An Elastomeric Energy Storage Device for Automotive Engine Restart

Abstract An elastomeric spring starter using rubber in shear has been designed. Design criteria have been established and used to develop potential compounds for use in the device. Natural rubber proved to be the elastomer of choice primarily because of its excellent fatigue resistance. To reconcile bonding requirements and requirements for low hysteresis, the individual rings were fabricated from two elastomer compounds. Limitations on the thermal stability of the adhesive system were identified which put constraints on the operating conditions for the starter. A prototype starter has been assembled and installed in a vehicle. This prototype starter provides quiet, rapid starting of the test car. Questions of cost effectiveness, reliability, durability or manufacturing feasibility of this device have not been addressed. The starter was built for experimental purposes only and development of such a concept for mass production has not been explored.