Having Specific End Connection Patents (Class 267/260)
  • Patent number: 11780679
    Abstract: A vibratory conveyor includes a feed tray, an electromagnetic linear actuator and a movable drive train interconnecting the feed tray and the electromagnetic linear actuator such that the electromagnetic linear actuator will move the feed tray during energization of the electromagnetic linear actuator. A sensor assembly is positioned to detect movement of the electromagnetic linear actuator. A controller connected to receive an output of the sensor assembly and connected to control energization of electromagnetic linear actuator, wherein the controller is configured to adjust energization of the electromagnetic linear actuator based upon the output of the sensor assembly. A vibratory conveyor in which the movable drive train includes at least one parallel spring element therealong is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2023
    Assignee: BLUE SKY VENTURES (ONTARIO) INC.
    Inventors: Guillaume Savoie-Lavigueur, Simon Lajoie, Alexandre Lebel, Tim Beaudoin-Wallace, Mathieu Lafortune
  • Patent number: 11603898
    Abstract: A first shock isolator is provided that includes an axial compression element, a first disc spring, a disc spring system, and an annular stand-off. The first disc spring has a non-linear load-deflection response. The disc spring system is configured to be deflected by the first disc spring and has a linear load-deflection response. A second shock isolator is provided that includes an axial compression element, first and second disc springs and corresponding first and second annular stand-offs. The first and second disc springs have non-linear load-deflection responses. The first and second annular stand-offs hold the first disc and second disc springs in a spaced apart parallel configuration. The second disc spring is configured to be deflected by the first disc spring. The first and second shock isolators exhibit first and second combined load-deflection curves that include a constant load region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2023
    Assignee: Composite Technology Concepts, LLC
    Inventor: Terrence Lee Schneider
  • Patent number: 11565565
    Abstract: An overload suspension system configured for operative engagement to a vehicle having a first leaf spring and second leaf spring to provide auxiliary support to the vehicle when overloaded. A first control arm attached to a first torsion bar has a distal end positioned a separation distance from the first leaf spring. A second control arm attached to the second control arm has a distal end positioned substantially the same separation distance from the second leaf spring. The suspension system operates as an auxiliary suspension only when added weight to the vehicle deflects both leaf springs to contact a respective one of the control arms, thereby preserving the ride and suspension characteristics of the vehicle when the added weight is not present.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2023
    Inventor: Mark Brendan Newhan
  • Patent number: 11358426
    Abstract: An X-shaped spring device for a transportation vehicle wheel suspension having for each wheel side a first leaf spring and a second leaf spring made of fiber-reinforced plastics material and arranged one above the other. The first leaf spring is supported at the wheel side with one end and the second leaf spring is supported at the vehicle structure side with one end, and a first securing device on which the first leaf spring and the second leaf spring are joined and clamped, and which has a bearing for pivotable bearing at the vehicle structure side. The first securing devices of both wheel sides are connected to each other to provide a stabilizer action by using a spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2021
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2022
    Inventors: Vicky Rosenmeyer, Sierk Fiebig, Michael Schiewek, Florian Glaubitz, Stefan Wolf, Ronald Bartz
  • Patent number: 11124037
    Abstract: An overload suspension system configured for operative engagement to a vehicle having a first leaf spring and second leaf spring to provide auxiliary support to the vehicle when overloaded. A first control arm attached to a first torsion bar has a distal end positioned a separation distance from the first leaf spring. A second control arm attached to the second control arm has a distal end positioned substantially the same separation distance from the second leaf spring. The suspension system operates as an auxiliary suspension only when added weight to the vehicle deflects both leaf springs to contact a respective one of the control arms, thereby preserving the ride and suspension characteristics of the vehicle when the added weight is not present.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2021
    Inventor: Mark Brendan Newhan
  • Patent number: 11090995
    Abstract: The invention relates to a suspension system of a vehicle axle, comprising: a leaf spring (11); a rear attachment device (24) configured to be secured to a vehicle frame (2) and comprising two parallel walls (40) spaced apart along a transverse direction by a distance (d). A rear end portion (14) of the leaf spring (11) is received in the rear attachment device (24), between said walls (40), and is capable of sliding longitudinally relative to the rear attachment device. The leaf spring rear end portion (14) has a first width (w1) which is smaller than the distance (d), and the leaf spring (11) has a second width (w2) which is greater than the distance (d), at least in a blocking portion (30) of the leaf spring (11) located forward of the rear end portion (14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2021
