Patent ID: 6067893
Filing Date: 2000-05-30
Classification: F16J

Abstract:
A diaphragm having a generally truncated conical body for use in diaphragm actuating piston assemblies, said diaphragm comprising:(a) at least one layer of an elastomeric material selected from a group consisting of natural rubber, synthetic rubber, fabric reinforced rubber and various mixtures thereof;(b) a first central opening, having a first predetermined diameter, disposed at a first edge of said diaphragm for mounting on a diaphragm actuating piston, said first central opening being formed by a bead-like portion having a second predetermined diameter;(c) a second central opening, having a third predetermined diameter, disposed at a second edge of said diaphragm for mounting on a body portion of said diaphragm actuating piston assembly, said second central opening being formed by a bead-like portion having a fourth predetermined diameter; and(d) a generally flexure annular portion connected at a first end to said bead-like portion at said first central opening and at a second end to said bead-like portion at said second central opening, said generally flexure annular portion incorporating a predetermined plurality of annular thick portions and annular thin portions of said elastomeric material, a first projection of said plurality of annular thick portions being formed on a first side of said elastomeric material and a second projection of said plurality of annular thick portions being formed on a second side of said elastomeric material, said second projection being generally radially opposed to said first projection, said annular thick portions alternating with said annular thin portions throughout a working length of said diaphragm so as to provide a uniform response across said working length of said diaphragm and improve flex fatigue life of said diaphragm while maintaining strength with said thick portions.