Abstract: Various electric balance vehicles are described. In some embodiments, the vehicle has first and second housings with platforms to support a user's feet. The first and second housings can be rotatable relative to each other. The vehicle can have first and second wheel assemblies. A support member can extend within tapered portions of the first and second housings. In some embodiments, one of the first and second housings can rotate relative to the support member and the other of the housings can be rotationally fixed relative to the support member. The vehicle can balance and provide locomotion to the user. The vehicle can be light, compact, and/or have a low center of gravity.

Abstract: A pivot bearing, especially for a double wishbone axle for steerable wheels, especially front wheels, of a motor vehicle, in one embodiment is made as a one-piece cast part with a seat or recess for accommodation of a wheel bearing and seats or recesses for fastening of the same on the pivot bearing, two seats or recesses for linking of a brake caliper which are disposed substantially vertically with distance from one another, a seat or recess for linking of a track rod, a seat or recess for linking of a lower wishbone, a seat or recess for linking of a connecting rod, which substantially absorbs the longitudinal forces of the wheel, and a seat or recess for linking of an upper wishbone which is connected with the seat or recess for accommodation of the wheel bearing via a neck-like portion starting from same.

Abstract: A tension rod mechanism includes an outer tube, an inner tube having an end received in the outer tube, and a fixing device. The fixing device includes an engaging member and an enveloping member. The engaging member includes an engaging portion and a rod connected to the engaging portion. The engaging portion is mounted to the end of the inner tube. The rod extends in the outer tube. The rod includes an outer threaded portion formed on an outer periphery thereof. The outer threaded portion is connected to an end face of the engaging portion. The outer threaded portion has a constant major diameter. The outer threaded portion includes increasing minor diameters from the engaging portion toward a free end of the rod. The enveloping member includes an inner periphery having an inner threaded portion engaged with the outer threaded portion.

Abstract: Provided is a ball joint capable of coupling a third mechanical element in a freely pivotable manner near a pivot center of a first mechanical element and a second mechanical element coupled to each other in a freely pivotable manner.

Abstract: An autoguidance interface for a hydraulic steering system for a differential steered self-propelled agricultural windrower, windrower speed and direction controlled by adjustment to a control input shaft to control the output of a pair of tandem-mounted hydraulic drive pumps and provide motive power for the windrower. The control input shaft is rotatable and axially moveable. A hydraulic steering motor is operably connected to the input shaft to effect control input shaft rotation. Rotation of the hydraulic steering motor is selectively managed by a steering control valve attached to a cab-mounted windrower steering wheel or a proportional steering valve managed by the autoguidance system. A selector valve controls the active steering input. An emergency disengagement positions the selector valve to restore manual control by the steering wheel.

Abstract: A land vehicle steering system capable of selectively moving the left and right steerable wheels inboard and outboard of the vehicle, and selectively adjusting the distance between the left and right steerable wheels. The steering system includes left and right steering assemblies. Each assembly includes: a pivot arm pivotally secured to the vehicle about a first pivot axis; a first hydraulic cylinder secured between the pivot arm and the vehicle; a wheel end pivotally secured to the pivot arm about a steering axis; and, a second hydraulic cylinder secured between the wheel end and the pivot arm. Actuation of the first hydraulic cylinders rotates the pivot arms about their first pivot axes and moves the wheel ends inboard and outboard of the vehicle. Actuation of the second hydraulic cylinders rotates the wheel ends and steerable wheels thereon relative to their pivot arm for steering the vehicle.

Abstract: A riding lawn care vehicle may include a frame and a steering assembly. Wheels of the riding lawn care vehicle may be attachable to the frame. The steering assembly may include a steering wheel operably coupled to rear wheels of the riding lawn care vehicle via a cable system. The cable system may include a first cable portion, a second cable portion and a pulley assembly. The first and second cable portions may each contact a steering column pulley at respective first ends of the first and second cable portions. The steering column pulley may be configured to pull a corresponding one of the first cable portion or the second cable portion based on a direction of rotation of the steering wheel. The first and second cable portions may each be in operable communication with a steering disc at respective second ends of the first and second cable portions. The steering disc may provide translation of movement of the first cable portion and the second cable portion into corresponding movement of the rear wheels.

