Static Site Leveling (e.g., Camper, Mobile Home, Recreational Vehicle, Work Vehicle) Patents (Class 280/6.153)
  • Patent number: 11479309
    Abstract: Systems, methods and apparatus are provided for leveling and/or supporting a plant chassis. In some embodiments, a first set of actuators carry out a leveling routine and a controller monitors a pressure in a second set of actuators as the second set of actuators is extended.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2022
    Assignee: SUPERIOR INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventors: Matthew Voigt, Brett Nelson, Scott Oberg
  • Patent number: 11052878
    Abstract: A stabilizing system includes a plurality of jacks, each operated by a corresponding hydraulic actuator. A hydraulic fluid transfer pump supplies hydraulic fluid to and receives hydraulic fluid from one or more pressure chambers of the actuator. A pilot-operated check or directional valve may be provided in fluid communication with one or more of the pressure chambers and configured to regulate the flow of hydraulic fluid to and from the pressure chamber. A directional control valve may connect the pump output with the jacks via respective pilot-operated directional valves. The directional control valve may include a plurality of switch positions respectively connecting the pump output with pairs of the jacks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2021
    Assignee: Lippert Components, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Kinder, Robert L. Tiedge, Nicholas Cornett
  • Patent number: 10214187
    Abstract: A trailer jacking system includes a trailer that has a pair of axles, a first lateral side and a second lateral side. A pair of bars is provided and each of the bars is coupled between each of the axles. A jack is selectively positioned beneath the bars for jacking the trailer. Each of the bars is oriented collinear with an associated one of the first and second lateral sides. In this way each of the bars facilitates the trailer to be leveled between the first and second lateral sides when the trailer is jacked. A plurality of u-bolts is provided and each of the u-bolts bolts is coupled between the bars and an associated one of the axles to retain the bars on the axles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2019
    Inventor: Rex Martindale
  • Patent number: 9579988
    Abstract: A work vehicle which is provided with a battery and at least one motor, the motor being driven by electric power supplied from the battery, the work vehicle including: a charging terminal to which a feed terminal provided in a charging device disposed at an outside of the work vehicle is connected at a time of charging the battery; a communication terminal to which a communication terminal for the charging device to communicate with the work vehicle is connected at the time of charging the battery; and an in-vehicle controller which controls the work vehicle, and controls the charging device through the communication terminal at the time of charging the battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2017
    Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.
    Inventor: Yoshihiro Dougan
  • Patent number: 9573796
    Abstract: An apparatus for partially supporting a vehicle is provided especially for a vehicle having a very limited area on its underside within which to safely apply an upward force, including vehicles with a small distance between the bottom of the chassis and the ground such as a sports car which allows the user to position a lifting jack at the proper access jack point for lifting a portion of the vehicle, and lifting the jack and vehicle portion upwardly to a desired height. The legs of the jack stand can be temporarily inserted into a support member engaging the vehicle and the jack. The jack stand includes a support member with open ends telescopically connected to a pair of rigid legs that are curved and each of the legs are telescopically attached to supporting bases using locking pins. Once the jack stand is installed, the lifting jack can be removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Inventor: Frank Ceravolo
  • Patent number: 9452655
    Abstract: A ride height control system includes a velocity monitor, corner ride height sensors, a processor receiving height inputs from the height sensors and velocity inputs from the velocity monitor. A cross-flow averager cooperates between the front airbags and is in communication with the processor. The cross-flow averager and the processor cooperate with the height sensors corresponding to the front corners, so as to provide a single pseudo height controller controlling, by selective actuation of the cross-flow averager, airflow between the corresponding front corners. The velocity monitor monitors forward velocity of the vehicle and provides velocity information to the processor. The processor causes the cross-flow averager to isolate the front airbags when the velocity is above a non-zero pre-set velocity and to allow a cross-flow of the airflow between the front airbags below the pre-set velocity. The pre-set velocity may be a range of velocities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2016
    Assignee: Valid Manufacturing Ltd.
