Antiroll Or Antisway Patents (Class 280/124.106)
  • Patent number: 8177245
    Abstract: A suspension is provided for non-steered wheels on a motor vehicle body. The suspension includes, but is not limited to a twist-beam rear axle with a Watt linkage. A top rocker arm of the Watt linkage is mounted on the motor vehicle body. The Watt linkage prevents the motor vehicle from oversteering during cornering. The damping bushes can be disconnected in part from wheel-guiding functions as the Watt linkage performs a major part of the wheel guiding functions, which leaves some freedom for designing the characteristics so as to significantly increase motoring comfort.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Gerd Bitz, Werner Brinker, Dirk Ehrlich, Michael Harder, Matthew S. Purdy, Wolfgang Stoff
  • Patent number: 8167319
    Abstract: A stabilizer apparatus including: (a) torsion bars; (b) a cylinder device including a movable piston and cooperating with the piston to define a fluid chamber accommodating therein a working fluid; and (c) a mechanism configured to hold the piston in a movement end position when the torsion bars are positioned in a neutral angular position, move the piston away from the movement end position when the torsion bars are rotated away from the neutral angular position, and move the piston toward the movement end position when the torsion bars are rotated toward the neutral angular position. The apparatus is capable of switching between a state that allows the piston to be moved in both the opposite directions by allowing outflow and inflow of the working fluid from and into the fluid chamber and another state that allows the piston to be moved only toward the movement end position by allowing only one of the outflow and inflow of the working fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Atsushi Ogawa
  • Publication number: 20120098226
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides an elastomeric bushing assembly that includes a multi-piece inner metal component. The inner metal component is formed from a plurality of stamped components that when assembled form a hollow chamber in the center section of the inner metal component. Flat sections at opposite ends of the center section include folded over tabs which increase the strength of the flat sections.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2010
    Publication date: April 26, 2012
    Applicant: The Pullman Company
    Inventors: Troy P. Rodecker, Joseph F. Cerri, III
  • Publication number: 20120098227
    Abstract: A stabilization system for a motor vehicle, such as an agricultural utility vehicle, includes several spring elements which movably support a vehicle body relative to a vehicle chassis. The system includes a stabilizer bar that extends in the direction of a rocking or pitching movement of the vehicle body. The bar has a first end piece pivotally coupled to the vehicle body and a second end piece pivotally coupled to the chassis. The stabilizer bar has two bar segments that are movable relative to each other in its longitudinal direction. A locking device is operable to prevent to prevent relative movement between the bar segments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2011
    Publication date: April 26, 2012
    Inventors: Christian Von HOLST, Tobias HEGLER, Christof BOGE
  • Patent number: 8157276
    Abstract: A piston coupled to a piston rod is inserted in a cylinder, and an outer cylinder is disposed around the cylinder so as to define a reservoir therebetween. A separator tube is disposed around the cylinder so as to define an annular passage therebetween. The piston rod can be locked and unlocked by closing and opening an electromagnetic open/close valve so as to block and allow a flow of hydraulic fluid through a flow passage between the annular passage and the reservoir. The separator tube has a greater thickness. O-rings are disposed so as to provide seals between the separator tube and the cylinder. The separator tube extends to positions such that the ends of the separator tube overlap a base valve and a rod guide, thereby holding the respective ends of the cylinder. Due to this configuration, it is possible to prevent deformation of the cylinder and the separator tube due to an increase in the hydraulic pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: Hitachi Automotive Systems, Ltd.
