Longitudinal Control Arm (i.e., Suspension Arm) Patents (Class 280/124.153)
  • Patent number: 11897307
    Abstract: The suspension system for a trailer is disclosed. The suspension system includes a torsion axle and an air spring operating to accommodate a wide range of a load weight applied to the trailer without any change in ride comfort. The air spring can be adjusted for its pressure inside to cover a heavy load weight, while the torsion axle can have relatively softer spring materials therein to cover a light (and zero) load weight. The air spring and the torsion axle are arranged in series to provide adequate suspension based on the load weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2023
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2024
    Assignee: Flyer Next, LLC
    Inventors: Nicholas Brett Frey, Amit Nechushtan, Matthew Phillip Amano, Bryce Makoto Hirai
  • Patent number: 11254175
    Abstract: The invention relates to a single-shell spring control arm formed of sheet metal for a wheel suspension of a motor vehicle, with upwardly directed side limbs connected to one another by a base, with a first end section for connection to a chassis girder, with a second end section for wheel-side connection, with a spring receiving section, which is located between the two end sections and has a spring support surface formed on the base, and with a damper receiving section formed between the spring receiving section and the second end section for connecting a shock absorber. In order to achieve at relatively low component weight and favorable manufacturing costs improved stiffness with respect to high axle loads, the invention provides that a U-shaped constriction is formed between the spring support surface and the damper receiving section, which constriction extends in the base and in the side limbs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2022
    Assignee: Autotech Engineering Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Oliver Frenzel, Julian Niemann
  • Patent number: 11084549
    Abstract: The invention describes a vehicle (100) having three or more tilting wheels comprising a main frame (2) provided with a suspension group (3) for at least two wheels (25). The suspension group (3) is joined to the main frame (2) through a hinge (8) that allows the free rotation of the main frame (2) with respect to the suspension group (3) along the axis of the hinge (8). The suspension group (3) comprises a pivoting arm (6) for each wheel (25). Each pivoting arm (6) is constrained to the suspension group (3) through the interposition of one or more elastic elements (9) consisting of elastomers. The elastic elements (9) operate as suspension or damping means, or with both of the associated functions. Each elastic element (9) is compressed and works under pressure inside a cavity obtained between one or more pins (7) having a closed polygonal section, operatively associated with the hinge (8), and one or more channels (32) having a closed polygonal section, obtained in the suspension group (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2021
    Assignee: G.P. DI GHEZZI GIUSEPPE
    Inventor: Giuseppe Ghezzi
  • Patent number: 11021027
    Abstract: An in-wheel suspension system includes an assembly with a main arm that is pivotally connected at a connection point on the main arm to a shaft point of a wheel, a first linkage unit pivotally connected at one end to a first end of the main arm, and a second linkage unit pivotally connected at one end to a second end of the main arm. At least one second end of the first linkage unit and at least one second end of the second linkage unit, that are not connected to the main arm, are pivotally connectable each to a reference frame at a defined distance between them, such as to form a substantially “Z” like shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2021
    Assignee: REE AUTOMATIVE LTD
    Inventors: Ahishay Sardes, Ran Dekel, Tomer Segev, Eran Starik
  • Patent number: 10870181
    Abstract: A jig for assisting attachment and removal of a bolt, the bolt being inserted into a center hole of an inner cylinder included in a carrier bush and bolt holes opposed to each other to fasten a carrier and a lower arm, the bolt holes being provided in the lower arm, the jig having a base held in contact with a bottom surface of the lower arm, a fitting portion provided on the base to position the base with respect to the lower arm, and inner cylinder guides that are penetrable into an inner tip portion of the lower arm, and the inner cylinder guides have support grooves for supporting both ends of the inner cylinder, and a center line of the inner cylinder coincides with a center line of the bolt holes of the lower arm when the support grooves support the inner cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2020
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Kosuke Hayashida, Masaya Shimizu, Kanta Hattori
  • Patent number: 10822037
