Elastomeric Mount Structure for Bi-Directional Axial Damping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motor mounts do not allow for variation in load transfer and damping characteristics in different loading directions, failing to provide distinct mechanical characteristics for axial and radial movement limitations.
Innovation Solution
An elastomeric mount design featuring an elastomeric body with annular voids and sleeves, along with ferrules that limit axial movement in specific directions, allowing for customizable damping and travel characteristics by varying the geometry of the voids and ferrule positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a solid uninterrupted block of elastomer is used, then the mount provides satisfactory vibration dampening, but it does not allow variation in load transfer and dampening characteristics in different loading directions
Solution Approach 1:
The elastomeric body is segmented into multiple regions by creating first and second annular voids that extend in opposite axial directions. These voids divide the elastomeric material into distinct zones that can independently deform and provide different damping characteristics for loads applied in different directions, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the elastomeric body are given different mechanical properties through the strategic placement of voids. The regions adjacent to the voids have different stiffness and damping characteristics compared to solid regions, allowing the mount to provide tailored damping and load transfer characteristics in specific directions while maintaining overall structural integrity.
2Reliability
If ferrules with stop faces spaced apart from the elastomeric body are used, then axial travel is limited in both directions, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The first and second ferrules serve multiple functions: they limit axial travel in opposite directions, provide mounting surfaces for the elastomeric body, and work in conjunction with the annular voids to control both axial and radial movement characteristics. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while achieving reliable bidirectional axial travel limitation.
3Reliability
If the outer sleeve is spaced apart from the inner sleeve, then radial movement is controlled, but the mount structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The inner sleeve is nested within the outer sleeve, with the elastomeric body positioned between them. This nested arrangement allows the elastomeric body to act as a cushioning element that controls radial movement while the spaced sleeves provide structural support. The nesting configuration achieves reliable radial movement control using a compact, integrated structure rather than separate complex mechanisms.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables tailored damping and load transfer characteristics in axial directions while providing controlled radial movement, enhancing vibration isolation and mechanical performance.
Implementation Method 1
The elastomer provides a dampening function to minimize transfer of vibrations from the engine or motor to the remainder of the vehicle
Implementation Method 2
An elastomeric body defining a first annular void encircling an inner sleeve and extending in a first direction
Implementation Method 3
A first ferrule is fixed to a first end of the inner sleeve, includes a stop face spaced apart from the elastomeric body, and is adapted to limit relative axial movement between the inner sleeve and the outer sleeve in a first direction
Implementation Method 4
The elastomeric body defines a first annular void encircling an inner sleeve and extending in a first direction. The elastomeric body defines a second annular void extending in a second opposite direction
Data Source
AI summary
An elastomeric mount comprises an elastomeric body defining a first annular void encircling an inner sleeve and extending in a first direction. The elastomeric body defines a second annular void extending in a second opposite direction. An outer sleeve surrounds and is spaced apart from the inner sleeve and directly engages the elastomeric body. A first ferrule is fixed to a first end of the inner sleeve, includes a stop face spaced apart from the elastomeric body, and is adapted to limit relative axial movement between the inner sleeve and the outer sleeve in a first direction. A second ferrule is attached to the inner sleeve, includes a stop face spaced apart from the elastomeric body, and it adapted to limit relative movement between the inner sleeve and the outer sleeve in a second opposite direction.