This invention relates to energy storage, in particular Kinetic Energy Conversion, Storage and Recovery (KESR or KERS), such as for (road) vehicles.

Work + Energy Input

Work is performed and energy expended or input in bringing a vehicle into motion - ie accelerating its mass and overcoming rolling resistance, drive friction and aerodynamic drag in preserving that motion. That input translates into an outcome of kinetic energy of motion. That energy input and outcome, with some losses, is a precious commodity - not least given the fuel consumed in an engine driving motion - so not to lost or be wasted casually and irretrievably in braking. Rather some recovery would be desirable. KERS systems have been developed in motor racing to provide an energy reservoir for selective short term drive output boost, albeit with a penalty of weight, complexity and expense. The Applicant seeks a simpler basic, rudimentary or primitive, but robust, solution. Either a part of a prime mover ic engine output is tapped directly and diverted into a reservoir or vehicle motion from such drive is converted into stored energy for braking. A further consideration is the longevity or duration of energy recovery and deployment as a motion boost, with a balance between amount and time. A repeated cyclical or pulse mode can be used in some aspects of the invention.

Energy Storage

A broad objective is to extract, convert and store the kinetic energy of vehicle motion. The stored energy could be conserved readily available for release as a momentum boost. The interval or lag between storage and recovery is hugely variable at will. Transfer of kinetic energy to stored spring energy can be used to promote deceleration or braking action. In this context the spring represents a reversible or recoverable energy 'sink', load or drain. So conversely braking could be effected by transmission drive coupling to effect spring deflection loading and thus energy charge. Recovery or stored energy extraction efficiency is high, despite some losses, such as through internal and coupling friction. A capability for more 'purposeful' spring format of repeatable and repeated loading, energising or charging mode with minimal losses is envisaged in the present invention.

(Leaf) Spring Diverse, albeit elaborate, so-called 'regenerative' systems have been proposed for recoverable energy storage, including exotic flywheel mass and electrical generators. The Applicant seeks a simpler or 'lower tech', cost-effective, mechanical solution and perceives a spring, and in particular a leaf spring, offers the prospect of simplicity of energy input for spring loading or charging, recoverable upon spring unloading or relaxation. Leaf spring energy stores have also been devised, but generally over-elaborate and with insufficient storage capacity for vehicle use. Generally, spring transverse section width is less than longitudinal span, impacting respectively upon bending deflection and stiffness. Spring and actuator configuration offer opportunities to bolster energy capacity. For prolonged continuous low level drive power coiled spring clockwork mechanisms are well known, but generally unsuitable for upscale to high power outputs; that is large, heavy cumbersome clockwork mechanisms are incompatible with vehicle manoeuvrability.

Prior Art

The UKIPO Search Art made of record from the priority case GB 0823413.0 and categorised by way of background reference comprises:

BE 09500571 Serrien (Figure 1 ) shows individual blade bending for energy storage, using a rack + pinion transmission coupling to vehicle wheel axles; Figure 2 shows stacked leaves of paired leaf springs, but with a mechanical, rather than hydraulic coupling. CN200942711 Wang shows a reed energy storage reservoir, with flywheel drive, for an electric vehicle. JP2003301922 Kyoei Densetsu shows an elastic or hydraulic motor drive coupling with clutch and pump connection. Such art spring solutions are more elaborate than envisaged in the present invention.

More generally, of note are electrical storage, per US 2001 /0008191 ; flywheel motor generator storage, per US 5,931 ,249; motor generator with hydraulic coupling, per US 6,516,925 Ford Global Technologies Inc; elastomeric band storage, per US 5,655,617; pneumatic spring, per US 5,109,812. Hybrid and inertia! or flywheel storage art includes US 2008/0236910 Kejha, US 2008/030828 Keiha, US 2009/0127008 Batdorf, US 2008/0060859 Klemen, US 2008/0093143 Harrison, US 2007/0169970 Kydd, US 2007/0209608 Rutledge, US 2006/0000650 Hughey; but again these reflect elaborate multi- mode approaches.

Statements of Invention

An energy transfer device configured for kinetic energy conversion, storage and recovery, the device comprising a spring (11) for potential energy storage, an actuator (12) operable upon the spring, for spring loading and deflection, such as by actuator displacement, in a spring energy charge and storage mode, with stored energy recoverable upon spring relaxation, by reverse transfer through the actuator. For reversible or recoverable energy conversion and storage, a spring could be configured as a fabric wall envelope, enclosure, bag or cell and actuator as a spring wrap, peripheral binding or enclosure of the bag wall.

A self-contained energy conversion, storage and recovery module, with interacting spring and actuator, could be contrived for on-board mobile vehicle use, with a fluid actuator charged by pump and/or accumulator, driven by a vehicle transmission power take-off or drive bleed, and operative to deflect the spring as an energy store or slave, with a facility to recover stored spring energy upon spring release to re-charge or reverse charge the actuator and thus the drive train and thereby promote vehicle motion.

In a variable profile fluid cell format, kinetic energy powered fluid charge means is operable to apply cell fluid pressure for energy storage; reversible as a discharge means for relieving cell pressure to recover and convert stored energy. A fluid-charged enclosure could feature a resilient integrated containment wall and spring sheath, for reversible recoverable energy charge or extraction mode.

Other options include multi-stage and/or co-operatively interfitting actuators.

With a control means the device could be operable in successive alternating cycles of energy charging, storage and recovery or extraction. Similarly, the device could be operable incrementally in pulsed mode with a priming surge or burst of energy storage, to preface a prolonged period of storage and progressive recovery or recuperation. Configuration as a deformable fluid cell could allow circumferential installation in or upon a wheel or tyre

The invention also embraces a mobile vehicle or trailer, fitted with a device for energy storage, conversion and recovery, coupled to a drive transmission. Event Cycle

Spring loading or energy charge, energy storage and recovery phases or events can be undertaken in successive alternating cycles, waves or pulses of vehicle acceleration and deceleration. These could be averaged and smoothed out by some form of energy accumulator or store, without necessarily resorting to the coiled spring and escapement mechanism of, say, traditional clocks. A combination of compressible gas (eg air) and less compressible or relatively incompressible liquid could be used in a hydro-pneumatic accumulator variant. Spring Based Energy Storage

Spring based energy storage technology is now re-emergent with new sustainable technology devices in micro-power and piezoelectric devices, but the Applicant sees larger scale opportunities, not least with special spring materials (including ceramics and polymers), material (say, heat and surface) treatments along with spring configuration and disposition. Springs configured as mechanical and/or fluid elements for energy storage capacity, can be adopted in conjunction with more esoteric ancillary forms, such as those utilising hydrostatic, hydrodynamic, electrostatic or electromagnetic effect.

Spring and Actuator Integration

Certain aspects of the invention address inherent spring and charging or energising actuator forms and their (re-)configuration for seamless merger, combination or integration. Diverse spring and actuator options are envisaged, to bolster energy storage capacity and energy density. A modular format is envisaged to allows replication and repeatability for scaling up.

