Abstract: The invention relates to a hydraulic system for controlling or regulating a hydraulic cylinder comprising—at least one hydraulic cylinder, at least one hydraulic unit by means of which the hydraulic cylinder can be optionally connected to a pressure source and a tank and at least one control or regulating device for controlling or regulating the supply of hydraulic fluid to the hydraulic cylinder, the control or regulating device forms a first assembly and the hydraulic unit forms a second assembly which are structurally separate from one another and fluidically connected, wherein the supply of hydraulic fluid to the hydraulic cylinder can be predominantly controlled or regulated by the control or regulating device from outside the hydraulic unit and wherein the hydraulic unit is rigidly fastened on the hydraulic cylinder.

Abstract: A circuit board fixing structure comprising a first fixing element and a first circuit board is provided. The first fixing element includes a shaft, a first flange and a second flange. One end of the shaft is provided with a receiving portion. The first flange is connected with a side surface of the shaft. The second flange is connected with the side surface of the shaft and is spaced apart from the first flange. The first circuit board is fixed on a surface of the first flange away from the second flange.

Abstract: An apparatus for pivotally fixing a non-driven wheel assembly to a vehicle frame is disclosed. The apparatus provides a trough through which non-driven wheel assembly components can be passed and protected. In one embodiment, the trough is circular in shape and is fully enclosed by the apparatus. In other embodiments, the trough has various shapes and comprises retaining members to secure and protect non-driven wheel assembly components. A suspension system interface is provided that allows the apparatus to suspend the non-driven wheel assembly. Openings used to pivotally and rigidly fix a mounting plate, suspension system, pivotal axes, and fender assemblies are also disclosed and claimed herein.

Abstract: A shock absorber includes a gas spring cylinder containing a piston moveable between an extended position and a compressed position within the gas spring cylinder. A mechanical actuator is arranged whereby a bleed port is automatically closed when the gas spring is compressed to a predetermined position corresponding to a desired sag setting. In one embodiment, the position corresponds to a predetermined sag setting whereby the gas spring is partially compressed. In another embodiment, a proper sag setting is determined through the use of a processor and sensor that in one instance measure a position of shock absorber components to dictate a proper sag setting and in another instance calculate a pressure corresponding to a preferred sag setting.

Abstract: An impact absorbing mechanism for a wheel is provided. The mechanism has discs that are engaged so that rotation of a first disc causes translational movement of a second disc. A restraining member such as a spring acts against translational movement of the second disc to absorb energy from a head on collision or aggressive braking. Once the mechanism is fully activated, teeth on the first and second discs engage to prevent kick back from the restraining member. In some embodiments, a ratchet mechanism is provided to prevent kick back from the restraining member even when the impact absorbing mechanism is not fully activated.

Abstract: Liner assemblies for axle brackets of axle coupling assemblies are disclosed. The liner assemblies include a body having an elongated base and at least one extension member having a connector. Liner assembly and axle bracket combinations and method of connecting liner assemblies to axle brackets also are disclosed, with the liner assemblies including a body having an elongated base and at least one extension member having at least one connector, with the axle brackets including a body having a central portion and including at least one connector receiver configured to receive the at least one connector of the at least one extension member of the liner assemblies.

Abstract: A chassis that supports a scanning system that images core samples from a wellbore. The chassis provides a mounting base for the scanning system for transportation of the scanning system, and also while the scanning system is in use and stationary. A suspension system mounts between the chassis and wheels that facilitate transportation of the chassis. The suspension system isolates the scanning system from shock and vibration encountered by the wheels while transporting the chassis and scanning system. In an example the chassis is a trailer, and which is pulled by a tractor. Legs can telescope downward from the chassis and against the surface on which the chassis is disposed. Airbags are strategically located within the chassis that absorb the vibration and thereby isolate the scanning system from the shock and vibration. Locations of the airbags include paths of force transmission between the wheels and the trailer.

Abstract: An axle connection, in particular for a utility vehicle, includes an axle tube receptacle which has a longitudinal axis which is oriented parallel to an axle tube arrangeable thereon, at least one connecting region, in particular for connection to a longitudinal link, and a support section, in particular for the arrangement of a tail end, wherein the axle connection has an axis of rotation which intersects the longitudinal axis, the connecting region is configured symmetrically with respect to a plane of rotation which is spanned by the axis of rotation and the longitudinal axis, and wherein the support section is offset transversely with respect to the plane of rotation at least in regions.

