Abstract: A suspension system includes four electronically controlled actuators, one at each of the four wheels. The actuators are each controlled by an electronic control unit. The left front and right front actuators are mechanically connected with each other. The left rear and the right rear actuators are also mechanically connected with each other. The only connection between the front two actuators and the rear two actuators is an electronic communication through the electronic control unit.

Abstract: A roll control system comprising a front torsion bar; a front first hydraulic actuator; a front second hydraulic actuator; a rear torsion bar; a rear first hydraulic actuator; a rear second hydraulic actuator; and control means connected to the hydraulic actuators and controlling the operation thereof on detection of a predetermined vehicle condition; wherein each hydraulic actuator comprises a first fluid chamber and a second fluid chamber; wherein the control means comprises a source of fluid pressure, a fluid reservoir, a pressure control valve fluidly connected between the pressure source and the reservoir, and at least three pressure relief valves each having two positions to fluidly connect the fluid chambers of the hydraulic actuators either to the pressure source or to the fluid reservoir; wherein the pressure relief valves are positioned on detection of the predetermined vehicle condition to apply a fluid pressure to the first fluid chamber of the first front hydraulic actuator and to the second flui

Abstract: The hydraulic suspension system comprises a suspension mechanism (100) for a traveling vehicle body, a suspension reference position variation mechanism (18) for varying a reference position of a suspension stroke of the suspension mechanism, and a stopped state detector (58) for detecting a state in which operation of the suspension mechanism (100) has stopped. The control management unit (60) controls the suspension reference position variation mechanism (18) so that when operation of the suspension mechanism (100) is detected by the stopped state detector (58) to be in a stopped state, the operation of the suspension mechanism (100) moves toward a target range, in preference to control based on a suspension stroke position obtained from a suspension stroke position sensor (37).

Abstract: A vehicle includes a semi-active suspension including suspension dampers controllably adjustable in accordance with electronic stability control commands and ride and handling commands. Vehicle steering response states, turning direction states and vehicle dynamics states are binary coded in respective state variables and suspension control calibrations are binary coded in calibration words. Integrity and security of state variables and calibration words are ensured in efficient binary digit resource allocation schemes.

Abstract: An air suspension system for a multi-axle vehicle has an air bag system including at least one air bag operatively associated with the vehicle wheels on selected wheel and axle sets to control relative movement between each of the selected wheels and a supporting frame structure of the vehicle. The system has an air-flow control arrangement to control the flow of air into each air bag to thereby control the relative movement of the wheels and vehicle frame structure. A pressurizing arrangement is provided to maintain a selected, predetermined pressure in the air bag system when the vehicle is at rest to thereby maintain a desired vehicle height. The pressurizing arrangement includes a valve to admit pressurized air to or exhaust air from the air bag system to maintain the predetermined vehicle height. The valve is actuated by a link associated with a rocker member connected to spaced axles of the vehicle.

Abstract: An active, independent suspension system has dual piston, compressible fluid struts (22). Each of the dual piston struts (22) has an outer cylinder (24) and an outer piston rod (30), which each respectively define exterior peripheries for an outer pressure chamber (32) and an inner pressure chamber (54). Pressures applied to a compressible fluid (56) in respective ones of the outer and inner pressure chambers (32, 54) urge the outer piston to extend from within the outer cylinder (24). A control system (240) is provided for actively controlling an amount of compressible fluid (56) disposed within each of the outer and inner chambers (32, 54).

Abstract: An air suspension system for a multi-axle vehicle having air bags (4,5; 6,7; 8,9; 10,11; 44 to 49) supporting either side of the axles (2,3; 41 to 43), including separate air lines (18 to 25; 50 to 55) respectively connecting each air bag to a level control valve (16,17; 56,57) via manifolds (26,27; M) and air lines (28,29; 54,55) to independently control air supply to the bags on either side, the separate air lines being of the same size and length to ensure that substantially the same volume of air is supplied to each bag to improve the responsiveness and stability of the system.

