Horizontal And Transverse Pivot Axis Patents (Class 280/124.116)
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Publication number: 20140361506Abstract: A steering and suspension mechanism for a motorbike, scooter, bicycle, skateboard or other two wheeled, in-line, vehicle, incorporating a steering axis rake that is inclined to the vertical, in a direction that is upwards and forwards from the ground in the normal direction of travel, together with a trailing radial arm suspension, in combination. Steering may be effected via a push rod attached to the handlebars, which in turn pivot on the main chassis. A brake calliper may be pivoted on the wheel axle, with a link to the steering head assembly to prevent rotation of the calliper with the brake disc under braking. This link may be parallel or nearly parallel to the radial arm. The exact angle can be chosen to control ‘dive’ due to weight shift under braking.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 30, 2014Publication date: December 11, 2014Inventor: Robert Christopher WALTON
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Publication number: 20140353936Abstract: A vehicle suspension leaf spring assembly is arranged to be mounted in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle on opposite sides thereof. The leaf spring assembly has a first end, which is arranged for pivotal connection to a first bracket on the vehicle; and a second end, which is arranged for connection to a spring shackle on the vehicle. The leaf spring assembly is arranged to be connected to an axle extending transversely of the leaf spring assembly at a position intermediate the first and second ends of the leaf spring assembly. The leaf spring assembly includes two individual leaf springs arranged side-by-side with a predetermined spacing and extending between the first and second ends.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 31, 2012Publication date: December 4, 2014Applicant: VOLVO LASTVAGNAR ABInventor: Stefan Preijert
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Patent number: 8894080Abstract: A method of press-forming a tubular part having a cross section of an irregular shape crushes a steel tube between an upper die and a lower die in order to form a V-shaped cross section. When the curvature radius of a tip of the upper die is defined as R1, the curvature radius of a bottom portion of the lower die corresponding to the tip of the upper die is defined as R2, and the wall thickness of the steel tube is defined as t; R1, R2, and t satisfy R1+2t=R2 and 1.5t?R1?3t.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2009Date of Patent: November 25, 2014Assignee: Nippon Steel & Sumitomo Metal CorporationInventors: Takaaki Fukushi, Isao Anai, Yasushi Yamamoto, Hideyuki Nakamura, Yoshiaki Kadoma, Naoki Hori
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Publication number: 20140327220Abstract: An underslung trailing arm suspension assembly is disclosed for use on heavy duty low clearance trailers having a unique beam configuration to provide clearance for a transversely mounted air brake actuator connected directly to a disc brake housing. The suspension beam includes a unique plate mounted near an axle seat below an air spring mounting plate providing clearance for a disk brake actuator.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 2, 2014Publication date: November 6, 2014Inventors: Mark Holt, Craig Baird, Bruce Barton
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Publication number: 20140326522Abstract: A seated vehicle comprises a frame, one or more first wheels at a first position relative to the frame, one or more second wheels at a second position relative to the frame, and a wheel-positioning system. The wheel-positioning system includes one or more arms pivotally coupled to the frame, and an adjustment mechanism operatively coupled to a first position of the one or more arms. The one or more first wheels are operatively coupled to a second position of the one or more arms. The adjustment mechanism moves the one or more arms between a first position and a second position so that the one or more first wheels are in a first position relative to the one or more second wheels when the one or more arms are in the first position and are in a second position relative to the one or more second wheels when the one or more arms are in the second position.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 17, 2014Publication date: November 6, 2014Inventors: Balz Maurer, Fabian Wolter
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Patent number: 8870203Abstract: An air ride suspension assembly or kit useful when converting a leaf spring suspension arrangement on a motor vehicle having a solid rear axle to one supported by the conversion suspension assembly is disclosed. The two sets of leaf springs which are attached to both sides of the vehicle chassis and the axle are removed and replaced by first and second upper support arms which are secured to the pre-existing leaf spring attachment sites on the chassis. The leading end of first and second lower trailing arms are each pivotally connected to a corresponding upper support arm proximate the front end of each support arm, and in the intermediate section of each trailing arm, are attached to the underlying axle by pivot connection means which permits the axle to pivot at right angles to the trailing arms. First and second inflatable air bladders are disposed between each support arm and trailing arm combination at a location rearward of the pivot connection means.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2010Date of Patent: October 28, 2014Assignee: LBC Contracting, Ltd.Inventor: Paul Legros
