Abstract: A method controls the level of a pneumatic level-control system of a motor vehicle including at least two axles, at least one pneumatic spring (2a, 2b) per axle, optionally one or more pressure accumulators (3), at least one pressure sensor (24), elements (16, 18, 20, 22) for determining the distance between at least one wheel and/or an axle and the vehicle body, a control unit (10) and a compressor (12). The axle levels are controlled in sequence and adjusted from a starting level to a target level. During a positive adjustment operation the compressor (12) is at least operated temporarily and/or a connection of at least one pneumatic spring (2a, 2b) to the pressure accumulator (3) is established.

Abstract: Microprocessors read the tilt of a vehicle as indicated by lateral and longitudinal tilt sensors, and predict the amount of jack actuation needed to level the vehicle. Once an attempt is made to level the vehicle, the system may pause for a configurable amount of time to allow the oscillations of the vehicle to subside. Once the vehicle motion, if any, has stopped, the tilt angles of the vehicle are once again checked and any further actuation of the jacks is taken to fine tune the attitude of the vehicle.

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.

Abstract: A vehicle leveling system including at least one level sensor, a controller and an output. The sensor measures how level the vehicle is relative to horizontal. Optionally, it does so dynamically, as the vehicle moves across a potential parking area. The controller analyzes the sensor measurements, and informs the operator via the output whether the vehicle is level in a given direction, whether the vehicle is leveling, whether the vehicle can be leveled at a given location, and/or the “best” leveling that the system is capable of at a location. The system also may automatically level the vehicle relative to the ground for the operator. In one embodiment, the leveling system communicates with an existing vehicle electronic height control system. The leveling system overrides or controls the normal operation of this system, and uses it to level the vehicle, for example, by adjusting the vehicle suspension.

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 includes 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 steps of providing an 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.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for stabilizing a stationary trailer. One embodiment of the device comprises a jack and a stabilizing member. The jack attaches to the bottom of the trailer, such that when the jack is extended, a base component of the jack engages the ground. A stabilizing member attaches at one end to the base of the jack and attaches at the other end to the bottom of the trailer. The length of the stabilizing member adjusts such that the stabilizing member has one length when the jack is in the raised position, and a second length when the jack is in the lowered position. The length of the stabilizing member may be locked such that the stabilizing member retains a particular length.

Abstract: This self-leveling device is employed in the field of lifting of aircraft, helicopters, civil and military flying vehicles, watercraft, camping vehicles, trains, bridges, radar, etc., and for all those activities that require self-leveling and centring during lifting and lowering operations with fast results, without damages to the structure and in perfect safety (eg.: for helicopter lifting, for internal load balance, for safety during take-off and landing). The device is composed of a number of electromechanical lifting groups that operate synchronistically and autonomously from one another, linked with an electronic central general control for operation and a leveling cell. The whole system provides perfect self-leveling in case of unstable ground, for weighing and leveling purposes, targeting, weight balance, maintenance, etc.

Abstract: A vehicle leveling system including at least one level sensor, a controller and an output. The sensor measures how level the vehicle is relative to horizontal. Optionally, it does so dynamically, as the vehicle moves across a potential parking area. The controller analyzes the sensor measurements, and informs the operator via the output whether the vehicle is level in a given direction, whether the vehicle is leveling, whether the vehicle can be leveled at a given location, and/or the “best” leveling that the system is capable of at a location. The system also may automatically level the vehicle relative to the ground for the operator. In one embodiment, the leveling system communicates with an existing vehicle electronic height control system. The leveling system overrides or controls the normal operation of this system, and uses it to level the vehicle, for example, by adjusting the vehicle suspension.

Abstract: A landing gear assembly for supporting a trailer. The landing gear assembly having first and second legs and a connecting member. Each leg is configured to selectively extend and retract in length. The connecting member operatively connects the first and second legs and is rotatable about an axis relative to the trailer and is axially movable between a first position and a second position. The first and second legs are each configured to extend in length a first amount per revolution of the connecting member about the axis of the connecting member when the connecting member is in the first position. The first and second legs are each configured to extend in length a second amount per revolution of the connecting member about the axis of the connecting member when the connecting member is in the second position. The first amount is greater than the second amount.