    Abstract: A frame for an off road vehicle includes main beams establishing a base plane. Mounting beams, which can be used to support forces from the swing arm of a rear suspension, are spaced outside the main beams and within the base plane, running longitudinally in line with the swing arms of the rear suspension. Right and left longitudinal beams start within the base plane, but rise to their trailing ends so as to not interfere with the suspension travel of the swing arms as they extend back inward over the swing arms. Front and rear support columns can further attach into, secure and support the mounting beams and the longitudinal beams. All of the beams and columns can be formed by cutting cylindrical tubing to length and then curving the cylindrical tubing, each piece within a single plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2020
    Assignee: Zhejiang CFMOTO Power Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Xiaoming Xiong
  • Patent number: 10766331
    Abstract: An air suspension for a vehicle includes a mounting bracket configured to couple to the vehicle. A pivot bracket includes a top and a bottom. The top is pivotably coupled to a frontward portion of the mounting bracket. An air shock absorber includes a first end and a second end. The first end is pivotably coupled to the bottom of the pivot bracket and the second end is pivotably coupled to a rearward portion of the mounting bracket. An axle arm includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion of the axle arm is fixedly coupled to the frontward portion of the mounting bracket. A spindle is fixedly coupled to the second portion of the axle arm and is configured to be coupled to a hub assembly of a wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2020
    Inventor: Ronald Jeremy Kliewer
  • Patent number: 10723191
    Abstract: An in-wheel suspension system includes an assembly with a main arm that is pivotally connected at a connection point on the main arm to a shaft point of a wheel, a first linkage unit pivotally connected at one end to a first end of the main arm, and a second linkage unit pivotally connected at one end to a second end of the main arm. At least one second end of the first linkage unit and at least one second end of the second linkage unit, that are not connected to the main arm, are pivotally connectable each to a reference frame at a defined distance between them, such as to form a substantially “Z” like shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2020
    Assignee: SOFTWHEEL LTD.
    Inventors: Ahishay Sardes, Ran Dekel, Tomer Segev, Eran Starik
  • Patent number: 10517285
    Abstract: A suspension module includes a spindle pivotably connected to an axle with a pivot element defining a vertical axis. The spindle has an attachment member and an attachment cap, with outer ends are rigidly interconnected by a pair of lift cylinders. The spindle includes a plate extending between the lift cylinders intermediate the attachment member and cap with the pivot element received between the attachment member and plate. Each lift cylinder has a ram movable within a housing of the lift cylinder. A wheelbox mounts to the wheel and couples with the spindle. First and second strut rods connect the wheelbox with the ram of one of the lift cylinders, and third and fourth strut rods connect the wheelbox with the ram of a second lift cylinder. The strut rods allow the spindle to move relative to the wheelbox while also transferring pivot torque between the wheelbox and the spindle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2019
    Assignee: AGCO Corporation
    Inventor: Mark Aron Crowley
  • Patent number: 10112455
    Abstract: A torsion beam suspension capable of preventing an abrupt rigidity change in a connection part between a trailing arm and a torsion beam is provided. The present invention is characterized in that in a torsion beam suspension 100 in which to right and left trailing arms 50 extending in a front-rear direction of a vehicle body and swinging vertically, a torsion beam 16 extending in a right and left direction of the vehicle body is joined, two or more types of rigidity adjustment portions 15, 18, 24 and 25 which adjust a rigidity from the trailing arms to the torsion beam are disposed with positions of the rigidity adjustment portions displaced from each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2018
    Assignee: Yorozu Corporation
    Inventors: Masaharu Matsumoto, Yuki Usami
  • Patent number: 9855973
    Abstract: A body shell structure of a motor vehicle includes a side superstructure of the body shell defining on either side of the vehicle two recess portions for wheel arch housings of the vehicle connected by a floor of the vehicle. The body shell structure includes, in each of the two recess portions for wheel arch housing, a wheel arch housing part and at least one mount for attaching the rear shock absorber, assembled by edges thereof to each of the wheel arch housing parts. The wheel arch housing part defines at least one substantially oblique surface portion around and beyond the edges of the mount. The superstructure also includes a structural plate rigidly connected to an oblique surface portion of the wheel arch housing part and secured to a substantially vertical surface portion of the superstructure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: RENAULT s.a.s.
