And Adjustment For Varying Spring Loading Patents (Class 267/277)
  • Patent number: 11505028
    Abstract: Provided is a vehicular holding device that, in an ON state, holds a vehicle component in a state where displacement of the vehicle component in an axial direction is restrained, and that, in an OFF state, holds the vehicle component in a state where displacement of the vehicle component in the axial direction is possible. The vehicular holding device includes at least one engagement part, a cam mechanism, and an axial direction restraining part. The at least one engagement part is at a position where the engagement part engages with an engaged part in the ON state, and is at a position where the engagement part is separated from the engaged part in the OFF state. The cam mechanism displaces the at least one engagement part from the OFF-state position to the ON-state position. The axial direction restraining part receives axial-direction force acting on the at least one engagement part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2022
    Assignee: CHUO HATSUJO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Takashi Goto, Hideki Toya, Toshio Kuwayama, Shinsuke Okura
  • Patent number: 10981429
    Abstract: A sway bar system is described. The sway bar system includes a sway bar having a first end and a second end. The sway bar system further includes a first electronically controlled damper link which is coupled to the first end of the sway bar. The first electronically controlled damper link is configured to be coupled a first location of a vehicle. The sway bar system also has a second link which is coupled to the second end of the sway bar. The second link is configured to be coupled a second location of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2021
    Assignee: Fox Factory, Inc.
    Inventors: Philip Tsiaras, Rick Strickland
  • Patent number: 10854398
    Abstract: An operating device includes: a lever rotatable about a rotating axis; a first torsion bar extending in a first direction along the rotating axis; a second torsion bar provided inside the first torsion bar, extending along the rotating axis, coupled to the first torsion bar at a portion located farther in the first direction than the lever, and extending from the portion of coupling with the first torsion bar toward a second direction opposite to the first direction beyond the lever; and a third torsion bar surrounding the second torsion bar, having a tubular shape, coupled to the second torsion bar at a portion located farther in the second direction than the lever, and extending from the portion of coupling with the second torsion bar in the first direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2020
    Assignee: MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Shuichi Tanigaki, Daisuke Fujita
  • Patent number: 10618370
    Abstract: Disclosed is an active roll stabilizer. The active roll stabilizer includes a pair of stabilizer bars installed between wheels and an actuator connected between the pair of stabilizer bars and configured to deliver a rotational force to the pair of stabilizer bars, wherein the actuator includes a motor configured to generate the rotational force; a housing located between the pair of stabilizer bars and inside which the motor is disposed; and an engagement part installed between the housing and at least one of the pair of stabilizer bars and configured to screw-couple and fix one end portion of the at least one of the pair of stabilizer bars to one inner side of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2020
    Assignee: MANDO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Jae Man Seo, Jun Ho Seong
  • Patent number: 10350959
    Abstract: An active roll stabilizer of a motor vehicle including an actuator (8) in the form of a swivel motor arranged so as to rotate about a longitudinal axis of the vehicle. The swivel motor has an essentially cylindrical housing (12) with a cover, first and second stabilizer halves (18, 19) are connected to respective ends of the actuator for the transmission of torque, and a wiring harness (1) has a first end and a second end. The harness includes cables (3, 4, 5) for the transmission of electric power and signals. The first end is connected to the actuator, by way of a plug (2), and the second end is arranged positionally fixed in the vehicle at a cable transfer point (20). The cover forms a dry space and has a plug receiving opening, in its periphery, into which the plug can be inserted, in the radial direction, and secured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2019
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Daniel Pfeiffer, Martin Hoffmann, Boris Heberle
  • Patent number: 10328762
    Abstract: An electric damper for a vehicle may include: a housing body fixed to a vehicle body; a gear bar including a first end coupled to a knuckle of a wheel, and a second end extending into the housing body, with a rack gear provided on the gear bar; a first intersection gear unit installed in a direction intersecting a movement direction of the gear and configured to engage with the rack gear and rotate; a first power transmitting gear unit configured to engage with the first intersection gear unit and rotate, and including a rotating shaft installed parallel to the gear bar; a rotator configured to engage with the first power transmitting gear unit, and provided in a shape enclosing an outer surface of the gear bar; and a stator installed in the housing body at a position facing the rotator and having a magnetic force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: HYUNDAI MOBIS CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Kyung Ryul Park
