Leaf Spring Retaining Element Elastomer Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Leaf springs in vehicles are subjected to high stress when mounted in retaining elements, leading to potential deformation and reduced service life during compression or rebound.
Innovation Solution
A rotationally elastic mounting system using a permanently elastic elastomer molded part between the leaf spring end and the retainer, allowing for twisting or tilting under torque and returning to the initial position when torque is absent, thereby reducing stress on the leaf spring end.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the leaf spring end is rigidly mounted in the retainer, then the connection strength is improved, but the stress on the leaf spring end increases leading to reduced service life
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs an elastomer molded part as a flexible mounting element between the leaf spring end and the retainer. This elastomer component provides rotational elasticity, allowing the leaf spring end to twist or tilt under torque while maintaining a secure connection. The flexible nature of the elastomer reduces stress concentration on the leaf spring end, thereby extending service life while preserving connection strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the mechanical parameters of the mounting system by introducing an elastomer material with specific elastic properties. The elastomer molded part has controlled hardness and elasticity parameters that enable it to deform under load and return to its initial position, providing a compliant mounting solution that balances connection strength with stress reduction.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the leaf spring end is rigidly fixed in the retainer, then the mounting stability is improved, but the ability to accommodate deformation during compression or rebound is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static rigid mounting into a dynamic system by introducing an elastomer molded part that can deform and rotate. The elastomer provides rotational elasticity, enabling the leaf spring end to adapt its position during compression or rebound while maintaining stable mounting. This dynamic capability allows the system to accommodate deformation without compromising mounting stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastomer molded part acts as an intermediary element between the leaf spring end and the retainer. It mediates the interaction by providing a compliant interface that allows controlled movement and deformation accommodation while maintaining the overall mounting stability. The elastomer absorbs and distributes the deformation forces, protecting the rigid retainer structure.
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
This solution extends the service life of the connection between the leaf spring end and the retainer, and consequently the leaf spring itself, by mitigating stress and allowing for longer operational durability.
Implementation Method 1
The elastomer molded part permits rotationally elastic mounting of the leaf spring end in the retainer based on the elasticity of the elastomer molded part. In the presence of a torque acting on the leaf spring end the elastomer molded part is deformed by the leaf spring end, which results in the twisting or tilting of the leaf spring end in the retainer. In the absence of torque, the leaf spring end returns to the initial position owing to the elasticity of the elastomer molded part.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a leaf spring retaining element for rotationally and elastically mounting a leaf spring end of a leaf spring on a vehicle structure. The leaf spring retaining element includes a leaf spring mounting part having a receiving recess to accommodate the leaf spring end; an elastomer molded part configured to rotationally and elastically mount the leaf spring end, wherein the elastomer molded part is arranged in the receiving recess and shaped to at least partially enclose the leaf spring end; and a bearing configured to support the leaf spring mounting part on the vehicle structure.