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Patent number: 8870202Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a stabilizer for vehicle suspension, comprising a longitudinal polymeric body with a metal frame having two ends (3) and a central sector (2), having a hole (4) at each end (3) wherein there is housed a ball joint (7), where the frame is formed from two metal parts (1) having an open section which are arranged opposite one another on their open sides, the central sector (2) of each part (1) comprising two tabs (6) located in opposition on each side and facing the open side, and the ends (3) comprising rims (3?) such that the two opposing parts (1) rest on the tabs (6) and on the rims (3?) and are embedded in an overmolded body (5) which externally coats them and fills the inner space defined by the two opposing metal parts (1).Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2013Date of Patent: October 28, 2014Assignee: Edai Technical Unit, A.I.E.Inventors: Rafael Teijeiro Castro, Jorge Varela, Joserra Mosteiro
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Publication number: 20140306416Abstract: A rigid axle with direct air suspension, preferably for a commercial vehicle. The rigid axle includes an axle body, trailing arms, air springs and vibration dampers. The rigid axle is characterized in that a contact point of the vibration damper, on the axle side, is arranged on the trailing arm. The arrangement of the vibration damper parallel to the direction in which the axle is deflected provides both space and weight savings, without the necessity of arranging elaborately constructed and weight-increasing additional devices in the area of the axle body or the chassis and allows light and slim vibration dampers to be used, and eliminates undesirable horizontally-acting force components of the damping force.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 17, 2012Publication date: October 16, 2014Inventor: Eike Helm
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Publication number: 20140306415Abstract: Disclosed herein is a panhard linkage system that includes a straight axle extending between a first wheel and a second wheel of a vehicle, the straight axle including a length that is adaptable for sliding movement of an attached sliding joint. The system includes a first panhard link pivotally attached to and extending between a first panhard location that is on or connected directly to a frame of the vehicle and a second panhard location that is on or connected directly to the straight axle by way of the sliding joint. The system further includes a second panhard link pivotally attached to and extending between a third panhard location that is on or connected directly to a middle of the first panhard link located between the first and second panhard locations and a fourth panhard location that is on or connected directly to the straight axle. Further disclosed is a vehicle including the panhard linkage system, and a kit for providing the panhard linkage system to the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 31, 2014Publication date: October 16, 2014Inventor: Aaron L. Aldrich
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Patent number: 8851492Abstract: An axle/suspension system for heavy-duty vehicles having a frame and at least one suspension assembly operatively connected to the frame, the axle/suspension system including a mechanical stop having a plurality of links and a first end and a second end, the second end rigidly attached to the suspension assembly and the first end rigidly attached to the vehicle frame, wherein the first end and the second end control a distance between the first end and the second end, and control the plurality of links to attain a movement tolerance range of said mechanical stop from about 0.0 inches to about 2.0 inches.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 2014Date of Patent: October 7, 2014Assignee: Hendrickson USA, L.L.C.Inventors: Jacob Andreasen, R. Scott Fulton, John E. Ramsey, Ryan J. Lippincott
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Publication number: 20140291955Abstract: A torsion axle assembly for a rear suspension of a vehicle is provided. The torsion axle assembly includes a torsion axle cross beam, a first trailing arm, a second trailing arm, and a connection node component. The torsion axle cross beam has a first end and a second end. Each of the first trailing arm and the second trailing arm has a first end coupled with the vehicle frame and a second end configured to support a rear wheel of the vehicle. The connection node component is formed as a single unitary piece and is configured to couple the torsion axle cross beam, one of the first and second trailing arms, and a rear wheel hub.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 29, 2013Publication date: October 2, 2014Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLCInventor: David S. Vestrand
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Patent number: 8844955Abstract: An axle mount for a brake system component of an axle/suspension system includes a weld disposed on and between the axle of the axle/suspension system and a brake system component. The weld secures the brake system component to the axle of the axle/suspension system to form a bracket-to-axle connection. The connection includes a peened portion that is formed by working the surface of the connection by mechanical means. The peened portion of the connection exhibits residual compressive stresses that increase the durability of the brake bracket-to-axle connection and also the durability of the axle itself.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2013Date of Patent: September 30, 2014Assignee: Hendrickson USA, L.L.C.Inventors: R. Scott Fulton, Phillippi R. Pierce
