Abstract: An elongated single-unit vehicle having a steering system that provides increased vehicle maneuverability at slow speeds. The vehicle has a front steering axle connected to steerable front wheel assemblies, an auxiliary steering axle connected to steerable wheel assemblies and positioned rearward of the front steering axle, and a rear axle and wheel assemblies rearward of the auxiliary steering axle and positioned at the rear portion of the vehicle. A remotely adjustable linkage assembly is coupled to the front and auxiliary steering axles and connected to the steerable front end auxiliary wheel assemblies, so the ratio of the degree of wheel turn of the front wheels to the degree of wheel turn of the auxiliary wheels can be adjusted from a remote position, such as the driving compartment of the vehicle.

Abstract: A modular frame for automotive vehicles, which comprises a pair of side rails oriented parallel to one another, each side rail having a plurality of apertures being substantially similar in size and shape with respect to one another. Cross members and auxiliary mounts are secured to the side rails by adapters that have a size and shape corresponding to the apertures in the side rails. The means for securing the adapters to the side rails allows the load to be distributed over a wide area of the side rail to reduce stress concentrations. The combination of the adapters and the plurality of similar sized apertures results in a modular structural frame connection system for vehicles.

Abstract: A vehicle dual axle suspension comprising a force transmitting structure connected at one end thereof to a forward axle of the vehicle, and at the opposite end thereof to the rear axle, and a central resilient bushing for fastening the force transmitting structure to a cross member of the frame of the vehicle at the mid-point of the force transmitting structure. In one embodiment, the force transmitting structure is a spring plate having a relatively small thickness extending in the vertical direction of the vehicle and having a relatively large width extending in the transverse direction with respect to the vehicle. Other embodiments include resilient bars, and rigid arms pivotally attached to one another. The forward and rear axles are permitted to move substantially independently of one another in the vertical direction as necessary to provide a soft ride when traveling down the highway.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for aerodynamically braking a tractor-trailer combination utilizing a centrally pivoted, fast-acting door within a roof-mounted aerodynamic fairing to selectively expose and conceal the front surface of the trailer, which is masked by the fairing, and in one embodiment, to operate the door cooperatively with the vehicle's brake system.