Abstract: A riding yard maintenance vehicle may include a frame, a steering assembly, and a cable. Wheels of the riding yard maintenance vehicle may be attachable to the frame. The steering assembly may include a steering apparatus operably coupled to front wheels of the riding yard maintenance vehicle via a cable system. The cable system may include the cable, which may be wrapped around at least a portion of the steering shaft. The cable may terminate at respective ends thereof at corresponding portions of a turn magnification assembly that indirectly couples the cable to the front wheels. The turn magnification assembly may be configured to approximate Ackermann geometry steering of respective ones of the front wheels based on movement of the cable responsive to rotation of the steering shaft.

Abstract: A riding lawn care vehicle may include a frame and a steering assembly. Wheels of the riding lawn care vehicle may be attachable to the frame. The steering assembly may include a steering wheel operably coupled to rear wheels of the riding lawn care vehicle via a cable system. The cable system may include a first cable portion, a second cable portion and a pulley assembly. The first and second cable portions may each contact a steering column pulley at respective first ends of the first and second cable portions. The steering column pulley may be configured to pull a corresponding one of the first cable portion or the second cable portion based on a direction of rotation of the steering wheel. The first and second cable portions may each be in operable communication with a steering disc at respective second ends of the first and second cable portions. The steering disc may provide translation of movement of the first cable portion and the second cable portion into corresponding movement of the rear wheels.

Abstract: To reduce the complexity, maintenance, and cost, and to increase the reliability of a riding lawnmower employing a short turn radius steering system, the riding lawn mower may be configured with a linkage and steering assembly that eliminates or reduces complicated gearing. A riding lawn mower may comprise a link system, pivot brackets, and spindle assemblies. The geometry of the steering system may be configured to provide a turn radius of seven inches or less. Moreover, the geometry of the steering system may be configured to provide Ackerman steering, such that, the inside wheel turns sharper than the outside wheel in a turn.

Abstract: A riding yard maintenance vehicle may include a frame, a steering assembly, a cable and at least one set of guide pulleys. Wheels of the riding yard maintenance vehicle may be attachable to the frame. The steering assembly may include a steering apparatus operably coupled to front wheels of the riding yard maintenance vehicle via a cable system. The cable system may include the cable, which may be wrapped around at least a portion of the steering shaft. The cable may terminate at respective ends thereof at corresponding ones of a first shaped cam and a second shaped cam each of which is operably coupled to respective ones of a first axle rod and a second axle rod. The first and second axle rods may be rotatably connected to respective ones of the front wheels. The first and second shaped cams may cause movement of the front wheels based on movement of the cable responsive to rotation of the steering shaft.

Abstract: A working vehicle has a castor wheel assembly selectively providing steering assist. A pivoting caster spindle coupled with a caster wheel and an engagement plate connected to the caster spindle in a fixed manner such that the engagement plate pivots with the caster spindle. A pivoting steering arm is rotatably connected to the caster spindle and a steering cylinder is connected to an outward end of the steering arm with a tie rod configured to pivot the steering arm. A keyed connecting mechanism selectively couples the steering arm with the engagement plate. In an engaged position, the keyed connecting mechanism couples the steering arm with the engagement plate such that the steering cylinder pivots the caster spindle and caster wheel. In a disengaged position, the steering arm is uncoupled with the engagement plate such that the caster spindle and caster wheel are free to pivot independent of the steering cylinder.

Abstract: In a vehicle steering device, extendable portions whose elastic properties corresponding to a force acting in a compressing direction and whose elastic properties corresponding to a force acting in a stretching direction are asymmetrical are disposed in a symmetric fashion at intermediate sections of tie rods. Thus, an effective steering gear ratio with respect to leftward and rightward steering can be properly changed in accordance with a vehicle speed by using a simple configuration that does not use a complex mechanism having a motor. In this case, a steering gear ratio can be mainly changed for one of the wheels, while a linear lateral force corresponding to steering can be generated at the other wheel. Moreover, since the steering gear ratio can be changed mechanically without performing motor control, the occurrence of control delay can be prevented, thereby reliably preventing deterioration of the driver's operational feel.

