Horizontal And Transverse Pivot Axis Patents (Class 280/124.116)
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Patent number: 7971888Abstract: A suspension system for a vehicle may include a torsion beam disposed along width direction of the vehicle and including an attaching portion formed to an end portion thereof, a trailing arm disposed to the attaching portion of the torsion beam and aligned along length direction of the vehicle, wherein one end portion of the trailing arm is coupled to a wheel and the other end portion of the trailing arm is connected to a vehicle body, and a stiffener connecting the attaching portion of the torsion beam and the trailing arm disposed between the stiffener and the attaching portion of the torsion beam.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2009Date of Patent: July 5, 2011Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors CorporationInventor: Jae Hun Kim
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Patent number: 7967308Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 3, 2008Date of Patent: June 28, 2011Assignee: Magna International Inc.Inventor: Dieter Toepker
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Patent number: 7967307Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 21, 2005Date of Patent: June 28, 2011Assignee: ArvinMeritor Technology, LLCInventor: Benjamin R. Reineck
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Patent number: 7963535Abstract: An arrangement for pivotally coupling an auxiliary axle frame to a vehicle chassis includes a pair of support brackets, each fastened to one of two opposite longitudinal rails of the chassis. Each bracket is coupled to its associated rail with a set of threaded fasteners extended through aligned openings in the bracket and rail. Each fastener is tightened to a predetermined level of tensile force, after which its movable components are welded together to positively and permanently set the fastener. Each bracket extends behind the chassis to support a rotational coupling device including a pin rotatable about a transverse axis. Opposite arms of the tag axle frame support clevis type coupling features at their forward ends. Each clevis type feature is integrally coupled to one of the pins. An actuator used to pivot the tag axle frame can be coupled to the chassis and frame through similar rotational coupling devices and clevis type features.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2008Date of Patent: June 21, 2011Assignee: Con-Tech Manufacturing, Inc.Inventors: Grant T. McNeilus, Brian R. Meldahl
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Patent number: 7954833Abstract: A suspension assembly comprises an axle member extending between a pair of trailing beam assemblies, wherein each trailing beam assembly comprises first and second members pivotally coupled to one another that cooperate to form an aperture within which the axle member is clamped. Each trailing beam assembly comprises a first member having a first recess, and a second member that includes a second recess, wherein the first and second members are pivotally coupled to one another and are pivotable between a first position, wherein the first recess and second recess cooperate with one another to form an open aperture, and a second position, wherein the first recess and the second recess cooperate to form a first closed aperture that receives the axle member therethrough.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2010Date of Patent: June 7, 2011Assignee: SAF-Holland, Inc.Inventors: Jason Heath, Bill Broene
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Patent number: 7938416Abstract: A kit for providing an air suspension as a retrofit to an existing trailer using a leaf spring suspension makes use of hanging brackets, support arms and air bladders connected to a control system that determines whether the bladders require inflation or deflation to level the bed of the trailer.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2008Date of Patent: May 10, 2011Assignee: LBC Contracting, Ltd.Inventor: Derek Legros
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Patent number: 7938415Abstract: A vehicle is provided with an axle suspended from a main frame of the vehicle by right- and left-hand pairs of connecting rods. As viewed from the top, one of each of the right- and left-hand pairs of connecting rods crosses the other of the pair of rods, and, as viewed from the side, the right- and left-hand pairs of rods are disposed parallel to each other. This arrangement of the connecting rods results in the axle moving substantially vertically up and down during operation of vehicle over uneven terrain.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2008Date of Patent: May 10, 2011Assignee: Deere & CompanyInventors: Brandon C. Carlson, Donald E. Young, Garry E. Baxter, Jack C. Anderson
