Axle Patents (Class 301/124.1)
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Publication number: 20130241271Abstract: A bicycle axle assembly has a nut, a main body member and an adjustment structure. The nut includes a bore having an internal thread. The main body member includes a nut bore. The nut is disposed in the nut bore. The adjustment structure adjustably couples the nut to move axially with respect to the main body member.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 16, 2012Publication date: September 19, 2013Applicant: SHIMANO INC.Inventor: Puat Thiam LIM
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Publication number: 20130234499Abstract: The present invention relates to a torsion beam axle comprising a torsion beam whose both end parts have a circular cross section and a pair of trailing arms which are integrally coupled to the both end parts of the torsion beam, wherein the trailing arm is formed with a circular joining surface which has at least a predetermined width in a radial direction to correspond to the end part of the torsion beam, and the torsion beam axle further comprises a ring member having axially one end surface which is correspondingly contacted to the circular joining surface and coupled thereto by friction welding, and the other end surface which is correspondingly contacted to the end part of the torsion beam and welded thereto. Therefore, an enhanced coupling force between the trailing arm and the torsion beam which are of different materials therebetween can be maintained.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 14, 2012Publication date: September 12, 2013Applicant: AUSTEM CO., LTD.Inventors: Kyoung Taek LEE, Hyung Gyu KO, Myong Ho SHIN
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Patent number: 8490989Abstract: An axle-to-beam connection for axle/suspension systems includes a connector having a U-shaped cross section and includes two pairs of legs. Each of the legs is formed with an opening. The connector extends longitudinally along the axle and is also formed with a pair of window weld openings adjacent to the axle. The connector provides a conforming fit of the connector to the axle when the connector is pulled over the axle using the leg openings and is attached to the axle and beam of the axle/suspension system.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2010Date of Patent: July 23, 2013Assignee: Hendrickson USA, L.L.C.Inventors: Daniel J. Piehl, Kevin J. Erdmann
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Patent number: 8469460Abstract: A spindle nut assembly includes inner and outer nuts having corresponding beveled surfaces. The inner nut is tightly threaded onto an end of a spindle and is positioned to achieve a desired endplay setting. The outer nut contacts the inner nut at an oblique angle via the beveled surfaces, which squeezes the inner nut more tightly onto the spindle while still maintaining the desired endplay setting.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2010Date of Patent: June 25, 2013Assignee: Arvinmeritor Technology, LLCInventors: Robert J. Martin, III, Darren L. Booker, Brian D. Hayes
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Patent number: 8465035Abstract: An axle-and-hub assembly for a trailer which includes an axle with opposing ends, first and second connecting devices respectively positioned at the opposing ends of the axle, and first and second hub arrangements which are removably secured to the first and second connecting devices.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2011Date of Patent: June 18, 2013Inventor: Eric Gander
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Patent number: 8454040Abstract: An axle-to-beam connection for a vehicle axle/suspension system includes an axle having at least one depression formed therein. A sleeve is formed with at least one depression and disposed about the axle so that the axle depression and the sleeve depression matingly engage one another to form a mated pair of depressions. A method of forming the axle-to-beam connection includes providing an axle and disposing a sleeve about the axle. At least one mated pair of depressions is simultaneously formed in the axle and the sleeve. The sleeve is immovably mounted to a vehicle axle/suspension system.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2011Date of Patent: June 4, 2013Assignee: Hendrickson USA, L.L.C.Inventors: Andrew J. Westnedge, Dmitriy E. Rubalskiy, Michael J. Keeler, Phillippi R. Pierce
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Patent number: 8414087Abstract: The invention relates to a motor vehicle axle component and a method for producing a motor vehicle axle component. The axle component, for example a dead beam axle, includes a light metal body, such as aluminum or magnesium or corresponding alloys, and a tubular body in form of a steel tube, which are adhesively connected with each other. An adhesive pocket filled with an adhesive is formed between an end of the tubular body and a cylindrical receptacle of the light metal body. Respective bezels are arranged on a free end of the receptacle and on a free end of the tubular body. The spaces between the respective bezels and adjacent walls are filled with adhesive, which seals the interior and exterior transition regions of the joint zone, thus protecting the joint zone against corrosion, improving the load characteristic of the axle component and increasing its service life.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 2010Date of Patent: April 9, 2013Assignee: Benteler Automobiltechnik GmbHInventors: Michael Wibbeke, Jürgen Krogmeier