    Inventors: Grant W. Hiebert, Jack W. Fenkhuber
  • Patent number: 9061706
    Abstract: A tracked vehicle having a plurality of self contained tracked drive units, each unit including an electric motor to propel a track belt, and a plurality of road wheels and tensioning wheels. Each tracked drive unit is connected to the vehicle by affixing devices and by electrical, data, and fluid lines, and is separable from the vehicle by detachment of the affixing devices and disconnection of the electrical, data, and fluid lines. The tracked vehicle can locomote upon the tracked drive units remaining after the separation a tracked drive unit. A tracked vehicle with remote tracked drive jettisoning capability, wherein a tracked drive unit is affixed to the hull of the tracked vehicle by explosive bolts; the electrical, fluid, and data lines are severable by severing charges; and the tracked drive is jettisonable by remote commands to detonate the explosive bolts and sever the electrical, data, and fluid lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2015
    Inventors: Vitaly Grossman, Boris Mezir, Mike Nem
  • Patent number: 9050947
    Abstract: A hydraulic leveling system for a vehicle has at least one set of hydraulic jacks that are extended by applying hydraulic pump pressure to an extend side of the jacks and are retracted by relieving hydraulic pressure from the extend side and applying hydraulic pressure to a retract side of the jacks. A pressure sensor has a pressure set point that when it is exceeded the system generates a signal indicating retraction of the jacks. The system operates so that after the pressure sensor set point is exceeded, the system turns off the pump and continues to hold open a valve that applies pressure from the pump to the retract side of the jacks for a period of time and that permits flow to continue from the extend side of the jacks to tank. After such period of time the system once again checks whether the pressure sensor is still activated and if it is not still activated, the system turns the pump back on and continues to retract the jacks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2015
    Assignee: Actuant Corporation
    Inventor: Harold W. Geates
  • Publication number: 20150137463
    Abstract: An aft suspension system for a pickup truck comprises four corner assemblies, where one corner assembly is located at a suspension position corresponding to each of the wheel corners for the vehicle. An air supply unit includes a reservoir, a compressor, and an ECU is fluidly connected to the corner assemblies. The air supply unit is capable of independently adjusting the corner assemblies from one another. The air suspension system is operable to place the corner assemblies in a unloading position or a trailer, which corresponds to two of the corner assemblies in raised positions and the other of the two corner assemblies located in lowered positions to create a maximum height differential between the front and rear corner assemblies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2013
    Publication date: May 21, 2015
    Applicant: Continental Automotive Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Trevor B. McLennan, Kent R. Young
  • Patent number: 8981918
    Abstract: A warning system for a vehicle having an air suspension system can include an indicator, an event data recorder, and a controller. The controller can be configured to determine a load on a front axle and a rear axle when the vehicle is in a static condition and compare the determined load on the front and rear axles to a predetermined load threshold for each of the front and rear axles. A warning signal can be provided to the indicator indicative of at least one of the determined loads exceeding the corresponding predetermined load threshold upon the controller determining one of the determined loads exceeds the corresponding predetermined load threshold. Data indicative of at least one of the determined loads exceeding the corresponding predetermined threshold can be communicated to the event data recorder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Chrysler Group LLC
    Inventor: Satish Panse
  • Patent number: 8960691
    Abstract: The invention relates to a vehicle oscillation device having two vehicle parts arranged to be movable relative to each other, wherein one of the two vehicle parts is supported in a substantially horizontally oscillatory manner in relation to the further one of the two vehicle parts in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle and/or in the width direction of the vehicle, wherein said two vehicle parts are coupled with each other in an pivoting manner by a transmission system having more than one transmission element, and a damper is provided in a damping manner between a first transmission element and one of the two vehicle parts or a further transmission element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: Grammer AG
    Inventors: Erwin Haller, Jens Kolb
  • Patent number: 8919801
    Abstract: An autonomous transport robot for transporting a payload, the autonomous transport robot including a drive section assembly having at least one motor and a pair of drive wheels coupled to the motor, a frame configured to support a payload, a transfer arm connected to the frame and configured for the autonomous transfer of payload to and from the frame, and a suspension system movably connecting the drive section assembly and the frame allowing relative movement between the frame and the drive section assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Symbotic, LLC
    Inventors: Stephen C. Toebes, Robert Sullivan
  • Patent number: 8794641