Abstract: The invention relates to drilling or rockbolting machines, for the execution of underground works, in particular in mining operations. The carrier vehicle comprises a chassis and four wheels, all driving wheels, with two wheels situated on the right-hand side of the chassis of the vehicle and two other wheels situated on the left-hand side of the chassis. The four wheels are of the independent suspension type, having a jack-controlled height, and each comprise rotation-drive means, especially hydraulic motors. The chassis receives, at the front and at the rear, working equipment, such as drilling arms with respective guides, the basic position of which is horizontal and transverse to the direction of displacement of the vehicle. This carrier vehicle is applicable to the realization of a machine, which can be used in mine galleries of low height.

Abstract: A landing gear assembly for supporting a trailer. The landing gear assembly having first and second legs and a connecting member. Each leg is configured to selectively extend and retract in length. The connecting member operatively connects the first and second legs and is rotatable about an axis relative to the trailer and is axially movable between a first position and a second position. The first and second legs are each configured to extend in length a first amount per revolution of the connecting member about the axis of the connecting member when the connecting member is in the first position. The first and second legs are each configured to extend in length a second amount per revolution of the connecting member about the axis of the connecting member when the connecting member is in the second position. The first amount is greater than the second amount.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for automatically leveling a vehicle is provided, employing air springs, a sensor and a controller. The air springs are each mounted to the vehicle, and each can be at least partially inflated to provide suspension for the vehicle. Each of the air springs can also level the vehicle when the vehicle is parked. The sensor is mounted to the vehicle to sense pitch and roll of the vehicle relative to a reference level plane. The sensor also produces an orientation signal representing the vehicle pitch and roll. In response to the signal, the controller may cause at least one of the air springs to either inflate to move the vehicle upwardly, or deflate to move the vehicle downwardly relative to a ground surface, until the orientation of the vehicle reaches the reference level plane within a tolerance.

Abstract: A telescopic stabilizer for travel trailer, fifth wheel, or motorhome which can extend to the required length no matter the distance between each jacks and is set up diagonally so that it creates a cross beam of sort which reinforces and stabilizes two otherwise separate jacks. Moreover, when a second telescopic stabilizer is added to a third jack or riser and set perpendicular to the first two, this creates a second axis to provide ultimate stability across the width and the length of the travel trailer, fifth wheel, or motorhome. More stabilizers can be added to cover all corners of the travel trailer, fifth wheel, or motorhome if required.

Abstract: The invention relates to a moveable working device, particularly an auto concrete pump, comprising an undercarriage (10) provided with two front and two rear supporting extension arms (22,24) which can be extended from a travel position into at least one support position, which can be supported on a foundation (36) and which are respectively provided with a supporting leg (28), also provided with a respective measuring member (38) for determining the support load acting upon the supporting legs (28). If the telescopic supporting legs (28) with the telescopic member (30) fixed to the extension arm are coupled to a support leg casing by means of a coupling bolt (32), it is possible to configure the coupling bolt as a measuring member (38) in order to determine the support load, using particularly simple means. The measuring members can be incorporated into a stability monitoring device comprising a computer-assisted evaluation electronics system (68,74).

Abstract: A goods transshipment apparatus having a mobile substructure with a superstructure mounted so as to be rotatable relative to said substructure and having a driver's cab and engine compartment and a jib or jib system jointed to the superstructure wherein the superstructure is adjustable between a lower position (resting position I) on the substructure and an upper position (operating position II) at a spacing from the substructure.

Abstract: A method and device for detecting the stroke limit of an electric motor-driven jack while the jack is being used to adjust the attitude of a mobile platform. A controller is programmed to detect when an electric jack motor has driven a jack to a jack stroke limit by monitoring one or more jack motor power draw characteristics and comparing those values to known values associated with the driving of a jack at or near the end of a jack stroke.

