Centrifugal Force Transmission Linkage Patents (Class 280/124.107)
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Patent number: 7837202Abstract: A stabilizer control device for a vehicle includes a first and second stabilizer bars, a housing fixed to an end portion of the second stabilizer bar so as to arrange an end portion of the first stabilizer bar adjacent to the end portion of the second stabilizer bar, a rotational torque reducing mechanism having an input portion fixed to the first stabilizer bar and the housing and reducing a relative rotational torque between the housing and the first stabilizer bar and outputting, a hollow member including the first stabilizer bar so as to rotatably support the first stabilizer bar within the housing and fixed with an output portion of the rotational torque reducing mechanism so as to rotatably support the output portion within the housing, and a clutch mechanism arranged between the hollow member and the housing for engaging and disengaging therebetween.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2007Date of Patent: November 23, 2010Assignee: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Akiya Taneda, Ken Ogue, Toshiyuki Sakai
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Patent number: 7832739Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: October 29, 2007Date of Patent: November 16, 2010Assignee: American Axle & Manufacturing, Inc.Inventors: Andrew F. Pinkos, Todd M. York, Curt D. Gilmore, Gary A. Oliveira, Mark A. Danielsen
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Patent number: 7828307Abstract: A stabilizer arrangement is provided for a motor vehicle with a stabilizer (1), which is connected to the vehicle chassis and which is connected, on each side of the vehicle, to a spring-mounted wheel carrier part with a piston-cylinder unit (4, 4?). Each of the piston-cylinder units (4, 4?) includes at least one piston (8), which is movably arranged in a cylinder (7) and which splits the cylinder into a first and a second cylinder chamber (7a, 7b). The cylinder chambers are separate from one another. The piston-cylinder units (4, 4?) are respectively connected in an articulated manner, at one end, to an end of the stabilizer 1 and, at the other end, to a spring-mounted wheel carrier part. The piston (8) has a connecting line (14) that connects the first and second cylinder chambers. The respective connecting line (14) has a nonreturn valve (15), which acts in one direction. The piston (8) can be moved into at least one end position.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2005Date of Patent: November 9, 2010Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AGInventors: Metin Ersoy, Jens Vortmeyer
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Patent number: 7819406Abstract: An improve spring rate of a stabilizer is provided with an extended spring length. An inner rotary part (4) of an oscillating motor (2) and a second stabilizer part (1) are connected to one another with a non-positive connection (force transmitting friction connection) designed such that the axial center of the force-transmitting length of the second stabilizer part (1) and the axial center of the force-transmitting length of the inner rotary part (4) are located on a common radial plane. The non-positive connection between the inner rotary part (4) and a fitting cylinder (14) of the second stabilizer part (1) is formed either from a shrunk-on fit or a toothed part (21) and a fitting part (22), wherein the toothed part (21) and the fitting part (22) are likewise shrunk on.Type: GrantFiled: July 4, 2005Date of Patent: October 26, 2010Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AGInventors: Stefan Beetz, Winfried Krueger, Torsten Baustian
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Patent number: 7822563Abstract: A method of calculating a cornering force to be applied to each wheel provided to a vehicle which is cornering, comprising the steps of: obtaining a magnitude of a centrifugal force to the vehicle in a direction substantially orthogonal to a vehicle traveling direction, a contact length of each wheel during the cornering of the vehicle, and an amount of deformation in a wheel width direction at the contact portion of each wheel of the vehicle, calculating a difference between the obtained amount of the deformation and an amount of deformation in the wheel width direction under a straight forward travel condition of the vehicle for each wheel, and calculating a cornering force for each wheel based on the magnitude of the centrifugal force, the contact length, and the difference between amounts of deformation in the wheel width direction.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2006Date of Patent: October 26, 2010Assignee: The Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd.Inventors: Jun Matsuda, Tsuyoshi Kitazaki, Naoshi Miyashita
