Longitudinal Pivot Axis (i.e., Rocking Axle) Patents (Class 280/124.111)
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Patent number: 7722063Abstract: A suspension system for a tilting vehicular chassis based on more than three wheels separates a tilting component of the chassis from a non-tilting component. The non-tilting component provides a means for powering the vehicle with automotive-type engine and drive train options, while the tilting component provides the turning stability necessary for a narrower wheel base. The narrower wheel base benefits fuel economy. The multiplicity of wheels, and the breadth of platform thus enabled, permits shelter and comfort features for the occupant not otherwise available on a typical two-wheel chassis.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 2009Date of Patent: May 25, 2010Inventor: David Douglas Dieziger
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Publication number: 20100104408Abstract: A trailer for transporting a freight container is comprised of a frame having a front frame section which is adapted to be coupled to a suitable road vehicle. A pair of displaceable horizontal side beams are secured to the front frame section and are provided with a hingeable rear gate formed by a pair of hinge arms. Each of the side beams has a suspension assembly to support a tandem wheel arrangement. Retractable vertical lifting piston cylinders are secured to a portion of the front frame and to the pair of hinge arms and are actuable to lift the pair of horizontal side beams and its wheels above a ground surface. Laterally extendable piston cylinders are also secured to the front frame and the hinge arms to displace the horizontal side beams outwardly and inwardly with respect to one another when lifted off the ground surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 28, 2008Publication date: April 29, 2010Inventor: Joel GAUDET
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Patent number: 7703781Abstract: A low profile chassis and suspension system for a road vehicle. The chassis supports a payload section or cargo compartment, such as for a delivery truck, ambulance, or shuttle bus. The chassis includes a largely planar frame having a top surface which is located beneath the rotational axes of the rear wheels. The wheel suspension system is particularly compact and close to the road surface. In some embodiments each wheel is suspended from the vehicle by a pair of pivotal support arms. Preferably, one arm is located above the other arm, and both arms pivot along pivot axes that are generally perpendicular to the rotational axis of the supported wheel. A spring urges one of the arms apart from the frame. In other embodiments, the spring is placed beneath the rotational axis of the wheel. In some embodiments both of the pivoting support arms are located beneath the rotational axis of the wheel.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2008Date of Patent: April 27, 2010Assignee: Aloha, LLCInventors: Earl Dallas Smith, Judson Smith
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Patent number: 7673890Abstract: A joint structure for an independent system designed to improve the maintenance performance of a rear wheel suspension. Rear wheel axles extend leftward and rearward from a final case supported by the rear portion of a body frame to independently suspend respective left and right rear wheels. The respective rear wheel axles are coupled to left-hand and right-hand joints on the left and right sides, respectively, of the final case. A driven sprocket engaging with a chain is attached to the left-hand joint and a separate holder is detachably attached to the front of the final case. A joint-part shaft of the right-hand joint is supported by the final case via a bearing and also a brake disk is attached thereto. A male-shaped joint-part shaft integrally extending from the left-hand joint is fitted into the female-shaped joint-part shaft for integrally rotatable coupling.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2006Date of Patent: March 9, 2010Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Bunzo Seki
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Patent number: 7665749Abstract: A suspension system for a vehicle is provided that allows for the vehicle body to be tilted wherein the tilt is controlled by the operator's legs in a manner that greatly enhances the stability of the vehicle while producing a fun vehicle to operate. Further, the bottom member of the suspension system is structured in a manner that provides storage capacity for installation of heavy items such as battery banks in order to preserve a lowered center of gravity for the vehicle. The tilting suspension may be used in the context of three-wheeled vehicle having a single rear drive tire and two forward wheels, but apply equally to a four wheeled vehicle as well as to water craft operating on pontoons or snow vehicles operating on skis.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2008Date of Patent: February 23, 2010Inventor: Joseph Wilcox
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Patent number: 7665750Abstract: A trunnion air ride suspension system. In one example, a trunnion suspension system includes a trunnion beam pivotably mounted to a hanger bracket, and an axle pivotably mounted to the trunnion beam. A brake actuator is secured to the axle and pivotably mounted to the trunnion beam, so that the brake actuator pivots with the axle relative to the trunnion beam. In another example, a trunnion suspension system includes a trunnion beam pivotably mounted to a hanger bracket, the trunnion beam having a longitudinally extending cylindrical portion positioned between two generally vertical plate portions. An axle is pivotably mounted to the cylindrical portion by a bushed connection, the bushed connection being retained longitudinally between the plate portions.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2005Date of Patent: February 23, 2010Assignee: Watson & Chalin Maufacturing, Inc.Inventor: Gregory Jordan
