Abstract: This set of equipment for a motor vehicle includes an inflatable structure, an element acting as a support for the inflatable structure, an element forming a load-spreading plate and at least one frangible member for fixing the load-spreading plate to the support. The set includes a sheath, an open first end which is fixed to the support and an open second end which is fixed to the load-spreading plate to form the inflatable structure. The frangible member includes a thin web, a peripheral region which is fixed to a first element, either the load-spreading plate or the support, and a central region which is fixed to the other of these elements.

Abstract: A multi-position track width sensor for agricultural sprayers wherein a piston rod position sensor is connected to each of the adjustable axle members of the front and rear axle assemblies of the sprayer. A display panel is mounted in the cab of the sprayer and includes LEDs which indicate various positions of the piston rods with respect to the respective cylinder.

Abstract: A steerable lift axle/suspension system for a heavy-duty vehicle such as a semi-trailer or a straight truck, includes a pair of steering dampers and a backup lock. The steering dampers minimize shimmy of the steerable wheels during over-the-road operation of the vehicle, and straighten the wheels on such steerable axle/suspension systems having a lift feature when the system is raised. The backup lock secures the wheels in a straightened position when such liftable systems are raised and the vehicle is backing up, to minimize vehicle handling problems. The steering dampers and backup lock are mounted at a location off the axle tube of the axle and on the axle/suspension system beams, to eliminate stress on the axle that would otherwise be caused by welded attachment of such components to the axle tube, thereby enabling use of a less robust, more lightweight axle tube.

Abstract: A lower arm assembly comprises a lower arm, a front fluid-filled bushing, a rear fluid-filled bushing, and a fluid transferring pipe extending between the bushings. Each of the front and rear bushings has an outer pipe, an inner pipe, and a shock absorbing member. A fluid chamber is formed within the shock absorbing member. The fluid transferring pipe connects the fluid chambers of the front and rear bushings together such that the fluid can transfer between the fluid chambers. Therefore, with the lower arm assembly according to the embodiment of the present invention, riding comfort and cornering stability can be simultaneously improved.

Abstract: An anti-skid device for use in cooperation with a vehicle wheel for positioning a traction member beneath the vehicle wheel includes a frame assembly constructed and arranged to be attached to the vehicle, a swing arm pivotally connected to the frame, and an electric, linear actuator having an extendable shaft. The anti-skid device includes a double pivot link where one end is attached to the frame assembly and the opposite end is attached to the swing arm. The linear actuator is attached to a movable pressure plate and a biasing spring is positioned between the movable pressure plate and a back plate for applying and maintaining contact pressure of the traction wheel against the vehicle wheel. In the preferred embodiment, the traction member is a length of chain that is connected to the traction wheel for positioning between the vehicle wheel and the road surface.

Abstract: An apparatus (10) for helping to protect an occupant of a vehicle includes an inflatable vehicle occupant protection device (12). An inflator (14) provides inflation fluid for inflating the protection device (12). A vent member (30) includes at least one vent opening (62) for venting the inflation fluid. A vent cover (100) has a closed condition for blocking fluid flow through the at least one vent opening (62) and an open condition for permitting fluid flow through the at least one vent opening. The vent cover (100) includes a side wall (110) that has at least one portion (134, 372) that projects from the side wall into the vent member (30) to help maintain the vent cover in the closed condition.