    Abstract: A micro weight enclosure when fully loaded with gear and equipment is capable of being towed by vehicles with gross tow weight ratings of less than 1000 lbs. This enclosure does not utilize a traditional chassis, rather uses common manufacturing of panel assemblies mechanically attached together forming the basic structural elements required for strength at minimal weight and reduced wind drag. The enclosure, being ergonomically optimized, allows enough space to stand in one location, but sit, recline, or lay prone in a most comfortable fashion, and to attend to human hygiene and related activity in a secure protected environment. The independent suspension couples directly to the enclosure lowers the vehicle, reducing wind drag, allowing enclosure leveling, improves ingress, egress, and overall occupant comfort. The enclosure being acceptable for day travel; surfing or partying in urban and rural environments as example, or extended travel; road trips or camping as example.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Inventor: Christopher Muller
  • Patent number: 8783644
    Abstract: A controlled pressure release valve includes a valve body having a gas inlet for connection to a gas container and a gas outlet for delivering gas to a protected area. The controlled valve comprises a slidable spool housed in the valve body that is slidable between a first position and a second position. The slidable spool has a first end and a second end. A primary flow passage connects the gas inlet and the gas outlet and increases with lineal movement of the slidable spool. The sliding spool is biased towards the first position by a gas pressure applied by the second chamber and a spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Chubb International Holdings Limited
    Inventors: Fanping Sun, Zaffir Chaudhry, Muhidin A. Lelic, Mihai Dorobantu, Stevo Mijanovic, Lisa A. Prill, Umesh G. Vaidya
  • Patent number: 8757637
    Abstract: A system for leveling a vehicle which includes three zones with a first zone at the front end, and the second and third zones on opposite sides of the vehicle. All zones include leveling jacks, each having a blind side and a rod side. At least one leveling jack is located in the first zone, and at least two leveling jacks are located in each of the second and third zones, straddling the wheel on that side. The blind sides of the jacks in each zone are connected. In operation, once the vehicle is stationary, all of the jacks are extended from a retracted position to an extended position meeting the surface upon which the vehicle is located. Fluid is then applied to the blind side of one of the second and third zone leveling jacks to raise the lower of the two sides. The front end is then leveled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Lippert Components, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Tiedge
  • Patent number: 8696010
    Abstract: An autonomous transport robot for transporting a payload, the autonomous transport robot including a drive section assembly having at least one motor and a pair of drive wheels coupled to the motor, a frame configured to support a payload, a transfer arm connected to the frame and configured for the autonomous transfer of payload to and from the frame, and a suspension system movably connecting the drive section assembly and the frame allowing relative movement between the frame and the drive section assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Symbotic, LLC
    Inventors: Stephen C. Toebes, Robert Sullivan
  • Publication number: 20130127125
    Abstract: A micro weight enclosure when fully loaded with gear and equipment is capable of being towed by vehicles with gross tow weight ratings of less than 1000 lbs. This enclosure does not utilize a traditional chassis, rather uses common manufacturing of panel assemblies mechanically attached together forming the basic structural elements required for strength at minimal weight and reduced wind drag. The enclosure, being ergonomically optimized, allows enough space to stand in one location, but sit, recline, or lay prone in a most comfortable fashion, and to attend to human hygiene and related activity in a secure protected environment. The independent suspension couples directly to the enclosure lowers the vehicle, reducing wind drag, allowing enclosure leveling, improves ingress, egress, and overall occupant comfort. The enclosure being acceptable for day travel; surfing or partying in urban and rural environments as example, or extended travel; road trips or camping as example.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2012
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Inventor: Christopher Muller
  • Patent number: 8439373
    Abstract: Described herein is a hydraulic suspension system mounted on a vehicle, including a plurality of hydraulic suspension units having a section of the vehicle corresponding thereto, and a hydraulic power device in communication with the plurality of hydraulic suspension units for providing a hydraulic fluid under pressure to actuate the plurality of hydraulic suspension units. The hydraulic suspension system mounted on a vehicle further includes a plurality of hydraulic valve assemblies associated with each of the plurality of hydraulic suspension units, wherein the plurality of hydraulic valve assemblies are in fluid communication between the plurality of hydraulic suspension units and the hydraulic power device, and a control device for controlling each of the hydraulic valve assemblies associated with each of the plurality of hydraulic suspension units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Michael Deegan, Paul Nephi Lowe
  • Patent number: 8306696
    Abstract: A method and system for positioning a vehicle chassis in approximate alignment with a predetermined datum are provided. The vehicle includes a first longitudinal end adapted to be pivotally connected to a substantially fixed point and a second longitudinal end including at least one axle and an operatively associated two-corner fluid suspension system. According to the method, the fluid suspension system controls the alignment of the vehicle chassis to be aligned with an artificial horizon represented as the predetermined datum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Driveright Holdings, Ltd.