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Patent number: 7815205Abstract: Coupling mechanism for a vehicle anti-roll bar comprising a first piece able to be fixed to a first half-bar, a second piece able to be fixed to a second half-bar, the second piece being so arranged as to be moveable in rotation about an axis of rotation A relative to the first piece. The mechanism includes at least one elastically deformable elongate element coupled to the first and second pieces so that relative rotation of the first and second pieces about the axis of rotation A causes elastic flexion deformation of the at least one elongate element, the mechanism including an actuator able to position the at least one elongate element in a first state in which the said at least one elongate element presents a first flexion stiffness for the said elastic flexion deformation, and a second state in which the said at least one elongate element presents a second flexion stiffness for the said elastic flexion deformation.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2006Date of Patent: October 19, 2010Inventors: Laurent Barth, Xavier Delayre
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Publication number: 20100244395Abstract: A stabilizer bar is intended for use in a vehicle, and a torsion part of the stabilizer bar is fixed to the vehicle body by a fixing member. A resin sheathing is provided integrally on an outer peripheral surface of the stabilizer bar. The fixing member is composed of the sheathing, a rubber bush disposed on the outer periphery of the sheathing, and a mounting fixture for mounting the rubber bush on the vehicle body side so as to cover the outer periphery of the rubber bush. The sheathing and the rubber bush are immovably assembled to each other. Thus, there may be provided a vehicle stabilizer, highly durable, easily mountable and replaceable, low-cost, and highly operable.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 10, 2010Publication date: September 30, 2010Applicants: NHK Spring Co., Ltd., NHK International Corp.Inventors: Hironobu SUGIURA, Shigeru Kuroda, Kiyoshi Kurimoto, Yurika Goto, Shinichi Nishizawa
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Publication number: 20100225083Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: June 16, 2006Publication date: September 9, 2010Applicant: DAE WON KANG UP CO., LTD.Inventor: Chan-Gi Jung
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Publication number: 20100225084Abstract: A vehicle suspension or damping system includes a coupling component, a torsion bar, a plurality of lever arms, a fluid based damping device, a coil spring, and an electronically controlled valve-based damping device. The torsion bar converts an external load that is transferred to the torsion bar via the coupling component into a rotational displacement of the torsion bar. Each of the lever arms is adapted to physically move with the torsion bar when said torsion bar experiences a rotational displacement, and each of the fluid based damping device, coil spring and electronically controlled valve-based damping device damps physical movement of its respective lever arm. One or more damping devices can be coupled to each such lever arm. Alternative applications for the disclosed suspension and shock damping systems can include load transferring manufacturing machinery and earthquake damping for buildings and other structures.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 30, 2009Publication date: September 9, 2010Applicant: DARCO TRUSTInventors: Nicholas J. CHAPMAN, Walter KOHLER
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Patent number: 7766344Abstract: An adjuster device includes (a) a shaft held by a vehicle body; (b) an arm extending from the shaft in a direction intersecting an axial direction of the shaft; (c) an actuator causing one of rotation of the shaft and axial movement of the shaft in the axial direction; and (d) a motion converter converting the one of the rotation of the shaft and the axial movement of the shaft, into the other of the rotation of the shaft and the axial movement of the shaft. The arm is connected at a distal end portion thereof to one of at least one suspension arm, so as to enable the rotation of the shaft to cause change in a vertical distance between a wheel and the vehicle body. The shaft is connected to one of the at least one suspension arm or to an axle carrier, so as to enable the axial movement of the shaft to cause change in an alignment of the wheel. Also disclosed is an adjusting system including the adjuster device.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 2007Date of Patent: August 3, 2010Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Shuuichi Buma
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Patent number: 7766352Abstract: A highly roll stable suspension system for a truck, trailer, or semi-trailer. In at least one embodiment, the suspension includes at least three beam structures, one beam being located beneath each respective longitudinal side frame member of the vehicle, and a third beam being located midpoint between the side frame members and which occupies substantially less space than the space between these opposing longitudinal side frame members of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 2007Date of Patent: August 3, 2010Assignee: Hendrickson USA, L.L.C.Inventor: Michael J. Keeler
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Patent number: 7744103Abstract: A junction connection is provided that is used to connect a torque transmitting junction component (2) to a hollow shaft (1). The junction component (2) includes a continuous recess which has a shape which corresponds to the outer cross-section of the hollow shaft (1) and which is used to receive the hollow shaft (1). The hollow shaft (1) includes a press stopper (8) in the connection area between the hollow shaft (1) and the junction component (2). The press stopper (8) forms, at least sectionally, a press fit with the wall of the hollow shaft (1). The junction connection enables the transmission of comparatively high torque during the entire service life thereof. The junction connection is also compatible with thin-walled, light-weight hollow shafts. The junction connection limits production costs, mounting and maintenance.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2006Date of Patent: June 29, 2010Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AGInventors: Matthias Gercke, Jens Eismann, Franz-Josef Marquardt
