U.S. patent application number 11/137812 was filed with the patent office on 2006-11-30 for air spring assembly with non-threaded connection.
This patent application is currently assigned to BFS Diversified Products, LLC. Invention is credited to Joshua R. Leonard.
Application Number | 20060267257 11/137812 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 36763839 |
Filed Date | 2006-11-30 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060267257 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Leonard; Joshua R. |
November 30, 2006 |
Air spring assembly with non-threaded connection
Abstract
A connector fitting and air spring assembly includes a connector
fitting supported on an end member of an air spring. The connector
fitting is secured on the air spring by a retaining member engaging
the end member of the air spring.
Inventors: |
Leonard; Joshua R.;
(Noblesville, IN) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Chief IP Counsel;BRIDGESTONE AMERICAS HOLDING, INC.
1200 Firestone Parkway
Akron
OH
44317
US
|
Assignee: |
BFS Diversified Products,
LLC
|
Family ID: |
36763839 |
Appl. No.: |
11/137812 |
Filed: |
May 24, 2005 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
267/64.21 ;
267/122 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F16F 9/04 20130101; F16L
37/0927 20190801; F16L 37/0926 20190801; B60G 11/27 20130101; F16L
37/0925 20130101; B60G 2202/152 20130101; F16F 9/43 20130101; F16L
37/008 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
267/064.21 ;
267/122 |
International
Class: |
F16F 9/04 20060101
F16F009/04 |
Claims
1. A connector fitting adapted for use in securing an associated
component of an associated vehicle suspension system on an
associated air spring thereof, the associated air spring having an
associated spring chamber formed between a spaced-apart pair of
associated end members with one of the associated end members
having an associated outer wall, an associated inner wall and an
associated passage wall defining an associated fitting passage in
communication with the associated spring chamber, said connector
fitting comprising: a fitting housing dimensioned to be received
within the associated fitting passage of the associated end member,
said fitting housing including an outer housing wall and an inner
housing wall, said inner housing wall at least partially defining a
housing passage extending through said fitting housing for
supporting the associated component in communication with the
associated spring chamber, and said outer housing wall including a
radially outwardly extending support surface adapted to engage one
of the associated outer wall and the associated passage wall of the
associated end member; a sealing member sealingly supported between
said fitting housing and the associated passage wall; and, a
plurality of elongated retaining members extending from said
fitting housing, said plurality of retaining members including a
first end extending from said fitting housing and a second end
capable of resilient deflection, said second end including a
projection suitable for engaging one of the associated inner wall
and the associated passage wall.
2. A connector fitting according to claim 1 further comprising a
retaining collet received at least partially within said fitting
passage, said retaining collet including a collet wall and a
plurality of retaining fingers adapted to engage and retain the
associated component within said fitting passage.
3. A connector fitting according to claim 2 further comprising an
inner support sleeve supported within said fitting passage.
4. A connector fitting according to claim 1, wherein said fitting
housing includes a radially outwardly extending flange and said
support surface extends along at least a portion of said
flange.
5. A connector fitting according to claim 4, wherein said support
surface includes a frustoconical portion.
6. A connector fitting according to claim 1, wherein said fitting
housing includes an end wall and said first end of said plurality
of retaining members extends from along said end wall.
7. A connector fitting according to claim 1, wherein said first end
of said plurality of retaining members extends from along said
outer housing wall.
8. A connector fitting according to claim 7, wherein said fitting
housing includes a plurality of flats, and said retaining members
are disposed along said flats in spaced relation to thereto.
9. A connector fitting according to claim 8, wherein said fitting
housing includes an outer end wall and an inner end wall, and said
first end of said retaining members is disposed along said outer
housing wall toward said outer end wall with said support surface
being disposed along said fitting housing between said first end of
said retaining member and said inner end wall.
10. An air spring assembly comprising: a first end member including
a first side, an opposing second side and a substantially
smooth-walled fluid passage extending therethrough; a second end
member in spaced relation to said first end member; a flexible wall
secured between said first and second end members and at least
partially defining a fluid chamber in communication with said fluid
passage; a connector fitting for retaining an associated fluid line
in communication with said fluid chamber, said connector fitting
being supported on said first end member along said fluid passage,
said connector fitting including: a fitting body including a
support surface and a body wall, said body wall at least partially
defining a body passage, said fitting body being at least partially
received in said fluid passage such that said support surface
engages at least a portion of said first end member; a retaining
collar received in said body passage and adapted to engage an
associated exterior surface of the associated fluid line; an inner
support sleeve received in said body passage adjacent said
retaining collar and adapted to engage an associated interior
surface of the associated fluid line; a first sealing member
compressively positioned between said fitting body and said first
end member; and, a second sealing member disposed within said body
passage and compressively positioned between said fitting body and
the associated exterior surface of the associated fluid line; and,
a retaining member adapted to engage said first end member to
retain said connector fitting thereon.