    Inventors: Gregory A. Holbrook, Joseph A. Bounds
  • Patent number: 8265833
    Abstract: A system for determining when one or more jacks on a vehicle have contacted the ground may include a pitch sensor that senses a pitch angle of the vehicle and a roll sensor that senses a roll angle of the vehicle. A jack extension system operatively associated with the vehicle jacks extends and retracts the one or more jacks on the vehicle. A control system operatively associated with the pitch sensor, the roll sensor, and the jack extension system monitors the pitch and roll sensors to determine the pitch and roll angles of the vehicle. The control system operates the jack extension system to lower the jacks to the ground and determines that the jacks have contacted the ground based on detected changes in the pitch and roll angles of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Flanders Electric, Ltd.
    Inventor: Edward Curtis Stacy, II
  • Patent number: 8215673
    Abstract: A controller commands a jack drive to extend and retract a jack leg relative to a jack base along a stroke having retraction and extension limits. The controller updates a perceived present leg position value in response to position change signals from a position change sensor. The controller occasionally applies compensation factors to the perceived present leg position value in the extension direction. The controller resets the perceived present leg position value whenever the jack leg reaches the retraction limit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Innovative Design Solutions
    Inventors: Robert Ford, Shawn Haley, Mark Woloszyk, John Manfreda
  • Patent number: 8219262
    Abstract: Disclosed is a pneumatic level control system equalizer of a motor vehicle equipped with a battery and a generator supplying the battery, as well as a compressor driven by an electric motor and associated with the level control system equalizer, the electric motor of the compressor being only supplied with electric current by the vehicle battery and/or generator in certain conditions. The power requirements of the level control system equalizer can be pre-evaluated for a change of level and/or a filling of the pressure tank to be performed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Continental Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Alexander Stiller
  • Patent number: 8155835
    Abstract: A method and system for adjusting a relative leveled height of a sprung mass of a vehicle to an unsprung mass of the vehicle. The method also includes receiving an input from an operator for incrementally/decrementally changing the height of the sprung mass. A system for performing the method is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Driveright Holdings, Ltd.
    Inventor: Gregory A. Holbrook
  • Patent number: 8145392
    Abstract: A system and method for controlling an automatic leveling of heavy equipment. The system, in which a lower frame having a traveling unit and an upper frame are combined together by a tilting unit, includes a sensor unit, provided in the equipment, for sensing twist angles of the lower frame and the upper frame against a reference horizontal surface and a traveling speed of the equipment. A control unit receives the twist angles and the traveling speed, sets a limit of an operation time for the automatic leveling in a standstill state of the equipment while calculating a corrected angle to which a twist angle of the upper frame is to be corrected, without setting the limit of the operation time for the automatic leveling, in a traveling state of the equipment, and generates a control signal for instructing an operation of a tilting unit in accordance with the corrected angle. A driving unit performs a tilting control through the tilting unit in accordance with the received control signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: Volvo Construction Equipment Holdings Sweden AB
    Inventors: Jin Seop Kim, Chang Soo Lee, In Woo Kim
  • Patent number: 8136840
    Abstract: A height-adjustable support (10) for semi-trailers or the like, comprising a support outer tube (13) which can be fastened to a chassis of the semi-trailer, a slidable support inner tube (14) arranged in the support outer tube (13), at whose lower end region a foot (15) is fastened and which is connected with a nut (17) located on a spindle (16) which is drivable by means of a transmission wherein the transmission has at least a bevel gear stage (20, 24) and a shiftable transmission area located upstream having gearwheels with spur toothing for a fast-gear operation and a low-gear operation, and wherein the at least present gearwheels and pinions, i.e.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: SAF-Holland GmbH
    Inventor: Reinhold Riedl
  • Patent number: 8086370
    Abstract: A stabilizer system for an industrial vehicle includes one or more stabilizer cylinders mounted to the industrial vehicle, wherein the stabilizer cylinders are configured to contact the ground when deployed. The stabilizer system further includes a pressure sensor configured to determine a hydraulic system pressure, and a processor configured to calculate a stabilizing pressure to be applied to the one or more stabilizer cylinders. The stabilizing pressure is based on the hydraulic system pressure in order to improve a forward stability of the industrial vehicle when the one or more stabilizer cylinders are deployed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Inventor: Eduard Tollenaar
  • Patent number: 8056677