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Publication number: 20100025953Abstract: A rigid axle for a commercial vehicle having individual first and second suspension struts (1, 2) which define a triangle in a common plane. Each end of these struts have a joint (3, 4, 5, 6) to connect one end of the struts to the automotive body (7) and the other end of the struts to the vehicle axle (8). The end of the struts that is connected to the axle receives an axial pin (9) for connecting the suspension struts (1, 2) to the vehicle axle (8).Type: ApplicationFiled: February 4, 2008Publication date: February 4, 2010Applicant: ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AGInventors: Manfred Buhl, Soren Knopp, Friedheim Langhorst
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Publication number: 20100007110Abstract: A linkage-type air suspension system for supporting either a front steer axle or a rear drive axle includes a lower structure assembly which combines the lower control rods, a transverse rod and a stabilizer control system which functions as a single structure. The transverse control system includes a pair of lower beams which have one end thereof pivotally connected to mounting brackets secured to the frame members of the vehicle by pivot bearings. The other ends of the lower beams are pivotally connected to axle and wheel supports. A transverse control is secured to and extends between the lower beams.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 14, 2008Publication date: January 14, 2010Inventor: Tjong T. Lie
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Publication number: 20090212523Abstract: A wheel suspension arm comprises a link opening (12) for pivotably securing the wheel suspension arm to a vehicle frame and an axle opening (11) for securing an axle element (2) to the wheel suspension arm. A peripheral edge (11a) of the axle opening includes at least one discontinuation, such as a slot (13). A screw (17) can be tightened to clamp the axle element (2) in the axle opening (11). The invention also relates to a method for producing the inventive wheel suspension arm and to a wheel suspension comprising said wheel suspension arm.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 9, 2006Publication date: August 27, 2009Inventor: Hubert B. Koschinat
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Publication number: 20090194962Abstract: A pivot assembly for a tandem suspension is provided which includes a balancer and an elastomeric assembly operable to allow the balancer to rotate about a vehicle chassis. In addition, an elastomeric assembly for a suspension system is provided which includes an elastomeric element provided with a slot for allowing a deformation in response to a tension load imparted by a balancer, and a groove for preventing bulging in response to a compression load imparted by the balancer. A balancer for a vehicle suspension is also provided which includes first and second plates, an open area formed between the plates, an engaging member provided within the open area and first and second pins which define an axis of rotation about which the balancer is rotatable. A kit for the pivot assembly is also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 28, 2008Publication date: August 6, 2009Applicant: SIMARD SUSPENSIONS INC.Inventors: Andre-Marie Simard, Rejean Lavoie, Nelson Cote
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Patent number: 7562887Abstract: A caster suspension system for a multi-axle transport vehicle for moving heavy loads includes two fluid activated cylinders and two spaced apart arms for each wheel and axle set which allow the transport vehicle to be raised and lowered with respect to the roadway. The suspension system mechanically stabilizes the axles with respect to the transport vehicle thereby reducing axle yaw and allowing higher transport speeds. As the transport vehicle moves, the suspension system casters into alignment with the direction of travel.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2005Date of Patent: July 21, 2009Assignee: American Heavy Moving and Rigging, Inc.Inventors: Earl Sutton, James R. McGhie
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Publication number: 20090085319Abstract: A progressive rear suspension linkage is used in the rear suspension of an ATV to aid in ride quality and safety by changing leverage ratio thru the travel of the rear suspension. The rear shock attaches to it as well as to the frame. The linkage system attaches to the frame at one end and to the rear suspension arm at the other end and changes leverage as the mounting point on the frame and the rear suspension arm come closer together or further apart as the rear suspension arms moves thru its travel. This in turn lets some linkages move in a scissors type movement with the rear shock bolted to it at a given point. This invention provides an improvement to the OEM designs, making for improved handling and safer control of ATVs.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 15, 2008Publication date: April 2, 2009Inventor: Lazarus Sommers