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Patent number: 8844956Abstract: A directional damper for heavy-duty vehicle axle/suspension systems includes damping means disposed at least between the vehicle and a suspension assembly of the vehicle. The damping means provides directional damping to the suspension assembly with respect to a selected datum, such as the beam or the main member of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 2014Date of Patent: September 30, 2014Assignee: Hendrickson USA, L.L.C.Inventors: Matthew J. Boler, R. Scott Fulton, Thomas J. Long
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Publication number: 20140265205Abstract: A suspension assembly having a frame hanger, a first control arm mounted between the frame hanger and an axle attachment member, a second control arm mounted to the frame hanger and to the axle attachment member, wherein the second arm extends from a centerline of the first control arm at an angle alpha such that the first control arm and the second control arm are not parallel to each other, wherein the centerline of the first control arm and the centerline of the second control arm extend to intersect at a point that is at a virtual center of rotation.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 7, 2014Publication date: September 18, 2014Applicant: Hendrickson USA, L.L.C.Inventors: Ashley T. Dudding, Richard J. Aumann, Michael Brannigan, Matthew J. Van Meter
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Patent number: 8833779Abstract: A torsion axle assembly for a rear suspension of a vehicle is provided. The torsion axle assembly includes a torsion axle cross beam, a first trailing arm, a second trailing arm, and a connection node component. The torsion axle cross beam has a first end and a second end. Each of the first trailing arm and the second trailing arm has a first end coupled with the vehicle frame and a second end configured to support a rear wheel of the vehicle. The connection node component is formed as a single unitary piece and is configured to couple the torsion axle cross beam, one of the first and second trailing arms, and a rear wheel hub.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2013Date of Patent: September 16, 2014Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventor: David S. Vestrand
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Patent number: 8820760Abstract: A wheel axle suspension comprises an axle body, a flexible trailing arm extending crosswise to the axle body, an axle pad arranged between the axle body and the trailing arm, and a clamping assembly for tightening the axle body, the axle pad and the trailing arm together. The axle body is provided with an elongated indent in the region where it is clamped, which indent extends in a longitudinal direction of the axle body. The axle pad has an elongate protrusion that fits in the indent in the axle body. The axle pad furthermore has a rigid rear portion, which comprises a rear engagement zone engaging on the rear half of the axle body, and a front portion which comprises a front engagement zone engaging on the front half of the axle body. The axle pad comprises a flexible intermediate portion interconnecting the front and the rear portion.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2012Date of Patent: September 2, 2014Assignee: VDL Weweler B.V.Inventors: Derk Geert Aalderink, Rutger William Tijhuis, Paulus Kruijer
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Publication number: 20140239607Abstract: A vehicle wheel axle lifting device is provided, including a fixing portion, a cantilever and an urging arm. The cantilever and the urging arm are respectively mounted to the fixing portion, and the cantilever and the urging arm are swingable respectively around different axes so as to allow a first air bag to be disposed between the urging arm and the fixing portion. The first air bag is abutted against the urging arm, and the urging arm is abutted against the cantilever, so the vehicle wheel axle lifting device is energy-saving and easy to maintain, assemble and disassemble.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 1, 2011Publication date: August 28, 2014Inventor: Chiang-Chuan Wu
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Patent number: 8814189Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a suspension element for maintaining a wheel on a frame of a vehicle. The suspension element can be attached to the frame via a fixed support. The wheel can be mounted to an arm that is pivotably connected to the fixed support. A hydraulic strut resists a pivoting movement of the arm in relation to the fixed support. A pressure accumulator comprises a gas chamber and a fluid chamber separated by a diaphragm. The fluid chamber is in fluid connection with the hydraulic strut. A movement of the arm relative to the fixed support causes a change of pressure in the pressure accumulator. An independent suspension comprising two such suspension elements is also disclosed. The two suspension elements comprise extensions of the fixed support mounted on the frame so that two wheels are coaxial when mounted on the frame.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2012Date of Patent: August 26, 2014Inventors: Mario Vitali, Mounsif Sarif, Denis Lagace