11. An air spring assembly according to claim 10, wherein said
fitting body includes a radially outwardly extending flange, and
said flange is secured in abutting engagement along said first end
member by said retaining member.
12. An air spring assembly according to claim 11, wherein first end
member includes a radially outwardly extending groove disposed
along said fluid passage adjacent an end wall of said fitting body,
and said retaining member extends along a portion of said end wall
and at least partially into said groove to retain said connector
fitting on said first end member.
13. An air spring assembly according to claim 11, wherein said
retaining member is a first retaining member and said connector
fitting includes a second retaining member circumferentially spaced
from said first retaining member on said fitting body, said first
and second retaining members including a first end extending from
said fitting body and an opposing second end spaced from said
fitting body and being capable of resilient deflection.
14. An air spring assembly according to claim 13, wherein said
first and second retaining members include outwardly extending
projections disposed along said second end, said projections being
capable of engaging said first end member and retaining said
connector fitting thereon.
15. An air spring assembly according to claim 13, wherein said
fitting body includes a longitudinally extending groove and one of
said first and second retaining members is disposed along said
groove.
16. An air spring assembly according to claim 15, wherein said
fitting body includes an inner end wall and an outer end wall, and
said first end of said retaining members is disposed along said
fitting body toward said outer end wall with said support surface
longitudinally disposed along said fitting body between said first
end of said retaining members and said inner end wall.
17. An air spring assembly adapted to receive an associated
cartridge fitting suitable for securing an associated air line on
said air spring assembly, said air spring assembly comprising: a
first end member including a first outer wall, an opposing first
inner wall and an end member opening extending through said first
end member, said first end member having a substantially uniform
first end member thickness along said end member opening; a second
end member including a second outer wall and an opposing second
inner wall, said second end member being spaced from said first end
member and oriented such that said second inner wall is disposed
toward said first inner wall; a flexible wall secured between said
first and second end members and at least partially forming a
spring chamber between said first and second inner walls thereof; a
cartridge housing secured along said first inner wall of said first
end member within said spring chamber, said cartridge housing
including a housing passage extending therethrough, said housing
passage being accessible through said end member opening for
receiving the associated cartridge fitting.
18. An air spring assembly according to claim 17, wherein said
cartridge housing includes a first side wall, an opposing second
side wall and pilot extending outwardly from first side wall, said
pilot having a height that is less than or equal to said first end
member thickness and that is received into said end member opening
such that said pilot extends substantially evenly with or is
recessed below said first outer wall.
19. An air spring assembly according to claim 18, wherein said
pilot is substantially cylindrical and extends substantially
coaxially with said housing passage.
20. An air spring assembly according to claim 18, wherein said
housing passage is formed such that the associated cartridge
fitting extends substantially evenly with or is recessed below said
first outer wall of said first end member.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] The present novel concept broadly relates to the art of
fluid suspension devices and, more particularly, to an air spring
assembly with a non-threaded interface adapted to connect or
otherwise attach an associated component, such as an air line or a
sensor.
[0002] The subject connector fitting finds particular application
and use in association with air springs and vehicle suspension
systems, and will be described herein with specific reference
thereto. However, it is to be understood that the subject novel
concept is amenable to broad use and, as such, is equally
applicable in other suitable environments. Accordingly, it will be
understood that the present novel concept is not intended to be
limited to the uses and/or applications described herein, which are
merely exemplary.
[0003] Most known compression fittings for fluid lines, as well as
other multi-piece connectors of similar types, can be used to
secure an air supply line to an air spring. In such arrangements,
an end member of the air spring is normally provided with a
threaded passage that provides communication with the spring
chamber of the air spring. The compression fitting is then threaded
into the passage. Once the fitting has been installed, the air line
is connected thereto in a traditional manner. While such fittings
tend to provide a relatively robust connection between the air line
and the air spring, numerous problems nonetheless exist with these
types of connections. For example, the threaded connection with the
end member of the air spring can to provide a leak path, which
undesirably increases air consumption and decreases system
efficiency.
[0004] Additionally, compression-type fittings are often difficult
and time consuming to install, especially in areas of limited
clearance, such as between structural members and/or body panels of
a vehicle, for example. Though the body of such a fitting can often
be installed ahead of time, numerous other parts of the compression
fitting and fluid line need to be arranged and manipulated after
the air spring has been installed on the vehicle. This undesirably
increases the time and effort required to install or replace an air
spring of a vehicle suspension system.
[0005] What's more, the air line is usually secured in a fixed
position on a compression fitting. That is, the air line is
normally not permitted to move or rotate relative to the connector
or air spring. Thus, the air line and/or fitting can become
undesirably stressed due to the movements of the vehicle body.
