Tapered end composite spring

Abstract

Two support assemblies for respectively supporting the tapered end and the cylindrical end of an elongated tubular elastomeric spring between two opposed spring seats are disclosed. The support assembly for the tapered end is made up of an elongated retaining member which is positionable generally transverse to and entirely inside the tapered end. This retaining member includes two inclined portions which bear down upon the inside of the tapered end when pulled in an outward direction by a bolt thredably secured to a convetional spring seat. The support assembly for the cylindrical end is made up of a second retaining member which is positionable generally transverse to and entirely inside the cylindrical end. The second retaining member includes a plurality of expandable flange portions which engage the inside of the cylindrical portion as the retaining member is pulled in an outward direction by a second bolt threadably secured to the second spring seat. The spring is reinforced to resist bulging in response to the outwardly directed forces applied by the support assemblies.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.