Abstract: An axle/suspension system for a heavy-duty vehicle, in which the vehicle includes a frame that extends in a longitudinal direction relative to the vehicle. The axle/suspension system is attached to the vehicle frame via at least one hanger and includes at least one beam, which includes a first end and a second end. The first end of the beam is connected to the hanger, and the second end of the beam immovably captures an axle, which extends in a transverse direction relative to the vehicle. The beam is formed of a composite material and has a substantially constant cross section in the transverse direction to provide sufficient strength to control roll forces encountered by the vehicle during operation.

Abstract: According to a method for controlling the air volume in a closed pneumatic spring system of a vehicle, an air-powered pump supplies at least two pneumatic springs and/or a compressed air reservoir with a specific air volume as needed such that the air pressure prevailing in the respective pneumatic spring and/or the compressed air reservoir is at a level which causes a vehicle body resting on the pneumatic spring to be positioned at a desired distance from the roadway or the vehicle axle.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for an adjustable suspension system for a vehicle comprises at least one strut. In one embodiment, the stanchion (or slider) is non-uniform with a major and minor circumferential stiffness and is adjustable relative to a fore and aft axis of the vehicle in order to provide a differing amount of stiffness relative thereto. In another embodiment, a portion of the stanchion is circular and a reinforcement is annularly disposed therearound with axial retention formations, The reinforcement has a non-uniform circumferential characteristic and is rotatable relative to the fore/aft axis of the vehicle.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A controllable suspension system for controlling the relative motion between a first body and a second body includes at least one strut including a magneto-rheological fluid damper. The fluid damper includes a piston rod guide disposed within a damper body. The piston rod guide has a passage therein for receiving a piston rod. A piston rod bearing assembly is disposed in the piston rod guide to engage with and support reciprocal motion of the piston rod. At least a first piston rod seal and at least a second piston rod seal are arranged to seal between the piston rod guide and the piston rod. A fluid chamber is defined between the piston rod guide and the piston rod. A piston rod guide gas charged accumulator is arranged between the piston rod and the damper body.

Abstract: A vehicle roll control system for a vehicle having a pair of front wheels and a pair of rear wheels each rotatable on an axle, comprising a front hydraulic actuator attached to the front torsion bar; a rear hydraulic actuator attached to the rear torsion bar; and control means connected to the front and rear hydraulic actuators and controlling the operation thereof on detection of a predetermined vehicle condition; wherein each front and rear hydraulic actuator comprises a housing, a piston making a sealing sliding fit inside the housing to define a first fluid chamber and a second fluid chamber, and a piston rod connected to the piston and extending through the second fluid chamber and out of the housing; wherein the control means acts on detection of the predetermined vehicle condition to apply a fluid pressure to the first fluid chambers of the front and rear hydraulic actuators and to apply a fluid pressure to the second fluid chambers of the front and rear hydraulic actuators; and wherein the control mea

Abstract: An air suspension system for a load carrying vehicle has multiple air bags associated with selected vehicle wheels to at least assist supporting the load and to control relative movement between the respective wheel and a supporting frame structure of the vehicle. A high flow-rate air tube connected to at least one air bag receives air from the connected air bag when air pressure in the air bag increases above that in the air tube. Air flows from the high flow rate air tube to a connected air bag when the air pressure in the air tube is above that of the air bag. The flow rate of air from the air tube to the air bag is controlled by the structure of the fittings between the respective air bags and the high flow-rate air tubes. A height valve maintains a predetermined pressure in the air bags when the vehicle is at rest.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for regulating the function of a suspension system are disclosed herein. Suspension characteristics often contribute to the efficiency of a suspended system. Depending on the desired operating parameters of the suspended system, it may be desirable to alter the functional characteristics of the suspension from time to time in order to maintain or increase efficiency. The suspension hereof may be selectively locked into a substantially rigid configuration, and the damping fluid may be phase separated and/or cooled to increase damping rate during use (or offset rate degradation). The suspension hereof may generate power usable to achieve any or all of the foregoing or to be stored for use elsewhere in the suspended system or beyond.