Design Strategy

One design strategy is to start with basic versions of key elements, specifically a spring and actuator and to allow for elaboration of one or both; culminating in a 'fusion' of respective form and function. Rather than one being moved by the other, each becomes on a par with or subservient to the other. Structure is shared and (inter)action 'subliminal'. Energy charge and recovery are alternate reversible modes of a common structure.

Spring Format

A leaf spring is of a traditional outwardly simplistic even primitive format, and can be of conventional metal fabrication, but admits of composite materials, such as ceramics or polymers. The overall spring body has a modest curvature or bow, but is subject to essentially local (linear) displacement. Subsidiary Statements of Invention

A kinetic energy recovery facility in a motor vehicle by means of a co-operatively inter-coupled hydraulic motor, hydraulic rams and (say, leaf) springs. When a vehicle is to be slowed or brought to rest, this is achieved by means of a hydraulic motor mounted on an axle and differential. A valve is opened and the motor (hydraulic) acts (in pump delivery mode) to activate a hydraulic ram which in turn acts upon a (leaf) spring, slowing the vehicle and storing kinetic energy; when the vehicle is stopped or slowed as necessary, the valve can having locked the ram either allow oil to circulate freely in a reservoir or be opened to allow the leaf spring (or any other type being used (eg coil) to act on the ram whose oil in turn drives the hydraulic motor which in turn powers the differential, releasing the energy or recovering the kinetic energy and propelling the vehicle. Thus kinetic energy is stored in a (leaf) spring by means of hydraulic motor or rams, by means of a suitable spool valve the system can lock the associated differential, recirculate its oil and have no effect, have variable braking, slowing and therefore storage effect, and likewise by means of the valve have variable release of the stored energy in the spring.

Chain Mail Spring Fabric

As a more elaborate spring development, a 'free-form' lattice or matrix spring could be configured as 'loose' inter-coupled chain links as a chain mail format fabric, whether of metal and/or plastics, permeated with elastic 'stretch and recover' warp and weft threads or strands, to create an embedded tension or taut disposition. The individual links and/or their local interconnection could themselves be spring elements, such as cir-clips As the fabric is draped over a surface, so the relative link disposition and inter-link coupling and so inherent fabric tension changes. The interlink 'weave' dictates fabric 'flow' compliance, as for textile cloth. Elasticated chain mail could serve as an over- and/or under-lay to an impervious fabric or plastics sheet wall bag cell for prime or charge with actuator fluid. That is chain mail containment of a fluid cell.

Actuator Format

In the fluid actuator art, linear action piston-in-cylinder rams are well-rehearsed, but for the purposes of intense energy storage and recovery needs of the present invention, a multi-stage sub-division and inter-nesting for compact retracted format, but with great collective extension potential could be deployed with external or internal reactive spring elements. Ram structural (say, wall) elements could themselves serve as 'transitory' (stiff) springs. That is the rams would serve as both a containment and energy store, to supplement or substitute for discrete springs. Elastic(ated) draw cords, encased rubber bands or bungees could be fitted internally to boost inherent energy storage capacity. Such bungees could be configured as chain mail spring strips, bands, collars or tubes or other load spreading or distribution forms.

Fluid Bag Cell

For an even more 'seamless' consolidation or fusion of spring and actuator elements, a fabric bag actuator cell with outer and/or inner spring containment (wall) layer could be contrived. Thus the distinction between spring and actuator would be 'subliminal', if not eliminated altogether, in a fusion of (mechanical) 'energy cell' roles. In a (road, tram or railway) vehicle context, the mass and so weight of an energy cell would itself impact upon suspension behaviour, but could be configured as part of the unsprung mass, say by carrying one or more bags in suspension and/or energy storage mode upon a wheel axle.

Spring Material - Metal, Ceramic, Plastics

Metal is traditionally employed for its inherent elasticity (ie recoverability from deflection without permanent set or distortion) and strength, enhanced by material blending and treatment, such as heating and quenching cycles and surface treatment, such as shot peening. Special spring steels have been formulated of which advantage could be taken, albeit at increased cost.

Latterly, 'composite' springs have been developed from non-metallic ceramic and fibre-reinforced synthetic plastics polymer (matrix) materials offering greater subtlety in behavioural characteristics. Synthetic or combination metal and synthetic spring materials have found diverse roles in commercial vehicle beam axle leaf spring suspensions and tilt-recline chair actions. Ceramic examples include MgO partially stabilised zirconia. Alternatively, silicon nitride offers low density, high hardness, high Young's modulus, high strength and high fracture toughness. Corrosion resistance is another factor.

Spring Rate & Action For analysis and design, graphical plots could be made of applied static or dynamic load vs deflection reflect spring stiffness or spring rate. So-called 'constant force' springs, such as coils of stainless or high carbon steel have been devised, for constant deployed or applied force with deflection, displacement or extension. Use may be made of these characteristic for even energy storage. Spring bending or flex and subsequent recovery is coupled with a fluid actuator or converter. Spring stiffness or modulus, reflected in deflection per unit force applied, is a factor in energy storage capacity, in relation to spring deflection or deformation. Repeatability and consistency of performance are considerations, as is energy 'density' coefficient or the energy storage capacity per unit mass. Compared to that, the occupied space envelope, whilst not insignificant, is a less critical factor.

Fluid Actuator

A conventional proprietary linear fluid actuator, such as a piston-in-cylinder ram, coupled to a spring end, can be used for spring deflection and bending. The spring connection point can be varied. Similarly, more elaborate, bespoke or optimised actuators, such as multi-stage rams, can be employed. Spring bending could be implemented about a fixed or movable fulcrum, which could be the coupling ends of a displacement element, such as a ram piston. This to allow ram pivot with extension and spring deflection and reversal upon retraction. Multi-stage and/or inter-nesting actuator formats are not restricted to linear rams, but could be adapted to a (interfitting) bag cells in serial and/ or parallel array. A fabric bag wall is an example of a deformable structure and as such represents a sub-set of a wider category including superficially more rigid frameworks.

Modular Actuator Cartridge Format

A modular or demountable cartridge format, such as a mechanism housed in a compact discrete (perimeter) chassis frame, can be used. This would be convenient for a flexible after-market or retro-fit conversion or adaptation. Modules could be packed and stacked alongside and/or one upon another, individually or collectively operable or deployable in a co-operative array. Multiple cartridges could be grouped or clustered for greater energy storage capacity. Stacked, Layered or Tiered Springs

Whilst stacked, layered or tiered multi-leaf springs are known in freight vehicle beam axle suspensions, scope remains for a single or mono leaf spring for energy storage. A simple minimal leaf profile could be generally straight or moderately curved (convex or concave) in a relaxed or un- deflected (pre-)set. More elaborate leaf forms, including 'slow' or flat in and over- folds, spirals or convolutes, could be contrived. Individual leafs could be co-operatively inter-coupled, say end or sideways on. Spring cross-sectional shape and or size, in particular thickness or depth, can vary along its length, say being greater mid-span where deflection is imposed. Spring end termination can differ for mounting or connection to a displacement actuator. Multiple leaves of different lengths can be tied together. An elliptical overall curvature profile is common for leaf spring suspensions. Differential curvatures on opposite sides could be employed. A later variant profile is parabolic, with variable depth leaves and low friction surface contact.

