With Means For Changing Number Of Supporting Wheels, Or For Adjusting Relative Location Thereof Patents (Class 180/209)
  • Patent number: 7823673
    Abstract: A variable wheel positioning vehicle has a wheel position changing mechanism and a wheel position control device to change a wheel position of a wheel with respect to a center of gravity of a vehicle body. The wheel position changing mechanism is arranged to move a suspension device along a movement path with respect to the vehicle body and to hold the suspension device at any position along the movement path. The wheel position control device issues a movement command to the wheel position changing mechanism that changes a wheel positioning distance between a center rotation axis of one of the wheels and the center of gravity of the vehicle body as measured in a direction parallel to an acceleration direction of the center of gravity of the vehicle body based on a traveling condition the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Katsunori Asogawa
  • Publication number: 20100274445
    Abstract: The herein described apparatus and method for active stabilization of two wheeled single track vehicle utilizes lateral stabilizers to actively hold a two wheeled single track vehicle upright when stationary and at an angle coincident with the resultant angle of gravitational and lateral forces acting on the vehicle when at slow speed. The stabilizers automatically retract when the vehicle exceeds a predetermined speed and automatically deploy when the vehicle drops below a predetermined speed. Stabilizers are automatically deployed at an angle that causes both left and right stabilizers to contact the ground at essentially the same time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2009
    Publication date: October 28, 2010
    Inventor: Robin Haynes
  • Patent number: 7819216
    Abstract: A motorcycle conversion assembly comprises a pair of sub-frame structures to be connected to a motorcycle frame in at least three points and substantially traversing the length of the motorcycle. The conversion assembly can be disconnected by the cycle owner while maintaining the structural integrity of the motorcycle and the rear drivewheel. A pair of trailing arm structures are rotatably affixed to each of the sub-frames with bushings and extend aft of the drivewheel and each contain an additional pair of wheel hub assemblies, essentially equal in size to standard cycle tires. Lower shock absorber mounts are disposed on the trailing arms adjacent to the wheel hub assemblies to accommodate a total of four shock absorbers where the upper shock absorber mounts are affixed to the sub-frame of the conversion assembly and subsequently the motorcycle frame. Stabilizer rods laterally secure the trailing arm assemblies to the motorcycle frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Inventor: Danny D. Johnson
  • Patent number: 7779949
    Abstract: A rear axle/suspension module (18) is associated with a chassis frame (10) in a way that facilitates installation and removal to provide more efficient assembly plant operations with fewer parts and less floor space. Also provided is a method of re-equipping a truck that has one particular model of drive axle and suspension module with a different model.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: Navistar Canada, Inc.
    Inventors: Leo P. Oriet, Jules Cazabon, Nouri Matar
  • Patent number: 7775308
    Abstract: A payload-carrying motor vehicle comprises a frame, a steer axle, tandem drive axles, at least one pusher axle located between the steer axle and drive axles, and a tag axle. A steer axle suspension system suspends the steer axle from the frame, a drive axle suspension system suspends the drive axles from the frame, a pusher axle suspension system including gas springs suspends the pusher axle from the frame, and a tag axle suspension system including a primary tag axle suspension and a secondary tag axle suspension suspends the tag axle from the frame behind the drive axles. The primary tag axle suspension suspends the tag axle for pivotal movement about an axis parallel to the other axles and includes actuators incorporating a gas spring forcing the tag axle tires against a road surface to aid in supporting the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Inventor: Brooks Strong
  • Patent number: 7770906
    Abstract: 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 utilising 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: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: Terex-Demag GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Klaus Koenigstein, Muller Laurent, Christian Fuhrmeister
  • Publication number: 20100193274
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2010
    Publication date: August 5, 2010
    Inventor: Len Edward Fletcher
  • Publication number: 20100147614
