Torsional element for steering valves and spring characteristic improving process

US5851006A · kind A · utility

Assignee

• TRW Fahrwerksysteme GmbH & Co. KG · DE

Inventors

• Robert Spillner · Düsseldorf, DE
• Lars Hampe · Düsseldorf, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Apr 25, 1997
• Grant date: Dec 22, 1998
• Expiry date: Apr 25, 2017

Classification

• Technology area (CPC F): Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
• CPC primary: F16F3/02
• WIPO field: Mechanical elements
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A torsion element (1) for a steering valve is provided. The torsion element (1) comprises a torsionally elastic rod member (2) having axially opposite first and second end areas (3, 4) which are rotatable relative to one another. The rod member (2) has a circumferentially spaced plurality of radially and axially extending indentations (10) adjacent the second end area. A generally tubular, torsionally stiff sleeve member (6) encircles the rod member (2) and is fixedly attached to the first end area (4) of the rod member. The sleeve member (6) includes a circumferentially spaced plurality of radially and axially extending grooves (9) which align with and radially overlie the plurality of indentations (10) in a neutral steering condition. The sleeve member (6) further includes a circumferentially spaced plurality of radial slots (7). The plurality of grooves (9) cooperates with the plurality of indentations (10) to exert a radially directed centering force on the rod member (2) upon rotation of one of the end areas (3, 4) of the rod member from the neutral steering condition.