first sealing seat. The radial sealing surface of the second sealing seat is preferably formed by a cylindrical shell section of the second device component extending in the longitudinal direction of the device. The axial sealing surface of the second sealing seat is preferably formed by an end face section of the second device component, which extends in section along the longitudinal plane from the cylindrical shell section towards the longitudinal axis of the device.An end of the end section facing the longitudinal axis of the device is preferably U-shaped in cross-section along the longitudinal plane. This ensures both reliable positioning of the second ring element in the second sealing seat and prevents the rolling diaphragm, in particular a second end section of the rolling diaphragm material or the rolling diaphragm itself, from coming into contact with sharp edges of the second device partner, especially the end section, which would weaken the rolling diaphragm material.
[0035] The end face of the second component preferably forms an opening. The second ring element is designed to be elastically deformable, allowing it to reversibly deform from a first state, in which it has a round shape and an outer radius exceeding the inner radius of the end face, to a second state, in which it can be inserted through the opening into the second component. In the second state, the second ring element is preferably configured, for example, as an elliptical or figure-eight shape. This allows the flexibility of the second ring element to be easily utilized for constructing the second component as a bearing cup, with the second ring element at least indirectly bearing against its inner surface.
[0036] The problem is further solved by a method for assembling a chassis assembly. The chassis assembly to be assembled comprises at least one assembly partner, a rolling diaphragm, and at least one elastically deformable ring element. The rolling diaphragm surrounds a longitudinal axis of the assembly, which is fixedly aligned with the assembly partner. The ring element is designed to press the rolling diaphragm against a sealing seat formed by the assembly partner and, in a first state, has a round basic shape and an outer radius. The at least one assembly partner and the rolling diaphragm form a fluid chamber of variable size, in which an internal pressure prevails. The sealing seat has an axial sealing surface extending at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the assembly.In the operating state, the ring element is at least partially pressed by internal pressure in a longitudinal direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the device against the axial sealing surface, which is formed by an end section of the device partner that forms an opening with an inner diameter smaller than the outer diameter of the ring element. The chassis device to be mounted is, in particular, a chassis device according to the invention as described above, wherein the device partner of the chassis device to be mounted corresponds to the first and / or second device partner, and the ring element of the chassis device to be mounted corresponds, in particular, to the first and / or second ring element of the chassis device described above.
[0037] According to the invention, the method for assembling the chassis assembly comprises the following steps. The ring element is deformed from its first state to a second state by an external force. The ring element is then inserted through the opening into the component. Subsequently, the ring element is deformed back from its second state by residual stress(s) within the ring element. This deformation means, in particular, at least an approximation of the first state, but at least a deformation that approximates the shape of the original round form.
[0038] Preferably, during insertion, the ring element is held relative to the second fitting partner such that the plane of the ring, in which the first ring element extends at least partially, and in particular completely, in the first state, is angled at less than 90° to the longitudinal axis of the fitting. Subsequently, that is, after insertion, the ring element is tilted relative to the fitting partner to such an extent that the plane of the ring is angled at 90° to the longitudinal axis of the fitting. This allows insertion, particularly with the ring element in an elliptical shape, into the fitting partner without impairing the subsequent sealing effect. Before deformation, the ring element is preferably wrapped by the rolling diaphragm such that an end section of the rolling diaphragm material, particularly relative to the central section, is folded outwards. The end section rests, in particular, against the end section.Particularly when the component encompassing the end section is made of metal, the end section preferably rests against the U-shaped end of the end section. The ring element is preferably arranged in a cavity formed by the encircling element.
[0039] Further details and advantages of the invention can be seen in the schematically illustrated figures described below; they show:
[0040] Fig. 1 shows a chassis device according to the prior art in a longitudinal section,
[0041] Fig. 2 shows a first embodiment of the chassis device according to the invention in a longitudinal section, Fig. 2a shows a detailed view of the chassis device according to Fig. 2.