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Patent number: 8398179Abstract: An extendible axle member (146, 148) is provided for an agricultural harvester (100), the axle (142, 144) having an elongate telescopic portion (400) with bearing surfaces (254, 256, 334, 336) for being slidably received in an outer axle member (142, 144).Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2010Date of Patent: March 19, 2013Assignee: Deere & CompanyInventors: Ryan Patrick Mackin, Daniel James Burke, Bruce Alan Coers, Eric Allan Risius, Glenn E Pope, David Rix
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Patent number: 8353562Abstract: The invention relates to an axle body, particularly for a commercial vehicle, wherein the body is configured substantially as an axle pipe, which comprises a center section and at least one receiving section connected thereto for receiving an axle guide, wherein the axle body in the center section has a substantially constant wall thickness, and wherein the axle body in the receiving section, at least in some regions, has a wall thickness that is greater than the wall thickness of the center section.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2008Date of Patent: January 15, 2013Assignee: Saf-Holland GmbHInventors: Rolf Spielmann, Bjorn Meyer, Olaf Drewes
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Publication number: 20130009385Abstract: A low profile trailer and method of use with mountable equipment includes an axle system allowing reduced trailer deck height, open trailer sides, and peripheral trailer stabilizer legs, said axle system comprising aligned axle structures at each of two sides of the trailer, each said axle structure including a sleeve fixedly attached to the trailer body and including an axle assembly slidably received in the sleeve such that the sleeve and axle assembly is structured to allow removal and insertion of an axle assembly on one trailer side without the necessity of replacing the axle assembly on the other trailer side.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 3, 2012Publication date: January 10, 2013Inventor: John A. Vlahakis
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Patent number: 8327895Abstract: A sealing body disposed about a rotating drive axle and forming an air chamber thereabout. The drive axle is provided with an air conduit extending therein and communicating air from the air chamber to the center of the drive axle and for delivery to tires via the wheel at the center of the axle flange. The sealing body includes an air conduit in communication with the air chamber, and is configured to secure to remain stationary about the drive axle axially rotating therein. The sealing body is typically disposed between the drive axle splines and the wheel and forms an air seal thereabout. The sealing body may comprise of a plurality of parts when the splines have a greater diameter than the remainder of the drive axle, but may also comprise of a unitary body configured to be axially disposed over the splines when the splines have a diameter consistent with the drive axle.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2010Date of Patent: December 11, 2012Assignee: Fleet Technologies LLCInventor: Clyde G. Stech
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Publication number: 20120267177Abstract: A crop sprayer includes a pivoting axle suspension assembly that includes a bolster assembly secured between the frame rails of the main frame of the crop sprayer. The bolster assembly includes formed tube members that support a bearing structure for pivotably coupling a pivot pin of a pivot axle to the main frame. The tube members are curved downwardly from the main frame.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 23, 2011Publication date: October 25, 2012Applicant: EQUIPMENT TECHNOLOGIES, INC.Inventors: Chad A. Ringer, Justin Honegger, Ryan Larsh, Jarrett Waters
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Publication number: 20120217793Abstract: An axle tube comprising a dry section interposing a first wet section and a second wet section, the first and second wet sections housing a liquid lubricant, the dry section having an interior isolated from the liquid lubricant, at least one of the first and second wet sections includes a power train, and at least one of the first and second wet sections includes an electric motor, wherein the electric motor is at least partially received within the dry section, wherein a fluidic seal interposes the electric motor and the dry section, and wherein the electric motor is not rigidly mounted to the dry section.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 24, 2011Publication date: August 30, 2012Inventors: Carolyn Lambka Drum, Christopher M. Ruden, Kinte Allen, Mark Cherney
