Abstract: A brake system for a vehicle includes a brake unit, a master cylinder, an accumulator, and a manifold configurable to direct brake fluid pressure generated by the master cylinder to the accumulator or to the brake unit. A solenoid valve can be used to hydraulically align the manifold. The brake system can be used as an adjunct or supplement to a vehicle's primary service brake system.

Abstract: A suspension system for a wheeled vehicle includes hydraulic actuators associated with each of the vehicle's wheels, a hydraulic pump, a hydraulic accumulator, a compressible hydraulic fluid, and a hydraulic manifold including control valves that open and close to control the hydraulic fluid flow and pressure to each of the hydraulic actuators. The control valves are regulated by a control system including a processor running an algorithm that receives data from switches and sensors providing information regarding the vehicle's state and mode of intended use or storage.

Abstract: A two piece wheel hub assembly includes a hub cartridge assembly and a vehicle-mounted carrier. The cartridge assembly can be readily attached to and removed from the carrier without removal of the carrier from the vehicle.

Abstract: A wheel assembly for connection to an onboard tire inflation device includes an inboard rim part, an outboard rim part, a rim base on at least one of the parts and a wheel mounting portion. The wheel mounting portion includes a first passageway extending from an inner opening in the wheel mounting portion to an opening in the rim base. An adapter is mounted to the wheel mounting portion of the wheel and extends at least partially into the inner opening of the wheel in one embodiment, the adapter includes second and third passageways, a circumferential groove in communication with the third passageway, and a valve seat. A valve is mounted to the valve seat. The adapter may include a spindle seat, and the other end of the second passageway opposite the valve seat terminates in an opening in the spindle seat. A seal member may be located in an annular groove formed in the spindle seat around the opening.

Abstract: A control arm used as a suspension link within a vehicle suspension system has two similar members. Each member has a substantially W shaped cross section and circular endplates. The endplates are coupled together with bushings that include a compressible member. During normal loading, this bushing arrangement keeps the two members spaced apart. This allows each member to bend and flex when subjected to longitudinal forces. As transverse loading occurs, the two members are caused to move together, and eventually abut one another. This abutment greatly increases the overall strength of the control arm, allowing it to withstand severe transverse forces without buckling.