Leaf Interventions - Cells

Inserts or interventions between leaves can be employed to alter overall spring characteristics. An instance is a (slim) deformable wall bag or closed cell charged with fluid. A variable capacity, profile or charge cell could be used in turn to vary the spread and surface contact area of the cell interleave. A cell wall may have a static or mobile, say rolling, or wiping, contact with a leaf surface.

Cell Fluid

The cell fluid content may be hydraulic and/or pneumatic. Fluids with magnetic particles in suspension could be used for more controlled behaviour and performance - such as is achieved in adjustable stiffness fluid suspension damper struts. A magnetic field or electrostatic charge could be applied to regulate fluid flow. Conversely, charge or current could be generated by fluid movement.

Elastic Limit Spring stiffness and permitted range of deflection or travel are factors in energy storage capacity. The deflection range is such as to keep the spring well within its elastic limit, that is without permanent deformation or set. Stored energy extraction is effected by allowing the spring to recover partially or completely to its undetected state, while coupled to an output drive mechanism, such as a fluid ram or motor.

Energy Charging

Desirably, spring energy storage action is effected in a single continuous charging stroke or sweep of a spring displacement or deflection element. Alternatively, a repeated series of strokes can be employed by successive coupling and decoupling to allow intervening retraction or recover of the displacement element. A ratchet coupling between actuator and spring could be fitted to this end.

Cartridge Module A cartridge frame configuration is convenient for a demountable module, in which a leaf spring spans or straddles opposite sides of a frame and is deflected by fluid actuators operative between spring ends and an opposite frame side. The frame serves as a stiffer brace, or can itself be used as a supplementary elastic element.

Deflection Profile

Collective, cumulative or net spring and frame deflection can create or be reflected in a characteristic 'storage' energy form or profile. Bounding 'profile' bags can be deployed to constrain the deflected profile and when compressed in doing so themselves serve for energy storage. Spring Frame

A complete (say, closed) frame could be comprised of spring elements, co-operatively disposed. A matrix or lattice of spring frame elements could bound and/or sub-divide an array of fluid cells. With a wide strip frame profile, such intervening fluid cells could be contained between spring walls. Frame strips could intersect, such as through interlocking notches, in a deformable matrix or lattice. Thus, cell shapes and sizes could vary with bounding or intermediate sub-dividing or partition frame strip disposition. Rectangular or curvilinear strips could bound rectangular or rounded cells. Restraint or tie wires or cables could be deployed to supplement or substitute for frame strips. Stress tension could be routed through such cables, using linear or rotary actuators.

Spring (Energy) Containment Bag

A deformable wall wrap, envelope or containment, such as a fabric bag or pouch, braced with cables and/or stiffener ribs, of tension or compression strips or bands, could be contrived as an energy storage 'buffer' reservoir. Multiple individual or co-operatively inter-coupled such bags could be deployed selectively according to energy storage requirements. Thus, say, one bag cell chamber could communicate with another, through a control valve.

Chain Mail Wrap

A metallic or metalled reinforced fabric mesh envelope or wrap, such as a form of knitted or woven chain mail, either of metal or polymer yarns or ties, could be used as a bag confinement or containment medium. The bag wall would be tough, abrasion-resistant, resilient and impervious, but as a back-up, an internal fluid tight pillow liner could sit within such a braced bag, rather like an inner tube. Alternatively, back-up sealing could be achieved with a 'floating' polymer sealant, say of the kind used for puncture repairs. Stretch wall distension, along with compressible fluid, such as a hydraulic liquid and air mix, could achieve an energy balloon store. Local cell wall distension, stretch or bulge, could be allowed between peripheral binding tie bands, patches or braces. Cable Tie

A mesh of braided or wound metal cable or fibre reinforce polymer ties could be deployed to interconnect spring strips or bands for tension force transfer or translation. A rotary pulley wind tensioner could thus be used for spring band deflection. Similarly, stored spring energy recovery could be achieved by cable unwind, such as to rotate a drive transfer pulley connected to a generator or motor. Ties could be nestled or combined with the bands themselves, such as by local surface or end attachment. Spring bands could be located in concealed chassis locations, such as otherwise hollow chassis members, accessible through cable tie drive with more convenient accessible input or output terminations.

Spring Roll

A rolled, concertina, over-layered over-folded panel, fabric bag, rather like a padded or quilted tool roll, of elongate spring elements with mutually tied ends, could be used for compact deployable storage. The bag could unravel for energised deployment under internal fluid fill pressure or roll up for de-energised fluid contents discharge with attendant spring deflection upon bag wall distension and represents a safe protective containment shroud.

Monocoque Energy Store

Rather than disparate individual (strut or beam) elements, energy could be stored in a monocoque shell itself, by shell deflection or re-shaping. Thus, say, a shell could bulge or flatten locally or overall with energy storage and recovery in relation to the structure. Shell format or configuration could be designed with a secondary energy storage role in mind, along with a primary structural bracing and support role, such as for a road vehicle.

Energy recovery upon 'modest' deflection for stiff structures would entail 'leveraged' transfer mechanisms, compared with a more 'compliant' (ie greater bending deflection per unit applied load) individual spring element, to convert the stored energy into kinetic energy or motion. Rather than a sudden 'snatch' in recovery motion which would be translated into drive lunge' a more progressive cushioned drive transfer. A fluid accumulator, such as a hydro-pneumatic cell, might be used for this, with high fluid pressure stored in a reservoir, later released in a controlled bleed of pressure dissipation into discharge flow, say, through a fluid actuator or motor. One-way valves could 'lock' in the stored pressure until required. Conversely, energy storage upon rapid deceleration or braking, sudden motion decay is converted into abrupt accumulator fluid pressure rise.

Monocoque elemental deflection under suspension load action can also be converted into stored energy. This allied to deflection and energy storage associated with vehicle dynamics. Thus multiple deflection and associated energy storage modes can be utilised independently or collectively. Multiple Condition Forms

In one example, a spring element or elemental matrix or lattice array, such as a closed monocoque shell has an incremental series of possible intermediate stable condition forms between which it can transition under applied load. From a neutral or unloaded form, the shell can be deflected into an initial loaded level and thence on to successive levels, each of which represents a stable 'locked' condition. Snap recovery between a higher and lower energy storage forms could be contrived, with attendant bursts of energy recovery. An alternative would be a continuum of different forms, albeit with no stable form. Spring Sub-division

A spring element could itself be sub-divided, segmented or partitioned, so not all elements are deflected to the same extent, if at all, under a given load. Sub-division could be orientated transversely or longitudinally of an elongate spring, such as a leaf. Elaborations in spring format, include local stiffening or weakening to engender certain deflection modes, so the spring assumes a desired shape upon loading. Spring pre-form could contribute a similar effect. An individual elongate spring leaf could deflect along or across its length, with a 3-D bow in two planes. The more complex the deflection modes, the greater the capacity for energy storage, and so the greater the prospective energy density per unit mass. Along with spring format elaboration and operational sophistication, so actuator configuration and behaviour could be more complex, with differential transfer, feed, extraction or load rates.