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Patent number: 7731202Abstract: A stabilizer is provided for a motor vehicle with two shafts (2, 3), which extend in the transverse direction of the vehicle, can be coupled with one another via a mechanical coupling (40) and are in functional connection with wheels of the motor vehicle with their ends facing away from the coupling (40). A first shaft is connected to a first coupling portion designed as a locking disk and a second shaft is connected to a second coupling portion, which cooperates with the locking disk (7) and is designed as a locking device (8).Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 2005Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AGInventors: Peter Reitz, Wolfgang Kinzelmann, Ingo Mueller, Hans-Juergen Moesch, Jens Vortmeyer, Lutz Pydde
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Patent number: 7726666Abstract: An actuator is provided for a two-part stabilizer, which builds up a spring rate in its opened position. A hydraulic absorbing unit (9) is arranged on the axle of the switchable coupling unit (8). The absorbing unit is connected to one stabilizer part (4), on the one hand, and to the other stabilizer part (5), on the other hand. The absorbing unit forms at least one pressure chamber (32) and a suction chamber (33) and assumes a blocked position in the locked position of the switchable coupling (8) and counteracts the relative twisting motion between the two stabilizer parts (4, 5) at a hydraulic spring rate in the opened position of the switchable coupling (8).Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2006Date of Patent: June 1, 2010Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AGInventors: Bernd Grannemann, Andreas Hartmann, Jens Vortmeyer, Mauro Zanella
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Patent number: 7717437Abstract: A vehicle stabilizer bar assembly having a pair of stabilizer bar members that are selectively uncoupled via a clutch. The clutch includes a plurality of engagement pins 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. A method for operating a vehicle stabilizer bar assembly is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2007Date of Patent: May 18, 2010Assignee: American Axle & Manufacturing, Inc.Inventors: Herbert L. Adams, III, Larry G. Haske
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Patent number: 7699327Abstract: The invention relates to a wheel suspension, which has at least one transverse link and one wheel carrier. The wheel carrier has a connecting element, through which a bolt extends, for connecting to the transverse link. The connecting element has a stop on a limb which is assigned to a bolt head, with the bolt head having a counterstop which corresponds to the stop.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 2007Date of Patent: April 20, 2010Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Edmund Halfmann, Jorg Weshendorff
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Publication number: 20100090432Abstract: A disconnectable link may include a first link member having a generally tubular portion, a first ball joint disposed on the first link member and adapted to engage a first suspension member; a second link member slidably receivable within the first link member; a second ball joint disposed on the second link member and adapted to engage a second suspension member; a lock shaft engaged with the second link member; and a lock element disposed within an aperture in the second link member. Movement of the lock shaft into a first position may cause the lock element to engage the first link member to prevent relative axial movement between the first and second link members, and movement of the lock shaft into a second position may cause the lock element to disengage the first link member to allow relative axial movement between the first and second link members.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 8, 2009Publication date: April 15, 2010Inventors: Kurt Hauser, Thomas E. Gansenhuber, Jeffrey L. Kincaid
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Publication number: 20100072725Abstract: The present invention relates to an actuator for generating a rotational positioning movement, wherein the actuator comprises an electric motor (1) and a reduction gear (2) which consists of two assemblies (4, 5). The first assembly (4) is formed by a gear of the harmonic, cycloid or wobble, type and the second assembly (5) by a gear of the single-step or multistep planetary or Wolfrom type, whereby both assemblies (4, 5) are so tuned to each other, that the reduction gear (2) is not self-locking.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 3, 2007Publication date: March 25, 2010Applicant: ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AGInventors: Paul Woellhaf, Roland Doerner