Additionally, such an arrangement could result in the air line
being positioned against or otherwise contacting a structural
member or the object. As a result, chaffing, abrasion or other
degradation of the air line could occur. These conditions are
disadvantageous and can lead to premature maintenance, repair
and/or replacement of the air line and/or connector fitting.
[0006] Furthermore, the nature of the fitting and the need for the
fitting body and other components to be accessible for the proper
installation of the air line, requires that the majority of the
fitting project or otherwise extend outwardly from the air spring.
As a result, a certain minimum amount of peripheral clearance is
needed for wrenches or other tools used during the connection of
the air line. This external mounting arrangement also mandates that
the fitting have a certain minimum length, which typically
significantly increases the overall height of the air spring and
fitting assembly. The disadvantage of the extra height is further
increased where the end member of the air spring has an outwardly
projecting boss into which the fitting body is threaded.
[0007] As an alternative to compression and other multi-piece
fittings, so called "push-to-connect" (PTC) fittings have been
developed and have been used in air spring applications. Generally,
these types of connections provide for easier connection of the air
line relative to compression fittings, and PTC fittings also
typically permit the air line to rotate or swivel, which can reduce
the stress on the air line and the fitting. Though PTC fittings
have improved certain aspects of the air spring/air line
connection, numerous disadvantages remain with the use of these
types of connector fittings.
[0008] One example of such a disadvantage is that PTC fittings used
heretofore have only minimally reduced to overall length of the
fitting, if any reduction at all has been achieved. Thus, the
portion of the fitting extending from the threaded connection
undesirably increases the overall height dimension of the air
spring. As a result, the foregoing clearance and other issues
associated with this increased overall height remain unresolved by
known PTC fittings.
[0009] A further disadvantage is that such PTC fittings remain
threadably installed on the exterior of the end member of the air
spring. Therefore, a threaded passage is normally required on the
end member of the air spring and the resulting leakage issues,
discussed above, remain unresolved. Additionally, loads from
tension and movements of the air line, impacts from road debris and
changing temperatures can all act to degrade the integrity of the
threaded connection of both PTC and compression fittings. This is
at least partly due to the installation of the fitting along the
exterior of the air spring.
[0010] Regardless of the type, kind or configuration of threaded
fitting that may be used, the provision and use of threads to
connect an air line or sensor will have numerous disadvantages
associated with such use. One disadvantage is simply the costs
associated with machining the threads on the air spring part or
parts. That is, substantially tight tolerances are normally
maintained on the threaded features and, typically, higher costs
are associated with holding tighter tolerances. For example, where
the threaded part is to be plated or coated, such as for corrosion
resistance, dimensional allowances should be provided on the
threads to accommodate the plating or coating buildup that is to be
later applied.
[0011] Furthermore, threaded connections can result in the
deflection of parts or features which, in turn, can cause assembly
or other problems. For example, air springs commonly use mounting
studs projecting from a top or bead plate to secure the air spring
to an associated structural member. One type of mounting stud is
commonly referred to as a combination stud or fitting, and includes
a central passage used to communicate with the spring chamber of
the air spring. Typically, these so called combination fittings
include both internal and external threads. A threaded connector
fitting is typically secured along the threaded passage to connect
the air line. To form a suitable fluid-tight connection, however,
tapered threads, such as pipe threads, are normally used. As the
fitting is tightened into the internal threads of the combination
fitting, the same becomes outwardly deflected. As a result, the
external threads become oversized, which can undesirably cause
assembly problems.
BRIEF SUMMARY
[0012] A connector fitting is provided in accordance with the
present novel concept that is adapted for use in securing an
associated component of an associated vehicle suspension system on
an associated air spring thereof. The associated air spring has an
associated spring chamber formed between a spaced-apart pair of
associated end members, with one of the associated end members
having an associated outer wall, an associated inner wall and an
associated passage wall defining an associated fitting passage in
communication with the associated spring chamber. The connector
fitting includes a fitting housing dimensioned to be received
within the associated fitting passage of the associated end member.
The connector fitting also includes a sealing member sealingly
supported between the fitting housing and the associated passage
wall, as well as a plurality of elongated retaining members
extending from the fitting housing. The fitting housing includes an
outer housing wall and an inner housing wall. The inner housing
wall at least partially defines a housing passage extending through
the fitting housing for supporting the associated component in
communication with the associated spring chamber. The outer housing
wall includes a radially outwardly extending support surface
adapted to engage one of the associated outer wall and the
associated passage wall of the associated end member. The plurality
of retaining members include a first end extending from the fitting
housing and a second end capable of resilient deflection. The
second end includes a projection suitable for engaging one of the
associated inner wall and the associated passage wall.