    Abstract: A trailer-locking pin locating device comprising an elongated body having a first end, a second end, a crossbar located proximal the first end of the elongated body with the crossbar slidably supported by elongated body and positioned at an angle to the elongated body, a securing member connecting the elongated body to a portion of a semi-trailer, a signaling member comprising a rod having a first highly visible end and a second end, a resiliently flexible member connecting the second end of the rod to the elongated body with the highly visible end of the rod extending beyond the second end of the elongated body in a normal condition, a rod holder for supporting the signaling member in a loaded condition, and a trigger mechanism located on the elongated body with trigger mechanism displacing the signaling member from the loaded condition to the normal condition when triggered.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2009
    Publication date: June 17, 2010
    Inventor: Duane Joseph Beimert
  • Patent number: 7731210
    Abstract: A vehicle having a chassis, front wheels each having an axis of rotation, and a suspension assembly for connecting the front wheels to the chassis. The suspension assembly is adapted to allow the front wheels to move transverse to their axes of rotation, but in opposite directions, in order to tilt the chassis. The suspension assembly includes a wheel orientation defining rod coupled to at least one of the front wheels, and a unit for pivotably coupling the wheel orientation defining rod to the chassis. The coupling unit ensures that a wheel orientation of the front wheel defined by the wheel orientation defining rod is essentially independent of movement of the front wheel transverse to the axis of rotation thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Inventor: Roald H. Pedersen
  • Patent number: 7731208
    Abstract: A tag axle operating system comprises a gas circuit with gas at a prescribed pressure and a hydraulic circuit that delivers hydraulic fluid pressure to raise and establish the tag axle in an inactive condition and to lower and establish the tag axle in an active condition. The hydraulic circuit establishes a prescribed hydraulic pressure opposing the gas pressure and a resulting force forcing the tag axle tires to bear against a road surface and the tag axle to accept a predetermined load. A brake valve allows air pressure delivery to operate tag axle air brakes while the prescribed hydraulic pressure is maintained and prevents such delivery to disable the brakes when the prescribed hydraulic pressure is relieved. And the hydraulic circuit operates to relieve the prescribed hydraulic pressure to relieve the force on the tag axle and disable the brakes when the tag axle experiences a predetermined tilt angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Inventor: Brooks Strong
  • Patent number: 7721836
    Abstract: A four-wheeled vehicle with a motorcycle body that allows the motorcycle body to be fixedly attached to metallic frame that includes a quartet of tires. The vehicle includes a metallic frame that has four “off-road” type tires attached to it. The vehicle also includes a motorcycle body which is essentially a motorcycle with the two tires stripped off of the body. The motorcycle body can be fixedly attached to the frame of the vehicle and can be connected to the drive train of the vehicle, allowing the engine on the motorcycle body to manipulate the drive train of the vehicle into turning the rear axle of the vehicle, thereby propelling the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Inventor: Seth A. Hodgen
  • Patent number: 7717210
    Abstract: A vehicle for transporting a person has a chassis (103) and four wheels (105a, 105b, 150c, 105d) supporting the chassis above a ground surface. The wheels enable the vehicle to move along the ground surface. Each of the four wheels is adjustable in position to enable the wheelbase length and track width of the vehicle to be changed. Each of the wheels is steerable to enable the changes in the wheelbase length and the track width to be effected whether the vehicle is substantially stationary or in motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Inventors: Graham John Mahy, Gordon James Tobin, Benjamin Mark Glossop
  • Patent number: 7712556
    Abstract: An omni direction vehicle with a frame having a round surface about its perimeter with no apparatus mounted on the frame extending beyond the perimeter. Two independent drive wheels located on an axis through the center of the frame are mounted at the same distance from a central vertical axis through the frame. Each wheel is powered independently of the other and can rotate at variable speeds in either direction. The vehicle is capable of movement in any direction by rotating the axis of the drive wheels to a position which is perpendicular to the desired direction of travel. The vehicle can spin about its vertical axis such that the axis of the drive wheels can be oriented at any direction without changing the original footprint of the space that the frame occupies over the ground. Thus, the vehicle requires a zero turning radius and requires only the space it occupies to change its forward orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: Hammonds Technical Services, inc.
