This class includes vehicle-springs, elastic extension devices,
reciprocating-bed-cushioning devices, and miscellaneous spring structures
which are not peculiar to any particular art.
Beds,
subclasses 246+ for a spring device disclosed as for a bed, subclasses
655.7+ for a spring containing support for a user"s
body or part thereof, and subclasses 716+ for a mattress comprising
an innerspring core.
Expansible Chamber Devices, appropriate subclasses. See the SEARCH CLASS note
to Class 267 in the class definition of Class 92, for the line between
an expansible chamber device for Class 92, and a fluid spring device for
Class 267.
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture, appropriate subclasses for a method of making a
leaf spring involving the chemical bonding of plural leaves.
Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles,
subclasses 544+ for stock materials, e.g., of indefinite length,
which are all metal or have adjacent metal components, especially
subclass 591 for such stock material having a feature for affording
relative movement between components thereof.
SECTION III - GLOSSARY
The following terms are referenced by some of the
definitions of subclasses 2+.
COIL SPRING
an element in the form of a spiral and which exhibits resilient
characteristic when distorted from its original shape. May be in
the form of a helix, a volute spiral or flat spiral.
HELICAL COIL SPRING
an element in the form of a serial lying on the surface
of a cylinder and which exhibits resilient characteristics when
distorted from its original shape.
LEAF SPRING
an element comprising a plate or bar or a plurality of superposed
plates or bars and which exhibits resilient characteristics when
a portion is deflected transversely of length of the element
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Spring devices under the class definition which includes
a spring element to cushion relative movement between parts of a
vehicle and which do not involve in their application to such use
any substantial modification of the vehicle structure.
(1)
Note. Generally, those patents which have no disclosure for
vehicular use have not been cross-referenced to this and indented
subclasses.
through 182, appropriate subclass for a spring device
of the nonsupport type useful in vehicles, or for supporting supplementary
vehicle equipment (e.g., seat, motor, transmission).
Motor Vehicles, appropriate subclasses for motor vehicles in which there
is a special relationship between a spring element and parts peculiar
to motor-vehicle construction.
Land Vehicles,
subclasses 5.5+ for a general utility land vehicle including an
active suspension responsive to a force encountered while the vehicle
is in surface traversing motion which usually involves a spring
device or element; subclasses 6.15+ for a general utility
land vehicle including means, interposed between a vehicle body,
chassis, or frame and running gear thereof, for altering height
or levelness of the vehicle body, chassis, or frame which may or
may not involve a spring device or element; subclass 79 for a general
utility wheeled land vehicle provided with springs between the wheel
or wheels and the load-support, noting the search notes provided
therein; subclasses 124.1+ for a general utility wheeled
land vehicle running gear suspension arrangement; or subclasses
275+ or 283+ for a general utility occupant propelled-type
land vehicle including yielding framework or running gear which
may or may not involve a spring device or element (it is noted that
in accordance with the (2) Note of Class 280, subclass 200, motorcycle frames
and running gear, without features causing classification in Class 180,
Motor Vehicles, are included in these subclasses). Patents classified
in this class (Class 267) as originals may include vehicle parts
directly related to vehicle suspension (e.g., fluid damper, upper
or lower control arm) and vehicle parts which are nominally recited
as either a reference or mounting structure for the spring.
Chairs and Seats,
subclasses 195.1+ for springs used in saddle seat construction; subclasses
285+ for springs used in chairs and seats so that a back is
resiliently supported; subclass 312 for springs resiliently supporting
independently movable sections of a seat bottom.
This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Spring devices especially adapted for railway rolling-stock
and not classified in other subclasses of this class.
Railway Draft Appliances, for spring devices in which the sole specific use is
disclosed as a railway draft appliance (e.g., a draft or buffing
means) or in which the claim is limited to a railway draft appliance.
This subclass is indented under subclass 259. Device comprising a leaf- spring, a coil-spring, and a fluid-pressure
spring are combined in the same structure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 31. Device wherein the fluid- pressure-spring element is interposed
between the end of the leaf-spring and a supporting or supported
member.
Land Vehicles,
subclasses 5.5+ for a general utility land vehicle including an
active suspension responsive to a force encountered while the vehicle
is in surface traversing motion which may or may not involve a leaf
spring device or element; subclasses 6.15+ for a general
utility land vehicle including means, interposed between a vehicle
body, chassis, or frame and running gear thereof, for altering height
or levelness of the vehicle body, chassis, or frame which may or may
not involve a leaf spring device or element; subclass 79 for a general utility
wheeled land vehicle provided with springs between the wheel or wheels
and the load-support, noting the search notes provided therein; subclass
86.5 for a general utility wheeled land vehicle including an auxiliary
axle assembly which may or may not have a leaf spring; subclasses 124.1+ for
particular running gear construction of a general utility wheeled
land vehicle, especially subclasses 124.11+, 124.131, 124.14, 124.163,
124.165, or 124.171+ for particular running gear constructions which
employ a leaf spring; or subclasses 680 or 686 for a general utility wheeled
land vehicle tandem axle running gear having a leaf spring.
This subclass is indented under subclass 37.1. Spring device including a casing which encloses the spring
element and which is formed either from a strip of material coiled about
and along the spring element, or from rubber or a material which
exhibits similar characteristics.
This subclass is indented under subclass 37.1. Spring device wherein the casing comprises three distinct
sections oriented in an end-to-end fashion along the longitudinal
axis or the leaf spring.
(1)
Note. Typically, the individual sections are relatively moveable
to permit flexure of the casing with the spring.
This subclass is indented under subclass 37.1. Spring device including a compartment or material adapted
to contain a fluid to be applied to relatively moving portions of
the device to reduce friction therebetween.
Lubrication, appropriate subclasses for devices of general utility
applied externally to leaf-springs for the purpose of supplying
them with lubrication and involving no cooperating modification
of the spring.
This subclass is indented under subclass 36.1. Device wherein the leaf-spring which support the vehicle-body
are secured to side-bars, which extend longitudinally of the body
from axle to axle.
This subclass is indented under subclass 36.1. Device wherein the vehicle-body is supported on leaf-springs
which extend longitudinally thereof from axle to axle.
This subclass is indented under subclass 36.1. Device wherein the spring element is connected at one end
to the axle and at its other end, and sometimes at an intermediate
point also, to the vehicle-body or to a body-supporting spring.
This subclass is indented under subclass 36.1. Device wherein endless or continuous leaf-springs consisting
of members having their adjacent ends only connected, integrally
or otherwise, and having their intermediate portions free for relative
approach or recession, except where the novelty resides in structure.
(See definition of subclass 47).
(1)
Note. Those patents which claim only end connecting structure
for an elliptic spring have been classified in subclass 261 below.
This subclass is indented under subclass 36.1. Device wherein leaf-springs comprising two leaf-spring elements
secured together and bending in the same or substantially the same plane,
one of said elements being of elliptic type.
This subclass is indented under subclass 36.1. Device comprising leaf-springs of generally straight or
semi-elliptic type, except where the novelty resides in structure.
(See definition of subclass 47).
This subclass is indented under subclass 26. Device in which leaf-springs comprising two leaf-spring
elements secured together and bending in substantially the same
plane, one of said elements being of semi-elliptic type.
This subclass is indented under subclass 36.1. Device limited to the structure of the leaf-spring element,
either of the individual leaf or the cooperating structure of the
several leaves and parts without relation to their configuration in
the bending-plane.
This subclass is indented under subclass 47. Device wherein the leaf-spring element comprises one or
more main leaves and one or more auxiliary leaves having a normal
curvature different from that of the main leaves, so that when all
of the leaves are secured together to form the spring element the
auxiliary leaves in tending to assume their normal curvature exert
tension on the main leaves.
This subclass is indented under subclass 47. Device wherein the spring element is structurally modified
to provide for lubrication. Includes lubricant--carriers in the
form of strips adapted to be interposed between the leaves of the
spring element.
This subclass is indented under subclass 36.1. Device which includes emergency devices adapted to be applied
to broken leaf-springs to effect a temporary repair, devices permanently associated
with leaf-springs and normally idle, but adapted to support the
load in case of breakage of the spring, and devices normally performing
the function of auxiliary springs, but which may be employed to
repair the main spring in case of breakage.
This subclass is indented under subclass 36.1. Device having means for connecting leaf-springs other than
cantilever-springs intermediate their ends to parts of the vehicle,
together with cooperating leaf modifications.
(1)
Note. An intermediate connection of the leaf spring for the
purpose of enabling the axle to rock in its vertical axial plane are
not proper for this class (267) but rather will be found in Class
280, Land Vehicles.