[0013] An air spring assembly is provided in accordance with the
present novel concept that includes a first end member and a second
end member in spaced relation to the first end member. The first
end member including a first side, an opposing second side and a
substantially smooth-walled fluid passage extending therethrough.
The air spring assembly also includes a flexible wall secured
between the first and second end members at least partially
defining a fluid chamber in communication with the fluid passage.
The air spring assembly also includes a connector fitting for
retaining an associated fluid line in communication with the fluid
chamber. The connector fitting is supported on the first end member
along the fluid passage and includes a fitting body, a retaining
collar, an inner support sleeve, a first sealing member and a
second sealing member. The fitting body includes a support surface
and a body wall at least partially defining a body passage. The
fitting body is at least partially received in the fluid passage
such that the support surface engages at least a portion of the
first end member. The retaining collar is received in the body
passage and is adapted to engage an associated exterior surface of
the associated fluid line. The inner support sleeve is received in
the body passage adjacent the retaining collar and is adapted to
engage an associated interior surface of the associated fluid line.
The first sealing member is compressively positioned between the
fitting body and the first end member, and the second sealing
member is disposed within the body passage and is compressively
positioned between the fitting body and the associated exterior
surface of the associated fluid line. The air spring assembly also
includes a retaining member adapted to engage the first end member
and retain the connector fitting thereon.
[0014] An air spring assembly is provided in accordance with the
present novel concept that is adapted to receive an associated
cartridge fitting suitable for securing an associated air line on
the air spring assembly, which includes a first end member and a
second end member. The first end member includes a first outer
wall, an opposing first inner wall and an end member opening
extending through the first end member. The first end member has a
substantially uniform first end member thickness along the end
member opening. The second end member includes a second outer wall
and an opposing second inner wall. The second end member is spaced
from the first end member and oriented such that the second inner
wall is disposed toward the first inner wall. Additionally, the air
spring assembly includes a flexible wall secured between the first
and second end members that at least partially forms a spring
chamber between the first and second inner walls thereof. A
cartridge housing is secured along the first inner wall of the
first end member within the spring chamber. The cartridge housing
includes a housing passage extending therethrough. The housing
passage is accessible through the end member opening for receiving
the associated cartridge fitting.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] FIG. 1 is a side elevation view of a known air spring and
fitting assembly.
[0016] FIG. 2 is a side elevation view of one exemplary embodiment
of an air spring and fitting assembly in accordance with the
present novel concept.
[0017] FIG. 3 is an enlarged and exploded side view, in partial
cross section, of the air spring and fitting assembly in DETAIL 3
of FIG. 2.
[0018] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional side view of the air spring and
connector assembly in FIG. 3 shown in an assembled condition.
[0019] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a
fitting suitable for use in forming an air spring and fitting
assembly in accordance with the present novel concept.
[0020] FIG. 6 is a side elevation view of another exemplary
embodiment of an air spring and fitting assembly in accordance with
the present novel concept.
[0021] FIG. 7 is an enlarged cross-sectional side view of the air
spring and fitting assembly in DETAIL 7 of FIG. 6.
[0022] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional side view of an alternate
embodiment of the air spring and fitting assembly in FIGS. 6 and
7.
[0023] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional side view of another alternate
embodiment of the air spring and fitting assembly in FIGS. 6 and
7.
[0024] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional side view of still another
alternate embodiment of the air spring and fitting assembly in
FIGS. 6 and 7.
[0025] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional side view of an exemplary
embodiment of a fitting in accordance with the present novel
concept.
[0026] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of another exemplary
embodiment of a fitting in accordance with the present novel
concept.
[0027] FIG. 13 is a top view of the fitting shown in FIG. 12.
[0028] FIG. 14 is front view of the fitting shown in FIG. 12.
[0029] FIG. 15 is side view of the fitting shown in FIG. 12.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0030] FIG. 1 illustrates a known air spring ASP having a bead
plate BDP, a piston PST spaced from the bead plate and a flexible
wall FLX secured therebetween. Mounting studs STD project outwardly
from bead plate BDP and are suitable for securing the air spring on
a vehicle suspension component (not shown) in a typical manner. A
boss BSS projects upwardly from a top surface TSS of the bead plate
and includes a threaded passage TPG formed therethrough. A typical
push-to-connect fitting FTG includes a threaded portion THD that
threadably interengages the threaded passage. An air line ALN
extends into fitting FTG and is captured therein in a known manner.
As is apparent from FIG. 1, fitting FTG projects outwardly a
substantial distance from top surface TSS, as indicated by
dimension HGT. This can undesirably result in clearance, leakage
and other issues, as discussed above in detail.
