Spring mechanism for self-lock and centering during loading
US12092183B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 29, 2022 |
| Grant date | Sep 17, 2024 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 14, 2042 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16F2236/06
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus includes an upper member, a lower member disposed beneath the upper member, and a spring disposed between the upper member and the lower member. The upper member has a pin extending downward therefrom. The lower member has a seat configured to receive a free end of the pin. The spring surrounds the pin, and has a free length that is less than the length of the pin. In an unloaded state, the free end of the pin contacts the seat and the spring applies a compressive force to prevent relative lateral movement between the upper member and the lower member. When the lower member carries a load in a loaded state, the load applies a tensile force to the spring that forms a gap between the free end of the pin and the seat, which allows relative lateral movement between the upper member and the lower member.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.