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Publication number: 20100052282Abstract: An anti-roll bar device of an axle of a motor vehicle. The axle has an anti-roll bar (2) and, for each wheel, at least one steering rod (1). The chassis articulation (6) of the steering rod (1) is connected with an end (3) of the anti-roll bar (2), while the compensation movement of the steering rod (1) causes a twisting actuation of the (1) anti-roll bar (2). The anti-roll bar device is distinguished by the fact that the anti-roll bar (2) is rigidly connected with the chassis side end of the steering rod (1). The anti-roll bar arrangement facilitates constructively simple and sturdy articulation of the steering rod directly on the anti-roll bar as well as on the vehicle chassis or the axle mount. Furthermore, the assembly and installation of the anti-roll bar is simplified and the required structural space, weight and cost of the anti-roll bar are improved.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 25, 2007Publication date: March 4, 2010Applicant: ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AGInventors: Benjamin Baumer, Peter Hofmann
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Publication number: 20100013173Abstract: A wheel suspension for a vehicle which includes a wheel (8) and at least one suspension arm (2) that connects the wheel (8) to the body (7) of the vehicle. The arm (2) is pivotally mounted to the body (7) by an inner part (9) of a bearing (3) such that the arm (2) pivots about an axis (6). An angle measuring device senses rotation of the arm (2) about the pivot axis (6) relative to the body (7) and includes a signal generator (25) and a sensor (18). One of the signal generator (25) and the sensor (18) is attached to an outside of the arm (2) while the other is rigidly attached, via a bracket (15), to the body (7) at a distance from the suspension arm (2).Type: ApplicationFiled: December 17, 2007Publication date: January 21, 2010Applicant: ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AGInventors: Michael Klank, Andreas Gartner
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Patent number: 7648145Abstract: The invention is a panhard bar that can alter the tracking offset while the car is in motion, and allow the driver of the car the ability to change the tracking as the driver desires, thus improving the turning ability of the car as the track condition changes. The present invention mechanically lengthens or shortens the panhard bar thus moving the axle to the left or right. This then changes the tracking of the front to rear wheels. Adjusting means are placed in reach of the driver to accomplish the change. In another embodiment the adjustment means is not controlled by the driver, but rather by a characteristic reaction of the car. The adjustments means may respond to the front wheels turning to the left or right, to deceleration forces indicating a turn on the track is approaching, and to acceleration forces indicating the straightaway of the track is approaching.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2007Date of Patent: January 19, 2010Inventors: Steve Wilson, Seth Wilson
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Patent number: 7641207Abstract: The present invention offers a front suspension and steering system for cycles and motorcycles. A mainframe with two front wheels and one rear wheel, the front wheels have flat surface tires, a 2-axial hub, having a wheel axle to support the two front wheels and a tilting axis below the wheel axle, a steering arm, having a tilting axle, the tilting axle can rotate in the tilting axis when the steering arm is tilting, the steering arm is connected to the mainframe by two wish bones and can rotate in the steeling axis. During turning, the body and the rear wheel are tilting to the side of turning to keep the center of gravity on the side of turning to balance the centrifugal force, but the front wheels and the 2-axial hub do not tilt, such that it is more stable and safe during turning.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2008Date of Patent: January 5, 2010Inventor: Wang Li Yang
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Patent number: 7624999Abstract: A supporting structure of a stabilizer to a vehicle body including a twist-deformable torsion bar having a pair of arms at respective ends thereof, the arms being connected to a suspension and a supporting device supporting the near the ends of the torsion bar on a vehicle body and having boll joints for supporting the torsion bar rotatably relative to the vehicle body.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2008Date of Patent: December 1, 2009Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Kiyoshi Nakajima
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Patent number: 7607669Abstract: A split electromechanical motor vehicle stabilizer having a locking device, and a method for roll stabilization are described. A split motor vehicle stabilizer is provided for roll stabilization, having a built-in electromechanical actuator for bracing two stabilizer parts against one another, including at least an electric motor, a gear unit, and a locking device which can lock a housing for the actuator to a rotor in the electric motor. The housing is connected to one of the stabilizer parts, and a gear unit output shaft is connected to the other stabilizer part for the purpose of transmitting torque. The housing and the rotor can be locked in only one position relative to one another after the locking device is activated, and that is the normal position for the two halves of the stabilizer in which they are not braced against one another.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2007Date of Patent: October 27, 2009Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke AktiengesellschaftInventors: Timo Anderten, Thomas Meitinger