Abstract: A steering device for a motor vehicle has a steering wheel which is connected in a rotationally fixed fashion to a steering shaft which is continuously hollow and through which at least an electrical conductor is led in order to make electrical connection with steering-wheel-side equipment. The conductor, in particular flexible conductor tracks, highly flexible cables, and/or flat conductor ribbons, is guided in an axial direction through the entire steering shaft, and emerges therefrom at the two ends of the steering shaft, and is surrounded essentially by a protective device. The protective device has two protective tubes which can be changed in length in the axial direction, in particular by moving them in and out in a telescopic fashion.

Abstract: A three-wheeled motor vehicle includes a main body, two shafts, two wheel bases, a blocking structure fixed to the main body and a linkage module. Each shaft has first, second and third pivot points. The third pivot point between the first and second pivot points is pivoted to the main body. One wheel base is pivoted to the first pivot points. The other wheel base is pivoted to the second pivot points. The wheel bases and the shafts form a parallelogram four bar mechanism. The linkage module is coupled between the main body and the parallelogram four bar mechanism. When the main body tilts as the three-wheeled motor vehicle turning, the linkage module changes from a first state to a second state to drive the wheel bases to tilt. The linkage module in the second state leans against the blocking structure to limit the tilt range of the wheel bases.

Abstract: Systems and methods for controlling the speed and direction of vehicles such as tractors.

Abstract: A working vehicle has a castor wheel assembly selectively providing steering assist. A pivoting caster spindle coupled with a caster wheel and an engagement plate connected to the caster spindle in a fixed manner such that the engagement plate pivots with the caster spindle. A pivoting steering arm is rotatably connected to the caster spindle and a steering cylinder is connected to an outward end of the steering arm with a tie rod configured to pivot the steering arm. A keyed connecting mechanism selectively couples the steering arm with the engagement plate. In an engaged position, the keyed connecting mechanism couples the steering arm with the engagement plate such that the steering cylinder pivots the caster spindle and caster wheel. In a disengaged position, the steering arm is uncoupled with the engagement plate such that the caster spindle and caster wheel are free to pivot independent of the steering cylinder.

Abstract: A new and novel suspension link for the suspension system of vehicles, which is easily removed and replaced in a repair mode. More specifically, there is an vehicle sway bar stabilizer link that has angle capability for replacing prior art suspension links having ball-type devices which comprise a polished steel ball surround by a steel liner, or a polished steel ball surrounded by a plastic liner. A method of manufacture is also disclosed.

Abstract: A suspension assembly includes at least one suspension arm having a suspension joint structured to vary the height of a vehicle dependent on the operative orientation of the suspension arm and suspension joint when connected to the vehicle. The suspension joint includes two bushing members each formed of a resilient material and two retaining assemblies, wherein each retaining assembly is disposed in a retaining relation to a different one of the two bushing members on opposite sides of one end of the suspension arm. Either each of the bushing members or each of the two retaining assemblies includes a first section and a second section being of different, predetermined thicknesses. While the suspension arm and suspension joint may be produced as equipment of original manufacture, a conventional suspension arm may be repaired or retrofitted by replacing its original suspension joint with a modified suspension joint.

Abstract: A small-size, highly-reliable left-right independent steering device is provided without having to make significant modifications to existing vehicles or to develop dedicated vehicles. The device includes tie rods linked to left and right front wheels and axially expandable and contractible by means of small-size telescopic mechanism portions defined by ball-screw-type linear actuators. Each telescopic mechanism portion mainly includes a main body to which a tie-rod end of the corresponding tie rod is fixed, and an electric motor serving as an actuator attached substantially perpendicularly to the main body. The other end of the tie rod is coupled to a steering rod and functions as a piston rod that can advance or recede in the axial direction by means of the telescopic mechanism portion. Thus, the telescopic mechanism portions are mountable within tire wheels at positions free of, for example, suspension arms and stabilizers located near the tie rods.

Abstract: A front axle system for a vehicle for receiving a total loading is provided. The front axle system includes a front axle frame element and a steering gear device connected to the front axle frame element. The front axle frame element is configured for receiving a first part of the total loading and the steering gear device is configured for receiving a second, remaining part of the total loading.