    Inventors: Olivier Rioult, Herve Gaumont, Jerome Caillard, Jean-Luc Knop
  • Patent number: 9163599
    Abstract: A starting device for at least one combustion engine, in particular cable pull starting device for at least one two-stroke or four-stroke engine, with at least one cable sheave or cable drum rotatably mounted in a housing, which for generating a driving fork for a crankshaft can be put into rotary motion by means of at least one starter handle or pulling handle via at least one force transmission means, in particular via a starter cable or pulling cable and is connected to at least one driving member, in particular to at least one pawl driver via at least one elastic coupling element, by means of which the driving torque can be transmitted to the crankshaft, the coupling link having two ends, wherein an end is in engagement with the driving member and another end with the cable sheave or the cable drum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2015
    Assignee: MAKITA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Mathias Wenckel, Carsten Ziegs
  • Patent number: 9150070
    Abstract: A suspension system for a vehicle having a vehicle body arranged along a first axis includes a steering knuckle configured to rotatably support the vehicle's road wheel. The system also includes a torsion bar that is configured to generate a spring rate and arranged along a second axis that forms an acute angle relative to the first axis. The system also includes a tensile drop link fixed relative to the steering knuckle. The system additionally includes a semi-trailing arm having a first end and a distal second end, wherein the semi-trailing arm is operatively connected to a first end of the torsion bar at the first end of the arm and to the tensile drop link at the second end of the arm. Furthermore, the system includes an actuator fixed relative to the body and configured to rotate a second end of the torsion bar about the second axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2015
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: James L. Luttinen, Jeffry Pniewski, Giles D. Bryer
  • Patent number: 9010784
    Abstract: A suspension unit is disclosed having a hanger having a front face with an aperture and a control arm having a front face with an aperture. The control arm is pivotally attached to and depends from the hanger such that the front face of the hanger and the front face of the control arm are opposed one another with the aperture on the front face of the hanger being aligned with the aperture on the front face of the control arm. A jounce spring and a rebound spring are coaxially mounted to a shaft. The shaft is mounted through the apertures and springs. The rebound spring is positioned between the front faces of the hanger and the control arm and the jounce spring is positioned horizontally to one side of both the hanger and the control arm with the shaft in a horizontal orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Inventor: Parto Rezania
  • Patent number: 8998230
    Abstract: Provided is a rear suspension mounting structure for an electric vehicle, which can reduce the overall weight and can enhance steering stability by forming a torsion beam and a trailing arm using different materials. In one embodiment, the rear suspension mounting structure includes a hub fastened to the center of a wheel, a trailing arm including a housing producing an internal space and an arm bush extending to one side of the housing, a torsion beam bolt-coupled to the arm bush through a coupling plate, a motor coupled to the internal space of the housing and supplying a driving force, a motor cover provided in the internal space of the housing, and a driving speed reducer provided at the outside of the motor cover in the internal space of the housing, wherein the torsion beam and the trailing arm are formed using dissimilar metals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: Hyundai Wia Corporation
    Inventor: Eun Chang Lee
  • Patent number: 8991839
    Abstract: An axle suspension system for a vehicle. The axle suspension system may include a trailing arm assembly that may have a shock absorber passage. A shock absorber may extend through the shock absorber passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: ArvinMeritor Technology, LLC
    Inventors: Steven George Saieg, Craig Allen Holt
  • Patent number: 8967646
    Abstract: An axle suspension for a vehicle axle guided by a trailing arm and also, furthermore, an axle lift for a vehicle axle are proposed. The axle lift includes a force element (11), a pressure transmission means (18, 20) which is movable towards an axle link (5) of the vehicle axle by actuation of the force element, and a bracket (12). The bracket (12) is provided with a supporting means (10) for the force element (11) and the pressure reaction forces acting on the latter and, in addition, for the fastening to a support (2) is provided with a bracket part (31), on which a plug-in or hook connection (36A) for engagement in the support (2) is formed. With the aim of being able to fit the bracket (12) in a fixed basic setting on the support (2) with just a few actions, it is proposed that the bracket part (31), at a distance from the plug-in or hook connection (36A) thereof, is provided with at least one further connecting means (33), which is designed for engagement in the support (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: BPW Bergische Achsen KG