[0042] Fig. 2b shows a further detailed view of the chassis assembly according to Fig. 2,
[0043] Fig. 3 shows a second embodiment of the chassis device according to the invention in a longitudinal section,
[0044] Fig. 3a shows a detailed view of the chassis assembly according to Fig. 3,
[0045] Fig. 4 shows a third embodiment of the chassis device according to the invention in a longitudinal section,
[0046] Fig. 4a shows a detailed view of the chassis assembly according to Fig. 4,
[0047] Fig. 5 shows a fourth embodiment of the chassis device according to the invention in a longitudinal section.
[0048] The features of the embodiments according to the invention described below are also the subject of the invention individually or in combinations other than those shown. Identical or similarly functioning components of the embodiments are, where appropriate, provided with identical reference numerals.
[0049] A chassis assembly 2 with a first assembly partner 4, designed as a rolling piston, and a second assembly partner 6, designed as a cup, is known from the prior art (Fig. 1). A rolling diaphragm 8, which has a first rolling diaphragm fold 9 that rolls on the first assembly partner 4, is attached to both assembly partners 4 and 6 by means of a clamping ring 20, which plastically deforms the rolling diaphragm 8 and clamps it against the respective assembly partner 4 and 6, and surrounds a longitudinal axis LA. The assembly partners 4 and 6 are movable relative to each other in a longitudinal direction LR parallel to the longitudinal axis LA. The fluid chamber 10 extends around the longitudinal axis LA. Based on this, the invention relates to the attachment of the rolling diaphragm 8 to the assembly partners 4 and 6.
[0050] In the embodiments shown in Figures 2, 3, and 5, the chassis assembly 2 has a first ring element 16 for attaching the rolling bellows 8 to a first sealing seat 12 of the first assembly partner 4. In the embodiments shown in Figures 2, 3, and 5, the chassis assembly 2 has a first ring element 16 for attaching the rolling bellows 8 to a first sealing seat 12 of the first assembly partner 4.
[0051] In Figures 2, 3, and 4, the chassis assembly 2 has a different or second ring element 17 for attaching the rolling bellows 8 to a first sealing seat 12 (Fig. 4) or a second sealing seat 14 (Figs. 2 and 3) of the second assembly partner 6. The area of the first sealing seat 12 of the embodiment according to Fig. 2 is shown in detail in Fig. 2b. The area of the second sealing seat 14 of the embodiment according to Fig. 2 is shown in detail in Fig. 2a. The area of the second sealing seat 14 of the embodiment according to Fig. 3 is shown in detail in Fig. 3a. The area of the sealing seat 12 of the embodiment according to Fig. 4 is shown in detail in Fig. 4a.
[0052] The sealing seats 12 and 14 each have an axial sealing surface 12.1 and 14.1 respectively, angled relative to the longitudinal axis LA of the device in the longitudinal sections shown, and a radial sealing surface 12.2 and 14.2 respectively, extending parallel to the longitudinal axis LA in the longitudinal sections. At least partially due to internal pressure within the fluid chamber 10, the ring elements 16 and 17 press the rolling diaphragm 8 both axially against the respective axial sealing surface 12.1 and 14.1, and radially against the respective radial sealing surface 12.2 and 14.2.
[0053] The sealing seats 12 and 14 of the first embodiment according to Fig. 2 differ in that the radial sealing surface 12.2 of the first sealing seat 12, unlike the radial sealing surface 14.2 of the second sealing seat 14, extends between the ring element 16 and the longitudinal axis LA of the assembly. The first ring element 16 thus presses the rolling diaphragm 8 towards the longitudinal axis LA of the assembly against the first assembly partner 4. Conversely, the second ring element 17 presses the rolling diaphragm 8 away from the longitudinal axis LA of the assembly against the second assembly partner 6.