Abstract: A steering linkage for a vehicle, having a first draglink (32), an auxiliary steering cylinder (34) and a second draglink (38). The auxiliary steering cylinder (34) has a through piston rod (36). The first draglink (32) is arranged between a guide arm (12) of a steering gear (10) and a first end (35) of the through piston rod (36). The second draglink (38) is arranged between steerable vehicle wheels (48, 50) and the second end (37) of the through piston rod (36), thereby making it possible for the steerable vehicle wheels (48, 50) to be steered via the steering gear (10).

Abstract: A suspension assembly structured to facilitate a selective variance in a height of a vehicle including at least one suspension arm having a suspension joint structured to vary the height of the vehicle dependent on the operative orientation of the suspension arm and suspension joint when connected to the vehicle. The suspension joint includes two bushing members each formed of a resilient material and two retaining assemblies, wherein each retaining assembly is disposed in retaining relation to a different one of the two bushing members on opposite sides of one end of the suspension arm. Either each of the bushing members or each of the two retaining assemblies includes a first section and a second section being of different, predetermined thicknesses. While the suspension arm and suspension joint may be produced as equipment of original manufacture, a conventional suspension arm may be repaired or retrofit by replacing its original suspension joint with a modified suspension joint.

Abstract: A steering apparatus for a zero-turn radius vehicle using a steering mechanism coupled to a first set of wheel assemblies by a plurality of cables. User input to the steering mechanism causes the cables to turn the first set of wheel assemblies about a vertical axis. Specifically, the cables link the steering mechanism to cam mechanisms that are attached to each wheel assembly. The design of the cam mechanism, which preferably includes two cams of varying radii, enables the two wheel assemblies to rotate about their vertical axes at varied degrees of rotation and greater than ninety degrees from the forward facing position, thereby resulting in zero-turn radius capability.

Abstract: A tie rod for a vehicle axle assembly is constructed using substantially compliant, flexible, and/or resilient material. Such a resilient tie rod may be provided with a rectangular or otherwise non-circular cross-section. Such a resilient tie rod may be used in combination with an axle assembly of the type having an axle and a steering knuckle rotatably associated with each end of the axle. The tie rod may be rotatably or non-rotatably secured to the steering knuckles.

Abstract: An ATV is disclosed having a frame, a seat supported by the frame, front and rear wheels supporting the frame, a drivetrain supported by the frame, and an operator's compartment extending generally between the seat and a front enclosure. The front enclosure extends forwardly to a position proximate an axial centerline of the front wheels. Front lower alignment arms have an inner end and an outer end. Front struts have a shock absorber and a hub portion, where the front struts are coupled to the front lower alignment arms at a lower end of the front struts and the frame at an upper end. A steering mechanism is positioned forward of the axial centerline of the front wheels and is coupled to the front struts.

Abstract: A suspension arm may include a metal ball housing, a metal bushing housing, a metal connecting portion including a ball housing annulus at an end portion thereof, wherein the metal ball housing is inserted and mounted in the ball housing annulus, and wherein the other end portion of the metal connecting portion is connected to the metal bushing housing, and a reinforcement member wrapping the metal ball housing, the metal bushing housing and the metal connecting portion.

Abstract: A vehicle steering means with a first front ground-engaging steerable wheel located in the front center of the vehicle; second and third front ground-engaging wheels located either side of the first front ground-engaging wheel with means for adjusting the steer angle and the height depending on the steer angle of the first front ground-engaging wheel. When the first front ground-engaging wheel has a straight-ahead steer angle, the second and third wheels are also straight-ahead and all three front ground-engaging wheels are in contact with the ground; and when the steer angle of the first front ground-engaging wheel is turned, the steer angle of the front ground-engaging wheel on the outside of said curve is turned at least partly towards the steer angle of the first front ground-engaging wheel, the steer angle of the front ground-engaging wheel on the inside of said curve is not substantially turned towards the steer angle of the first front ground-engaging wheel.

Abstract: A spherical bearing including a ball having an external surface defined by an outside diameter of said ball and an outer race having an inside surface contoured to a shape defined by said external surface of the ball. The inside surface extends between a stud end and a cover end of the outer race. The ball is moveably positioned within the outer race such that the inside surface and the external surface slidably engage one another. The inside surface includes at least one lubrication groove formed therein. The lubrication groove initiates at a first position adjacent to the cover end and terminates at a second position adjacent to the cover end. Remaining portions of the lubrication groove are spaced apart from the stud end.