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Publication number: 20110101639Abstract: A support structure for an axle housing of a towing tractor includes a leaf spring forming a part of a suspension, an axle housing which has a contact surface and is supported at opposite ends of the axle housing by the suspension and a spring seat which is separately provided from the leaf spring and the axle housing and disposed between the leaf spring and the axle housing, and the spring seat has a support surface. The axle housing is supported by the spring seat in plane surface contact between the contact surface and the support surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 3, 2010Publication date: May 5, 2011Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOYOTA JIDOSHOKKIInventor: Mitsumasa TAKEDA
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Patent number: 7934734Abstract: A suspension air spring lift kit has a trailing arm having an end that is pivotally connected to a hanger bracket. A vertically oriented air bag is connected between another end of the trailing arm and a frame member of a vehicle, for example, a dump truck or a trailer in a tractor-trailer combination. An air spring system having a lower bracket and an upper bracket, with an air spring bag positioned between these two brackets, is attached between the frame member and the trailing arm. When the air spring bag is inflated, the air spring system lifts the trailing arm. When the air spring bag is deflated, the air spring system allows the trailing arm to be lowered.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 2008Date of Patent: May 3, 2011Assignee: Dana Heavy Vehicle Systems Group, LLCInventors: Randal M. Billian, Aaron M. Smith
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Patent number: 7934579Abstract: A suspension assembly includes an axle and a resilient member. The axle includes a first end and a second end and is movable with respect to a vehicle's frame between an unloaded position and a loaded position. The resilient member is configured to be spaced from at least one of the axle and the frame when the axle is in the unloaded position. The resilient member is also configured to selectively progressively bias the axle towards the unloaded position. A vehicle including a suspension assembly is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: January 4, 2008Date of Patent: May 3, 2011Assignee: Honda Motor Company, Ltd.Inventor: Lee N. Bowers
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Publication number: 20110095503Abstract: A suspension system includes a member which extends laterally relative to a frame of a vehicle. At least one spindle carrier may pivot about the member. Multiple spindle carriers may be pivotably mounted at respective opposite ends of the member. A spindle carrier may rotate about an axis which is collinear with and/or parallel to an axis of the member.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 22, 2009Publication date: April 28, 2011Applicant: WATSON & CHALIN MANUFACTURING, INC.Inventors: Cully B. DODD, Emmanuel Ramon
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Patent number: 7914026Abstract: A suspension system having a composite beam. In a described embodiment, a suspension system for a vehicle having a frame is provided. The suspension system includes an axle and a beam interconnected between the vehicle frame and the axle. The beam has opposite ends, an elongated body extending between the opposite ends, and a metal end connection at one of the opposite ends. The body is made of a composite material.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2003Date of Patent: March 29, 2011Assignee: Watson & Chain Manufacturing, Inc.Inventors: Thomas N. Chalin, Cully B. Dodd, Herbert D. Hudson
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Patent number: 7900941Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 15, 2006Date of Patent: March 8, 2011Assignee: Volvo Lastvagnar ABInventor: Andreas Lundmark
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Patent number: 7900943Abstract: A rear suspension system for an all-terrain vehicle having a chassis and at least three wheels. Two trailing arms are pivotally connected to a chassis. Each of the trailing arms includes a drive shaft bearing. A CV joint pivot arm is pivotally connected to the chassis. A CV joint housing is connected to the CV joint pivot arm. The CV joint housing includes a CV joint bearing. A CV joint is housed inside the CV joint housing and is supported by the CV joint bearing. A drive shaft extends through the CV joint and is rigidly connected to the CV joint. The drive shaft is further supported by each of the drive shaft bearings attached to the trailing arms. A shock absorption system is connected between the drive shaft and the chassis. In a preferred embodiment, a cross bar is connected between the trailing arms for stability. Also, preferably, the rear suspension system includes a sway bar and linear shock absorbers acting in combination to provide optimum suspension.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2007Date of Patent: March 8, 2011Inventor: Craig Stewart
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Patent number: 7900942Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 9, 2006Date of Patent: March 8, 2011Assignee: SAF-Holland GmbHInventor: Hubert B. Koschinat