[0054] Both ring elements 16 and 17 are arranged within a wrap 22 and 23, respectively, of the bellows 8. To form the wraps 22 and 23, a respective end section 24 or 25 is folded over to create a cavity in which the respective ring element 16 or 17 is arranged. The bellows 8 rests against the respective device partners 4 and 6 only with its end sections 24 and 25.
[0055] The second sealing seat 14 of the embodiment according to Fig. 2 is formed by a cylindrical shell section 26 and an end section 28 of the second device component 6. The end section 28 forms the axial sealing surface 14.1. The cylindrical shell section 26 forms the radial sealing surface 14.2. The end of the end section 28 of the second device component 6, designed as a metallic cup in the embodiment according to Fig. 2, facing the longitudinal axis LA of the device, is U-shaped. The end section 25 forms a rolling diaphragm section that completely covers the inner circumference of the end section 28. The end section 28 forms an opening 18 with an inner diameter DI14.1, which is smaller than an outer diameter DA17 of the second ring element 17. An auxiliary line HG17 extending parallel to the longitudinal axis LA of the device, on which a center point of the cross-sectional surface of the second ring element 17 lies, intersects the axial sealing surface 14.1.The second ring element 17 extends essentially in a ring shape in a ring plane RE.
[0056] In contrast to the second ring element 17, the first ring element 16 presses the rolling diaphragm 8 towards the longitudinal axis LA of the assembly, i.e., radially inwards towards the first assembly partner 4. The reversed arrangement of the first ring element 16 compared to the second ring element 17 also means that the end section 24 of the rolling diaphragm material forms a rolling diaphragm assembly section that covers the outer circumference of the first assembly partner. The end section 24 extends at least 3 cm beyond the axial sealing surface 12.1 of the first sealing seat 12 in the longitudinal direction LR of the assembly over the first assembly partner 4. In the region of the first sealing seat 12, the dimensions are such that the inner diameter D116 of the first ring element 16 is smaller than the outer diameter DA12.1 of the axial sealing surface 12.1 of the first sealing seat 12 or of the entire first assembly partner 4.Similar to the auxiliary line HG17, the auxiliary line HG16, on which a center point of the intersection surface of the first ring element 16 lies, also intersects the axial sealing surface 12.1 of the first sealing seat 12.
[0057] The second embodiment of the chassis assembly 2 according to Fig. 3 differs from the embodiment of the chassis assembly 2 according to Fig. 2 in that both ring elements 16 and 17 bear against the outer circumference of the assembly partners 4 and 6, as is also the case with the first assembly partner 4 of the first embodiment according to Fig. 2 (see Fig. 2b). The number of filaments in the ring elements 16 and 17 is also reduced to 7 in each case. In contrast to the course of the rolling diaphragm 8 in the area of the second sealing seat 14 of the first embodiment (see Fig. 2a), the rolling diaphragm 8 also extends at the second sealing seat 14 of the second embodiment according to Fig. 3 from the second ring element 17 initially partially axially away from the first ring element 16 to a second rolling diaphragm fold 11 (see Fig. 3a).This is a static bellows fold that rests against the second component 6 and remains stationary relative to the second component 6 even when the components 4 and 6 move relative to each other. In contrast, the first bellows fold 9, which is characteristic of bellows, is a dynamic, i.e., axially movable, bellows fold. Here, the bellows fold 9 rests directly against the first component 4, since the first end section 24 is significantly shorter than in the first embodiment according to Fig. 2.
[0058] The third embodiment of the chassis assembly 2 according to Figs. 4 and 4a differs from the embodiment of the chassis assembly 2 according to Fig. 2 in that the rolling bellows 8 is attached to the first assembly partner 4 by a clamping ring 20 instead of a ring element. As is known from the prior art, the clamping ring 20 plastically deforms the rolling bellows 8 and clamps it against the first assembly partner 4, i.e., presses it radially inwards against the first assembly partner 4. In the third embodiment, the attachment of the rolling bellows 8 according to the invention is only provided on the assembly partner 6 designed as a cup. In contrast to the first embodiment of the chassis assembly 2 according to Fig.