    Abstract: This lift system serves as a powered ladder having a small footprint. The system is divided into two subchasses with a mast fixedly attached to a first subchassis for support of a liftable platform which may carry a human operator. Maneuverability is accomplished by a virtual articulating joint between the two subchasses. The joint comprises hydraulic cylinders operating in conjunction with wheel struts to form a three-point support. Articulation enables the lift system to be adjusted on sloped or uneven terrain to maintain the mast in a vertical orientation. One use of the lift system is to carry a fruit picker into an orchard or vineyard and to position the picker to work efficiently. The lift system may carry a robot and may be controlled either locally or remotely.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: Roberts Equipment, Inc.
    Inventors: Roy Roberts, Fred K. O'Brien
  • Publication number: 20110169231
    Abstract: A system and method for leveling a vehicle when stationary. The system includes three zones with a first zone at the front end, and the second and third zones on opposite sides of the vehicle. All zones include leveling jacks, each having a blind side and a rod side. At least one leveling jack is located in the first zone, and at least two leveling jacks are located in each of the second and third zones, straddling the wheel on that side, and the blind sides of the jacks in each zone are connected together. The rod sides of all of the jacks are connected to a common fluid line, which typically is low fluid or pressure free. In operation, once the vehicle is stationary, all of the jacks are extended from a retracted position to an extended position meeting the surface upon which the vehicle is located.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2011
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Applicant: LIPPERT COMPONENTS, INC.
    Inventor: Robert Tiedge
  • Patent number: 7926600
    Abstract: A vehicle leveling assembly includes a plurality of jack assemblies corresponding to four quadrants of a vehicle, and a plurality of sensors for determining jack position and rate of movement. A method of detecting contacting between the shafts of the jack assemblies and the ground includes measuring pulse width of current emitted by the hall effect sensor to monitor the speed of the shafts and recognizing contact with the ground when the shaft slows down. A method of detecting contacting between the shafts of the jack assemblies and the ground includes measuring the electric motor current signal and correlating a pulse from the current signal to the electric motor revolutions per minute and travel of the shafts. A method of calibrating the leveling assembly includes measuring a change in inclination as the jack assemblies are extended a known distance to determine the distance between the jack assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Assignee: Dura Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Charles Lee Flynn, Christopher E. Curtis
  • Patent number: 7918465
    Abstract: The adjustable height trailer is a fifth wheel-type trailer with a single rear axle supporting the rear of the trailer and a fifth wheel hitch supporting the front. The rear axle and hitch have adjustable height suspensions, allowing the trailer to be lowered or raised uniformly while remaining hitched to the towing vehicle. One embodiment is configured as a livestock trailer with a series of stall positions therein. The loading and exit doors are generally diagonally opposite one another. A series of adjustably positionable partitions is installed on overhead tracks, with a partition placed between each animal as they are boarded and positioned in the trailer. Animals depart the trailer through the opposite door, with the partitions being repositioned correspondingly. The trailer suspension allows the trailer to be lowered to the underlying surface to facilitate loading and unloading animals therefrom, or other commodities, depending upon the trailer configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Inventor: Donald C. Metzger
  • Patent number: 7815200
    Abstract: A high accuracy medical trailer leveling system capable of detecting at least three level orientations including level along a longitudinal direction, level along a lateral direction at the front of the trailer, and level along a lateral direction at the rear of the trailer. The system also includes sensors that detect a level orientation in the longitudinal direction at the front of the trailer and a level orientation in the longitudinal direction at the rear of the trailer. A touch pad has buttons for controlling the system and a display screen, the display screen being capable of displaying a level condition in a particular location of the trailer and direction. The display screen can display the level orientation of side to side, front; side to side, rear; and front to back, and can also display the angle of inclination. One set of lights on the control pad indicates which jacks to actuate to level the vehicle, and another set of lights indicates which jacks are being actuated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: Actuant Corporation
    Inventor: Nikesh Bakshi
  • Patent number: 7806417