Abstract: In summary, there is provided a front axle mounting assembly (100) which is suitable for a tractor or a construction vehicle for example. The assembly comprises a steerable front axle (130), which is typically the front axle on a tractor, and a pair of support arms (120) which extend forwardly from the main body of the vehicle. The arms are pivotally mounted to the body of the vehicle, for example, at the front of the chassis, at transversely spaced mounting points (121). The other ends of the arms (120) are pivotally attached to, and maintained at a fixed spacing, by a crosslink member (124). The axle (130) is mounted to the crosslink member (124) so as to be parallel thereto when viewed from above. By mounting the axle (130) on two support arms (120) instead of one, the effective radius of pivot of the axle is significantly increased, thereby allowing the axle to move sideways to a greater extent for a given angular displacement.

Abstract: A knuckle includes a spindle to support a wheel and upper and lower bosses extending inwardly of the spindle. The lower boss includes a tie rod arm mount interface. A tie rod arm is received within the tie rod arm mount interface and a steer arm is positioned on an opposite side of the knuckle from the tie rod arm. The steer arm is fixed to the tie rod arm and includes an input mount interface to receive steering input to turn a wheel. The steer arm and tie rod arm are attached to each other with at least one fastener, or can be integrally formed together as a single-piece component.

Abstract: An implement includes a caster wheel pivotally attached to the implement to support the implement for movement. A steering link is engaged with the caster wheel, and an actuator is operative to move the steering link from a neutral position to a controlling position. When the steering link is in the neutral position, the caster wheel can pivot about the caster axis through a 360 degree pivot range. When the steering link is moved to the controlling position, the caster wheel is oriented to roll toward a first side of the implement.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for the optional guiding of at least one self-steering wheel of a trolley. According to the invention, the wheel is of the type that is mounted on a support that pivots around a vertical axis. The device comprises: a push bar which forms a dual-articulated steering member that can be accessed by the user; means for rotating a first clutch part about the vertical axis in response to steering member movements; and means which can be used at will to couple and uncouple the first clutch part in relation to a second clutch part which is solidly connected to the aforementioned support of the wheel, in response to other steering member movements. In addition, a coin-operated locking device for preventing the movement of the trolley is built into a casing which houses a transmission element of the guiding device and which is fixed to the push bar of the trolley.

Abstract: Systems and methods for controlling the speed and direction of vehicles such as tractors.

Abstract: The golf cart has a main frame supported by driven rear wheels. A front axle with steered front wheels is pivotally attached to the main frame. A rear seat is pivotally attached to the main frame. The rear seat is pivotable to positions in which a physically challenged golfer can swing a club while supported by the rear seat and hit a ball on the left side, the right side or to the rear of the cart. A front seat is on a front seat post clamped to the frame. A tiller is pivotally attached to the front post. A drive sprocket is fixed to the tiller. A driven sprocket is journaled on the post. A roller chain is trained around the drive sprocket and the driven sprocket. A tie rod control arm is fixed to the driven sprocket and connected to the steered front wheels by tie rods.

Abstract: The effective length of pump control linkage assembly of a pump-driven vehicle such as a zero-turn lawnmower can be adjusted without directly manipulating a rod or similar member forming the major length of the assembly. The length instead can be adjusted from above with a simple tool such as a screwdriver or wrench using a knob or similar device. In one embodiment, the linkage assembly includes a rod having a top end and a bottom end. The bottom end is attached to the pump. The top end of the rod is received by an internally threaded insert which is housed in a housing. The internally threaded insert includes an engagement structure such as a hex head for mating with the tool. Upon rotation of the insert using the tool, the insert rotates to drive the rod into or out of the insert and, thereby, vary the effective length of the linkage assembly.