    Assignee: VOLVO TRUCK CORPORATION
    Inventors: Michel Herve, Stéphane Brun
  • Patent number: 11034204
    Abstract: A vehicle suspension having a first load-bearing component assembly and a second load-bearing component assembly. The first and second load bearing component assemblies are adapted to be transversely positioned across from each other on a vehicle chassis. A directionally-dependent heave spring assembly is adapted to be transversely secured to a vehicle chassis, the heave spring assembly is coupled to the first load-bearing component assembly and to the second load-bearing component assembly and exhibits resiliency in opposition to upward vertical movement of both wheel hub assemblies relative to their rest states, and exhibits substantially no resiliency in opposition to downward vertical movement of both wheel assemblies relative to their rest states.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2021
    Assignee: Auto IP LLC
    Inventors: Paolo Tiramani, Kyle Denman
  • Patent number: 9724975
    Abstract: A holding element for a spring, having a spring fastening area (10) for fastening the leaf spring (2) to the holding element (5) and a wheel carrier fastening area (9) for fastening a wheel carrier (4) to the leaf spring (2). The holding element (5) has a deformation zone (23) through which webs and openings extend for transmission of forces from the spring fastening area (10) to the wheel carrier fastening area (9), such that the webs (S2.1, S2:2, S3.1, S3.2) and the openings (A1, A2, A3) are formed mirror-symmetrically relative to the longitudinal axis (L) of the holding element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2017
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Stefan Krahn, Thomas Rupflin
  • Patent number: 9446646
    Abstract: A spring seat is provided for incorporation into a vehicle suspension system having an axle and a leaf spring. The spring seat includes a seat portion and a spring mounting portion associated with an upper end of the seat portion. The spring mounting portion is configured to accommodate a portion of the leaf spring and includes an upper surface. The upper surface defines a plurality of bores, with at least one of the bores being internally threaded and receiving at least a portion of an externally threaded mechanical fastener. Alternatively (or additionally), the axle may include a body, with at least one of the bores of the spring mounting portion of the spring seat being at least partially positioned directly above the body of the axle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2016
    Assignee: Hendrickson USA, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Michael P. Bloink, Damon E. Dilworth, Paul D. Elwood
  • Patent number: 8973933
    Abstract: A suspension device for suspension of an axle by an intermediate portion of a single leaf spring has first restriction device which restricts, upon breakage of the leaf spring at a position behind the intermediate portion of the spring, the rear portion of the leaf spring from tilting downwardly relative to a shackle, and a second restriction device for restriction of the shackle from pivotally moving backward beyond a predetermined angle. The first restriction device is constituted by a stopper plate on the shackle for support of the rear portion of the leaf spring from below upon breakage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Assignees: Hino Motors, Ltd., NHK Spring Co., Ltd., Horikiri, Inc.
    Inventors: Mitsuru Enomoto, Mamoru Akeda, Nobuhiro Shibuya
  • Patent number: 8925909
    Abstract: In a leaf spring arrangement for a chassis of a motor vehicle, a leaf spring includes multiple layers made of a glass fiber composite plastic, a reinforcement made of a carbon composite plastic and being disposed between an upper and a lower one of the layers, and a core made of a different material than the reinforcement and being disposed between the upper and lower layers, wherein the reinforcement is arranged along a longitudinal a side of the core. The leaf spring is coupled at its center region to an axle of the motor vehicle by a center connection and to the vehicle body by bodywork connections, wherein the leaf spring is tilted by an angle relative to the vertical axis of the motor vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: Benteler SGL GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Rodscha Drabon, Ulrich Mueller, Peter Stastny
  • Patent number: 8919795
    Abstract: A suspension for a vehicle having a chassis rail and a longitudinal axle arranged substantially orthogonal thereto. The vehicle suspension has a primary spring, which may be a leaf spring having a first end for pivotally coupling to the chassis of the vehicle at a first primary pivot coupling, and a distal second end for pivotally coupling to the chassis of the vehicle at a second primary pivot coupling. The primary spring can be a coil spring. A secondary leaf spring has a first end for pivotally coupling to the chassis of the vehicle at a secondary pivot coupling, and a second end for coupling to the axle. The longitudinal configuration of the secondary leaf spring is arranged to be angularly displaced with respect to the longitudinal configuration of the primary leaf spring. The first primary pivot coupling and the secondary pivot coupling are arranged to be substantially coplanar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Rassini, S.A. de C.V.