Land Vehicles,
subclasses 124.1+ for particular running gear construction of a general
utility wheeled land vehicle, especially subclasses 124.11+ wherein
an axle or axle assembly is pivotally mounted upon the vehicle body,
chassis, or frame which may involve a leaf spring, or subclasses 124.175+ for
a residual leaf spring suspension including a connection feature;
or subclasses 680 or 686 for a general utility wheeled land vehicle tandem
axle running gear having a leaf spring.
This subclass is indented under subclass 36.1. Devices for tying or clamping the individual leaves of leaf-spring
elements together, with cooperating leaf modifications.
(1)
Note. Devices of this character which are modified for cooperation
with means for connecting the spring intermediate its ends to a
part of the vehicle are found in this class, subclass 52.
This subclass is indented under subclass 2. A spring device including a receptacle having a compartment
whose volume can be changed, the compartment including a flowable
material which can be compressed as the volume is decreased by the
application of an external force and which will expand when the
force is removed.
(1)
Note. In a fluid-spring device when the compressible fluid
is subjected to compressive force, none of the fluid escapes from
the compartment (e.g., to without the device, or from one side to
the other of a piston head), so that when the force is removed the
compartment returns to its normal volume, due entirely to the expansion
of the compressed fluid; whereas in a fluid dashpot the fluid does escape,
and hence another force must be applied to the device in order to
restore the compartment to its normal volume.
(2)
Note. This subclass and its indents include the combination
of a fluid spring and a retarder device (e.g., fluid dashpot).
This subclass is indented under subclass 64.11. A device wherein a rodlike member is attached to a movable
part of the fluid spring and extends to the exterior of the device
so that the rodlike member is itself longitudinally movable and
including means for fixedly securing the rodlike member in a desired
position.
This subclass is indented under subclass 64.11. A device wherein the compressible material remains in a
liquid state under normal operating conditions.
(1)
Note. Normally, liquids are not compressible; however, this
subclass contains liquids possessing specific chemical natures which
render them compressible.
This subclass is indented under subclass 64.11. A device also including a second compartment, operatively
associated with the first compartment, which is partially or completely
evacuated.
(1)
Note. The evacuation may take place either prior to, or during,
operation of the device.
This subclass is indented under subclass 64.11. A device combined with a device which will not independently
return to its original condition after application of an external
force (e.g., a fluid dashpot), thus retarding the spring"s
distortion or recovery.
This subclass is indented under subclass 64.15. A device including means operable to maintain the spring"s
effective "working range" constant regardless
of various loading conditions, so the "mean riding height" of
the vehicle can be maintained substantially constant.
(1)
Note. "Mean riding height" refers to the distance
between sprung and unsprung parts of the vehicle when it is at rest,
i.e., at the midpoint of the spring"s oscillation, or "working
range".
This subclass is indented under subclass 64.16. A device wherein the means to maintain the spring"s
working range includes a mechanism to generate increased fluid pressure
within the device, the mechanism operating in response to oscillation
of the device.
This subclass is indented under subclass 64.16. A device including an orifice through which fluid flows,
and a rodlike element projecting into the orifice to define a flow
passage therebetween, wherein the rodlike element is adapted to
reciprocate relative to the orifice, thus varying the size of the
passage and variably regulating the flow therethrough to change either
the rate of deflection or the rate of return of the device.
(1)
Note. Devices in this subclass require that either the reciprocating
rodlike element or the orifice be of varying diameter to regulate
the flow.
This subclass is indented under subclass 64.19. A device including a pair of elements, one sliding into
an open end of the other, the elements adapted to reciprocate with
respect to one another, wherein the pliant material is fixedly attached
at its opposite ends to each of the two elements, and excess material
is provided which folds upon itself to form an overlapping, saclike
portion intermediate the ends.
This subclass is indented under subclass 64.15. A device including an orifice through which fluid flows,
and a rodlike element which projects into the orifice to define
a flow passage therebetween, wherein the rodlike element is adapted
to reciprocate relative to the orifice, thus varying the size of
the passage and variably regulating the flow therethrough to change
either the rate of reflection or the rate of return of the device.
(1)
Note. Devices in this subclass require that either the reciprocating
rodlike element or the orifice be of varying diameter to regulate
the flow.
This subclass is indented under subclass 64.23. A device including a pair of elements, one sliding into
an open end of the other, the elements adapted to reciprocate with
respect to one another, wherein the pliant material is fixedly attached
at its opposite ends to each of the two elements, and excess material
is provided which folds upon itself to form an overlapping, saclike
portion intermediate the ends.
This subclass is indented under subclass 64.15. A device including two or more compartments of variable
volume, each including a flowable material which can be compressed.
This subclass is indented under subclass 64.15. A device including two hollow cylinders, each having a closed
end; the external diameter of one cylinder being smaller than the
internal diameter of the other so that the smaller cylinder can
slide into the larger cylinder, wherein the cylinders are adapted
to reciprocate relative to each other against the opposition of
fluid pressure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 64.11. A device wherein means is provided permitting access to
its interior by which fluid may be either introduced into, or removed
from, the device.
This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Devices for positively limiting the recovery of the load-springs,
whether applied directly to the spring or to the relatively-movable
parts of the vehicle, devices for preventing the vehicle-body from
swaying backward and forward or from side to side or for yieldingly
resisting such swaying action, and devices for guiding the relatively-moving
parts of the spring element.
This subclass is indented under subclass 66. Devices wherein the brace is either of resilient material
or has a spring associated with it for rendering its action yielding.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Miscellaneous devices of more or less general application
which contain one or more elastic elements, so that when said devices
are subjected to tension they will be extended and when the tension
is removed they will resume their normal length.
(1)
Note. Devices whose construction especially adapts them to
withstand both extension and contraction are not included here,
but elastic draft-links are included and devices including a novel combination
of fastening element and elastic element.
Mechanical Guns and Projectors,
subclasses 7+ for spring devices actuating projectile throwing
arms, and subclasses 16+ for spring devices actuating a
plunger or similar device to impel a projectile.
This subclass is indented under subclass 69. Structure wherein when the device is extended, the elastic
medium is compressed in a line at right angles to its cross-section.
If the elastic medium contains coils or bends, the compression
is substantially at right angles to the plane of any of the coils
or bends.
This subclass is indented under subclass 69. Structure wherein when the device is extended, the elastic
medium is put under tension in the same direction, as explained
in the definition of subclass 70 above.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Cushioning devices arranged to check the momentum of the
reciprocating bed of a machine, such as a printing-press, lathe,
planing-machine, etc., near the end of its stroke. In some cases
the energy stored up in overcoming the momentum of the bed is utilized
for starting it in the opposite direction.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Device which includes an outline of rigid elongated mounting
elements spaced from each other, and either (1) a resilient load
supporting surface located on or between and connected to said elements,
or (2) a rigid load supporting surface located on or between and
connected to said elements by resilient means.
(1)
Note. Although the load supporting surface may be capable
of receiving the ultimate load directly, a more common arrangement
would include padding and a covering material between the load and the
supporting surface.
(2)
Note. The devices classified in this and the indented subclasses
are mainly the spring subcombinations of chair and seat cushions.
This subclass is indented under subclass 80. Device which includes two or more springs differing in the
kind of substance which they utilize to effect a spring action (as
metal, rubber, air) and acting in concert to support the load.
This subclass is indented under subclass 81. Device in which one of the diverse springs is a metallic
member and another of the springs comprises a fluid containing compartment
having a restricted or valved orifice to regulate the flow of fluid
into or out of the compartment, and the flow of fluid through the
orifice dampens the movement of the metallic spring.
This subclass is indented under subclass 81. Device wherein two or more laminae are disposed one above
the other, and adjacent laminae are metallic and nonmetallic, respectively.
Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles,
subclasses 416 , 418, 432+, 444, 450, and 457+ for
a nonstructural stock material product in the form of a composite
web or sheet embodying a layer of metal next to a layer of nonmetal.
This subclass is indented under subclass 80. Device in which either (1) a plurality of springs are provided,
which springs are superposed upon each other so as to be serially
effective, or (2) an additional spring contacting support is provided
inwardly of the spring"s connection to the frame, which
support is engageable by the spring during its movement to vary
the effective length of the spring.
This subclass is indented under subclass 80. Device in which two or more different types of metal springs
(as leaf, coil, zigzag, elliptical, etc.) cooperate to support the
load, and the different types are disposed one above the other.