    Inventors: Kenji Noda, Yoshiaki Totani
  • Publication number: 20120068430
    Abstract: A suspension system with inclination stabilization, in particular for use on heavy work vehicles, such as a dumper, where the front pair of wheels is mounted on a transverse rigid axle, has an axle (5) firmly connected with a Y-shaped frame (1) extending in the longitudinal direction along the central line (M) of the vehicle. The frame is suspended from the chassis of the vehicle, partly from a spherical bearing (4) disposed in the central line of the vehicle, partly via two spring units (2, 3) arranged symmetrically around the central line and a rod connection (7). The frame is additionally equipped with one or more laterally directed stabilization arms (6) which are confined by the chassis. This provides a suspension system which contains a very small number of components, which is stable, sturdy and resistant to wear, and which contains both springing, level adjustment and inclination stabilization.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2010
    Publication date: March 22, 2012
    Applicant: HYDREMA PRODUKTION A/S
    Inventor: Thorkil K Iversen
  • Publication number: 20120068429
    Abstract: In a method of making a stabilizer, a rubber molding is vulcanized onto an inner side of an outer shell to produce a rubber bearing. After coating a stabilizer bar, the rubber bearing is vulcanized onto the stabilizer bar in a joining zone while maintaining the rubber bearing under a defined tension using a biasing tool. After vulcanization and removal of the biasing tool, a bearing bracket is connected in surrounding relationship to the rubber bearing while maintaining the rubber bearing under a defined tension.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2011
    Publication date: March 22, 2012
    Applicant: Benteler Automobiltechnik GmbH
    Inventors: WULF HÄRTEL, Ullrich Hammelmaier, Peter Koczar
  • Patent number: 8140221
    Abstract: A motor vehicle has a vehicle body and a chassis that has at least one wheel suspension device for two opposing wheel. An adjusting device is assigned to each of the wheels. The adjusting devices are coupled to one another by a stabilizer. At least two stabilizer bearings are provided for rotatable support of the stabilizer, and at least one coupling device is provided on the vehicle body for variable torque support of the stabilizer. Accordingly, a reliable level lifting function is provided, based on a sturdy configuration that is both space-saving and weight-saving. The coupling device for torque support of the stabilizer on the vehicle body may have a switchable blocking device and/or at least one spring mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Michael Becker, Matthias Dietz, Achim Schulz, Thorsten Koch, Thomas Hunn
  • Publication number: 20120061935
    Abstract: A front rigid axle arrangement for an agricultural vehicle, wherein an axle is pivotally mounted to an axle carrier for movement about a first pivot axis allowing movement of the axle in a transverse vertical plane and wherein the axle is pivotable about a second axis for movement of the axle in a vertical plane. The first and second pivot axes are parallel to each other. The axle is provided with at least two dampers which control movement of the axle both in a vertical plane and a transverse vertical plane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2011
    Publication date: March 15, 2012
    Applicant: AGCO GMBH
    Inventor: Guido Nägele
  • Publication number: 20120061934
    Abstract: An anti-roll suspension system for a vehicle chassis having at least two laterally spaced front wheels, the suspension comprising an axle assembly for mounting each of a pair of laterally spaced wheels; a torsion bar spring assembly for mounting the chassis on each of the interconnected axle assemblies; a moveable arm connected between the spring and the chassis, and an anti roll pivoting link and connector link connected between said chassis and the moveable arm of the axles of the suspension system being responsive to a lateral force on said chassis, and structured to translate lateral force on the chassis to a vertical force on the down force side of the chassis so that the anti roll linkage simultaneously lift the down force side of the vehicle and lower the up force side of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2011
    Publication date: March 15, 2012
    Inventor: Onofrio Scaduto
  • Patent number: 8128110
    Abstract: A combination of existing suspension designs is provided to suspend moving vehicles such as cars, trucks, planes, and snowmobiles and provide two degrees of freedom in the wheels or skis. The design combines a dive suspension with a roll suspension, including a locking linkage. The locking linkage locks out the roll suspension during dive, jounce, flight or two-wheel bump motion. Both the dive and roll suspensions are responsive during roll motion and one-wheel bump motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: Sacli Suspension, LLC
    Inventor: Melih Sacli
  • Publication number: 20120049480
    Abstract: A roll control system improves stability in turning by actively controlling roll stiffness in accordance with traveling conditions of a vehicle. The active roll control system for a vehicle suspension includes a stabilizer bar of which the middle straight portion is fixed to a sub-frame by a mount bush and both ends are connected with a lower control arm by a stabilizer link to suppress roll of the vehicle body, in which a roll control mechanism is disposed between a lower end connecting portion of the stabilizer link and the lower control arm to increase roll stiffness by increasing a lever ratio of the stabilizer bar, if needed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventors: Un Koo LEE, Sung Bae Jang
  • Patent number: 8118314