    Inventor: James Andrew Juriga
  • Patent number: 8882120
    Abstract: A suspension for a vehicle having a chassis rail and a longitudinal axle arranged substantially orthogonal thereto. The vehicle suspension has a primary air-responsive spring that couples between the chassis and the axle of the vehicle. The primary spring can be a coil spring that surrounds an air helper spring. A secondary leaf spring has a first end for pivotally coupling to the chassis of the vehicle at a secondary pivot coupling, and a second end for coupling to the axle. The longitudinal configuration of the secondary leaf spring can be arranged to be angularly displaced with respect to a chassis rail of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Assignee: Sanluis Rassini International, Inc.
    Inventors: James Andrew Juriga, Slawomir M. Zieleniec, Graham R. Brookes
  • Publication number: 20140167339
    Abstract: A holder (5) for a spring (2) which has a spring fastening area (10) for fastening the spring (2) to the holder (5) and a wheel carrier fastening area (9) for fastening a wheel carrier (4) to the spring. The holder (5) further has a deformable zone (23) for transmitting force from the spring fastening area (10) to the wheel carrier fastening area (9).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2012
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Applicant: ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AG
    Inventors: Volker Wagner, Gabriele Fruhmann, Stefan Lehmkuhl, Arnold Middelkampf, Jorg Brandt, Holger Hoeckmann, Uwe Steinkamp, Norbert Schmudde, Martin Rattay
  • Publication number: 20140151945
    Abstract: In an arrangement for holding a first fastening element and a second fastening element on an axle element for an axle of a motor vehicle, in particular of a utility vehicle, the first fastening element arranged on a first side of the axle element and intended to support a spring mechanism of the axle is held on the axle element. The second fastening element is arranged on a second side of the axle element facing away from the first side and is used to support a bracket engaging, at least partially, around the axle element and intended for fastening the spring mechanism on the axle element is held on the axle element. At least one of the fastening elements is joined to the axle element by a welding rivet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2012
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Applicant: Daimler AG
    Inventors: Matthias Berner, Tycho Eulenstein, Andreas Ottmueller, Rudolf Reinhardt, Petra Schulz, Alexander Theierl, Lena Thome
  • Patent number: 8662511
    Abstract: A suspension device for suspension of an axle 2 by an intermediate portion of a single leaf spring 5 has first restriction means which restricts, upon breakage of the leaf spring 5 at a position behind the intermediate portion of the spring, the rear portion of the leaf spring 5 from tilting downwardly relative to a shackle 6, and a second restriction means (retainer pawl 13) for restriction of the shackle 6 from pivotally moving backward beyond a predetermined angle. The first restriction means is constituted by a bush 12 with projections 12b which is arranged at a connection between the shackle 6 and the rear end of the leaf spring 5 for integral rotation with the rear end of the leaf spring 5 and engages with the shackle 6 at a predetermined rotary position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignees: Hino Motors, Ltd., NHK Spring Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Mitsuru Enomoto, Naoshi Sato, Yoshiharu Sugawara, Nobuhiro Shibuya
  • Patent number: 8573568
    Abstract: A leaf spring attachment for connecting a leaf spring to an axle or frame of a motor vehicle includes a clamp to maintain the leaf spring under tension between elastomer bodies. At least one of the elastomer bodies is connected to the leaf spring by a material joint. The clamp is split to define an upper clamp member and a lower clamp member in opposition to the upper clamp member. The upper clamp member has a U-shaped configuration to embrace a topside and opposite length sides of the leaf spring. The lower clamp member includes a plurality of retention plates in spaced-apart relationship for connection with the axle by material joint. Screw fasteners are provided to secure legs of the upper clamp member to the lower clamp member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Benteler Automobiltechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Thomas Henksmeier, Erik Hochapfel, Waldemar Bera
