With Means For Changing Number Of Supporting Wheels, Or For Adjusting Relative Location Thereof Patents (Class 180/209)
-
Patent number: 8820758Abstract: A tag axle assembly for an agricultural machine, such as a harvester, and method for redistributing weight of the harvester from the rear axle of the harvester when a header is removed, or when replaced by a lighter header, at the front of the harvester. The tag axle assembly includes a tag axle with tires that may be lowered so that the tires contact the ground when no header is attached to the machine to absorb loads transferred from the front of the harvester to the rear axle and rear tires at the rear of the harvester. The tag axle and tires may be raised up from the ground, or the tag axle assembly may be removed from the harvester, when a header is attached to the front of the harvester causing redistribution of load from off the rear axle and rear tires.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 2011Date of Patent: September 2, 2014Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLCInventors: Kevin S. Schwinn, John Donald Watt, Tracy R. Archer
-
Patent number: 8814184Abstract: An axle-lifting device for lifting an axle of a vehicle. The axle-lifting device includes a function mechanism for generating a force component in an axle-lifting direction. The function mechanism is configured to generate a first force component for providing a first functionality and a second force component for lifting the axle in the axle-lifting direction.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 2009Date of Patent: August 26, 2014Assignee: Knorr-Bremse Systeme fuer Nutzfahrzeuge GmbHInventor: Thomas Naber
-
Patent number: 8746388Abstract: A vehicle comprising a front axle with a pair of front wheels (111, 112) having a track width adjustable between a wide track and a narrow track, a drive rear axle with a rear wheel (121), steering means configured to control the turn of the rear wheel (121) when the front wheels (111, 112) are set to the narrow track and track width control means configured to change the track width of the front wheels (111, 112) and to change the wheel base between the front axle and the rear axle such that for the wide track of the front wheels (111, 112) the wheel base is longer than for the narrow track of the front wheels (111, 112).Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2011Date of Patent: June 10, 2014Assignee: Jaxa NetworksInventor: Rafal Budweil
-
Patent number: 8726833Abstract: A system for painting a structure includes a motorized, wheeled vehicle that is movable along a surface and includes a frame and a lift structure coupled with the frame. The system also includes a support structure supported by the lift structure, and a table supported by the support structure. The table is translatable relative to the support structure. The system also includes a mount structure rotatably coupled with the table and a kit of parts that includes a spray head assembly configured for releasable attachment to the mount structure. The system further includes a paint reservoir and a pump, each being supported by one of the vehicle and the support structure.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2012Date of Patent: May 20, 2014Inventors: Adam G. Logan, Cameron Michael Johnson, Jeffrey David Weikel
-
Patent number: 8708085Abstract: The present invention is a trailer assembly with two wheels having a tongue hitch attached to a belly plate. The belly plate is connected to a main frame chassis. The tongue hitch has engagement means which allows the trailer to be attached to a vehicle. The tongue hitch is removable and the plate is secured to the frame of a motorcycle creating a four wheel vehicle. Height adjustment risers and length adjustment risers are mounted to the plate and are engaged with the main frame rail. The trailer assembly can be adjusted to different types of motorcycles. A cross brace/bumper is secured to a distal end of the frame chassis. Decking material mounts on the frame chassis to provide storage capability.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2013Date of Patent: April 29, 2014Inventor: Franklin Delano Wilson
-
Patent number: 8702108Abstract: A vehicle having a multiple of level compensation systems is disclosed. The vehicle comprising a chassis having a left frame, a right frame and a base plate, a first level compensation system comprising a pivot joint for pivotably connecting the left and right frames to the base plate around a common rotational axis. A first axial distance from a left rotation axis of a left wheel pair to the rotational axis is different from at least one second axial distance from a right rotation axis of a right wheel pair to the rotational axis, such that the left and right wheel pair have at least one off-set to each other. Moreover a method for traversing stairs with such vehicle is disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2011Date of Patent: April 22, 2014Assignee: Zoomability ABInventors: Karri Zanderléhn, Mikael Löfstrand
-
