Gas spring and damper assemblies and methods

摘要

A gas spring and damper assembly can include a first gas spring having a first spring rate and a second gas spring connected in series with the first gas spring. The second gas spring can have a second spring rate that is at least two times the first spring rate of the first gas spring. A damper can be operatively connected with at least one of the first and second gas springs. A suspension system including one or more of such gas spring and damper assemblies and a method of assembly are also included.

主权项

1. A gas spring and damper assembly comprising:
a first end member; a second end member disposed in spaced relation to said first end member such that a longitudinal axis extends therebetween; an intermediate structure interposed between said first and second end members; a first flexible wall portion operatively connected between said first end member and said intermediate structure, said first flexible wall portion extending peripherally about said axis and at least partially defining a first gas spring having a first spring chamber and a first spring rate; a second flexible wall portion operatively connected between said second end member and said intermediate structure, said second flexible wall portion extending peripherally about said axis and at least partially defining a second gas spring having a second spring chamber and a second spring rate that is at least two times greater than said first spring rate; and, a damper operative to dissipate kinetic energy acting on said assembly, said damper at least partially disposed within at least one of said first and second spring chambers and operatively connected to said intermediate structure and said first end member.