Leaf Spring Stress Peening Method and Apparatus

Author:  Gerold Lienert
Source:  US Patent 4,337,632
Doc ID:  1980043
Year of Publication:  1980
Abstract:  
A leaf spring stress peening apparatus is composed of a first conveyor capable of transporting a plurality of leaf springs in an unstressed position. A second endless conveyor is provided to transport a plurality of leaf spring deflecting elements. The first and second conveyors are positioned so that the leaf springs on the first conveyor are deflected by the elements on the second conveyor in a shot peening area. A blast wheel is located in the shot peening area and is positioned to concentrate shot peening material on the side of the deflected spring which is in tension. The deflecting elements disengage the spring as it leaves the shot peening area.