Combined Spring and Actuator Traditionally, spring and actuator have assumed separate forms and roles, but a combined or shared structure and function could culminate in, say, a deflectable wall actuator body. Thus, say, a piston and/or cylinder of a fluid actuator ram might flex or bend under load for energy storage, to supplement or obviate a discrete spring element. Conversely, a hollow spring body or shell housing might itself be charged with fluid to serve as an on-board actuator for spring body deflection under fluid pressure load. A deflected, folded, bent creased or kinked hollow spring could thus be straightened by application of fluid pressure, either continuous or as a sudden pulse surge, to a sealed core cell. In a more elaborate spring form, a corrugated or rippled wall profile spring housing could be straightened by internal fluid pressure elevation, such as in the manner of a barometric bellows. Thus local surface discontinuities could be entrapped stress energy traps.

Spring Sheet

In a broader category of planar spring forms, aside from elongate strips or bands, walls or sheets of spring material could be employed. Such spring sheet layers could be juxtaposed, eg in face-to-face abutment, with fluid actuator bag cells disposed for sheet deflection, displacement and recovery.

Sheets could be fitted externally or internally of the bags. Fluid supply or exhaust ports could be fitted to bag walls, with flow control valves. A multi-layer sheet could be interposed or interspersed with panel bags. Sheets could be free-floating or secured, by local fastening or face bonding to bag walls.

Rectangular, polygonal multi-faceted bag, pad or pack forms could be fitted with spring face panels. A pyramidal bag would be stable between deflated and inflated conditions, with panel integrity and stability promoted by face sheet springs. Curvilinear, such as cylindrical sheet or band spring and actuator bag formats can also be adopted. A mixture of sheet and strip or band springs could fit a target energy storage space, such as an otherwise under-utilised or redundant voids in a vehicle chassis or body. In a monocoque structure, both frame and body panels might themselves serve as spring elements. Springs and actuators could share space. Containment, enclosure or shielding for freedom from interference and operative safety are other considerations. Mechanical spring formats, such as metal leaf springs, which might hitherto have been regarded as basic or primitive could be re- expressed in more refined and sophisticated guise, such as a spring wrap, envelope or fluid cell enclosure. One objective would be greater energy storage capacity of energy density.

Deformable Frame

As indicated previously, frame assembly and/or individual frame elements can themselves be used for energy storage, by allowing certain spring deflection or deformation under load, with reversion to original form when unloaded. Thus, say, (vehicle) wheel travel suspension loads transfered through mountings to a body or chassis structure could be absorbed as stored (potential) energy in a 'flex- cushion' lattice frame. A laminated metal construction, such as a mix of high tensile and regular materials could combined deformability with recovery and strength. Spring charging or loading could also be undertaken by, say, fluid actuators, themselves charged by a fluid (hydraulic, pneumatic or hydro-pneumatic) pump driven through a transmission fluid coupling and torque converter to capture kinetic energy of motion. An apportioned combination of kinetic energy and suspension travel could be stored. Ancillary fluid heating could arise upon energy charging, but which in turn could be stored and converted for recovery, rather than wasted.

Embodiments

There now follows a description of some particular embodiments of the invention, with reference to and as shown in the accompanying diagrammatic and schematic drawings, in which:

Figures 1 through 4B show various elongate leaf spring 11 and associated piston-in-cylinder fluid actuator 12 ram dispositions for a (road) vehicle 10; rams 12 are charged by a fluid pump 15 from a fluid (such as hydraulic oil) reservoir or accumulator 23; with pump drive from a differential 18 to a rear beam axle 17 and outboard ground wheels 13; rams are inter-coupled in a circuit by a fluid connector 13 and ram charge or discharge action for spring energising or de-energising is coordinated through a controller 14; a remotely operable clutch is fitted between the differential drive 18 and the hydraulic pump 15; the charged accumulator 23 can serves not only as a fluid capacity reservoir, but as a recoverable energy store as fluid under pressure; a diverter option depicted in broken outline allows relief of accumulator internal pressure;

Figure 1 shows a plan view of beam axle with splayed diagonal actuators 12 bearing through end fittings 13 upon opposite ends of a transverse leaf spring 11 ; Figure 2 shows a development of Figure 1 occupying the entire floor plan of a small electric car, with forward transverse spring 11 and actuator mountings upon a rear axle; this allows for greater ram (longitudinal) displacement and spring deflection;

Figure 3A shows a remotely operable clutch between rear axle differential and hydraulic pump to charge actuators in a circuit with a hydro-pneumatic accumulator;

Figure 3B shows a local detail of a mobile, floating, position-adjustable leaf spring capture point 22 for a fluid ram actuator 12, such as with a pinch roller clamp; Figure 3C shows a multi-stage ram 21 option, with an operative spread more able to accommodate leaf spring 11 deflection; Figure 4A shows a longitudinal side view of a chassis cartridge for a commercial vehicle with on-board spring and actuator assembly coupled by a remote control link; spring and actuator module is fitted beneath a load deck platform, for less impact upon overall vehicle load capacity;

Figure 4B shows a longitudinal side view of an articulated tractor- trailer freight lorry or truck combination, with upright energy storage module demountable upon a tractor cab rear wall;

Figures 5A through 5D show selectively deployable multiple grouped spring leaves 11 with outboard end capture or bearing points 31 for underslung linear piston-in-cylinder actuators 12;

Figure 5A shows a three-quarter perspective view of an arched leaf spring cluster with common end actuator rams in an unloaded condition; Figure 5B shows the leaf spring cluster of Figure 5A with one leaf selectively engaged and deflected by opposed end actuators;

Figure 5C shows the leaf spring cluster of Figures 5A and 5B with multiple (in this case three) adjacent leaves selectively engaged and deflected by opposed end actuators;

Figure 5D shows the leaf spring cluster of Figures 5A through 5C with all leaves selected, engaged and deflected by oppose end actuators;

Figures 6A through 6D show a side view of selective (wide span) spring leaf 11 deflection of Figures 5A -5D, using splayed actuator rams 12 with end bearings 13;

Figure 6A shows a side or plan view of a stacked or tiered leaf array with one leaf engaged and ready for deflection by opposed end actuator rams; Figure 6B shows further deflection of more springs;

Figure 6C shows full spring deflection of all spring leaves into profile conformity; this represents a stiff spring collective assembly; Figures 7A through 7D show various fluid bag cells 41 for local bearing upon a relatively wide span leaf spring 11 for loading deflection; actuator cells 41 are depicted as relatively confined local elements in relation to the full leaf spring span, but could be grouped as multiple discrete, but cooperatively deployed, actuator elements in a serial array distributed over a proportionately greater proportion of the spring, where deflection in relation to tied ends will be greatest; individual bag ports 42 can be linked in a hydraulic circuit (not shown);