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Publication number: 20090256326Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: April 9, 2009Publication date: October 15, 2009Applicant: Sacli Suspension, LLCInventor: Melih Sacli
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Patent number: 7588259Abstract: A reduction gear includes a rotatable carrier, a ring gear rotatably fitted in an offset supporting hole in the carrier, and first and second sun gears having first and second outer teeth meshed with first and second inner teeth of the ring gear, respectively. The rotation of the carrier is reduced in speed and outputted as relative rotation of the first and second sun gears. Thus, it is possible to secure a large reduction ratio although in a small structure having a small number of components. Also, it is possible to change the reduction ratio by a slight design change of the number of teeth in one or both of the outer teeth of the first and second sun gears, thereby improving the versatility.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2007Date of Patent: September 15, 2009Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yoshitomo Azekatsu, Takehiko Hakui, Atsushi Yuta
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Patent number: 7543832Abstract: Various embodiments of variable rate stabilizer bars are disclosed, including apparatus, vehicle, and kit implementations. Embodiments may have first and second stabilizer bar members. Each stabilizer bar member may be adapted to be operatively coupled to a respective, opposite ground-engaging element of a vehicle. Each stabilizer bar member may be configured to experience a torque about their longitudinal axis upon movement of the respective ground-engaging element relative to the vehicle when operatively coupled to the ground-engaging elements. Embodiments may have a torque transfer regulator, which may be operatively coupled to both stabilizer bar members. The torque transfer regulator may be configured to transfer a portion of the torque experienced by one of the stabilizer bar members to the other stabilizer bar member. Some embodiments may provide for active control of the degree of torque transfer from one ground-engaging element's suspension system to the other.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 2006Date of Patent: June 9, 2009Assignee: Polaris Industries Inc.Inventors: Stephen L. Nelson, Louis J. Brady, Jeffrey D. Bennett, Geoffrey G. White
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Patent number: 7530584Abstract: An adjustable anti-roll bar for a vehicle having a suspension that is moveable with respect to the vehicle chassis is disclosed, the adjustable anti-roll bar including a flexible member having a flexible member first side, a flexible member second side, a flexible member proximal end adapted to be coupled to said suspension and a flexible member distal end; a frame operably positioned on said flexible member first side; a sliding member operably positioned on said flexible member second side, said sliding member having a sliding member proximal end and a sliding member distal end, said sliding member proximal end defining a first fulcrum about which said flexible member will bend when said suspension applies force in a first direction to said flexible member proximal end; and an actuating member operably coupled to said sliding member, said actuating member operable to cause said sliding member to move with respect to said flexible member, whereby a position of said first fulcrum with respect to said flexibleType: GrantFiled: September 26, 2007Date of Patent: May 12, 2009Inventor: Danny J. Drinan
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Patent number: 7513515Abstract: A strut bar having single or multi-cross member each with downward diagonally disposed extensions terminating at a pivot point and a mounting member. The mounting members are adapted to fit directly over existing shock towers and strut towers using the studs of each respective tower. A diagonally disposed support brace is connected to the cross members and to the downward extensions according greater structural support.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 2006Date of Patent: April 7, 2009Assignee: Victor O Design, LLCInventor: Victor Ortiz
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Patent number: 7500685Abstract: A stabilizer bar assembly for an automotive vehicle includes a stabilizer bar, a bushing mounted to the stabilizer bar, and a support ring mounted onto the stabilizer bar adjacent the bushing to provide a stop to prevent the bushing from moving axially along the stabilizer bar. The support ring has a plurality of inwardly extending projections. Each of the inwardly extending projections has a distal end in contact with an outer surface of the stabilizer bar. The distal ends of the inwardly extending projections are welded to the outer surface of the stabilizer bar to secure the support ring onto the stabilizer bar.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2006Date of Patent: March 10, 2009Assignee: Automotive Components Holding, LLCInventors: Haimian Cai, Xinjian Fan, Mikhal El Arculli