  • Patent number: 9944148
    Abstract: Anti-roll systems and related methods are disclosed. An example anti-roll system includes a first stabilizer bar having a first end to operatively couple to a first wheel assembly of a vehicle and a second stabilizer bar having a first end to operatively couple to a second wheel assembly of the vehicle. A rotary damper is to couple a second end of the first stabilizer bar and a second end of the second stabilizer bar. A damping characteristic of the rotary damper is to vary based on a driving condition of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2018
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Roberto Villegas Muriel, Jordi Vidauri, Adrian Rueda
  • Patent number: 9802327
    Abstract: A robot arm increases a plurality of arm sections that are turnably connected. The arm sections include a plurality of links and an actuator section that turns the plurality of links. The actuator section includes: a cylindrical cover provided on an outer surface; a motor that turns the plurality of links; a motor frame included in the motor; a reduction gear that decelerates rotation from the motor and outputs a torque; a collar fixed to the reduction gear; and a wire body including at least one of a wire and a pipe. At least a part of the wire body is housed between a surface including a first small body section formed by the motor frame and the collar and a surface including a second small body section of the cylindrical cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2017
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventors: Daisuke Kirihara, Kazuto Yoshimura
  • Patent number: 9751215
    Abstract: A robot arm increases a plurality of arm sections that are turnably connected. The arm sections include a plurality of links and an actuator section that turns the plurality of links. The actuator section includes: a cylindrical cover provided on an outer surface; a motor that turns the plurality of links; a motor frame included in the motor; a reduction gear that decelerates rotation from the motor and outputs a torque; a collar fixed to the reduction gear; and a wire body including at least one of a wire and a pipe. At least a part of the wire body is housed between a surface including a first small body section formed by the motor frame and the collar and a surface including a second small body section of the cylindrical cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2017
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventors: Daisuke Kirihara, Kazuto Yoshimura
  • Patent number: 9701026
    Abstract: A robot arm increases a plurality of arm sections that are turnably connected. The arm sections include a plurality of links and an actuator section that turns the plurality of links. The actuator section includes: a cylindrical cover provided on an outer surface; a motor that turns the plurality of links; a motor frame included in the motor; a reduction gear that decelerates rotation from the motor and outputs a torque; a collar fixed to the reduction gear; and a wire body including at least one of a wire and a pipe. At least a part of the wire body is housed between a surface including a first small body section formed by the motor frame and the collar and a surface including a second small body section of the cylindrical cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2017
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventors: Daisuke Kirihara, Kazuto Yoshimura
  • Patent number: 9393848
    Abstract: A torsion spring system for a wheel suspension of a motor vehicle includes an actuator that is provided on the vehicle body and variably maintains the torsion spring system under tension, and which acts, via a torsion bar and an output lever, with a biasing force on a wheel suspension element of the wheel suspension. The torsion bar is configured in two parts between the actuator and the output lever and has a first bar part and a second bar part coupled thereto with a spring element connected in between the first and second bar parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2016
    Assignee: AUDI AG
    Inventors: Dominik Mohrlock, Andreas Schindler, Heinrich Beringer, Joachim Schmitt
  • Patent number: 8979080
    Abstract: Various technologies described herein pertain to an adjustable compliance apparatus. The adjustable compliance apparatus includes a shaft, a sleeve element, and a torsion spring. The sleeve element includes a bore there through, where the shaft is positioned through the bore of the sleeve element. Further, the torsion spring includes a plurality of coils, where the shaft is positioned through the plurality of coils. Moreover, the sleeve element is slidable in an axial direction along the shaft between the torsion spring and the shaft. Accordingly, compliance of the adjustable compliance apparatus is adjustable based on a number of the plurality of coils in contact with the sleeve element as positioned along the shaft within the torsion spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Sandia Corporation
    Inventor: Curt Michael Salisbury
  • Publication number: 20140265082
    Abstract: An overhead door torsion spring adjuster having a housing, first and second gears positioned within the housing, and a first shaft coupled with the first gear. The second gear has a base positioned within the housing, a collar that is integral with the base, and an opening that extends through the base and collar. The base engages the first gear. The collar is operable to be coupled with a second shaft that is received by the opening. Preferably, the spring adjuster includes a locking mechanism that is operable to prevent rotation of the first shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: GLEN HEMAN, John Payne, David Payne