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Patent number: 7467802Abstract: A structure for enabling independently suspended wheels to lean with vehicle hull, which comprises a linkage mechanism and two suspending mechanisms.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2006Date of Patent: December 23, 2008Assignee: Industrial Technology Research InstituteInventors: Yu-Yin Peng, Wen-Shu Jiaung, Cheng-Ho Li
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Patent number: 7464955Abstract: Method and arrangement including a vehicle having a first and a second vehicle section connected to an articulation that allows rotation about a vehicle longitudinal axis of the vehicle. A positioning arrangement is included that has at least one adjusting device in which the positioning arrangement includes operation by at least one adjusting device in order to rotate the first and second vehicle sections into a predefined basic position in relation to one another.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2003Date of Patent: December 16, 2008Assignee: Volvo Construction Equipment ABInventors: Jörgen Ahlberg, Ivar Aaboen, Rickard Nilsson, Lena Larsson
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Patent number: 7451993Abstract: A steerable chassis for work vehicle, having a coupling with a hinge that has a vertical axis in order to act as a steering system and an articulation that has a horizontal axis in order to ensure greater freedom of torsional oscillation of that chassis. The chassis has a device for locking the articulation, as selected by the operator, in order to increase the torsional rigidity of the chassis when required.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2004Date of Patent: November 18, 2008Assignee: C.S.F. S.R.L.Inventor: Stefano Zanini
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Publication number: 20080231011Abstract: An active suspension system for a rigid beam tractor axle in which the axle is connected to the chassis by two orthogonally oriented pivot points and axle movement is controlled by double-acting suspension actuators managed by a control system to improve the ride and handling characterstics of the tractor.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 22, 2007Publication date: September 25, 2008Inventors: Giorgio Bordini, David T. Rach, Loreto Panettone, Brian E. Felsing
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Patent number: 7425005Abstract: A low profile chassis and suspension system for a road vehicle. The chassis supports a payload section or cargo compartment, such as for a delivery truck, ambulance, or shuttle bus. The chassis includes a largely planar frame having a top surface which is located beneath the rotational axes of the rear wheels. The wheel suspension system is particularly compact and close to the road surface. In some embodiments each wheel is suspended from the vehicle by a pair of pivotal support arms. Preferably, one arm is located above the other arm, and both arms pivot along pivot axes that are generally perpendicular to the rotational axis of the supported wheel. A spring urges one of the arms apart from the frame. In other embodiments, the spring is placed beneath the rotational axis of the wheel. In some embodiments both of the pivoting support arms are located beneath the rotational axis of the wheel.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2006Date of Patent: September 16, 2008Assignee: Aloha, LLCInventors: Earl Dallas Smith, Judson Smith
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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: 7380892Abstract: A tread assembly has front and rear main idler wheels supported by a frame. A continuous tread is provided around the idler wheels for supporting a cart on a bottom portion of the tread between the front and rear main idler wheels. An assembly is provided to permit the front idler wheels to pivot laterally as the cart encounters uneven ground, in order to improve weight distribution across the tread and the idler wheels. The rear idler wheel also has an assembly to permit the rear idler wheel to pivot laterally. An alignment feature is incorporated into the front idler wheel assembly to permit adjustment of the alignment of the front idler wheel relative to the rear idler wheel. A tensioning mechanism is provided at the rear idler wheel to maintain the tread in tension. A pivot is provided between the frame and the rear idler wheel, and located forward from the hub of the idler wheel, such that increased load on the frame tends to push the idler wheel rearward to further tension the tread.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2004Date of Patent: June 3, 2008Inventor: Lyn Rosenboom
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Patent number: 7213824Abstract: A suspension system for a multi-axle transport vehicle for moving heavy loads includes two fluid activated cylinders and two spaced apart arms for each wheel and axle set which allow the transport vehicle to be raised and lowered with respect to the roadway. The suspension system mechanically stabilizes the axles with respect to the transport vehicle thereby reducing axle yaw and allowing higher transport speeds.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2005Date of Patent: May 8, 2007Assignee: American Heavy Moving & Rigging, Inc.Inventor: James R. McGhie