    Inventors: Michael Schwarz, Arthur Neumann, Swen Gmeiner, Manfred Michels, Bianca Luckau
  • Patent number: 8936265
    Abstract: A rear axle is provided for a motor vehicle, in particular a passenger car, with two independent wheel suspensions, each of which include, but is not limited to a wheel carrier and a three-link arrangement connected therewith in an articulated manner with a longitudinal link and two transverse links. The two transverse links are each arranged in vehicle longitudinal direction next to each other, and with a transverse leaf spring arrangement, which is connected to the two independent wheel suspensions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Dirk Ehrlich, Michael Harder
  • Publication number: 20140306418
    Abstract: Suspension arm 2 with an air guide 1, wherein the suspension arm 2 has in the installation position a downwardly open cross-sectional profile with a base surface 7 and at least two side webs 8 projecting from the base surface 7, and wherein the air guide 1 has a reinforcement element 3 to be arranged on the side webs 8 and an air guiding element 4 composed of a plastic material, and a method for producing an air guide 1 for a suspension arm 2.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2014
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Applicant: Audi AG
    Inventors: Andreas Ottinger, Hans-Jürgen LANGHOFF
  • Patent number: 8851500
    Abstract: A trailer for a trailer truck, comprising a chassis provided with a central chassis element and at least one axle with independent wheel suspension, which is connected to the chassis, the wheel suspension comprising a first, lower wheel suspension arm that is pivotally connected to the chassis about a first pivot axis that extends substantially in the longitudinal direction of the chassis, a second, higher wheel suspension arm that is pivotally connected to the chassis about a second pivot axis, a steering knuckle connecting the first wheel suspension arm and the second wheel suspension arm, a wheel axle attached to the steering knuckle, on which a wheel is rotatably mounted. The second pivot axis extends substantially in the transverse direction of the chassis, with the second end of the second wheel suspension being spaced from the first end of the second wheel suspension arm, seen in the longitudinal direction of the chassis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Transport Industry Development Centre B.V.
    Inventors: Jos Robertus Leonardus Dobbelaar, Johannes Gijsbertus Geradus Van De Ven
  • Patent number: 8851484
    Abstract: A steerable wheel assembly comprising a mounting bracket (1) incorporating a vertical pivot mounting (2) for attachment to the vehicle. A second bracket (6) has a first arm (7) carrying a road wheel and a second arm (8) generally upstanding from the first and linked at the upper end thereof to the mounting bracket by a parallelogram linkage (4,5). A spring and shock-absorber unit (9) is pivotally connected between the second bracket and the parallelogram linkage. Another aspect of the invention provides a vehicle suspension system comprising a mounting bracket (20) for attachment to a vehicle body or chassis, and a wheel-mounting arm (21) pivotally attached to the mounting bracket and having a wheel mounted thereon. A spring and shock-absorber unit (22) extends between the mounting bracket and the wheel-mounting arm, at least one end of the spring and shock-absorber unit being connected through a member (23) whose position is adjustable along the axis of the respective bracket or arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Inventor: Samuel Dantzie
  • Publication number: 20140252740
    Abstract: A chassis system for commercial vehicles includes an axle stub element and a linkage element, wherein the linkage element has a recess and the axle stub element has a first mounting section, wherein the first mounting section is arranged in the recess of the linkage element and is force-locked at the recess due to a shaping process, and wherein an adhesive layer, via which a material band is formed between the first mounting section of the axle stub element and the recess of the linkage element, is provided between the first mounting section and the recess.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2012
    Publication date: September 11, 2014
    Inventor: Olaf Drewes
  • Patent number: 8814189
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a suspension element for maintaining a wheel on a frame of a vehicle. The suspension element can be attached to the frame via a fixed support. The wheel can be mounted to an arm that is pivotably connected to the fixed support. A hydraulic strut resists a pivoting movement of the arm in relation to the fixed support. A pressure accumulator comprises a gas chamber and a fluid chamber separated by a diaphragm. The fluid chamber is in fluid connection with the hydraulic strut. A movement of the arm relative to the fixed support causes a change of pressure in the pressure accumulator. An independent suspension comprising two such suspension elements is also disclosed. The two suspension elements comprise extensions of the fixed support mounted on the frame so that two wheels are coaxial when mounted on the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Inventors: Mario Vitali, Mounsif Sarif, Denis Lagace