  • Patent number: 8525460
    Abstract: An SEA architecture for controlling the torque applied by an SEA that has particular application for controlling the position of a robot link. The SEA architecture includes a motor coupled to one end of an elastic spring and a load coupled to an opposite end of the elastic spring, where the motor drives the load through the spring. The orientation of the shaft of the motor and the load are measured by position sensors. Position signals from the position sensors are sent to an embedded processor that determines the orientation of the load relative to the motor shaft to determine the torque on the spring. The embedded processor receives reference torque signals from a remote controller, and the embedded processor operates a high-speed servo loop about the desired joint torque. The remote controller determines the desired joint torque based on higher order objectives by their impedance or positioning objectives.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignees: GM Global Technology Operations LLC, The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
    Inventors: Matthew J. Reiland, Brian Hargrave, Robert Platt, Muhammad E. Abdallah, Frank Noble Permenter
  • Patent number: 8360448
    Abstract: In a traditional hitched trailer there is no way to adjust the ride height of the trailer. Provided is an angular adjusting mechanism (13) for a suspension system (10) comprising a shaft (12) and a crank arm (20), the shaft (12) having a connecting end (14) connected to the crank arm (20), said angular adjusting mechanism (13) comprising a frusto-comcal shaped surface (16) provided on the connecting end (14) and pointing outwardly from said shaft (12), said surface (16) having an array of first cavities (18) arranged circumferentially, a frusto-comcal bore (22) proximate a first extremity of said crank arm (20), said bore (22) having an array of second cavities (24), said bore (22) being operative to mate with said surface (16) of said connecting end (14), and an interlocking element (30) partly positioned in one of said second cavities (24) and partly positioned in one of said first cavities (18) so as to lock said crank arm (20) at a predetermined angular position with respect to said shaft (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Système Nénuphar Inc.
    Inventor: Yves Lariviere
  • Patent number: 8052161
    Abstract: A wheel suspension for a motor vehicle has a transverse control arm that can be attached to a vehicle body by way of bearings and a spring-elastic torsion bar assembly, and can be rotated about a longitudinal axis. The torsion bar assembly has a body spring that can be attached to the vehicle body with one end, and a transverse control arm spring that is attached to the transverse control arm with one end. The body spring and the transverse control arm spring are coupled with one another at their free ends. The transverse control arm spring and the body spring are coupled with one another by way of a setting element or a releasable connection, whereby the setting element or the releasable connection, respectively, allows rotation of the ends assigned to one another, for setting purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignees: ThyssenKrupp Bilstein Suspension GmbH, ThyssenKrupp Presta München/Esslingen GmbH
    Inventors: Alfred Preukschat, Thomas Brendecke, Luitpold Miller, Siegfried Ellmann
  • Patent number: 8006989
    Abstract: A wheel suspension for a motor vehicle has a transverse control arm that can be attached to a vehicle body by way of bearings and can be rotated about a longitudinal axis, and a body spring configured as a torsion bar spring for absorbing rotational movements of the transverse control arm about the longitudinal axis. The body spring is disposed on the transverse control arm so as to rotate with it, with a first end. An electromechanical actuator for changing the angle of rotation of the body spring is disposed at a second end of the body spring. The wheel suspension has a damping element. The second end of the body spring is connected with a stress relief spring that is configured as a torsion bar spring, disposed coaxially with the body spring, and can be attached to the vehicle body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignees: ThyssenKrupp Bilstein Suspension GmbH, ThyssenKrupp Presta München/Esslingen GmbH
    Inventors: Alfred Preukschat, Thomas Brendecke, Luitpold Miller, Siegfried Ellmann
  • Patent number: 7909339
    Abstract: A vehicle stabilizer bar assembly having a pair of stabilizer bar members that are selectively uncoupled via a clutch. The clutch includes a moving element that can be selectively moved via an actuator to effect the uncoupling of the stabilizer bar members. The actuator is configured to apply a force to the moving element concentrically about the axis along which the moving element translates. The clutch is configured to transmit torque from one of the stabilizer bar members to the other stabilizer bar member concentrically about the axis. A method for operating a vehicle stabilizer bar assembly is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2011
    Assignee: American Axle & Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew F. Pinkos, Todd M. York, Curt D. Gilmore, Gary A. Oliveira, Mark A. Danielsen
  • Patent number: 7832739