    Abstract: A means to average the left and right tire height positions relative to the chassis of a vehicle having an independent suspension system. The averaging means uses a rigid member having a first end and a second end wherein the first end is combined with the driver's side independent suspension and the second end is combined with the passenger's side independent suspension. As each side of the vehicle's suspension moves up and down, the ends of the rigid member also move up and down. A sensor determines the average height of the rigid member and communicates that information to the ride-height control system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: HWH Corporation
    Inventors: Paul Edmund Hanser, Marc Frerichs
  • Patent number: 7775529
    Abstract: An independent adjustable axle suspension system for mounting a wheel to a frame of a trailer for transport of the trailer over a support surface. The axle suspension system includes a tower adapted to be attached to the frame and an axle unit adapted to receive the wheel. The tower is selectively moveable with respect to the axle unit along guide assemblies between extended and retracted positions to thereby selectively position the height of the frame with respect to the support surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Wells Cargo, Inc.
    Inventor: James R. Kinkaide
  • Patent number: 7753382
    Abstract: A hydraulic system for a leveling apparatus in excavator and forestry equipment is provided, whereby an upper frame of the equipment is kept in a horizontal state even if a lower frame of the equipment is on an inclined ground against a horizontal surface H. The hydraulic system a pair of first and second actuators and a pair of third and fourth actuators for rocking the lower part of the upper frame, first leveling control valves for simultaneously controlling extension and contraction of the first and second actuators, second leveling control valves for simultaneously controlling extension and contraction of the third and fourth actuators a reducing valve for discharging a reducing pilot signal pressure, and flow control valves for discharging the pilot signal pressure for the spool shifting of the first and second leveling control valves when a control signal is applied from a preset leveling controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Assignee: Volvo Construction Equipment Holding Sweden AB
    Inventor: Han Ok Choi
  • Patent number: 7744099
    Abstract: A method of adjusting a leveled height of the sprung mass of a vehicle that is in approximate alignment with a predetermined datum is disclosed. The method includes approximately aligning the sprung mass with the predetermined datum, receiving an input from an operator for changing the height of the sprung mass and adjusting the height of the sprung mass while maintaining approximate alignment with the predetermined datum. A system for performing the method is also discussed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: Driveright Holdings, Ltd.
    Inventor: Gregory A. Holbrook
  • Patent number: 7735839
    Abstract: A motor vehicle has a frame assembly with a generally flat platform for supporting a wheelchair within the interior compartment of the vehicle. Air cylinders couple the frame assembly to wheel assemblies operate to move the frame assembly to an up vehicle driving position and to a down position wherein the platform engages the vehicle support surface or ground whereby the wheelchair can be moved directly onto the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Inventor: Phillip E. Schlangen
  • Publication number: 20100096819
    Abstract: A vehicle leveling assembly includes a plurality of jack assemblies corresponding to four quadrants of a vehicle, and a plurality of sensors for determining jack position and rate of movement. A method of detecting contacting between the shafts of the Jack assemblies and the ground includes measuring pulse width of current emitted by the hall effect sensor to monitor the speed of the shafts and recognizing contact with the ground when the shaft slows down. A method of detecting contacting between the shafts of the jack assemblies and the ground includes measuring the electric motor current signal and correlating a pulse from the current signal to the electric motor revolutions per minute and travel of the shafts. A method of calibrating the leveling assembly includes measuring a change in inclination as the jack assemblies are extended a known distance to determine the distance between the jack assemblies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2008
    Publication date: April 22, 2010
    Applicant: DURA GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Charles Lee Flynn, Christopher E. Curtis
  • Publication number: 20100066041
    Abstract: The adjustable height trailer is a fifth wheel-type trailer with a single rear axle supporting the rear of the trailer and a fifth wheel hitch supporting the front. The rear axle and hitch have adjustable height suspensions, allowing the trailer to be lowered or raised uniformly while remaining hitched to the towing vehicle. One embodiment is configured as a livestock trailer with a series of stall positions therein. The loading and exit doors are generally diagonally opposite one another. A series of adjustably positionable partitions is installed on overhead tracks, with a partition placed between each animal as they are boarded and positioned in the trailer. Animals depart the trailer through the opposite door, with the partitions being repositioned correspondingly. The trailer suspension allows the trailer to be lowered to the underlying surface to facilitate loading and unloading animals therefrom, or other commodities, depending upon the trailer configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2008
