Longitudinally Extending Swinging Support Arm (i.e., Leading Or Trailing Swing Arm) Patents (Class 280/124.128)
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Patent number: 8220810Abstract: A countersteering vehicle rear axle induces a rotational motion of a wheel carrier about a virtual spread axis in the toe-in direction under the influence of a lateral force on the outside cornering wheel mounted on the wheel carrier. A support member exhibits a section, which extends essentially parallel to the plane of the wheel carrier, and a section, which is connected, when viewed in the direction of travel, to former section behind the wheel center point and extends essentially in the transverse direction of the vehicle. In a lateral projection, the support member is inclined in relation to the vertical direction in essentially the same way as the virtual spread axis. This support member is supported at least on the free ends of a sheet metal support plate, which in a lateral projection is approximately U-shaped and which in turn is mounted on the axle body.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2010Date of Patent: July 17, 2012Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke AktiengesellschaftInventor: Benjamin Jakob
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Patent number: 8220809Abstract: A suspension system for use with a frame comprising a first side suspension opposite a second side suspension, the first side suspension having a complete parallelogram suspension proximate the first side, and the second side suspension having a complete parallelogram suspension proximate the second side. The suspension system also includes a cross tube disposed at least partially between the first side and the second side, as well as at least one spring for resiliently controlling the vertical movement of the first and second side suspensions.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2010Date of Patent: July 17, 2012Assignee: Air Suspensions, Inc.Inventors: Ervin K. VanDenberg, David H. Croston
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Publication number: 20120161413Abstract: The invention is an air suspension system on vehicle driven axle to maintain substantially constant pinion shaft angle in response to traction force reaction on axle and brake torque induced reaction on axle and in response to position of axle in jounce and rebound. The invention is based on four bar mechanism geometrically arranged to achieve substantially constant pinion shaft angle. The four bars are represented by 1) hanger bracket, 2) trailing arm, 3) link rod and 4) driven axle housing with its attachments. In one of the preferred embodiments, the trailing arm is pivotally connected to top portion of hanger bracket attached to frame rail. The middle portion of trailing arm is “spherically” connected to axle top. Rear portion of trailing arm is connected to frame rail by air spring and shock absorber. One end of said link rod is pivotally connected to lower portion of hanger bracket and other end is pivotally connected to lower portion of axle.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 13, 2011Publication date: June 28, 2012Inventors: Gowthaman Subbarayalu, Rajakumar Subbarayalu
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Publication number: 20120138376Abstract: A wheelchair includes a frame, and a front pivot arm pivotally mounted to the frame at a front pivot point, the front pivot arm having a caster for supporting the frame. A rear pivot arm is pivotally mounted to the frame at a rear pivot point, the rear pivot arm having a caster for supporting the frame. A ground engaging mid-wheel drive wheel is connected to the frame. A linkage connects the front and rear pivot arms to each other in a manner such that an upward or downward rotation of one of the pivot arms about its pivot point causes rotation of the other pivot arm about its pivot point in an opposite rotational direction.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 13, 2012Publication date: June 7, 2012Applicant: SUNRISE MEDICAL HHG INC.Inventors: Daniel Z. Zhou, Mark A. Jackson, John J. Tarter, Mark E. Greig, Rex W. Stevens, James M. Koerlin, Samuel D. Traxinger, Allen B. Killebrew
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Patent number: 8177245Abstract: A suspension is provided for non-steered wheels on a motor vehicle body. The suspension includes, but is not limited to a twist-beam rear axle with a Watt linkage. A top rocker arm of the Watt linkage is mounted on the motor vehicle body. The Watt linkage prevents the motor vehicle from oversteering during cornering. The damping bushes can be disconnected in part from wheel-guiding functions as the Watt linkage performs a major part of the wheel guiding functions, which leaves some freedom for designing the characteristics so as to significantly increase motoring comfort.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2007Date of Patent: May 15, 2012Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Gerd Bitz, Werner Brinker, Dirk Ehrlich, Michael Harder, Matthew S. Purdy, Wolfgang Stoff
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Patent number: 8167325Abstract: A control arm may be formed by assembling front and rear members respectively having upper and lower flanges so as to have a tubular cross-section, and a bending portion may be formed by bending the lower flange of the front member downwardly such that a drain hole is formed by the bending portion protruded downwardly when the front and rear members are assembled.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2010Date of Patent: May 1, 2012Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors CorporationInventors: Hoo Gwang Lee, Jong Un Park