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Patent number: 7896369Abstract: A suspension system for supporting an axle and connected to a vehicle frame, including a pair of transversely spaced frame brackets mounted on and depending from the vehicle frame. Each of the frame brackets having one or more mounting points spaced along its perimeter for mounting of suspension components, such as shock absorbers, and having a protruding air spring attachment plate that extends inboard toward the center of the vehicle frame. The suspension system also includes a first pair of air springs, the upper portions of which are mounted to the air spring attachment plates of the frame brackets. The lower portions of the air springs are mounted to suspension arm. The suspension system includes a second pair of air springs that are longitudinally separated from the first pair of air springs and that are connected to the suspension arm assemblies and to the frame.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2008Date of Patent: March 1, 2011Assignee: Hendrickson USA, L.L.C.Inventors: Neil James Tomlin, Michael Brannigan
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Patent number: 7887073Abstract: The invention relates to as suspension unit for a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, having a rigid axle, comprising a longitudinal member or axle member having a suspension section, a support section and an axle receptacle section, wherein the suspension section is designed to be rotatably or pivotably articulatedly mounted on a frame element of the vehicle, the longitudinal member can be supported on the frame element by means of the support section, and the vehicle axle can be coupled to the axle receptacle section and to a hollow cylindrical element. The longitudinal member is formed from a cast or composite material and the hollow cylindrical element is formed from a weldable material. The hollow cylindrical element is arranged in the axle receptacle section and is connected to the longitudinal member in a form-fitting or force-fitting manner.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2007Date of Patent: February 15, 2011Assignee: SAF-Holland GmbHInventor: Olaf Drewes
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Patent number: 7878517Abstract: A vehicle axle construction comprises a suspension for supporting the axle from first and second frame rail members. Elongated support members extend forwardly from respective locations along the frame rail members that are rearwardly of the axle and are clamped or otherwise coupled to the axle. A single pivot may be utilized to couple the respective rearmost end portions of the supports to the respective frame members. The forward ends of the supports may be coupled to respective air springs. Desirably, at least a portion of each air spring is positioned forwardly of the axle. In addition, at least one lateral stabilizer rigidifies the suspension. An alternative suspension utilizes leaf springs. A double acting rack-and-pinion steering mechanism may be rigidly coupled to the axle for use in steering the wheels of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2008Date of Patent: February 1, 2011Assignee: Daimler Trucks North America LLCInventors: Michael von Mayenburg, Daniel G. Fuchs, James V. McHorse, Sean Tabari
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Patent number: 7878518Abstract: The invention concerns a motor vehicle flexible axle comprising two longitudinal arms (20) connected by a cross bracing (10) with open cross-section whereof the flanks (11), (21) have each an edge (1), (2) extending between docking zones (4) with the ends of said cross bracing. The invention is characterized in that said edges (1), (2) have a non-rectilinear shape enhancing their tensioning when said cross member is subjected to torsion, said tensioning enabling said docking zones (4) to be relieved of stresses due to said torsion.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2006Date of Patent: February 1, 2011Assignee: Auto Chassis International SNCInventor: Alexis De Pompignan
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Patent number: 7878516Abstract: Axles and spindle assemblies for wheeled vehicles. More particularly, in at least one embodiment, this invention relates to a substantially curvilinear axle for wheeled vehicles, alone or in combination with a spindle assembly, having a substantially continuous radius of curvature extending from one end of the axle to the other. In at least one additional embodiment, this invention relates to fabricated spindle assemblies having gusset arms for mechanical attachment to axle ends.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2010Date of Patent: February 1, 2011Inventors: Michael John Gottschalk, Robert Steven Shea