    Abstract: The invention relates to a switchable stabilizer device for the axle of a motor vehicle. Herein, the actuating device comprises a roll stabilizer and an actuatorically switchable coupling device (6) with two clutch devices (7, 8) and a locking sleeve (9). According to the present invention, the stabilizer device is characterized by a shifting device for shifting the locking sleeve (9) by means of mechanical power transmission. Herein, the shifting device has a servo-electric transmission drive element (4). The present invention provides a robust and compact switchable roll stabilizer, which can be produced cost-efficiently. At the same time, the present invention allows for the actuatoric support of the opening movement as well as the locking movement of the stabilizer coupling with very short shifting times. The switchable stabilizer according to the present invention is suitable for motor vehicles, for example, which are employed off-road as well as on the road.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Metin Ersoy, Jens Vortmeyer, Bernd Grannemann
  • Patent number: 8109522
    Abstract: A stabilizer bar system that includes a first stabilizer bar, a second stabilizer bar and a clutch having a clutch housing and a plurality of coupling members housed in the clutch housing. The first stabilizer bar is received in the clutch housing for rotation relative to the clutch housing about a rotational axis. The second stabilizer bar is fixedly coupled to the clutch housing. The coupling members are configured to selectively non-rotatably couple the first stabilizer bar to the clutch housing such that the clutch housing is employed to transmit torque between the first and second stabilizer bars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignee: American Axle & Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew F. Pinkos, Todd M. York, Curt D. Gilmore, Gary A. Oliveira, Mark A. Danielsen
  • Publication number: 20110309592
    Abstract: An automobile anti-roll device comprises a swing rod attached to the right and the left sides of the car that contain within a slide rod with a roller attached at the lower end. The invention further comprises push-pull rods with drive mechanism comprising a spring for driving the swing rod to swing; a pull hook for returning the push-pull rod back to its original position; a brake for restricting the sliding movement of push-pull rod; a spring for ejecting the swing rod outward; a brake for restricting the slide rod to retract; a pull hook for pulling the slide rod back to its original position; a load-bearing device attached to either the car frame or the swing rod for holding the slide rod. The invention includes a control sensor for detecting the right or left tilt angle of the car and coordinating the movement of the components of the device. The invention aims to provide an effectively preventive measure for car overturn with a simple and user-friendly structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2008
    Publication date: December 22, 2011
    Inventors: Chen Yuet CHAN, Kuan Chieh CHEN
  • Publication number: 20110309593
    Abstract: A Watt's linkage for the movable connection of two machine parts, in particular a vehicle axle and a vehicle body, includes, but is not limited to two rods, whose ends facing away from one another engage on a first of the machine parts, and a coupling device, which couples the ends of the rods facing toward one another to one another, and is linked on the second machine part. The coupling device includes, but is not limited to two levers pivotable around fixed pivot axes on the second machine part. A first engagement point of the levers is connected in each case to one of the ends of the rods facing toward one another, and second engagement points of the levers are connected to one another by a coupling body, which forces a pivot movement in opposite directions of each of the two levers around their pivot axes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2011
    Publication date: December 22, 2011
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Wolfgang Stoff, Michael Harder, Sven Ohligschlaeger
  • Patent number: 8061726
    Abstract: As a result of a configuration and position of an upper transverse link and of a lower transverse link, a wheel pivot axis is created which has a point of intersection with an area region of a vertical wheel central transverse plane and a wheel central longitudinal plane. An adjustment of the wheel in a toe-out sense takes place under the influence of braking forces and an adjustment of the wheel in a toe-in sense takes place under the influence of drive forces. Furthermore, as a result of different mount characteristics at the lower transverse link and at the track rod, it is ensured that, in the event of side forces, the wheel which is at the outside of the corner is adjusted in a toe-out sense.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Reinhard Kunert, Wilhelm Frasch, Norbert Schote
  • Publication number: 20110278812
    Abstract: The invention relates to an arrangement of a stabilizer (44), which is configured in two parts, on a wheel suspension for a motor vehicle, characterized in that the stabilizer parts (43) thereof can be rotated relative to one another in the same or opposite direction by means of an associated motor/gear unit (46). Each stabilizer part (43) comprises a hollow-cylindrical outer torsion bar (49) whose end on the gear side (45) is connected to a gear output (50a) and whose end distal from the gear is connected for drive purposes to an inner torsion bar (47) which is guided through the hollow-cylindrical outer torsion bar (49) and out of the end (45) on the gear side of the hollow-cylindrical outer torsion bar. The inner torsion bar (47) is directly or indirectly connected to an output lever (41) which is articulated on a wheel suspension element (16).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2009
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Applicant: AUDI AG
    Inventors: Armin Ohletz, Walter Schmidt
  • Publication number: 20110278811