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Publication number: 20070090621Abstract: A suspension includes a longitudinal pivot axle coupled to a vehicle frame. First and second A-arms are rotationally coupled to and extend outwardly from the pivot axle. Third and fourth arms are rotationally coupled to and outwardly extending from the vehicle frame at first and second mounting positions, respectively. The first and third arms are configured to be distally coupled to a first wheel. The second and fourth arms are configured to be distally coupled to a second wheel. In one particular embodiment, the suspension further includes a tie-rod steering assembly. The tie-rod steering assembly is rotationally coupled to the vehicle frame at a third mounting position, and distally coupled to the first wheel. In another particular embodiment, the suspension includes at least one lower spacer, the at least one lower spacer adapted to be positioned on the pivot axis and to provide caster adjustment of any of the first and second arms.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 20, 2005Publication date: April 26, 2007Inventor: David Vigen
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Publication number: 20070090620Abstract: A rear suspension structure for large vehicles increases durability of a bump stopper and an air spring, thus markedly enhancing the riding comfort and handling ability of a vehicle. Furthermore, the amount of air to be drawn into and discharged from the air spring is increased, so that stable handling ability of the vehicle is ensured, thus markedly enhancing traveling stability of the vehicle. As well, the present invention ensures the lateral rigidity of a rear axle and prevents deflection of the vehicle when traveling.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 14, 2005Publication date: April 26, 2007Inventor: Kyong-Sup Lee
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Patent number: 7207408Abstract: A three-wheeled motor vehicle includes a through coupling situated between right and left internal shafts and rear wheels, each via a drive shaft. The axial lines of right and left internal shafts are both intersected with a straight line as a rocking axis. If the right and left internal shafts are placed away from each other in the front and rear of the vehicle body, the drive shaft can be placed extensively in the diagonal direction from the right and left internal shafts to the rear wheel side. Using the described structure, the total length of the drive shaft can be increased. In consideration thereof, the bending angle of the drive shaft can be minimized when the rear drive wheels move in the vertical direction, and the track of the rear wheels can be reduced because the drive shaft is placed extensively in the diagonal direction.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2004Date of Patent: April 24, 2007Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Masahiro Kuroki, Shinji Takayanagi
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Patent number: 7204499Abstract: An axle supporting structure for supporting an axle beam for an industrial vehicle includes a center pin, a pair of axle supporting units and a counterweight. The center pin protrudes from the axle beam. Each axle supporting unit has formed therethrough an insertion hole in which the center pin is inserted. The axle supporting unit has an upper axle supporting member and a lower axle supporting member which is detachably connected to the upper axle supporting member. The pair of axle supporting units is spaced from each other in a traveling direction of the vehicle. The center pin is rotatably supported between the pair of axle supporting units. The upper axle supporting members of the axle supporting units are cast in the counterweight.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2004Date of Patent: April 17, 2007Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toyota JidoshokkiInventors: Takahito Miyake, Hiroshi Kobayashi, Shuo Uematsu, Tomomichi Miura, Kenichi Katae
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Publication number: 20070035099Abstract: A swinging device for a wheel set includes a center tube, an axle pipe and a restrictor. The center tube has round plates at the rear section. The round plates comprise lugs thereon. The axle pipe has a curved receiving base with a pair of fins extending from respective sides of the receiving base. The fins comprise through holes for insertion of bolts. The restrictor is pivotally connected to the rear section of the center tube and comprises ditches corresponding in position to the round plates of the center tube, so that the lugs of the round plates may be placed therein and slide along the ditches. The restrictor further comprises through holes corresponding in position to the through holes of the receiving base and the bolts. An elastic piece made of plastic material is placed between the rear section of the center tube and the axle pipe.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 9, 2005Publication date: February 15, 2007Inventor: Ting-Hsing Chen
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Patent number: 7168716Abstract: A swing mechanism of a steering axle in a three-wheeled industrial vehicle has a steering axle, a pair of steerable wheels, a steering shaft, a center pin and a holder. The steerable wheels are supported on both sides of the steering axle. The steering shaft is connected to the steering axle for rotating the steering axle in a steered direction and is synchronously rotated with a steering wheel of the vehicle. The center pin is arranged at a lower end of the steering shaft in a longitudinal direction of the vehicle. The holder is formed on the steering axle and is coupled to the center pin so as to be swingable.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2004Date of Patent: January 30, 2007Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toyota JidoshokkiInventors: Seigo Shimizu, Fumihiro Fukatsu