Abstract: A pneumatic spring for utility vehicles comprising a rolling bellows and a rolling piston. The rolling bellows has at least one bead-like plug-on edge. The rolling piston is of unipartite form and includes an interior space constantly exchanging air with an air chamber enclosed by the rolling bellows. At the plug-on edge, the rolling bellows has a sealing bead with an inelastic bead core for connection to the rolling piston. The fastening of the plug-on edge to the rolling piston, with position securing action and sealing action, is disposed on an inner side of a rolling piston edge.

Abstract: A motor vehicle, in particular a utility vehicle (UV), with a vehicle frame and/or a sub-frame (2; 2a) that has contact surfaces (10; 10a) extending transversely and/or longitudinally relative to the driving direction (F) and are connection surfaces to other structural units (6; 7; 8; 12). The structural units are connected by connecting elements (11) that pass through the contact surfaces (10; 10a). The connecting elements each define an axis (13) and are aligned such that the axes of the connecting elements extend through the contact surface (10; 10a) at an angle different from 90°.

Abstract: A passenger service vehicle includes one or more suspension mounts. Each suspension mount attaches a front axle to a chassis. In some cases, the axle is a drop beam axle. The or each suspension mount is further mounted with one or more suspension components of the following: suspension arm links, suspension air springs, suspension dampeners, anti-roll bars and Panhard rods.

Abstract: An air spring attachment system for motor vehicles. The air spring attachment system includes at least one air spring and at least one link for the suspension of a wheel on a chassis. The air spring attachment system also includes a plug-in connection connecting the air spring to the link.

Abstract: A damper unit includes first and second chambers, a first piston dividing the first chamber into first and second volumes, and a second piston dividing the second chamber into third and fourth volumes. Each piston is moveable along the respective chamber. The second chamber has a cross-sectional area that is smaller than the cross-sectional area of the first chamber so that the second chamber at least partially slides inside the first chamber and at least part of the first chamber can be located around the outside of the second chamber. The first piston is attached to the part of the second chamber that slides inside the first chamber. The position of the second piston is fixed relative to the first chamber as the second chamber slides relative to first chamber. The length of the damper unit changes as the second chamber slides relative to the first chamber.

Abstract: To expand a body weight adjustment range and achieve thinning. An initial position adjusting member 15 which can adjust initial resilient forces of two torsion bars 31, 41 is provided. Therefore, a body weight adjustment range is expanded as compared with a conventional configuration where a resilient force of only one torsion bar is adjusted.

Abstract: A suspension system for use with a vehicle comprising a control arm having an upper rear arm and a spring mounting plate integrally formed as a single member, a spindle extending outwardly from the upper rear arm, an air spring adapted to be mounted intermediate the spring plate and the vehicle, and a pivot assembly for pivotally mounting the control arm to the vehicle whereby the pivot assembly has a fist axis of rotation.

Abstract: A multistage jounce bumper, including a jounce bumper cushion integrated with a hydraulic jounce bumper, wherein provided are the damping characteristic of the hydraulic jounce bumper and the damping/spring characteristics of a jounce bumper cushion. The hydraulic jounce bumper hydraulic response is tunable via adjustment of hydraulic flow with respect to a communicating hydraulic fluid reservoir. When maximum jounce is approached, jounce force and energy are exchanged, at a first stage, with the jounce bumper cushion, then at a predetermined compression, jounce force and energy are exchanged, at a second stage, with the hydraulic jounce bumper. Thereafter, a mechanical abutment is provided as a third stage of jounce management.

Abstract: A bound stopper provided with a drainage path for draining water that has passed through drainage holes formed in a bottom portion of a bracket. The drainage path is constituted by a recessed portion formed on at least one of a plurality of corresponding portions of a fixing metal fitting and the recessed portion opens outward in a direction perpendicular to an axial direction of the fitting. The corresponding portions are positioned so as to correspond to each of the plurality of the drainage holes, upon the fitting being in contact with the bracket. A locating projection is provided on an outer surface of the corresponding portion different from the corresponding portion having the recessed portion. Insertion of a locating projection into the drainage hole corresponding to the different corresponding portion allows the fitting to be circumferentially positioned such that the corresponding portions correspond to the drainage holes.