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Patent number: 7500686Abstract: A chassis arrangement for a vehicle having one left stabilizer half (5) for tying to a left gear guide of an axle, one right stabilizer half (9) for tying to a right gear guide of the axle and one actuator (10) for swinging the stabilizer halves (5, 9), the actuator (10) having one housing (11) connectable or connected with the vehicle superstructure (2); one left input unit (15) for swinging the left stabilizer half (5) relative to the housing (11); one right input unit (19) for swinging the right stabilizer half (9) relative to the housing (11); and one clutch arrangement (12, 23, 33) for blocking the input units (16, 19). By adequate control of the input units (15, 19) and clutch arrangement (12, 23, 33), an active stabilizer position, a passive stabilizer position and a level regulating or pitch compensating position are adjusted by lifting the axle.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 2005Date of Patent: March 10, 2009Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AGInventor: Martin Münster
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Patent number: 7494132Abstract: A roll control actuator for a stabilizer bar includes an outer housing that is fixed to a first bar portion and a shaft that is fixed to a second bar portion. The shaft is helically connected to a piston that is received within an interior chamber formed inside the outer housing. The piston separates the interior chamber into first and second fluid chambers. An anti-rotation mechanism is fixed to the outer housing and cooperates with the piston to restrict the piston to axial movement relative to the outer housing. The first and second fluid chambers are selectively pressurized to control roll stiffness by moving the piston within the outer housing.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 2005Date of Patent: February 24, 2009Assignee: ArvinMeritor Technology, LLCInventor: Eric A. Smay
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Publication number: 20090020974Abstract: There is provided a torsion beam of a vehicle suspension in which a upper portion and the lower portion of the torsion beam are bent in the front-to-rear direction alone of the vehicle along the longitudinal axis of the torsion beam, and a pair of tails is rounded at both front and rear ends of the torsion beam of the vehicle and formed different from each other in size, a rear tail of the pair of tails which is formed at the rear portion of the vehicle is larger than a front tail formed in the front portion of the torsion beam, the upper and lower portions of the torsion beam are gradually apart from each other with at least two predetermined slopes as they goes from the middle portion to both distal end of the torsion beam. Therefore, roll stiffness is increased and durability is improved.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 9, 2008Publication date: January 22, 2009Inventor: Jae Youn Lee
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Patent number: 7469913Abstract: The invention is directed to vehicle suspension systems and components thereof including attachment devices for mounting an axle alignment and/or load reacting mechanism to an axle. Disclosed herein are axle towers used for connecting a torque box to an axle. The axle tower of the present invention can include one or more features to absorb and disperse loads to the axle. The axle tower has a more contoured or curved edge on the side plate that experiences a compressive force than a similar edge on the side plate that experiences a tensile force. Furthermore, the axle tower has appendages that extend out from the side plates providing a large footprint on the axle housing. At least one of the appendages extending from the side plate experiencing a compressive force has a curved or radiused corner. Also, the axle towers include an inner plate having an off-centered slot where the troque box connects.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2006Date of Patent: December 30, 2008Assignee: Hendrickson USA, L.L.C.Inventors: Nathan Michael Leden, Richard Steven Holum, Richard Gregory Vogler, Michael Brannigan, Ashley Thomas Dudding
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Patent number: 7464948Abstract: A distributed compliance air-ride axle/suspension system includes an integral structure preferably formed of a lightweight composite material, replacing traditional beams and an axle. The composite structure includes a plurality of plates of various sizes and shapes, with the size, shape and arrangement of the plates being determined by the load capacity model of a specific vehicle application. Traditional axle spindle ends are mounted on the integral plate structure, together with pivot bushings, air springs, and shock absorbers, to complete the air-ride axle/suspension system. The system in turn is pivotally mounted on frame brackets of a heavy-duty vehicle such as a semi-trailer or dump truck. Forces, loads and/or stresses imposed on the axle/suspension system during vehicle operation are distributed generally throughout the composite structure to achieve the desired structural roll compliance of the axle/suspension system for the particular application.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2004Date of Patent: December 16, 2008Assignee: Hendrickson USA, L.L.C.Inventor: John Edward Ramsey