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Patent number: 8162335Abstract: The present invention is directed to a Raised Axle and Suspension System that consists of a unique design that is intended to be used on a wide variety of front wheel drive vehicles and trailers by raising the axle overarm to an overhead position. This is accomplished by having the wheels on stub axles attached to a pivoting wheel support castings that are attached to frame attachment members. Angular support members are fixably attached to the frame attachment members and suspension support members that connect to the axle overarm. The axle overarm extends from the left side of the vehicle to the right side. The suspension springs extend between the suspension base members that are pivotally connected to the wheel support castings and the suspension support members along with conventional shock absorbers creating a spring cushioning system.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2011Date of Patent: April 24, 2012Inventor: Richard U. Press
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Patent number: 8152184Abstract: A structurally efficient vehicle suspension system capable of being isolated from the main vehicle structure by being housed within a vehicle's wheel thereby reducing risks of injury during a crash and permitting advantageous redesign of suspension geometry. By rotating the suspension link pivot axes approximately 90 degrees when compared with the positioning of traditionally known wishbone suspension systems, the upper and lower suspension links for each vehicle wheel are relocated to run essentially parallel to the axis of travel of the vehicle. Consequently, for each wheel the virtual longitudinal link length runs parallel with the axis of travel of the vehicle indicated by the arrow and virtual swing axle length runs perpendicularly to virtual longitudinal link length. However, the upper link pivot axis and the lower link pivot axis now run parallel to virtual swing axle and their convergence point defines its length.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2010Date of Patent: April 10, 2012Assignee: Edison2 LLCInventors: Oliver Christoph Ferdinand Kuttner, Ronald Christopher Mathis
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Publication number: 20120068431Abstract: In a vehicle wheel suspension, a first trailing arm is oriented in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle and a second trailing arm in the direction of an angle bisector between the longitudinal and transverse directions. The ends of the trailing arms determine a substantially horizontal instantaneous axis for the wheel carrier relative to the spring jounce and rebound motions of the vehicle chassis. The wheel carrier is slightly pivotable about a toe axis under the influence of braking forces. A support arm securely connects to the wheel carrier and extends over a defined distance substantially in parallel with and supported on the second trailing arm. The support is softer in the horizontal direction than in the vertical direction. A suitable design of the second trailing arm and/or the support arm allows a slight pivot motion of the wheel carrier about the toe axis.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 2, 2011Publication date: March 22, 2012Applicant: Bayerische Motoren Werke AktiengesellschaftInventor: Benjamin JAKOB
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Publication number: 20120056397Abstract: A trailing arm mounting structure is capable of size reduction as well as weight saving of a trailing arm bracket while ensuring mounting rigidity. In the trailing arm mounting structure, a clearance is formed between an outer sidewall of a side member and an inner sidewall of an extended portion of a side sill. In addition, an inner sidewall of a mounting bracket for a trailing arm is attached to an outer sidewall of the side member while the mounting bracket for the trailing arm is disposed in the clearance. An outer sidewall of the mounting bracket for the trailing arm is attached to the inner sidewall of the extended portion of the side sill, and a base end portion of the trailing arm is supported between the inner sidewall and the outer sidewall of the mounting bracket for the trailing arm.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 25, 2011Publication date: March 8, 2012Applicant: SUZUKI MOTOR CORPORATIONInventor: Takayuki Suzuki
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Publication number: 20120056396Abstract: A wheel suspension for a motor vehicle includes a suspension arm having a base body and support elements formed on the base body. Pivotally mounted on the suspension arm for rotation about a rotation axis is a wheel carrier which defines a wheel axis. An adjustment screw is arranged in substantial orthogonal relationship to the wheel axis and received at least one installation opening of the wheel carrier for securing the wheel carrier to the suspension arm.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 2, 2011Publication date: March 8, 2012Applicant: Benteler Automobiltechnik GmbHInventors: THOMAS HENKSMEIER, ERIK HOCHAPFEL
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Patent number: 8113527Abstract: The cross-member (12) comprises first and second beam elements (20, 22) having an open cross-section and firmly secured to each other so as to enclose a closed cross-section chamber (32) having such shape and sizes as to provide the cross-member (12) with the desired torsional stiffness. A free edge (20a) of the first beam element (20) is firmly secured to the outer surface of an intermediate portion (22c) of the second beam element (22) and a free edge (22a) of the second beam element (22) is firmly secured to the inner surface of an intermediate portion (20b) of the first beam element (20). The two beam elements (20, 22) are advantageously made as stamped sheet metal pieces.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2008Date of Patent: February 14, 2012Assignee: Sistemi Sospensioni S.p.A.Inventors: Guido Borgna, Armando D'Aponte, Piero Monchiero, Andrea Santini