Abstract: An arrangement for a suspension for a load carrying vehicle is provided. The suspension is provided with air springs and comprises at least one front axle and at least two rear axles, and each rear axle is provided with at least one pair of corresponding suspension air springs and at least one air spring is provided for lifting one of the rear axles. The suspension air springs for at least the rearmost axle is connected to the air spring for lifting one of the rear axles by a conduit for compressed air, which conduit is provided with a controllable valve, whereby the controllable valve is arranged to open during a vehicle loading process. A vehicle provided with the arrangement, and a method for carrying out a loading operation using the arrangement, are also described.

Abstract: A hydraulic system incorporated into a vehicle is provided. The system includes a plurality of actuators for providing a desired configuration of a vehicle. A valve system is operatively coupled to the plurality of actuators for controlling a flow of pressurized fluid to the plurality of actuators to energize the actuators to produce, responsive to the desired configuration of the vehicle, a first configuration of a plurality of first configurations of the vehicle corresponding to the desired configuration of the vehicle, or a second configuration of a plurality of second configurations of the vehicle corresponding to the desired configuration of the vehicle.

Abstract: Complementary suspension device applicable between the hydro-pneumatic suspension systems of at least two wheels of a vehicle, which transfer the forces originating in said wheels to the aforementioned complementary device by means of displacement, and/or decanting, of the fluids of said suspension systems through the corresponding conduits, said device comprising two fluid distribution units connected in parallel by means of each joint conduit, between the hydro-pneumatic suspension systems of at least one pair of vehicle wheels, in such a way that for each pair of wheels the first distribution unit is capable of allowing the intake of fluid through the joint conduit with the suspension system of one of the wheels and, at the same time, lets fluid exit through the joint conduit with the suspension system of the other wheel, whereas the second unit only allows the intake of fluid through the joint conduits with the two suspension systems at the same time.

Abstract: A gas spring assembly that is suitable for use on a vehicle suspension system includes a first end member and a second end member that is spaced from the first end member. A flexible wall is secured between the first and second end members and at least partially defines a first gas chamber therebetween. A confinement at least partially forms a second gas chamber that is in communication with the first gas chamber. A porous flow restrictor is operatively disposed between the gas chambers. A suspension system including such a gas spring assembly as well as a method is also included.

Abstract: A suspension system for a vehicle, comprising a plurality of suspension cylinders such as shock absorbers (10, 12, 14, 16) which correspond to respective wheels of the vehicle and which have respective hydraulic chambers (28), and a control cylinder (48; 100) having a cylinder housing (52; 104), and a piston assembly (50; 102) which is fluid-tightly and slidably fitted in the cylinder housing and which includes a plurality of pistons (70, 72, 74, 76; 110, 112, 114) and at least one connecting rod (66, 68; 116, 118) connecting the plurality of pistons. The control cylinder has a plurality of hydraulic chambers (70, 72, 74, 76; 130, 132, 134, 136, 138, 140) to which are respectively connected the hydraulic chambers of the plurality of suspension cylinders. The plurality of pistons of the piston assembly include at least two pistons which have respective different diameters.

Abstract: A method of controlling the roll stiffness and roll moment distribution of a vehicle suspension system of a vehicle, the vehicle suspension system including front and rear vehicle support means for supporting the vehicle and any load carried by the vehicle, and at least one roll moment reaction means for providing a variable roll stiffness for the vehicle suspension system; The method including the step of adjusting the roll stiffness and the roll moment distribution of the vehicle suspension system in dependence on the load carried by at least a rear or front of the vehicle.