    Abstract: A vehicle stabilizer bar assembly having a pair of stabilizer bar members that are selectively uncoupled via a clutch. The clutch includes a moving element that can be selectively moved via an actuator to effect the uncoupling of the stabilizer bar members. The actuator is configured to apply a force to the moving element concentrically about the axis along which the moving element translates. The clutch is configured to transmit torque from one of the stabilizer bar members to the other stabilizer bar member concentrically about the axis. A method for operating a vehicle stabilizer bar assembly is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: American Axle & Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew F. Pinkos, Todd M. York, Curt D. Gilmore, Gary A. Oliveira, Mark A. Danielsen
  • Patent number: 7748721
    Abstract: A supplemental torsion suspension system for a vehicle having primary suspension system is provided along with a method of use thereof. The supplemental system has a rotateable torsion bar and a lever arm extending from the torsion bar for engagement with a control member of the primary suspension system. An actuator is coupled to the torsion bar and is operative to impart selective rotational movement to the torsion bar and the lever arm. A corresponding application of an applied adjustment force is imparted on the member of the primary suspension system through the lever arm of the supplemental suspension system to move and/or maintain the vehicle at a desired ride height.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Inventor: Larry J. Verbowski
  • Publication number: 20100018337
    Abstract: A rack shaft support device includes: a rack shaft support member that slidably supports a rack shaft; a sealing member fixed to an inlet port of a retention hole formed in a housing; an intermediate member that is interposed between the rack shaft support member and the sealing member; a torsion spring that couples the intermediate member so that torque is transmitted to the intermediate member; a torsion amount adjusting member that is attached to the sealing member in such a manner that a position of the torsion amount adjusting member with respect to the sealing member is adjustable and adjusts a torsion amount of the torsion spring; and a cam mechanism that converts a rotation force of the intermediate member induced by untwisting of the torsion spring into a force by which the intermediate member pushes the rack shaft support member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2009
    Publication date: January 28, 2010
    Applicant: JTEKT CORPORATION
    Inventors: Akitake Kawakubo, Yoshinori Suzuki, Hirofumi Ishimi
  • Patent number: 7625001
    Abstract: A vehicle suspension utilizes a shunt linkage assembly between first and second torsion springs to change effective lengths of the first and second torsions springs in jounce and roll modes of operation. A first lever arm couples the first torsion spring to a first wheel and a second lever arm couples the second torsion spring to a second wheel component. The shunt linkage assembly acts as a tension-compression link between the opposed first and second lever arms. During jounce the first and second torsion springs would have one effective length, and during roll the first and second torsion springs would have a shorter effective length to provide roll stiffness that is greater than jounce stiffness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: ArvinMeritor Technology, LLC
    Inventor: Gregory D. Pavuk
  • Patent number: 7549658
    Abstract: To achieve a low wheel spring rate at low wheel loads and a higher wheel spring rate at higher wheel loads, each wheel of a rear-wheel suspension is equipped with a torsion bar spring which cooperates by way of a pressure rod connected with the wheel carrier. An adjusting device is connected with the torsion bar spring to act upon an additional spring element which can take up a controlled elastic position or a blocked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Reinhard Kunert, Swen Zschocke
  • Patent number: 7543832
    Abstract: Various embodiments of variable rate stabilizer bars are disclosed, including apparatus, vehicle, and kit implementations. Embodiments may have first and second stabilizer bar members. Each stabilizer bar member may be adapted to be operatively coupled to a respective, opposite ground-engaging element of a vehicle. Each stabilizer bar member may be configured to experience a torque about their longitudinal axis upon movement of the respective ground-engaging element relative to the vehicle when operatively coupled to the ground-engaging elements. Embodiments may have a torque transfer regulator, which may be operatively coupled to both stabilizer bar members. The torque transfer regulator may be configured to transfer a portion of the torque experienced by one of the stabilizer bar members to the other stabilizer bar member. Some embodiments may provide for active control of the degree of torque transfer from one ground-engaging element's suspension system to the other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Assignee: Polaris Industries Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen L. Nelson, Louis J. Brady, Jeffrey D. Bennett, Geoffrey G. White
  • Patent number: 7527251
    Abstract: A non-helical torsion spring system includes an arm to be connected to a load, such as a frame or chassis of a vehicle, and at least one ring to be connected to a moving member, such as a vehicle suspension member. Torsion elements, which may be disposed in concentric groups, each have one end disposed at and resisting rotation relative to the arm but permitting flexural movement relative to the arm. The torsion elements also each have another end disposed at and resisting rotation relative to the at least one ring but permitting flexural movement relative to the at least one ring. At least one of the ends is axially movable. Each group of torsion elements is connected to a respective ring. A torsion control adjusts torsion in the at least two torsion elements, manually or through the use of servomotors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Inventor: W. Thomas Mc Clellan