    Publication date: March 18, 2010
    Inventor: Donald C. Metzger
  • Publication number: 20100030425
    Abstract: A method and system for positioning a vehicle chassis in approximate alignment with a predetermined datum are provided. The vehicle includes a first longitudinal end adapted to be pivotally connected to a substantially fixed point and a second longitudinal end including at least one axle and an operatively associated two-corner fluid suspension system. According to the method, the fluid suspension system controls the alignment of the vehicle chassis to be aligned with an artificial horizon represented as the predetermined datum.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2009
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Applicant: FIRESTONE INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS COMPANY, LLC
    Inventors: Gregory A. Holbrook, Joseph A. Bounds
  • Patent number: 7624995
    Abstract: A stabilization system for a motor vehicle includes an independently actuatable airbag assembly disposed at each wheel. A damper assembly disposed at each wheel is lockable to maintain the motor vehicle in the desired level position. The system includes a controller in communication with the airbag and damper assembly and a sensor assembly that senses a relative position of the body of the motor vehicle relative to a level plane and adjusts the airbag assembly in order to attain a level position of the motor vehicle and once that level position is attained, lock the damper assembly in order to provide a foundation-like feel to the motor home in a parked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: Ride Control, LLC
    Inventor: James M. Barbison
  • Patent number: 7617018
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for increasing platform attitude adjustment range for platforms supported by jacks in which the apparatus includes jacks for supporting a platform at spaced-apart locations, jack drive mechanisms, and a controller connected to each of the jacks through their respective jack drive mechanisms and programmed to adjust platform attitude by coordinating jack movement. The controller coordinates jack movement by selecting and commanding at least one of the jacks to retract and selecting and commanding at least one other of the jacks to extend.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2009
    Assignee: Innovative Design Solutions
    Inventors: Robert M. Ford, John P. Manfreda, Mark J. Woloszyk, Shawn P. Haley
  • Patent number: 7611154
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: International Truck Intellectual Property Company, LLC
    Inventor: Patrick M. Delaney
  • Patent number: 7607667
    Abstract: A method of positioning a vehicle chassis of a stationary vehicle in approximate alignment with a predetermined datum is provided. The vehicle has an axle and a fluid suspension system. The fluid suspension system include a control device, a pressurized fluid source and an exhaust passage. The pressurized fluid source and the exhaust passage are in fluid communication with the plurality of fluid suspension members through the control device. The vehicle also includes an electronic control unit operatively associated with the control device. The method including step of providing alignment sensor supported on the chassis for outputting a signal indicative of the orientation of the chassis to the electronic control unit and acquiring a signal output by the alignment sensor. Another step includes comparing the signal from the alignment sensor to alignment data stored in the electronic control unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Inventors: Graham R Brookes, Daniel L Nordmeyer, Brian S Hoaglan, Greg A Holbrook
  • Publication number: 20090091096
    Abstract: A vehicle body and vehicle frame assembly is disclosed that includes a complete rolling chassis with wheels, motor, drive train, transmission and all other components found in contemporary automotive vehicles with the addition of a scissor lift situated in the center of the vehicle frame that is connected to the chassis frame at the lower end and to the body of the vehicle at the upper end through a frame and turntable device. Controls are used to lower, elevate and rotate the body of the vehicle relative to the chassis, so that observers may readily view the chassis components.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2008
    Publication date: April 9, 2009
    Inventor: Victor Samaniego
  • Publication number: 20090091095
    Abstract: A pneumatic cylinder assembly and a method for lifting a hand truck frame generally vertically away from a ground surface exploits a cylinder housing including a longitudinal axis and first and second ends. The cylinder housing defines a cylinder cavity at the first end and a port generally at the second end in operative communication with the cylinder cavity and has at least one frame attachment point for attachment of the housing to the hand truck frame. A piston in the cylinder cavity is moveable in a first direction. A fluid space is defined between the actuation surface within the cylinder housing. An inlet valve is configured to admit a working fluid into the fluid space through the port at a pressure greater than an ambient pressure, thereby urging the piston in the first direction thereby to cause the movement of the piston in the first direction lifting the truck.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2007
    Publication date: April 9, 2009
    Applicant: SHAMROCK LIFTS, INC.