[0059] In Figure 2, the second component 6 is a pot made of plastic, the end of which facing the first component 4 forms the sealing seat numbered 12 here, which functionally corresponds to the attachment of the rolling bellows 8 to the second component 6 of the second embodiment according to Figure 2. For the sake of consistency, the pot is referred to here as the second component 6, but it can also be referred to, conversely, as the first component.
[0060] The fourth embodiment of the chassis assembly 2 according to Fig. 5 differs from the first embodiment of the chassis assembly 2 according to Fig. 2 and the second embodiment of the chassis assembly 2 according to Fig. 3 in that the rolling diaphragm 8 is attached to the second assembly partner 6 by a clamping ring 20 instead of the second ring element. As is known from the prior art, this clamping ring plastically deforms the rolling diaphragm 8 and clamps it against the second assembly partner 6, i.e., presses it radially inwards against the second assembly partner 6. In the fourth embodiment, the attachment of the rolling diaphragm 8 according to the invention is only provided on the assembly partner 4 designed as a rolling piston, and corresponds to the attachment of the rolling diaphragm 8 of the first embodiment according to Fig. 2 and the attachment of the rolling diaphragm 8 of the second embodiment according to Fig. 3 to the assembly partner 4 designed as a rolling piston. [Reference numeral list]
[0061] 2 Chassis equipment
[0062] 4 first furnishing partner
[0063] 6 second furnishing partner
[0064] 8 Roll diaphragm
[0065] 9 first roll-up bolster fold
[0066] 10 Fluid space
[0067] 11 second roll-up bolster fold
[0068] 12 first sealing seat
[0069] 12.1 Axial sealing surface
[0070] 12.2 Radial sealing surface
[0071] 14 second sealing seat
[0072] 14.1 Axial sealing surface
[0073] 14.2 Radial sealing surface
[0074] 16 first ring element
[0075] 17 second ring element
[0076] 18 Opening
[0077] 20 clamping ring
[0078] 22 first wrap
[0079] 23 second wrap
[0080] 24 first final section
[0081] 25 second final section
[0082] 26 Cylinder shell section
[0083] 28 Frontal section
[0084] DA17 Outer diameter of the second ring element DA12.1 Outer diameter of the first sealing seat
[0085] D116 Inner diameter of the first ring element DI14.1 Inner diameter of the second sealing seat
[0086] HG16 Auxiliary line to the first ring element
[0087] HG17 Auxiliary line to the second ring element
[0088] LA Longitudinal axis of the facility
[0089] LR longitudinal direction of setup
[0090] RE ring plane
Claims
Patent claims 1. Chassis equipment (2) comprising • a first fitting partner (4) that forms a first sealing seat (12), • a second fitting partner (6) that is movable relative to the first fitting partner (4) in a longitudinal fitting direction (LR), • a rolling bellows (8) that surrounds a longitudinal axis (LA) of the furnishing, which is parallel to the longitudinal direction (LR) of the furnishing and fixed to the first furnishing partner (4), and • at least one first ring element (16) designed to attach the rolling diaphragm (8) to the first sealing seat (12), wherein the two device partners (4, 6) and the rolling bellows (8) form a variable-size fluid space (10) in which an internal pressure prevails during operation, characterized in that that the first ring element (16) has several filament sections extending longitudinally in a circumferential direction and movable relative to each other, which are intersected on one side of the longitudinal axis of the setup (LA) by a longitudinal plane in which the setup longitudinal axis (LA) lies.
2. Chassis device (2) according to claim 1 , characterized in that the first ring element (16) has at least three, preferably at least seven filament sections which are intersected by the longitudinal plane on one side of the device's longitudinal axis (LA).
3. Chassis device (2) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the multiple filament sections are formed from a filament of the first ring element (16) or from different filaments of the first ring element (16).
4. Chassis device (2) according to claim 3, characterized in that at least one filament of the first ring element (16) is formed from a wire or a wire rope, in particular from a spring steel.
