Abstract: A multi-stage resiliently compressible element for providing a biasing element having at least two portions having different compression resistances from one another. The multi-stage resiliently compressible element includes a resiliently compressible element comprising a resiliently deformable elastomeric material and having top and bottom faces and a side surface. The side surface of the resiliently compressible element has an annular channel therearound which divides the resiliently compressible element into top and bottom portions. The resiliently compressible element has a bore therethrough extending between the top and bottom faces. The bore has generally cylindrical top and bottom regions and top and bottom chambers interposed between the top and bottom regions of the bore.

Abstract: A suspension system for wheeled vehicles, in particular, trailers and especially semi-trailers. The suspension system includes a platform with a top seat supported above an arcuate bottom saddle. The bottom saddle of the platform is designed for resting on an axle of a vehicle such that the top seat is positioned above the axle. Upper and lower pivot arms are provided each having a pair of opposite ends. A first end of each of the pivot arms is pivotally coupled to the platform. A hanger member has a top plate and a side brace downwardly extending from the top plate of the hanger member. The top plate of the hanger member has a proximal portion and a distal portion. The side brace of the hanger member is coupled to the proximal portion of the top plate. The top plate of the hanger member is positioned above the top seat of the platform. The top plate of the hanger member is designed for attachment to a support frame of a trailer. A second end of each of the pivot arms is pivotally coupled to the side brace.

Abstract: An air suspension system including an air spring that is mounted underneath a frame of the trailer forward of an axle of the trailer at one end of the axle. The air spring is supported under the frame by a lower support that supports a bottom of the air spring and an upper support that supports a top of the air spring. The lower support is connected to the frame forward of the air spring and is further connected to the axle, while the upper support is disposed between the top of the air spring and the frame. An identical air spring arrangement is provided at the opposite end of the axle.