This subclass is indented under subclass 86. Device wherein the uppermost layer, composed of a series
of zigzag springs, is mounted on a layer composed of a different
kind of spring.
This subclass is indented under subclass 86. Device wherein the uppermost layer, composed of a series
of axially loaded compressible spiral springs, is mounted on a layer composed
of a different kind of spring.
This subclass is indented under subclass 80. Device in which a means is provided to impose an initial
stress upon the spring prior to the reception thereon of the ultimate
load, so as to vary the effective resilience.
This subclass is indented under subclass 80. Device wherein the panel is composed of a series of spiral
springs, arranged with the axes of the spirals parallel to each
other and aligned in the direction the load is received, and in which
the spiral springs are of the type which receive the load in compression.
This subclass is indented under subclass 91. Device in which the various springs have different coefficients
of resilience (because of differences in size, temper or material).
This subclass is indented under subclass 91. Device in which the upper extremities of the springs carry
or horizontally disposed, overlying sheet, plate or web to increase
the load bearing and contacting area of the springs.
for horizontally disposed spring surfaces, overlying
vertically oriented coil-springs, which surfaces incidentally increase
the load bearing and contacting area of the underlying coil springs
to thereby protect padding.
This subclass is indented under subclass 91. Device in which the surface which supports the load includes
both a coil-spring and a portion which is not a coil-spring and
is not directly supported by a coil spring.
This subclass is indented under subclass 91. Device wherein an end of the panel is provided with a spring
surface or extension, generally normal to the plane of the loading
surface.
This subclass is indented under subclass 91. Device in which the periphery of the loading surface of
the panel is encompassed by a border wire, and in which an additional
wire member is provided parallel to the border wire and attached
thereto to strengthen it or enlarge its dimension.
This subclass is indented under subclass 91. Device in which a stay is connected to and extends between
the load receiving surface and an underlying support on which the
springs are mounted.
This subclass is indented under subclass 91. Device in which the coil springs are elastically supported
on an underlying support by springs which yield in tension.
This subclass is indented under subclass 91. Device in which elongated substantially rigid bars extend
from one side of the frame to the other and are supported by the
frame sides, and wherein the springs are connected and supported
by these bars.
(1)
Note. These elongated bars are known in the art as "furniture
strips".
This subclass is indented under subclass 91. Device in which the coil springs are arranged in rows and
mounted on rods or bars which extend between the rows.
This subclass is indented under subclass 80. Device wherein a portion of the load supporting surface
extends outwardly beyond the means which connect the load supporting
surface to the underlying frame or mounting elements, which portion
is not supported outwardly of its juncture with the said means.
(1)
Note. These devices, when connected to a common border wire,
are known in the art as "soft edges", because
they yield under load more readily than the main surface.
This subclass is indented under subclass 80. Device in which the load receiving surface extends generally
parallel to the frame and is connected thereto and maintained in
a plane separate from the frame by springs.
(1)
Note. The spacing spring means may be integral with and form
an extension from the load receiving surface; however, to fall within
the confines of this and the indented subclasses, there must be
an identifiable portion which yieldingly supports the load receiving
surface.
This subclass is indented under subclass 103. Device wherein additional spacing means are provided, which
additional means are connected at one of its ends to the loading
surface between its edges, and connected at its other end to the
spacing means or to a subjacent support.
This subclass is indented under subclass 103. Device wherein a device is connected to spaced portions
of the loading surface, so that the resiliency of one of the spaced
portions is modified by the transmission and distribution of part
of the load to another spaced portion.
This subclass is indented under subclass 103. Device wherein the elements which constitute the load surface
extend less than the full width between the outermost frame elements,
and a composite load surface is effected by utilizing two or more
elements.
This subclass is indented under subclass 103. Device in which the spring spacing means of at least one
side of the panel includes a generally U-shaped portion, connected
at the ends thereof to the panel and the load supporting surface,
respectively, and in which the apex of the U extends inwardly of
the panel elements.
This subclass is indented under subclass 103. Device wherein the spring spacing means of at least one
side of the panel includes a generally U-shaped portion, connected
at the ends thereof to the panel and the load supporting surface,
respectively, and in which the apex of the U extends outwardly of
the panel elements.
This subclass is indented under subclass 80. Device wherein the load receiving surface extends generally
parallel to the frame and is connected at its outer edges to the
frame.
(1)
Note. Included in this subclass (110) are devices wherein
the loading surface is bowed upwardly from the frame and wherein
a load applied to the loading surface tends to urge the frame members away
from each other.
Beds,
subclass 259.1 for connecting clips (plate and wire) for bedsteads, which
hold the end of the spring panel in place against the frame; and
subclass 260 for a margin rim having connections for border wires.
This subclass is indented under subclass 110. Device wherein the load receiving surface is so mounted
on or below the level of the frame that a load applied to the surface
tends to urge the frame members inwardly toward each other.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Spring device in which the spring element is a gas or a
liquid within an enclosure.
(1)
Note. A spring device enclosure substantially filled with
solid material is excluded from this subclass, even though the material
be fluent, or liquid-saturated or air-saturated.
This subclass is indented under subclass 113. Spring device in which the enclosure is subject to decompression
or fluid loss; and means for effecting said decompression or fluid
loss to a predetermined extent over a predetermined interval.
This subclass is indented under subclass 113. Spring device for interpositioning between bodies in tow
relation with one another to minimize the transfer of forces therebetween resulting
from changes in velocity.
This subclass is indented under subclass 113. Spring device attachable either to a fixed, or to an approaching
body at a location where it would be positioned between the bodies
to minimize collisive impact.
This subclass is indented under subclass 113. Spring device for positioning immediately contiguous to
a human body part; e.g., to a chair seat, back rest, mat.
(1)
Note. The spring device of this subclass may be separated
from direct contact with the human by nothing more than a flexible
covering.
This subclass is indented under subclass 113. Spring device in which the enclosure is bounded by structure
defining top, bottom and side walls, one of which walls is substantially rigid
and another is displaceable, throughout a broad area thereof, to
recoverably vary the cubic capacity of the enclosure.
for a fluid spring device enclosure entirely of
flexible wall structure; or a fluid spring device flexible wall which
is deflected at only a localized point thereof since it has no means
for distributing a localized force throughout the wall.
This subclass is indented under subclass 118. Spring device for minimizing the force of impact in the
shaping operation apparatus utilizing a high degree of impactive
force (e.g., sheet metal drawing apparatus).
This subclass is indented under subclass 118. Spring device for use for cushioning either (a) parts of
a vehicle supported by means other than said spring device or (b)
structure for only auxiliary or temporarily association with a vehicle
(e.g., seat or lading, respectively).
This subclass is indented under subclass 118. Spring device comprising (a) separate contractible-expansible
chambers of which one is piston-modified and the other bellows or diaphragm
modified, or (b) one such chamber and solid-material-spring means,
other than for a mere piston-impetus purpose.
This subclass is indented under subclass 118. Spring device in which the displaceable wall comprises either
(a) a separate, bidirectionally flexible wall member connected throughout
its periphery to the side walls, or (b) accordion-pleated side wall
structure.
(1)
Note. The bidirectionally flexible member may be a septum
between, common to, and flexible simultaneously and inversely vary
the capacity of, contiguous enclosures.
This subclass is indented under subclass 122. Spring device useful for affecting the operation of either
a liquid-flow regulator or means for controlling the air-fuel mixture
of an internal combustion engine.
This subclass is indented under subclass 118. Spring device in which the side wall structure defines a
cylinder and the displaceable wall is a rigid member movable along
and in substantially sealing proximity to said wall structure interior.
This subclass is indented under subclass 124. Spring device useful in an environment including apparatus
for either (a) erecting access means to a subterranean supply of
liquid or (b) extracting liquid from a subterranean supply.
This subclass is indented under subclass 124. Spring device including (a) passage means communicating
between opposite sides of the piston for movements of the liquid
or gas therebetween or (b) an accumulator or reservoir for the fluid
communicating with the piston-provided enclosure.
(1)
Note. Unless separated from the piston chamber by a passage
of significant length or substantial construction, a cubic capacity
will be recognized only as an extension of a piston chamber and
not a separate reservoir or accumulator for this subclass; and see
(1) Note in subclass 127.
This subclass is indented under subclass 126. Spring device including means through the piston member
for movement of liquid or gas to either side of said piston.
(1)
Note. Mere clearance between the piston and the cylinder
interior wall structure is not considered passage means for this
subclass, even though particularly dimensioned for this purpose.
This subclass is indented under subclass 124. Spring device in which an impetus for movement of the piston
is provided by a separate, solid, resilient member.