    Inventor: Carl L. Hammonds
  • Patent number: 7699347
    Abstract: A system for absorbing impact energy includes a container formed with a plurality of faces. An energy absorbing material is substantially contained within the container. A first elongated member has a proximate end and a distal end. The proximate end is proximate and approximately perpendicular to a first face of the container. A long axis of the first elongated member intersects the first face. A first bumper is connected to the distal end of the first elongated member. A second elongated member has a proximate end and a distal end. The proximate end is proximate and approximately perpendicular to a second face of the container. A long axis of the second elongated member intersects the second face. The second elongated member is approximately perpendicular to the first elongated member. A second bumper connected to the distal end of the second elongated member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Inventor: Stephen D. Shoap
  • Patent number: 7695018
    Abstract: A system for absorbing impact energy includes a container formed with a plurality of faces. An energy absorbing material is substantially contained within the container. A first elongated member has a proximate end and a distal end. The proximate end is proximate and approximately perpendicular to a first face of the container. A long axis of the first elongated member intersects the first face. A first bumper is connected to the distal end of the first elongated member. A second elongated member has a proximate end and a distal end. The proximate end is proximate and approximately perpendicular to a second face of the container. A long axis of the second elongated member intersects the second face. The second elongated member is approximately perpendicular to the first elongated member. A second bumper connected to the distal end of the second elongated member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Inventor: Stephen D. Shoap
  • Publication number: 20100084209
    Abstract: A suspension for a vehicle is provided. The suspension includes, for example, a frame, at least one drive assembly and at least one caster pivot arm. The at least one drive assembly and the at least one caster pivot arm are coupled to enhance the vehicle's ability to traverse obstacles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2008
    Publication date: April 8, 2010
    Applicant: INVACARE CORPORATION
    Inventors: Robert Bekoscke, Damon Jurkiewicz
  • Patent number: 7677339
    Abstract: An arrangement for a suspension for a load carrying vehicle is provided. The suspension is provided with air springs and comprises at least one front axle and at least two rear axles, and each rear axle is provided with at least one pair of corresponding suspension air springs and at least one air spring is provided for lifting one of the rear axles. The suspension air springs for at least the rearmost axle is connected to the air spring for lifting one of the rear axles by a conduit for compressed air, which conduit is provided with a controllable valve, whereby the controllable valve is arranged to open during a vehicle loading process. A vehicle provided with the arrangement, and a method for carrying out a loading operation using the arrangement, are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Assignee: Volvo Lastvagnar AB
    Inventor: Christian Oscarsson
  • Publication number: 20100059302
    Abstract: A motorcycle conversion assembly for a motorcycle comprising first and second side members and first and second cross members to thereby define a rigid frame. The motorcycle conversion assembly further comprises first and second frame plates operably coupled to the frame and first and second axle plates operably coupled and rotatably adjustable relative to the first and second frame plates. The motorcycle conversion assembly further comprises first and second torsion adjustment assemblies, which are used to adjust the torsion acting on wheel assemblies when the motorcycle conversion assembly is operably connected to a motorcycle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2009
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: Paul Barns
  • Patent number: 7665745
    Abstract: A device for the connection of a wheel axle housing with a chassis of a vehicle, comprising a stabilizer with a torsion element that is mounted in the chassis, to first arms, the rigidly attached to corresponding end portions of torsion element, to second arms, that are articulatedly connected with the first arms, and at least two spring/suspension elements with a first member, that is connected with the wheel axle housing, and a second member that is connected with the chassis. According to the invention, torsion element is mounted in the chassis, in the second arms is connected with the wheel axle housing and extend essentially vertically upwardly therefrom. The spring/suspension elements have third arms that are rigidly attached with the corresponding end portions of torsion element, and with the first member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: Kongsberg Automotive AS