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Publication number: 20140225342Abstract: A suspension system for a vehicle includes a frame mounting bracket for mounting to the vehicle. First and second levers are pivotally mounted to the frame mounting bracket. First and second rubber torsion axle assemblies are rigidly mounted to the first and second levers, respectively. A control arm pivotally connects to the first lever and the second lever. The control arm, and the first and second levers are configured to rotate the first rubber torsion axle assembly and the second rubber torsion axle assembly simultaneously when a static or dynamic force is encountered by the suspension assembly. First and second spindle swing arms can be attached to the first and second torsion axle assemblies respectively with the first spindle swing arm extending forward of the first lever with respect to a direction the vehicle normal travels and the second swing arm can trail the second lever in a “push-pull” configuration.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 13, 2013Publication date: August 14, 2014Applicant: AIR SUSPENSIONS, INC.Inventors: Ervin K. VanDenberg, David H. Croston, Michael K. Powers
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Publication number: 20140203531Abstract: A scooter rear shock damping structure comprising a frame and an elastic unit is disclosed. The frame is disposed under a back end of a stepping plate. A forwardly extending front pivotal connect portion of the frame is pivotally connected to the stepping plate. Back positioning pieces backwardly extending from left and right sides of the frame respectively are coaxially fixed by left and right sides of a rear wheel. The elastic unit is positioned between the back end of the stepping plate and the frame. Thereby, when a user steps on the stepping plate to ride on the scooter and the rear wheel is in contact with the ground, and when the scooter travels on ragged surfaces; the support, compression and resilience of the elastic unit enable the rear wheel to move upward and downward relative to the stepping plate for buffering shock damping effect.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 17, 2014Publication date: July 24, 2014Applicant: Laing Ban International Inc.Inventor: Wen-Hung HUANG
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Publication number: 20140197613Abstract: The invention relates to a vehicle axle suspension comprising:—a tubular axle body (3) having a longitudinal axis;—resilient suspension arms (5) which extend in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle on both sides of the vehicle, and which cross the axle body substantially perpendicular, each suspension arm having a curved portion (9) with a concave underside forming an axle recess in which the axle body is received, and each suspension arm being hingedly connectable at the front, viewed in the direction of travel of the vehicle, to a bearing bracket arranged on the vehicle chassis;—two intermediate members (13), each intermediate member being positioned in said axle recess between the axle body and the curved portion of one of the respective suspension arms, wherein each intermediate member has a concave underside which matches with the outer contour of the tubular axle body;—a pneumatic spring for each suspension arm which is operational between the respective suspension arm and the vehicle chassis;—a clType: ApplicationFiled: December 9, 2010Publication date: July 17, 2014Applicant: VDL Weweler B.V.Inventor: Derk Geert Aalderink
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Publication number: 20140197615Abstract: A directional damper for heavy-duty vehicle axle/suspension systems includes damping means disposed at least between the vehicle and a suspension assembly of the vehicle. The damping means provides directional damping to the suspension assembly with respect to a selected datum, such as the beam or the main member of the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 13, 2014Publication date: July 17, 2014Applicant: Hendrickson USA, L.L.C.Inventors: Matthew J. Boler, R. Scott Fulton, Thomas J. Long
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Publication number: 20140197614Abstract: A wheel axle suspension for attaching a wheel axle to a vehicle chassis has a trailing arm extending crosswise to the axle body and an axle pad arranged between the axle body and the trailing arm. At least one clamping strap, having a generally U-shape with a front leg and a rear leg, extends around the axle body. Strap nuts are provided on the strap legs for tightening the axle body, the axle pad and the trailing arm together. A clamping part is arranged on the side of the arm facing away from the axle body, which clamping part has side portions which extend beyond the side edges of the trailing arm. The trailing arm is provided at a location at the rear side of the axle body with at least one recess for receiving the end portion of the rear legs of the damping straps.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 12, 2011Publication date: July 17, 2014Applicant: VDL Weweler B. V.Inventor: Derk Geert Aalderink
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Patent number: 8777242Abstract: A linkage mechanism for double-wheel combination of vehicle mainly includes a main frame, connecting rod, and two sway rods. With the simple assembly, the two sway rods are pivoted to the main frame and the connecting rod respectively so as to sway identically and simultaneously for better vehicle stability and mobility.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2013Date of Patent: July 15, 2014Assignee: Bentech Marketing & Engineering Co., Ltd.Inventor: Bo-Sheng Cheng
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Patent number: 8770604Abstract: A cast or forged suspension trailing arm for suspending a heavy vehicle chassis from a beam-type axle includes an integral axle locating feature.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2003Date of Patent: July 8, 2014Assignee: Meritor Heavy Vehicle Systems LimitedInventors: Garry Brereton, David Chan