Abstract: A mounting bracket assembly capable of operatively engaging an associated jounce tongue of an associated vehicle suspension and supporting a supplemental air spring assembly in spaced relation to an associated sprung or unsprung mass of the associated vehicle. The mounting bracket assembly can include a first bracket supported on the associated jounce tongue and a second bracket supported on the first bracket. A supplemental suspension system can include an air spring assembly and a mounting spring assembly. A supplemental suspension system kit is also included.

Abstract: A dual lane, multi-axle transport vehicle for moving heavy loads includes a forward module mounted on a plurality of axles and a rearward module mounted on a plurality of axles. The forward module is mechanically connected to the rearward module for providing a dual lane transport body. The forward module and the rearward module of the transport body each have a single central spine wherein the axles of both the forward module and the rearward module are each attached to the corresponding single central spine. The axles of both the forward module and the rearward module have an axle spacing of at least six feet. A hydraulic suspension is provided for dynamically stabilizing the axles for reducing axle yaw. An axle steering system having a plurality of steering rods controls the position of the axles of both the forward module and the rearward module.

Abstract: An electronic height control system for a vehicle chassis air suspension is modified to provide bimodal operation. In the second mode of operation the chassis air suspension system is maintain a stationary in a stable, level position to serve as a base for a mobile aerial lift unit installed on the vehicle. Operation of the suspension system in its stabilization and leveling mode is triggered by activation of a vehicle power take-off unit (“PTO”) used to position the aerial lift unit.

Abstract: A method for weighing a payload of a transport vehicle, a transport vehicle and a bogie structure. Vertical loads exerted on wheel suspension of the transport vehicle are measured with sensors and the measurement data is conveyed to a calculating unit of weighing. Further, on a side surface of a horizontal arm belonging to the bogie structure there is arranged a sensor for measuring the vertical load exerted on the horizontal arm.

Abstract: A vehicle height adjusting apparatus includes air spring portion, an air supply source, a switching valve causing a total air volume of the air spring portion to be constituted by only a main air chamber and by a sum of the main air chamber and a sub air chamber, an auxiliary valve, operating state determining portion for determining an operating state of the vehicle, and controlling portion for controlling the adjusting valve, the switching valve and the auxiliary valve.

Abstract: A suspension system includes first and second wheel carriers, a stabilizer having a first end and a second end, the stabilizer being coupled to the wheel carriers, a first cylinder/piston unit being arranged between the first end of the stabilizer and the first wheel carrier and a second cylinder/piston unit being arranged between the second end of the stabilizer and the second wheel carrier. Each cylinder/piston unit is a double-acting cylinder/piston unit and the two cylinder/piston units are cross-connected.

Abstract: A vehicle stabilizing system includes a vehicle that has a suspension assembly. The vehicle has a first lateral side and a second lateral side. A horizontal level detecting apparatus is mounted on the vehicle and detecting centrifugal force is applied to the vehicle. A pair of bladders is operationally coupled to the horizontal level detecting apparatus and each is mounted to the suspension assembly. One of the bladders is mechanically coupled to a first wheel positioned adjacent to the first lateral side and the other one of the bladders is mechanically coupled to a second wheel positioned adjacent to the second lateral side. The bladders are selectively inflated to increase a distance between a chassis of the vehicle and a ground surface to counteract centrifugal and gravitational forces detected by the horizontal level detecting apparatus.

Abstract: A combined central control unit is provided for an air suspension system and/or an air processing system. The air suspension system has an electronic control system characterized in that the electronic control system is integrated in the electronic control of the air processing system. Similarly, an air processing system has an electronic control system characterized in that the electronic control system is integrated in the electronic control of the air suspension system.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a suspension device for the load-bearing and resilient support of a wheel in a motor vehicle. The device comprises at least one spring cylinder with a piston which is guided in a manner moveable relative to it in a pressure cylinder. A driving device converts pivoting movement of a wheel oscillating-crank supporting arm, which movement oscillates about an oscillating-crank axis into the relative movements between the pressure cylinder and the piston. The piston acts counter to an elastically compressible spring medium in order to produce a load-bearing supporting spring force. The driving device is designed as a gearwheel mechanism.