    Inventor: Sven Bjørkgård
  • Patent number: 7648156
    Abstract: A dual mode wheelchair (300) providing both a maneuverable indoor mode and a travel mode. The wheelchair (300) comprises fore wheels (104) mounted on a fore axis (105) and rear wheels (102) mounted on a rear axis (103). A distance between the fore axis (105) and the rear axis (103) defines a wheelbase of the wheelchair (300). The wheelbase is alterable between a short wheelbase providing a maneuverable mode of the wheelchair (300) and a long wheelbase providing a travel mode of the wheelchair (300). The wheelchair (300) further provides a lowered center of gravity and a reclining position in the travel mode to provide improved stability and occupant security.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Assignee: Johanson Nominees Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Colin Johanson
  • Patent number: 7641217
    Abstract: A detachable mobile seat includes a first part connected to a motor; a second part attached to the seat; and two links, each connected to the first part, the second part, and a wheel. The links transfer movement of the first part to the wheels. The first part includes a shaft connected to the motor, and two nuts disposed around the shaft that have screw threads in opposite directions and move along the shaft in response to operation of the motor. Each link includes a first link connected to the second part and to the nut, and a second link connected to the nut and to the wheel. The end of each second link that is nearest the wheel is rotatably connected to a connecting arm that has a rotating bar that rotates the wheel in response to operation of the links.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventors: Yeon Sang Yoo, Ju Young Lee
  • Publication number: 20090314568
    Abstract: A vehicle comprising: steering means for operation by a user, —one or more rear ground-engaging wheels; a first front ground-engaging steerable wheel (34) located substantially in the centre at substantially the front of the vehicle; second and third front ground-engaging wheels (36, 37) located either side of the first front ground-engaging wheel (34) with adjustment means for adjusting the steer angle and the height depending on the steer angle of the first front ground-engaging wheel, the adjustment means being configured such that: when the first front ground-engaging wheel (34) has a straight-ahead steer angle, the steer angles of the second and third front ground-engaging wheels (36, 37) 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 (34) is turned such that motion of the vehicle would describe a curve, the steer angle of the front ground-engaging wheel on the outside of said curve is tu
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2007
    Publication date: December 24, 2009
    Inventors: Fredrick Charles Brown, Graham Reginald Nicholls
  • Patent number: 7591336
    Abstract: A disengagement assembly for maintaining a disengaging force on a tandem assembly. The disengagement assembly operates with an actuating arm of a retractable pin assembly of a tandem wherein the actuating arm reciprocates between an engaged position and a disengaged position. The disengagement assembly maintains an applied force on the actuating arm in the disengaged position so that the tandem remains in a movable relationship with respect to frame members of a trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2009
    Inventor: Paul Hackmann
  • Patent number: 7581610
    Abstract: A three-wheel vehicle includes a single rear drive wheel, which is mounted on a suspension subframe located near the rear of the vehicle and extending between rails of the vehicle's chassis. A transfer is also mounted on the suspension subframe and drivingly interconnects the vehicle drivetrain and the rear wheel. A four-wheel to three-wheel vehicle conversion method includes the steps of removing the differential, rear axles and rear wheels of an original drivetrain and replacing them with a subframe mounting a rear wheel and a transfer. The transfer is connected to the original transmission by a drive shaft. The converted vehicle can be certified and licensed based on less stringent governmental regulations than those applicable to comparable four-wheel vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Inventor: Michael S. Ward
  • Patent number: 7549667
    Abstract: A trailer having retractable wheels. A lock-out mechanism is provided that prevents the trailer from being connected to a vehicle when the wheels are in the retracted position. The lock-out mechanism may also be configured to prevent movement of the wheels to the retracted position when the trailer is connected to a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Assignee: Bil-Jax, Inc.