Abstract: A vehicle suspension system includes a pair of suspension assemblies mounted on a pair of spaced vehicle frame members for supporting a vehicle body on the vehicle wheels. A torsion axle extends between the pair of suspension assemblies and terminates in a pair of stub shafts. The axle is mounted on a pair of spaced frame brackets attached to the vehicle frame. An air spring extends between the vehicle frame and an outer end of a support arm pivotally mounted on each end of the torsion axle. The stub shafts are supported within an outer tube of the torsion axle by a plurality of elastomeric members. One end of each stub shaft is connected to a spindle arm which has a spindle extending from an opposite end of the arm.

Abstract: A wheel suspension for a motor vehicle is described, in which at least a first and at least a second control arm (1, 2) are coupled in an articulated manner to a wheel carrier (4) carrying a vehicle wheel (3). The wheel suspension has a compensating device (5, 6) for correcting wheel positions, and each control arm (1, 2) has a portion of the compensating device (5, 6) or is connected to a portion of the compensating device (5, 6). The compensating device portions (5, 6) of one wheel are connected to one another by at least one coupling member (7, 8).

Abstract: An aerostatic suspension system (1) for rolling equipment and vehicles that takes advantage of atmospheric pressure to create, via cylinder and piston sets, forces that are transmitted by levers having an adjustable point of application of force and that at their distal ends are articulated with wheel support rods. The forces, acting individually on each wheel, aerostatically suspend the weight plus its load of the equipment or vehicle.

Abstract: A suspension system includes a longitudinal member, an air spring, a damper and an axle assembly. The air spring is not directly attached to the chassis but is mounted to contact a locating plate attached to the chassis. The locating plate includes a lip such that the locating plate is of a frustum configuration that laterally locates and self aligns the air spring upon pivotal movement and re-alignment of the air spring with the chassis. Preferably, the suspension system includes a protective skirt which aids in bringing the air cell into a correct position with the locating plate. In addition the axle assembly extends away from the chassis at a speed restricted by the damper such that the anti-vacuum system can equalize the pressure within the air cell.

Abstract: A vehicle suspension system having a central beam pivotally mounted to hanger brackets at one end and rigidly attached to an axle at another end along substantially the entire length of the axle. The hanger brackets being mounted to the vehicle frame. The vehicle suspension system further including an air spring positioned intermediate the central beam and the vehicle frame. The air spring is fastened with fasteners to a support plate attached to the vehicle frame. The fasteners extend into the air spring. The air spring may also be fastened with similar fasteners to the central beam. A supplemental support plate may also be provided inside of the air spring for sandwiching the air spring between the supplemental support plate and the support plate and/or the supplemental support plate and the central beam. One or more of the fasteners may be an air inlet/outlet.

Abstract: For use with a road/rail vehicle that is convertible from a road mode for traveling on a road, to a rail mode for traveling on rails, an apparatus for mounting a rail wheel to the vehicle. The apparatus comprises an air bag bearing against the rail wheel and the vehicle frame such that the vehicle frame is supported on the rail wheel by the air bag and such that the vehicle frame can move up and down with respect to the rail wheel in response to motion of the vehicle along a set of rails. A stop mechanism is attached to the vehicle frame and to the rail wheel and is operative to allow the vehicle frame to move down with respect to the rail wheel only to a stopped position where adjacent road wheels of the vehicle are above the rails. A kit allows installation on existing road/rail vehicles.

Abstract: Vibration dampening assembly alone and in vehicle trailing arm suspension has a link member, a shock absorber and a lever member. The link member has a first end pivotally interconnected with either of the trailing arm or the vehicle frame at a first support pivot. A lever member is pivotally interconnected with the link member second end at a link pivot intermediate the first and second ends of the lever member. A shock absorber has a first end of pivotally interconnected with the lever member second end at a shock pivot and has a second end pivotally interconnected with the other of the trailing arm or the vehicle frame at a second support pivot spaced from said first support pivot. The lever member is pivotally interconnected with either the trailing arm or the vehicle frame at a main pivot connection located at the first end of the lever member.