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Publication number: 20120212040Abstract: A one-piece double-step offset axle with an offset center section located between two eccentric steps is disclosed. The offset center section locates and supports the front wheel and may be adjusted to a plurality of locations relative to the forks by rotating the axle in the fork axle housings before the axle pinch bolts or nuts are tightened. The axle facilitates adjustments to the front wheel location and allows riders, mechanics, and designers to alter the chassis or frame geometry, and thus the manner, in which any given motorcycle or bicycle steers and handles according to personal preference.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 26, 2012Publication date: August 23, 2012Inventor: Brent Lorscheider
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Publication number: 20120212039Abstract: The present invention is directed to a wheel end assembly having a high temperature warning system for giving a warning in the event that the temperature in the assembly reaches a predetermined value such as caused by hub bearing failure or a brake related failure. In one embodiment the system may be a stand-alone system for installation on any vehicle such as a trailer. In another embodiment the system may be combined with an automatic tire inflation system.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 30, 2012Publication date: August 23, 2012Inventors: Frank Joseph Sonzala, Mark Kevin Hennig
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Publication number: 20120212041Abstract: A twistable closed profile crossmember for a rear axle of a motor vehicle, the crossmember making it possible to connect two longitudinal arms of the axle. The crossmember includes a tube including: end portions that are each connectable to one of the two arms; an intermediate portion that is deep-drawn so as to obtain a U- or V-shaped transverse section wherein the inner walls of the tube are separated by a space; and two transition portions having a transverse section modified to connect each end portion to the intermediate portion. The crossmember further includes two inserts, each closing one end of the intermediate portion on all or part of the length of each transition portion to avoid all contact between the inner walls at the intermediate portion when the crosspiece is subject to a twisting force.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 13, 2010Publication date: August 23, 2012Applicant: RENAULT S.A.S.Inventor: Guillaume Hachet
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Publication number: 20120211961Abstract: In one aspect, the invention is directed to a twist beam axle for a vehicle. The twist beam axle includes a twist beam and a reinforcement member. The twist beam has a longitudinal axis and has a generally concave cross-sectional shape. The reinforcement member extends longitudinally and is connected to the twist beam to form a longitudinally extending tubular form therewith. The twist beam has first and second side walls. At least one of the side walls extends outside of the tubular form. The tubular form has cross-sectional dimensions that are selected based on the vehicle on which the twist beam axle is to be used.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 1, 2010Publication date: August 23, 2012Applicant: MAGNA INTERNATIONAL INC.Inventors: Ying Zhang, James R. Byrne, II, Alexander Zak, Seetarama S. Kotagiri, Nikhil Madan Yardi
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Publication number: 20120200146Abstract: In one example, a structure for attaching a wheel to one of a frame of a motorcycle or a bicycle may include an axle having first and second opposing end portions and supporting a wheel, a left axle support collar structure configured to support the first opposing end portion of the axle, and a right axle support collar structure configured to support the second opposing end portion of the axle. A first bearing is positioned in the left axle support collar structure, and a second bearing is positioned in the left axle support collar structure. The axle rotates relative to the frame.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 23, 2012Publication date: August 9, 2012Applicant: YETI CYCLING, LLCInventor: Steven W. Hoogendoorn
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Publication number: 20120187749Abstract: Generators are not new. They have been around for a long time. We find them in windmills, in hydroelectric dams, and in many other applications where kinetic energy, in these cases in the form of wind and falling water, is harnessed and turned into electricity. I propose to harness the kinetic energy of an automobile (and other devices) by turning the axles into generators. I propose to do this by wrapping the axles in wire and either magnetizing the axle tube or lining it with magnets on two sides. Then, when the axle spins, the wire will turn in a magnetic field, thereby creating electricity which can be routed directly to the battery to prolong its charge.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 23, 2011Publication date: July 26, 2012Inventor: Thomas Grady