    Inventor: John Donlin
  • Patent number: 7494133
    Abstract: A four wheel chassis for a floor conveyor, a counterweight stacker in particular, in which the ends of the front and rear axle or the wheels, respectively, are supported with respect to the vehicle frame via double-acting hydraulic cylinders, which on their turn co-operate with hydraulic accumulators and constitute a hydraulic chassis system, wherein first controllable on-off valves separate the hydraulic accumulators from the hydraulic cylinders at option, and wherein a hydraulic lifting equipment for a load supporting means is provided, wherein a hydraulic system for the lifting equipment co-operates with the hydraulic chassis system via a pressure intensifier, and the pressure in the chassis system and with this a compression movement is changed as a function of the taken-up load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2009
    Assignee: Jungheinrich Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Henrik Schroder
  • Patent number: 7490836
    Abstract: The control includes a fluid system having a fluid passage in connection with a rod end chamber and a piston end chamber of a fluid cylinder connected to the front axle and a front end of a vehicle and extendible in length for increasing a distance between the front axle and the front end, a progressive control valve is disposed in the passage and is controllably movable through a range of progressively more restrictive partially open positions. The valve can also have a one-way flow position to allow fluid flow only from the piston end chamber to the rod end chamber, to allow only retraction of the cylinder. A controller is automatically operable for causing the valve to move through the range of progressively more restrictive partially open positions as the fluid cylinder is increasingly extended, and for moving the valve to the one-way flow position when the cylinder reaches a predetermined length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: CNH America LLC
    Inventors: Yanming Hou, Haibo Guo, James Thannikary
  • Publication number: 20080315538
    Abstract: A system for leveling recreational vehicles and the like consists of two motors operating simultaneously but independently to lift a trailer or other vehicle having vehicle-axles. The system comprises one portable and motorized lifting unit that can be deployed selectively on either side of the vehicle, or both, as required. The motorized lifting unit comprises a pair of motorized jacking units connected by a common and centrally positioned tube-type rail member. A pair of motorized jacking units electrically couple to a controller. The vehicle battery or another external power supply powers both electric motors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2008
    Publication date: December 25, 2008
    Inventor: Michael Ogle
  • Patent number: 7469175
    Abstract: Method and device for calculating chassis height of a vehicle that has at least three air-suspended wheel axles (2, 3, 4). The device includes a control unit and two level sensors (9, 10). The control unit detects the chassis height at the front axle (2) via a first level sensor (9) and at the forward rear axle (3) via a second level sensor (10), and the control unit calculates the chassis height at the rearmost wheel axle (4). An object of the disclosure is to protect the rear axle installation with as few level sensors as possible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2008
    Assignee: Volvo Lastvagnar AB
    Inventors: Per-Olov Brandt, Bengt Terborn
  • Publication number: 20080272562
    Abstract: A system for adjusting the chassis height and/or tilt of a motor vehicle including a plurality of chassis height adjusting devices includes a combination instrument comprising a display and a menu system defining an interface between an operator and the height adjusting devices. The chassis height and/or tilt is adjusted in response to an input provided by the operator. A motor vehicle including such a system is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2006
    Publication date: November 6, 2008
    Applicant: VOLVO LASTVAGNAR AB
    Inventors: Mats Sabelstrom, Christian Oscarsson, Yngve Hagberg