Abstract: Devices and methods for suspending a vehicle are disclosed. A suspension mechanism in accordance with the present invention includes a suspension arm having a first end and a second end, a swing arm having a first end pivotably coupled to the first end of the suspension arm and a second end pivotably coupled to a slide frame, a pivot arm having a first end pivotably coupled to the suspension arm proximate the second end thereof, the pivot arm further including a pivot axle and a second end, the second end of the pivot arm being pivotably coupled to the slide frame, a cradle pivotably coupled to the suspension arm between the first end and the second end thereof, an air spring having a first end seating against the cradle and a second end seating against a seating portion of the slide frame.

Abstract: A vibration dampening assembly and a suspension system for use, for example, between a cab and a flame of a truck, has a link with a first end pivotably interconnected with a second plate at a first support pivot, a lever with a first end pivotably interconnected with the second end of the link at a link pivot, a shock absorber, the first end of which is pivotably interconnected with the lever second end at a shock pivot and the second end of which is pivotably interconnected to a first or the second plate at a second pivot support spaced from the first support pivot wherein the lever is pivotably interconnected with the first plate at a main pivot connection located intermediate the first and second ends thereof. In one embodiment, the shock absorber central axis and the lever longitudinal axis are parallel when the supporting body and the suspended body are in a static condition.

Abstract: A piston-type rail retarder includes a shock absorber having a cylinder defining a cavity between a pair of end walls. A piston rod extends axially through one of the end walls, and a piston is mounted on the piston rod between the end walls so as to divide the cavity into first and second working chambers containing a damping fluid. A first array of passages extends through the piston and communicates between the first and second chambers, and a sprung valve assembly is provided for obturating the first array of passages in the event of the velocity of the piston rod relative to the cylinder exceeding a predetermined value. The first valve mechanism includes a valve plate and a spring for biasing the valve plate into an open position. An array of restricted orifices extend through the valve plate and communicate directly with the corresponding array of first passages when the valve plate is closed.

Abstract: The invention relates to an arrangement which includes an air spring (2), an ancillary volume (4) and a connecting line (6) which connects the air spring (2) and the ancillary volume (4) to each other. A valve (12), which is actuated by air pressure, is disposed in the connecting line (6). The valve (12) includes a cylinder (14) having a chamber (16) wherein a hollow piston (18) is mounted so as to be axially movable. In an open position of the hollow piston (18), the valve (12) clears the connecting line (6); whereas, the connecting line (6) is blocked in a closed position of the hollow piston (18). The invention also relates to a valve which is actuated by air pressure.

Abstract: A vibration damper with variable damping force, including a cylinder, a piston and a piston rod arranged in the cylinder so as to be axially movable, an adjustable damping valve connected between the piston rod and the cylinder, and controlled as a function of a spring deflection path, a device for controlling the adjustable damping valve, and additional damping valves arranged to have a damping effect on the piston independent of the controlling device.

Abstract: A variable geometry linkage configuration for use between a support structure and suspended body comprises a link member having first and second ends, a first pivotal interconnection for pivotally interconnecting the first end of the link member with a support plate for rotation about a support pivot axis of rotation. A lever member is provided which has a longitudinal axis and first and second ends. A second pivotal interconnection for pivotally interconnecting the first end of the lever member with an impact plate for rotation about a main pivot axis of rotation. A shock pivot is mounted to the lever member and is adapted to connect an end of a shock absorber to the lever member for rotation about a shock pivot axis of rotation. A third pivotal interconnection is provided for pivotally interconnecting the lever member to the link member for rotation about a lever pivot axis of rotation.

Abstract: A vehicle suspension system (110) having a primary suspension system (112) and a secondary suspension system (114). Vertical motion of a vehicle wheel (120) places a force on the vehicle frame (126) which, in turn, places a force on the vehicle body (124). The secondary suspension system (114) translates the relative motion between the wheel (120) and frame (126) into a force on the vehicle body (124) which is equal and opposite to the force transmitted from the frame (126) to the body (124). A frictional shock absorber (300) is utilized in the suspension system (110) as well as a multi-stage coil spring (400).