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Publication number: 20120012407Abstract: A suspension system for a machine is disclosed. The suspension system may have a front torsion axle assembly with a first arm connected at a first end to a first shaft, and a first axle connected to a second end of the first arm. The suspension system may also have a rear torsion axle assembly with a second arm connected at a first end to a second shaft, and a second axle connected to a second end of the second arm. The suspension system may further have a frame connected to an end of the first shaft and an end of the second shaft. The second ends of the first and second arms are oriented within common angular quadrants defined by a coordinate system having an axis passing through the first ends of the first and second arms and aligned with a travel direction of the machine.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 15, 2010Publication date: January 19, 2012Inventors: Christopher E. Daniels, Michael S. Freberg
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Patent number: 8083245Abstract: A chassis system and a suspension module for vehicles having wheel subsystems incorporates a lateral torsion bar and a co-axial enveloping damper unit, featuring active-adaptive suspension characteristics. Pre-fabricated suspension modules are situated inside respective box-structures, connected via wheelbase and track members, allowing the storage of heavy elements (e.g., batteries or fuel-cells) at the chassis. The robust and self-carrying chassis is enhanced, using upper body members, in terms of structural rigidity, for a given wheelbase, achieving high impact-energy absorbtion. The suspension arms incorporate upper and lower members, articulation, connect internally or externally to the suspension module, and transmit drive and brake forces to the wheels.Type: GrantFiled: December 26, 2010Date of Patent: December 27, 2011Inventor: Dimitrios A. Hatzikakidis
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Publication number: 20110278813Abstract: A suspension system of the present invention pivotally supports a wheel of a motor vehicle. An upper control arm and a lower control arm are cooperable with a spindle, which supports the wheel. A vibration damper is cooperable with the upper control arm. A link interconnects the lower control arm and one of the terminal ends of the vibration damper thereby defining a common axis bisecting the link. The vibration damper moves along the common axis to absorb vibration transferred from a road surface and through the wheel.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 21, 2011Publication date: November 17, 2011Applicant: RADAR INDUSTRIES, INC.Inventors: Robert D. Kucinski, Mark S. Zmyslowski
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Publication number: 20110254243Abstract: The invention relates to a method for manufacturing of a flexible trailing arm for a wheel axle suspension of a vehicle such as a lorry or a trailer. In the method a steel blank is heated. Next, the blank is formed into the desired shape of the trailing arm by means of a suitable forming process. Following that the trailing arm is austempered by cooling it in a warm fluid medium.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 19, 2009Publication date: October 20, 2011Applicant: WEWELER NEDERLAND B.V.Inventors: Derk Geert Aalderink, Martinus Jozef Maria Verhoofstad
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Patent number: 8038163Abstract: A leading or trailing arm vehicle suspension system comprised of a fabricated vehicle axle and a fully integrated beam casting providing bending stiffness to control axle windup and longitudinal stiffness to control axle position is disclosed. The beam casting is attached to the vehicle axle with a thru-bolt connection. The beam casting includes rack and pinion mounting attachment holes and also includes other built-in features providing efficient transfer of loads into the vehicle axle.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 2010Date of Patent: October 18, 2011Assignee: Hendrickson USA, L.L.C.Inventors: Ashley Thomas Dudding, Rodolfo Rosales, Jr., Jerome Lim Cortez, Jerry Michael Lovett
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Patent number: 8033565Abstract: A trailer tandem wheel suspension system comprising a pair of suspension units (3) for mounting on either side of a chassis (4) of a trailer (1) to support a pair of wheels 2?, 2? and arranged to respond both to small and large deflections of the wheels 2?, 2?. Each suspension unit (3) has a primary spring element (12) and a secondary spring element (13) linked to the primary spring element (12) so that the primary and secondary spring elements (12, 13) are effective over different ranges of movement of the wheels 2?, 2?. The primary spring element (12) is a leaf spring responsive to small movements of the wheels 2?, 2? and the secondary spring element (13) includes a compression spring (18) linked to the leaf spring and responsive to larger movements of the wheels 2?, 2?.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2005Date of Patent: October 11, 2011Assignee: Oldbury UK LimitedInventor: Carl Justin Holroyd
