Patents by Inventor Dean Hobbensiefken

Dean Hobbensiefken has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Tag axle for sub-frame of heavy duty truck power module
    Patent number: 4181189
    Abstract: To increase the load carrying capacity of a truck employing a separable power module having a sub-frame coupled to the main frame of a forward steerable unit and trailing therefrom, a trailing or tag axle assembly has its trailing arms coupled to the sub-frame of the power module through transverse axis non-slip rubber bushings. The tag axle proper is coupled to the rear ends of the trailing arms through longitudinal axis non-slip rubber bushings. The tag axle assembly includes seats for air springs disposed directly over the tag axle and carried by an extension of the main frame of the forward steerable unit. Stresses induced by sharp turning of the vehicle are transmitted to the sub-frame of the power module and not to the main frame of the vehicle resulting in better steerability and less wear and tear on tires and mechanical structures. The increased load carrying capacity of the truck is obtained with a minimal weight increase and with comparatively low cost of manufacturing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1978
    Date of Patent: January 1, 1980
    Inventor: Dean Hobbensiefken
  • Transmission shift control
    Patent number: 3978739
    Abstract: Gear shift movements from a main frame are transmitted to a gear transmission shift control, located on a sub-frame pivotally connected to the main frame, by means of a linkage system fixed at one end to the main frame and articulating at its opposite end with the sub-frame about an axis non-coincident with the pivot axis of the frames. The linkage system includes interconnected links, one of which being axially collapsible for transmitting rotational movement regardless of any sub-frame pivoting. The linkage system also includes a resilient cable which spans the collapsible link for transmitting axial movements thereacross.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1975
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1976
    Inventors: Dean Hobbensiefken, Michael A. Signa
  • Removable vehicle chassis sub-frame with engine
    Patent number: RE28675
    Abstract: A heavy duty motor vehicle has a main frame with a forward axle and steerable ground wheels. A power unit sub-frame carrying a rear axle is releasably secured to the main frame, and includes an engine assembly which is located at an intermediate position between the axles. The unit may also include a fifth wheel assembly whereby it becomes a towing vehicle for a further trailer unit or units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 1974
    Date of Patent: January 6, 1976
    Inventor: Dean Hobbensiefken