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Publication number: 20070018418Abstract: An electric wheelchair frame includes a seat brace, a pair of connection rods, a pair of front suspension brackets, a pair of rear suspension brackets, and a pair of resilient members. A front section of either side of the seat brace is pivotally connected to the front suspension bracket. A rear section of either side of the seat brace is pivotally connected to the rear suspension bracket. A rear end of the front suspension bracket and a front end of the rear suspension bracket are pivotally connected to the connection rod, respectively. The resilient member has one end connected to the connection rod and another end connected to the rear suspension bracket.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 25, 2005Publication date: January 25, 2007Inventor: Shao-Shih Huang
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Patent number: 7144022Abstract: A front suspension for a tractor has an axle that is pivotally coupled to an axle carrier to pivot about a substantially longitudinal axis. The axle carrier, in turn, is pivotally coupled to the chassis of the vehicle to pivot about a generally vertical axis. The front end of the axle carrier is supported by a counter frame that prevents the axle carrier from twisting about a longitudinal axis. The counter frame is pivotally coupled to the chassis of the tractor to pivot about a generally lateral and horizontal axis. Both the axle carrier and the counter frame are constrained to pivot about the common horizontal and lateral axis with respect to the chassis of the tractor. Springs are coupled between the counter frame and the chassis of the tractor to control the pivoting of the counter frame with respect to the tractor and provide shock absorbing for the front suspension.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 2004Date of Patent: December 5, 2006Assignee: CNH America LLCInventor: Giorgio Bordini
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Patent number: 7131651Abstract: A chassis is described which is constructed of two lower side frames which at each end are provided with a wheel or caterpillar track. On each of the two lower side members, there is a horizontal bearing. Each of these bearings are connected to an upper vertical side member which at their upper end is connected to two parallel cross members through horizontal bearings for the development of a parallelogram connection. Between the lower and upper side members, there are two double-acting hydraulic cylinders. These can be connected in parallel in order to make a weight distribution possible. By means of a regulation valve between pressure side and suction side, respectively, on the double-acting hydraulic cylinders the upper part of the chassis can swing back and forth in the longitudinal direction of the side members.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2002Date of Patent: November 7, 2006Inventor: Niels Kjaer Laursen
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Publication number: 20060220335Abstract: The invention concerns a method and a device for the adjustment of wheel camber in commercial vehicles, particularly wheeled construction plant used for earthworks, particularly on uneven ground. The camber angle is set inventively and automatically, by means of a camber cylinder and a wheel pivot unit, as a function of at least one of the driving parameters. For this purpose, the driving parameters, e.g. the axle swing angle, the steering lock angle, the lateral force on the vehicle wheels on the front axle and the absolute inclination of the construction plant are detected by sensors, the output signals of which are fed to an electronic control unit as input parameters. The camber angle sets itself as a function of the setting signal from the electronic control unit by means of a camber cylinder and a wheel pivot unit, in accordance with specified control strategies. As well as the self-setting wheel camber adjustment system, the camber cylinder is embodied so that it can still be operated manually.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 23, 2004Publication date: October 5, 2006Inventor: Jurgen Damm
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Publication number: 20060208444Abstract: An axle beam suspension system for a mobile vehicle, the system includes a main vehicle body, an axle attached to the main vehicle body, a control bar, and a track bar. The track bar includes a controlling connection portion. A first end of the track bar is attached at a lateral attachment to a lateral joint connection portion of the main vehicle body. A second end of the track bar is attached at a pivot attachment to a pivot joint portion on the axle. The control bar has a first end attached at a control attachment to a control joint connection portion of the main vehicle body and a second end attached at a fourth attachment to the controlling connection portion of the track bar. A lateral portion of an axle-pivoting-movement is transferred into lateral movement of the axle beam suspension system.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 17, 2005Publication date: September 21, 2006Inventors: James Johnson, Alexandre Opeiko, Ronald Williams, Mohamed Abbadi
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Patent number: 7090234Abstract: In a three-wheel vehicle, right and left suspension arms are independently attached to a front swinging shaft and a rear swinging shaft so that the suspension arms can swing vertically, and the front swinging shaft and the rear swinging shaft function as a swinging shaft for swinging the body frame. A swinging mechanism is provided to restrict lateral rotation of the body frame.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2003Date of Patent: August 15, 2006Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Shinji Takayanagi, Yohei Makuta, Hiroyoshi Kobayashi