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Patent number: 7871093Abstract: A torsion beam suspension includes a pair of lateral trailing members, each of which has a front end portion pivotally supported by a vehicle body and also has a rear end portion adapted to suspend wheels. The suspension also includes a torsion beam adapted to have an open face, in which a vehicle front side or a vehicle rear side thereof is opened, and arranged to extend in a lateral direction of a vehicle. Intermediate portions of the pair of trailing members are respectively bonded to corresponding end portions of the torsion beam. On an inner side wall of each of the trailing members, a patch member connecting a corresponding one of the trailing members to the torsion beam is disposed.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 2006Date of Patent: January 18, 2011Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Tetsu Ogawa, Shunsuke Kataoka
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Publication number: 20110001300Abstract: A vehicle drive arrangement for a vehicle of the type having differential power transmission arrangement that converts the rotatory motion of the rotatory power shaft to rotatory motion of first and second drive shafts disposed substantially orthogonal the rotatory power shaft. Primary leaf springs are each coupled at their respective centers to respective drive shafts by pivotal arrangements. The first and second primary springs may include helical springs that are used in place of, or in combination with, the primary leaf springs. Secondary leaf springs may be splayed and therefore need not be arranged parallel to the primary leaf springs. Control over vehicle kinematics is enhanced by configuring the resilience of a fulcrum bumper using resilient, rheological, or active systems. An active system will control vehicle height while stationary to facilitate loading and unloading of the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 18, 2007Publication date: January 6, 2011Inventor: James Andrew Juriga
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Patent number: 7862059Abstract: A torsion beam axle includes a torsion beam, a plurality of trailing arms made of a material different from that of the torsion beam, and connecting tubes made of a material better than that of the trailing arms with respect to weldability with the torsion beam, and integrally coupled to the trailing arms at one end part thereof, and welded to the torsion beam at the other end part thereof. Thereby, the coupling force between the trailing arms and the torsion beam made of different materials can be improved.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 2006Date of Patent: January 4, 2011Assignee: Austem Co., Ltd.Inventor: Jung-Min Ko
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Patent number: 7854439Abstract: A suspension system of a coupled torsion beam axle type may include a torsion beam that is disposed in the width direction of a vehicle body, left/right trailing arms that are mounted on respective ends of the torsion beam to be extended in the rearward direction of the vehicle body, and a spindle block that is mounted on one end of each of the respective trailing arms and in which a spindle is integrally formed in the front end surface thereof for a wheel to be mounted.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2009Date of Patent: December 21, 2010Assignee: Hyundai Motor CompanyInventor: Hoo Gwang Lee
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Patent number: 7854438Abstract: A trailing arm suspension system and method of manufacture wherein a tubular axle is formed with a central area and trailing arm attachment areas outboard of the central area. The axle central area and attachment areas have a substantially uniform outer surface diameter, and the wall thickness of the attachment areas is thicker/greater than the wall thickness of the central area. Inboard and outboard arm brackets are secured by welding to the axle arm attachment areas and trailing arms are secured, at one end thereof, between an inboard and an outboard arm bracket. At their other ends, the trailing arms are adapted to be pivotally secured to the vehicle. The arm brackets are secured to the axle by inserting the axle through an axle receiving hole in the brackets and providing a 360° weld bead at the interface between the axle and arm brackets.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 2009Date of Patent: December 21, 2010Assignee: Tuthill CorporationInventor: Gregory A. Richardson
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Patent number: 7854436Abstract: Axle lifting device for a vehicle, in particular for vehicle axles with pneumatic suspension, comprising a supporting element, a lifting element, and a lever element, the supporting element and the lever element being connectable to one another via the lifting element such that when the lifting element is actuated, the supporting element is supported on a frame element of the vehicle and the lever element exerts a preferably vertical force on an axle control arm of the vehicle in order to lift the axle control arm, and the lever element is mounted essentially in a stationary manner so as to be rotatable or pivotable with respect to a distal end of the axle control arm and/or the frame element, and the supporting element is rotatably or pivotably supported on the lever element.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2007Date of Patent: December 21, 2010Assignee: SAF-Holland, GmbHInventors: Helmut Hock, Harald Panke