[0031] Referring now in greater detail to FIGS. 2-15, wherein the
showings are for the purposes of illustrating exemplary embodiments
of the subject novel concept only, and not for the purposes of
limiting the same, FIG. 2 illustrates an air spring and fitting
assembly 100 in accordance with the present novel concept. Air
spring and fitting assembly 100 includes an air spring (not
numbered) having a first end member, such as a bead plate 102, for
example, and a second end member, such as a piston 104, for
example, spaced from the first end member. A flexible wall 106 is
disposed between the bead plate and piston and can be secured
thereto in any suitable manner. The flexible wall at least
partially defines a spring chamber (not shown) formed therewithin
between the opposing end members. A suitable mounting arrangement,
such as mounting studs 108, for example, are provided and extend
from bead plate 102. Additionally, it will be appreciated that the
rolling lobe-type air spring shown and described herein is merely
exemplary of a suitable air spring, and that any other suitable
type, kind and/or configuration of an air spring can alternately be
used.
[0032] FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate air spring and fitting assembly 100
in further detail. More specifically, FIG. 3 shows bead plate 102
and a cartridge housing 110 in cross section and prior to assembly
with a cartridge fitting 112 and a retaining member, such as
retaining ring 114, for example. Bead plate 102 includes an outer
surface or wall 116, an inner surface or wall 118, and an opening
wall 120 forming an opening 122 through the bead plate.
[0033] Cartridge housing 110 includes a top wall 124 and an
opposing bottom wall 126. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3 and 4,
cartridge housing 110 is substantially cylindrical and includes a
cylindrical side wall 128. However, it will be appreciated that any
suitable shape and/or configuration can alternately be used. The
cartridge housing also includes a housing inner wall 130 defining a
housing passage 132 extending through the cartridge housing.
Additionally, a pilot 134 projects outwardly from top wall 124 and
includes a pilot side wall 136 and a pilot end wall 138.
[0034] A plurality of geometric features and surfaces are formed
along housing inner wall 130 toward top wall 124 and pilot 134. In
the exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, a radially
outwardly extending groove 140 is formed along housing passage 132
between spaced-apart groove walls 142. Additionally, a cartridge
seating surface 144 is formed adjacent groove 140 but spaced
therefrom toward bottom wall 126. Optionally, a feature, such as a
frustoconical relief 146, for example, can be provided adjacent
groove 140 opposite seating surface 144 that may be useful for
manufacturing or assembly purposes, such as for facilitating
installation of cartridge fitting 112 and retaining ring 114 on the
cartridge housing, for example.
[0035] As can be better seen in FIG. 4, cartridge fitting 112 is
received into cartridge passage 132 of cartridge housing 110 such
that a radially outwardly extending flange 148 of cartridge body
150 engages seating surface 144 thereby supporting the cartridge
fitting on the cartridge housing. Retaining ring 114 is fitted into
groove 140 thereby capturing flange 148 and retaining cartridge
fitting 132 within the cartridge housing. One or more sealing
members, such as o-rings 152, for example, are sealingly positioned
between cartridge body 150 and housing inner wall 130 forming a
substantially fluid-tight seal therebetween.
[0036] Cartridge body 150 includes an inside wall 154 at least
partially defining a fitting passage 156 extending therethrough. A
retaining collet 158 is received within fitting passage 156, and
includes a collet base wall 160 and a plurality of retaining
fingers 162. A radially inwardly extending projection 164 is formed
on the retaining fingers and is useful for engaging the associated
outside surface of the associated air line or supply tube. An inner
support sleeve 166 is disposed within fitting passage 156 and is
suitable for being received inside the associated air line. A
sealing member, such as an o-ring 168, is also provided within
fitting passage 156 and is suitable for forming a substantially
fluid-tight seal between the associated outside surface of the
associated air line and inside wall 154 of cartridge body 150. It
will be appreciated that the structure and operation of cartridge
fittings, such as cartridge fitting 112, for example, are generally
well known. One example of a suitable cartridge fitting is
commercially available under the designation Prestomatic Removeable
Tank Cartridges from Parker Hannifin Corporation, Parker Brass
Products Division of Otsego, Mich.
[0037] Another embodiment of a suitable cartridge fitting 200 is
shown in FIG. 5, and includes a cartridge body portion 202 and a
connector portion 204. Cartridge fitting 200 is suitable for use
with a cartridge housing, such as cartridge housing 110 described
above, for example, and will be discussed with reference thereto.
Cartridge body portion 202 includes an outer wall 206 dimensioned
to be received within a housing passage, such as housing passage
132 of cartridge housing 110, for example, and includes one or more
sealing members, such as o-rings 208, for example, supported along
outer wall 206 for forming a substantially fluid-tight seal with an
inner wall of a cartridge housing, such as housing inner wall 130,
for example. One or more grooves 210 can optionally be provided
along outer wall 206 for receiving o-rings 208. Additionally, body
portion 202 includes a top wall 212, a bottom wall 214 and a
radially outwardly extending flange portion 216 extending from
outer wall 206 adjacent top wall 212. Flange portion 216 is
generally suitable for engaging seating surface 144 of cartridge
housing 110.