Publication number: 20140083788Abstract: A step climbing attachment suitable for attachment to a wheeled chair is described. The step climbing attachment includes a chassis for mounting one or more ground engaging units, a first and a second ground engaging unit mounted to the chassis, at least one of the first and second ground engaging units adapted to move relative to the other of the first or second ground engaging units and the chassis, the relative movement being between a ground engaging position and a step-engaging support position so that in use at least one of the first and/or second ground engaging units engages a step.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 7, 2012Publication date: March 27, 2014Applicants: University of Technology, Sydney, Mobility 2000 (Australia) LimitedInventor: Michael Behrens
-
Patent number: 8668053Abstract: Ground conveyor with a drive part with a frame, a load part, which is attached to the frame of the drive part and the height of which is operated on the, if applicable, one load pickup means that can be actuated by a lifting device, furthermore with parallelly distanced wheel arms, which are attached with their rear ends on the frame or the load part and each support a load-bearing wheel with means for changing the distance of the wheel arms (wheel-arm width), wherein a bearing arm is fastened on the rear end of the wheel arms, which extends almost perpendicular to the wheel arm and is received fittingly and moveably in at least one bearing opening of the frame or the load part and fixing means are provided on the frame or load part, with which the axial and pivot position of the bearing arms can be releasably retained.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2007Date of Patent: March 11, 2014Assignee: Jungheinrich AktiengesellschaftInventor: Olaf Rath
-
Publication number: 20140041962Abstract: A self-moving operating machine with an axle having variable wheel gap, includes a chassis (1) to which a first axle (2) and a second axle (3) are bound respectively, and by which an operating arm (4) is supported, which is hinged with its base to the chassis (1) and carries a tool (5) at its free end. The first axle (2) and the second axle (3) are parallel to each other and provided with a pair of wheels (12) and with a pair of wheels (13) respectively. The first axle (2) has a length that varies upon command and includes at least two half-axles (2a, 2b) which are co-aligned and coupled to each other in axially sliding way. At least one of the half-axles (2a, 2b) is coupled in axially sliding way in a seat (10) made in a body (11) integral with the chassis (1) along a direction parallel to that of relative axial sliding between the two half-axles (2a, 2b).Type: ApplicationFiled: January 13, 2012Publication date: February 13, 2014Applicant: C.M.C. S.R.L. - SOCIETA UNIPERSONALEInventor: Giovanni Borghi
-
Patent number: 8640806Abstract: A transport means (1) comprising: —at least two wheels (2), —a chassis (3) with a longitudinal axis, which is substantially parallel to a direction of travel of the transport means (1), and —at least one suspension system (4) operationally positioned between the chassis (3) and the wheels (2), wherein each wheel (2) has a wheel rotation axis (5), which is substantially horizontal, wherein the suspension system (4) includes a connection means (22) that interact releasably with a connection means (23) on the chassis (3), and wherein the suspension system (4) has a first orientation, wherein the suspension system (4) has at least one other orientation which is rotated in relation to the first orientation about a suspension rotation axis (6), which is substantially horizontal and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the chassis (3).Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2010Date of Patent: February 4, 2014Assignee: Ecomove ApSInventors: Rasmus Worup, Mikkel Steen Pedersen
-
Patent number: 8632086Abstract: A trailer slider locking system includes body rails longitudinally slidable relative to a suspension frame side rail. The body rails have holes providing multiple suspension positions. A pin locking system includes a pin moveable between retracted and locked positions. An end of the pin is received in one of the holes in the locked position. The pins have tapered ends so that the pin will extend through the body rail hole prior to advancing to the fully locked position.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 2011Date of Patent: January 21, 2014Assignee: Arvinmeritor Technology, LLCInventors: Steven G. Saieg, Vern A. Caron
-
Patent number: 8607902Abstract: A width variable structure using mecanum wheels is provided, which includes a plurality of mecanum wheels, a plurality of links connecting the mecanum wheels, and motors mounted on the mecanum wheels to transfer driving forces to the links, respectively. Since the width of the structure in the horizontal and vertical directions can be adjusted using the driving forces of the mecanum wheels, components such as actuators are omitted in the overall assembly.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2011Date of Patent: December 17, 2013Assignee: Hyundai Motor CompanyInventors: Cheol Han Kim, Hee Tae Yang, Seong Ki Ha, Hee Chan Kim, Dae Yub You, Wan Lee, Sang Hyun Han
-