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Patent number: 8764123Abstract: The invention relates to an axle assembly for a commercial vehicle, having an axle produced from a first metal material and at least one trailing link produced from a second metal material which has a connecting portion with a seat which the axle sits with a hollow coupling portion such that the axle and the trailing link are in torque-proof engagement with one another.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2008Date of Patent: July 1, 2014Assignee: Schmitz Cargobull AGInventors: Peter Schmitz, Jorg Ebert
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Patent number: 8764036Abstract: A shock mount support assembly for a shock absorber of a suspension assembly of an axle/suspension system includes a shock support bracket formed with an opening. A fastener is disposed through the opening in the shock support bracket and an eyelet of the lower end of the shock absorber to loose-fit the shock support bracket to the shock absorber, and to the suspension assembly beam in a transverse direction. The shock support bracket includes at least one transversely elongated or oversized opening that aligns with an opening formed in the beam. A fastener is disposed through the pair of aligned openings in order to loose-fit attach the shock support bracket to the beam. During assembly, the eyelet fastener is tightened first drawing the shock support bracket transversely outboardly. The fastener disposed through the shock support bracket-to-beam attachment is tightened, rigidly attaching the shock support bracket to the suspension assembly.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 2012Date of Patent: July 1, 2014Assignee: Hendrickson USA, L.L.C.Inventors: Brett L. Muckelrath, Keith D. McComsey, Sri Satya T. Kakarla, Ryan J. Lippincott, James J. Patterson, R. Scott Fulton
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Patent number: 8764038Abstract: An axle seat bracket-to-beam connection for a heavy-duty axle/suspension system includes at least a pair of spaced apart weld stops that are attached to a beam of a suspension assembly of the axle/suspension system. A weld is laid along an interface between the axle seat bracket and the beam between the pair of weld stops.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2013Date of Patent: July 1, 2014Assignee: Hendrickson USA, L.L.C.Inventors: Daniel J. Piehl, Kevin J. Erdmann
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Patent number: 8764037Abstract: A wheel axle suspension having on both sides of a vehicle a trailing arm which extends in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, a thin walled tubular axle body, which has attachment regions where the axle body is attached to the trailing arms. Each trailing arm is hingedly connected at the front, viewed in the direction of travel of the vehicle, to a bearing bracket which is arranged on the vehicle chassis. The suspension also comprises a pneumatic spring operational between each of the trailing arms and the chassis, and clamp bodies for clamping the axle body at the attachment regions thereof so as to attach the axle body to the trailing arms, as well as tensioning elements for providing the clamp force for the clamp bodies.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2009Date of Patent: July 1, 2014Assignee: VDL Weweler B.V.Inventor: Derk Geert Aalderink
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Patent number: 8733768Abstract: A race car four link bar to chassis remotely adjustable brackets for providing quick, efficient, and precise adjustment for trailing arms on a race car chassis. The race car four link bar to chassis remotely adjustable brackets generally includes adjustable brackets that include a pivoting load block (10), slotted bracket plates (20), a hemi joint carrier (30) and a lead screw (40).Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2013Date of Patent: May 27, 2014Inventor: James R. Shoulders
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Patent number: 8727363Abstract: A suspension assembly for a vehicle including an elongated central torsion axle shaft of a rubber torsion axle assembly, a torsion axle shaft pivot point about which the torsion axle shaft pivots, a spring and an elongated spindle swing arm. The spring has a first end and a second end and the first end of the spring is connected to a fixed point relative to a vehicle frame. The spindle swing arm has a second end with the first end connected to the torsion axle shaft with the second end of the spindle swing arm connected to the second end of the spring. The spring can set the torsion axle shaft to a predetermined position, such as at or near a no-load position, when only static forces are present. This provides for a torsion axle with a greater range of movement and significantly improves its lifespan.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2012Date of Patent: May 20, 2014Assignee: Transportation Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Ervin K. VanDenberg, David H. Croston
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Patent number: 8720922Abstract: A suspension system for use with a vehicle including an axle tube, an internal tube and a locking structure. The axle tube is adapted to be attached to the vehicle. The internal tube assembly has an inner member with a first end and a second end. A locking structure is formed integrally at the second end with the inner member. The locking structure has a locking shape that allows the internal tube assembly to be inserted into the axle tube when the locking structure is rotated to a non-operational position. The internal tube assembly is prevented from being removed from the axle tube when the internal tube assembly rotates between jounce and rebound positions when the suspension system is operational.Type: GrantFiled: September 6, 2012Date of Patent: May 13, 2014Assignee: Transportation Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Ervin K. VanDenberg, David H. Croston