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Publication number: 20110210528Abstract: A stabilizing strut for a chassis of a vehicle has an elongated strut body made of sheet metal which has at least one first eye at a first longitudinal end and at least one second eye at a second longitudinal end. The strut body has a curvature at least such that the strut body lies completely outside an imaginary connecting straight line between the at least one first and the at least one second eye at least in a partial region. The strut body is built up from two individual sheet metal parts which are arranged one on each side of a longitudinal centre plane. The two sheet metal parts are joined to one another between the at least one first eye and the at least one second eye at their peripheral edges on a longitudinal side of the sheet metal parts oriented towards the imaginary connecting straight line, at least over a partial length of this longitudinal side of the strut body which amounts to at least 50% of the total length of this longitudinal side of the strut body.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 22, 2011Publication date: September 1, 2011Inventors: Herbert HAAS, Daniel OBERT, Johannes OBRECHT
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Patent number: 8006990Abstract: An improved suspension that may be used in any dynamically loaded beam structure, such as a trailer chassis. Specifically, an improved spring hanger and method for attachment are discussed, in which the improved spring hanger is welded to the web of a support beam, where stresses are lower, as opposed to the bottom flange thereof. Methods are provided for welding the spring hanger to said beam alongside as well as in contact with existing, transverse support members.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2008Date of Patent: August 30, 2011Assignee: Reinke Manufacturing Co., Inc.Inventors: John E. Davis, Mark R. Virus, Daniel O. Seacat
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Patent number: 8002297Abstract: A wrap used on pneumatic suspension systems which includes a cylindrical body (100) with a single aperture for links (110) which extends along the surface of the cylindrical body (100), the aperture (110) having a region of interruption (101) with the single aperture form (110), and also including a sequence of concordant slots (120).Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 2009Date of Patent: August 23, 2011Inventor: Juarez Keiserman
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Patent number: 7997598Abstract: A link arm (81) for restraining lateral movement of a pivotable vehicle suspension system (1), wherein a first end (90) of the arm (81) is pivotally connected to a wheel-mounting end of the system (1) and a second end (91) of the arm (81) is pivotally mounted to a frame of the vehicle such that the arm (81) may pivot relative to the frame in unison with the wheel-mounting end and restrain lateral movement of the system (1) relative to the frame. The first end (90) has a bearing (90) through which a pivot pin (71) extends. The second end (91) has a ball and socket joint 91 (ball joint) enabling pivoting of the arm (81) relative to the frame about more than one axis.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2008Date of Patent: August 16, 2011Inventors: Charles Ralph, Bernard J. Ralph, legal representative, Simone F. Ralph, legal representative, Ashley Harris
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Patent number: 7988165Abstract: A suspension apparatus for an automotive vehicle employs, as its main element, a main suspension member 10. The main suspension member 10 includes a main portion 12 constituted by a pipe; two body-side attachment portions 14, 16 that are fixed to opposite ends of the main portion 12, respectively; and a wheel-side attachment portion 18 that is fixed to a rear-side portion of the main portion 12. The opposite ends of the pipe constituting the main portion 12 are located near to each other, such that the main portion 12 has a generally C-shaped configuration in its side view. The body-side attachment portions 14, 16 are attached to a body of the vehicle such that those portions 14, 16 are pivotable about their pivotal axes. The pivotal axes of the two body-side attachment portions 14, 16 are offset from each other in a direction perpendicular to those axes, or are inclined relative to each other.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2009Date of Patent: August 2, 2011Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Shinya Nishigaya
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Patent number: 7984915Abstract: Herein, a particular vehicle suspension control arm in a suspension having multiple control arms is designed to create a range of available axial stiffness levels which relates to a range of toe change at the wheel under to lateral loading. In particular, a semi-active device is arranged on a given suspension control arm to allow a change in stiffness that produces a desirable amount of toe change under the presence of lateral loading. This suspension arrangement, when applied to the rear axle of an automobile, has significant merit in being able to enhance maneuverability and stability over a large range of operating conditions at a minimal level of control input energy and with robust failsafe operation.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2009Date of Patent: July 26, 2011Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: James W. Post, II, John Markoski, Klaus Kramer