5. Chassis device (2) according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that at least one end of the filament or at least one of the filaments is fixed relative to at least one further filament section of the filament and / or a further filament by means of bonding, by overmolding with a thermoplastic or with an elastomer, by welding and / or by means of fixing by means of a fixing element. 6.Chassis device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first ring element (16) is designed such that it can be elastically transformed from a first circular state into a second elliptical state in which two opposite vertices of the elliptical shape are spaced apart from each other in a first auxiliary direction and the two further vertices of the elliptical shape are spaced apart from each other in a second auxiliary direction oriented perpendicular to the first auxiliary direction and the extent of the first ring element (16) in the first auxiliary direction is at least 1.2 times, preferably at least 1.5 times, as large as its extent in the second auxiliary direction.
7. Chassis device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first sealing seat (12) has an axial sealing surface (12.1) extending at an angle to the longitudinal axis (LA) of the device and the first ring element (16) is mounted in such a way that it is at least partially axially movable relative to the first device partner (4) that the first ring element (16) can be pressed at least partially by the internal pressure in the longitudinal direction (LR) of the device against the axial sealing surface (12.1).
8. Chassis device (2) according to claim 7, characterized in that the axial sealing surface (12.1) is designed such that an auxiliary straight line (HG16) extending parallel to the longitudinal axis (LA) of the device is arranged in the longitudinal plane, on which a center point of the cross-sectional surfaces of the filament sections lies and which intersects the axial sealing surface (12.1).
9. Chassis device (2) according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that the first sealing seat (12) has a radial sealing surface (12.2) adjoining the axial sealing surface (12.1) and extending in the longitudinal plane parallel to the longitudinal axis (LA) of the device, against which the first ring element (16) can be pressed at least partially by the internal pressure.
10. Chassis assembly (2) according to claim 9, characterized in that the first ring element (16) is arranged at least partially between the radial sealing surface (12.2) and the longitudinal axis (LA) of the assembly, or the radial sealing surface (12.2) is arranged between at least a part of the first ring element (16) and the longitudinal axis (LA) of the assembly.
11. Chassis assembly (2) according to claim 10, characterized in that the first ring element (16) is shaped and elastically deformable such that, during assembly of the chassis assembly (2), it is arranged on the radial sealing surface (12.2) in such a way that it elastically stretches or compresses radially such that, due to the stress generated in the first ring element (16) by the stretching or compression, it presses the rolling diaphragm (8) against the radial sealing surface (12.2).
12. Chassis device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a freedom from fastening means which serve to form a positive fit between the rolling diaphragm (8) and / or the first ring element (16) and the first device partner (4), so that the rolling diaphragm (8) and / or the first ring element (16) can be removed from the first device partner (4) without damage.
13. Chassis device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the rolling bellows (8) and the first ring element (16) are designed as separate components that can be separated from each other without destruction.
14. Chassis device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the rolling bellows (8) forms a first wrap (22) around the first ring element (16).
15. Chassis device (2) according to claim 14, characterized in that the first wrapping (22) is designed such that a first end section (24) of the rolling bellows material protrudes at least 1 cm, preferably at least 3 cm from the first ring element (16).
16. Chassis device (2) according to claim 11, characterized in that the rolling diaphragm (8) is folded over to form the first wrap (22) to such an extent that the first end section (24) forms a first rolling diaphragm assembly section which covers the first device partner (4) on its outer circumference to such an extent that a first rolling diaphragm fold (9) of the rolling diaphragm (8) lies against the first rolling diaphragm assembly section at the greatest possible axial proximity of the device partners (4, 6) to each other.
17. Chassis device (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by at least a second ring element (17) which is designed to press the rolling bellows (8) against a second sealing seat (14) formed by the second device partner (6), which has an axial sealing surface (14.1) extending in the longitudinal plane at an angle to the longitudinal axis (LA) of the device, wherein the second ring element (17) is mounted in such a way that it is at least partially axially movable relative to the second device partner (6) that the second ring element (17) is pressed at least partially axially against the axial sealing surface (14.1) of the second sealing seat (14) by the internal pressure.