Abstract: In summary, there is provided a front axle mounting assembly (100) which is suitable for a tractor or a construction vehicle for example. The assembly comprises a steerable front axle (130), which is typically the front axle on a tractor, and a pair of support arms (120) which extend forwardly from the main body of the vehicle. The arms are pivotally mounted to the body of the vehicle, for example, at the front of the chassis, at transversely spaced mounting points (121). The other ends of the arms (120) are pivotally attached to, and maintained at a fixed spacing, by a crosslink member (124). The axle (130) is mounted to the crosslink member (124) so as to be parallel thereto when viewed from above. By mounting the axle (130) on two support arms (120) instead of one, the effective radius of pivot of the axle is significantly increased, thereby allowing the axle to move sideways to a greater extent for a given angular displacement.

Abstract: A steering mechanism includes a relay rod and an idler arm operatively attached to a first end thereof. A pitman arm includes a stud and is operatively attached to a second end of the relay rod. A bushing is configured to allow displacement of the pitman arm relative to the relay rod. The bushing includes an outer can, an inner metal member, and a bushing disposed therebetween. The inner metal member has a tapered receptacle configured to mate with a tapered portion of the stud. The resilient member may include voids, which may be oriented generally perpendicular to a turning direction and may be tapered from the base to the opening. The inner metal member may have a generally-cylindrical portion and substantially-opposing outer flats interrupting the same. The outer flats are spaced by a distance smaller than the cylinder diameter and may be substantially parallel to the turning direction.

Abstract: A steering mechanism for a model vehicle is provided, having one or more steering actuators, a steering control arm pivotally mounted for rotation relative to a model vehicle chassis, the steering control arm being coupled directly to at least two tie rods, each tie rod controlling the steering of at least one wheel of a vehicle, and each of the one or more steering actuators coupled to the steering control arm to rotate the control arm relative to the vehicle chassis.

Abstract: A steering system disengages a wheel assembly of a vehicle in response to an event while driving. The steering system includes a suspension knuckle, a tie rod, and a puller. The puller includes a connector that removably engages the suspension knuckle and the tie rod to interconnect the suspension knuckle and the tie rod. The puller is operable to move the connector to disconnect the connector from at least one of the suspension knuckle and the tie rod in response to the event. The vehicle is operated along a longitudinal axis while driving and a moment of the vehicle about the longitudinal axis is sensed. If the moment exceeds the threshold, the puller is energized to disconnect the suspension knuckle from the tie rod.

Abstract: An all terrain vehicle with a tool less maintainable drive system, and having a seat designed to be straddled by the operator. The vehicle has a frame, a plurality of wheels attached to the frame, a steering mechanism attached at least one of the plurality of wheels, an engine mounted to the frame, and a clutch attached to the engine. The vehicle contains a system of features that can be removed without the use of tools. The system has a support attached to and extending outward from the frame, a removable footrest, a receiver attached to the removable footrest and configured to mate with the support, a locking mechanism attached to the receiver to secure the removable footrest with respect to the footrest support; and a removable clutch housing.

Abstract: The present invention realizes a common use of left and right gear casings aims thus reducing a manufacturing cost by an amount corresponding to the common use of the left and right gear casings. According to the present invention, in a tractor in which a front axle case which extends in the lateral direction is mounted on a body frame, and a pair of left and right front wheels are respectively mounted on left and right end portions of the front axle case by way of left and right gear casings, the front axle case is constituted of a center casing forming body and left and right casing forming bodies which have respective proximal end portions thereof connected to left and right end portions of the center casing forming body, and proximal end portions of the left and right casing forming bodies have mounting positions thereof arranged adjustable about axes with respect to the left and right end portions of the center casing forming body.

Abstract: Steering mechanism for orienting the steered wheels (1) of a short vehicle with respect to the chassis, comprising one first vertical axis (2) per steered wheel, allowing each steered wheel (1) to pivot with respect to said chassis and a link (5) allowing a torque to be applied to each steered wheel to make it pivot around said first vertical axis. The inner end of the link is able to slide along a straight rail (11) which in turn is rotatably mounted with respect to the chassis. A second link (6) not parallel to the wheels forces the first link (5) to slide in a defined manner along a rail (11). This makes possible the differentiated orientation of the left and right wheels. Advantage: very small turning radius. Particularly applicable to electric chairs for the disabled.