  • Patent number: 7494143
    Abstract: A suspension assembly (40) in an automobile vehicle includes a support frame (42), a control arm (44) movable relative to the support frame (42), and a torsion bar (46) connected to the control arm (44) for resisting movement of the control arm (44). An adjustment lever (50, 150, 250, 350, 450, 550, 650) is connected to the torsion bar (46) for placing the torsion bar (46) in torsion. A hub (74, 174, 274, 374, 474, 574, 674) is positioned in a socket in the adjustment lever (50, 150, 250, 350, 450, 550, 650) for connecting the adjustment lever (50, 150, 250, 350, 450, 550, 650) to the torsion bar (46) at a plurality of primary drive positions at first angular increments as defined by a hexagonal connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2009
    Inventor: Larry J. Verbowski
  • Patent number: 7464800
    Abstract: This invention is directed at torsional vibration dampers of a rotating shaft. The dampers of the invention provide self-tuning to dampen harmonics, over a broad range of shaft angular velocities. Where the shaft rotates with an angular velocity about a longintudinal axis, and rotates perpendicular to a plane of rotation, the damper comprises: at least one passive damping element, and one controlling damping element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2008
    Inventor: George Nerubenko
  • Publication number: 20080277891
    Abstract: A vehicle stabilizer bar assembly having a pair of stabilizer bar members that are selectively uncoupled via a clutch. The clutch includes a plurality of engagement pins that can be selectively moved via an actuator to effect the uncoupling of the stabilizer bar members. The actuator is configured to apply a force to the moving element concentrically about the axis along which the moving element translates. A method for operating a vehicle stabilizer bar assembly is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2007
    Publication date: November 13, 2008
    Inventors: Herbert L. Adams, III, Larry G. Haske
  • Publication number: 20080048371
    Abstract: A torsion bar attachment mechanism for indexingly attaching a torsion bar to a cross-member component of a frame of a motor vehicle so that a range of torsion bars may be attached to a single adjuster arm. An adjuster arm has a barrel receptacle for indexingly receiving therein an adjuster barrel. The adjuster barrel has at least one barrel tab upstanding at its outer surface, and the surface of the barrel receptacle has a plurality of receptacle notches formed therein each of which being configured for receiving the barrel tab. When the adjuster barrel is received into the barrel receptacle of the adjuster arm, the barrel tab is indexingly disposed into one position of a predetermined plurality of positions of the barrel receptacle, wherein each position is defined by a receptacle notch and corresponds to a particular torsion bar, of a selected range of torsion bars to be used respectively therewith.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2006
    Publication date: February 28, 2008
    Applicant: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: John K. Dagg, Mansour F. Asmar, Tiage J. Carey, Barton W. Mc Laughlin
  • Patent number: 7270336
    Abstract: An adjustable stabilizer bar assembly is disclosed. An adjustable stabilizer bar assembly includes a cylindrical housing, a first primary half bar, a splined cylindrical housing, a second primary half bar, a splined torsion bar and a slidable assembly. The primary and secondary half bars are mounted to a vehicle suspension via the cylindrical housings. The splined torsion bar is disposed between the two cylindrical housings. The assembly allows for adjustable multi-rate stabilization means made by either the driver or an automatic control system, which may sense vehicle velocity, lateral acceleration or any other suitable operating variable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2007
    Inventor: Hiromichi Fujimori
  • Patent number: 7267142
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method wherein a first end and a second end of a pre-tensioned spring are positioned against a first and second stop. A rotating body is first rotated about its longitudinal axis such that the first end engages once in a cam wheel during each rotation, the wheel having at least X+1 teeth and at least one cam that runs parallel with the teeth. The cam wheel thus rotates one tooth further with each rotation of the rotating body. The rotating body is subsequently subjected to pre-tensioning until the cam wheel and its cam lies against a third stop and the first end engages the cam wheel. The rotation is then continued in order to increase the torque.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Siemens AG
    Inventor: Schroeder Lothar
  • Patent number: 7207574