Abstract: An air-suspension system for vehicles, in particular for commercial vehicles, including at least one air-bellows valve assigned to an air-spring bellows or a group of air-spring bellows of the front axle for individually aerating and venting this air-spring bellows or this group of air-spring bellows; at least one air-bellows valve assigned to an air-spring bellows or a group of air-spring bellows of the rear axle for individually aerating and venting this air-spring bellows or this group of air-spring bellows; as well as at least one central aeration valve for supplying the air-bellows valves assigned to the air-spring bellows of the front axle and the rear axle with compressed air from a compressed-air supply; and at least one central venting valve for exhausting compressed air from the air-bellows valves assigned to the air-spring bellows of the front axle and the rear axle, to an air vent.

Abstract: A low profile chassis and suspension system for a road vehicle. The chassis supports a payload section or cargo compartment, such as for a delivery truck, ambulance, or shuttle bus. The chassis includes a largely planar frame having a top surface which is located beneath the rotational axes of the rear wheels. The wheel suspension system is particularly compact and close to the road surface. A trailing arm-type wheel support supports a stub axle in a cantilevered fashion. A spring urges the wheel support apart from the frame. A planar portion of the wheel support, the wheel support pivot joints, and the spring are located beneath the rotational axis of the wheel. In another embodiment, the frame includes a recessed pocket which facilitates use of ramp for wheel chair access.

Abstract: Apparatus for the active stabilization of the rolling of a vehicle that has at least two axles that each have at least two wheels. The axles are each equipped with a transverse stabilizer that is hydraulically actuated by a directional control valve. The transverse stabilizers are operated by respective hydraulic motors. A pressure supply pump applies different hydraulic pressure levels through respective pressure limiting valves. The directional control valve is actuated hydraulically by a directly controlled control valve.

Abstract: An apparatus having a suspension system with a first part which is acted upon by a mass, a second part, and also an air spring arranged between this first part and this second part. At least one supplementary volume device for air is provided, the volume of which can be varied in a controlled manner, and also a first control device for adjusting the volume of the supplementary volume device.

Abstract: An improved trailer wheel system including a trailer mounting support, a fender mounting support, a main suspension support arm and an air bag. The trailer mounting support is mounted to a trailer platform. The fender mounting support is attached to the trailer mounting support. One end of the main suspension support arm is mounted to one end of the trailer mounting support. The air bag is attached to the other end of the main suspension support arm and the fender mounting support. A wheel axle is mounted to the main suspension support arm and a wheel is mounted to the wheel axle. The air bag is used to raise or lower the trailer for more efficient loading and unloading, as well as acting as an anti-theft device, and providing a smoother ride for the equipment being transported and the towing vehicle.

Abstract: A cam shaft support/enclosure assembly for brake systems of heavy-duty vehicles is mounted on a beam of an axle/suspension system and includes a cam tube. A bracket for mounting the cam tube on the beam includes a pair of plates that are mounted on the beam. Each one of the plates is formed with an opening for receiving the cam tube and includes at least three tabs, and preferably four tabs, that extend outwardly from each respective plate adjacent the opening and contact the outer surface of the cam tube. Each tab includes a generally arched and optionally textured face for mating with an outer surface of the cam tube, which may also be optionally textured, so that when the plates are mounted the tabs engage the cam tube in a press-type fit, minimizing movement of the cam tube.

Abstract: A rear suspension structure for large vehicles increases durability of a bump stopper and an air spring, thus markedly enhancing the riding comfort and handling ability of a vehicle. Furthermore, the amount of air to be drawn into and discharged from the air spring is increased, so that stable handling ability of the vehicle is ensured, thus markedly enhancing traveling stability of the vehicle. As well, the present invention ensures the lateral rigidity of a rear axle and prevents deflection of the vehicle when traveling.