[0038] Connector portion 204 extends from body portion 202, and
includes a first section 218 and a second section 220 disposed at
an angle AG1 relative to first section 218. A fitting passage 222
extends through connector portion 204 and body portion 202, and is
suitable for placing an associated air line (not shown) secured on
the connector portion in communication with an associated spring
chamber of an associated air spring. A retaining collet 224 and a
sealing member (not shown) are provided on the end of second
section 220 for securing the associated air line within the fitting
passage as discussed above with regard to cartridge fitting 112,
for example.
[0039] Another embodiment of an air spring and fitting assembly 300
in accordance with the present novel concept is shown in FIG. 6.
Air spring and fitting assembly 300 includes an air spring (not
numbered) having a first end member, such as a bead plate 302, for
example, and a second end member, such as a piston 304, for
example, spaced from the first end member. A flexible wall 306 is
disposed between the bead plate and piston, and can be secured
thereto in any suitable manner. The flexible wall at least
partially defines a spring chamber (not shown) formed therewithin
between the opposing end members. A suitable mounting arrangement,
such as mounting studs 308, for example, are provided and extend
from bead plate 302. Additionally, it will be appreciated that the
rolling lobe-type air spring shown and described herein is merely
exemplary of a suitable air spring, and that any other suitable
type, kind and/or configuration of an air spring can alternately be
used.
[0040] As shown in further detail in FIG. 7, bead plate 302
includes an opening 310 formed therethrough with a connector
fitting 312 secured therealong. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 7,
bead plate 302 is formed from substantially thin-walled sheet
material having a nominal wall thickness that is substantially less
than the length of fitting 312. As such, opening 310 is formed
through bead plate 302 by deforming a portion of the bead plate
sheet material into a side wall 314 that defines opening 310. Thus,
the side wall extends from bead plate 302 into the spring chamber
(not shown) and terminates at an end wall 316. An alternate
arrangement is shown in FIG. 8 in which a bead plate 302' is formed
from a material having a substantially greater thickness than that
of bead plate 302 in FIG. 7. This increased thickness is
approximately equivalent to the length of side wall 314 in FIG. 7,
such that connector fitting 312 can be suitably installed thereon.
Thus, it will be appreciated that any suitable wall thickness
and/or construction of an end member can be used departing from the
principles of the present novel concept.
[0041] Returning to FIG. 7, connector fitting 312 includes a
fitting body 318. The fitting body includes an outer wall 320 and a
radially outwardly extending flange 322 forming a shoulder surface
324. A sealing member, such as an o-ring 326, for example, is
disposed between fitting body 318 and side wall 314 forming a
substantially fluid-tight seal therebetween. Optionally, a radially
inwardly extending groove 328 can be formed on the fitting body for
receiving and retaining o-ring 326.
[0042] Fitting body 318 also includes an inside wall 330 that at
least partially defines a fitting passage 332 extending through the
fitting body. An inner support sleeve 334 is received within
fitting passage 332 and is supported therein on fitting body 318.
Additionally, a retaining collet 336 is received within fitting
passage 332 and is supported on fitting body 318 toward an outer
end wall 338 thereof. Collet 336 includes a collet base wall 340
and a plurality of retaining fingers 342 extending from the collet
base wall. The retaining fingers include radially inwardly
extending projections 344 formed along the free ends thereof
suitable for gripping or otherwise interengaging the outer surface
of an associated air line. Additionally, a sealing member, such as
an o-ring 346, for example, is disposed within fitting passage 322
between support sleeve 334 and retaining collet 336, and is
suitable for forming a substantially fluid-tight seal between
inside wall 330 of fitting body 318 and the associated outer
surface of the associated air line.
[0043] Connector fitting 312 is received in opening 310 such that
one of flange 322 and shoulder surface 324 engage bead plate 302,
which thereby prevents the connector fitting from passing through
opening 310. To prevent the inadvertent removal of connector
fitting 312 from opening 310, a plurality of retaining members 348
extend from fitting body 318 and engage end wall 316. In one
exemplary embodiment, the plurality of retaining members are
substantially evenly spaced around the circumference or periphery
of the fitting body. However, it will be appreciated that any
suitable arrangement and/or configuration of retaining members can
alternately be used. The retaining members include a first or
attached end 350 extending from fitting body 318, and a second or
free end 352 opposite the attached end. Additionally, a projection
354 extends radially outwardly from along the free end of the
retaining members and includes a frustoconical or otherwise tapered
surface 356 and a shoulder 358 suitable for engaging end wall 316.