  • Patent number: 8783701
    Abstract: A lowerable suspension for trailers and other vehicles allows a trailer to be lowered to a deployed position in order to allow easier access to the trailer. A suspension axle is attached to the vehicle frame. A lower swing arm and an upper stop arm are rotatably connected to the suspension axle. A rubber damper pad is connected between the lower swing arm and the upper stop arm to act as a shock absorber during transit. A wheel is rotatably connected to the lower swing arm opposite the suspension axle. The wheel is affixed into a raised or lowered position by inserting a suspension transition pin through the upper stop arm into either a transit pin hole or a deployed pin hole of a suspension transition plate that is affixed to the vehicle frame adjacent. A plurality of jacks assists with raising and lowering the vehicle frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Inventor: Timothy D. Blevins
  • Patent number: 8764037
    Abstract: A wheel axle suspension having on both sides of a vehicle a trailing arm which extends in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, a thin walled tubular axle body, which has attachment regions where the axle body is attached to the trailing arms. Each trailing arm is hingedly connected at the front, viewed in the direction of travel of the vehicle, to a bearing bracket which is arranged on the vehicle chassis. The suspension also comprises a pneumatic spring operational between each of the trailing arms and the chassis, and clamp bodies for clamping the axle body at the attachment regions thereof so as to attach the axle body to the trailing arms, as well as tensioning elements for providing the clamp force for the clamp bodies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: VDL Weweler B.V.
    Inventor: Derk Geert Aalderink
  • Patent number: 8757649
    Abstract: A connecting strut for a chassis of a vehicle comprises an elongated carrier which has at least two carrier elements spaced apart from each other. The carrier elements are connected with each other at their ends by means of a respective connecting element. The carrier has a low torsional stiffness and a high bending stiffness with respect to its longitudinal axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: TRW Automotive GmbH
    Inventor: Cengiz Erdogan
  • Patent number: 8746719
    Abstract: A vehicle may include a CVT unit or a power source which requires ambient air. An air inlet for an air intake system coupled to the CVT unit or the power source which requires ambient air may be provided in a side of a cargo carrying portion of the vehicle. The vehicle may include a rear radius arm suspension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Polaris Industries Inc.
    Inventors: Brian M. Safranski, Robbi L. Peterson, Richard L. Sunsdahl, Aaron D. Deckard, Louis J. Brady
  • Patent number: 8714297
    Abstract: A single-wheel suspension of a non-steerable driven wheel of a two-track vehicle is provided. The suspension includes two longitudinal control arms that pivot in a vertical plane. The first control arm is supported by a vertical pendulum support and supports a wheel bearing. The second control arm is supported with one rotational degree of freedom on the vehicle and is connected to the first control arm with one rotation degree of freedom by a connecting member between the wheel bearing and the pendulum support. At least a section of the first control arm between the wheel bearing and the connecting member is located inside the wheel rim space. A gear mechanism at least partially inside the wheel rim includes two transmission stages laterally offset from one another. The rotational axes of a connection shaft connecting first and second transmission stages and the connection element between the two control arms coincide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Elsa Davy, Bernhard Paulus, Alfred Pruckner, Dirk Schlichte, Jakob Mueller
  • Patent number: 8708359
    Abstract: A vehicle suspension comprises an assembly of a hub carrier and a support arm, the support arm being attached to the hub carrier at two points spaced from each other in the direction of travel and extending inwardly therefrom to a support arm attachment point for fixing to a chassis, and a trailing link extending from the assembly in a direction transverse to that of the support arm, toward a trailing link attachment point for fixing to the chassis. The trailing link preferably extends from the assembly in a forward direction, and is preferably connected directly to the hub carrier. A strut can extend upwardly toward an attachment point for fixing to a chassis, to provide a spring and damper. The support arm can comprise a pair of arms extending divergently from the attachment point to each of the two points. The hub carrier can include a pivot pin extending in a fore/aft alignment, passing through two pivot points on the support arm thereby to define the two points.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Gordon Murray Design Limited
    Inventor: Ian Gordon Murray
  • Patent number: 8678409