    Inventors: John Joseph Busuttil, Steven Citron
  • Patent number: 7549660
    Abstract: A frame or subframe for a tractor-trailer for supporting one or more axle/suspension systems includes a pair of spaced-apart, parallel, elongated, and longitudinally extending main members. At least one cross member structure extends between and is connected to the longitudinal main members using structural nodes. A bonding adhesive, or other suitable means of attachment, connects the cross member structure and the structural nodes to one another and to the main members. The structural nodes distribute loads encountered during vehicle operation generally over a relatively large area thereby generally reducing the concentration of such loadings at the connections, and assist in generally evenly distributing loads between the cross member structure and the main members to effectively react lateral, longitudinal, vertical, and racking loads. The combination of greater load distribution and reduced loading concentrations allows the structure to be constructed from lighter weight materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Assignee: Hendrickson USA, L.L.C.
    Inventors: John Edward Ramsey, Michael D. Oyster
  • Patent number: 7543671
    Abstract: A vehicle with a variable-length wheelbase is disclosed. The vehicle of one embodiment has a first body portion coupled to a first set of wheels and a second body portion coupled to a second set of wheels to define a vehicle wheelbase. The first and second body portions are moveable relative to each other in a direction substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the vehicle, so as to move the base between extended and retracted positions. When the base is in the retracted position the vehicle's wheelbase has a first length, and when the base is in the extended position the wheelbase has a second length greater than the first length. A boom is pivotally coupled to the base. The boom moves toward a lowered position when the base is moved toward the extended position, and the boom moves toward a raised position when the base is moved toward the retracted position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Assignee: Genie Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: James A. Donaldson
  • Patent number: 7527118
    Abstract: A moveable axle assembly that can be moved into an operative position and retracted from an operative position and is constructed and arranged to be pivotally coupled to a motorized device, such as a skid steer loader. The axle assembly has a pair of wheels, an axle stabilizing assembly to securely support and stabilize the axle assembly and hydraulic actuator assemblies to move the moveable axle assembly in to and out of and operative position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Inventor: Mark J. Bushinski
  • Patent number: 7527117
    Abstract: A vehicle with an actively adjustable axle system suitable for traveling over even or uneven terrain with a load is herein proposed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Assignee: Integrated Vision, Inc.
    Inventor: Russell W. Strong
  • Patent number: 7523995
    Abstract: Work machines such as road mills having a frame supported by tracked or wheeled ground engaging support units may require the ability to move one or more of the ground engaging units between projecting and retracted positions relative to the frame without reversing the running direction of the repositioned unit. A disclosed work machine has a machine frame supportable by a plurality of ground engaging units. A support device connected between the machine frame and at least one of the ground engaging units has a lifting column adapted to controllably raise and lower the ground engaging unit relative to the frame. A first actuator is connected to the support device to move the one ground engaging unit between the projecting and retracted positions, and a second actuator is connected to the lifting column to maintain the running direction of the associated ground engaging unit in each of the projecting and retracted positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2009
    Assignee: Caterpillar Paving Products Inc.