    Abstract: The invention relates to an arrangement of a stabilizer (26), which is configured in two parts, on a wheel suspension for a motor vehicle, comprising torsion bars (26b) which are separated from each other and are each articulated on wheel suspension elements (16) by means of an output lever (26a) and can be co-rotated in the same or opposite direction by means of associated actuating devices (30), wherein each torsion bar (26b) is extended with a hollow shaft (26e) which encompasses the torsion bar (26b) in order to increase the effective torsion length, the output lever (26a) being formed on the hollow shaft. According to the invention, the torsion bar (26b) is mounted in a fixed bearing (59) in the actuating device (30) and in an axial loose bearing (26d) in the hollow shaft (26e).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2009
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Applicant: AUDI AG
    Inventors: Armin Ohletz, Walter Schmidt
  • Patent number: 8050818
    Abstract: A roll stiffness control apparatus of a vehicle, which includes a controller that estimates a remaining capacity of front wheels to generate a lateral force and a remaining capacity of rear wheels to generate a lateral force, and that sets a roll stiffness distribution ratio between the front wheels and the rear wheels so as to reduce a difference between the remaining capacity of the front wheels to generate a lateral force and the remaining capacity of the rear wheels to generate a lateral force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Yuichi Mizuta
  • Publication number: 20110254242
    Abstract: A connection device for the torque transmitting connection of a connection component (2) to a hollow shaft (1). The connection component (2) comprises a penetrating recess (8) corresponding in shape to the outside cross section of the hollow shaft (1) for receiving one end of the hollow shaft (1), and the hollow shaft comprises a press-fit plug (9) in the area of the connection to the connection component (2) that forms an interference fit with the inner cross section of the hollow shaft (1). Preferably, the connection device is a press-fit plug (9) additionally designed as a bearing seat (10, 11) for at least one bearing (13, 14) assigned to the hollow shaft. The connection device allows durable and reliable transmission of high torques and it is possible to connect further components to the connection between the hollow shaft and the connection component. The connection device allows a reduction in construction space, mass and costs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2009
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Applicant: ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AG
    Inventors: Jens Eismann, Manfred Buhl, Friedhelm Langhorst
  • Patent number: 8038162
    Abstract: A joint unit such as for mounting the vehicle control arm of a motor vehicle, is provided with a control arm-side housing (1), in which a pivot pin (2) is mounted pivotably by means of a spheroidal bearing surface (3), wherein the joint unit has a securing unit against the separation of the housing (1) from the pivot pin (2). The securing unit includes a securing bolt (9), arranged within the pivot pin (2) essentially in parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the pivot pin (2) and with a blocking element (12) at a free end. A securing mount (13) is located within the housing (1) or the pivot pin (2) and in this the blocking element (12) is mounted in a contactless manner in the mounted state of the joint unit. The securing mount (13) is part of the securing unit, and the securing bolt (9) is fixed to the component of the joint unit (housing (1) or pivot pin (2)) that is not provided with the securing mount (13).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Sören Knopp, Manfred Buhl, Ralf Kunze
  • Patent number: 8033556
    Abstract: A combined tramp rod and anti-roll bar is secured between a rear axle beam and the chassis of a vehicle. The tramp rod and anti-roll bar has an intermediate portion, a right arm and a left arm that are connected by bushings to either the rear axle beam or the frame of the vehicle. The combined tramp rod and anti-roll bar provides roll stiffness control and also resists wind-up of the rear axle when high torque loads are applied to the rear axle. D-bushings that resist sliding movement of the intermediate portion in combination with the splayed arms provide improved compliance understeer performance when lateral loads are applied to the rear suspension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Lauri Mikael Ohra-aho, Simon Johnson, Matthew J. Reilly
  • Publication number: 20110221153
    Abstract: A linking rod for a vehicle comprising a basic body (2). The basic body (2) comprises a bearing housing (3) and a joint housing (4) which are spaced apart from one another by a coupling piece (9) of the basic body (2). The bearing housing (3), of the basic body (2). is formed from a first plastic material which is surrounded by an enclosure (7) which is made from a second plastic material that is softer than the first plastic material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2008
    Publication date: September 15, 2011
    Applicant: ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AG
    Inventors: Ulrich Bladt, Olaf Beutler, Günter Lohfink, Karl-Walter Palluck, Stefan Loheide, Dirk Lamla, Stefan Schönhoff, Christian Maassmann
  • Patent number: 8006988
    Abstract: A suspension system includes a plurality of suspension members, each suspension member including a housing having an interior surface that bounds a chamber and a piston slidably disposed within the chamber. The piston seals against the interior surface of the housing so as to separate the chamber into a first compartment and a second compartment, the first compartment and second compartment being filled with a gas. A first gas lines extends in fluid communication between the first compartment of a first suspension member and the second compartment of a second suspension member. A second gas lines extends in fluid communication between the second compartment of a first suspension member and the first compartment of a second suspension member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Inventor: Roy A. Turner
  • Patent number: 8007601