Abstract: An air spring suspension system for vehicle axles reduces the dynamic force on the system's air springs during braking and acceleration of the vehicle and thereby prevents the diving of the vehicle chassis toward the road surface on application of the vehicle's brakes or acceleration of the vehicle.

Abstract: An air suspension system for a motor home wherein a frame supports a body and the suspension system supports the frame relative to the axles of the motor home. A structure at the front and rear ends over the axles includes arm portions extended laterally of the frame for supporting the air bags. The position of the air bags is established to substantially maximize the air bag expansion at a determined maximum road deviation to be encountered by the motor home.

Abstract: A suspension assembly comprising a combination torque rod and sway bar is shown and described. In a preferred embodiment, the assembly comprises two arms that are pivotally coupled at a first end to a first and second end of a crossmember, the second ends of the arms being coupled to a vehicle axle. By providing a suspension assembly in this manner, the arms function as torque rods to absorb the longitudinal stresses generated by the acceleration and deceleration of the vehicle. The arms also work in combination with the crossmember to function as a sway bar, the pivotal coupling between the arms and crossmember allowing the assembly to transfer vertical forces from one side to the other, while still allowing the axle to cross-articulate. In this manner, the number of components, weight, and cost of manufacture is minimized, traction is improved, and component fatigue and failure is minimized.

Abstract: An axle of a motor vehicle axle includes a rigid axle body and at least one leaf spring arrangement on each of opposite sides of a longitudinal median plane of the vehicle. The spring arrangement is hinged at a front end thereof to a chassis-stationary bearing axis and is clamped at a position spaced from such axis rigidly to the axle body. One supporting arm projects rearwardly from the axle body and forms the bottom bearing of an air spring on an upper side of which a chassis is braced and having an axle lifting mechanism.

Abstract: A vibration dampening suspension device for isolating a truck cab from the force vibrations of a vehicle frame, which includes an impact plate mounted to the truck cab, and a support plate mounted to the vehicle suspension. The device further includes a link member pivotally interconnected at one end with the support plate at a support pivot, and a lever member with a first end pivotally interconnected with the impact plate at a main pivot. The link member is pivotally interconnected with the lever member for rotation of the lever member with respect to the main pivot during compression of the shock absorber when the supporting body, suspended body and device are in a dynamic condition. A hydraulic shock absorber is provided with a first end pivotally interconnected with the lever member second end at a shock pivot and the second end pivotally interconnected with the impact plate at a pivot spaced from the main pivot.

Abstract: A suspension system (28) for a track laying vehicle includes a support arm (30) that defines a cavity (36) and has a first end (32) about which the arm pivots under the control of a stationary crank arm (38) and a cylinder of (42) supported for swiveling movement by a swivel bearing (46). The cylinder (42) has a piston (48) that is connected to the crank arm (38) and which operates to compress suppression liquid within the cavity (36) to thereby control jounce and rebound movement of the support arm.

Abstract: A method and system for effecting pneumatically cushioned independent front steer axle suspension for s Class 8 (33,001 lb+GVW) highway truck. An air spring rocker is provided to improve the fit arrangement of the front suspension components. By its pivoting action, the air spring rocker serves to take the vertically-directed suspension load and redirect this load to compress a suspension air spring in a horizontal direction, against a chassis frame rail side member. The left hand side road wheel is enabled to articulate independently of the articulation movement of the right hand side road wheel, and vice versa.

Abstract: An active, frequency damping suspension system for vehicles having a chassis and at least one axle comprises a pneumatic spring connected mechanically between the vehicle axle and the vehicle chassis to absorb vertical movements of the vehicle axle and prevent them from being transmitted to the chassis, a hydraulic shock absorber connected between the vehicle axle and the vehicle chassis to dampen the vertical movements of the vehicle axle, and a pressure accumulator in fluid communication with the air spring or in fluid communication with both the air spring and the hydraulic shock absorber for enhancing the cushioning effect of the air spring on vertical movements of the vehicle axle and enhancing the dampening effect of the shock absorber on vertical movements of the axle.