Abstract: A stabilizer apparatus and system for use with recreational vehicles to reduce or eliminate side-to-side swaying and front-to-back shifting. The invention comprises one or more stabilizer components having a frame connector attached to the vehicle's frame, a jack connector attached to the leveling jack and a telescoping stabilizer bar interconnecting the frame and jack connectors. An engaging element, such as a T-bolt, locks the stabilizer bar. The frame and jack connectors utilize a universally configured connector having a base portion, a support bar mount to connect to a clevis on the stabilizer bar and a threaded end to connect to the frame or jack. The invention is configured to automatically raise and lower with the raising and lowering of the vehicle's jack system. The invention can be provided as an easily installed bolt-on kit that is adaptable to a variety of different recreational vehicles and jack systems.

Abstract: A method controls the level of a pneumatic level-control system of a motor vehicle including at least two axles, at least one pneumatic spring (2a, 2b) per axle, optionally one or more pressure accumulators (3), at least one pressure sensor (24), elements (16, 18, 20, 22) for determining the distance between at least one wheel and/or an axle and the vehicle body, a control unit (10) and a compressor (12). The axle levels are controlled in sequence and adjusted from a starting level to a target level. During a positive adjustment operation the compressor (12) is at least operated temporarily and/or a connection of at least one pneumatic spring (2a, 2b) to the pressure accumulator (3) is established.

Abstract: A demountable drive mechanism for coupling to a drive shaft of an operating device, the drive mechanism being directly secured to the drive shaft to cause the drive shaft to rotate, the drive mechanism comprising a geared electric motor having an output for coupling to the drive shaft, the drive mechanism having a torque arm adapted to engage a reaction surface so that the electric motor can impart torque to the drive shaft, and a controller to control operation of the electric motor.

Abstract: A power trailer support structure and leveling system continuously monitors the levelness a trailer containing the machinery train of a mobile power system. The invention can level the power trailer automatically while the gas turbine and electrical generator in the trailer are shut down, and can monitor and provide alarm and shut down protection when the gas turbine and electrical generator are operating. The invention includes a plurality of jacks and level sensors mounted to a power trailer, a programmable logic controller interconnected with the jacks and level sensors, and an interface for displaying jack positions and the output of the level sensors. A plurality of actuator mechanisms provide for automatic and manual control and a plurality of power systems between the actuator mechanisms and the jacks extend and retract the jacks in response to operation of the actuator mechanisms.

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 includes 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 steps of providing an 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.

Abstract: The suspension and level control system for vehicles includes, so as to independently control inflation and deflation of left and right front and rear air-springs, corresponding left and right front and rear pneumatic circuits in fluid communication with a pressurized air source. Each air-spring may have at least one air ride cushion reservoir mounted in a parallel pneumatic circuit in parallel fluid communication with the air-spring. Each pneumatic circuit includes a selectively actuable valve for selectively passing pressurized air from the air source into the corresponding parallel pneumatic circuit to selectively inflate the corresponding air-spring thereby raising a corresponding corner of the vehicle; and for selectively venting pressurized air from the corresponding parallel pneumatic circuit to selectively deflate the corresponding air-spring, thereby lowering a corresponding corner of the vehicle.

Abstract: A stabilizer apparatus and system for use with recreational vehicles to reduce or eliminate side-to-side swaying and front-to-back shifting. The invention comprises one or more stabilizer components having a frame connector attached to the vehicle's frame, a jack connector attached to the leveling jack and a telescoping stabilizer bar interconnecting the frame and jack connectors. An engaging element, such as a T-bolt, locks the stabilizer bar. The frame and jack connectors utilize a universally configured connector having a base portion, a support bar mount to connect to a clevis on the stabilizer bar and a threaded end to connect to the frame or jack. The invention is configured to automatically raise and lower with the raising and lowering of the vehicle's jack system. The invention can be provided as an easily installed bolt-on kit that is adaptable to a variety of different recreational vehicles and jack systems.