Patent number: 8602153Abstract: An extendable frame work vehicle offering enhanced versatility, safety and effectiveness. The vehicle includes an adjustable frame with front and rear portions that extend or retract with respect to each other. The front portion is supported by a first pair of wheels and said rear portion is supported by a second pair of wheels. Each wheel is independently driven and steered. The vehicle also includes an engine mounted on the rear portion of the frame. Incorporated into the vehicle is an electro-hydraulic assembly which enables extension and retraction of the adjustable frame. The assembly includes a sensor-responsive microprocessor controller, at least one hydraulic pump, at least one hydraulic drive motor, and at least one valve network.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 2007Date of Patent: December 10, 2013Assignee: Extendquip LLCInventors: Chris Osswald, Walter A. Osswald, Marcus F. Dack, Kenneth Buelt, Thomas E. Price, Jr., Alan Severns, Jeffrey A. Wierschke, Joe A. Racz, David R. Bauer, Justin D. Gasal
-
Patent number: 8573338Abstract: There is provided a battery powered golf cart with selectable dual operative modes, walk-behind/ride-on modes, including three units: a drive/riding unit, a golf bag support unit, and a front caster wheel assembly. The three units are interconnected for cooperative association in the two operative modes by a bar linkage system, having two stable positions.Type: GrantFiled: January 3, 2013Date of Patent: November 5, 2013Assignee: Golfit Ltd.Inventors: Shai Gal, Arie Becker
-
Patent number: 8544586Abstract: The multifunction utility cart is a compact versatile self-propelled vehicle adapted particularly for use by security and/or emergency medical personnel. The cart includes an extendable wheelbase and rear body portion for the carriage of additional personnel and/or one or more injured persons on board, yet forms a very compact vehicle when the wheelbase and bodywork are retracted. A stretcher may be deployed from one side of the cart when extended, the extended rearward portion providing for the carriage of additional personnel or a wheelchair due to a drop-down floor at the rear of the cart. Additional storage space is provided in a forward trunk and one rear fender opposite the stretcher storage area for the carriage of a fire extinguisher, medical supplies, and/or other equipment. The standing operator station may be selectively elevated to provide the operator with a better view in crowded environments.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 2012Date of Patent: October 1, 2013Inventor: Zafer J. S. Al-Osaimi
-
Patent number: 8523207Abstract: A method for securing a suspension may include attaching a frame interface device to a vehicle frame and aligning a first connector set. Two first connectors may straddle a second connector, or a first connector may be straddled by two second connectors, when the connector set is aligned. These aligned connectors may be secured by a fastener, thereby securing the suspension to the frame. A suspension attachment system may include a hanger bracket of a suspension, a frame interface device, and a connector set. Two first connectors may straddle a second connector when the connector set is aligned. The suspension may be secured to the frame as a result of the aligned and secured connector set.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2011Date of Patent: September 3, 2013Assignee: Watson & Chalin Manufacturing, Inc.Inventor: Cully B. Dodd
-
Patent number: 8523202Abstract: A suspension system is disclosed that suspends a trailing axle with steerable wheels from the tailgate of a motor vehicle with the use of a carriage, a pair of actuators and gas springs. The carriage is pivotally connected to the tailgate, the axle is directly suspended from the carriage and the actuators are pivotally connected to the carriage and tailgate and adapted to establish the carriage and thereby the axle in a stowed condition on the tailgate and in an active condition where the axle trails the vehicle at a substantial distance and the actuators are connected to the tailgate so as to contribute in an enhanced manner to the roll stability of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 2012Date of Patent: September 3, 2013Inventors: Brooks Strong, Joshua Cayne Fisher
-
Patent number: 8496259Abstract: A frame for a heavy-duty vehicle trailer includes a pair of elongated, spaced-apart parallel main members, each one having a pair of spaced apart parallel vertical walls. At least one cross member extends between and attaches to the main members, and includes a pair of spaced apart parallel transversely-extending vertical walls. Each one of a first pair of hangers includes a pair of spaced-apart parallel vertical walls that generally align and attach to the main member vertical walls. Each hanger includes a hanger support having a pair of spaced apart parallel vertical webs integrally formed with a diagonally extending side member. The hanger support attaches to the inboard hanger wall and also to the cross member. The frame reduces weight and provides improved reaction of longitudinal and side loads, yet still efficiently reacts vertical and racking loads imparted on the frame during operation of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2012Date of Patent: July 30, 2013Assignee: Hendrickson USA, L.L.C.Inventor: John Edward Ramsey
-
Patent number: 8485538Abstract: An auxiliary axle suspension system for a motor vehicle is disclosed wherein a pair of hydraulically operated actuators position and force the auxiliary axle to help support the vehicle. And gas springs are provided that allow the actuators to extend and retract over a wide range of hydraulic operating pressure and thereby allow the auxiliary axle to adjust to a wide range of road grade differences between the auxiliary axle wheels and the wheels of the axles that normally support the vehicle without incurring significant gas and hydraulic pressure fluctuation and while isolating shock forces on the auxiliary axle wheels from the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2012Date of Patent: July 16, 2013Inventors: Brooks Strong, Joshua Cayne Fisher