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Patent number: 7448635Abstract: A recreational vehicle includes a vehicle frame, a pair of left and right arms attached to the vehicle frame and extending from the left and right sides of the vehicle frame, a pair of left and right ground contacting parts respectively attached to the pair of left and right arms, and a stabilizer bar for correcting a torsion on the pair of left and right ground contacting parts. The stabilizer bar is provided with a support member capable of changing a position at which the stabilizer bar is supported.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2006Date of Patent: November 11, 2008Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Masanori Yoshihara, Kiyoteru Suzuki
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Publication number: 20080211202Abstract: A stabilizer link assembly formed by die casting end rings over the ends of a stabilizer link rod.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 23, 2005Publication date: September 4, 2008Inventors: John Belding, Greg Dambois, Daniel Dearing, Jeremy R. King, Keith Kinney, Mark Kittridge, Brian Perkins
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Patent number: 7419173Abstract: A supporting structure of a stabilizer to a vehicle body including a twist-deformable torsion bar having a pair of arms at respective ends thereof, the arms being connected to a suspension and a supporting device supporting the near the ends of the torsion bar on a vehicle body and having ball joints for supporting the torsion bar rotatably relative to the vehicle body.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2004Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Kiyoshi Nakajima
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Patent number: 7413196Abstract: A stabilizer assembly unit having a first stabilizer and a sun gearwheel connected non-rotatably to one end of the stabilizer includes at least one rotary drive acting on a planetary gearwheel which meshes with the sun gearwheel. For a vehicle axle having at least two wheels, a separate stabilizer assembly unit according to any of the preceding claims may be provided for each of the wheels. In a chassis assembly unit for a vehicle having a body and a stabilizer assembly unit, the internally geared wheel is connected non-rotatably to the vehicle body.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 2005Date of Patent: August 19, 2008Assignee: TRW Automotive GmbHInventor: Axel Borowski
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Publication number: 20080191430Abstract: An actuator is provided for a two-part stabilizer, which builds up a spring rate in its opened position. A hydraulic absorbing unit (9) is arranged on the axle of the switchable coupling unit (8). The absorbing unit is connected to one stabilizer part (4), on the one hand, and to the other stabilizer part (5), on the other hand. The absorbing unit forms at least one pressure chamber (32) and a suction chamber (33) and assumes a blocked position in the locked position of the switchable coupling (8) and counteracts the relative twisting motion between the two stabilizer parts (4, 5) at a hydraulic spring rate in the opened position of the switchable coupling (8).Type: ApplicationFiled: March 20, 2006Publication date: August 14, 2008Inventors: Bernd Grannemann, Andreas Hartmann, Jens Vortmeyer, Mauro Zanella
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Publication number: 20080174087Abstract: A stabilizer includes a base and a shaft rotatively mounted to the base. An arm attached to the shaft is able to swing about the axis of rotation defined by the shaft in response to centrifugal force. In one possible application, the stabilizer can be incorporated into a vehicle. The vehicle includes a first frame and a second frame pivotally connected to the first frame, wherein the frames pivot with respect to one another about an axis of rotation. The second frame includes an outwardly extending support arm having a seat mounted thereon. The arm swings in response to centrifugal force so as to laterally displace the seat relative to the first frame. In one aspect, the seat is located below the axis of rotation.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 19, 2007Publication date: July 24, 2008Inventor: Mark S. Cowperthwaite
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Patent number: 7390000Abstract: The present invention provides a lateral link for suspension systems wherein the distance between opposite ends of the lateral link increases in a tight or sudden turn, so as to enhance controllability, stability, and riding comfort of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2005Date of Patent: June 24, 2008Assignee: Kia Motors CorporationInventor: Cheol-Woo Lee
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Patent number: 7377529Abstract: An actuator assembly for an active chassis of a motor vehicle that includes an actuator is disclosed. The actuator includes a first rack and a second rack, and a drive pinion that is in operative engagement with the first and second racks. Substantially linear movement of the first and second racks in opposite directions causes rotational movement of the drive pinion. The assembly also includes a locking mechanism wherein the locking mechanism prevents rotation of the drive pinion and linear movement of the racks.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2004Date of Patent: May 27, 2008Assignee: TRW Automotive U.S. LLCInventor: Steve J. Green