Preferably, retaining members 348 are resiliently deflectable such
that free ends 352 can be radially inwardly displaced as surfaces
356 engage the bead plate during insertion of connector fitting 312
into opening 310. Once the connector fitting has been sufficiently
displaced or inserted into the opening, projections 354 of
retaining members 348 pass through the opening beyond end wall 316
and return to a radially outwardly biased position in which
shoulders 358 engage end wall 316 and prevent the inadvertent
removal of the connector fitting from opening 310. An alternate
embodiment of fitting body 318 is shown in FIG. 9 as fitting body
318', which includes a flange 322' and a frustoconical surface 324'
instead of the generally rectangularly shaped flange and shoulder
surface of fitting body 318.
[0044] Another alternate embodiment of an air spring and fitting
assembly 400 in accordance with the present novel concept is shown
in FIG. 10. Air spring and fitting assembly 400 includes a bead
plate 402, a mounting stud 404 and a connector fitting 406. Bead
plate 402 includes an opening wall 408 defining an opening 410
extending through the bead plate. Mounting stud 404 includes a
flange portion 412 extending radially outwardly beyond opening 410
and forming a shoulder 414 with a pilot portion 416 suitable for
being received within opening 410. Mounting stud 404 also includes
a threaded portion 418 extending outwardly from bead plate 402
toward an end wall 420. An inside wall 422 forms a fluid passage
424 through mounting stud 404, and includes a radially inwardly
stepped wall portion 426 forming a shoulder 428 therein. Connector
fitting 406 extends into passage 424 and engages shoulder 428 to
secure the connector fitting thereon. Additionally, a sealing
member, such as an o-ring (not shown), for example, can be included
on the connector fitting to form a substantially fluid-tight seal
along inside wall 422 within passage 424.
[0045] FIG. 11 illustrates another embodiment of an air spring and
fitting assembly 500 in accordance with the present novel concept.
Air spring and fitting assembly 500 includes an air spring (not
shown) having an end member, such as a bead plate 502, for example.
Air spring and fitting assembly 500 also includes a connector
fitting 504 secured on the bead plate of the air spring. Bead plate
502 includes an outside wall or surface 506 and an opposing inside
wall or surface 508. A passage 510 is formed through bead plate 502
by a passage wall 512. A radially outwardly extending retaining
groove 514 is formed on passage wall 512 between groove walls 516
and 518. Additionally, passage wall 512 includes a sealing portion
520 that has a reduced diameter suitable for forming a
substantially fluid-tight seal with connector fitting 504.
[0046] Connector fitting 504 includes a sensor SNR, such as a
temperature, pressure or height sensor, for example, having a wire
WRE or other electrical lead that extends from the sensor.
Connector fitting 504 also includes a connector body 522 formed
around sensor SNR in a suitable manner, such as by using an
injection molding process to overmold the connector body on the
sensor, for example. Connector body 522 includes a radially
outwardly extending flange portion 524 that forms a shoulder
surface 526 engaging outer wall 506 of bead plate 502. Connector
body 522 also includes an elongated sealing portion 528 and a
sealing member, such as an o-ring 530, for example, disposed along
the sealing portion and forming a substantially fluid-tight seal
between sealing portion 528 of fitting body 522 and sealing portion
520 of passage wall 512. A groove 532 can optionally be provided
along sealing portion 528 for receiving o-ring 530. Additionally, a
plurality of retaining members 534 extend from fitting body 522 and
include a first or attached end 536 and a second or free end 538. A
barb 540 is provided along free end 538 and includes a shoulder
portion 542 engaging groove wall 516 to secure connector fitting
504 on bead plate 502. Free end 538 is resiliently deflectable to
permit installation of the connector fitting on the bead plate, and
is capable of returning to a radially outwardly biased position
such that barbs 540 can engage the opposing side of the bead plate
and secure the connector fitting thereon.
[0047] Still another embodiment of a connector fitting 600 in
accordance with the present novel concept is shown in FIGS. 12-15.
It will be appreciated that certain embodiments of the connector
fittings shown and described hereinbefore can be more difficult
than others to remove and/or replace, after being installed on an
end member of an air spring. For example, embodiments discussed
above that include retaining members that extend axially into the
fitting passage in the end member and include a projection or barb
that engages an inner wall or surface of the end member can be
particularly difficult to remove from the end member of the air
spring. Connector fitting 600, however, is capable of being easily
removed from an end wall of an air spring, once it has been
installed thereon. This can be beneficial in certain applications
where inspection, repair and/or replacement of the connector
fitting and/or component thereof is desirable.