-
Patent number: 8469383Abstract: A wheelchair includes a frame, and a front pivot arm pivotally mounted to the frame at a front pivot point, the front pivot arm having a caster for supporting the frame. A rear pivot arm is pivotally mounted to the frame at a rear pivot point, the rear pivot arm having a caster for supporting the frame. A ground engaging mid-wheel drive wheel is connected to the frame. A linkage connects the front and rear pivot arms to each other in a manner such that an upward or downward rotation of one of the pivot arms about its pivot point causes rotation of the other pivot arm about its pivot point in an opposite rotational direction.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 2012Date of Patent: June 25, 2013Assignee: Sunrise Medical (US) LLCInventors: Daniel Z. Zhou, Mark A. Jackson, John J. Tarter, Mark E. Greig, Rex W. Stevens, James M. Koerlin, Samuel D. Traxinger, Allen B. Killebrew
-
Patent number: 8469131Abstract: Disclosed is a wheel drive vehicle including a main body having a rotatable arm and an arm driving unit for driving the arm, a wheel rotatably mounted to the arm, respectively, and a sensing unit for sensing a non-contact state of the wheel from a ground, wherein the sensing unit includes a spring, first and second sensors, and a controller.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2010Date of Patent: June 25, 2013Assignee: Agency for Defense DevelopmentInventors: Sang Hoon Lee, Jin Wook Huh, Sin Cheon Kang, Yong Woon Park
-
Patent number: 8424888Abstract: Systems and methods for weight transfer in a vehicle are provided. One system includes a plurality of springs and a plurality of movable spring seats configured to adjust a length of the plurality of springs. Additionally, an electromechanical actuator is provide that is connected to the plurality of movable springs and configured to move the movable spring seats to adjust the length of the plurality of springs. Further, a controller is provided that is coupled to the electromechanical actuator to control the electromechanical actuator to adjust the length of the plurality of springs.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2010Date of Patent: April 23, 2013Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Munishwar Ahuja, Nikhil Subhashchandra Tambe, Amit Kalyani, Ravi Kumar
-
Patent number: 8398179Abstract: An extendible axle member (146, 148) is provided for an agricultural harvester (100), the axle (142, 144) having an elongate telescopic portion (400) with bearing surfaces (254, 256, 334, 336) for being slidably received in an outer axle member (142, 144).Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2010Date of Patent: March 19, 2013Assignee: Deere & CompanyInventors: Ryan Patrick Mackin, Daniel James Burke, Bruce Alan Coers, Eric Allan Risius, Glenn E Pope, David Rix
-
Publication number: 20130062133Abstract: A vehicle comprising a front axle with a pair of front wheels (111, 112) having a track width adjustable between a wide track and a narrow track, a drive rear axle with a rear wheel (121), steering means configured to control the turn of the rear wheel (121) when the front wheels (111, 112) are set to the narrow track and track width control means configured to change the track width of the front wheels (111, 112) and to change the wheel base between the front axle and the rear axle such that for the wide track of the front wheels (111, 112) the wheel base is longer than for the narrow track of the front wheels (111, 112).Type: ApplicationFiled: May 16, 2011Publication date: March 14, 2013Applicant: JAXA NETWORKSInventor: Rafal Budweil
-
Patent number: 8393429Abstract: A motor grader with an adjustable wheelbase. The motor grader may include front and rear wheels supporting a chassis and a main frame. A working blade may downwardly depend from the main frame between the front wheels and rear wheels to perform work on the ground below. The motor grader may also provide an adjustable wheel base to allow the center of gravity of the motor grader to better match the work load being addressed. The adjustable wheel base may also provide more swing clearance for the blade relative to the rear wheels, allow for an adjustable articulation angle, and minimize structural loads on the motor grader, particularly during ripping operation. The wheel base may be adjustable by providing structure through which the relative positions of the rear wheels can be altered automatically, manually, and dynamically.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2010Date of Patent: March 12, 2013Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventors: Norval Thomson, Steven Daniel, Daniel Sergison
-
