Abstract: A vehicle differential case is disclosed, the case having an interior and an exterior configuration which provides an increased internal volume for, among other things, lubricant for components of the differential mechanism, while at the same time providing excellent structural strength. Importantly, the weight versus stiffness ratio of the differential case so described is significantly improved compared to known differential cases.

Abstract: A differential carrier housing having both reduced weight and improved strength along the operational load path of the housing is provided. The housing includes a hollow rib that extends from a forward end rearward of an outer bearing for an input shaft to a rear end at a flange on the carrier housing that is connected to an axle housing.

Abstract: A vehicle differential case is disclosed, the case having an interior and an exterior configuration which provides an increased internal volume for, among other things, lubricant for components of the differential mechanism, while at the same time providing excellent structural strength. Importantly, the weight versus stiffness ratio of the differential case so described is significantly improved compared to known differential cases.

Abstract: The present invention provides a torsion attenuator for a vehicle frame having first and second longitudinal frame rails extending substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis. A torsion attenuator in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention includes first and second brackets coupled to the first and second frame rails, respectively. The torsion attenuator further includes a cable coupled at a first end to the first bracket, and coupled at a second end to the second bracket. A torsion attenuator in accordance with the present invention provides that the torsional loads are distributed to the frame rail system, rather than to the individual rails. Such a torsion attenuator may be especially advantageous in suspension systems that employ air springs.

Abstract: A differential carrier housing having both reduced weight and improved strength along the operational load path of the housing is provided. The housing includes a hollow rib that extends from a forward end rearward of an outer bearing for an input shaft to a rear end at a flange on the carrier housing that is connected to an axle housing.

Abstract: A vehicle safety pedal apparatus includes a foot engaging portion, a linkage attachment for attaching the pedal apparatus to a vehicle, a pedal linkage coupled between the linkage attachment and the foot engaging portion including first and second sub-linkages and a shock absorber coupled between the first and second sub-linkages to absorb shock during a collision of a person's lower extremity with the pedal apparatus during a motor vehicle accident, the shock absorber including a sleeve on the first sub-linkage forming a cavity, and a pin, the sleeve further including through aligned apertures and the second sub-linkage further including an elongated aperture, the apertures of the sleeve aligned with the elongated aperture, and the pin extending through the aligned apertures, thereby providing limited slidable engagement of the sub-linkages, the cavity containing a resilient shock absorbing material that is capable of restoring its shock absorbing capacity after absorbing an initial shock.