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Publication number: 20060175789Abstract: A supplemental suspension system for a vehicle having a rear axle and a leaf spring suspension system including a pair of leaf springs mounted over respective ends of the rear axle, the supplemental suspension system including a lower support member which is positioned above the rear axle, which extends between respective leaf springs of the pair of leaf springs, and which is fixedly mounted to respective leaf springs of the pair of leaf springs; and a plurality of spring assemblies which are mounted above the rear axle, each spring assembly of the plurality of spring assemblies being composed of, in combination, a coil spring and an air spring arranged around a common central axis and attached by a retainer, wherein the plurality of spring assemblies are supported by the lower support member.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 8, 2006Publication date: August 10, 2006Inventors: Vernon Mullican, Raymond Rawn
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Patent number: 7070244Abstract: This invention is road milling machine with a chassis (13) having at least four wheels of which the front four wheels (14) are assigned to a parallelogram steering axle (23). The parallelogram steering axle (23) guides the front wheels (14) such that their wheel axles (48) remain in constant horizontal alignment even when the front wheels (14) run at different heights.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2003Date of Patent: July 4, 2006Assignee: Metso Dynapac GmbHInventors: Stefan Fischer, Gerold Wöbken
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Patent number: 7000724Abstract: A skid steer vehicle has a suspension that includes two bogies pivotally connected to the sides of the vehicle and extending fore-and-aft along each side of the vehicle. The bogies are pivotally connected to the vehicle in the middle and have a wheel mounted at each end. A hydraulic motor is coupled to each of the bogies and drives the two wheels on each bogie.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2003Date of Patent: February 21, 2006Assignee: CNH America LLCInventors: Anthony J. Lamela, Brian E. Felsing, Troy D. Bateman
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Patent number: 6976687Abstract: A cambering vehicle includes a single steerable front wheel and a pair of rear wheels at the rearward ends of trailing arms extending from the front structure. The two arms are articulated to the front structure, and move arcuately in planes parallel to the steering column. In one embodiment the arms are linked by a yoke, and traverse equal arcuate distances in opposite directions relative to one another. In another embodiment the yoke is replaced by a transverse link, with elastomer bushings connecting the link ends to their respective arms. The vehicle operates using the principle of conservation of angular momentum, with the vehicle traveling a sinusoidal path and the operator leaning to the inside of the turn. This moves the center of gravity of the vehicle and operator to the inside of the turn, thus accelerating vehicle and operator along the turning path to increase velocity of the device.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2004Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: Trikke Tech, Inc.Inventor: J. Gildo Beleski, Jr.
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Publication number: 20050248115Abstract: An arrangement for the suspension of wheels of a working machine moving on a terrain, the arrangement comprising a pair of adjacent wheels arranged to support a frame part placed on a center line between the wheels; suspensions arranged between each wheel and the frame part to elevate and descend each wheel with respect to the frame part, wherein each suspension comprises a lower suspension arm and an upper suspension arm, which lower suspension arms are mounted by means of first joints to the frame part and by means of second joints to mounting arms, in which the wheels are mounted in a rotatable manner, and which upper suspension arms are fixed by means of third joints to the frame part and by means of fourth joints to the mounting arms, wherein, in each suspension, the first joint and/or the third joint is placed on said center line.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 27, 2005Publication date: November 10, 2005Inventors: Arto Huhmarkangas, Markku Jaatinen, Sami Arola, Arto Vento, Jouko Hyytiäinen
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Patent number: 6959935Abstract: A steering triangle (1) is provided for the axle suspension of motor vehicles for the articulated connection of a vehicle axle with a vehicle chassis with two control arms (2, 3). The control arms are connected to each other in a joint housing (6) formed by the control arms (2, 3) together for a rubber-metal bearing (11) for fixing the steering triangle (1) on the vehicle axle. The rubber-metal bearing (11) has a pivot axis (12) provided with a spherical surface and an elastomer body (14), which extends around the pivot axis (12) at least in the area of the spherical surface and which is accommodated in a recess (16) located within the joint housing (6), in which steering triangle two pressing rings (17, 18) are arranged within the recess (16) of the joint housing (6) on the axial outer sides of the elastomer body (14). The pressing rings can be moved toward each other by a tensioning device via the intermediary of stop faces (22) of the joint housing (6).Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 2004Date of Patent: November 1, 2005Assignee: ZF Lemförder Metallwaren AGInventors: Reinhard Buhl, Reinhard Richter, Uwe Cossmann, Ralf Kunze, Holger Bublies, Sören Knopp