    Abstract: A method for producing a tubular bar, more particularly a stabilizer bar, is provided. The method comprises providing a tubular bar of desired size having an outer and inner surface, heating the bar to an elevated temperature, quenching the bar by application of a cooling fluid to the surfaces of the bar, and forming the tube to a desired shape without annealing. The method further provides for the composition of a high-strength, high formability carbon steel alloy to be used in conjunction with the method. Advantageously, the bar is formable without thermal processing subsequent to quenching. In this fashion, metal tubular bars, such as stabilizer bars, may be formed at reduced cost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Tenaris Connections Limited
    Inventors: Edgardo Oscar López, Lorenzo Vito Caserta, Hernán Juan Desimone, Cuauhtémoc Martinez Salazar
  • Publication number: 20110198820
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a stabilizer (1, 26) which has at least two stabilizer components which are coupled with one another materially by thermal joining, characterized in that a heat-affected zone (7) produced by the thermal joining is at least partially heat treated after coupling. The present invention also relates to a method for producing a stabilizer (1, 26), wherein at least two stabilizer components are connected with one another by thermal joining, characterized in that the heat-affected zone (7) produced by the thermal joining is heat-treated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2011
    Publication date: August 18, 2011
    Applicant: Benteler Automobiltechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Andreas Janzen, Ullrich Hammelmeier, Sebastian Saggel, Friso Berheide, Bernhard Hofmann, Christian Smatloch, Wulf Härtel, Christian Ditter
  • Patent number: 7997588
    Abstract: There is provided with a cylinder apparatus comprising: a cylinder; a piston; a piston rod, one end of which is connected to the piston and the other end of which is extended outside; an external cylinder provided at an outer periphery of the cylinder so as to form a reservoir in which to seal the hydraulic liquid and gas therebetween; a base valve dividing the second chamber and the reservoir; a first check valve provided with the piston so as to allow flow of the hydraulic liquid only from the second chamber side to the first chamber side; a second check valve provided with the base valve so as to allow flow of the hydraulic liquid only from the reservoir side to the second chamber side; a flow passage connecting the first chamber with the reservoir; and an opening and closing valve opening and closing the flow passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Takashi Ohnuma, Takao Nakadate
  • Patent number: 7984918
    Abstract: A stabilizer bar includes a parallel bar which is secured with respect to a frame via fasteners in each of which a bush is fitted, and leg bars which extend from both ends of the parallel bar with distal ends of the leg bars connected to suspension arms. Each leg bar is tapered from an upper end toward a lower end thereof to continuously decrease a section modulus of the leg bar from the upper end toward the lower end thereof so that the stress generated by a load applied to the lower end of the leg bar is not concentrated on a bent part of the stabilizer bar and is distributed over the entire leg bar so as to prevent the stabilizer bar from being broken at the bent part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2011
    Assignee: Dae Won Kang Up Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chan-Gi Jung
  • Publication number: 20110175314
    Abstract: A combined tramp rod and anti-roll bar is secured between a rear axle beam and the chassis of a vehicle. The tramp rod and anti-roll bar has an intermediate portion, a right arm and a left arm that are connected by bushings to either the rear axle beam or the frame of the vehicle. The combined tramp rod and anti-roll bar provides roll stiffness control and also resists wind-up of the rear axle when high torque loads are applied to the rear axle. D-bushings that resist sliding movement of the intermediate portion in combination with the splayed arms provide improved compliance understeer performance when lateral loads are applied to the rear suspension.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2010
    Publication date: July 21, 2011
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Lauri Mikael Ohra-aho, Simon Johnson, Matthew J. Reilly
  • Patent number: 7967307
    Abstract: The present invention provides a heavy duty suspension system including a frame and a pair of spaced apart trailing arms. The trailing arms have at least a portion with an open bottom and flanges extending away from the opening. The trailing arm preferably has a generally U-shaped cross-section over a substantial portion of its length. An axle has opposing end portions pivotally supported respectively on the trailing arms. A V-rod includes first and second spaced apart ends extending to a common third end with the first and second ends preferably pivotally attached to the frame. The third end is preferably pivotally attached to the axle. The V-rod provides lateral stability and defines a pinion angle with the trailing arms. The trailing arms extend longitudinally from the forward portion to a rearward portion. An anti-roll bar includes opposing end portions and a central portion transverse to and extending between the end portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: ArvinMeritor Technology, LLC
    Inventor: Benjamin R. Reineck
  • Patent number: 7967308
    Abstract: A twist beam axle assembly includes a twist tube and a tubular sleeve. The twist tube has a deformed portion with a non-circular cross-section positioned adjacent to an undeformed portion with a substantially circular cross-section. The tubular sleeve is positioned within and coupled to the twist beam to overlap the adjacent deformed and undeformed portions. An outer surface of the sleeve engages an inner surface of the twist tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Magna International Inc.