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Publication number: 20080106056Abstract: A stabilizer bar for a vehicle suspension includes a sleeve that is heat shrunk around the stabilizer bar. The sleeve is made from a low-friction polymer or thermoplastic material and is first installed on the stabilizer bar in a pre-shrunken state. Heat is subsequently applied to the sleeve to shrink and fix the sleeve to the stabilizer bar. A bushing is then mounted on the sleeve.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 7, 2006Publication date: May 8, 2008Inventor: Mark Allen Kleckner
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Publication number: 20080100019Abstract: The present invention relates to an active, divided stabilizer for of motor vehicle having an installed electric pivot motor for roll regulation, which comprises at least one actuating drive made of electric motor and pivot motor transmission and a housing, at least one housing part being connected to an associated stabilizer part for torque transmission. The present invention is distinguished in that the housing part has an axially oriented, central recess, into which the stabilizer part extends essentially up to its end, and the connection for torque transmission between the housing part and the associated stabilizer part is located there.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 31, 2007Publication date: May 1, 2008Applicant: Bayerische Motoren Werke AktiengesellschaftInventor: Reinhard SIMKOVICS
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Publication number: 20080036166Abstract: A stabilizer bar includes a sleeve and bushing that are used to mount the stabilizer bar to a vehicle structure. The sleeve is comprised of a plastic material and includes a locking mechanism for locking the sleeve to the stabilizer bar. The bushing is comprised of a resilient material and is mounted to an external surface of the sleeve. Once the sleeve is locked onto the stabilizer bar, lateral movement between the bushing and the stabilizer bar is prohibited. Further, frictional reaction of the bushing occurs between plastic and rubber materials, which results in reduced noise during suspension loading.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 14, 2006Publication date: February 14, 2008Inventors: Jonathan Russell, Brian Allen Irwin
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Patent number: 7328909Abstract: A structure of removably mounting a tower connecting bar between top surfaces of right and left strut towers by bolts and nuts. The tower connecting bar has a pipe and annular circular plates attached to opposite ends of the pipe. The circular plates are mounted to the top surfaces of the towers by the bolts and nuts. Upper ends of suspension struts are fastened to the top surfaces of the towers by bolts and nuts. The circular plates have through holes for allowing the strut-mounting nuts to escape when the towers and circular plates are mated together. The through holes provide access to loosen the strut-mounting nuts.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 2005Date of Patent: February 12, 2008Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Taku Takayanagi, Takeshi Yamaguchi
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Publication number: 20080023929Abstract: A track bar for a rear suspension of a vehicle has a first tubular member, an energy dissipating member wrapped around the first tubular member, and a second tubular member encompassing the energy dissipating member. Together, the tubular members and energy dissipating member dampen vibration transmitted through the track bar to lessen the audible vibrations that rear the interior of a vehicle cabin.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 28, 2006Publication date: January 31, 2008Inventors: Daniel R Ryberg, Hamid Mir
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Publication number: 20080023930Abstract: A dynamic handling system hose for use in a vehicle anti-rollover system, wherein the dynamic handling system hose comprises: a tubular body comprising a polymeric material exhibiting (1) zero or near zero expansion coefficient, (2) sufficient flexibility to withstand rough terrain, (3) high tensile strength, (4) low elongation, (5) high tolerance to extreme temperature ranges, (6) high resistance to hydrocarbon fluids, and (7) relatively low weight compared to conventionally used hose materials in anti-rollover systems; a reinforcement around the tubular body; and a protective cover surrounding the tubular body and the reinforcement, and a coupler for coupling the dynamic handling system hose to an appropriate actuator in a vehicle anti-rollover system are described.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 27, 2006Publication date: January 31, 2008Inventors: Karen M. Anthon, Terence E. Skiba, Robert Williamson
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Patent number: 7322589Abstract: A stabilizer assembly for a motor vehicle, including a first stabilizer and a second stabilizer, which are rotatable relative to each other, is characterized in that each stabilizer is engaged by one linear actuator each.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2004Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: TRW Automotive GmbHInventors: Dirk Kesselgruber, Martin Boecker