  • Patent number: 8500108
    Abstract: Disc springs that are resistant to premature failure caused by friction wear, disc spring assemblies and disc spring stacks including the disc springs, and methods of making and using said assemblies and stacks are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Inventor: John E. Rode
  • Patent number: 8376380
    Abstract: An improved traction device for a motor vehicle provides a rear support assembly positioned proximate to a rear axle and an adjacent portion of a leaf spring and a front rocker support assembly. The front rocker support assembly includes a front leaf spring bracket assembly attached to a selected portion of the leaf spring between the axle and the front leaf spring mount, a rocker pivotally attached to the front leaf spring bracket assembly, and a rocker head connected to an end of the rocker for engaging a lower surface of the leaf spring to limit pivotal movement of the front rocker support assembly relative to the front end of the leaf spring, and. An adjustable rigid link extends between the rear support assembly and the front rocker support assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Inventor: Kim H. Smith
  • Patent number: 8322500
    Abstract: A shock absorber housing for a shock absorber of a vehicle comprises a tube, which has a tubular wall, and an attaching element joined onto the tubular wall, the attaching element determining a critical force introduction area of an introduction of a force into the tubular wall, the tube in a longitudinal direction being built up from a first tube section having a first tubular wall and at least a second tube section having a second tubular wall, the first tube section and the second tube section being joined together by their ends facing one another. The first tube section and the second tube section are joined together with a tubular wall overlap of the first and second tubular wall, which overlap extends in a longitudinal direction, the tubular wall overlap being situated in the critical force introduction area of the attaching element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Progress-Werk Oberkirch AG
    Inventor: Johannes Obrecht
  • Patent number: 8006990
    Abstract: An improved suspension that may be used in any dynamically loaded beam structure, such as a trailer chassis. Specifically, an improved spring hanger and method for attachment are discussed, in which the improved spring hanger is welded to the web of a support beam, where stresses are lower, as opposed to the bottom flange thereof. Methods are provided for welding the spring hanger to said beam alongside as well as in contact with existing, transverse support members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Reinke Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventors: John E. Davis, Mark R. Virus, Daniel O. Seacat
  • Patent number: 7918478
    Abstract: An equalizer for a suspension system for a trailer is configured to absorb or dampen the harsh shocks or vibrations coming off of the leaf springs proximate to a center frame hangar, thus allowing for a “softer” ride. The equalizer utilizes one or two independent equalizer arm assemblies or castings which are each rotatably secured within the equalizer. Each equalizer arm assembly or casting is operatively associated with one of the leaf springs such that upon upward movement of the leaf spring, the associated equalizer arm assembly or casting is forced to rotate within the equalizer and to deform a shock absorber provided within the equalizer. The shock absorber, upon the deformation thereof, absorbs the harsh shocks or vibrations which would otherwise normally be transferred from the leaf springs, to the equalizer, and thus to the frame of the trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Assignee: Lippert Components Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: E. Dale Fenton
  • Patent number: 7900941
    Abstract: A suspension system for providing a suspension between wheels and a frame of a vehicle is provided. The system includes an arm beam pivotally mounted to the frame at its proximate end and coupled at its distal end to a guiding assembly enabling the arm beam to pivot in a vertical direction and to be restrained in lateral directions perpendicular to the vertical direction. The arm beam includes: (a) a spring and damper assembly near its distal end for providing a dampened resilient mount for the suspension; (b) a wheel axle beam coupled to the arm beam for bearing a load borne by the wheels transmitted directly in-line with a central axis of the spring and damper assembly; and (c) a stabilizer coupled between the arm beam and the frame, the stabilizer resisting a lateral rolling motion of the vehicle. The stabilizer is included between the proximate end of the arm beams and their damper and spring assemblies for rendering the system more compact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Volvo Lastvagnar AB