This subclass is indented under subclass 124. Spring device including significant means for eliminating
the passage of fluid between the periphery of the piston and the
interior cylinder wall structure.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Spring device for minimizing the force of impact in the
shaping operation of apparatus using a high degree of impactive
force (e.g., sheet metal drawing apparatus).
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Spring device having one end attachable to a base portion
of a seat for a human and another end extending therefrom for attachment
to the seat portion over said base portion.
This subclass is indented under subclass 131. Spring device which is the sole means for retention of the
seat portion above the base portion; and for arcuate, to-and-fro
movement of the seat portion about a horizontal axis.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Spring device in which a portion of a spring element is
movable in rubbing contact with a surface of a solid body or through
a viscous body; said movement being responsive to the application
of a force and impeded by said rubbing contact.
(1)
Note. Movement, for this subclass, may be (and usually is)
that of a portion of a spring body as a consequence of the deformation
of the body as a whole. The surface for rubbing contact may be that of
another, concentric spring body.
This subclass is indented under subclass 134. Spring device in which said portion is the surface portion
of a spirally wound body or one of the annuli of a set of plural,
concentric (usually longitudinally spaced) annuli.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Spring devices for inhibiting or minimizing the undesirable
effect of the force of an unintended blow or undesirable oscillation.
Motor Vehicles,
subclass 300 for a motor vehicle having a specific motor-to-body-frame
relationship and wherein is provided yieldable means for minimizing
the rocking of the motor about principal supports.
Supports,
subclasses 560+ for a resilient means which forms part of a support
structure. See the note to this class (267) under the definition
of subclass 560 for the line between Class 248 and Class 267.
This subclass is indented under subclass 136. Spring device in which the body constitutes means in moving
contact with work to modify the work and in which the spring device
minimizes undesirable oscillation incident to said movable contact
and work modification.
This subclass is indented under subclass 136. Spring device in which the body is one of a pair of vehicle
bodies in tow relation with one another and the spring device is
interposable between the vehicle bodies to minimize the transfer
of forces therebetween resulting from changes in velocity.
This subclass is indented under subclass 136. Spring device in which the body is one of a pair of bodies
(e.g., vehicle and dock bodies) likely to undergo collisive impact
and the spring device is positionable to minimize the effect of
said impact.
This subclass is indented under subclass 139. Spring device in which the spring element comprises a body
of elastomeric material; i.e., a product of latex or a synthetic
substitute or equivalent of latex.
This subclass is indented under subclass 136. Structure wherein a means or feature, distinct from a resilient
means, absorbs mechanical energy from a vibrating component, converts such
absorbed energy to another form of energy, such as heat and thereby
damps the absorbed energy.
(1)
Note. A mere spring, acting alone or in concert with others,
is not considered an energy absorbing member for this subclass as
the energy transferred is not changed in form or dissipated but returned
almost in full to the vibrating member.
(2)
Note. Spring devices of the supporting type useful to cushion
relative movement between vehicle parts and which do not involve
substantial modification of the vehicle structure are not found herein
and in the indented subclasses, but are found in other subclasses
within this class.
(3)
Note. Devices in this and the indented subclasses include
vehicle engine mounts many of which include hydraulic damping.
This subclass is indented under subclass 140.11. Structure wherein the resilient means is an elastomeric
or like spring radially disposed between two approximately concentric rigid
tubular members with the energy from the vibrating component being
applied not parallel to the central axis of the tubular members
and the resilient means.
(1)
Note. Many of the devices included herein and the indented
subclass have an inner tube which extends approximately all the
way through the outer tube.
This subclass is indented under subclass 140.11. Subject matter wherein the resilient means is an elastomeric
or like spring disposed between the vibrating component and a supporting
component with the energy from the vibrating component being applied
approximately parallel to the central axis of the resilient means.
(1)
Note. Many of the devices found herein and in the indented
subclass have the spring located between two members spaced along
the central axis of the spring either located as two end members
or as an end member and an intermediate member.
(2)
Note. Many of the devices found herein and in the indented
subclass have a conically shaped or tapered spring and have one
of the end or intermediate members of cup-shape receiving the spring
(e.g., cup/bush type).
This subclass is indented under subclass 140.13. Structure wherein the means or feature for absorbing mechanical
energy has its damping effect varied (increased or decreased) by application
of electrical energy.
(1)
Note. Included herein are devices which increase or decrease
the vibration damping effect by using fluids which undergo a change
in viscosity upon application of electrical energy (i.e., electroviscous
fluids) and devices wherein a flow passage between fluid containing
chambers is varied in effective cross-section by means responsive
to application of electrical or magnetic energy.
This subclass is indented under subclass 140.11. Structure wherein the means or feature for absorbing mechanical
energy has its damping effect (increased or decreased) by application
of electrical energy.
(1)
Note. Included herein are devices which increase or decrease
the vibration damping effect by using fluids which undergo a change
in viscosity upon application of electrical energy (i.e., electroviscous
fluids) and devices wherein a flow passage between fluid containing
chambers is varied in effective cross-section by means responsive
to application of electrical or magnetic energy.
This subclass is indented under subclass 136. Structure comprising means for varying the loading, e.g.,
tension, compression, shear, etc., of the resilient element so as
to vary its characteristics.
This subclass is indented under subclass 136. Structure wherein a single spring comprises a plurality
of resilient elements, at least one of which is different from another.
This subclass is indented under subclass 136. Structure wherein the resilient means provides for vibration
along at least two distinct translational and/or rotational
axes and wherein the resistance of said resilient means to such
vibration along one axis is different from that along at least one
other axis.
This subclass is indented under subclass 141. Structure comprising a plurality of resilient elements which
elements are separated by at least one nonresilient spacer element.
This subclass is indented under subclass 141. Structure wherein the resilient element is disposed between
two coaxial rigid annular members and at least a part of the resilient
element is restrained from radial movement by said members.
This subclass is indented under subclass 141.2. Structure comprising a radial surface, such as a taper or
shoulder, on one of the members which contacts the resilient element.
This subclass is indented under subclass 141.3. Structure wherein one of the members comprises an annular
flange or collar at least one edge of which is surrounded by the
resilient element.
This subclass is indented under subclass 141.3. Structure comprising a three-dimensional free space bounded
on at least one side by a resilient element whereby vibration of
the members will cause the resilient element to distort and vary
the shape and/or volume of the free space.
This subclass is indented under subclass 141.3. Structure wherein the surface which contacts the resilient
element is (a) of arcuate configuration, or (b) inclined with respect
to the axis of the annular members.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Spring device for positioning to bear the weight of a person,
in a position directly to receive the force of said weight; i.e.,
separated therefrom by no more than a flexible covering.
(1)
Note. This subclass includes spring devices for seat cushions,
back rests, resting mats, bed springs, etc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 142. Spring device in which the spring element is an elastomeric
body; i.e., of latex or a synthetic substitute or equivalent.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Spring device in which the spring element comprises an open
work fabric of interwoven and densitized, and thereby crinkled, wire.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Spring device in which the spring element is a filamentary,
nonmetallic element; or a body made of such elements (e.g., rope,
mat).
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Spring device connectible to a pivotable body (e.g., aircraft
caster wheel) so as to be unstressed when said body is in a normal
position and to be put under stress by pivotal movement of said
body from said position, whereby said spring device tends to return
said body to said normal position.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Spring device comprising a plurality of spring elements
of construction diverse from one another.
(1)
Note. Diversity of construction is recognized by separate,
coordinate classification in this class; e.g., coil, torsion, rubber.
This subclass is indented under subclass 151. Spring device in which one of the spring elements is an
elastomeric body of latex, or a synthetic substitute or equivalent.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Spring device comprising an elastomeric body; i.e., a latex
product of a synthetic substitute or equivalent.
Bearings,
subclasses 220+ and 297 for a nonmetallic mounting means, or a
sleeve or liner for a plain rotary bearing appropriate subclasses
for flexible laminated bearings.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Spring device in which the spring element is a unitary member
having a portion subject to a deforming force while another portion is
retained against movement or is subject to a force which is substantially
lesser than or opposite in direction to the first force; which element
either (a) includes an unconvoluted portion to which the force is
applied as an axial twist, or (b) constitutes a spirally wound body the
number of turns of which tend to be changed by the application of
the first-mentioned force.
This subclass is indented under subclass 155. Spring device which is subject to a compressive or expansive
force; as well as said first-mentioned force.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Spring device in which the spring element is substantially
planar through a cross-section thereof whereat bending occurs under
a load.
