Machine element or mechanism – Elements – Pitmans and connecting rods
Reexamination Certificate
2000-04-07
2001-12-04
Bucci, David A. (Department: 3682)
Machine element or mechanism
Elements
Pitmans and connecting rods
C174S047000, C074S586000, C057S230000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06324940
ABSTRACT:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates generally to a link. It relates particularly to a suspension link or the like having a composite fiber construction.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Links are used to connect two components together. In automotive applications, links are often used in the suspension system. In that context, links typically allow connected suspension system components to move along one axis relative to each other.
One known type of link is cast or forged of metal. Each end of the link includes a metal cylinder. The axes of the cylinders are parallel to each other. The cylinders are connected to each other by a metal rod or tube. A cylindrical rubber insert is press fitted into each cylinder. A hollow metal bushing is seated in each insert. Bolts extending through the bushings are connected to respective components. A nut is tightened onto each bolt to hold the link.
The parallel bushings allow the components at each end of the link to rotate on an axis. The rubber inserts allow limited angular and lateral motion. The rubber inserts also cushion vibrations and shocks. Thus, vibrations and shocks are isolated from one end of the link to the other.
There are a number of problems associated with this type of link, however. Since the link is made primarily metal, it adds substantial weight to a vehicle. Increased weight results in decreased gas mileage. Additionally, the forging, casting or welding necessary to assemble the link is costly.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
An object of the present invention is to provide an improved composite link.
Another object is to provide an improved composite link which is as sturdy as its predecessors, or sturdier, yet is lighter and less expensive.
The foregoing and other objects are realized in a composite link comprising opposing end fittings connected by a primary layer of fiber formed by a strand of fiber wound longitudinally between the fittings and a secondary layer of fiber formed by a strand wound transversely of the first layer. The strand forming the primary and secondary layers is preferably a continuous strand. The strand may be glass fibers or other kinds of fibers. It is wetted with resin prior to winding.
In one embodiment, a composite link includes a connecting rod having a first cross-section shape. End fittings are seated on opposing ends of the rod. At least one end fitting has first and second ends. The first end has a second cross-section shape that substantially conforms to the first cross-section shape and the second end has a third cross-section shape that is different than the second cross-section shape. A fiber is wound around the second end, over a portion of the first end, and over a portion of the connecting rod.
In another embodiment, a composite link includes a center member having a first cross-section shape. An end fitting has at least a first recessed surface, a second cross-section shape that is different than the first cross-section shape and that includes the first recessed surface, and a transition section. The transition section has a second cross-section shape that substantially conforms to the first cross-section shape at a first end and a third cross-section shape that substantially conforms to the first recessed surface at a second end. A fiber is wound over a portion of the first recessed surface, over a portion of the transition section and over a portion of the center member.
In still another embodiment of the invention, a composite link includes a center member in the form of a square cross-section tube fabricated of fiber reinforced composite. The link further includes an end fitting at each end of the tube. Each fitting includes a substantially rectangular cross-section mounting projection and a generally cylindrical head. The mounting projection on each fitting is received in a corresponding end of the tube.
In the invention, the strand of fiber forming the secondary layer is wound with a high pitch angle around the connecting rod from adjacent one end to adjacent another end of the rod. Then the strand of fiber is wound with a low pitch angle between opposite ends, over the first strand in the secondary layer.
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Burzawa Michael T.
Gaertner Ernst Matthew
Pazdirek Jiri V.
Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione
Bucci David A.
Hansen Colby
Lione Richard G.
MacLean-Fogg Company
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