    Inventor: Andreas Lundmark
  • Publication number: 20100127444
    Abstract: A suspension system suitable for a trailer incorporates a device for limiting rotation of an axle received in an eye of a leaf spring. The leaf spring has a wrapped end defining the eye extending transverse to the leaf spring with a gap left between the leaf spring and the wrapped end thereof. The rotation limiting device is fixed to the axle and features a sleeve having a peripheral wall extending circumferentially about the axle inside the eye of the leaf spring and a tab projecting outward from the peripheral wall of the sleeve and extending in a direction parallel to the axis. The tab projects into the gap left between the leaf spring and the wrapped end thereof to block rotation of the axle and sleeve relative to the wrapped end of the leaf spring. Friction fit, adhesive, welding or multi-piece hardware fixing of the spring is avoided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2009
    Publication date: May 27, 2010
    Inventor: Michael F. Glass
  • Patent number: 7722065
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: ArvinMeritor Technology, LLC
    Inventors: David K. Platner, Arnett R. Weber, Rajesh J. Somnay, Holly Ann Giangrande, Tomaz Dopico Varela, Brian J. Knouff, Benjamin R. Reineck, Norman D. Austin, John E. Mutzner
  • Patent number: 7712754
    Abstract: A leaf spring assembly for a vehicle having a frame and an axle. The leaf spring assembly includes a first leaf spring and a trailing arm having first and second ends. The first end of the trailing arm adapted to be coupled to the frame to form a trailing arm attachment point. The first leaf spring is disposed beneath the trailing arm and includes a width defining a lateral direction and first and second ends defining a longitudinal direction. The first end of the first leaf spring being concentrically wound with the first end of the trailing arm and adapted to be attached to the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: PACCAR Inc
    Inventor: Roger P. Penzotti
  • Patent number: 7597310
    Abstract: A leaf spring connection assembly (200) for coupling a leaf spring (202) to a vehicle is disclosed. The assembly includes a leaf spring having a spring eye (210) and a vehicle bracket (204) having a pair of recesses (214). The assembly further includes a pin (206) disposed through the spring eye. The pin includes end portions (224) which extend outward of the spring eye and which are at least partially received by the recesses of the vehicle bracket. Each of the end portions includes an annular groove (226). The assembly additionally includes a fastener (228) at least partially received in one of the annular grooves and coupled to the vehicle bracket to sandwich the pin between the vehicle bracket and the fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: PACCAR Inc
    Inventor: Robert J Solomon
  • Patent number: 7537226
    Abstract: A light truck support lift which is positioned between the existing leaf spring eyelet and the truck body which incorporates fastener adjustable members for varying the height of the lift.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Inventor: Hector Collazo
  • Patent number: 7520517
    Abstract: A leaf spring assembly features a stack of leaf springs having mounting couplings attached at opposite ends. The mounting couplings each have first and second mounting elements clamped together about at least a main spring and a safety spring. The safety spring has retaining elements at opposite ends each having an extension portion and a blocking portion. The extension portion extends past the end of the main spring. Here the blocking portion extends generally perpendicularly from the extension portion to block motion of the mounting coupling should failure cause it to be detached from the stack of springs. This ensures that failure does not cause complete separation of the spring stack and mounting couplings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2009
    Assignee: Standens Ltd.