    Abstract: A stabilizer bar for controlling the roll of an automotive vehicle has left and right sections, each provided with a torsion rod and a torque arm. The torsion rods are aligned along a transverse axis and attached to a structural component of the vehicle, while the torque arms are connected to the left and right control arms of the vehicle's suspension system. In addition, the bar has a coupling between the torsion rods of the two sections for controlling the torsional stiffness of the bar. The coupling includes a rotor fitted to one of the torsion rods and a housing fitted to the other torsion rod, with the housing receiving the rotor, such that a cavities exist between the rotor and housing. Both the rotor and housing carry vanes, that alternate so that the vanes of the rotor are located between the vanes of the housing. The cavities contain a magneto-rheological fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: The Timken Company
    Inventors: Mircea Gradu, Timothy L. Schlernitzauer
  • Patent number: 7165521
    Abstract: A variable valve timing control device includes a rotational shaft, a rotation transmitting member assembled around the rotational shaft, and a vane assembled to one of the rotational shaft and the rotation transmitting member. The variable valve timing control device also includes a fluid pressure chamber defined between the rotational shaft and the rotation transmitting member and divided into a retarded angle chamber and an advanced angle chamber by the vane, a fluid passage through which an operation fluid is selectively supplied to or discharged from the advanced angle chamber or the retarded angle chamber, and a torsion coil spring for constantly biasing the rotational shaft to an advanced angle direction relative to the rotation transmitting member. The torsion coil spring is disposed between the rotational shaft and the rotation transmitting member under a condition that the torsion spring is compressed to a predetermined length from a free length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Assignee: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Shigeru Nakajima
  • Patent number: 7096577
    Abstract: A firing mechanism of an explosively actuated tool for driving a fastener into a substrate includes a cocking rod and sear for entraining the firing pin with the firing pin being releasable on cocking by rotation of the sear. The cocking rod and sear form a structure subject to an axial and rotational bias by a coil spring anchored at one end to the structure and at the opposite end to a mounting which during assembly of the mechanism is rotated to apply torsional loading to the spring and is then locked into a housing of the mechanism in an angular orientation in which torsional loading is maintained in the spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Assignee: Cetram PTY Limited
    Inventor: David John McCullough
  • Patent number: 6948707
    Abstract: A stabilizer bar (D) for controlling the roll of an automotive vehicle has left and right sections (16, 18) joined together at a coupling (20) including a housing (36) on one of the sections and on a rotor (38) on the other section, with the rotor being in the housing. The coupling also includes a piston (40) which displaces axially in the housing in response to relative rotation between the sections, and this varies the volume in a housing cavity (80) behind it. That cavity is connected to a valve (22) having a restrictor (98) that carries an electrical coil (104). Both the valve and housing cavity contain a rheological fluid (82). The cease with which the piston displaces in the housing controls the stiffness of bar, and that depends on the viscosity of the fluid in the valve. The magnetic field produced by the coil controls the viscosity of the fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Assignee: The Timken Company
    Inventor: Mircea Gradu
  • Patent number: 6845995
    Abstract: A suspension bar assembly for an automotive vehicle includes a suspension bar having a bushing, a bushing retainer that exerts radially and axially compressive forces onto the bushing such that the bushing is in frictional engagement with the suspension bar, thereby preventing relative movement of the bushing and the suspension bar, and a mounting bracket that is adapted to connect the suspension bar to the automotive vehicle. A method of inducing a pre-load onto a bushing that supports a bar includes: providing a bar, placing a bushing onto the bar, placing a bushing retainer onto the bushing, and compressing the bushing axially and radially within the bushing retainer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2005
    Assignee: Visteon Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Haimian Cai, Xi Lin
  • Patent number: 6811166
    Abstract: A clutch device for use with a vehicle suspension system to vary the stiffness of a stabilizer bar. A plurality of dampers connected to the clutch body alternate with a plurality of dampers connected to the stabilizer bar. The dampers are coated with a friction material and surrounded by a fluid. When a load is applied on the walls of clutch body, the friction material comes into contact, dampening the rotation action of the stabilizer bar. A sensor senses the parameters of the ride and generates a signal based on these parameters. The signal activates a power source controller which applies the load to the walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Assignee: Meritor Light Vehicle Technology, LLC
    Inventors: Robert P. Carlstedt, James B. Chamberlin, Ragnar H. Ledesma, Nancy L. Saxon, Dennis A. Kramer, Doyle R. Downey, Joseph Cubalchini, Monte G. Williams
  • Patent number: 6767021