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Patent number: 7980577Abstract: A vehicle suspension system includes a pair of suspension assemblies mounted on a pair of spaced vehicle frame members for supporting a vehicle body on the vehicle wheels. A torsion axle extends between the pair of suspension assemblies and terminates in a pair of stub shafts. The axle is mounted on a pair of spaced frame brackets attached to the vehicle frame. An air spring extends between the vehicle frame and an outer end of a support arm pivotally mounted on each end of the torsion axle. The stub shafts are supported within an outer tube of the torsion axle by a plurality of elastomeric members. One end of each stub shaft is connected to a spindle arm which has a spindle extending from an opposite end of the arm.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 2010Date of Patent: July 19, 2011Assignee: Air Suspensions, Inc.Inventors: Ervin K. Vandenberg, David H. Croston
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Patent number: 7976038Abstract: A duplex trailing arm chassis support system has two longitudinal trailing arm members disposed on respective sides of the vehicle chassis and a structurally connecting cross member joining the two trailing arms to couple the movement of the two respective arms. Resilient cushioning members extend between each of the trailing arms and the underside of the vehicle chassis or between the connecting member and the vehicle chassis to provide resilient support to the vehicle chassis. Each trailing arm carries a wheel axle having wheels on both ends of the axle, each of the wheel axles being pivotally mounted to its respective trailing arm for rotational movement about the longitudinal axis of the trailing arm, allowing the axles to rock from side to side.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2009Date of Patent: July 12, 2011Assignee: Peerless LimitedInventor: John Stuart Gregg
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Patent number: 7967309Abstract: Left and right axle portions are provided for attachment to respective left and right wheels of a vehicle. The left axle portion can be rotatably supported by a left hub support portion, and the right axle portion can be rotatably supported by a right hub support portion. The left and right hub support portions can be movably supported with respect to the frame. Vehicles are also provided.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2008Date of Patent: June 28, 2011Assignee: Honda Motor Company, Ltd.Inventors: Daniel Thomas Sellars, Prince Rodriguez, Scott Daniel Batdorf
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Patent number: 7963359Abstract: To limit a vehicle-widthwise swing amount of a shock absorber to a smaller amount, thereby reducing the width of a vehicle. When a shock absorber is attached to an upper bracket portion provided on a swing arm via a spherical joint, both the end faces of the upper bracket portion provided on both sides of one end of the shock absorber via gaps are such that the size of the end face in the back-and-forth direction of the vehicle body (i.e., the diameter D of the end face) is greater than the vehicle-widthwise distance S between both the end faces.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2008Date of Patent: June 21, 2011Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Masayuki Fujita
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Patent number: 7963537Abstract: A suspension unit comprises a hub about which a suspension arm is pivotable. The hub is secured to a vehicle chassis or hull by means of a connecting element. The connecting element has a flange provided with holes positioned to coincide with pre-existing holes on the vehicle hole or chassis. The suspension unit can thus be retro-fitted to a vehicle in place of an existing suspension unit of a different kind.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2009Date of Patent: June 21, 2011Assignee: Horstman Defence Systems LimitedInventor: Brian Stockford
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Patent number: 7954834Abstract: A linkage for connecting a frame of a vehicle to an unsprung mass component of the vehicle, includes: a first portion connectable to the frame, and includes a first toothed surface; a second portion connectable to an unsprung mass component, and includes a second toothed surface, where the first portion is rotatably connected to the second portion and configured to be rotatable between the first toothed surface and the second toothed surface, and where the first toothed surface and the second toothed surface are configured to mesh with each other and maintain engagement.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 2008Date of Patent: June 7, 2011Inventor: Douglas Pokupec
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Patent number: 7957865Abstract: A suspension system for use on a vehicle having two or more rear axles. The suspension system includes a plurality of gas springs and plurality of height sensors capable of outputting signals having a relation to distances between the respective ends of the respective first and second rear axles and the sprung mass of the vehicle. A control system adapted to selectively inflate or deflate respective ones of the plurality of gas springs to thereby adjust a leveled orientation of the sprung mass. The control system includes a controller that is adapted to determine a rear axle vertical offset and a rear axle articulation offset. The controller is adapted to determine whether conditions are appropriate for adjusting the suspension system by comparing the rear axle vertical offset and/or the rear axle articulation offset to a corresponding vertical offset threshold and/or an articulation offset threshold. A method is also included.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2008Date of Patent: June 7, 2011Assignee: Driveright Holdings, Ltd.Inventors: Graham R Brookes, Joseph A Bounds, Gregory A Holbrook