    Inventors: Melvin Svendsen, Donald Stoesz, Marty Boll
  • Publication number: 20080128968
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2006
    Publication date: June 5, 2008
    Inventors: David K. Platner, Arnett R. Weber, Rajesh J. Somnay, Holly Ann Giangrande, Tomaz Dopico Varela, Brian J. Knouff, Benjamin R. Reineck, Norman D. Austin, John E. Mutzner
  • Patent number: 7360778
    Abstract: A traction device for a motor vehicle provides a rear support assembly positioned proximate to a rear axle and an adjacent portion of a leaf spring and a front rocker support assembly. The front rocker support assembly includes a front leaf spring bracket assembly attached to the front leaf spring eye, a pivot stop extending across the upper surface of the leaf spring at a predetermined distance rearward from the leaf spring eye for engaging an upper surface of the leaf spring to limit pivotal movement of the front rocker support assembly relative to the front end of the leaf spring, and a rocker pivotally attached to the front leaf spring bracket assembly. An adjustable rigid link extends between the rear support assembly and the front rocker support assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2008
    Inventor: Kim H. Smith
  • Patent number: 7204500
    Abstract: A bracket assembly for mounting a control arm, such as a leaf spring, of a vehicle suspension. The bracket assembly includes a first, relatively more rigid member including a first mounting flange and a second, relatively more flexible member including a second mounting flange. The second member is fixed to the first member such that the first mounting flange and the second mounting flange form a fork that accepts a control arm end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2007
    Assignee: Volvo Trucks North America Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas Steven Hunt
  • Patent number: 6991223
    Abstract: A suspension system includes a composite leaf spring having an arcuate segment that is located between a retaining pin and a bumper. The retaining pin includes a shank surrounded by a resilient tube. The bumper is located adjacent a rear wall of the bracket opposite the retaining pin. The bumper includes an arcuate face to engage the outer arc of the arcuate segment while the pin is at least partially surrounded by the arcuate segment. The end of the composite leaf spring is thereby securely yet resiliently retained within the front leaf spring attachment system without penetrating fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Assignee: ArvinMeritor Technology LLC
    Inventors: David K. Platner, Ramin Rezakhanlou, James Trotter
  • Patent number: 6941634
    Abstract: A method of attaching an axle of a golf cart to a leaf spring of the golf cart, comprising the steps of aligning the leaf spring adjacent the axle and a bottom plate, inserting an end of a fastener initially through a first aperture associated with the axle and subsequently through a second aperture of the bottom plate and securing the leaf spring between the axle and the bottom plate by securing the fastener at the bottom plate, enabling improved access for assembly and service.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: Textron Inc.
    Inventor: Bryan D. Bigsby
  • Publication number: 20030222387
    Abstract: A suspension includes wheel supporting members for supporting wheels; a first leaf spring having both end portions each disposed on an upper side of one of the wheel supporting members; a second leaf spring extending along the first leaf spring; a pivot for supporting the second leaf spring on a vehicle body; a spacer provided between the first and second leaf springs; sliders fixed on the second leaf spring but being in slidable contact with the first leaf spring; and receiving pieces interposed between the both end portions and the wheel supporting members. Each of the receiving pieces includes an engaging portion for engaging with one of the both end portions. Each of the receiving pieces includes an elastic member capable of deforming to follow a relative displacement between the first leaf spring and the wheel supporting member in the vehicle width direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2003
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventor: Kenji Yokoyama
  • Patent number: 6450488
    Abstract: A plastic isolator pad having a top wall and opposing side walls depending from the top wall. The isolator pad is typically used for supporting an outboard end of a leaf spring. The isolator pad typically includes a plurality of webs which extend from a bottom surface of the top wall and a plurality of stiffeners which extend between the webs. Also usually provided are opposing ear-like projections which extend laterally from the top wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Assignee: Research & Manufacturing Corp.
    Inventor: Gerald Michael Joseph
  • Patent number: 6435485
    Abstract: A fiberglass composite monoleaf bow spring for use in a vehicle chassis system capable of multi-linear response when compressed. The fiberglass composite monoleaf bow spring extends longitudinally below a vehicle frame and is secured at each end of the vehicle frame typically using a pair of pinned end attachments and is secured in the middle to an axle. The spring has a central upwardly curved region introduced between two downwardly curved regions that are introduced between two more upwardly curved regions. The spring can be made using either a pre-preg process or three-dimensional weaving process. By varying the curvature either the upwardly curved regions or downwardly curved regions, or by varying the length and width of the bow spring, the rate of displacement along each portion of the multi-linear deflection response curve may be controlled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Assignee: Visteon Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Giovanni Greco
  • Patent number: 6354574
    Abstract: A vehicular leaf spring tip insert is provided. The insert includes a pad portion providing a liner between adjacent leaf spring tips, at least one shank portion extending from the pad portion to a free end, the shank portion having a generally axial bore, the shank portion also having a protuberance extending outward therefrom with a leaf spring engagement surface facing toward the pad portion at an axial distance therefrom, the protuberance being dimensionally adapted and configured so that the protuberance is compressed radially inward sufficiently to be received through the tip opening upon insertion of the shank portion therethrough, and a pin for insertion into the shank bore, the pin retaining the shank protuberance in a position to extend the protuberance radially outward to enable the shank leaf spring engagement surface to become engageable with the leaf spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2002
    Assignee: Oxford Suspension, Inc.