Patent number: 8387741Abstract: A drive train arrangement for a vehicle comprising a main transmission and a transfer box which are both housed within a transmission housing. The transfer box comprises a drive output which is connected to a rear axle differential transmission and connectable, by a torque transmission element and a connecting shaft, to a front axle differential transmission. The connecting shaft is arranged at a predetermined angle relative to the drive output shaft of the main transmission. The end of the connecting shaft, facing toward the front axle differential transmission, is actively connected to the front axle differential transmission. The front axle differential transmission is fixed to the vehicle by at least one adaptor device allowing the front axle differential transmission to be adapted to a variety of arrangement positions along the rotation axis of the connection shaft.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2009Date of Patent: March 5, 2013Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AGInventors: Ulrich Mair, Thomas Rosemeier, Dietmar Gehring, Detlef Baasch, Lothar Beigang, Manfred Geier
-
Patent number: 8376077Abstract: A vehicle (10) comprising a vehicle body, a suspension system coupled to the vehicle body, and a plurality of wheels (16) coupled to the suspension system comprising at least one pair of wheels, each wheel of the at least one pair of wheels being located on opposite sides of the vehicle. The suspension system comprises a changeable wheel track width for the at least one pair of wheels and the wheel track width is changeable between a narrow wheel track width setting (12) and a wide wheel track width setting (14) by pivoting a suspension link (18) about a vertical axis.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2006Date of Patent: February 19, 2013Assignee: Oshkosh CorporationInventor: Roy Venton-Walters
-
Patent number: 8376078Abstract: An agricultural application machine (10) comprising a pair of wheels (11, 12) each having an associated wheel support structure (22) is provided. Each wheel support structure is mounted to the chassis (60) by a transversely extending support shaft (29; 49) which is slidably mounted within a bearing block (50; 80). The provision of bearing blocks allows the transverse separation of the wheels to be varied with minimal sliding friction.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2009Date of Patent: February 19, 2013Assignee: AGCO Netherlands B.V.Inventor: Joris Hiddema
-
Patent number: 8365850Abstract: There is provided a battery powered golf cart with selectable dual operative modes, walk-behind/ride-on modes, including three units: a drive/riding unit, a golf bag support unit, and a front caster wheel assembly. The three units are interconnected for cooperative association in the two operative modes by a bar linkage system, having two stable positions.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 2006Date of Patent: February 5, 2013Assignee: Golfit Ltd.Inventors: Shai Gal, Arie Becker
-
Patent number: 8353377Abstract: A windrower having an adjustable axle to vary a width of steerable caster-mounted rear wheels operably connected by right and left steering cylinders mounted to right and left reaction arms pivoted to respective rods coupled to steering arms fixed to respective spindles mounted within a cylindrical receptacle at outer ends of the adjustable axle. One embodiment each reaction arm has a bracket coupled to a fixed portion of the rear axle when telescopic end sections of the axle are in a narrow width position, and selectively mounted to outer ends of the telescopic end sections of the axle when in a wide width position. A second embodiment has the reaction arms mounted to spindle receptacles at outer ends of the axle sections to provide the reaction arms with an infinite number of angular positions about the spindle receptacles for different tread widths of the steered rear wheels.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2009Date of Patent: January 15, 2013Assignee: Deere & CompanyInventors: David W. Geiger, Stephen K. Parsons, Shirishkumar Jalindernath Chobhe
-
Patent number: 8348001Abstract: An agricultural harvesting machine, in particular a self-propelled forage harvester, has a body which includes frame parts and parts of the outer shell, a chassis having at least two drive axles which form the ground drive, and various working units and drive units, and the harvesting machine is separatable into at least one front module and one rear module which are displaceable relative to one another.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2009Date of Patent: January 8, 2013Assignee: CLAAS Selbstfahrende Erntemaschinen GmbHInventor: Heinrich Isfort
-
Patent number: 8328236Abstract: A floor conveyor, with a frame on which a drive unit and a load unit are attached, the load unit having a load carrying means adjustable in its height, further with two parallel wheel arms which are adapted to be mounted on the outer sides of the frame, each wheel arm mounting one load wheel, and with means for reducing the distance of the wheel arms from each other, wherein a frame portion or a frame plate is fixedly connected to the frame on each outer side thereof, said frame portion or frame plate having an outer bearing surface and holes which result in a first hole pattern, wherein a wheel arm plate is connected to the wheel arms, which has first through bores resulting in a second hole pattern, and an inner bearing surface.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2009Date of Patent: December 11, 2012Assignee: Jungheinrich AGInventors: Rainer Faehndrich, Lars Hildebrand, Matthias Roder
-