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Publication number: 20110127744Abstract: A damping bushing is provided for an axle bearing of a trailing arm of a torsion-beam rear axle for a motor vehicle, in particular for an automobile, which includes, but is not limited to a bushing outer sleeve, a bushing inner sleeve, and a damping body. The interposed damping body is disposed coaxially to the bushing outer sleeve and to the bushing inner sleeve between these two elements. The bushing inner sleeve forms a radially outwardly extending spherical surface and the damping bushing has at least one further element that abuts extensively against the spherical surface formed by the bushing inner sleeve. Furthermore, a torsion-beam axle is provided that is fitted with these bushings.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 23, 2010Publication date: June 2, 2011Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.Inventors: Juergen SIEBENEICK, Michael HARDER, Gerd BITZ, Oleg MAZUR, Dirk EHRLICH
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Patent number: 7951031Abstract: A straddle type all terrain vehicle is provided with a chain guide for covering an outer peripheral edge of at least an engaged portion of a driven sprocket with a drive chain from outside in a radial direction inside a chain cover. A rear axle housing is formed with upper and lower flange portions extending upward and downward at opposite end portions in the vehicle width direction of the rear axle housing. The rear axle housing is coupled to a rear end portion of the rear swing arm for swinging forward and rearward about mounted portions of the upper flange portion. The chain cover is mounted on the swing arm side and the chain guide is mounted on the rear axle housing side, respectively.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 2007Date of Patent: May 31, 2011Assignee: Suzuki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Yuzo Hioki, Tetsuharu Nojiri
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Patent number: 7950675Abstract: A cargo carrier for movably supporting cargo includes a frame configured to support cargo at the cargo carrier and at least two wheels at each side of the frame. Each of the wheels is rotatably mounted to a respective support arm. The support arms are pivotally mounted to respective sides of the frame and are pivotable relative to the frame to adjust at least one of a height and tilt of the frame relative to a support surface. The cargo carrier is readily adapted to position the frame at a lower position for road applications and a raised position for uneven terrain applications. The cargo carrier may include a deck that is movably mounted to the frame and is longitudinally movable along the frame.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2006Date of Patent: May 31, 2011Assignee: Absolute Electronic Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Philip J Quenzi, Richard W Jenney
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Publication number: 20110121533Abstract: A control arm may be formed by assembling front and rear members respectively having upper and lower flanges so as to have a tubular cross-section, and a bending portion may be formed by bending the lower flange of the front member downwardly such that a drain hole is formed by the bending portion protruded downwardly when the front and rear members are assembled.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 7, 2010Publication date: May 26, 2011Applicants: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors CorporationInventors: Hoo Gwang Lee, Jong Un Park
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Patent number: 7946601Abstract: A composite suspension trailing arm for heavy commercial vehicles includes an axle locating portion integral with the trailing arm, a chassis mounting feature to mount the trailing arm to a chassis component of a vehicle and a spring mounting feature integral with the trailing arm. The axle locating portion is located between the chassis mounting feature and the spring mounting feature. The composite material is made of a matrix material and a reinforcement material.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2004Date of Patent: May 24, 2011Assignee: Meritor Heavy Vehicle Systems LimitedInventor: Thomas Hughes
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Patent number: 7946600Abstract: In a torsion beam wheel suspension system, a stabilizer bush made of resilient material is received in a hollow interior of a torsion beam that connect intermediate points of a pair of trailing arms, and retains an intermediate part of the stabilizer to the torsion beam. A bracket including a pair of vertical walls opposing lateral sides of the stabilizer bush is attached to a part of the torsion beam to prevent the lateral shifting of the stabilizer bush without any part of the bracket or stabilizer bush restraining the torsional deformation of the stabilizer or torsion beam. The vertical walls may be spaced apart from the stabilizer bush. The structure is not costly and does not cause any complication or difficulty in the assembly work of the rear wheel suspension system. The bracket may have dual purposes of retaining the stabilizer bush and supporting a dynamic damper.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2008Date of Patent: May 24, 2011Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Akira Kobayashi
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Publication number: 20110109052Abstract: A chassis system and a suspension module for vehicles having wheel subsystems incorporates a lateral torsion bar and a co-axial enveloping damper unit, featuring active-adaptive suspension characteristics. Pre-fabricated suspension modules are situated inside respective box-structures, connected via wheelbase and track members, allowing the storage of heavy elements (e.g., batteries or fuel-cells) at the chassis. The robust and self-carrying chassis is enhanced, using upper body members, in terms of structural rigidity, for a given wheelbase, achieving high impact-energy absorbtion. The suspension arms incorporate upper and lower members, articulation, connect internally or externally to the suspension module, and transmit drive and brake forces to the wheels.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 26, 2010Publication date: May 12, 2011Inventor: Dimitrios A. Hatzikakidis