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Patent number: 8720920Abstract: A sleeve for assembling into a sub-assembly including a control arm of a vehicular suspension assembly prepared by a process is disclosed. The process includes the steps of: providing a tubular segment; firstly shaping a first portion of the tubular segment to include a proximal flange; secondly shaping a second portion of the tubular segment to include a distal flange. A third portion of the tubular segment forms an intermediate body extending between the proximal flange and the distal flange. The length of the tubular segment includes a substantially constant and uniform thickness after the firstly shaping step and the secondly step. A sleeve is also disclosed. A sub-assembly. A portion of a vehicular suspension assembly is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2012Date of Patent: May 13, 2014Assignee: Williams-Bayer Industries Inc.Inventors: Wilbert W. Williams, Richard Bayer, Brian Bayer, Adam Bayer, Christopher Bayer, Craig Williams
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Patent number: 8714297Abstract: A single-wheel suspension of a non-steerable driven wheel of a two-track vehicle is provided. The suspension includes two longitudinal control arms that pivot in a vertical plane. The first control arm is supported by a vertical pendulum support and supports a wheel bearing. The second control arm is supported with one rotational degree of freedom on the vehicle and is connected to the first control arm with one rotation degree of freedom by a connecting member between the wheel bearing and the pendulum support. At least a section of the first control arm between the wheel bearing and the connecting member is located inside the wheel rim space. A gear mechanism at least partially inside the wheel rim includes two transmission stages laterally offset from one another. The rotational axes of a connection shaft connecting first and second transmission stages and the connection element between the two control arms coincide.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2013Date of Patent: May 6, 2014Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke AktiengesellschaftInventors: Elsa Davy, Bernhard Paulus, Alfred Pruckner, Dirk Schlichte, Jakob Mueller
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Patent number: 8708359Abstract: A vehicle suspension comprises an assembly of a hub carrier and a support arm, the support arm being attached to the hub carrier at two points spaced from each other in the direction of travel and extending inwardly therefrom to a support arm attachment point for fixing to a chassis, and a trailing link extending from the assembly in a direction transverse to that of the support arm, toward a trailing link attachment point for fixing to the chassis. The trailing link preferably extends from the assembly in a forward direction, and is preferably connected directly to the hub carrier. A strut can extend upwardly toward an attachment point for fixing to a chassis, to provide a spring and damper. The support arm can comprise a pair of arms extending divergently from the attachment point to each of the two points. The hub carrier can include a pivot pin extending in a fore/aft alignment, passing through two pivot points on the support arm thereby to define the two points.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 2010Date of Patent: April 29, 2014Assignee: Gordon Murray Design LimitedInventor: Ian Gordon Murray
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Patent number: 8696002Abstract: A roll center variator is described, generally including a first transverse locating device, a second transverse locating device, an adjustable spacing mechanism, and first and second simple links attached to the spacing mechanism and a vehicle axle. Each of the transverse locating devices has two ends attached to opposing sides of a vehicle frame. The spacing mechanism is attached at a first point to the first locating device and at a second point to the second locating device. The first and second locating devices are comprised of a Watt's linkage, Panhard rod, or other transverse locating device. The variator includes a screw-threaded rod engaged with the spacing mechanism, wherein rotation of the rod in one direction increases a distance between a first point and a second point of the spacing mechanism and rotation in the opposite direction decreases the distance between the same two points.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2013Date of Patent: April 15, 2014Assignee: International Truck Intellectual Property Company, LLCInventor: Jonathan Dale Batdorff
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Publication number: 20140097588Abstract: A vehicle suspension may include a leaf spring, a link member and a bumper. The leaf spring may include first and second ends and a body extending between the first and second ends. The first end may be pivotably coupled to a first mounting structure and may be configured to pivot relative to a vehicle chassis. The second end may be pivotably coupled to a second mounting structure and may be configured to pivot relative to the vehicle chassis. The body may engage a third mounting structure configured to secure the body relative to a vehicle axle. The link member may include a first end pivotably coupled to the first mounting structure and a second end pivotably coupled to the third mounting structure. The bumper may extend downward from the link member toward the leaf spring.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 4, 2012Publication date: April 10, 2014Inventors: Brian A. Del Pup, Nicholas Walters, Todd R. Kelpin, Murthy Kowsika