    Inventors: James L. Oliver, Richard F. Pierman, Venkata Balanethiram, James W. Mailey
  • Publication number: 20020015616
    Abstract: In a coupling of an axle member to a vehicle leaf spring or a longitudinal link, the axle member is coupled to a vehicle leaf spring or a longitudinal link with spring/damper elements therebetween. Arranged between the axle member and the vehicle leaf spring or the longitudinal link are at least two spring/damper elements, which, in the direction of travel, are arranged in front of and behind the section of the axle member to which the leaf spring or the longitudinal link is coupled. The stiffness of the spring/damper elements is greater in the horizontal directions than in the vertical direction. Vibrations of the body of a vehicle with a rigid axle that are caused by the vehicle drive, irregularities in the roadway and unbalance of the wheels are minimized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2001
    Publication date: February 7, 2002
    Inventors: Kai-Ulrich Machens, Thomas F. Schreiber
  • Patent number: 6311960
    Abstract: A vehicular leaf spring tip insert is provided. The insert includes a pad portion providing a liner between adjacent leaf spring tips, at least one shank portion extending from the pad portion to a free end, the shank portion having a generally axial bore, the shank portion also having a protuberance extending outward therefrom with a leaf spring engagement surface facing toward the pad portion at an axial distance therefrom, the protuberance being dimensionally adapted and configured so that the protuberance is compressed radially inward sufficiently to be received through the tip opening upon insertion of the shank portion therethrough, and a pin for insertion into the shank bore, the pin being formed from a semi-liquid material poured into said shank axial bore or material from the protuberance that has been thermally deformed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Oxford Suspension, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard F. Pierman, Venkata Balanethiram
  • Patent number: 6247689
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for mounting a leaf spring suspension system to a vehicle is provided comprising three spring pins, two shackles, four wear washers, and four fastening bolts, wherein one spring pin and two fastening bolts mount and secure a first end of the leaf spring suspension system to the vehicle and two spring pins, two shackles, and two fastening bolts mount and secure a second end of the leaf spring suspension system to the vehicle. Washers are located between the shackles and the leaf spring, as well as between the shackles and the suspension bracket, the washers being made of a material having a hardness less than that of an adjacent component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2001
    Assignee: Paccar Inc.
    Inventors: Carol S. Haesle, Douglas K. Gunter, James W. Saunders
  • Patent number: 6209897
    Abstract: An assembly for mounting a leaf spring suspension system to a vehicle. The assembly includes an arrangement of a plurality of shackles that movably secure at least a rear portion of a leaf spring, which carries an axle of the vehicle, to a frame of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2001
    Assignee: Paccar INC
    Inventors: Robert L. Bundy, David L. Stoor
  • Patent number: 6082750
    Abstract: The closed joint leaf spring mounting assembly for a mobile vehicle with a body and at least two axles may have a suspension bracket configured to be permanently fixed upon an axle housing for enclosing one of the axles and to include a plurality of vertical throughbores therein, a leaf spring having conformed surface to be congruous with areas of the suspension bracket including the throughbores, and including vertical throughbores therein which align with and form a continuation of the throughbores in the bracket, and a plurality of connectors, such as cap screws, for engagement within the aligned throughbores of the spring end and bracket for securing the structures together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2000
    Assignee: Navistar International Transportation Corp
    Inventors: Michael B. Merkler, Mark N. Sanders, Vish N. Gurudutt, David C. Merriman
  • Patent number: 6062549
    Abstract: A vehicle spring stabilizer has a leaf spring with a connector pivotally secured to each end eye thereof, the connector in the form of a rigid yoke to embrace a vehicle spring assembly and having anti-friction structure in the form of a sleeve on a spacer mounted on a bolt connecting the arms of the yoke.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Inventor: Antonette I Lamberti
