Tapered Elastomeric Spring for Axial and Torsional Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current rotational rubber springs fail to control axial forces in addition to torsional forces, limiting their ability to constrain motion in both directions effectively.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates tapered conically shaped elastomeric members and a tubular casing with a square frustum shape, allowing for axial control by restricting motion in specific directions and optimizing dampening and spring rates through varying cross-sectional shapes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If uniform cross sectional elastomeric members are used, then the device can control torsional force through dampening rotational motion, but the device fails to control axial forces
Solution Approach 1:
The elastomeric members transition from uniform cross-section to tapered cross-section, creating local variation in geometric properties along the length of the member. This local quality change enables the same component to provide both torsional dampening (through the elastomeric material properties) and axial force control (through the tapered geometry that creates mechanical interference with the tapered housing interior), thereby resolving the contradiction between control capability and structural complexity.
2Reliability
If tapered conically shaped elastomeric members with tapered housing are used, then axial motion is restricted and stress under loading is reduced, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the geometric parameters of both the elastomeric members and the housing interior from uniform to tapered configurations. The tapered shape is defined by specific angular relationships (the angle between the tapered surface and the longitudinal axis), transforming the manufacturing challenge into a parameter-defined geometry that can be produced through specialized molding or machining processes, thereby achieving axial constraint while managing manufacturing complexity through standardized geometric definitions.
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 configuration effectively restricts axial motion and reduces stress under torsional and axial loading, providing enhanced control over rotational and axial forces compared to traditional designs.
Implementation Method 1
a series of elongated elastomeric members... provides a resistive rotational spring force between the shaft and the casing
Implementation Method 2
The compression generates a resistance to the applied torsional force. The resistance is provided in a form of a spring and a damper
Implementation Method 3
The tapered configuration reduces stress under torsional and axial loading... providing an axial constraint
Data Source
AI summary
A rotational and axial control spring includes a tubular casing, a shaft, and a plurality of elongated elastomeric members. The casing comprises a first end, a second end, and a plurality of interior surfaces extending therebetween defining a casing interior. The first end is smaller than the second end, forming a frustum shaped tubular casing. The cross sectional shape of the casing can include three (3) or more sides. The shaft is fabricated having a series of exterior surfaces, wherein a cross sectional shape of the shaft is similar to the cross sectional shape of the casing. The elastomeric members are formed as cylindrical frustums. The shaft is inserted within the casing interior. Each elastomeric member is positioned contacting a respective shaft exterior surface and a pair of adjacent casing interior surfaces. The elastomeric members each provide a rotational spring with adjustable resistant force and dampening functions. The tapered features provide an axial retention function.