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Publication number: 20100301579Abstract: A trailing rear suspension for a motor vehicle having a twist beam axle coupled at its ends to a pair of trailing arms wherein the twist beam axle raises the shear center of the central portion of its cross-beam above the wheel center of the vehicle. The raising of the shear center is achieved by rotating the cross-beam to orient one leg of its cross-section to be aligned with the top of the trailing arms.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 22, 2010Publication date: December 2, 2010Inventors: Aaron J. Smith, Anthony A. Marcheff, Hari Sankara Iyer, Dominic G. Perera
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Patent number: 7832749Abstract: A spindle bracket of a torsion beam axle suspension system is defined on an end portion of a trailing arm to be connected to a hub assembly on which a wheel and a tire are mounted. The spindle bracket may include a first inner bracket that is welded to an inner side and an outer side of an end portion of a upper member of the trailing arm, a second inner bracket that is welded to an inner side and an outer side of an end portion of a lower member of the trailing arm, and an outer bracket that is attached to the first and second inner brackets to be engaged with the hub assembly in company with the first and second inner brackets.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2009Date of Patent: November 16, 2010Assignee: Hyundai Motor CompanyInventor: Won Jae Lee
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Publication number: 20100270766Abstract: A suspension system for use with a vehicle comprising a control arm having an upper rear arm and a spring mounting plate integrally formed as a single member, a spindle extending outwardly from the upper rear arm, an air spring adapted to be mounted intermediate the spring plate and the vehicle, and a pivot assembly for pivotally mounting the control arm to the vehicle whereby the pivot assembly has a fist axis of rotation.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 15, 2010Publication date: October 28, 2010Inventors: Ervin K. VanDenberg, David H. Croston
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Publication number: 20100264613Abstract: A suspension system for use with a frame comprising a first side suspension opposite a second side suspension, the first side suspension having a complete parallelogram suspension proximate the first side, and the second side suspension having a complete parallelogram suspension proximate the second side. The suspension system also includes a cross tube disposed at least partially between the first side and the second side, as well as at least one spring for resiliently controlling the vertical movement of the first and second side suspensions.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 15, 2010Publication date: October 21, 2010Inventors: Ervin K. VanDenberg, David H. Croston
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Patent number: 7815199Abstract: An air suspension system is configured to maintain a desired vehicle comfort ride level as a function of vehicle speed. The air suspension system includes a plurality of air spring assemblies that each include a piston airbag and a primary airbag mounted around the piston airbag. A first set of the air spring assemblies is tuned to a first ride rate and a second set of the air spring assemblies is tuned to a second ride rate. Pressure is continuously varied within the first and second sets of air springs to maintain a first predetermined ride rate difference between the first ride rate and the second ride rate under a low vehicle speed condition and to maintain a second predetermined ride rate difference between the first ride rate and the second ride rate under a high vehicle speed condition.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2009Date of Patent: October 19, 2010Assignee: ArvinMeritor Technology, LLCInventor: John Ashley Peterson
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Patent number: 7810603Abstract: A swing arm structure, in a shaft-driven vehicle, is configured and arranged compactly to minimize the size and weight thereof. A drive shaft of the vehicle is housed in a right arm portion of a swing arm. A front end of the drive shaft is connected to a powertrain output shaft via a universal joint. A pivot sleeve is disposed such that a central axis thereof is disposed downwardly and rearwardly of a central portion of the universal joint, and a front-end opening protrudes forwardly of the pivot sleeve. The central portion of the universal joint, having the largest diameter, is disposed forwardly of the center of a pivot shaft. This helps to keep the opening diameter small at the front of the right arm portion.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2007Date of Patent: October 12, 2010Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kenji Kofuji, Koichi Nozoe