    Abstract: An accessory for coupling the A-arm of a vehicle to its torsion bar through a rigid member that relocates the relative position of the two components by a predetermined offset distance that raises the torsion bar with respect to the ground. As a result, the position of the torsion bar is elevated and the ground clearance of the vehicle's undercarriage is increased. By rigidly positioning the coupling mechanism between the A-arm and the torsion bar so that the distance of the point of attachment from the A-arm's pivot point in the frame remains substantially the same, the torsional effect of the torsion bar is retained without material change. Therefore, the safety and driving characteristics of the vehicle are not noticeably altered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2004
    Inventor: Jeremiah L. Schnurpel
  • Patent number: 6722669
    Abstract: An adjustable suspension system includes a torsion spring, four Scott-Russell linkages for each wheel of the vehicle, and a worm gear for rotating the torsion spring. At least one of the Scott-Russell linkages for each wheel is responsive to the torsion spring to adjust the ride height of the vehicle while maintaining a substantially constant camber angle for the wheel. In one exemplary method for adjusting the ride height of a vehicle, a dynamic parameter of the vehicle is sensed and, based on the sensed dynamic parameter, the torsion spring is automatically rotated to change the orientation of the Scott-Russell linkages and thereby adjust the ride height of the vehicle. The dynamic parameter may be the speed of the vehicle, the pitch and body roll of the vehicle, or the lateral acceleration of the vehicle. The operation of automatically rotating the torsion spring may be controlled by a microprocessor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Inventor: John C. Stammreich
  • Publication number: 20020125675
    Abstract: A suspension system includes a stabilizer bar having decouplable end links. A first segment of each end link is attached to the suspension member while a second segment is attached to the stabilizer bar. The second segment preferably selectively telescopes within the first segment. When the end links are engaged, the stabilizer bar is rigidly linked to the suspension members to provide roll resistance in a known manner. When the end links are disengaged, the second segment telescopes relative to the first segment to decouple motion of the suspension member from the stabilizer bar. The affect of the stabilizer bar is removed and the articulation range of suspension system is increased as it is unhindered by the torsional resistance produced by the stabilizer bar. Activation can be provided automatically through the controller or manually through a switch operated by the driver.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2001
    Publication date: September 12, 2002
    Inventors: Mark Clements, Joe Fader, Chris Keeney, Steve Yollick, Jim Hawkins
  • Patent number: 6425594
    Abstract: A suspension system includes a torsion bar having at least one adjuster arm. The adjuster arms extend radially from the torsion bar to contact respective stop members when the torsion bar is subjected to a predetermined torsion. When an adjuster arm contacts a stop, a portion of the torsion bar is rotationally fixed and the effective length of the torsion bar is reduced. By reducing the effective length of the torsion bar, the effective spring, rate of the torsion bar is increased. The present invention therefore provides a suspension system for a vehicle which can enhance riding comfort and handling by modifying the effective length of the torsion bar to achieve multiple spring constants with a single constant diameter torsion bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2002
    Assignee: Meritor Light Vehicle Technology, LLC
    Inventors: Joe Fader, Mark Clements, Chris Keeney, Steve Yollick, Jim Hawkins
  • Patent number: 6318737
    Abstract: A roll control actuator (34) for installation between first and second axially aligned parts (14,16) of a torsion bar comprises a first cylindrical housing (36) connectable at one end (38) to the first part of the torsion bar and having a cylindrical wall (44) with an inner surface (68) and a second cylindrical housing (40) connectable at one end (42) to the second part of the torsion bar and having a cylindrical wall (46) with an inner surface (50,72). The cylindrical wall of the first housing is coaxial with, rotatable relative to, and axially fixed relative to, the cylindrical wall of the second housing. A shaft (62) positioned inside the first and second housings is capable of moving in the axial direction relative to the first and second housings. A first tripot joint (76) is mounted on the shaft and has rollers (80) positioned in helically extending grooves (70) formed in the inner surface of the cylindrical wall of the first housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2001
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Michel Marechal, Guillaume Dazin
  • Patent number: 6149166
    Abstract: An apparatus (12) for use in a vehicle suspension (10) comprises an anti-roll bar (30) having opposite first and second ends (32 and 34) for connecting with respective first and second control arms (20 and 22) of the vehicle. The anti-roll bar (30) includes a portion (40) between the ends (32, 34) which is subjected to torsional forces. The anti-roll bar (30) has an actuatable device (70) for varying the torsional stiffness of the portion (40) of the anti-roll bar (30). At least one sensor (110) senses a vehicle characteristic and generates a signal indicative of the sensed vehicle characteristic. An electronic control unit (112) actuates the actuatable device (70) to vary the torsional stiffness of the portion (40) of the anti-roll bar (30). The electronic control unit (112) is responsive to the signal from the at least one sensor (110).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Assignee: TRW Inc.