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Patent number: 8226098Abstract: The suspension system of the present invention broadly comprises a method of retrofitting an existing torsion axle suspension carried by a frame with an air spring comprising the steps of removing an original torsion axle that was fixed to a frame from the frame and mounting the torsion axle to at least one rotatable arm such that rotation of the arm causes vertical translation of the original torsion axle. The suspension system also comprises a retrofit kit for use with a torsion axle suspension system having a torsion axle and a spindle comprising a hanger bracket adapted to be attachable to the frame, a pivot arm for mounting to the hanger bracket and adapted for rotatably supporting the existing torsion axle, an air spring, a support assembly secured to the pivot arm for supporting the air spring, and an attachment for securing the pivot arm to the support assembly.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2010Date of Patent: July 24, 2012Assignee: Air Suspensions, Inc.Inventors: Ervin K. VanDenberg, David H. Croston
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Patent number: 8226099Abstract: A connection system for connecting a supporting arm to an axle body comprises a first and a second supporting element each having a reinforced region, wherein the first and second supporting elements cooperate to substantially enclose the axle body, and wherein contact regions created between the first and second supporting elements are substantially vertically aligned.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2007Date of Patent: July 24, 2012Assignee: SAF-Holland GmbHInventor: Hubert B. Koschinat
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Publication number: 20120146396Abstract: A vehicle axle is provided with a main body defined by the combination of a channel having an inverted U-shaped configuration and a bottom plate. The ends of the main body are curved upwardly to define a pair of gooseneck portions. Axle head sections are formed at the ends of the axle and are closed off by end extensions extending from the front and rear walls of the channel and a cover flap extension extending from the top wall of the channel. A head plate having a rounded back edge and/or a pocket is inserted within the space between the cover flap and the top edges of the end extensions.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 9, 2011Publication date: June 14, 2012Inventors: John S. Bubulka, Sammy C. Lumetta, Ashley T. Dudding, Jerry M. Lovett, Robert P. Sellberg
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Publication number: 20120048390Abstract: Aluminum-based alloys for casting or wrought processing having improved combinations of properties, including improved high temperature strength, are provided. The alloys generally comprise copper, magnesium, silver, and titanium, along with scandium and/or cobalt. Zirconium, zinc, and/or vanadium may also optionally be present in the alloy. When cobalt is present in the alloy, nickel may also optionally be present. Cast and wrought products, as well as methods of making the same using the alloys, are also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 25, 2011Publication date: March 1, 2012Applicant: SPIRIT AEROSYSTEMS, INC.Inventors: Rahbar Nasserrafi, LaVerne L. Waalkes, Gerald E. Hicks, Kevin Obrachta, David E. Jakstis
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Patent number: 8118372Abstract: The invention relates to a wheel hub arrangement (1) having at least one wheel hub (2) which is mounted rotatably via at least one wheel bearing (3) on a bearing journal (4) of an axle body (5) which is mounted on a vehicle chassis. Furthermore, the wheel hub arrangement (1) can have a brake system (6). The bearing journal (4) is assigned a display device for displaying critical temperature loading of the wheel bearing (3) and/or the brake system (6), wherein this display device has a display element which responds when critical temperature loading is exceeded.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2006Date of Patent: February 21, 2012Assignee: SAF-HOLLAND, GmbHInventor: Hubert Koschinat
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Publication number: 20120019053Abstract: An apparatus that includes a first member, an insert, and an object. The first member made of a first metal and has a first exterior surface and a first end. A pocket is formed in the exterior surface of the first end. The insert is made of a second, different metal. The insert is connected to the pocket and has a second exterior surface that is flush with the first exterior surface. The object is formed of the second metal and is resistance welded to the insert. The second metal is steel and the first metal is a metal that cannot be resistance welded directly to steel.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 25, 2011Publication date: January 26, 2012Applicant: American Axle & Manufacturing, Inc.Inventors: Stephen C. Doud, Blair J. Swanson, Jeffrey E. Rea
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Patent number: 8075064Abstract: The invention provides motorist a lock-unlock wheel that rotates independently around its center hub, which remains mounted to the axle of a subject vehicle. The rim allows vehicles to be towed without vehicle axle rotation, while eliminating odometer reading due to towing. The invention comprises an inner hub spindle that is able to be unlocked from the wheel, allowing for independent rotation of the inner spindle. And, when unlocked via a bolting system, the invention's wheel section rotates while also eliminating effects of a vehicle drive and brake system while the vehicle is in tow.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 2009Date of Patent: December 13, 2011Inventor: Gregory Joe Johnson