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Patent number: 6959936Abstract: A vehicle suspension system couples an axle to a vehicle frame so that the axle pivots about a first location with respect to the frame when the axle has a first range of articulation. The axle pivots about a second location with respect to the frame extending laterally out from the first location when the axle has a second range of articulation greater than the first range of articulation. When the axle exceeds the second range of articulation, the suspension system retains the axle in a substantially rigid contact with the vehicle frame.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2002Date of Patent: November 1, 2005Assignee: NMHG Oregon, Inc.Inventors: Clyde C. Anderson, Roger C. Nelson
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Patent number: 6942232Abstract: A suspension system for a multi-axle transport vehicle for moving heavy loads includes two fluid activated cylinders and two spaced apart arms for each wheel and axle set which allow the transport vehicle to be raised and lowered with respect to the roadway. The suspension system mechanically stabilizes the axles with respect to the transport vehicle thereby reducing axle yaw and allowing higher transport speeds.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 2003Date of Patent: September 13, 2005Assignee: American Heavy Moving & Rigging Inc.Inventor: James R. McGhie
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Patent number: 6923460Abstract: A split-frame, heavy truck, suspension system for trucks that haul trailers made of three moveable interlocked rigid frames referred to as the front frame, rear frame, and interconnecting frame. The front frame supports the cab, engine, and transmission. The rear primary frame supports the drive axle and fifth wheel. The rear end of the interconnecting frame is pivotally mounted to the rear frame whereby the rear frame may rotate about a transverse axis. The front end of the interconnecting frame is mounted to the front frame in a manner that permits the interconnecting frame to rotate and pivot along its longitudinal axis relative to the front frame. Hydraulic cylinders are used to dampen vibrations and oscillations within this split-frame structure. An alternative embodiment allows the front frame to connect directly to the rear frame.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2001Date of Patent: August 2, 2005Inventor: Clower E. Maloy
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Patent number: 6863289Abstract: An axle rocker for connecting an axle 3 to the vehicle body 2 of a motor vehicle, which has a flange 9 provided at the axle 3, a central joint arranged at the flange 9 and two swivel arms 4 and 8 connected to the central joint, which are pivotably fastened to the vehicle body 2. The central joint has a central joint housing 10 and a central joint inner part 11, which is mounted pivotable in same and which protrudes from the central joint housing 10 at its two ends designed as connection pins on two mutually opposite sides. Furthermore, at least part of the central joint housing 10 is made in one piece with the flange 9, and the swivel arms 4 and 8 are fastened with their ends facing the central joint to the two connection pins of the central joint inner part 11.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2002Date of Patent: March 8, 2005Assignee: ZF Lemförder Metallwaren AGInventors: Reinhard Buhl, Uwe Cossmann, Sören Knopp, André Diener, Reinhard Richter
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Publication number: 20040217571Abstract: An axle supporting structure for supporting an axle beam for an industrial vehicle includes a center pin, a pair of axle supporting units and a counterweight. The center pin protrudes from the axle beam. Each axle supporting unit has formed therethrough an insertion hole in which the center pin is inserted. The axle supporting unit has an upper axle supporting member and a lower axle supporting member which is detachably connected to the upper axle supporting member. The pair of axle supporting units is spaced from each other in a traveling direction of the vehicle. The center pin is rotatably supported between the pair of axle supporting units. The upper axle supporting members of the axle supporting units are cast in the counterweight.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 20, 2004Publication date: November 4, 2004Inventors: Takahito Miyake, Hiroshi Kobayashi, Shuo Uematsu, Tomomichi Miura, Kenichi Katae
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Publication number: 20040188971Abstract: A self-steering axle assembly which can be supported to a vehicle includes an axle. A suspension and steering system interposed between the axle and the vehicle are rotatable as a unit around a motion axis of the axle. A pivotally supported member such as a platform can tilt to rotate the suspension and steering system. A mover such as a piston and cylinder assembly is connected to determine the angular displacement of the platform with respect to the vehicle. When the actuator is in a first position, caster is positive and when the platform is in a second position, caster is negative enabling the vehicle to self steer in the reverse mode. In a further embodiment, a vehicle or trailer is provided including a self-steering axle constructed in accordance with the present invention.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 31, 2003Publication date: September 30, 2004Inventors: Benito V. Rudder, Jamal U. Qattan