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Publication number: 20100253030Abstract: The arm includes a wheel-side portion for support of a wheel and a body-side portion for connection to the vehicle body, the two arm portions being securely connected to each other by welding. The wheel-side arm portion may be made of cast iron and the body-side arm portion may be made as a steel tubular piece. Alternatively, the wheel-side arm portion is made of cast aluminium and the body-side arm portion is made as an extruded aluminium piece. It is thus possible to combine the high camber stiffness of the wheel-side portion made of cast iron or aluminium with the high compliance in case of impact of the body-side portion made of stamped or extruded steel or aluminium.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 2, 2008Publication date: October 7, 2010Applicant: SISTEMI SOSPENSIONI S.P.A.Inventors: Armando D'Aponte, Piero Monchiero, Andrea Santini
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Publication number: 20100253029Abstract: The ground wheels of a round baler are mounted on the chassis of the baler using a suspension system wherein a rigid axle of the system is spaced forwardly in offset relationship to spindles that journal the wheels for rotation. Fore-and-aft arms that connect the wheels with the axle are pivotally coupled with the axle in an independent manner so that each wheel can swing up and down relative to the chassis independently of the other wheel. Resilient cushion structure associated with the axle yieldably resists upward swinging of the wheel arms to thereby cushion the baler against jarring shock loads caused by abrupt terrain changes.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 7, 2009Publication date: October 7, 2010Applicant: AGCO CorporationInventor: Cedric J. Blough
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Publication number: 20100237578Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a rear axle attachment structure of a forklift capable of controlling deterioration of mounting bushes and stoppers, and to provide a forklift including the same. A rear axle attachment structure for a forklift includes mounting shafts (32) protruding from front and rear sides of a rear axle and mounting bushes (30) each having rubber (35) provided between a tubular outer frame (33) and a tubular inner frame (34) and being attached to a vehicle body, each of the mounting shaft being inserted into a mounting hole (38) within the inner frame. The attachment structure further includes protrusion amount control means controlling an amount of protrusion of an upper portion (35a) of the rubber (35), the portion being above the inner frame (34) and protruding from between the outer frame (33) and inner frame (34) in vehicle front and rear directions.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 6, 2008Publication date: September 23, 2010Applicant: MITSUBISHI HEAVY INDUSTRIES,LTD.Inventors: Hironobu Hakoda, Junji Kondo
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Patent number: 7789405Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 14, 2008Date of Patent: September 7, 2010Assignee: Link Manufacturing, Ltd.Inventor: Tjong T. Lie
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Patent number: 7775535Abstract: A suspension subassembly for securement to a heavy vehicle trailer includes a hanger bracket for a trailing arm, an air spring mounting bracket, a damper mounting bracket, and a connection member extending longitudinally between the hanger bracket and the damper mounting bracket. The damper mounting bracket is positioned intermediate the hanger bracket and the air spring mounting bracket.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 2007Date of Patent: August 17, 2010Assignee: Meritor Heavy Vehicle Braking Systems (UK) LimitedInventors: Christopher Bluff, David Chen, Paul Bell, Shajimon Kaithan, Shaun Gillespie, Andrew Mathie, Martin Peaker
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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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Publication number: 20100187789Abstract: A leading or trailing arm vehicle suspension system comprised of a fabricated vehicle axle and a fully integrated beam casting providing bending stiffness to control axle windup and longitudinal stiffness to control axle position is disclosed. The beam casting is attached to the vehicle axle with a thru-bolt connection. The beam casting includes rack and pinion mounting attachment holes and also includes other built-in features providing efficient transfer of loads into the vehicle axle.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 1, 2010Publication date: July 29, 2010Applicant: HENDRICKSON USA, L.L.C.Inventors: Ashley Thomas Dudding, Rodolfo Rosales, JR., Jerome Lim Cortez, Jerry Michael Lovett