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Patent number: 7938414Abstract: The invention relates to an auxiliary frame (1) for multi-link rear axles of motor vehicles, comprising two lateral auxiliary frame parts (B) which are embodied at least approximately in a V-shaped manner in such an arrangement that the vertexes (6, 7) thereof face each other and are joined to each other via a central auxiliary frame part (C) that extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle. The lateral auxiliary frame parts and the central auxiliary frame part are configured as hollow profiled members while the lateral auxiliary frame parts are provided with at least three of the following receptacles or recesses: the top transverse link; the bottom transverse link; the stabilizer; the longitudinal links; the fixture of the auxiliary frame to the vehicle body.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2006Date of Patent: May 10, 2011Assignees: KSM Castings GmbH, IAMT Ingenieurgesellschaft für Allgemeine Maschinentechnik mbHInventors: Thomas Buschjohann, Heiko Kauert
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Publication number: 20110089660Abstract: A method of constructing a vehicle suspension system includes forming a suspension arm having a pivot connection at an end thereof, and a brake mounting integrally formed with the suspension arm; and then securing the suspension arm to an axle. A suspension system includes an axle and a suspension arm having a pivot connection which pivotably connects the axle to a vehicle frame, whereby the axle is vertically displaceable relative to the frame. At least one brake shoe is pivotably mounted to the suspension arm. Another suspension system includes a suspension arm having a pivot connection at an end thereof, and a brake spider integrally formed with the suspension arm. The brake spider includes at least one opening which receives a brake shoe pivot therein.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 21, 2009Publication date: April 21, 2011Applicant: WATSON & CHALIN MANUFACTURING, INC.Inventors: Cully B. DODD, Todd GREAVES
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Publication number: 20110084461Abstract: Vehicle suspension having arms (6) and (7) for each wheel (14) and (15) respectively, each arm (6) having more than one sprung strut (18) and (19) of which two such struts each operates exclusively between two different arms. Each arm's rotational axis (28) and (38) respectively intersects a vertical longitudinal plane through the centre of road contact with the wheel at a point (45) and (46) respectively on a straight lines (47) and (48) respectively between the centre of contact with the road and a point at or near the anticipated centre of gravity (49) of the suspended mass projected onto the plane. Preferably, the vehicle transmission avoids applying a moment about the arm's rotation axis, braking is attached to the arm and steering linkage is passed through or near the arm's axis of rotation.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 20, 2009Publication date: April 14, 2011Inventor: Alan Bryn Bird
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Patent number: 7918469Abstract: A single unit that combines the advantages of a rear spring spacer block and a traction bar. The rigidity of the traction bar and design of the spacer block eliminate wheel hop and axle wrap while maintaining a level vehicle drive height. No welding is required to install the device, the device is length and height adjustable for a plethora of vehicle applications and the factory ride and handling are preserved.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2008Date of Patent: April 5, 2011Inventor: David John Hoppert
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Patent number: 7918300Abstract: A motorcycle conversion assembly for a motorcycle comprising first and second side members and first and second cross members to thereby define a rigid frame. The motorcycle conversion assembly further comprises first and second frame plates operably coupled to the frame and first and second axle plates operably coupled and rotatably adjustable relative to the first and second frame plates. The motorcycle conversion assembly further comprises first and second torsion adjustment assemblies, which are used to adjust the torsion acting on wheel assemblies when the motorcycle conversion assembly is operably connected to a motorcycle.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 2009Date of Patent: April 5, 2011Inventor: Paul Barns
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Publication number: 20110074129Abstract: To provide a swing arm pivot structure for a motorcycle which can prevent rubbing between a swing arm and a body frame with a simple structure and can reduce a manufacturing cost for the motorcycle. The swing arm pivot structure includes a swing arm for supporting a rear wheel, a pivot shaft mounted to a body frame and inserted through a swing arm pivot of the swing arm, a first bearing located between one end portion of the swing arm pivot and the body frame for pivotably supporting the swing arm, a first collar located between the inner circumference of the first bearing and the pivot shaft, and a second collar located between the first collar and the body frame. The second collar has a rigidity different from the rigidity of the first collar and the body frame.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 8, 2010Publication date: March 31, 2011Inventors: Takeo YOKOYAMA, Yoshiyuki KURAYOSHI, Masashi HAGIMOTO, Makoto OONO, Makoto NAGAYAMA