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Patent number: 6796568Abstract: A suspension system for mounting a pair of wheels to a wheelchair is disclosed. The system includes a crossbar pivotally mounted to the wheelchair so as to pivot about a longitudinal axis. At least one spring assembly is located between the crossbar and the wheelchair frame for controlling the pivoting of the crossbar. A hinge assembly is mounted on each lateral end of the crossbar. The hinge assembly includes a first hinge component attached to the crossbar so as to be rotatable about a vertical axis, and a second hinge component resiliently connected to the first hinge component. The resilient connection biases the second hinge connection against rotation with respect to the first hinge component. A wheel and yoke assembly are mounted to the second hinge component.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 2002Date of Patent: September 28, 2004Assignee: Pride Mobility Products CorporationInventors: Charles J. Martis, Mark E. Smith, James P. Mulhern
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Patent number: 6789636Abstract: A utility vehicle is provided with a middle axle that is mounted at the end of a bogey beam for both flotational and oscillatory movement relative to the frame of the vehicle. The middle axle is restrained longitudinally by support links that are pivotally connected to the frame at a location that is forward of the rear drive axle. The middle axle is formed by a pair of stub axles interconnected by a support beam that is pivotally connected to the rearward end of the bogey beam. Vertical movement of the middle axle support wheels results in a corresponding vertical movement of the rearward end of the bogey beam and a rotation of the support beam about its pivotal connection on the bogey beam. The oscillatory movement is accomplished by a pivotal connection via a ball joint between a central support bracket mounting the transverse support beam to the longitudinally extending bogey beam.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2003Date of Patent: September 14, 2004Assignee: New Holland North America, Inc.Inventor: Joseph C. Hurlburt
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Publication number: 20040160031Abstract: A swing mechanism of a steering axle in a three-wheeled industrial vehicle has a steering axle, a pair of steerable wheels, a steering shaft, a center pin and a holder. The steerable wheels are supported on both sides of the steering axle. The steering shaft is connected to the steering axle for rotating the steering axle in a steered direction and is synchronously rotated with a steering wheel of the vehicle. The center pin is arranged at a lower end of the steering shaft in a longitudinal direction of the vehicle. The holder is formed on the steering axle and is coupled to the center pin so as to be swingable.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 11, 2004Publication date: August 19, 2004Inventors: Seigo Shimizu, Fumihiro Fukatsu
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Patent number: 6761238Abstract: A joint case includes a flange, a joint shaft extending from the flange, and a case main body fitted to the joint shaft. The flange is fitted to a rear portion of a front vehicle body, whereas the side of the case main body of the joint case is fitted to a rear vehicle body. With the above construction of the joint case, the distance between the front vehicle body and the rear vehicle body can be reduced, and a reduction in the overall length of the tricycle can be obtained.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 2001Date of Patent: July 13, 2004Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Takuya Tagami, Takashi Ozeki, Mitsuo Nakagawa
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Publication number: 20040130114Abstract: A steering device for an agricultural harvesting machine having steerable rear wheels. The rear wheels are mounted to a rear axle. The steering device comprises a pivot support mounted on the rear axle and a wheel carrier that is pivotally supported on the pivot support. The rear wheel is rotaively supported on the wheel carrier and defines a rotational axis. The wheel carrier is pivoted relative to the pivot support about a pivot axis for steering the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 16, 2003Publication date: July 8, 2004Inventor: Dirk Weichholdt
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Publication number: 20040124600Abstract: A spit-frame, heavy truck, suspension system for trucks that haul trailers made of three moveably interlocked rigid frames referred to as the front frame, rear frame, and interconnecting frame. The front frame supports the cab, engine, and transmission. The rear primary frame supports the drive axle and fifth wheel. The rear end of the interconnecting frame is pivotally mounted to the rear frame whereby the rear frame may rotate about a transverse axis. The front end of the interconnecting frame is mounted to the front frame in a manner that permits the interconnecting frame to rotate and pivot along its longitudinal axis relative to the front frame. Hydraulic cylinders are used to dampen vibrations and oscillations within this spit-frame structure. An alternative embodiment allows the front frame to connect directly to the rear frame.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 23, 2001Publication date: July 1, 2004Inventor: Clower E. Maloy