This subclass is indented under subclass 158. Spring device in which the spring element is a unitary member,
including a portion under stress resisting movement toward one side
of a plane passing through the bending axis, which stress is reversible
when said element or portion crosses said plane whereby to continue urging
said element or portion away
This subclass is indented under subclass 158. Spring device in which the spring element, or a group thereof,
constitutes the sole support for a movable load member and the sole
connection between said load member and another member fixed to
its environment; whereby the direction of (generally, arcuate) movement
of said load member is determined by the bending of said element,
or group.
for (1) a spring device including a resilient ring
pack and spaced members connected to each of the ends thereof; which
members are merely end connection elements of the spring device,
rather than load members and (2) the combination of load means,
a spring ring pack and rigid rod means extending through the common
central aperture of the pack, whereby the control of movement of
the load by the flexure of the spring device ring elements is negated
or, at least, significantly inhibited or modified.
This subclass is indented under subclass 158. Spring device in which the spring element is annular in
general configuration; or is generally circular and includes within
the confines of its circle an annularly arranged group of separate,
spaced, finger-like formations.
for a spring device element comprising a circular
body and a plurality of extensions extending irregularly outwardly
(rather than generally annularly and within the confines) thereof, so
that neither the device nor the spider-like formation is generally
annular.
This subclass is indented under subclass 161. Spring device in which there are a plurality of superposed
and adjacent, annular spring elements or element portions for bending
about a common flexural arc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 158. Spring device in which the spring element is provided with
an elongated separation (e.g., slot) to define either spaced portions
extending from an end thereof or finger-like formation within the
confines of said element.
This subclass is indented under subclass 158. Spring device in which either (a) the spring element is
a unitary member bent back upon itself intermediate the ends thereof
to present superposed or confronting portions or (b) a group (e.g.,
pair) of separate, overlapping spring elements is provided; whereby
said confronting portions or overlapping elements present a common
bending plane or flexural arc.
This subclass is indented under subclass 164. Spring device comprising either (a) the structure of part
(b) of the definition of subclass 164 or (b) the unitary spring
element bent back upon itself at least twice to provide at least three
portions sharing the common bending plane or flexural arc.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Spring device in which the spring element is in the form
of a helix and is adapted to be extended or compressed in the direction
of the helix axis.
This subclass is indented under subclass 166. Spring device including a pair of said elements, one of
which surrounds the other directly (i.e., with no structural element
intervening therebetween).
This subclass is indented under subclass 166. Spring device provided with means extending a substantial
distance within the confines of the coils for limiting transaxial
flexure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 166. Spring device including, in the use condition thereof, a
member which is (a) separate from the spring element, (b) positioned
at one end thereof, and (c) movable therewith during said extension
or compression.
This subclass is indented under subclass 170. Spring device, further including a second end thrust member
at the other end of the spring element; and in which the spring
element is adapted either (a) to maintain said end thrust members
a predetermined distance apart or (b) selectively to maintain one
of the members, or the contact point between said one member and the
end of the element, at each of a pair or predetermined positions
on opposite sides of the helix axis.
This subclass is indented under subclass 170. Spring device and means having a surface movable along a
path intersecting a position of the end thrust member for thrust
reaction momentary engagement therewith.
This subclass is indented under subclass 170. Spring device in which the end thrust member constitutes,
or is associated with, means movable about a fulcrum for a thrust
reaction with said spring element.
This subclass is indented under subclass 170. Spring device wherein said end thrust member, has a movement
intended to effect a condition change (e.g., actuate a valve, make
or break a circuit), work stroke (e.g., piston movement), or work
modification (i.e., tool function).
This subclass is indented under subclass 174. Spring device, including means for selectively varying the
spring force of the spring element whereby the character of movement
of the member may correspondingly be selectively varied.
This subclass is indented under subclass 174. Spring device in which the spring element is adapted to
resist said movement and to return said member to a starting position.
This subclass is indented under subclass 170. Spring device including means for selectively varying the
spring force of the spring element whereby the character of the
thrust reaction may be correspondingly varied.
This subclass is indented under subclass 170. Spring device either (a) for retaining an object against
the forces of gravity, or (b) for supplementing the retention against
gravity of a cantilever-supported object.
This subclass is indented under subclass 170. Spring device in which both the spring element and the end
thrust member are particularly preshaped for the purpose of attachment
with one another.
This subclass is indented under subclass 166. Spring device in which the spring element is of one-piece
construction and (a) includes plural, intervoluted coils; or (b)
is out-of-round in cross-section; or (c) in the unstressed condition thereof,
includes portions which vary, one from another in (1) helix angle,
or (2) distance from a common, central, longitudinal axis, or (3) cross-section.
This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Spring device combined with equalizing means which tends
to cause uniform displacement of all points along a substantially
horizontal line contained in the vehicle chassis or body.
(1)
Note. The equalizing means typically factions to cause uniform
displacement along a lateral axis, or along a longitudinal axis
of the vehicle body antiroll.
Land Vehicles,
subclasses 5.5+ for a general utility land vehicle including an
active suspension responsive to a force encountered while the vehicle
is in surface traversing motion which may or may not involve a stabilizer
or torsion bar, especially subclass 5.511 involving sway or torsion
bar regulation; or subclass 124.107 for a general utility wheeled
land vehicle running gear suspension arrangement preventing lateral
or sideways tilt of the vehicle body, chassis, or frame through
a centrifugal force transmission linkage.
This subclass is indented under subclass 183. Spring device wherein the equalizing means acts in two planes,
thereby tending to cause uniform displacement of the chassis along
both the lateral and longitudinal axis of the vehicle.
This subclass is indented under subclass 184. Spring device wherein all forces applied to the chassis
by the equalizing means cause uniform displacement about a single
point.
This subclass is indented under subclass 183. Spring device wherein the equalizing means employs a pressure
fluid to case uniform displacement of the chassis of body.
This subclass is indented under subclass 186. Spring device wherein the equalizing means further comprises
either (a) an elongated member which exhibits resilient characteristics when
subjected to axial twist while transmitting equalizing stresses
from one point to another on the vehicle, or (b) a discrete apparatus
for dynamically increasing the pressure or velocity of the pressure
fluid.
This subclass is indented under subclass 183. Spring device wherein the equalizing means includes an elongated
member formed of metal or a similar material, and which exhibits
resilient characteristics when subject to an axial twist while transmitting
equalizing stress for one point to another on the vehicle.
This subclass is indented under subclass 188. Spring device wherein the equalizing means further comprises
a member formed for rubber or a material which exhibits similar
characteristics.
This subclass is indented under subclass 188. Spring device including a coil-spring* which is employed
either to cushion relative movement between parts of the vehicle,
or to supplement the elongated resilient member in transmitting equalizing
stresses from one point to another on the vehicle.
This subclass is indented under subclass 188. Spring device including nonreacting means (e.g., a dashpot)
for opposing and slowing distortion or recovery or a spring element.
(1)
Note. The spring element may serve to cushion relative movement
of vehicle parts, or it may serve as an equalizer to ensure parallel
depression of the parts.
Brakes,
subclass 129 for a frictional shock absorber with no restoring means
(spring), and subclasses 266+ for a fluid resistance dashpot
or shock absorber, per se.
This subclass is indented under subclass 192. Spring device wherein portions of the leaf-spring* which
are deflected relatively to each other are each connected to the
vehicle by an intermediate element which turns about an attached
pin or equivalent structure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 183. Spring device wherein the equalizing means includes two
discrete coil-springs* adapted to be extended and compressed
in the direction of their central axes.
This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Spring device including a nonfluid (mechanical) spring element
for cushioning relative movement between the vehicle parts combined with
nonreacting means for opposing and slowing the distortion or recovery
of the spring element.
(1)
Note. This subclass and its indents include shock absorber
which are combined with a nonfluid spring element for returning
the vehicle parts connected by the shock absorbers to a neutral
position after they have been displaced therefrom.
Brakes,
subclasses 266+ for an internal resistance motion retarder, wherein
energy absorbed during displacement of the parts out of normal position
is not returned to restore the parts to normal position.
This subclass is indented under subclass 195. Spring device wherein the retarder comprises two friction
surfaces which are caused to rub against each other to slow the
distortion or recovery of the spring element.
Brakes,
subclasses 129+ for a vehicle friction shock absorber, per se,
having a spring biased friction surface, but in which there is no
distortion of the spring as the parts move relative to each other.
Railway Draft Appliances,
subclasses 22+ for a cushioned railway draft appliance employing
a spring and friction surfaces, and subclasses 220+ for
a car end bumper or buffer, per se.