Figure 7A shows a side view of a relaxed leaf spring (in solid line, with optional progressively shorter span leaf stack in broken outline) with a deflated fluid bag cell; Figure 7B shows fluid bag inflation to effect spring deflection and straightening; Figure 7C shows fluid bag deflation to allow spring relaxation; Figure 7D shows a multiple bag cluster in serial array, inflated in unison to effect spring deflection;

Figures 8A and 8B show a culmination of the Figure 7A-D multiple bag approach in a broader single bag with a domed roof profile actuator bag for progressively variable lateral spread with inflation and attendant wider spring surface contact over a far greater proportion of spring span than with Figures 7A-D; and also to allow energy storage within 'charged' cell fluid and deformable wall structure; the relaxed spring condition 'droops' upon the bag profile and so promotes bag deflation and recovery to a collapsed retracted condition; each bag is itself depicted as a stacked cell tier with concertina fold bellows bounding walls for progressive cumulative extension; Figure 8A depicts a deflated bag in minor contact with a relaxed spring; Figure 8B depicts an inflated bag with spring deflection; a port 42 is used for fluid interchange between bag 41 and a fluid reservoir accumulator (not shown);

Figures 9A through 9C show an elongate fluid bag cell with opposed spring walls; bag profile varies with Internal fluid pressure charge against an Inward bias of profiled leaf or band spring upper and lower walls; this from a collapsed condition of Figure 9A creating an Internal bag venturi style neck or reetrlctor throat passage between opposite ends through to a distended form of Figure 9B with spring walls flattened until Internal pressure dissipation and reversion under spring wall recovery to a collapsed waisted state of Figure ΘC;

Figures 10A through 10E show individually or collectively dβployable variant spring strap 11 bounded mattress slab format fluid bags 41 with end wall ports 42; a multi-chamber pillow bag mattress format ie depicted with upper outer spring wall relaxed In a shallow concave arc until fluid charge to expand the bag and deflect the spring into a flatter format of Figure 10Θ, before collapse tor energy recovery; a variant profile with opposed concave spring walls Is depleted in Figure 10, with bag distension upon Internal fluid charge and opposite slatted spring wall deflection; a parallel array of slim bags is depicted in Figure IOD with Individual bags selectively deployable to respective inflated conditions in a co-operative array such as depicted Figure 1OE; again with an overall integration of spring and actuator, through actuator Internal fluid and bounding spring walls;

Figures HAthrough 11D show a differential length laaf spring 11 stack with intervening hydro- pneumatic fluid bag cells 41; spring leaf faces could be bonded to or otherwise Integrated with bag cell walls to preserve intimate wide surface area contact and obviate bag slippage relative to a leaf; a relaxed spring and associated bag condition Is depicted in Figure 11 A and a charged bag with flattened leaf condition In Figure 11 B; with reversion upon bag collapse and spring relaxation in Figure 11 C; nominal bag access portε42 are Indicated, accessible between and/or through leaves, the integrated actuator bag and bounding leaf wall format can be operated as self-contained modules, with individual or collective bag charge, or in conjunction with discrete actuators, such as rams at oppose leaf mounting ends as depicted in Figure 11 D; a fluid accumulator reservoir and controller 43 is used in energy charging and recovery phases;

Figures 12A through 12G show an elongate fluid bag 41 with opposed side wall groove or recessed profile to accomodate a leaf spring 11 , with optlonalslender bowed end wall springs; a bounding spring wall -could elide relatively to a -fabric bag waft or bonded to or otherwise integrated therewith; corresponding longitudinal side and end views are presented alongside; thus Figure 12B is an end view of Figure i2A and so on with Figures 12C and 12D; differential wall profiles could be adopted as In Figure 12A, with a flat underside 'ground plane' and a curvilinear upper side with Intervening concertina fold bellows side walls as Indicated in Figure 128; bag relaxation of Figures 12A-B arises with low Internal bag fluid pressure; bag distension and spring layer straightening Is depicted In

Figures 12C and 12D; with reversion to bag collapse flattening upon fluid discharge depicted in Figure 12E; along with optional end wall spring leaves of Figure 12F and end wall spring leaf segmentation of Figure 12G ; the spring leaves 11 can serve as contact spreader or buffer plates for en actuator (not shown) such as the linear piston-in-cyllnder or fluid bag displacement devices described In relation to later drawings; an inset side wall spring 32 of Figure 12F or overlaid spring sequence 33 of Figure 12G could also Interact with displacement actuators for energy charge and recovery phases;

Figures 13A through 13C show a stacked array of linear elongate fluid bags 42 with elongate side grooves or recesses on opposite side walls to accommodate interleaved slender (single)ieaf springs Ii ; fluid access to the bag Interiors Is through ports 42; the stack represents a far more substantial energy storage mass reliant upon co-operative movement of layers from a relaxed droop or sag form of Figure 13A, through a straightened charged form of Figure 13Θ, and reversion to a relaxed form of Figure 13C upon fluid charge exhaustion; Inherent bag wall flexibility allow relative stage movement for overall change of form of the bag assembly; intermediate spring leaves can again sit in corresponding grooves in bag walls to allow for some relative movement upon bag form change; a slender profile elongate leaf spring Is depicted for a more disciplined compact modular assembly format; modules can be mutually juxtaposed Into larger, say wider groupings or clusters; such a modular cluster can be tailored to a particular situation, both physical space and energy capacity; Figures 14A through 141 show variant leaf spring configurations of more elaborate overall and/or end termination form; each variant is shown In longitudinal side view alongside a corresponding end view of mutual juxtaposed spring clusters; thus Figures HA and 14B are corresponding side and end views respectively, and so on with Figures 14C and i4D, etc; the individual spring forms are generally self- explanatory, from a simple out-turned end of Figure 14A/B, a closed return end-loop ofFigure 14C/D, a repeated end reverse of Figure 14E/F, a tight crescent of Figure 14G/G*, an open loop crescent of Figure 14H/H, a flared end bow of Figure 141/J and a closed loop ended bow of Figure 14K/L; the intention is to allow end mounting and overall form compliance

Figure 15 shows a longitudinal side view of a composite bonded laminate leaf spring body; composite material options include ceramic and/or polymer compositions; different materials can feature in successive lamination layers 11 , with a mix with metals; this for denser energy storage capacity for particular applications, such as greater compliance or deflection range;

Figure 16 shows a spiral wound spring strip or sheet 34 with an inner end mounting hub configured as a central rotary fluid actuator core 35; the spring may feature a laminated composite material stacked spring leaves 11 such as of Figure 15; spring loading or charging would be by winding using the rotary actuator drive 35 in the manner of a torsion coil; in reverse mode the actuator 35 could be used as a pumpt to extract and convert stored spring energy into motion;