18. Chassis device (2) according to claim 17, characterized in that the second ring element (17) is pressed in the longitudinal direction (LR) of the device against the axial sealing surface (14.1) of the second sealing seat (14).
19. Chassis device (2) according to claim 17 or 18, characterized in that the second sealing seat (14) has a radial sealing surface (14.2) adjoining its axial sealing surface (14.1) and extending in longitudinal section parallel to the longitudinal axis (LA) of the device, against which the second ring element (17) presses, wherein the second ring element (17) is arranged at least partially between the radial sealing surface (14.2) of the second sealing seat (14) and the longitudinal axis (LA) of the device, or the radial sealing surface of the second sealing seat (14) is arranged between at least a part of the second ring element (17) and the longitudinal axis (LA) of the device.
20. Chassis device (2) according to claim 19, characterized in that the radial sealing surface (14.2) of the second sealing seat (14) is formed by a cylindrical shell section (26) of the second device partner (6) extending in the longitudinal direction (LR) of the device and the axial sealing surface (14.1) of the second sealing seat (14) is formed by an end section (28) of the second device partner (6) which extends in the longitudinal plane from the cylindrical shell section (26) to the longitudinal axis (LA) of the device.
21. Chassis device (2) according to claim 20, characterized in that an end of the front section (28) facing the longitudinal axis (LA) of the device is U-shaped in longitudinal section.
22. Chassis device (2) according to claim 20 or 21, characterized in that the end section (28) forms an opening (18) and the second ring element (17) is designed to be elastically deformable in such a way that it can be reversibly deformed from a first state in which it has a round basic shape and an outer radius (DA17) which exceeds an inner radius (D114.1) of the end section (28) to a second state in which it can be inserted through the opening (18) into the second device partner (6).
23. Method for assembling a chassis assembly (2) comprising at least one assembly partner (6), • a rolling bellows (8) surrounding a longitudinal axis (LA) of the furnishing which is fixedly aligned with the furnishing partner (6), and • at least one elastically deformable ring element (17) designed to press the rolling bellows (8) against a sealing seat (14) formed by the installation partner (6) and which in a first state has a round basic shape and an outer radius (DA17), wherein the at least one assembly partner (6) and the rolling bellows (8) form a variable-size fluid chamber (10) in which an internal pressure prevails, the sealing seat (14) has an axial sealing surface (14.1) extending at an angle to the longitudinal axis (LA) of the assembly, and the ring element (17) is at least partially pressed by the internal pressure in an assembly longitudinal direction (LR) parallel to the longitudinal axis (LA) of the assembly against the axial sealing surface (14.1), which is formed by an end section (28) of the assembly partner (6) forming an opening (18) with an inner diameter (D114.1) less than the outer diameter (DA17) of the ring element, in particular for mounting a chassis assembly (2) according to one of the preceding claims, comprehensive the following steps: • Deformation of the ring element (17) from the first state to a second state by external force, • Introduction of the ring element (17) through the opening (18) into the furnishing partner (6), • Re-deformation of the ring element (17) from the second state due to a residual stress of the ring element (17).
24. Method according to claim 23, characterized in that the ring element (17) is held during insertion relative to the setup partner (6) such that a ring plane (RE), in which the first ring element (16) extends at least partially, in particular completely, in the first state, is angled at less than 90° to the setup longitudinal axis (LA), and is subsequently tilted relative to the setup partner (6) to such an extent that the ring plane (RE) is angled at 90° to the setup longitudinal axis (LA).
25. Method according to claim 23 or 24, characterized in that, prior to deformation, a wrapping (23) of the ring element (17) is formed by the rolling bellows (8) such that an end section (25) of the rolling bellows material is folded outwards.