Publication number: 20120285761Abstract: Disclosed is a wheel drive vehicle including a main body having a rotatable arm and an arm driving unit for driving the arm, a wheel rotatably mounted to the arm, respectively, and a sensing unit for sensing a non-contact state of the wheel from a ground, wherein the sensing unit includes a spring, first and second sensors, and a controller.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 28, 2010Publication date: November 15, 2012Applicant: AGENCY FOR DEFENSE DEVELOPMENTInventors: Sang Hoon Lee, Jin Wook Huh, Sin Cheon Kang, Yong Woon Park
-
Patent number: 8297634Abstract: An agricultural vehicle comprises separate wheel suspension assemblies corresponding to each wheel of the vehicle. Each wheel suspension assembly includes a strut assembly wherein the strut assembly is connected to the chassis at a pivot and to a respective wheel, and a dual action hydraulic cylinder that is connected to both the strut assembly at a point distal from the pivot and the chassis of the vehicle. Motion of the strut assembly around the pivot is affected by action of the hydraulic cylinder. In some embodiments, the dual action hydraulic cylinders are in fluid communication with the diagonally opposite hydraulic cylinder such that when one cylinder moves into an extended or retracted position the other diagonally opposite cylinder is urged into the same position. In some embodiments, the wheel suspension assemblies are attached to slidable drawer assemblies on each side of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2009Date of Patent: October 30, 2012Assignee: Miller-St. Nazianz, Inc.Inventor: Roy Bittner
-
Patent number: 8297876Abstract: A road building machine for road surface paving is provided.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2011Date of Patent: October 30, 2012Assignee: Bomag GmbHInventor: Jens Wagner
-
Patent number: 8281883Abstract: A method and apparatus for permitting construction equipment, and particularly backhoe loaders, to be transported in the hold of a seagoing vessel within the interior of an enclosed cargo container includes front and rear rollers that temporarily replace the wheels of the equipment and allow it to be driven into and out of the container without any disassembly of the equipment.Type: GrantFiled: November 11, 2008Date of Patent: October 9, 2012Inventors: Adalberto Prinz, Hugo M. Ledezma, Alejandro A. Prinz
-
Patent number: 8272654Abstract: A locking pin mechanism for a transport semi-trailer, the locking pin mechanism is used for locking longitudinally extending members of a frame of a transport semi-trailer together with a trailer body movably arranged on the longitudinally extending members. The locking pin mechanism comprises at least two bolt assemblies and a linkage assembly for driving the at least two bolt assemblies. The bolt assembly comprises a bolt, an inner spring, a sliding sleeve, an outer spring and a bracket. The sliding sleeve at an end away from its sliding sleeve end-plate is connected with the linkage assembly; the linkage assembly can be pulled such that the sliding sleeve of the bolt assembly is compresses the inner and outer springs to force the bolt to be pulled out from a locating hole under an action of an elastic force of the inner spring; and after the linkage assembly is released, the bolt can be inserted into the locating hole under the action of the elastic force of the outer spring.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2010Date of Patent: September 25, 2012Assignee: CIMC Vehicles Group Co., Ltd.Inventor: Liangfu Xie
-
Patent number: 8240409Abstract: A self-propelled high-clearance vehicle includes a front half-chassis and a rear half-chassis placed one behind the other and assembled together by a pivot connection, the front and rear half-chassis respectively including firstly a front wheel set and a rear wheel set disposed in line one behind the other along the longitudinal axis of the vehicle, and secondly a first stabilizer wheel set on the left and a second stabilizer wheel set on the right located on either side of the longitudinal axis of the high-clearance vehicle; a driver's cab mounted on one and/or the other of the half-chassis; and an engine unit for driving the vehicle, mounted on one and/or the other of the half-chassis.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 2010Date of Patent: August 14, 2012Assignee: SARL Grosjean Rene ViticoleInventor: Rene Grosjean
-
Patent number: 8215436Abstract: A system and related method for a regenerative braking system on a towed vehicle, such as a trailer or semi-trailer. The system provides power and braking to the respective trailer wheels, as needed, to help stabilize the trailer. Power is regenerated during braking. While batteries may be used to store the energy, the system also may use capacitive storage units, which charge and discharge large amounts of energy at a fast rate. A multiple-axis sensor system in conjunction with wheel sensors, load sensors, and proportional control of the brakes and motor power to the axles and wheels, is used to achieve superior load stabilization. The invention can be easily retrofit into new or used trailers, and is self-contained with low maintenance.Type: GrantFiled: January 3, 2008Date of Patent: July 10, 2012Inventors: Ken DeGrave, William McMillan
-