Abstract: An electronic controller for a vehicle leveling system comprises an extend-enable switch, a retract-enable switch, an all-activate switch, and at least one group-activate switch. It is configured to generate an all-extend electronic signal upon coordinated actuation of the extend-enable switch and the all-activate switch, an all-retract electronic signal upon coordinated actuation of the retract-enable switch and the all-activate switch, a group-extend electronic signal upon coordinated actuation of the extend-enable switch and the group-activate switch, and a group-retract electronic signal upon coordinated actuation of the retract-enable switch and the group-activate switch. Vehicle leveling systems having the electronic controller further include a plurality of jacks operably controlled by the electronic controller and a power system.

Abstract: An inclination-measuring apparatus for use with a motor vehicle includes a rotary sensor connected to the motor vehicle, the rotary sensor selected from one of a rotary position sensor and a rotary angle sensor, a pendulum and a controller. The pendulum has a pendulous mass being oriented to hang substantially aligned with the earth's gravitational forces. The movement of the pendulum providing an input to the rotary sensor to generate a signal to ascertain the inclination of the vehicle relative to the earth's gravitational forces. The signal is processed by the controller that is operatively connected to control one of an electric park brake, a chassis leveling device while parked, a lateral inclination device while the vehicle is operational and a longitudinal inclination device while the vehicle is operational.

Abstract: This invention consists of a Level Sensing Device and Hydraulic Control Valve, which, when, as a team, is applied to a system with a Hydraulic Pump W/Oil Reservoir, three or four Hydraulic Jacks, three or four Normally-Open Solenoid-Operated In-Line Hydraulic Valves, and piped and wired as described in this document, will provide a completely automatic leveling system for Recreational Vehicles, such as, Motorhomes, Pick-up Campers, and Camping Trailers. This Leveling Sensor/Switch and Hydraulic Control Valve can also be retro-fit into any exsisting manually-operated or semi-automatic hydraulic leveling system and, as a team, make it a completely automatic leveling system.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for stabilizing a stationary trailer. One embodiment of the device comprises a first jack and a stabilizing member, where the first jack comprises a first trailer engagement means, a first base, and a first extension means disposed between the first trailer engagement means and the first base. The first trailer engagement means is attached to the bottom of the trailer, such that the first extension means causes the first base to extend from a raised position generally adjacent to the bottom of the trailer to a first extended position, where the first base either engages the ground, or engages some other intermediate structure which, in turn, engages the ground. The stabilizing member comprises a first end and a second end. The first end comprises means for attachment to the first base and the second end comprises means for attachment to the bottom of the trailer.

Abstract: A height-adjustable support 10 for semitrailers 11 having a stationary outer support tube body 12 and an inner support tube 13, which is arranged in a longitudinally displaceable manner therein. The outer support tube body 12 is of trough-shaped design, the outer support tube body 12 having a U-shaped region 25 and the open region of the U-shaped region 25 being closed with a rear wall 15 and therefore forming a guide channel for the inner support tube 13 guided therein.

Abstract: An apparatus for automatically leveling a vehicle is provided. Having a plurality of legs, a sensor and a controller. The sensor is mounted to the vehicle to sense pitch and roll of the vehicle relative to a reference level plane. The sensor produces an orientation signal representing the vehicle pitch and roll. The controller is coupled to each of the legs and to the sensor, and monitors the orientation signal received from the sensor and in response to that signal the controller causes at least one of the legs to retract to move the vehicle downwardly relative to the ground surface, for orienting the vehicle with the reference level plane within a tolerance.

Abstract: A leveling leg assembly adapted for mounting to a vehicle includes an outer member and an inner member telescoped slidably into the outer member. The inner member has a first end extending beyond the outer member. Means for driving the inner member telescopically drives the inner member out of the outer member from a retracted position toward an extended position. A first bracket is fixed to the outer member, and a second bracket is fixable to the vehicle, wherein one of the first and second brackets has a plurality of holes formed therethrough, and the other of the first and second brackets has at least one hole formed therethrough that is aligned with at least one of the plurality of holes to fix the first bracket relative to the second bracket at a desired height relative to the vehicle.