[0048] Additionally, it will be appreciated that connector fitting
600 is shown in FIGS. 12-15 without reference to any particular
internal structure or features thereof, and will be described
herein without any particular reference thereto. As such, it is to
be understood that connector fitting 600 is capable of broad use in
a wide variety of applications and can include any suitable
internal structure and/or components without departing from the
principles of the present novel concept. As one example, a
connector fitting adapted for easy removal from an end member, such
as connector fitting 600, for example, could include a sensor
disposed therein with a fitting body formed therearound, such as is
shown in connector fitting 504 shown in FIG. 11, for example. As
another example, a connector fitting adapted for easy removal from
an end member, such as connector fitting 600, for example, could
include an inner support sleeve, a sealing member and a retaining
collet for receiving an end of a length of associated air line,
such as is shown in connector fitting 312 in FIG. 7, for
example.
[0049] Returning to FIGS. 12-15, connector fitting 600 includes a
side wall 602 extending between opposing end walls 604 and 606. A
radially outwardly extending flange 608 includes opposing flange
walls 610 and 612, and is suitable for engaging a wall or shoulder
of an end member, such as outside wall 506 of air spring and
fitting assembly 500 in FIG. 11, for example. A radially inwardly
extending groove 614 is formed between end wall 606 and a groove
wall 616 spaced therefrom. Opposing flats 618 and 620 are formed
along side wall 602, and retaining members 622 and 624 are disposed
along the exterior of the connector fitting adjacent flats 618 and
620, respectively.
[0050] Retaining members 622 and 624 each include an inner surface
or wall 626 and an outer surface or wall 628 generally opposite the
inner surface or wall. Retaining members 622 and 624 are supported
on the connector fitting at an attachment end 630 thereof and are
oriented such that the inner walls 626 disposed toward flats 618
and 620. The retaining members are spaced from the body of the
connector fitting such that a gap 632 is formed between flats 618
and 620 and corresponding inner walls 626. The retaining members
include a free end 634 opposite attachment ends 630, and a
projection 636 extends radially outwardly from the retaining
members along the free ends thereof. In one exemplary embodiment,
outer walls 628 are formed with the same curvature as the other
portions of the body. However, it will be appreciated that any
suitable shape can be used.
[0051] In use, connector fitting 600 is received on an end member
of an air spring, such as end member 502, for example. In one
exemplary embodiment, connector fitting 600 is received in the
opening or passage formed in the end member, such as passage 510,
for example, such that flange 608 is in abutting engagement with
the end member. As such, a retaining portion 638 between the flange
and the projections is received within the fitting passage, and an
outer portion 640 extends outwardly beyond the fitting passage of
the end member. To remove the connector fitting from the fitting
passage, free ends 634 of the retaining members are forced radially
inwardly to release projections 636 from a suitable groove or
shoulder formed along the fitting passage. The retaining members
can be displaced in such a manner by squeezing the exposed portion
of the retaining members extending along outer portion 640. As
such, connector fitting 600 can be selectively removed from the end
member.
[0052] The present novel concept, as shown and described with
reference to the foregoing exemplary embodiments, can be used to
overcome one or more problems and disadvantages existing in known
constructions and arrangements. For example, the costs associated
with manufacturing threaded components can be reduced by
eliminating the threads on the fitting and corresponding part. As
another example, the difficulties associated with installing and/or
repairing air springs, especially in areas of reduced clearance,
can also be minimized by utilizing the present novel concept, such
as one of the foregoing embodiments, for example. That is, the
elimination of the threaded connection coupled with the low-profile
construction and push-in or snap-in design can result in quicker
and easier installation and reduced or minimized clearance related
problems.
[0053] Another advantage that is associated with the use of the
present novel concept relates to the production and inventory of
air spring components. More specifically, it will be appreciated
that air lines of a variety of sizes are commonly used in
association with air spring assemblies. For example, otherwise
identical air springs might have different threaded passages to
receive different sized threaded fittings, such as 3/8'' NPT, 1/2''
NPT, 3/4'' NPT and/or similar metric thread sizes, for example. By
utilizing a connection arrangement in accordance with the present
novel concept, air spring components having a single diameter hole
or bore can be manufactured. Fittings having the same external
dimensions but having different sized internal arrangements to
receive different sized tubing or sensors can be used. Thus, the
number of variations of air spring components can be reduced.
[0054] While the subject novel concept has been described with
reference to the foregoing embodiments and considerable emphasis
has been placed herein on the structures and structural
interrelationships between the component parts of the embodiments
disclosed, it will be appreciated that other embodiments can be
made and that many changes can be made in the embodiments
illustrated and described without departing from the principles of
the subject novel concept. Obviously, modifications and alterations
will occur to others upon reading and understanding the preceding
detailed description. Accordingly, it is to be distinctly
understood that the foregoing descriptive matter is to be
interpreted merely as illustrative of the present novel concept and
not as a limitation. As such, it is intended that the subject novel
concept be construed as including all such modifications and
alterations insofar as they come within the scope of the appended
claims and any equivalents thereof.
* * * * *