Figures 17A and 17B show a piston-in-cylinder actuator ram with internal 'slow' or wide spread per turn spiral wound longitudinal spring to wrap around a movable piston within a pressurisable fluid chamber; Figure 17A shows a piston 38 retracted within a cylinder body 37 with internal leaf spring coil 36 relaxed; Figure 17B shows full travel extension of a piston, with internal spring compressed; aside from its internal energy storage capability, the actuator ram can itself be used to load an external spring (not shown); multiple stacked or interleaved such spring wraps of similar or differential deflection or torsional stiffness could be housed within a common chamber; the actuator is fitted with end mountings 13 configured to circumstances; thus, say, a captive or abutment termination and interaction with a spring could be employed;

Figures 18A through 18G show multiple stackable, end-to-end mounted, inter-coupled actuator piston (in cylinder) rams 38 with respective internal slow spiral wound leaf springs 36;

Figure 18A shows a compact collapsed linear stacked array with cylinders 37 inter-nested in end-to- end abutment; Figure 18B shows an individual ram piston extended to displace the associated cylinder outward from the stack; Figure 18C shows all piston rams extended to space or spread out the stack whilst preserving an overall linear displaced array; the individual rams could be fitted to mutually internest partly or entirely one within another in the manner of, say, a so-called Russian Doll concealment toy; Figure 18D shows a collapsed linear stack with outer slow spiral spring wrap, so the spring effect is distributed over the actuators; Figures 18E through 18G show progressive extension of a multi-stage inter-nested ram, from a fully- retracted condition of Figure 18E with all (in this case both) pistons fully retracted, through a partially extended condition of Figure 18F with first stage outer piston fully extended, but innermost piston still fully retracted; to partial innermost piston extension of Figure 18G; each piston having an associated slow spiral spring wrap; ram end mountings 13 are adapted to their individual situation, to help preserve stack alignment and integrity; the piston of an overlying ram could form the cylinder of an underlying ram; overall, external spring coils 37 could envelope an entire stack, as with Figure 18D, or be sub-divided or truncated; a combination of external and external leaf spring coil dispositions could be fitted; stacked rams could be activated selectively individually or collectively; such linear rams could be used in conjunction with the fluid bag cell formats described in relation to later drawings;

Figures 19A and 19B show fluid bag cells 41 with external slow spiral wound leaf springs 36; Figure 19A depicts a partially deflated or collapsed inner bag of inwardly concave wall profile bounded by a spaced spiral spring wrap with intervening clearance capacity for bag expansion and wall distension with local bulges between spring turns of Figure 19B;

Figures 2OA through 2OC show a fluid, say hydro-pneumatic, reservoir of fluid pouch bag cells 41 of fabric wall envelope, with an optional abrasion resistant layer 44, embraced by diverse wrapped spring sheaths 33; a collapsed flat-pack rectangular foot print format of Figure 2OA with internal wall and/or peripheral bracing or stiffener wrap of spring bands, strips, cables or ties 52, has a fluid connector port 42 at one end, through which the bag can be charged with fluid to achieve a distended inflated form of Figure 2OB, with spring restraint bands 52 stretched and tensioned, for shared energy storage in compress pressurised fluid within taut wrap confines; an array of selectively and cooperatively interconnected such bag cells is depicted in Figure 2OC with fluid control valve 14; Figures 21 A through 21 C show a development of the bag cell 42 of Figures 20A-C, again to serve as a hydro-pneumatic reservoir, with metallic or metalled reinforced fabric mesh, such as a form or derivative of knitted or woven chain mail, either of metal or polymer yarns or ties, as a bag confinement or containment medium; the bag wall should be tough abrasion-resistant through a layer 44, resilient and impervious, but as a back-up, an internal fluid tight pillow liner 45 could sit within such a braced bag, rather like an inner tube; alternatively, back-up sealing could be achieved with a floating polymer sealant; stretch walls, along with compressible fluid, such as a hydraulic liquid and air mix, could achieve an energy balloon store; bag wall distension, stretch or bulge, could be allowed between peripheral banding tie bands, local patches or braces; Figure 21 B shows an inflated bag with distended wall panels and binding wraps, with local bag bulges of Figure 21 C; Figures 22A and 22B show a fluid bag 41 enveloped by an intersecting lattice of mutually overlaid spring 11 strip bands in one or more discrete of stacked layers which can be shared between multiple bags as depicted in Figure 22A; a complete (say, closed) frame could be comprised of spring elements, co-operatively disposed; a matrix or lattice of spring frame elements could be bound and/or sub-divide an array of fluid cells; with a wide strip frame profile, such intervening fluid cells could be contained between spring walls; frame strips could intersect, such as through interlocking notches, in a deformable matrix or lattice; thus cell shapes and sizes could vary with bounding or sub-dividing frame strip disposition;

Figures 23A through 23F show various configurations of restraint ties or cables 46 operative upon or to substitue for frame strips or bands; stress tension can be routed through cables using linear or rotary actuators; Figure 23A shows a tie 46 disposed between ground plane tether points, over an underlying fluid bag 42 in a relaxed or deflated condition; Figure 23B shows bag inflation and wall distention to tension and stretch bounding ties; a rotary pulley wind tensioner actuator 47 could thus be used for spring band deflection; similarly, stored spring energy recovery could be achieved by cable unwind, such as to rotate a drive transfer pulley connected to a generator or motor; ties could be nestled or combined with the bands themselves, such as by local surface or end attachment; spring bands could be located in concealed chassis locations, such as otherwise hollow chassis members (not shown), accessible through cable tie drive with more convenient accessible input or output terminations; Figure 23C shows a further or fully distended bag by increased or maximised internal pressure charge; Figure 23D shows a rotary motor-generator actuator 48 for cable 46 tension and recovery upon relaxation; Figure 23E shows bag 41 distension; Figure 23F shows generator mode upon bag 41 deflation;

Figures 24A and 24B show a rolled fabric bag 41 format with intervening spring elements 34, rather like a tool roll; Figure 24A shows an interleaved spring and bag; Figure 24B shows spring elements 34with mutually tied ends, deployable for compact deployable shroud; the bag could unravel or roll up with spring deflection and represents safe protective containment shroud;

Figures 25A through 25F show variant configurations of interconnected spring links, with a spring chain mail fabric; Figures 25A and 25B show juxtaposed split-circumference spring loops or rings 52; Figure 25C shows a wall panel or mat 51 for a fluid bag or pouch cell 42 comprising an array of interconnected links 41 ; Figure 25D shows an inflated bag of Figure 25C with distended walls and stretched springs; Figure 25E shows a local enlargement of interconnected spring wall in a relaxed condition; Figure 25F shows a local enlargement of interconnected spring (loop or ring) wall in a stretch tensioned condition, with optional permeating elastic draw cords 53 running as warp and weft threads through the fabric;

Figures 26A through 26G show various configuration actuators, with multi-stage capability, configured for energy storage, with elongate rubber bands, bungees or chain mail spring strips, upon an end mounting 13, which could accommodate modest actuator pivot; Figures 26A and 26B reflect internal bungee strap or cord return bias, whereas Figures 26C and 26D reflect external bias;