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Patent number: 8047617Abstract: A flexible axle for motor vehicle has a cross-member (1) connecting two longitudinal arms (2), wherein said cross-member (1) has a closed cross-section, and said cross-member has, at least in a central zone, a substantially trapezoid cross-section (11).Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 2005Date of Patent: November 1, 2011Assignee: Auto Chassis International SNCInventors: Bruno Riffier, Patrice Fabbro, Raymond Deslande, Jacques Foulquier
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Publication number: 20110227402Abstract: The invention relates to a motor vehicle axle component and a method for producing a motor vehicle axle component. The axle component, for example a dead beam axle, includes a light metal body, such as aluminum or magnesium or corresponding alloys, and a tubular body in form of a steel tube, which are adhesively connected with each other. An adhesive pocket filled with an adhesive is formed between an end of the tubular body and a cylindrical receptacle of the light metal body. Respective bezels are arranged on a free end of the receptacle and on a free end of the tubular body. The spaces between the respective bezels and adjacent walls are filled with adhesive, which seals the interior and exterior transition regions of the joint zone, thus protecting the joint zone against corrosion, improving the load characteristic of the axle component and increasing its service life.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 19, 2010Publication date: September 22, 2011Applicant: Benteler Automobiltechnik GmbHInventors: Michael Wibbeke, Jürgen Krogmeier
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Patent number: 7976036Abstract: A steering knuckle for adapting a unit bearing front axle of a vehicle using original equipment manufacturer (OEM) spindle and wheel hub assembly parts to replace the unit-bearing wheel assembly, wherein the steering knuckle comprises a first side of the steering knuckle that is configured to receive one or more components of the OEM spindle and wheel hub assembly. The steering knuckle includes a boring for receiving a spindle hub on an OEM spindle, and one or more apertures circumferentially spaced around the boring and for alignment with holes on a spindle flange of the OEM spindle. Studs are inserted through the apertures of the steering knuckle for securing the OEM spindle to the steering knuckle. A second side of the steering knuckle is configured to be affixed in pivoting relationship to an axle housing of the vehicle wherein the axle housing is originally manufactured to be linked to a unit-bearing steering knuckle.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2009Date of Patent: July 12, 2011Inventor: Dennis Reid
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Patent number: 7967308Abstract: A twist beam axle assembly includes a twist tube and a tubular sleeve. The twist tube has a deformed portion with a non-circular cross-section positioned adjacent to an undeformed portion with a substantially circular cross-section. The tubular sleeve is positioned within and coupled to the twist beam to overlap the adjacent deformed and undeformed portions. An outer surface of the sleeve engages an inner surface of the twist tube.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2008Date of Patent: June 28, 2011Assignee: Magna International Inc.Inventor: Dieter Toepker
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Patent number: 7954832Abstract: An axle beam includes a hollow beam body with at least first and second apertures formed in opposing wall portions of the hollow beam body. A stiffener is received within the first and second apertures and is fixed to the hollow beam body at an attachment interface.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 2008Date of Patent: June 7, 2011Assignee: ArvinMeritor Technology, LLCInventors: Tomaz D. Varela, James Trotter, Xinyu Wen, Kou Yang
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Publication number: 20110121639Abstract: A method of press-forming a tubular part having a cross section of an irregular shape crushes a steel tube between an upper die and a lower die in order to form a V-shaped cross section. When the curvature radius of a tip of the upper die is defined as R1, the curvature radius of a bottom portion of the lower die corresponding to the tip of the upper die is defined as R2, and the wall thickness of the steel tube is defined as t; R1, R2, and t satisfy R1+2t=R2 and 1.5t?R1?3t.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 12, 2009Publication date: May 26, 2011Inventors: Takaaki Fukushi, Isao Anai, Yasushi Yamamoto, Hideyuki Nakamura, Yoshiaki Kadoma, Naoki Hori
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Publication number: 20110101771Abstract: One embodiment of a steering axle may include a hollow tube having a pair of end portions. The steering axle may also include a pair of inserts coupled to a respective one of the end portions for reinforcing the same.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 4, 2009Publication date: May 5, 2011Inventor: Oswaldo De Freitas Junior