Abstract: A four-point wishbone-shaped linkage is disclosed for use in a suspension system. The wishbone-shaped linkage includes a base and two limbs extending away from the base creating a large mouth open area between the limbs and base. The base includes a bar and bushing assembly extending laterally therethrough. Also disclosed are suspension systems incorporating the four-point wishbone-shaped linkage. The suspension system connects an axle to a vehicle chassis having a first frame member and a second frame member extending longitudinally on opposite sides of the chassis, respectively. The first and second frame hangers are mounted to the first and second frame member, respectively, a cross member connects the first and second frame hangers and the wishbone-shaped linkage is pivotally connected to the axle seats mounted to the axle and to the cross member. The suspension system also can include air springs, shock absorbers and torque rods.

Abstract: Disclosed is a level control system in which the operational readiness of the compressor (2) is tested by connecting the pressure sensor (10) to the output (6) of the compressor (2) via a compressed-air sensor line (8). All other compressed-air lines that are connected to the output (6) of the compressor (2) are locked by shutting directional control valves (201 to 20d and 30). The compressor (2) is then switched on and it is tested how rapidly the pressure increases on the pressure sensor (10). If the increase per interval exceeds a defined threshold value, the compressor is operationally ready.

Abstract: A tank for containing compressed air for supplying the air to one or more pneumatically-operated components, devices, or systems of a heavy-duty vehicle such as a tractor-trailer or straight truck, also serves as part of the structure of the frame or subframe of the vehicle. The frame or subframe includes a pair of spaced-apart, parallel, elongated and longitudinally extending main members. One or more of the tanks also serve as interconnecting cross members of the frame or subframe structure. Each tank/cross member generally extends between and is perpendicular to the main members and is secured to the main members and/or suspension hangers and/or the air springs to form a rigid, integrated frame or subframe structure having reduced weight, yet which is capable of reacting the loads imparted to the structure by the axle/suspension system during operation of the vehicle.

Abstract: A vehicle suspension system includes an airbag (10) arranged to act substantially horizontally so as to apply a substantially horizontal force to a horizontally movable force-transmitting member (12) and a parallelogram linkage (16, 17, 18, 19) that acts between the force-transmitting member (12) and a part (14) of the vehicle chassis (10).

Abstract: A suspension system dampens motion between two components of a vehicle, such as the wheels and the chassis. An assembly of a cylinder and a piston is connected to both components. The piston defines first and second chambers in the cylinder and has a shaft with an end surface exposed to pressure within a third chamber of the cylinder. A first accumulator is connected to the first chamber by a first accumulator valve and a second accumulator valve connects a second accumulator to the second chamber. A damping valve alternately connects the third chamber to either the second chamber or a fluid tank wherein that connection defines the stiffness of the suspension system and is made in response to force acting on the suspension system. A load leveling circuit also is described.

Abstract: A vehicle Active Roll Control System having a two stage spool valve that provides hydraulic fluid at different pressures to front and rear actuators for varying the torque applied to associated roll bars.

Abstract: A pneumatic suspension system for a vehicle includes pneumatic bellows connectable by means of a valve arrangement to at least one other component of the pneumatic suspension system in order to selectively increase or decrease the amount of compressed air therein. The other component contains at least one volume. Undesirable changes in the amount of compressed air inside the pneumatic bellows arising as a result of pressure compensation are avoided or reduced to a non-disruptive level by a return valve between the valve arrangement and the volume which prevents compressed air from flowing between the pneumatic bellows and the volume in one direction of flow.