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Patent number: 8678407Abstract: The present invention provides a trailing beam for supporting a trailer axle. The trailing beam has a generally rectangular cross section, the top, bottom and sides of which are fabricated from steel plate or channels, with the individual components being welded together at their junctures. The trailing beam incorporates a novel axle wrap which provides a curved sided window enabling weld securement of the axle wrap to the axle without the weld extending parallel to a longitudinal axis of the axle.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2013Date of Patent: March 25, 2014Inventor: Nicholas Eveley
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Publication number: 20140077472Abstract: An axle seat bracket-to-beam connection for a heavy-duty axle/suspension system includes at least a pair of spaced apart weld stops that are attached to a beam of a suspension assembly of the axle/suspension system. A weld is laid along an interface between the axle seat bracket and the beam between the pair of weld stops.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 16, 2013Publication date: March 20, 2014Applicant: HENDRICKSON USA, L.L.C.Inventors: Daniel J. Piehl, Kevin J. Erdmann
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Patent number: 8668214Abstract: A mounting arrangement for a V-rod in a vehicle suspension includes an axle housing having a mounting cavity formed thereon and a joint member installed in the mounting cavity so that a joint coupling extends outward from the axle housing. The joint member may include a ball joint mounted on a post mountable in the mounting cavity. The mounting cavity may be formed in a boss provided on the axle housing.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2008Date of Patent: March 11, 2014Assignee: Mack Trucks, Inc.Inventors: Matt T. Elliott, Mark Winders
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Publication number: 20140062048Abstract: A utility vehicle comprises a plurality of ground engaging members and a frame supported by the plurality of ground engaging members. The frame includes a front frame portion, a mid-frame portion, and a rear frame portion. The utility vehicle further comprises an attachment supported at the front frame portion. Additionally, the utility vehicle includes an operator area supported by the frame and including an operator seat and an adjacent passenger seat spaced apart from the operator seat. The operator seat and the passenger seat are in a side-by-side arrangement. The utility vehicle also comprises an auxiliary power assembly having an attachment shaft configured to be operably coupled to the attachment. The attachment shaft extends in a generally longitudinal direction of the utility vehicle and projects outwardly from the front frame portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 21, 2012Publication date: March 6, 2014Applicant: POLARIS INDUSTRIES INC.Inventors: ADAM J. SCHLANGEN, LOUIS J. BRADY, VINCENT ARONSON
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Publication number: 20140062049Abstract: This is a novel suspension system comprised of four independent links where two links occupy one side of a solid axle and two links occupy the opposite side of a solid axle. One pair of links is directed from the axle towards the end of the vehicle and lies diagonal to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle. The other pair of links is directed from the axle towards the middle of the vehicle and lies diagonal to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle. By its very nature, this suspension system can be applied to both the front and rear solid axles of a four wheel drive (4WD) vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 29, 2012Publication date: March 6, 2014Inventor: Ronald Scott Bandy
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Publication number: 20140062050Abstract: A sleeve for assembling into a sub-assembly including a control arm of a vehicular suspension assembly prepared by a process is disclosed. The process includes the steps of: providing a tubular segment; firstly shaping a first portion of the tubular segment to include a proximal flange; secondly shaping a second portion of the tubular segment to include a distal flange. A third portion of the tubular segment forms an intermediate body extending between the proximal flange and the distal flange. The length of the tubular segment includes a substantially constant and uniform thickness after the firstly shaping step and the secondly step. A sleeve is also disclosed. A sub-assembly. A portion of a vehicular suspension assembly is also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 29, 2012Publication date: March 6, 2014Applicant: Williams-Bayer Industries, LLCInventors: Wilbert W. Williams, Richard Bayer, Brian Bayer, Adam Bayer, Christopher Bayer, Craig Williams
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Patent number: 8657315Abstract: A suspension having a frame attachment portion having an opening with a spring mount positioned therein, and a first shear spring positioned between a wall of the spring mount and a side wall of the opening, and a second shear spring positioned between another wall of the spring mount and another wall of the opening. The first spring mount comprises an inboard part and an outboard part with a first through-hole positioned therein adapted to allow passage of a first connecting rod therethrough, wherein the first connecting rod connects the inboard and outboard parts together, and wherein the first shear spring is compressed between a wall of the spring mount and a wall of the opening, and wherein the second shear spring is compressed between a wall of the spring mount and a wall of the opening.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2012Date of Patent: February 25, 2014Assignee: Hendrickson USA, L.L.C.Inventors: Shawn D. Noble, Hormoz Kerendian, Ashley T. Dudding