    Inventor: Dieter Toepker
  • Patent number: 7959164
    Abstract: An example roll control device uses differential pressure values, for example, that are conveyed by a motor driven pump to a first actuator associated with a first stabilizer. The differential pressure values are also conveyed from the motor driven pump to a second stabilizer through a proportional valve in one example. In another example, multiple actuators are utilized with each actuator being associated with a separate motor driven pump in communication with a common controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Assignee: ArvinMeritor Technology, LLC
    Inventors: James Keane, Simon Dean, Edward H. Phillips, Eric Smay
  • Patent number: 7959168
    Abstract: A suspension for a motor vehicle having a hollow suspension member including first and second spaced apart sidewalls and a pivot pin. In the preferred embodiment, the pivot pin is a locking assembly that includes a first retainer partially insertable through a first window formed in the first sidewall and a second retainer partially insertable through a second window formed in the second side wall. The first retainer engages the second retainer to present a pivot that receives a pivot arm between the sidewalls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Assignee: Magna International Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory P. Kiselis, Jeffrey W. Nichols
  • Publication number: 20110127744
    Abstract: A damping bushing is provided for an axle bearing of a trailing arm of a torsion-beam rear axle for a motor vehicle, in particular for an automobile, which includes, but is not limited to a bushing outer sleeve, a bushing inner sleeve, and a damping body. The interposed damping body is disposed coaxially to the bushing outer sleeve and to the bushing inner sleeve between these two elements. The bushing inner sleeve forms a radially outwardly extending spherical surface and the damping bushing has at least one further element that abuts extensively against the spherical surface formed by the bushing inner sleeve. Furthermore, a torsion-beam axle is provided that is fitted with these bushings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2010
    Publication date: June 2, 2011
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Juergen SIEBENEICK, Michael HARDER, Gerd BITZ, Oleg MAZUR, Dirk EHRLICH
  • Publication number: 20110121532
    Abstract: A torsion beam type suspension has no risk that a beam body will directly contact with a fuel tank, or that a frontward projecting portion of a stabilizer will contact with the fuel tank. In a torsion beam type suspension in which a pair of trailing arms are connected to the beam body to form an H-shaped torsion beam, and both ends of the stabilizer separate from the torsion beam are connected to the trailing arms, both-side parts of the stabilizer 7 extending along the beam body 2a are attached to a vehicle body 4, a portion between vehicle body attachment parts 9 of the stabilizer 7 is curved downward, and the curved part 10 is disposed at the rear of the fuel tank 11 and in front of the beam body 2a.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2010
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Inventor: Wataru Akahori
  • Patent number: 7946599
    Abstract: An air suspension includes first and second air spring assemblies that each include a piston airbag and a primary airbag. A first fluid connection connects one of a first piston airbag and a first primary airbag of the first air spring assembly to one of a second piston airbag and a second primary airbag of the second air spring assembly. A second fluid connection connects the other of the first piston airbag and the first primary airbag to the other of the second piston airbag and the second primary airbag. Air flow through the first and second fluid connections is passively controlled solely in response to road load inputs to reduce roll stiffness and improve articulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Assignee: ArvinMeritor Technology, LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey M. Lloyd
  • Publication number: 20110115182
    Abstract: A stabilizer device includes a bar having a portion to be mounted to a vehicle body. A resin ring is integrally formed to the bar by a direct injection method, and a bush made of rubber is provided around the periphery of the resin ring. The bush is fixed to a member of the vehicle body side by a bracket. Since the contact area of the resin ring to the bar is secured by using the axial direction length of the bush, the movement strength of the bush in the axial direction can be improved even when there is size restriction. In the fixing construction of the stabilizer device, the movement of the bush to the bar can be sufficiently prevented even when the size restriction is severe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2009
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Applicant: NHK SPRING CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Shigeru Kuroda
  • Publication number: 20110115183