Abstract: A trailer with mechanically activated dolly legs includes a trailer body having a front towing end and a rear end. Ground engaging support wheels are positioned at the rear end. Means are provided for attachment to a tow vehicle at the front towing end. Dolly legs are positioned spaced from and underlying the front towing end. The dolly legs are housed in a housing and are movable relative to the housing between an extended position and a retracted position. At least one air bag is positioned between the dolly legs and the housing. The air bag is adapted to move the dolly legs from the retracted position to the extended position.

Abstract: A pseudo four-leg leveling system for a vehicle, such as a recreational vehicle or the like, includes four jacks in the form of hydraulic cylinders mounted in pairs at the front and rear of the vehicle. A power system supplies hydraulic fluid to extend and retract the jacks thereby adjusting the attitude of the vehicle relative to level. The front two jacks are driven in parallel and the rear jacks are driven separately and independent of the front jacks. When the power system is de-energized the front jacks are hydraulically isolated to improve the stability of the system when static. Pressure operated valves automatically control the isolation of the jacks driven in parallel, as well as return passage to the tank, without the need for additional electronically controlled valves.

Abstract: An inclination-measuring apparatus for use with a motor vehicle includes a rotary sensor connected to the motor vehicle, the rotary sensor selected from one of a rotary position sensor and a rotary angle sensor, a pendulum and a controller. The pendulum has a pendulous mass being oriented to hang substantially aligned with the earth's gravitational forces. The movement of the pendulum providing an input to the rotary sensor to generate a signal to ascertain the inclination of the vehicle relative to the earth's gravitational forces. The signal is processed by the controller that is operatively connected to control one of an electric park brake, a chassis leveling device while parked, a lateral inclination device while the vehicle is operational and a longitudinal inclination device while the vehicle is operational.

Abstract: This invention consists of a Level Sensing Device and Hydraulic Control Valve, which, when, as a team, is applied to a system with a Hydraulic Pump W/Oil Reservoir, three or four Hydraulic Jacks, three or four Normally-Open Solenoid-Operated In-Line Hydraulic Valves, and piped and wired as described in this document, will provide a completely automatic leveling system for Recreational Vehicles, such as, Motorhomes, Pick-up Campers, and Camping Trailers. This Leveling Sensor/Switch and Hydraulic Control Valve can also be retro-fit into any exsisting manually-operated or semi-automatic hydraulic leveling system and, as a team, make it a completely automatic leveling system.

Abstract: The invention relates to a mobile viscous matter pump comprising a hydraulically operated support construction, a distribution boom (16) and a pneumatic cushioned trailing axle (42). To ensure stability during the pump operation, the trailing axle (42) can be lifted by means of a lifting element (58) by bleeding the pneumatic suspension, whereby the bleeding of the pneumatic suspension (44) and the operation of the lifting element (58) and a locking element (64) can be controlled according to the on-condition of the auxiliary drive (NA) of the vehicle motor, used to supply the compressed oil of the drive hydraulics.

Abstract: A motorized lift for a trailer dolly that can be retrofitted onto an existing manual trailer dolly lift mechanism without disabling or impairing the manual lift capabilities of the lift mechanism comprises an electrical motor and an integral reduction gear assembly mounted on the leg of a trailer dolly and drivingly connected to an input shaft of the manual gearbox of the manual lift mechanism. An extension shaft on the input shaft makes the input shaft longer so that the manual crank can still be attached to the input shaft for manual operation of the lift. The motor drive assembly includes a manual disengagement button that permits the output shaft of the motor and reduction gear assembly to be disengaged and rendered free wheeling, so the motor drive does not impair manual crank operation.