    Inventors: Federico B. Rio, Dean R. Potts, Gregory H. Dubay, Dario Sansone
  • Publication number: 20090071739
    Abstract: Multiple embodiments are disclosed which display modularity for accomplishing multiple modes of operation for a utility vehicle. The utility vehicle (100) may include a rear cargo platform (450), a plurality of connection points (460) disposed in matrix and adapted to couple an item to the rear cargo platform, and three or more couplings (490) for adding a subsection (470) in a non-pivotable manner or pivotably coupling the rear cargo platform. The vehicle may be a four-wheeled vehicle that coverts to a six-wheeled vehicle by the addition of the subsection. The utility vehicle may include a subsection cargo platform which may be coupled to the rear cargo platform and may pivot rearward. The utility vehicle may include couplings for adding a second subsection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2008
    Publication date: March 19, 2009
    Inventors: Joshua J. Leonard, Richard Raymond Maki, Eric Bjerketvedt, Michael D. Schneider, Bradley Robert Morisch, Brian D. Krosschell, Lionel Hoff, James Bergman, Doug Moman, Mitchell D. Johnson, Larry Holter, Richard Nelson
  • Patent number: 7503414
    Abstract: A movable subframe for a tractor-trailer includes a pair of elongated spaced-apart main members extending longitudinally relative to the tractor-trailer, at least one cross member extending between and being attached to the main members, and a retractable pin mechanism for selectively securing the position of the subframe relative to a body of the tractor-trailer. At least one of the main members includes at least one opening for receiving a pin of the retractable pin mechanism. The main member opening is formed in a shape, such as a D-shape, which reduces or minimizes distortion of the main member adjacent the top of the opening that is associated with forming of the main member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2009
    Assignee: Hendrickson USA, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Phillippi R. Pierce, Kimm L. Carr, Greg Copeland
  • Patent number: 7497293
    Abstract: An interlock for a slider incorporates a cover that moves between a covered position and an uncovered position. In the covered position, the cover prevents access and movement of a handle for actuating locking pins on the slider. The cover may be pivoted to an uncovered position at which the handle can be actuated. Generally, the handle is pulled away from a trailer frame for the slider to move the locking pins out of holes in the trailer frame. When the cover has moved away from the covered position, the cover actuates a valve member that sets at least one park brake. To release the park brakes, the cover must be moved back to the covered position. The cover cannot be moved back to the covered position until the handle is in a position indicative of the locking pins being fully received in the holes in the trailer frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Assignee: ArvinMeritor Technology, LLC
    Inventors: Steven George Saieg, Rodney P. Ehrlich
  • Patent number: 7489993
    Abstract: A vehicle fleet management information system identifies location and direction of movement of each vehicle in a fleet in real-time, and automatically reports such information, as well as status of predetermined events in which the vehicle is engaged, directly to the fleet manager. One aspect relates to automated reporting of status of a ready mix slurry material truck having a mixer drum. A sensor detects the begin pour event by detecting the mixer drum being run in a discharge direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignee: Trimble Navigation Limited
    Inventors: John R. Coffee, David A. Dye, Robert W. Lewis, Kevin M. Marvin
  • Publication number: 20090020351
    Abstract: An articulated vehicle suspension system shoulder joint is disclosed. A vehicle includes a plurality of wheel assemblies; a plurality of rotating shoulder joints, each wheel assembly being mounted to a respective one of the shoulder joints and rotatable in a plane by the respective shoulder joint; and a chassis to which the shoulder joints are mounted. The shoulder joint for use in a vehicle suspension system includes a housing to which a wheel assembly may be attached for in-plane rotation; a drive; and a transmission engaged with the housing and the drive to reduce the speed of the drive motor as it drives the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2008
    Publication date: January 22, 2009
    Inventors: Wendell H. Chun, Michael S. Beck, Jon T. Stinchcomb
  • Publication number: 20090008175
    Abstract: A vehicle with a variable-length wheelbase is disclosed. The vehicle of one embodiment has a first body portion coupled to a first set of wheels and a second body portion coupled to a second set of wheels to define a vehicle wheelbase. The first and second body portions are moveable relative to each other in a direction substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the vehicle, so as to move the base between extended and retracted positions. When the base is in the retracted position the vehicle's wheelbase has a first length, and when the base is in the extended position the wheelbase has a second length greater than the first length. A boom is pivotally coupled to the base. The boom moves toward a lowered position when the base is moved toward the extended position, and the boom moves toward a raised position when the base is moved toward the retracted position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2007