    Abstract: A cross-member for a motor-vehicle twist-beam axle suspension includes a single piece of steel that defines a closed cross-section and integrally forms a middle section, a pair of end sections, and a pair of joining sections. The middle section has a center axis extending along a curvilinear path lying in a first plane and a squashed portion extending in a second plane inclined to the first plane. The end sections are adapted to be securely connected to respective trailing arms of the twist-beam axle suspension. Each of the joining sections is interposed between the middle section and the respective end section and defines an opposite concavity with respect to the middle section. A twist-beam axle suspension for a motor vehicle includes the cross-member and a pair of trailing arms. A method produces the cross-member for a motor-vehicle twist-beam axle suspension.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2008
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Inventors: Guido Sebastiano Alesso, Massimo Trinchera, Lorenzo Castagno, Andrea Santini, Piero Monchiero
  • Patent number: 7934733
    Abstract: A stabilizing device for a heavy vehicle, such as a truck or the like, includes a stabilizer bar which can be attached to a vehicle axle and pivotally mounted relative to a vehicle frame via stabilizer arms. The stabilizer bar and respective stabilizer arm are pivotally interconnected to each other. At least one said stabilizer arm is attached to a stabilizer anchor which is mountable in a vehicle frame, and the stabilizer anchor includes a stabilizer arm attachment point which is displaceable so as to enable the effective length of the stabilizer arm to be adjusted within a predetermined interval.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Assignee: Volvo Lastvasgnar AB
    Inventor: Andreas Lundmark
  • Patent number: 7931281
    Abstract: A variable stiffness stabilizer device (1) has a stabilizer bar (2) and actuators (3). The stabilizer bar (2) has a torsion bar (4) extending in the lateral direction (X1) of a vehicle and arms (6) connected through bend portions (5) to the ends (4a, 4b) of the torsion bar (4) and bendingly deformed according to the strokes of wheel supporting members (11). Variable bending stiffness parts (13; 130) of the arms (6) are rotatable about the axes (C1) of the arms (6), so that the bending stiffness of the arms (6) can be changed according to their rotational positions. The actuators (3) rotationally drive the variable bending stiffness parts (13; 130) about the axes (C1) to adjust the rotational positions of the variable bending stiffness parts (13; 130).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: JTEKT Corporation
    Inventors: Shingo Maeda, Sadahiro Kawahara, Masanori Arima, Kosuke Yamanaka
  • Publication number: 20110089658
    Abstract: A stabilizer bar for a commercial vehicle which comprises an elongate torsion spring (5), two suspension arms (6, 7) which are securely connected to and extend away from the torsion spring (5) and, between which the torsion spring (5) extends. An actuator (12) is connected in parallel with the torsion spring (5) and is connected to the torsion spring (5) or the suspension arms (6, 7) with the intermediate connection of hinge joints (23, 25) or leaf springs (17, 19).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2009
    Publication date: April 21, 2011
    Applicant: ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AG
    Inventors: Manfred Buhl, Friedhelm Langhorst, Bernhard Eilers
  • Patent number: 7926821
    Abstract: A chassis arrangement includes a stabilizer having a single-piece center part with opposite ends, a first stabilizer arm connected to one of the opposite ends of the center part, and a second stabilizer arm connected to the other one of the opposite ends of the center part. A stabilizer support assembly having two support units supports the center part in relation to a vehicle body. Operatively connected to the center part are at least two brake units for influencing a twistability of the center part, with one of the brake units being arranged between one of the support units and an adjacent one of the first and second stabilizer arms, and the other one of the brake units being arranged between the other one of the support units and an adjacent one of the first and second stabilizer arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Assignee: Benteler Automobiltechnik GmbH
    Inventor: Armin Zuber
  • Publication number: 20110084457
    Abstract: A rough terrain vehicle including an elongated main frame for supporting a self-contained v-haul body; first and second forwardly-extending frame arms located on opposite sides of the main frame; third and fourth rearwardly-extending frame arms located on opposite sides of the main frame, each arm having a wheel mounted thereon. Also included are first and second cross members pivotably connected to the arms configured to enable the main frame and the frame arms to pivot about a lengthwise axis of the main frame. First and second length-adjustable member operatively connected to the first frame arm and the third frame arm and the second frame arm and the fourth frame arm, respectively; selective movement of each length-adjustable member causing the associated arm to move up or down; and a level detector for producing and applying leveling signals to each of the length-adjustable members to maintain the elongated main frame in a relatively level orientation when the vehicle encounters uneven terrain.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2009
    Publication date: April 14, 2011
    Inventors: Herman Madler, James R. Madler
  • Publication number: 20110068552
