Abstract: A leaf spring for a vehicle suspension is formed from a composite material and includes first and second ends that are longitudinally spaced apart from each other. A resilient element is attached to at least one of the first and second ends. The resilient element includes at least one hole that receives a connecting element. The resilient element and the connecting element cooperate to attach the leaf spring to a vehicle structure. In one example, the resilient element comprises a rubber block that is bonded to the leaf spring. In another example, the resilient element comprises a longitudinally orientated bushing that is inserted through a thickness of the leaf spring.

Abstract: A leaf spring for a vehicle suspension is formed from a composite material and includes a central portion to be supported by an axle and at least one free end that extends from the central portion in a longitudinal direction. The free end is coupled to a vehicle structure via a slider bracket. A contact element is mounted to the slider bracket to contact an upper surface of the free end to accommodate vertical forces. The free end is slidably movable relative to the contact element along a longitudinal axis and is pivotable relative to the contact element about a lateral axis.

Abstract: A leaf spring for a vehicle suspension is formed from a composite material and includes first and second ends that are longitudinally spaced apart from each other. A resilient element is attached to at least one of the first and second ends. The resilient element includes at least one hole that receives a connecting element. The resilient element and the connecting element cooperate to attach the leaf spring to a vehicle structure. In one example, the resilient element comprises a rubber block that is bonded to the leaf spring. In another example, the resilient element comprises a longitudinally orientated bushing that is inserted through a thickness of the leaf spring.

Abstract: A flexible fiber reinforced composite rebar structure includes a plurality of continuous fibers embedded within a thermoplastic resin. The rebar structure has an elliptical cross sectional shape with an aspect ratio of about two to one and a twist with a twist pitch of about 30 cm. The thermoplastic resin matrix enables the rebar structure to be bent in the field by the application of heat to soften the structure and thereafter cooled to return to a rigid state.

Abstract: A leaf spring for a vehicle suspension is formed from a composite material and includes at least one spring end with a curved recess. A bushing assembly is attached to the curved recess. The bushing assembly includes a mounting component and a bushing that is attached to the mounting component such that the leaf spring can be pivotally attached to a vehicle frame. The mounting component is formed around an outer periphery of the curved recess to secure the mounting component to the leaf spring such that the bushing is received within the curved recess.