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Publication number: 20110094815Abstract: A stack axle assembly as used in a cask transporter or an horizontal storage module (HSM) gantry transporter. The stack axle assemblies include a slew gear; an upper bearing; a lower bearing; a vertical cylinder retained by the slew gear, upper bearing and lower bearing; an independent driver wheel and idler wheel revolving on a common shaft/trunnion assembly attached to the bottom of the vertical cylinder; a frame assembly formed on top of the vertical cylinder, the frame assembly including one or more drive motors connecting an upper drive assembly downwardly to a driven assembly mounted between the idler wheel and driver wheel; and a slew driver motor to drive the slew gear.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 23, 2009Publication date: April 28, 2011Inventor: Melvin Dean Terry
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Publication number: 20110084546Abstract: A bicycle axle assembly includes an axle in the form of a support part for a hub. The axle has a threaded end and a fast-action clamp end. The assembly includes a fast-action clamping device having a clamping axle disposed coaxially with the axle. The bicycle axle assembly has a stop device disposed and formed such that, on clamping the fast-action clamping device, the clamping axle is supported on the axle in the axial direction of the axle.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 17, 2010Publication date: April 14, 2011Inventor: Dirk Martin Lüde
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Publication number: 20110080039Abstract: A countersteering vehicle rear axle induces a rotational motion of a wheel carrier about a virtual spread axis in the toe-in direction under the influence of a lateral force on the outside cornering wheel mounted on the wheel carrier. A support member exhibits a section, which extends essentially parallel to the plane of the wheel carrier, and a section, which is connected, when viewed in the direction of travel, to former section behind the wheel center point and extends essentially in the transverse direction of the vehicle. In a lateral projection, the support member is inclined in relation to the vertical direction in essentially the same way as the virtual spread axis. This support member is supported at least on the free ends of a sheet metal support plate, which in a lateral projection is approximately U-shaped and which in turn is mounted on the axle body.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 13, 2010Publication date: April 7, 2011Applicant: Bayerische Motoren Werke AktiengesellschaftInventor: Benjamin JAKOB
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Patent number: 7878518Abstract: The invention concerns a motor vehicle flexible axle comprising two longitudinal arms (20) connected by a cross bracing (10) with open cross-section whereof the flanks (11), (21) have each an edge (1), (2) extending between docking zones (4) with the ends of said cross bracing. The invention is characterized in that said edges (1), (2) have a non-rectilinear shape enhancing their tensioning when said cross member is subjected to torsion, said tensioning enabling said docking zones (4) to be relieved of stresses due to said torsion.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2006Date of Patent: February 1, 2011Assignee: Auto Chassis International SNCInventor: Alexis De Pompignan
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Patent number: 7871092Abstract: A motor vehicle axle system including two longitudinal arms made of molded material and a torsionally flexible cross bracing made of high strength material different from the material of the arms, each arm including a lug for assembling by structural bonding the cross bracing to the arms. Each lug has an assembling edge configured to be assembled to one end of the cross bracing by generating self-binding with a surface of the cross bracing, an adhesive layer being applied between the assembling edge and the surface of the cross bracing, and the assembling edge of each lug has a variable thickness along its periphery and in the direction of the lug axis, the thickness being selected so as to minimize stresses exerted on the adhesive in the assembling zone. A method assembles the motor vehicle axle system.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 2005Date of Patent: January 18, 2011Assignee: Renault S.A.S.Inventors: Jacques Renard, Alexis De Pompignan, Bernard Criqui, Julien Berson, Samuel Fays
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Patent number: 7866759Abstract: A method for manufacturing a one-piece axle tube housing with localized sections of increased wall thickness includes providing a tube blank, inserting a mandrel having a reduced diameter profile, passing the tube through an extrusion die to conform the tube to the shape of the mandrel; and extraction of the mandrel from the tube to cause outward deformation of the tube at specific locations. A further reducing step may be used to form the final desired profile, including reduced inner and outer diameters along sections of the axle tube housing.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2008Date of Patent: January 11, 2011Assignee: Arcelormittal Tubular Products Canada Inc.Inventors: Mamad Jahani, Colin Newport