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Patent number: 7758056Abstract: A vehicle suspension system includes a pair of suspension assemblies mounted on a pair of spaced vehicle frame members for supporting a vehicle body on the vehicle wheels. A torsion axle extends between the pair of suspension assemblies and terminates in a pair of stub shafts. The axle is mounted on a pair of spaced frame bars attached to the vehicle frame. An air spring extends between the vehicle frame and an outer end of a support arm mounted on the torsion axle. The stub shafts are supported within an outer tube of the torsion axle by a plurality of elastomeric members. One end of each stub shaft is connected to a spindle arm which has a spindle extending from an opposite end of the arm. The outer tube of the torsion axle pivotally supports the air spring support arm and the axis of the torsion axle is coaxial with the pivot axis of the air spring support arm to provide a more compact and sturdy suspension assembly.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2008Date of Patent: July 20, 2010Assignee: Air Suspensions, Inc.Inventors: Ervin K. VanDenberg, David H. Croston
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Patent number: 7753384Abstract: A four-point suspension control arm (1) is provided for the axle suspension of a rigid axle especially of a utility vehicle. The four-point control arm (1) has four bearing eyes (7, 8, 9, 10), wherein two bearing eyes (9, 10) can be connected to the rigid axle and two bearing eyes (7, 8)are to be connected to the vehicle frame, each in an articulated manner. The four-point control arm (1) is designed as a one-piece hollow housing (2, 3, 4, 5, 6), which can be twisted and is inscribed in the rectangle or trapezoid formed by the bearing eyes. The hollow housing (2, 3, 4, 5, 6) is formed essentially by a tube, which is arranged horizontally in respect to the vehicle and is open on both sides, with a cross section ranging from an essentially rounded rectangular to O-shaped.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2005Date of Patent: July 13, 2010Assignee: ZF FriedrichshafenInventors: Ralf Kunze, Wolfgang Ratermann, Reinhard Buhl
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Patent number: 7748726Abstract: A leading or trailing arm vehicle suspension system comprised of a fabricated vehicle axle and an arm assembly. The arm assembly includes an axle bracket attached to the axle and a leading or trailing arm attached to the axle bracket. The arm provides bending stiffness to control axle windup and longitudinal stiffness to control axle position is disclosed. The axle bracket is attached to the vehicle axle with a through-bolt connection. The axle bracket or the arm includes rack and pinion mounting attachment holes and also includes other built-in features providing efficient transfer of loads into the vehicle axle.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 2007Date of Patent: July 6, 2010Assignee: Hendrickson USA, L.L.C.Inventors: Ashley Thomas Dudding, Jason Sleby Thomas, Rodolfo Rosales, Jr., Jerome Lim Cortez, Jerry Michael Lovett, Damon Elwood Dilworth
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Patent number: 7740255Abstract: A suspension beam with a captured axle is described, including a top and bottom plate, a pivot mount, and a spring mount, and side plates. Optional embodiments include an axle sleeve, multiple top and bottom plates, a u-shaped member in place of the side plates. The pivot mount includes a bush housing and a bush housing clamp. The side walls may be recessed, flush or outboard with respect to the top and bottom plates. The top and bottom plates are directly attached to the axle or axle sleeve, and to the pivot mount.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2007Date of Patent: June 22, 2010Assignee: Ridewell CorporationInventor: Mark Holt
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Patent number: 7731211Abstract: An axle/suspension system for a heavy-duty vehicle, in which the vehicle includes a frame that extends in a longitudinal direction relative to the vehicle. The axle/suspension system is attached to the vehicle frame via at least one hanger and includes at least one beam, which includes a first end and a second end. The first end of the beam is connected to the hanger, and the second end of the beam immovably captures an axle, which extends in a transverse direction relative to the vehicle. The beam is formed of a composite material and has a substantially constant cross section in the transverse direction to provide sufficient strength to control roll forces encountered by the vehicle during operation.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2006Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Hendrickson USA, L.L.C.Inventor: John Edward Ramsey
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Publication number: 20100133774Abstract: A suspension system of a coupled torsion beam axle type may include a torsion beam that is disposed in the width direction of a vehicle body, left/right trailing arms that are mounted on respective ends of the torsion beam to be extended in the rearward direction of the vehicle body, and a spindle block that is mounted on one end of each of the respective trailing arms and in which a spindle is integrally formed in the front end surface thereof for a wheel to be mounted.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 7, 2009Publication date: June 3, 2010Applicant: Hyundai Motor companyInventor: Hoo Gwang LEE