    Abstract: A suspension structure includes lower front and rear links arranged to connect a wheel support member to support a wheel and a vehicle body member swingably, and an upper link located above the lower front link and arranged to connect the wheel support member and the vehicle body swingably. There is further provided a connect bush arranged to connect the lower front link and the lower rear link with each other. The connect bush is located below a connection point between the lower front link and the wheel support member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Reo Koide, Keiichi Nakajima, Yoshihiro Kawabe
  • Patent number: 8628101
    Abstract: A bush is adapted to connect a suspension link with a link support member which is one of a wheel support member and a vehicle body member. The bush includes an inner cylinder which extends in a front and rear direction and which is connected with one of the suspension link and the link support member, an outer cylinder which includes an inside circumferential surface confronting an outside circumferential surface of the inner cylinder and which is connected with the other of the suspension link and the link support member, and an elastic member interposed radially between the inner cylinder and the outer cylinder. The inner cylinder is formed with a bulge portion which projects radially outwards from the outside circumferential surface of the inner cylinder at a middle portion of the inner cylinder in an axial direction of the inner cylinder of the link bush.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Reo Koide, Keiichi Nakajima, Yoshihiro Kawabe
  • Patent number: 8622406
    Abstract: The present invention provides an eccentric pivot member for effecting fore and aft movement of a leading end of a trailing beam member of a trailing beam suspension in response to rotation of the pivot member. Ratchet collars are provided which act between the eccentric pivot member and a suspension hanger to mechanically secure the assembly against rotation and any associated inadvertent misalignment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Inventor: Nicholas Eveley
  • Patent number: 8622405
    Abstract: A wheel axle suspension adapted to suspend an axle body of a wheel axle from a vehicle chassis comprises on both sides of the vehicle a bearing bracket arranged on the vehicle chassis. A rigid or flexible trailing arm extends in a longitudinal direction of the vehicle. The trailing arm has a resilient bush at a front end by means of which the trailing arm is hingedly connected to the bearing bracket. The trailing arm furthermore has a contact region essentially complementary to a portion of the outer contour of the axle body, where the axle body, in a fitted position, bears directly against the trailing arm. A support part opposes the contact region of the axle body. The support part is provided with a recess for accommodating the axle body, and is provided with a securing arm extending further towards the rear which is adapted to be secured to a pneumatic spring. Tensioning elements are provided tensioning the support part and the contact region of the trailing arm towards each other against the axle body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: Weweler Nederland B.V.
    Inventors: Derk Geert Aalderink, Geert Everts, Harm Damkot, Hans Bramer
  • Patent number: 8602430
    Abstract: A non-torque reactive trailing arm air suspension system for vehicle driven axle uses a spherical joint between trailing arm and axle as one of four nodes of four bar mechanism which is disposed on both sides of vehicle that maintains substantially constant pinion shaft angle during vehicle operation. The trailing arm is a rolled and formed beam of spring steel and utilizes a vertically resilient length between hanger bracket joint and axle joint to absorb road shocks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Inventors: Rajakumar Subbarayalu, Gowthaman Subbarayalu
  • Patent number: 8590909
    Abstract: A wheelie bar for leaf spring equipped cars includes first and second mounting brackets each having at least one attachment point and one bearing feature. First and second lower side members are pivotally mounted to the mounting brackets. A ground wheel is rotatably mounted to ends of the lower side members. First and second upper side members are pivotally mounted to the mounting brackets and fixedly attached to the lower side members. A vehicle bearing wheel is rotatably mounted to opposite ends of the first and second upper side members. Bearings are provided. A rear support member connects the upper side members and distal ends of the lower side members. At least one elevating facility urges the first and second lower side members upwardly toward an underside of a car. The attachment points have arcuate front ends and are fixedly attached to an axle housing of the car by welding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Inventor: John Calvert
  • Patent number: 8544864