This subclass is indented under subclass 196. Spring device including an elongated flaccid element connected
to or forming part of the retarder, and having one end connected
to one of the sprung vehicle parts, whereby relative motion of the
vehicle parts away from each other is accommodated through the flaccid
element, and the spring element subsequently draws the vehicle parts
toward one another through the flaccid element.
This subclass is indented under subclass 197. Spring device wherein one of the two surfaces which are
caused to rub against each other is on the elongated flaccid element.
(1)
Note. The surfaces must be that of a flaccid element and
not of a separate brake shoe attached to the flaccid element.
This subclass is indented under subclass 197. Spring device wherein the spring element comprises a coil
of at least one complete turn about an axis and wherein all turns
lie in a single plane.
This subclass is indented under subclass 196. Spring device including a friction reducing fluid, or means
to store or facilitate the application of the friction reducing
fluid.
This subclass is indented under subclass 196. Spring device an element formed of rubber or a material
exhibiting similar characteristics and which serves either (a) as
the spring element, (b) a friction surface, or (c) as a means for
biasing the friction surfaces against each other.
This subclass is indented under subclass 202. Spring device including a second discrete helical coil-spring* element
which acts between the parts of the vehicle.
This subclass is indented under subclass 196. Spring device wherein one of the surfaces which rub against
each other is located on a helical coil-spring*.
This subclass is indented under subclass 196. Spring device including two members or portions having contacting
relatively moving surfaces, wherein at least one of the surfaces
is sloped or curved to force the friction surfaces against each
other.
(1)
Note. The cam or wedge surface may also serve as the "friction
surfaces".
This subclass is indented under subclass 205. Spring device having a central axis along which parts or
the device connected to the sprung vehicle portions are caused to
move, wherein a plurality or discrete expandable annular members,
each carrying a friction surface on its peripheral face, are located
at different points along the axis.
This subclass is indented under subclass 205. Spring device wherein one of the rubbing surfaces is caused
to revolve or swing in contact with the other surface.
This subclass is indented under subclass 205. Spring device including a helical coil-spring* which
serves either as the spring element for cushioning the relatively
moving parts of the vehicle or for biasing the friction, wedge or cam
surfaces toward or away from one another.
This subclass is indented under subclass 209. Spring device wherein the helical coil-spring* serves
to resiliently urge the friction surfaces toward or away from one
another, and the central axis of the spring is oriented at an angle
to the vertical when the device is mounted on the vehicle.
This subclass is indented under subclass 209. Spring device including a second helical coil-spring*,
wherein a substantial part of one of the helical coil-spring*,
wherein the axes of the two springs are spaced from each other.
This subclass is indented under subclass 209. Spring device including a second helical coil-spring*,
wherein a substantial part of one of the helical springs occupies
the area within the other helical spring.
This subclass is indented under subclass 212. Spring device wherein a substantial portion of each helical
spring lies within a hollow member on which is located one of the
frictions surfaces.
This subclass is indented under subclass 196. Spring device including a second element which exhibits
resilient characteristics and which tends to force the friction
surface into or out of contact with each other.
(1)
Note. Devices having a spring which serves to bias the vehicle
parts and the friction elements are not classified here on that
basis.
(2)
Note. The friction surface may be on the spring itself, but
see this class, subclass 204 for those devices which employ a friction
surface formed on a helical spring.
This subclass is indented under subclass 214. Spring device wherein one of the rubbing surfaces is caused
to revolve or swing while in contact with the other surface.
This subclass is indented under subclass 196. Spring device wherein the spring element which serves to
cushion relative movement between the parts of the vehicle comprises
a coil-spring* which also tend to force the rubbing surfaces
toward or away from each other.
This subclass is indented under subclass 195. Spring device wherein the viscosity of a liquid or gas is
employed for opposing and slowing the distortion or recovery of
the spring element.
Miscellaneous Hardware (e.g., Bushing, Carpet
Fastener, Caster, Door Closer, Panel Hanger, Attachable or Adjunct
Handle, Hinge, Window Sash Balance, etc.),
subclasses 51+ and 66+ for a fluid check and spring system
for use with a closure (e.g., door).
Land Vehicles,
subclasses 124.1+ for a general utility wheeled land vehicle running
gear suspension arrangement, especially subclasses 124.145+ or
124.154+ wherein a wheel is separately supported upon an
individual stub axle including a vertically extending strut which
may or may not include a fluid damper or retarder.
This subclass is indented under subclass 217. Spring device including either (a) Discrete means in addition
to the fluid retarder for raising, transferring or compressing the
liquid or gas, or (b) means by which the spring force exerted on
the vehicle parts at a particular relative position of the parts
may be varied.
This subclass is indented under subclass 217. Spring device wherein the spring element is formed of rubber
or a material which exhibits similar characteristics.
This subclass is indented under subclass 219. Spring device wherein the rubber or rubber-like spring element
is attached at or immediately adjacent to a terminal portion of
the retarder.
(1)
Note. The rubber or rubber-like bushing is normally located
at the point or attachment to the vehicle.
This subclass is indented under subclass 221. Spring device including four links pivoted together to form
a four-sided polygon, wherein the relatively moving parts of the
vehicle are connected to or serve as separate links, whereby relative
movement between the vehicle parts cause the shape of the polygon
to change.
(1)
Note. Typically, the links comprise the upper and lower control
arms, the wheel axle support, and the vehicle chassis, and the arrangement
is applied to separate wheels as an "independent suspension" system.
This subclass is indented under subclass 221. Spring device wherein the retarder includes either (a) a
pivoted lever which is caused to pivot upon relative motion between
the vehicle parts to effect operation of the retarder, or (b) a rotatably
mounted member having a surface thereon which displaces or moves
through the retarding fluid to effect the opposing and retarding
action.
This subclass is indented under subclass 223. Spring device including a second discrete nonfluid spring
element which cushions relative movement between the vehicle parts.
This subclass is indented under subclass 221. Spring device including a second discrete nonfluid spring
element which cushions relative movement between the vehicle parts.
This subclass is indented under subclass 221. Spring device including an enclosure for containing the
liquid or gas, wherein a substantial portion of the helical coil-spring* element
is located within the enclosure, and the central longitudinal axis
of the enclosure coincides with the central axis of the spring helix.
This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Spring device including a discrete swingably mounted, force
multiplying link through which stress is applied to a spring element
to compress, expand or laterally deflect a portion of the spring
element.
(1)
Note. Devices in which the link forms an essential part
of the spring element are excluded.
Land Vehicles,
subclasses 5.5+ for a general utility land vehicle including an
active suspension responsive to a force encountered while the vehicle
is in surface traversing motion which may or may not involve a lever
acting upon a spring device or element; subclasses 6.15+ for
a general utility land vehicle including means, interposed between
a vehicle body, chassis, or frame and running gear thereof, for altering
height or levelness of the vehicle body, chassis, or frame which may
or may not involve a lever acting upon a spring device or element;
subclass 79 for a general utility wheeled land vehicle provided
with springs between the wheel or wheels and the load-support, noting
the search notes provided therein; subclasses 124.1+ for
a general utility wheeled land vehicle running gear suspension arrangement;
or subclasses 275+ or 283+ for a general utility
occupant propelled-type wheeled land vehicle including yielding
framework or running gear which may or may not involve a spring
device or element (it is noted that in accordance with the (2) Note
of Class 280, subclass 200, motorcycle frames and running gear, without
features causing classification in Class 180, Motor Vehicles, are included
in these subclasses). Patents classified in this class (Class 267)
as originals may include vehicle parts directly related to vehicle
suspension (e.g., fluid damper, upper or lower control arm) and
vehicle parts which are nominally recited as either a reference
or mounting structure for the spring.
This subclass is indented under subclass 228. Spring device including a spring element in the form of
a leaf-spring* for cushioning relative movement of the
vehicle parts.
This subclass is indented under subclass 229. Spring device including four rigid links pivoted together
to form a four-sided polygon, wherein the relatively moving parts
of the vehicle are connected to different links, and one link servers
as the "lever" connected to the spring element,
whereby relative movement between the vehicle parts causes the shape
of the polygon to change.
(1)
Note. Typically, the links comprise the upper and lower control
arms, the wheel axial support, and the vehicle chassis, and the
arrangement is applied to separate wheels as an "independent
suspension".
This subclass is indented under subclass 229. Spring device further including a second spring element
in the form of a coil-spring* for cushioning relative movement
of the vehicle parts.
(1)
Note. The lever may act upon either the leaf-spring or the
coil-spring, or both.