Figure 26A shows an actuator ram with piston 38 restraint by elastic bungee cords 54 in a largely retracted condition with modest bungee stretch; Figure 26B shows a fully extended actuator ram piston 38 with (extreme) stretched bungee cord 54 restraint and retraction bias, as reflected in the local enlargement variants of Figures 26E through 26G;

Figure 26C shows a largely retracted actuator ram piston with modest restraint bungee stretch and containment within an end recess; Figure 26D shows actuator ram charge for deployment with full piston extension and fully stretched bungee cords around the piston and largely externally of the cylinder; woven band, spring reinforced and braided bungee construction is reflected respectively in local enlargement Figures 26E through 26G; such rams could serve both as a containment and energy store, to supplement or substitute for discrete springs; elastic draw cords, encased rubber bands or bungees 54 could be fitted internally to boost inherent energy storage capacity; bungees could be configured as chain mail spring strips, bands collars or tubes; Figure 26E detail reflects an elastic band; Figure 26F a rubber band; and Figure 26G chain mail spring strips or mesh;

Figures 27A and 27B show a fluid cell, in particular air bag, with chain mail envelope or wrap, disposed as a suspension bag for a vehicle beam axle 17, charged with wheel travel over undulating terrain and. or vehicle acceleration or deceleration; Figure 27A shows a longitudinal view of a vehicle chassis beam member 25 with underslung fluid cushion bag suspension 42 set within a spring chain mail wrap, with a relatively 'relaxed' somewhat squat compacted bag 51 , in relation to a distended and linearly extended reach or span bag of Figure 27B;

Figures 28A through 28C show an ATV or quad bike conversion or adaptation with various spring 10 and actuator (11 ) dispositions; Figure 28A shows a perspective outline of an ATV body form with front and rear mounted transverse spring and opposite end actuators, with fluid inter-couple to an on-board pump driven from a power take-off (p.t.o.) of the drive transmission under a handle bar mounted controller 14; Figure 28B shows an alternative configuration with front and rear mounted longitudinal spring 10 and opposed end actuators (11 ) on each side; Figure 28C shows an ATV adaptation with underlying transverse springs 10 at opposite (front and rear) ends with intervening actuators (11 ) coupled to outboard spring ends at each side;

Figures 29A and 29B show variant ATV conversions with actuator spring charge, using hydraulic circuit inter-couple;

Figure 29A shows a longitudinal side view of an ATV with automatic fluid drive transmission through a hydraulic fluid torque converter inter-coupled through a hydraulic fluid circuit 26 with energy storage fluid actuator strut rams and/or cushion bag cells with spring 10 of a rear axle 17 suspension,; Figure 29B shows a longitudinal side view of an ATV conversion with spring mesh wrapped longitudinal bag cell with hydraulic line 42 to a charge module 15;

Figures 3OA through 3OF show various demountable mobile test rig configurations with on board test measurement and monitoring facilities; Figure 3OA shows a test rig module 61 configured as a demountable rectangular, corner-braced 67 frame, with demountable side panel mesh guard 66, with a certain (say, sack truck) portability and mobility, with the option of still greater integration; Figure 3OB shows a single leaf spring 11 with opposite end actuators 12 set within a rectangular peripheral mounting frame module 61 test rig configuration; Figure 3OC shows a variant test rig of Figure 3OB with stacked springs coupled to opposed end rams; Figure 3OD shows a test rig 61 , hydraulic controller 62, displays 63, external pump or drive connector 64, along with a cluster of springs and respective actuators juxtaposed alongside one another; Figure 3OE shows demountable test rig fitment to an ATV chassis in alternative upright rear hung or horizontal underslung dispositions; Figure 3OF shows a diagrammatic fluid (say, hydraulic) circuit interconnection of spring 11 actuators 12, control valve 14, accumulator reservoir 23, pump 15 and pressure regulator 27; in regenerative (ie energy derived from or by) braking mode the pump 15 is coupled to the transmission to prime actuators 12 and deflect spring 11 in an energy conversion and storage role;

Figures 31 A through 31 D show variant ATV space frames 28 with diverse leaf spring (11) and actuator

(10) mounting dispositions; Figure 31 A shows a space frame 28 with dispersed frame interconnection and mounting points 29; rigid and/or articulated or flex joints may be used according to overall frame deformation tolerated; Figure 31 B shows opposite end mounting disposition of transverse leaf spring

(11 ) and opposed end actuators (10), using the frame mountings 29 of Figure 31 A; Figure 31 C shows an alternative mid-set transverse spring (11 ) and opposed longitudinal actuators (10) on opposite sides aη one (rear) end and a mid-axis actuator at the other (front) end; Figure 31 D shows a longitudinal side view of selective locally deformable lattice frame structure for energy storage within the frame aside from, or in addition to mounted spring and actuators; Figure 31 E shows a stressed frame for energy storage, with mid-set articulation pivot between front and rear sub-frames, which can take account of wheel travel, and so serve a modest suspension function; frame mounting points 29 can use axle mounts as pivot points for multiple fixing points; front and rear horizontal spars could share central mounted spring (11 ); a horizontal platform double acting actuators (10) at opposite ends work on common or juxtaposed springs (11 ) at mid span; as with any braced truss, certain members will be in tension, others in compression at any given imposed frame and wheel loading; a wheeled frame on jacking legs 72 option is depicted in ghosted outline in Figure 3OB; with an alternative demountable stack struck 71 depicted in Figure 3OA; this to give a certain overall frame mobility for mounting and de-mounting; this also being a theme continued for the ATV mounting of Figure 32A and the cart of Figures 36A-C described later;

Figures 32A through 32F show ATV space frames 28 in a triangulated brace configuration and variant leaf spring (11 ) and actuator (10) disposition; Figure 32A shows a triangulated format lattice frame 28 superimposed upon a ghosted background body outline; Figure 32B shows a stand-alone frame 28; Figure 32C shows the frame 28 of Figure 32B fitted at opposite front and rear ends with transverse leaf spring (11) and opposite end actuators (10); Figure 32D shows the Figure 32C frame 28 with underslung mid-span transverse leaf spring (11 ) and opposite end actuators (10) at one (rear) end counterpoised with a single axial actuator (10) at the front end; Figure 32F shows transverse leaf springs (11 ) at opposite front and rear ends with intervening actuators (10);

Figures 33A through 33D show a triangulated ATV space frame 28 with energy storage facility within frame member deformation; Figure 33A shows a triangulated lattice frame 28 with actuator 12 disposed for local frame strut or tie deformation in a transverse diagonal disposition; Figure 33B shows upright mid-axial actuator 12 disposition; Figure 33C shows a diagonal actuator 12 reacting upon a longitudinal diagonal frame member 71 ; Figure 33D shows a diagonal actuator 12 reacting upon a lower longitudinal frame member 71 ;