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Patent number: 8657314Abstract: The present invention relates to a stabilizer link for a vehicle suspension and method for obtaining it, which allows reducing its cost, as a well as a faster and easier assembly, for which purpose it includes a longitudinal body having two ends with holes in which an articulation element is housed, and a central sector, having at each end a hole, wherein the longitudinal body is formed from two identical parts arranged such that they are facing one another and remain attached by means of a plastically deformable attachment element such that once it is deformed, it prevents the separation of the parts.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2012Date of Patent: February 25, 2014Assignee: EDAI Technical Unit, A.I.E.Inventor: José Ramón Mosteiro Goyoaga
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Patent number: 8641062Abstract: A lift axle suspension system is provided with a frame bracket member connectable to a vehicle frame, an upper control arm, and a lower control arm. Each control arm has a first end and a second end, with the first end of each control arm being pivotally connected to the frame bracket member. The suspension system also includes an axle connecting member connectable to an axle, with the second end of each control arm being pivotally connected to the axle connecting member. A compression coil spring having a first end connected to the lower control arm and a second end connected to the upper control arm serves as a lift mechanism for lifting and lowering the axle connected to the axle connecting member. The compression coil spring may encircle at least a portion of and be substantially coaxial with the lower control arm.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 2011Date of Patent: February 4, 2014Assignee: Hendrickson USA, L.L.C.Inventor: Michael J. Gottschalk
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Patent number: 8640806Abstract: A transport means (1) comprising: —at least two wheels (2), —a chassis (3) with a longitudinal axis, which is substantially parallel to a direction of travel of the transport means (1), and —at least one suspension system (4) operationally positioned between the chassis (3) and the wheels (2), wherein each wheel (2) has a wheel rotation axis (5), which is substantially horizontal, wherein the suspension system (4) includes a connection means (22) that interact releasably with a connection means (23) on the chassis (3), and wherein the suspension system (4) has a first orientation, wherein the suspension system (4) has at least one other orientation which is rotated in relation to the first orientation about a suspension rotation axis (6), which is substantially horizontal and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the chassis (3).Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2010Date of Patent: February 4, 2014Assignee: Ecomove ApSInventors: Rasmus Worup, Mikkel Steen Pedersen
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Patent number: 8632085Abstract: A suspension axle has beams that are bolted onto the axle. There are plates that are rigidly affixed to the front and rear of the axle with indentations on the inner end of the main portions and secondary portions of the beams that are sized to fit tightly over the plates. Bolts extend through openings in the axle end of the main portion and secondary portion and also through the plates and through the axle. The bolts have nuts thereon to securely hold the main portion and secondary portion in contact with the axle.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2012Date of Patent: January 21, 2014Assignee: IMT PartnershipInventors: Dean Davenport, Philip David Schnurr, Neil Kenneth Haslam
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Publication number: 20140015213Abstract: Disclosed herein is a tractor having a reinforced buffering function. The tractor includes: an upper link (51) and a lower link (52) which are hinged to upper and lower portions of a front axle (50) to form four-bar link structures on the left and right portions of the front axle; buffer cylinders (53) installed on the left and right portions of the front axle to provide a buffering structure for absorbing shock applied to the front axle; a pair of arms (61) installed on left and right portions of a rear axle (60) such that the arms are movable with respect to only the vertical direction; and buffer cylinders (62) respectively provided on the left and right portions of the rear axle to provide a buffering structure for absorbing shock applied to the rear axle, thereby more effectively absorbing shock applied to the front and rear axles of the tractor.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 19, 2012Publication date: January 16, 2014Inventor: Joong-Ho Kim
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Patent number: 8622406Abstract: The present invention provides an eccentric pivot member for effecting fore and aft movement of a leading end of a trailing beam member of a trailing beam suspension in response to rotation of the pivot member. Ratchet collars are provided which act between the eccentric pivot member and a suspension hanger to mechanically secure the assembly against rotation and any associated inadvertent misalignment.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 2012Date of Patent: January 7, 2014Inventor: Nicholas Eveley