This subclass is indented under subclass 231. Spring device including a generally round rotatable element
which is caused to roll along the surface of the leaf spring or
an adjacent member as the vehicle parts move relatively and the
leaf spring is deflected.
This subclass is indented under subclass 231. Spring device including a member or portion which limits
relative movement of the vehicle parts by striking another member
or portion.
This subclass is indented under subclass 231. Spring device including means by which the force exerted
by an spring element on the vehicle parts at a particular relative
position of the parts may be selectively varied.
This subclass is indented under subclass 234. Spring device wherein the means to selectively vary the
spring force includes and elongated helically ribbed element rotatable
about its longitudinal axis, which coincides with the central axis
of the coil-spring* element.
This subclass is indented under subclass 231. Spring device including a second leaf-spring* located
above the first leaf-spring* with respect to the vehicle,
wherein two discrete coil-springs* are located between
the two leaf-springs.
(1)
Note. Elliptical and semielliptical leaf-spring* arrangements
are considered to be "vertically spaced".
This subclass is indented under subclass 231. Spring device including a second coil-spring* for
cushioning relative movement of the vehicle parts, wherein the central
axes of the two coils coincide.
This subclass is indented under subclass 237. Spring device wherein the coil-springs* are coaxial
and a substantial portion of one spring is located within the other
spring.
This subclass is indented under subclass 321. Spring device wherein the discrete link connects the end
of the leaf- spring* to the vehicle, or to another spring
element which is in turn connected to the vehicle.
(1)
Note. A mere shackle connecting a leaf-spring* with
the vehicle or another leaf-spring is not considered to be a "lever" for
purposes of classification in this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 239. Spring device wherein one end of the coil-spring* engages
the discrete link or structure rigidly connected thereto, and the
other end engages one of the sprung vehicle parts or structure rigidly
connected thereto.
(1)
Note. A coil-spring* which is connected to the leaf-spring* at
or immediately adjacent to the leaf spring"s point of attachment
to a vehicle part is considered to "engage one of the sprung
vehicle parts".
This subclass is indented under subclass 229. Spring device including, in addition to the leaf-spring*,
and apparatus which utilizes a fluid medium to provide a resilient
cushion between the relatively moveable vehicle parts.
This subclass is indented under subclass 229. Spring device including means by which the spring force
exerted ton the vehicle parts at a particular relative position
of the parts may be selectively varied.
This subclass is indented under subclass 229. Spring device including structure which permits rolling
or sliding contact between the leaf-spring* element, or
adjacent vehicle structure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 229. Spring device including a second discrete leaf-spring* spaced
above the first leaf-spring* with respect to the vehicle.
(1)
Note. One spring must be located above or below the other
spring when the device is unstressed or in equilibrium.
This subclass is indented under subclass 229. Spring device wherein the discrete link is pivotally connected
to the spring element, and a second discrete link is pivotally connected
to the first link and additionally to one of the sprung vehicle
parts.
This subclass is indented under subclass 229. Spring device wherein the longitudinal axis of the leaf-spring* is
oriented laterally with respect to the vehicle chassis.
This subclass is indented under subclass 229. Spring device wherein either (a) the discrete link acts
through a point along the length of the leaf-spring which is closer
to its longitudinal center that an end thereof, or (b) the discrete link
or a separate element is formed of an elastically deformable material
to bias the link against the leaf-spring*
This subclass is indented under subclass 248. Device including a housing which surrounds the spring element.
(1)
Note. The "housing" may comprise one or
more members which collectively enclose the spring, and may serve
some additional purpose in addition to merely enclosing the spring.
This subclass is indented under subclass 249. Spring device wherein a second coil-spring* is located
within the housing, and the longitudinal axes of the coils coincide.
This subclass is indented under subclass 248. Spring device including a second coil-spring* element
for cushioning relative movement of the vehicle parts, wherein each
of the coil-spring elements is deflected axially upon relative movement
of the vehicle parts.
This subclass is indented under subclass 251. Spring device wherein the discrete link causes simultaneous
deflection of both coil-spring* elements in unequal amounts
for a giver displacement of said link.
This subclass is indented under subclass 248. Spring device including four rigid links pivoted together
to form a four-sided polygon, wherein the relatively moving parts
of the vehicle are connected to different links and one link serves as
the "lever" connected to the spring element, whereby
relative movement between the vehicle parts causes the shape of
the polygon to change.
(1)
Note. Typically, the links comprise the upper and lower control
arms, the wheel axle support, and the vehicle chassis, and the arrangement
is applied between a vehicle wheel and chassis as an "independent
suspension".
This subclass is indented under subclass 248. Spring device including means by which the spring force
exerted on the vehicle parts at a particular relative position of
the parts may be varied.
This subclass is indented under subclass 228. Spring device which utilizes a compressible fluid to resiliently
cushion the vehicle parts, wherein the discrete link is employed
to transmit relative motion of the vehicle parts to a surface bearing
against the fluid.
Land Vehicles,
subclasses 5.5+ for a general utility land vehicle including an
active suspension responsive to a force encountered while the vehicle
is in surface traversing motion which may or may not involve a fluid
spring device or element; subclasses 6.15+ for a general
utility land vehicle including means, interposed between a vehicle
body, chassis, or frame and running gear thereof, for altering height
or levelness of the vehicle body, chassis, or frame which may or may
not involve a fluid spring device or element; subclass 79 for a
general utility wheeled land vehicle provided with springs between
the wheel or wheels and the load-support, noting the search notes
provided therein; subclasses 124.1+ for a general utility wheeled
land vehicle running gear suspension arrangement which may or may
not involve a fluid spring device or element, especially subclasses 124.157+ which
are directed to a residual fluid suspension (in accordance with
industry and mechanical engineering convention, a fluid shock absorber,
per se, is not deemed a fluid suspension device for subclasses 124.157+ since
it does not normally support any weight but merely retards the extent
of motion provided by a spring device attempting to distort or return
to its undeflected condition); or subclasses 275+ or 283+ for
a general utility occupant propelled-type wheeled land vehicle including
yielding framework or running gear which may or may not involve
a fluid spring device or element (it is noted that in accordance
with the (2) Note of Class 280, subclass 200, motorcycle frames and
running gear, without features causing classification in Class 180, Motor
Vehicles, are included in these subclasses). Patents classified
in this class (Class 267) as originals may include vehicle parts
directly related to vehicle suspension (e.g., fluid damper, upper
or lower control arm) and vehicle parts which are nominally recited
as either a reference or mounting structure for the spring.
This subclass is indented under subclass 228. Spring device wherein the spring element is formed of rubber
or a material which exhibits similar characteristics.
This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Spring device having individual diverse spring elements
each of which serves to cushion relative movement between parts
of the vehicle.
(1)
Note. The original basis of classification in this and indented
subclasses was by total disclosure rather than by claimed disclosure;
i.e., if a claimed spring element was specifically intended to be used
in combination with a leaf-spring, the leaf-spring is considered
to be part of the device for classification purposes, even though
not actually claimed.
(2)
Note. An elastomeric or rubber bushing employed to mount
a spring element in most cases is not considered to be an "individual" spring
element itself, particularly where its cushioning effect is negligible
when compared with the spring element itself. However, where the
disclosure clearly indicates or implies a cushioning effect upon
the vehicle parts, an elastomeric or rubber element has been considered
to be a separate spring element proper for classification in these subclasses.
Analogously, a torsion tube assembly comprising a steel torsion
rod with a surrounding elastomeric or rubber sleeve to cushion the
vehicle parts is not considered to be diverse spring elements for
classification in these subclasses, but rather has been deemed an
individual torsion spring proper for this class (267), subclasses
273+, provided later in the class schedule.
Land Vehicles,
subclasses 124.1+ for a general utility wheeled land vehicle running
gear suspension arrangement which may or may not involve plural spring
devices or elements, especially subclasses 124.162+ which
are directed to a residual fluid suspension combined with a mechanical
spring device or element or subclass 124.165 which is directed to
a combination of plural, diverse mechanical spring devices or elements;
or subclasses 275+ or 283+ for a general utility occupant
propelled-type wheeled land vehicle including yielding framework or
running gear which may or may not involve plural spring devices
or elements (it is noted that in accordance with the (2) Note of
Class 280, subclass 200, motorcycle frames and running gear, without
features causing classification in Class 180, Motor Vehicles, are
included in these subclasses).
This subclass is indented under subclass 36.1. Spring device wherein significance is attributed to the
particular structure used to attach and end of the leaf spring to
part of the vehicle.