Abstract: The invention relates to a transmission mechanism (20) of a progressive gear (1), especially a steering gear for a vehicle, comprising a seating for each of an input shaft (10) and an output shaft (30). The transmission mechanism (20) according to the invention consists of a movable coupler (21) which is in articulated connection with the input shaft (10) and the output shaft (30) so that transmission from the input shaft (10) to the output shaft (30) with a progressive characteristic is achieved in the range ?180° to +180°. The advantage of such a gear (1) lies in the simple and therefore economical production of the apparatus and in its low space requirement. The absence of play in the mechanism and the direct transmission of forces by virtue of the individual components having suitable angles with respect to one another are further advantages.

Abstract: An axle pivot steering device (4) of a vehicle having first lever elements (8A—1, 8B—1), which are respectively operatively connected, via a second lever element (8A—2, 8B—2), with a wheel carrier (10A, 10B). The first lever elements (8A—1, 8B—1) and the second lever elements (8A—2, 8B—2) are connected with third lever elements (13A, 13B), in an articulated manner, at fixed rotational points (14A, 14B). At least two of the lever elements (8A—1, 8A—2, 13A) are designed to be fork-shaped and be inter-coupled, in an area of the rotational points (14A, 14B), by a bearing bolt (15) such that the bearing torques resulting from the bearing forces acting on the bearing bolt (15) are at least approximately zero.

Abstract: A steering apparatus for an automotive vehicle is provided with an electric drive unit that varies a steering ratio between a road wheel angle and a steering wheel angle of the vehicle, a temperature sensor that detects a temperature of the electric drive unit, and a control unit including a steering ratio characteristic setting block that sets a characteristic of the steering ratio including a steering gain and a steering response rate in accordance with an operating state of the vehicle and, when the temperature of the electric drive unit exceeds a first temperature threshold, adjusts the steering response rate in such a manner that the steering response rate comes closer to a base steering response rate level as the temperature of the electric drive unit becomes increased and a drive block that drives the electric drive unit to vary the steering ratio according to the steering ratio characteristic.

Abstract: A joint arrangement for a vehicle is provided including a joint (7), which has a joint housing (8) and a pivot pin (9) mounted movably in relation thereto. The joint arrangement has a rod (4), which has a cavity (6) and which is connected to the joint (7). A sealing bellows (10) defines an interior space (11) in which the joint (7) is arranged at least partially. A gas-permeable connection (13) connects the cavity (6) of the rod (4) to the interior space (11) of the sealing bellows (10). At least one part of the gas-permeable connection (13) is formed by at least one bore (14), which is formed in the joint (7) and which opens into the cavity (6) of the rod (4).

Abstract: A vehicle having at least one axle (1) steerable via a knuckle steering system (4) which is designed with one main steering cylinder device (6) flexibly connected with track rods (8A, 8B). The track rods are in operative connection with wheel carriers (10A, 10B). A steering kinematics of the knuckle steering system between the main steering cylinder device and one wheel carrier (10A, 10B), is in flexible operative connection with a lever element (13A, 13B) rotatable around a fixed pivot (14A, 14B) in a manner that a steering angle error corresponding to a demanded steering angle is substantially minimized by a reduction of the angle of lock of the wheel (2A or 2B) currently outside the curve in relation to an angle of lock of the wheel (2B or 2A) currently inside the curve.

Abstract: A steering assembly according to the present invention includes connection parts that are formed in a mounting plate body and fixed to a steering wheel module. Accordingly, when the mounting plate assembly is fixed to a steering wheel module, it is possible to attach or detach the mounting plate assembly to or from the steering wheel module. As a result, it is possible to quickly assemble the mounting plate assembly and the steering wheel module.

Abstract: Decoupler deflector devices and systems for automobile steering systems are provided. A decoupler deflector device in an automobile steering system can be connected to an upper intermediate shaft (“I-shaft”) portion or an I-shaft joint. The decoupler device can be adapted to contact a lower I-shaft portion and rotate the upper I-shaft portion downwardly such that the upper I-shaft portion does not interfere with a collapsing steering column when subjected to loading from an automobile driver during a front-end collision impact event. The decoupler device can comprise a first end portion coupled to an upper I-shaft portion and an I-shaft joint; and a second end portion spaced apart from the first end portion to contact a lower I-shaft portion and rotate the upper I-shaft portion. Other embodiments are also claimed and described.