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Publication number: 20110001350Abstract: The invention relates to an axle assembly for a commercial vehicle, having an axle produced from a first metal material and at least one trailing link produced from a second metal material which has a connecting portion with a seat in which the axle sits with a hollow coupling portion such that the axle and the trailing link are in torque-proof engagement with one another.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 27, 2008Publication date: January 6, 2011Applicant: SCHMITZ CARGOBULL AGInventors: Peter Schmitz, Jorg Ebert
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Patent number: 7862058Abstract: A fabricated vehicle axle is provided with a single piece main body having an inverted U-shaped configuration. The ends of the main body are curved upwardly to define a pair of gooseneck portions. A first king pin fixture having a king pin bore is secured to one of the gooseneck portions, while a second king pin fixture having a king pin bore is secured to the other gooseneck portion. A bottom plate is secured to the main body and has ends extending beyond the gooseneck portions to provide seats for the king pin fixtures.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2008Date of Patent: January 4, 2011Assignee: Hendrickson USA L.L.C.Inventors: John Stephen Bubulka, Ashley Thomas Dudding, Jerome Lim Cortez
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Patent number: 7854438Abstract: A trailing arm suspension system and method of manufacture wherein a tubular axle is formed with a central area and trailing arm attachment areas outboard of the central area. The axle central area and attachment areas have a substantially uniform outer surface diameter, and the wall thickness of the attachment areas is thicker/greater than the wall thickness of the central area. Inboard and outboard arm brackets are secured by welding to the axle arm attachment areas and trailing arms are secured, at one end thereof, between an inboard and an outboard arm bracket. At their other ends, the trailing arms are adapted to be pivotally secured to the vehicle. The arm brackets are secured to the axle by inserting the axle through an axle receiving hole in the brackets and providing a 360° weld bead at the interface between the axle and arm brackets.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 2009Date of Patent: December 21, 2010Assignee: Tuthill CorporationInventor: Gregory A. Richardson
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Publication number: 20100314933Abstract: A countersteering rear vehicle axle, which under the effect of a lateral force upon the wheel that is outside during cornering and is fastened to a wheel carrier, causes a rotating movement of this wheel carrier about a virtual steering axle inclination in the toe-in direction. The wheel carrier is supported by supporting elements on an axle body extending essentially in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. Above and below the wheel center, in each case, two torsionally soft but bend-resistant supporting elements are provided which are essentially equally inclined with respect to the vertical direction. An upper linkage supporting element is supported, on the one side, on the wheel carrier and, on the other side, on an upper torsion supporting element which is supported on the axle body. A lower linkage supporting element is supported on the wheel carrier, on the one side, and on a lower torsion supporting element, on the other side.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 23, 2010Publication date: December 16, 2010Applicant: Bayerische Motoren Werke AktiengesellschaftInventor: Benjamin JAKOB
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Publication number: 20100193303Abstract: An improved brake spider and anchor pin assembly in which weight, cost, manufacture, axle installation and maintenance is improved over prior brake spider designs. The improved brake spider is built up from light weight, relatively inexpensive stampings which are joined together, for example by welding, to form a strong built-up brake spider component. In one embodiment, two steel stampings formed with flanges and stamped strengthening ribs are welded together to form a hollow, structure which has the strength to withstand high brake force loads and large numbers of brake cycles. The built up brake spider may include one or more captured inserts in the form of anchor pin assemblies and a brake actuator rod pass-through support. The anchor pin insert may be in the form of a trunion having a middle section with a greater diameter than corresponding holes in the shell plates to preclude axial motion.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 5, 2009Publication date: August 5, 2010Applicant: Bendix Spicer Foundation Brake LLCInventors: Shen LI, Larry S. JEVNIKAR, Troy Allen FLODIN, Jeff JONES, Dan BANKS