Abstract: A frame and suspension assembly is capable of a low frame rail orientation and enhanced on-road stability when incorporated in a motor vehicle. An air spring suspension system is mounted outwardly of the frame rails and the frame rails include a reinforced notch to provide the required structural clearance for the rear axle to compensate for the low-to-the-ground frame rail positioning. An anti-sway bar which spans the distance between the two sides of the frame is also included for further stabilization.

Abstract: A bush is disclosed particularly for flexibly mounting an axle assembly on the chassis of a vehicle. An elastic bush is inserted in a sleeve mounted on the axle assembly. The elastic bush as a tapered bore. A pin with a tapered outer face is inserted in the tapered bore and expands the elastic bush into frictional engagement with the sleeve. The sleeve and elastic bush are located between mounting plates mounted on the chassis. The pin is fixed to at least one of the mounting plates by means of a bolt which passes through a hole in the mounting plate so that any movement between the axle assembly and the chassis is taken up by flexure of the elastic bush. The axis of the bolt is offset from the axis of the tapered face of the pin so that the pin can be brought into alignment with the hole in the mounting plate by rotating the pin in the bore of the elastic bush.

Abstract: An air spring for motor vehicles to absorb road shocks includes first and second axially spaced end members with an intervening flexible sleeve forming a fluid pressure chamber therebetween. An improved two-way damping valve connects the pressure chamber to a fluid reservoir and provides damping for the air spring by restricting fluid flow in one direction, either into or out of the pressure chamber, without materially effecting the fluid flow in the opposite direction. The valve includes a flexible diaphragm formed of reinforced rubber having slots which provide one or more flaps. The diaphragm preferably is mounted on a rigid annular washer having a predetermined size center opening forming a damping orifice. The flaps are drawn automatically into the washer opening to restrict the fluid flow through the orifice when the fluid moves in one direction, with the flaps moving away from the orifice to permit free movement of the fluid therethrough when the fluid is moving in an opposite direction.

Abstract: The invention relates to a hydropneumatic spring suspension or shock absorber device, in particular for heavy motor vehicles, which a spring element comprising a housing for a spring bellows filled with a hydraulic medium which is in flow connection with a chamber filled with hydraulic fluid and in which a pneumatic spring is disposed which is deformable under hydraulic pressure, one end of the bellows being supported in the housing and medium being admitted at the other end via an abutment connected with one of the parts. In accordance with the invention, a compact low wear-and-tear spring suspension device is obtained in that the bellows is bent into a substantially circular arc shape and the abutment is movable along the circular arc.

Abstract: The suspension element comprises an arm (1) through which extends a wheel stub-axle (2) of the vehicle which is rotatively mounted on a fixed part (3) integral with the chassis of the vehicle with interposition of bearing means between the fixed part (3) and the arm (1), a hydraulic chamber (5) being provided in the arm (1) and containing a slidable piston (7) on which is pivotally mounted a link (8) whose end opposed to the piston (7) is pivotally mounted on the fixed part (3). The bearing means comprise a bearing bush (23) surrounding the fixed part (3) and internally coated with a material for a high resistance dry sliding, the bush (23) being apertured for allowing the arm (1) to oscillate on each side of a lug (13) of the fixed part (3) which radially projects from the bush (23) and is pivotally mounted on the link (8).

Abstract: An improved vehicle front suspension assembly is disclosed utilizing pneumatic springs for use with a .[.conventional.]. vehicle body and frame configuration and with a .[.conventional.]. vehicle front axle .[.housing.]. and wheel assembly. A left air spring and a right air spring are included each mounted in abutment with the bottom portion of the frame of the vehicle and mounted upon the top of the axle .[.housing.]. of the vehicle. A stabilizer bar assembly is used having a left stabilizer bar, a right stabilizer bar and two lateral stabilizer bars, one in the rear and one in the front, which are fixedly secured with respect to the left and right stabilizer bars to form a secure overall stabilizer bar assembly. A spring support plate is fixedly secured with respect to this stabilizer assembly and is adapted to receive a front air spring mounted to the foremost top portion thereof. This front air spring .[.if.]. .Iadd.is .Iaddend.