Figures 34A through 34C show variant twisted leaf spring configuration upon a mid-span frame mounting 29; Figure 34A shows a transverse spring 11 with 90 deg rotational twist at opposite ends paired with opposite end upright actuators12 in conjunction with longitudinal double-acting actuators 12; Figure 34B shows an opposite end-folded spring 11 with transverse and longitudinal paired actuators 12; Figure 34C shows a rectangular closed loop folded leaf spring 11 with opposed actuator 12 pairs on each side; Figures 35A through 35F show deformable inner bag cells 82 within a tyre (casing) 81 ; cells can be disposed as a sequence of local inner tube segments in a circumferential array for incremental deployment; Figure 35A shows a longitudinal side view of an undetected tyre with circumferential internal fluid bag cell array; Figure 35B shows a section of Figure 35A with peripheral internal cell disposition and central axial hub connection to a reservoir accumulator; Figure 35C shows a locally loaded bag cell inner tyre with internal fluid charge; Figure 35D shows a section of Figure 35C reflecting peripheral call partial deflation with fluid displacement 42 to charge a reservoir accumulato 41 ; Figure 35 E shows further tyre rotation to present successive circumferential contact areas and 'overlying; inboard cells; Figure 35F shows a section of Figure 35 with greater cell fluid contents discharge to exhaustion to fill a reservoir accumulator 41 , which can retain a fluid pressure charge for later release into a fluid drive (not shown); one-way diverter valves (not shown) can be used to control cell discharge and re-charge from the reservoir accumulator 41 or a mater supply in a re-circulatory fluid circuit;

Figures 36A through 36C show a go-kart style, pedal-power, trolley car 91 with minimal low profile, ground-hugging, on-off road platform chassis and demountable spring 11 and opposed end actuator option 12, in various dispositions; Figure 36A shows a 3D three-quarter perspective view of a cart with demountable transverse leaf spring 11 with opposite end actuators 12 in alternative upright or horizontal mounting dispositions; Figure 36B shows a kart 91 with transverse spring 11 and longitudinal opposed actuators 12 in a horizontal rear chassis mounted disposition with inter-coupling of fluid actuators with a fluid drive transmission to rear wheels; Figure 36C shows integration of an upright transverse spring 11 and actuator 12 disposition with a cart rear suspension; rotatable or 'reciprocating' action foot pedals to a (rear) wheel drive can also be used to drive a fluid pump in turn to energise spring actuators; Flotation and Hover Devices

Any of the various rigs described could be fitted with (say, pneumatic) flotation devices or buoyancy aids, with drive to a land or marine propulsion system, including impeller or 'reaction' thrusters, such as impulse discharge fluid jets. Sudden release of a substantial inertia! mass under spring couple would give or impart some marked impetus, urge or thrust, but a more progressive and repeated or otherwise continued transfer would be preferable. Partially inflated buoyancy tanks could be used as energy reservoirs by pressure charge from water craft motion or diversion of a primary drive train. As with the spring cell bags described in relation to land based vehicles, the buoyancy bags could contain spring cells or themselves be integrated with cell walls. Similar considerations apply to air cushion riding craft - ie hovercraft.

Further description of drawings

Referring to the drawings, energy storage, conversion and recovery is explored in diverse individual and consolidated spring and actuator formats. A 'basic' leaf spring and discrete actuator ram represents a 'primitive' or rudimentary starting point configuration, such as for an exploratory test rig to evaluate energy storage capacity, to preface development through actuators incorporating springs rams and spring-wrapped fluid actuator cells, with a fluid cell derivative within a tyre. Proprietary elements could be used for leaf spring and actuator, such as re-used spare parts cannibalised and re-deployed from conventional road vehicles. Thus, say, a known leaf spring from an axle suspension could be converted to energy storage, in the same disposition or re-located. Telescopic strut actuators could be juxtaposed with such springs, say splayed from one vehicle side to the other in the manner of existing shock absorber or strut dampers. Overall, a compact and 'energy-dense or intensive' storage medium is desirable for significant and worthwhile energy storage and recovery, such as to give meaningful impetus to a vehicle motion or momentum.

'Charging' or loading a spring for energy storage requires some initial energy input which can be derived from vehicle motion coupled though a drive transmission and/or by (in)direct drive from a prime mover (i.e.) engine. Motion energy or momentum extracted without replacement can be used as for deceleration and braking. This represents a '(motion to spring energy conversion for (later ) recovery' mode. In a converse mode, temporarily stored spring energy is recovered by conversion into motion energy. For a 'passive' leaf spring, such as of Figure 1 , displacement or deflection of one spring end relative to another to deform the spring body against its inherent stiffness, is sufficient to charge the spring with stored latent or potential energy, recovered once the spring is allowed to relax or recuperate to or beyond its original condition. A simple spring deflection mode is in a plane or series of parallel planes, but more complex multiple multi-planar modes, such as for the twisted spring of Figures 34A-C can be used alternatively or together. Deflection is by individual or collective actuator elongation, such as by piston ram extension from a cylinder body and local spring deflection which results in overall spring deformation. For greater effective deformation to that end, double- action and/or double-ended rams could be used. An actuator, such as a ram or deformable wall bag cell can be charged or primed by fluid pressure input such as from a fluid pump or accumulator reservoir. Actuators and/or energy storage springs could be inter-coupled, with charge passed between or from one to another. A hollow leaf spring structure could be used or replicated by fitting leaf springs as bounding side walls to an intervening bag cells. An integrated actuator and spring can use dual-purpose elements of common structure; such as the use of spring strips as bounding walls of an elongate actuator bag in Figures 9A through 9C.

Conversion Work is a product of force times displacement. Power is the rate at which work is performed. As a unit of power, one horsepower is equivalent to 550 pounds (force) at a rate of 1 foot per second. This can be translated into spring energy storage. Thus, spring (tension or compression force) deflection loading, applied through a moment arm could be expressed as torque, which in turn could be related to drive horsepower and drive shaft rpm. Thus, say, a 1hp drive at 1 rpm would require 5252.00 Ib-ft of torque - in this case from spring tension applied (as leverage) over a moment arm. By extrapolation, a 1hp output delivered at 50 rpm would require, or equate to, a more manageable (or modest in terms of spring tension) 105.04 Ib-ft of applied torque. Component List

10 spring arrangement

11 leaf spring

12 ram (actuator)

13 ram connector

14 controller

15 pump

16 oil reservoir

17 axle

18 differential

19 wheel

21 multistage ram

22 adjustable connector

23 accumulator

24 clutch

25 vehicle chassis

26 hydraulic fluid circuit

27 regulator

28 space frame

29 frame mounting point

31 spring linkage

32 bag wall springs

33 stiffener ribs

34 spiral spring

35 fluid actuator

36 longitudinal spring

37 piston cylinder

38 piston

39 piston/cylinder combination

41 fluid bag

42 flow connector

43 hydro-pneumatic reservoir

44 abrasion resistant layer

45 liner

46 cable

47 actuator

48 motor/generator

51 chain mail mesh

52 chain mail mesh spring

53 tensioner

54 bungee

61 test rig

62 hydraulic controller

63 displays

64 external pump/drive connection point

65 frame

66 mesh cover

67 frame bracing

68 legs

69 sack truck

71 deformable frame member 72 handle

73 transport wheels

81 tyre

82 bag cell

91 (pedal control) car / go kart