  • Patent number: 6029987
    Abstract: A front axle for a motor vehicle is connected with a leaf spring mounted transversely to the vehicle. The spring is mounted on a cross member by elastic bearings located on both sides of a lengthwise central axis of the vehicle, and connected by these bearings to the vehicle body. A leaf spring is connected at its free ends with an A-arm and is mounted pivotably on a cross member secured to the body. Between the two pivot bearings of the A-arm in the cross member, the leaf spring is secured elastically in a spring bearing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: Dr. Ing. H.C.F. Porsche AG
    Inventors: Martin Hoffman, Walter Schaible
  • Patent number: 6019384
    Abstract: A suspension system for a vehicle includes a frame, a wheel support member, a leaf spring secured to the wheel support member, a first connector for first pivotally connecting one end of the leaf spring to the frame, a torsion spring having a central shaft, an outer housing and an elastomer disposed between the central shaft and the housing, and a lever for pivotally interconnecting the central shaft with the other end of the leaf spring. The torsion spring is located between the leaf spring and the frame so that compression of the leaf spring causes the lever to be displaced rotationally toward the vehicle frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2000
    Assignee: The B. F. Goodrich Company
    Inventor: Darren Gregory Finck
  • Patent number: 5992550
    Abstract: A bonnet or hood which is pivotable to open and closed conditions over a vehicle frame. A fastening portion fastenable to the vehicle frame, on which the bonnet is pivotable. A bent leaf spring rotatably connected between the fastening portion and the bonnet and urging the bonnet open. A slotted guide for controlling the extent of the opening of the bonnet. Elastic bushings at the various connections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Assignee: Scania CV AB
    Inventor: Mats Gronlund
  • Patent number: 5938221
    Abstract: A leaf spring for use in a suspension system is disclosed which includes an eye for attachment with the frame member on one side of a vehicle chassis. A front cantilever portion of the leaf spring extends from the eye to a predetermined point of the leaf spring. A rear cantilever portion extends from the predetermined point to its own endpoint which is positioned in close proximity to the end of the leaf spring. The front cantilever portion of the leaf spring has a relatively high spring rate and the rear cantilever portion has a relatively low spring rate to provide comfortable riding conditions for the vehicle and roll stability for the suspension system while eliminating the practical necessity of implementing auxiliary roll stabilizers within the suspension system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Assignee: The Boler Company
    Inventor: William Wilson
  • Patent number: 5509684
    Abstract: In a vehicle having a chassis, an axle and a pair of laterally spaced torque arm assemblies connecting the axle to the chassis and arranged longitudinally of the vehicle, each torque arm assembly includes a composite resin/glass fiber arm which has one end pivotally attached to the a chassis and which is attached to the axle at a first bolt by an end fitting. A clamp assembly is clamped to the arm along a length of the arm spaced from the end fitting and is fastened to the axle at a second bolt spaced from the first bolt. Cushioning between the clamp assembly and the arm is provided by rubber pads. The two torque arm assemblies produce an anti-roll effect by the bending of each arm in opposite directions during cornering or traversing uneven surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 23, 1996
    Assignee: Rover Group Limited
    Inventors: Nigel S. Yarrow, Neil F. Milburn, Malcolm J. Burgess
  • Patent number: 5507516
    Abstract: A vehicle suspension system, comprising suspension means, anti-roll means capable of rotational movement due to deflection of the suspension means during straight axle static bounce motion thereof, and counteracting means arranged to act between said anti-roll means and the vehicle frame or chassis during straight axle static bounce motion of the suspension means, to at least partially counteract any consequential rotational movement of the anti-roll means, thereby applying a couple or moment to, and as a result, altering the deflection and rate of said suspension means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 16, 1996
    Assignee: Detroit Steel Products, Inc.
    Inventor: John B. Reast