    Publication date: January 8, 2009
    Applicant: Genie Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: James A. Donaldson
  • Publication number: 20080251308
    Abstract: A vehicle that is convertible in its operation between flying as an autogiro and driving as a motorcycle, in which the propeller rotates around a section of the fuselage. The propeller span can be as large as the space between the autogiro lifting rotor blade and the ground.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2006
    Publication date: October 16, 2008
    Inventors: Dezso Molnar, Craig Calfee, Zoltan Garamszegi
  • Publication number: 20080230292
    Abstract: By a self-propelled vehicle that are for example to be used for support or service works on airplanes, hereby also military airplanes, it is advantageous that a set of wheels can be lowered in at manner that makes the distance from the ground up to the bottom of the vehicle substantially larger.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2005
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: Jan Falck-Schmidt
  • Patent number: 7425004
    Abstract: The disclosure is generally directed toward vehicle support systems. In one embodiment of the invention, first and second support assemblies can be pivotally coupled to a base. A control mechanism can couple the first and second support assemblies together and be configured to control pivotal movement of the support assemblies between spread and stowed positions. In another embodiment, first and second support assemblies can be pivotally coupled to a base and to first and second wheel assemblies. First and second steering mechanisms can be coupled to the first and second wheel assemblies and the first and second support assemblies. A control system can be operatively coupled to the first and second steering mechanisms and can be configured to command selected angular positions of the first and second wheel assemblies relative to the base by compensating for the support assemblies being in various positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2008
    Assignee: Genie Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: James A. Donaldson
  • Publication number: 20080190682
    Abstract: A vehicle for transporting a person has a chassis (103) and four wheels (105a, 105b, 150c, 105d) supporting the chassis above a ground surface. The wheels enable the vehicle to move along the ground surface. Each of the four wheels is adjustable in position to enable the wheelbase length and track width of the vehicle to be changed. Each of the wheels is steerable to enable the changes in the wheelbase length and the track width to be effected whether the vehicle is substantially stationary or in motion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2006
    Publication date: August 14, 2008
    Inventors: Graham John Mahy, Gordon James Tobin, Benjamin Mark Glossop
  • Patent number: 7404467
    Abstract: A device for transferring two-wheel motorbike into three-wheel vehicle includes a rectangle frame directly connected to the frame of the two-wheel motorbike and two side frames are connected to two ends of the rectangle frame. Two wing rods ARE connected to the two side frames respectively and an arm is pivotably connected to each of the side rods. A cushion means is connected between the side frame and the arm. A differential frame is connected between the two side frames so as to be connected with a differential which has an input end connected to an output shaft of an engine, and an output end of the differential is connected to two transmitting shafts which are connected to two rear wheels. The rear wheels each have a brake mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2008
    Assignee: Shine Far Metal Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jih-Kuei Cho
  • Patent number: 7404466
    Abstract: A compact, portable locking pin locator device adapted to assist the driver of a semi truck including a tractor and a trailer to locate the trailer over the tandem axle under the back end of the trailer to achieve proper weight and balance of the load carried in the trailer over the wheels of the truck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2008
    Inventor: Arnold Wayne Diehl
  • Patent number: 7371137
    Abstract: An amphibious vehicle, which may plane on water, has at least one pair of front or rear wheels having wheel suspensions fitted with an anti-roll bar (46). Said bar rotates upwards as the wheels are stowed above the waterline for use of the vehicle on water. The wheels may be driven wheels, and may be steered by pivotable steering link (20); or passively steered. Anti-roll bar (46) may be mounted to the vehicle by at least one bearing (48), so that the bar rotates about a single axis when the wheels are retracted. The bar passes through watertight outside bodywork (60), where it may be sealed by an elastomeric seal (62). Said seal may comprise a lip portion (72), sealing against the bar itself or against a ring or a collar (68) attached thereto. The ring or collar may be continuously welded around the anti-roll bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Assignee: Gibbs Technologies, Ltd.