Patent number: 8205892Abstract: A method for changing the track of a vehicle (100) having first and second wheels (108, 110) disposed on opposing sides of the vehicle (100) along a line generally perpendicular to the direction of travel of the vehicle, the first and second wheels (108, 110 are supported on first and second wheel supports (114, 116, 204) to permit the track of the first and second wheels (108, 110) to be adjusted, at least one actuator (218, 220) is coupled to at least one wheel of the first and second wheels (108, 110) and is configured to change the toe angle of said first and second wheels (108, 110), and an electronic control unit (402) is coupled to the actuator (218, 220) that is configured to command the actuator (218, 220) to change the toe angle, the method comprising the steps of changing the toe angle of the first and second wheels (108, 110); rolling the vehicle (100) on the first and second wheels (108, 110) over the ground to generate opposing lateral forces on the first and second wheels (108, 110); and applyiType: GrantFiled: July 30, 2010Date of Patent: June 26, 2012Assignee: Deere & CompanyInventors: Ryan P. Mackin, Daniel J Burke, Bruce A. Coers, Glenn E Pope, James K Adamson
-
Patent number: 8205899Abstract: An extendible axle member (146 or 148) is provided for a pivoting axle of an agricultural harvester (100), the extendible axle member (146 or 148) having an elongate telescopic portion (400) with bearing surfaces for being slidably received in an outer axle member (142 or 144), wherein the elongate telescopic portion (400) is formed integral with and abuts a C-frame for supporting a steering knuckle (158 or 160).Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2010Date of Patent: June 26, 2012Assignee: Deere & CompanyInventors: Ryan Patrick Mackin, Daniel James Burke, Bruce Alan Coers, Eric Allen Risius
-
Patent number: 8186747Abstract: The present invention provides an integrated composite floor unit and front wall assembly that can be used in a variety of structures. The integrated composite floor unit and front wall assembly is formed of a floor unit having a front portion and a front wall integrally formed with and rising up from the front portion of the floor unit. The assembly can include other structural features and may be easily combined with a number of further structural components to form a structure. In specific embodiments, the assembly forms part of a modular trailer. In particular, the trailer can be formed of the composite assembly, a composite roof, composite side walls, and a composite rear frame. Such composite trailers advantageously provide a storage volume approximately equal to or greater than conventional trailers but are lighter in weight, thus allowing for storage and/or hauling of a greater weight of cargo than in conventional trailers.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2008Date of Patent: May 29, 2012Assignee: Martin Marietta Materials, Inc.Inventors: Jeff Bloodworth, Lincoln Grant Godwin, Paul Willard Peterson, Jr., Joseph Anthony Seiter
-
Patent number: 8177011Abstract: A forecab and additional electrical and mechanical components attachable to a motorcycle for converting a motorcycle between its standard configuration and a three-wheeled vehicle is disclosed. The forecab has two front wheels, chassis, a body, a motorcycle front wheel cradle, headlights and parking lights, and standard automobile-type components such as a steering wheel, foot brake, clutch, and foot-manipulated gas pedal. The forecab components are connected to corresponding motorcycle components using both electrical connections, and mechanical linkages as appropriate. The invention adds components to the motorcycle so that the linkages between the forecab and the motorcycle component may be implemented. The mechanical linkages, electrical connections and motorcycle-securing mechanisms are designed to they can be easily connected and disconnected in a manner so that the biker can easily transition between the three-wheeled motorcycle-powered vehicle and the standard motorcycle without tools.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2010Date of Patent: May 15, 2012Inventor: Len Edward Fletcher
-
Patent number: 8177010Abstract: An apparatus and method for effecting wheelbase adjustment for utility vehicles having one or more axles with wheels, includes one or more adjustment mechanisms to which compressed air can be applied. The adjustment mechanism(s) adjust at least one of the axles in relation to the body of the vehicle. A pressure sensor measures the pressure of the compressed air in the adjustment mechanism(s) and generates corresponding pressure signals. A pulse-controlled valve or, alternatively, a spring-return valve, is employed to optionally feed the compressed air into the adjustment mechanism(s) and discharge the compressed air from the adjustment mechanism(s).Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2009Date of Patent: May 15, 2012Assignee: WABCO GmbHInventors: Andelko Glavinic, Tobias Lange, Udo Ronnenberg, Michael Schoppe, Axel Stender
-