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Patent number: 7763825Abstract: An axle beam for an industrial vehicle has a beam and a boss. The beam is supported on a vehicle body. The boss is provided at opposite ends of the beam for supporting a kingpin. The beam includes at a longitudinally middle thereof a portion having a closed cross-section perpendicular to a longitudinal direction of the beam and is shaped at the portion to form a space which is surrounded by a front and rear and a top and bottom of the beam. The portion is formed by welding two members or by one tube member.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2008Date of Patent: July 27, 2010Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toyota JidoshokkiInventor: Kenichi Katae
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Patent number: 7712843Abstract: A front wheel of a golf cart includes a supporting component, a round rotating member, and a joining shaft coupling the rotating member to the supporting component; the supporting component includes a holding part, which has an outer stopping protrusion, a polygonal portion, and a round portion adjoining the polygonal portion; the shaft includes a shank partly held in the holding part; a spring biases the shaft to such a position that the shaft is prevented from rotating by the polygonal portion; a fixing component is secured around other end of the shank, and contains the stopping protrusion; the fixing component has a polygonal hollow portion to fit closely around the polygonal portion to prevent the shaft from rotating; the round rotating member can be turned together with the shaft to fold the front wheel after the polygonal hollow portion is relocated around the round portion.Type: GrantFiled: May 29, 2008Date of Patent: May 11, 2010Assignee: Sports World Enterprise Co., Ltd.Inventor: Fang-Li Wu
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Patent number: 7708352Abstract: A vehicle axle includes an axle housing defining a cavity. The axle includes a pair of outer drive shafts, each being coaxially received in a respective housing cavity and slidable therein, each outer drive shaft defining a splined cavity. The axle includes a pair of inner drive shafts, each having a splined end coaxially coupled to a respective outer drive shaft splined cavity such that a respective outer drive shaft is slidably movable therein. A piston is attached to the inner end of each outer drive shaft and separates an inner fluid chamber from an outer fluid chamber. A fluid channel includes opposed ends in communication with respective fluid chambers. A force absorption container is in fluid communication with each fluid channel and includes a compression spring, wherein the spring is compressed when movement of the piston pushes fluid through the channel into the force absorption container.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2009Date of Patent: May 4, 2010Inventor: Mark Brooks
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Patent number: 7708124Abstract: An anchoring sleeve assembly for securing a plurality of component systems to an axle tube housing. In one aspect, the anchoring sleeve assembly is pre-machined prior to installation on the axle tube housing to reduce the need for further machining operations once coupled to the axle tube housing. In particular, the anchoring sleeve assembly includes an annular portion defining a sleeve bore and a plurality of fixation apertures positioned about the annular portion. The anchoring sleeve assembly includes a plurality of extended portions projecting outwardly from the annular portion. Each extended portion from the plurality of extended portions fixedly receives a respective component system from the plurality of component systems to ultimately secure the component system to the axle tube housing.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2006Date of Patent: May 4, 2010Inventors: Mitchell (“Mitch”) Lee Rackers, Donald Michael Radeka, Gregory Paul Lopez
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Patent number: 7686312Abstract: A blank for an axle beam intended to support a wheel axle is formed from a continuous piece and, at its respective ends, has, on the one hand, a bushing constituting a bearing for a kingpin for supporting a wheel spindle and, on the other hand, lug-shaped protrusions on each side of the bushing, and a wheel axle made from such a blank. The invention can provide a blank which is suitable both for steerable and non-steerable wheel axles for vehicles.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2005Date of Patent: March 30, 2010Assignee: Volvo Lastvagnar ABInventors: Leon Fuks, Roland Svensson
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Patent number: 7665746Abstract: A king pin is mounted in a hollow axle. An insert is force fit into each end of the hollow axle. The insert includes an aperture that aligns with an aperture in a wall of the hollow axle to provide a mount structure for the king pin. This mount structure thus provides a solid and reliable mount in a very simplified manner. The hollow axle and insert are also provided with draw key holes such that bolts may lock the king pin within the insert and the hollow axle.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 2006Date of Patent: February 23, 2010Assignee: ArvinMeritor Technology, LLCInventor: David K. Platner