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Patent number: 7900942Abstract: A wheel suspension arm comprises a link opening (12) for pivotably securing the wheel suspension arm to a vehicle frame and an axle opening (11) for securing an axle element (2) to the wheel suspension arm. A peripheral edge (11a) of the axle opening includes at least one discontinuation, such as a slot (13). A screw (17) can be tightened to clamp the axle element (2) in the axle opening (11). The invention also relates to a method for producing the inventive wheel suspension arm and to a wheel suspension comprising said wheel suspension arm.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2006Date of Patent: March 8, 2011Assignee: SAF-Holland GmbHInventor: Hubert B. Koschinat
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Patent number: 7900941Abstract: A suspension system for providing a suspension between wheels and a frame of a vehicle is provided. The system includes an arm beam pivotally mounted to the frame at its proximate end and coupled at its distal end to a guiding assembly enabling the arm beam to pivot in a vertical direction and to be restrained in lateral directions perpendicular to the vertical direction. The arm beam includes: (a) a spring and damper assembly near its distal end for providing a dampened resilient mount for the suspension; (b) a wheel axle beam coupled to the arm beam for bearing a load borne by the wheels transmitted directly in-line with a central axis of the spring and damper assembly; and (c) a stabilizer coupled between the arm beam and the frame, the stabilizer resisting a lateral rolling motion of the vehicle. The stabilizer is included between the proximate end of the arm beams and their damper and spring assemblies for rendering the system more compact.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2006Date of Patent: March 8, 2011Assignee: Volvo Lastvagnar ABInventor: Andreas Lundmark
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Patent number: 7900943Abstract: A rear suspension system for an all-terrain vehicle having a chassis and at least three wheels. Two trailing arms are pivotally connected to a chassis. Each of the trailing arms includes a drive shaft bearing. A CV joint pivot arm is pivotally connected to the chassis. A CV joint housing is connected to the CV joint pivot arm. The CV joint housing includes a CV joint bearing. A CV joint is housed inside the CV joint housing and is supported by the CV joint bearing. A drive shaft extends through the CV joint and is rigidly connected to the CV joint. The drive shaft is further supported by each of the drive shaft bearings attached to the trailing arms. A shock absorption system is connected between the drive shaft and the chassis. In a preferred embodiment, a cross bar is connected between the trailing arms for stability. Also, preferably, the rear suspension system includes a sway bar and linear shock absorbers acting in combination to provide optimum suspension.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2007Date of Patent: March 8, 2011Inventor: Craig Stewart
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Publication number: 20110048833Abstract: A vehicle is disclosed having front and rear suspension systems adapted to change the track width of the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 30, 2008Publication date: March 3, 2011Applicant: BOMBARDIER RECREATIONAL PRODUCTS INC.Inventors: Ronald Schapf, David Belzile, Martin Heon, Vincent Tognon, Marc Gagnon
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Patent number: 7896370Abstract: The present invention relates to a trailing arm mounting device for a vehicle with a small-sized frame, in which mounting assembly that connects small-sized frame and the trailing arm and has a limit on the weight and cross-section by reducing the size of frame expands the fixing portion for small-sized frame, such that the fastening force to the mounting assembly is increased and the dynamic stiffness of the trailing arm used for small-sized frame is also increased.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2007Date of Patent: March 1, 2011Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors CorporationInventor: Yongdok An
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Patent number: 7891683Abstract: A torsion-beam rear axle of a vehicle, more preferably motor vehicle, is provided with two rigid trailing arms, which with their one end are each mounted on a vehicle body in a manner capable of being swiveled and at the other end of which a wheel carrier is each attached for the rotatable mounting of a vehicle wheel about its wheel center axis, as well as with a torsionally soft cross-tie connecting the two trailing arms with each other. Each wheel carrier, by means of at least three elastic wheel carrier bearings is fixed to the trailing arm when viewed in forward driving direction of the vehicle, at least two wheel carrier bearings are arranged behind the wheel center axis, and at least one wheel carrier bearing is arranged in front of the wheel center axis in such a manner that through the two wheel carrier bearings arranged behind the wheel center axis to define a swivel axis for the swiveling of the wheel carrier relative to the trailing arm.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 2008Date of Patent: February 22, 2011Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Gerd Bitz, Jürgen Siebeneick, Eckhardt Döhrer