Abstract: A control system for a heavy-duty vehicle such as a dump-type straight truck includes a portable radio frequency transmitter and a radio frequency receiver. The radio frequency receiver is operatively connected to a vehicle device or assembly which performs a function such as operation of the vehicle dump bed or raising and lowering of the vehicle axle/suspension system, so that the function can be controlled from the cab of the vehicle by the radio frequency transmitter, and whereby the function occurs substantially instantaneously due to the use of radio frequency and eliminates the need for a custom hard-wired control system.

Abstract: A leveling assembly for analyzing the attitude of a structure such as a motor vehicle in two axes. The assembly drives leveling devices on the structure to correct the attitude of the structure relative to a calibrated reference point or attitude. The assembly includes a controller connected to the leveling devices and a proportional two-axis tilt sensor that is connected to the controller and supported on the structure. The tilt sensor provides analog signals to the controller that represent the attitude of the structure about longitudinal pitch and lateral roll axes. The controller also uses those signals to determine the attitude of the structure relative to a calibrated sensitivity factor and a user-defined zero point. This allows an operator or installer to determine which portion of the structure will be leveled without regard to the location of the tilt sensor and allows an installer to mount the tilt sensor at any point on the structure.

Abstract: A superelevation correction device for a platform with two axles. The platform, comprising a chassis (1) on which the axles (2, 3) are articulated, the device comprising at least one first one first jack (6) articulated between the front axles (2) and the chassis (1) and at least one second jack (7) articulated between the rear axles (3) and the chassis (1), the two jacks being connected in parallel to the same control circuit (12), the jacks being of the double-acting type.

Abstract: A stabilization and leveling system for an industrial vehicle of a type comprising a frame and at least one axle which is pivotally connected to the frame. The system comprises a linear actuator pivotally connected between the frame and the axle. The linear actuator includes a lock mechanism and a lock override system. The linear actuator is freely extendable and retractable when the lock mechanism is in a non-actuated condition, such that the axle is freely tiltable relative to the frame, and locked against free extension and retraction upon actuation of the lock mechanism, thereby preventing free movement of the linear actuator and resultant free tilting of the axle relative to the frame. The lock override system is actuable to override the lock mechanism to extend or retract the linear actuator to permit controlled tilt of the axle when it is locked.

Abstract: A hydraulic circuit controls a doubling acting cylinder of a vehicle suspension to provide load leveling and shock absorption functions. A set of solenoid valves control the application of pressurized hydraulic fluid from a supply line to the cylinder and from the cylinder to a tank return line to raise and lower the vehicle for load leveling. The chambers of the cylinder are interconnected by a parallel arrangement of a check valve, orifice and a relief valve. Another parallel arrangement of a check valve, orifice and a relief valve couples the cylinder to an accumulator. These parallel arranged components enable the doubling acting cylinder to function as a passive shock absorber. A lock-out valve is provided in the preferred embodiment a to defeat the shock absorber operation and provide a very stiff suspension.

Abstract: An automatic leveling system for a vehicle supporting an articulable boom system. The automatic leveling system uses a microprocessor to monitor various inputs indicative of the current position of the vehicle and generates electrical drive signals to control the amount of extension of various outriggers extending from the vehicle.

Abstract: A leveling system for use with a mobile stage vehicle, the mobile stage vehicle having a stage floor. The leveling system includes a hydraulic actuation system. A plurality of leveling devices are coupled to the mobile stage vehicle of the portable stage for the leveling thereof. A hydraulic control system is coupled to the hydraulic actuation system for the control of the hydraulic actuation system. The hydraulic control system has level sensor devices coupled to the mobile stage vehicle for detecting the inclination of the mobile stage vehicle and indicators means coupled to the level sensor devices for presenting a viewable indication of the level status of the mobile stage vehicle. A switch is coupled to the hydraulic actuation system for providing a command to the hydraulic actuation system whereby the leveling devices are actuated responsive to an out of level indication on the indicators to effect leveling of the stage floor of the mobile stage vehicle.