    Inventors: Frank J. Struss, Brian A. Urbach
  • Patent number: 6102381
    Abstract: The device serves for storing energy. A spatial work range is defined by a displacement path upon compression of at least one spring of the spring storage. Along the work range in the working direction, at least two springs are arranged which are impinged in temporal succession upon compression and relaxation, respectively. For impinging the springs, at least one stationary retaining element and a mobile runner are provided. A spring loaded at a first point of time is immobilized in such a way that during a further displacement of the runner no further force is exerted by this spring between runner and retaining element. Reactivation of the immobilized springs is provided in temporal succession upon a reverse movement of the runner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Inventor: Friedrich Fischer
  • Patent number: 6022030
    Abstract: A dynamically variable roll stabilizer for a motor vehicle including a split U-shaped torsion bar on a body of the motor vehicle, a pair of rigid links between opposite ends the torsion bar and respective ones of a pair of suspension control arms of the motor vehicle, a mechanical coupling between the two separate elements of the torsion bar, and an electromagnetic actuator. The coupling includes a pair of oppositely acting roller clutches between the two separate elements of the split torsion bar. The electromagnetic actuator includes a pair of control rings which engage and disengage the roller clutches, a pair of control levers on the control rings, and an electric solenoid suspended between the control levers. When the solenoid is on, the control levers are thrust together and the control rings disengage the roller clutches. When the solenoid is off, the control levers are thrust apart by a spring and the control rings engage the roller clutches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2000
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: John David Fehring
  • Patent number: 5921569
    Abstract: A sleeve joined to a torsion bar passes through a through hole in a side wall plate fixed to a vehicle body. The sleeve comprises two projections. The shape and dimensions of the through hole are such that one of the projections can pass through the through hole at a predetermined rotation position. After this projection has passed through the through hole, the sleeve is rotated to a predetermined fixed angle. As the displacement of the sleeve in an axial direction is limited by the two projections the position of the sleeve in an axial direction is always constant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1999
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shinya Noutomi, Takashi Tsutsumi, Masao Kiyota
  • Patent number: 5735540
    Abstract: A dual-circuit hydraulic system for an active vehicle suspension control system to eliminate a rolling movement of a motor vehicle by using an adjustable stabilizer on a motor vehicle front axle and an adjustable stabilizer on a motor vehicle rear axle. The dual-circuit hydraulic system has at least one supply pump which uses at least one shuttle valve to supply a pressure medium, by way of supply lines, to at least one dual action actuator on each stabilizer. Each dual action actuator has at least two working chambers. In emergency operation of the shuttle valve, the working chambers of the at least one actuator on the rear axle are unblocked, so that in the event of a rolling movement of the vehicle, the pressure medium is transferred by being pushed out of the working chambers of the rear axle actuator by the action of the rolling movement of the vehicle on the rear axle stabilizer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1998
    Assignee: Fichtel & Sachs AG
    Inventor: Stefan Schiffler
  • Patent number: 5707050
    Abstract: In a mounting arrangement for a torsion bar of a torsion bar vehicle wheel suspension wherein the torsion bar is mounted at its one end to a cross link of a vehicle wheel suspension the other end of the torsion bar is connected to a mounting shoe which is engaged with the vehicle chassis only by the torque forces transmitted through the torsion bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 13, 1998
    Assignee: Mercedes Benz AG
    Inventor: Wolfgang Pfundstein
  • Patent number: 5685527
    Abstract: A suspension adjuster apparatus (46) suitable for use in a motor vehicle having a tension strut 42 interposed and connecting a chassis 10 to a wheel support member 26 is described. The apparatus (46) ensures proper orientation of the suspension member (42) during the assembly process. Additionally, the apparatus provides vibration isolation (68) while limiting rotation of the suspension member (42) relative to the chassis (10) within a predetermined range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 11, 1997
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Mohamed Mouin Harbali, Mark Anthony Roberts
  • Patent number: 5632502
    Abstract: A rotary actuator having a cylinder and a motor shaft as well as end caps which define a working area, a number of ribs on the inside surface of the cylinder and an equal number of vanes on the motor shaft which divide the working area into work chambers, and seals inside grooves in the ribs and the vanes. The work chambers are alternately supplied with hydraulic medium, and the seals hydraulically separate the working chambers from one another. The seals are in the form of one-piece gasket members and there is a space between the seals and the side walls of the groove in the static rest position. The gasket member, via its end surfaces, its surfaces which define the height of the gasket member, and one side wall, perform a sealing function during operation of the rotary actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 27, 1997
    Assignee: Fichtel & Sachs AG
    Inventors: Horst Oppitz, Bernhard Schmitt