Abstract: A suspension system for suspending a vehicle frame above a plurality of ground-engaging wheels includes a wheel-carrying axle comprising a first end a second end, and a pair of frame bracket assemblies each comprising a resiliently-bushed pivotable connection defining a pivot axis, wherein the frame bracket assemblies are operably coupled to opposite sides of the frame bracket, and wherein the resiliently-bushed pivotable connection comprises a substantially cylindrically-shaped bushing. The suspension system also includes a pair of trailing arms each comprising a first end operably coupled to the first end and the second end of the axle, respectively, and a second end comprising an aperture that receives the bushing of one of the frame bracket assemblies therein, wherein the aperture of the second end of each trailing arm is nonsymmetrical, thereby causing a nonsymmetrical compression of the bushing about the pivot axis.

Abstract: A hydraulic system for use in a motorized vehicle including a pressure source, a valve fluidly coupled to the pressure source, and an actuator fluidly coupled to the valve. The actuator includes an outer casing and a piston slidably received in the outer casing such that the piston defines a piston chamber and a rod chamber in the outer casing. The actuator includes a rod coupled to the piston on a side of the piston facing the rod chamber. The valve is configured such that when the valve is in an open position the valve provides fluid communication to the rod chamber and provides fluid communication to the piston chamber. Fluid flowing through the valve to the rod chamber passes through a restricted orifice having cross sectional area that is smaller than the cross sectional area of any orifice that would be passed through by fluid flowing through the valve to the piston chamber.

Abstract: A vehicle suspension system for use with a vehicle includes a first hydraulic cylinder, a second hydraulic cylinder, and a fluid circuit. The first hydraulic cylinder and the second hydraulic cylinder each include an upper chamber and a lower chamber. The fluid circuit is hydraulically coupled to the first hydraulic cylinder and the second hydraulic cylinder and includes a valve that is movable between a first position and a second position. When the valve is in the first position, the upper and lower chambers of each hydraulic cylinder are hydraulically coupled to the opposite chamber of the other cylinder. When the valve is in the second position, the upper chamber of each hydraulic cylinder is coupled to the lower chamber of the same cylinder. The valve is configured to move between the first position and the second position in response to manual input.

Abstract: A distributed compliance air-ride axle/suspension system includes an integral structure preferably formed of a lightweight composite material, replacing traditional beams and an axle. The composite structure includes a plurality of plates of various sizes and shapes, with the size, shape and arrangement of the plates being determined by the load capacity model of a specific vehicle application. Traditional axle spindle ends are mounted on the integral plate structure, together with pivot bushings, air springs, and shock absorbers, to complete the air-ride axle/suspension system. The system in turn is pivotally mounted on frame brackets of a heavy-duty vehicle such as a semi-trailer or dump truck. Forces, loads and/or stresses imposed on the axle/suspension system during vehicle operation are distributed generally throughout the composite structure to achieve the desired structural roll compliance of the axle/suspension system for the particular application.

Abstract: A gas spring suspension system that maximizes the travel of the suspension system. The suspension system includes an outer tube and an inner tube slidable within the outer tube. A piston assembly is slidably mounted in the inner tube to sealingly separate a positive spring and a negative gas chamber. A floating piston is slidably mounted in the inner tube to separate a gas chamber from the negative gas chamber. The positive spring biases the inner and outer tubes apart from each other and the negative gas chamber biases the inner and outer tubes toward each other. The floating piston is configured to slidably displace within the inner tube in response to pressure differentials between the negative gas chamber and the gas chamber.

Abstract: A pneumatic suspension system for a vehicle includes a compressed air accumulator, a compressed air transport device, at least one pneumatic bellows and an electrically controllable reversing valve used to connect the compressed air accumulator to a suction connection of the compressed air transport device, in order to increase the amount of air in the pneumatic bellows in a first switching position, and to connect an outlet connection of the compressed air transport device to the pneumatic bellows, also used to connect the pneumatic bellows to the suction connection of the compressed air transport device and the outlet connection of the compressed air transport device to the pressure accumulator in a second switching position in order to reduce the amount of air in the pneumatic bellows. The reversing valve can be pre-controlled with the compressed air of the pneumatic suspension system.