    Inventors: Phillip Frederick Rees, Anthony Roy Mudd
  • Publication number: 20080105481
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method for robotic control that allows an unbalanced pendulum robot to raise its Center of Mass and balance on two motorized wheels. The robot includes a pair of arms that are connected to the upper body of the robot through motorized joints. The method consists of a series of movements employing the arms of the robot to raise the robot to the upright position. The method comprises a control loop in which the motorized drives are included for dynamic balance of the robot and the control of the arm apparatus. The robot is first configured as a low Center of Mass four-wheeled vehicle, then its Center of Mass is raised using a combination of its wheels and the joint located at the attachment point of the arm apparatus and the robot body, between the rear and front wheels; the method then applies accelerations to the rear wheels to dynamically pivot and further raise the Center of Mass up and over the main drive wheels bringing the robot into a balancing pendulum configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2006
    Publication date: May 8, 2008
    Inventors: Timothy L. Hutcheson, Jerry E. Pratt
  • Publication number: 20080073138
    Abstract: A variable wheel positioning vehicle has a wheel position changing mechanism and a wheel position control device to change a wheel position of a wheel with respect to a center of gravity of a vehicle body. The wheel position changing mechanism is arranged to move a suspension device along a movement path with respect to the vehicle body and to hold the suspension device at any position along the movement path. The wheel position control device issues a movement command to the wheel position changing mechanism that changes a wheel positioning distance between a center rotation axis of one of the wheels and the center of gravity of the vehicle body as measured in a direction parallel to an acceleration direction of the center of gravity of the vehicle body based on a traveling condition the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2007
    Publication date: March 27, 2008
    Applicant: NISSAN MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Katsunori ASOGAWA
  • Patent number: 7341315
    Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for removing coverings laid on even surfaces, comprising a support frame (10) for mounting driving wheels (16) and for accommodating a motor (17) and a gear (18) for driving the driving wheels (16), and comprising a motor-driven separating knife (25). According to the invention it is provided that at least one loosely rotatable support element (21) is arranged on the support frame (11) parallel to the driving wheels (16).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2008
    Assignee: Uzin Utz AG
    Inventors: Willi Scheffe, Dieter Hammel
  • Patent number: 7322587
    Abstract: A liftable independent suspension system which may also be steerable. In a described embodiment, a liftable suspension system for use on a vehicle includes wheel spindles positioned to extend outwardly at each respective lateral side of the vehicle. The spindles are displaceable independent of each other. An actuator is operable to raise at least one of the spindles, so that a tire rotatably connected to the spindle is liftable out of engagement with a road surface when the actuator raises the spindle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2008
    Assignee: Watson & Chalin Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas N. Chalin, Cully B. Dodd, Herbert D. Hudson
  • Patent number: 7296647
    Abstract: A transport drive, in particular for stage elements, fork-lift vehicles and moving platforms (R), comprising at least one element which is driven or may be driven, integrated in a base region of the stage element (R), whereby the at least one element for raising and lowering the stage element (R) may be driven on a foundation into the stage element (R).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: Wittenstein AG
    Inventor: Manfred Wittenstein
  • Patent number: 7281723
    Abstract: A chassis suspension for agricultural equipment, the chassis suspension comprising: an axle having a substantially upright journal adapted for upright axial constraint of an inner journal therein; an inner journal extending into the upright journal, the inner journal having a lower end, wherein the inner journal is adapted to constrain axial movement of a strut rod therein; a strut rod extending into the inner journal and having a lower strut rod portion adapted for mounting a ground-engaging drive mechanism and wheel, wherein the lower strut rod portion has an upper end; and, a spring constrained between the lower end of the inner journal and the upper end of the lower strut rod portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2007
    Assignee: Miller-St. Nazianz, Inc.
    Inventor: James B. Prohaska
  • Patent number: 7273115
    Abstract: A patient support including a traction device and a motor for moving the patient support. A motor disconnect arrangement is provided to enable manually powered movement of the patient support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph A. Kummer, Ronald P. Kappeler, Michael M. Frondorf, David P. Lubbers