Joint and Connections, appropriate subclasses for a connection between the
end of a spring and another member and including only as much of
the spring as is necessary to effect the connection.
This subclass is indented under subclass 260. Spring device wherein the spring element comprises two distinct
bowed leaf-springs* joined together at each end to form
an ellipse.
This subclass is indented under subclass 260. Spring device wherein the connecting structure constrains
the end of the spring element to relative transnational motion with
respect to the connecting structure or the vehicle part to which
it is connected.
Miscellaneous Hardware (e.g., Bushing, Carpet
Fastener, Caster, Door Closer, Panel Hanger, Attachable or Adjunct
Handle, Hinge, Window Sash Balance, etc.),
subclasses 362+ for a hinge which allows relative translation of
the hinged member.
This subclass is indented under subclass 260. Spring device wherein the connection structure swingably
connects the leaf-spring to the vehicle, and a resilient element
in addition to the connecting structures is provided and acts between
the end of the leaf-spring and the connecting structure of vehicle
part.
This subclass is indented under subclass 260. Spring device wherein the connecting structure includes
a first apertured element in which pivots a second element, wherein
the apertured element and the exterior of the second element are
provided with cooperating threads or otherwise grooved or ridged
surfaces to restrict relative sliding movement between the two elements.
This subclass is indented under subclass 260. Spring device where in the connecting structure includes
either (a) means to selectively fix the leaf-spring* in
any one of a plurality of relative position with respect to the
part of the vehicle to which it is connected, or (b) a first rotary
member having teeth which mesh with teeth formed on a second relatively
movable member, whereby relative motion between the leaf-spring* and
vehicle part causes relative movement between the toothed members.
Spring device under subclass wherein the connecting structure
permits relative pivotal movement between the leaf-spring* and
the vehicle part to which it is connected, wherein the pivotal movement
occurs about two orthogonal axes.
Miscellaneous Hardware (e.g., Bushing, Carpet
Fastener, Caster, Door Closer, Panel Hanger, Attachable or Adjunct
Handle, Hinge, Window Sash Balance, etc.),
subclasses 366+ for a hinge which permits movement of hinged members
about plural axes.
This subclass is indented under subclass 260. Spring device wherein the connecting structure includes
a plurality of discrete elements having a circular cross section
and located between relatively moving surfaces to eliminate friction between
the surfaces.
This subclass is indented under subclass 260. Spring device including means at the end connection to store
or facilitate the application of a friction reducing fluid.
for a leaf-spring combined with a rubber spring
which is employed to cushion the parts of the vehicle. The patents
classified in this subclass generally disclose a bushing whose cushioning
effect on the vehicle parts is negligible compared with that of
the leaf-spring (i.e., the bushing is intended to impart "give" to
leaf spring end about an axis).
This subclass is indented under subclass 269. Spring device wherein the connecting structure allows pivotal
movement and includes either a hollow conical or tubular elastomeric
element, the latter having contiguous relatively rigid tubular elements
along its inside and outside surfaces.
This subclass is indented under subclass 260. Spring device wherein the connecting structure includes
a rigid link having one end swingably connected to the end of the
leaf-spring, and the other end swingably connected to the part of vehicle.
This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Spring device wherein the spring element is subjected to
a twisting force about its central axis when the vehicle parts are
relatively displaced, and undergoing a resultant elastic deformation
about said axis.
Land Vehicles,
subclasses 5.5+ for a general utility land vehicle including an
active suspension responsive to a force encountered while the vehicle
is in surface traversing motion which may or may not involve a torsion spring
device or element; subclasses 6.15+ for a general utility
land vehicle including means, interposed between a vehicle body,
chassis, or frame and running gear thereof, for altering height
or levelness of the vehicle body, chassis, or frame which may or may
not involve a torsion spring device or element; subclass 79 for
a general utility wheeled land vehicle provided with springs between
the wheel or wheels and the load-support, noting the search notes
provided therein; or subclasses 124.1+ for a general utility
wheeled land vehicle running gear suspension arrangement which may
or may not involve a torsion spring device or element, especially
subclass 124.107 which is directed to an antiroll or antisway suspension
including a sway or torsion bar, subclasses 124.116, 124.13, 124.137,
124.149, or 124.152 for a particular suspension arrangement which
includes a torsion rod stabilizer, or subclasses 124.166+ for
a torsion spring suspension arrangement, per se.
This subclass is indented under subclass 273. Spring device including four rigid links pivoted together
to form a four-sided polygon, wherein the relatively moving parts
of the vehicle are connected to or serve as separate links, whereby
relative movement between the vehicle parts causes the shape of
the polygon to change.
(1)
Note. Typically, the links comprise the upper and lower control
arms, the wheel axle support, and the vehicle chassis, and the arrangement
is applied to separate wheels as an "independent suspension" system.
This subclass is indented under subclass 273. Spring device wherein the spring element is in the form
of a spiral lying in the surface of a cylinder, and is subjected
to a twisting force about the axis of the cylinder to cushion the relatively
moving vehicle parts.
This subclass is indented under subclass 273. Spring device including a member formed of rubber or a device
which exhibits similar characteristics, and which contributes at
most an insignificant cushioning effect upon the vehicle parts.
This subclass is indented under subclass 273. Spring device including means by which the spring force
exerted on the vehicle parts at a particular relative position of
the parts may be varied.
This subclass is indented under subclass 277. Spring device wherein the means for varying the spring loading
comprises two contacting elements, one having a helically ribbed
surface which engages cooperating structure on the other element,
whereby relative rotation between the two elements causes a corresponding
change in spring loading.
This subclass is indented under subclass 273. Spring device wherein the spring element is formed of rubber
or a material which exhibits similar characteristics.
Rotary Shafts, Gudgeons, Housings, and Flexible
Couplings for Rotary Shafts, appropriate subclasses for a nonmetallic torsion
spring coupling or housing for a rotary shaft.
This subclass is indented under subclass 279. Spring device including a second discrete torsion spring
element formed of rubber or a material which exhibits similar characteristics and
which also serves to cushion relative movement between the vehicle
parts, wherein the two spring elements are spaced apart along the
torsion axis.
This subclass is indented under subclass 279. Spring device including an inner and an outer ring, each
formed of metal and fastened to the spring element in such a manner
that the spring element occupies an annular space defined between
the two rings.
This subclass is indented under subclass 281. Spring device including a second discrete annular torsion
spring element which is formed of rubber or a material which exhibits
similar characteristics, wherein the central axes of the two spring
elements coincide, and one spring element is located within the
other.
This subclass is indented under subclass 273. Spring device wherein the spring element comprises a plurality
of contiguous, superposed plates or bars which are subjected to
a twisting force about their length.
This subclass is indented under subclass 273. Spring device including a second spring element which is
subjected to a twisting force about its central axis when the vehicle
parts are relatively displaced, and undergoes a resultant elastic
deformation about that axis.
(1)
Note. Patents claiming only one torsion spring and showing
an identical spring arrangement on another axle or vehicle portion
have not been included in this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Spring device wherein the spring element comprises a *coil-spring.
(1)
Note. Patents having claims to the spring element structure,
per se, (e.g., cross section, composition) have been classified
in subclasses 166+ even if a generic disclosure includes
vehicle use.
This subclass is indented under subclass 286. Spring device including a device attached between the coils
of the spring element to increase the spring constant of the spring
element.
(1)
Note. An additional coil-spring is not considered to be a "stiffener" as
defined above.
This subclass is indented under subclass 289. Spring device wherein a substantial part of one of the spring
element lies within the other spring element.
This subclass is indented under subclass 289. Spring device wherein each of two coil-spring elements have
a rigid bar or tube located inside and oriented along or parallel
to the central axis of the coil, and which slidingly engages cooperating
structure attached to the other end of the coil as the spring elements
are compressed.
This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Spring device wherein the spring element which cushions
relative movement between the vehicle parts is formed or rubber
or a material which exhibits similar characteristics.
Bearings,
subclasses 220+ for an nonmetallic resilient mounting for a plain rotary
bearing, and subclass 297 for a nonmetallic sleeve or liner for
a plain rotary bearing.
This subclass is indented under subclass 292. Spring device wherein the elastomeric spring element is
provided with a central opening through which an elongated bar or
cylinder extends, wherein the bar or cylinder is caused to slide
along cooperating structure during relative displacement of the
vehicle parts, thereby restricting movement of portions of the spring device
to the along the longitudinal axis of the bar or cylinder.
This subclass is indented under subclass 292. Spring device wherein the spring element includes a relatively
thin planar member formed of a substantially nonresilient material and
attached between two adjacent elastomeric portions.
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