    Abstract: A hydraulic anti-roll system for a vehicle includes a first hydraulic actuator, a second hydraulic actuator, an anti-roll control module, and an anti-roll bypass valve. The first hydraulic actuator is adapted to be connected between the suspension and frame of the vehicle on one side and the second hydraulic actuator is adapted to be connected between the suspension and frame of the vehicle on its other side. The anti-roll control module is connected between the fluid lines of the first and second hydraulic actuators. The anti-roll control module stiffens the compression of the first hydraulic actuator relative to the expansion of the second hydraulic actuator, and stiffens the compression of the second hydraulic actuator relative to the expansion of the first hydraulic actuator. The anti-roll bypass valve is adapted to activate and deactivate the stiffening of the anti-roll control module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2010
    Publication date: March 24, 2011
    Inventors: Jeffrey S. Ryan, Todd J. Holbert, David J. Holden, Jeff L. Peterson, Seth D. Chavka
  • Patent number: 7909339
    Abstract: A vehicle stabilizer bar assembly having a pair of stabilizer bar members that are selectively uncoupled via a clutch. The clutch includes a moving element that can be selectively moved via an actuator to effect the uncoupling of the stabilizer bar members. The actuator is configured to apply a force to the moving element concentrically about the axis along which the moving element translates. The clutch is configured to transmit torque from one of the stabilizer bar members to the other stabilizer bar member concentrically about the axis. A method for operating a vehicle stabilizer bar assembly is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2011
    Assignee: American Axle & Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew F. Pinkos, Todd M. York, Curt D. Gilmore, Gary A. Oliveira, Mark A. Danielsen
  • Patent number: 7909341
    Abstract: Suspension system for a vehicle, comprising two hydraulic piston-cylinder units (1) comprising a first and a second cylinder chamber (3a, 3b), connected with electro-hydraulic roll control means which are arranged to control the vehicle's roll behavior under electric control of the vehicle's computer system (C), comprising a direction valve, a pump unit and pressure control means. The direction valve is a hydraulically actuatable direction valve (6) having two first and two second switching ports (6a, 6b), interconnectable in three positions, and two hydraulic control ports (6c) which are either indirectly or directly, connected with said pump unit (5, 10). The pressure control means comprise an uni-directional pressure control module (9, 15), connected with both second switching ports of the hydraulically actuatable direction valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2011
    Assignee: Nederiandse Organisatie Voor Toegepast-natuurwetenschappelijk Onderzoek TNO
    Inventor: Albertus Clemens Maria Van Der Knaap
  • Patent number: 7900941
    Abstract: A suspension system for providing a suspension between wheels and a frame of a vehicle is provided. The system includes an arm beam pivotally mounted to the frame at its proximate end and coupled at its distal end to a guiding assembly enabling the arm beam to pivot in a vertical direction and to be restrained in lateral directions perpendicular to the vertical direction. The arm beam includes: (a) a spring and damper assembly near its distal end for providing a dampened resilient mount for the suspension; (b) a wheel axle beam coupled to the arm beam for bearing a load borne by the wheels transmitted directly in-line with a central axis of the spring and damper assembly; and (c) a stabilizer coupled between the arm beam and the frame, the stabilizer resisting a lateral rolling motion of the vehicle. The stabilizer is included between the proximate end of the arm beams and their damper and spring assemblies for rendering the system more compact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Volvo Lastvagnar AB
    Inventor: Andreas Lundmark
  • Publication number: 20110037239
    Abstract: A stabilizer device according to the present invention includes a first stabilizer bar, a second stabilizer bar, and a variable rigidity unit coupling the stabilizer bars and adjusting torsion rigidity. The variable rigidity unit includes a linear motion mechanism adapted to perform a linear motion according to a relative rotation between the first stabilizer bar and the second stabilizer bar, a biasing mechanism for biasing the linear motion mechanism in a direction for preventing the linear motion, and a biasing force adjustment mechanism for adjusting a biasing force of the biasing mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2010
    Publication date: February 17, 2011
    Inventors: Shunsuke Mori, Takayasu Sakashita
  • Patent number: 7887071
    Abstract: An active, divided stabilizer for a motor vehicle having an incorporated pivot motor is provided. The pivot motor is used for pivot regulation and includes at least one displacement drive having a motor and transmission, and a housing. At least one housing part is connected to an associated stabilizer part for torque transmission. The housing part has an axially oriented, central indentation, into which the stabilizer part extends. The connection for torque transmission between the housing part and the stabilizer part is located therein. A sensor for detecting the torsion angle of the stabilizer part is attached to the housing part, with a corresponding encoder is fixed on the stabilizer part, or vice versa.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Martin Grieshaber, Reinhard Simkovics, Michael Spielmann