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Patent number: 7726673Abstract: A trailing arm assembly for a suspension includes first and second axle wraps. The first and second axle wraps are welded to each other to substantially surround an outer perimeter of an axle member. The first axle wrap is then welded to one side of the axle member at a first weld area and the second axle wrap is welded to an opposite side of the axle member at a second weld area. The first axle wrap includes a spring seat and the second axle wrap includes an arm body with a bushing receiver portion at one arm end. A bushing tube attached to the bushing receiver portion. The first weld area comprises a single window weld and the second weld area comprises first and second window welds that are positioned on opposing sides of the arm body.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2007Date of Patent: June 1, 2010Assignee: ArvinMeritor Technology, LLCInventors: Steven George Saieg, Craig Allen Holt
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Patent number: 7726674Abstract: A vehicle suspension system includes a pair of suspension assemblies mounted on a pair of spaced vehicle frame members for supporting a vehicle body on the vehicle wheels. A torsion axle extends between the pair of suspension assemblies and terminates in a pair of stub shafts. The axle is mounted on a pair of spaced frame brackets attached to the vehicle frame. An air spring extends between the vehicle frame and an outer end of a support arm pivotally mounted on each end of the torsion axle. The stub shafts are supported within an outer tube of the torsion axle by a plurality of elastomeric members. One end of each stub shaft is connected to a spindle arm which has a spindle extending from an opposite end of the arm.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2008Date of Patent: June 1, 2010Assignee: Air Suspensions, Inc.Inventors: Ervin K. VanDenberg, David H. Croston
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Publication number: 20100127470Abstract: A torsion beam axle includes a torsion beam, a plurality of trailing arms made of a material different from that of the torsion beam, and connecting tubes made of a material better than that of the trailing arms with respect to weldability with the torsion beam, and integrally coupled to the trailing arms at one end part thereof, and welded to the torsion beam at the other end part thereof. Thereby, the coupling force between the trailing arms and the torsion beam made of different materials can be improved.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 5, 2006Publication date: May 27, 2010Applicant: AUSTEM CO., LTD.Inventor: Jung-Min Ko
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Patent number: 7722280Abstract: A hollow-bodied component, which includes at least two die-cast shell elements (1, 2), is suitable in particular for use as a steering component in motor vehicle running-gear assemblies. The hollow-bodied component has a connection zone (5, 6, 18, 19) configured on the shell elements (1, 2) to be interconnected. One connection zone (5) has one first contact area (7) with an essentially U-shaped cross-section that is located on the respective shell element (1) and the other connection zone has at least one strut-type second contact area (8) that engages in the space in the U-shaped first contact area (7) and that is located on the respective other shell element (2). The connection zones (5, 6, 18, 19) are joined in a force fit in a cold welding process that uses a contact pressure (F1, F2), whose value is a multiple of the separating force components (Fr) that act on the connection zones (5, 6, 18, 19) during operation. A method is provided for producing the component.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2005Date of Patent: May 25, 2010Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AGInventor: Peter Hofmann
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Patent number: 7722062Abstract: A suspension system for a motor vehicle that controls torque reaction comprising a chassis, a rigid drive axle, an opposite axle, a road wheel attached to each end of each axle, at least one torque reaction control link positioned longitudinally of the motor vehicle between the road wheels, at least two longitudinal control arms attached proximate the road wheels, for longitudinal control of the drive axle, so that the at least one torque reaction control link has a longitudinal plane that extends longitudinally of the motor vehicle and whereby the effective projection lines of the at least two longitudinal control arms and the longitudinal plane of the at least one torque reaction control link intersect each other in the direction of the opposite axle, forming a convergent angle and that when a force moves the rigid drive axle vertically up the convergent angle does not increase.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 2007Date of Patent: May 25, 2010Inventor: Gordon A. Dreher, Jr.