Wrap spring end attachment assembly for a twisted rope torsion bar
US4976417A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 14, 1989 |
| Grant date | Dec 11, 1990 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 14, 2009 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16F1/16
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An end attachment assembly for a twisted rope torsion bar includes anchor nut, an elastomeric hub and a wrap spring adapted for cooperative interaction. The anchor nut provides strength and durability while the elastomeric hub provides resilience and elasticity to beneficially accept the angular deflection of the composite, twisted rope torsion bar when torque is applied. The elastomeric hub is molded onto the end of the torsion bar to improve its connection therewith. The torsion bar is preferably fabricated of a lightweight glass fiber/epoxy composite material. In assembled relation, the nut and hub provide a substantially continuous, even cylindrical surface which cooperates with the wrap spring. The wrap spring tightly engages the nut and hub, securely maintaining the components in adjacent relation. The wrap spring constricts in the presence of applied torque, resulting in a tighter and tighter grip when influenced by increasing torque in a working environment. The constriction of the wrap spring compresses the elastomeric hub around the twisted rope torsion bar to reduce stress concentration at the attachment interface.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.