Patent number: 8172014Abstract: A vehicle steering means with a first front ground-engaging steerable wheel located in the front center of the vehicle; second and third front ground-engaging wheels located either side of the first front ground-engaging wheel with means for adjusting the steer angle and the height depending on the steer angle of the first front ground-engaging wheel. When the first front ground-engaging wheel has a straight-ahead steer angle, the second and third wheels are also straight-ahead and all three front ground-engaging wheels are in contact with the ground; and when the steer angle of the first front ground-engaging wheel is turned, the steer angle of the front ground-engaging wheel on the outside of said curve is turned at least partly towards the steer angle of the first front ground-engaging wheel, the steer angle of the front ground-engaging wheel on the inside of said curve is not substantially turned towards the steer angle of the first front ground-engaging wheel.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 2007Date of Patent: May 8, 2012Assignee: Advanced Vehicle Concepts LimitedInventors: Fredrick Charles Brown, Graham Reginald Nicholls
-
Patent number: 8128107Abstract: In conventional vehicle cranes it is usually necessary in consideration of current safety regulations to provide at least two separate steering circuits for all steered axles so that, in the event of a failure of one circuit, the vehicle crane can continue to be steered by way of the other. In order to avoid that in accordance with the invention at least one steered rear axle of a vehicle crane (1) is provided with a caster (a) so that at least one axle (11-16), in the event of a steering failure, remains steerable passively by utilizing the caster friction. That principle is applied in a similar manner to a module axle (2) which can be mounted to the vehicle crane (1) and which can be required for transporting additional equipment or an additional counterweight which is possibly required.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2010Date of Patent: March 6, 2012Assignee: Terex-Demag GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Klaus Koenigstein, Muller Laurent, Christian Fuhrmeister
-
Patent number: 8113531Abstract: A personal mobility vehicle includes an base unit having a frame and front and rear pivot arms pivotally mounted at respective front and rear pivot points. The front and rear pivot arms support casters. A drive unit having a ground engaging mid-wheel drive wheel is connected to the frame. A linkage connects the front and rear pivot arms to each other in a manner such that an upward or downward rotation of one of the pivot arms about its pivot point causes rotation of the other pivot arm about its pivot point in an opposite rotational direction. The base unit may also include a drive unit that is pivotally supported on the base unit by a torque arm and a suspension system that includes a suspension stop. The torque arm selectively disengages the suspension stop to allow movement of the front caster wheel in response to the terrain traversed.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2008Date of Patent: February 14, 2012Assignee: Sunrise Medical HHG, Inc.Inventors: Daniel Z. Zhou, Mark A. Jackson, John J. Tarter, Mark E. Greig, Rex W. Stevens, James M. Koerlin, Samuel D. Traxinger, Allen B. Killebrew
-
Patent number: 8112178Abstract: A robotic platform for autonomous automotive vehicle development. The platform includes a frame having a plurality of wheels rotatably mounted to the frame. A motor mechanism is associated with at least one of the wheels and the motor mechanism is responsive to drive signals to rotatably drive its associated wheel. At least one sensor is mounted to the vehicle which provides an output signal representative of a parameter relevant to the position of the robotic platform. A programmable control circuit is programmed to generate drive signals in response to the sensor output(s) to simulate the operation of an automotive vehicle for vehicle development.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 2008Date of Patent: February 7, 2012Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.Inventor: Francis Xavier Librojo Garing
-
Patent number: 8109525Abstract: A guiding wheel assembly, mainly for a hospital bed, including a wheel (1) with a horizontal rotation axis (6) installed on an arm (7) that is fixed to the frame (5) with the use of an axis (4) allowing swinging in the vertical plane. The wheel (1) is firmly fixed in the straight direction. The arm (7) is provided with a track (3), against which a pressing element (8) leans. The pressing element (8) is fixed with a pin (9) to the frame (5) in a swinging way.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 2007Date of Patent: February 7, 2012Assignee: Linet Spol. S R.O.Inventor: Michal Salus
-
Patent number: RE43943Abstract: A variable wheel base vehicle includes a vehicle body having front end rear ends supporting body members one of which is capable of displacement relative to the other. Drive motors mounted to the vehicle body are linked to the body members. A carriage assembly including drive wheels provide support for the vehicle body. An extension assembly responsive to the drive motor is connected to at least one of the body members. Upon actuation of the drive motor, the extension assembly enables one body member to displace relative to the other body member to enable extension and retraction of the vehicle wheel base. Each body member includes at least one wheel of the carriage assembly and, as a result of displacement of one body member relative to the other body member, the displaced body member provides increased counterbalance in the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 1995Date of Patent: January 29, 2013Assignee: Extendquip, LLCInventor: William Andrews