    Abstract: A vehicle suspension assembly that includes a first control arm having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the first control arm is adapted to be pivotally coupled to a first frame member of a vehicle, and wherein the second end of the first control arm is adapted to be pivotally coupled to an axle of the vehicle. The vehicle suspension assembly also includes a second control arm having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the second control arm is adapted to be pivotally coupled to a second frame member of the vehicle, wherein the second end of the second control arm is adapted to be pivotally coupled to the axle of the vehicle. The vehicle suspension assembly also includes a rigid first torsional member coupled to the first control arm along a length of the first control arm, and coupled to the second control arm along a length of the second control arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: SAF-HOLLAND, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark Molitor
  • Patent number: 8528920
    Abstract: An adjustment assembly includes first and second connection points associated with a component. The second connection point is selectively adjustable to adjust a position of the component. A shield has one end coupled to the first connection point and an opposite end proximate to the second connection point to selectively prevent access to the second connection point. The shield is selectively movable when the first connection point is loosened to allow access to the second connection point. To achieve proper adjustment of the component, the first connection point must be loosened prior to adjusting a position of the second connection point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Arvinmeritor Technology, LLC
    Inventors: Gustavo Vieira Borges, Robert J. Brazeau, Christopher J. Wittry, Michael D. Lynch, Michael A. Power, Gregory Todd Smith, Kenneth G. Lang, Anthony E. Nicol, Gregory D. Pavuk, Edward J. Gebal, Thomas S. Mijal, Esequiel Berra de Mello, Christopher S. Keeney, David G. Gonska
  • Patent number: 8523208
    Abstract: An independent suspension with no axle is disclosed which includes a hanger and a control arm having opposite first and second ends pivotally mounted to the hanger between the first and second ends. The suspension unit further includes a spindle arm mounted to the first end of the control arm. The suspension unit also includes a jounce spring on the control arm and a rebound spring mounted between the control arm and the hanger. The control arm and hanger are configured such that when the first end of the control arm pivots towards the frame of the vehicle the jounce spring is compressed and the rebound spring is relaxed and when the first end of the control arm moves away from the frame the jounce spring is relaxed and the rebound spring is compressed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Timbren Industries Inc.
    Inventors: Parto Rezania, Arnold Heron
  • Patent number: 8523207
    Abstract: A method for securing a suspension may include attaching a frame interface device to a vehicle frame and aligning a first connector set. Two first connectors may straddle a second connector, or a first connector may be straddled by two second connectors, when the connector set is aligned. These aligned connectors may be secured by a fastener, thereby securing the suspension to the frame. A suspension attachment system may include a hanger bracket of a suspension, a frame interface device, and a connector set. Two first connectors may straddle a second connector when the connector set is aligned. The suspension may be secured to the frame as a result of the aligned and secured connector set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Watson & Chalin Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Cully B. Dodd
  • Patent number: 8523209
    Abstract: A semi-trailing arm axle for a motor vehicle which comprises a semi-trailing arm (1) for each wheel (4) of the axle. Each semi-trailing arm (1) is flexible about the vertical axis and is mounted to the body or on a support frame by at least one mounting (2, 3). Each wheel (4) of the axle is connected to its respective flexible semi-trailing arm (1) by way of at least one wheel bearing (5), and the flexible semi-trailing arm (1) is the sole wheel-guiding element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Stephan Pollmeyer, Volker Wagner, Gabriele Fruhmann
  • Patent number: 8517140
    Abstract: An independent rear suspension kit includes first and second mounting brackets configured to be fastened to a chassis of a vehicle, a cross-member interconnecting the first and second brackets, a differential housing supported by the cross-member, first and second upper control arms pivotably coupled to the cross-member, first and second lower control arms pivotably coupled to the differential housing, a first upright pivotably coupled to the first upper control arm and the first lower control arm, and a second upright pivotably coupled to the second upper control arm and the second lower control arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Heidts Acquisition, LLC
    Inventors: Vaughn E. D. West, Thomas E. Brown
  • Patent number: 8506199
    Abstract: A structural unit, e.g., a tie rod, that has a tube which is provided with an internal thread, on at least one surface thereof, which is threaded in a first rotational direction, and into the end of which a threaded sleeve is screwed. The threaded sleeve has an internal thread which is threaded in a second direction, opposite to the first rotational direction, and has a shank screwed into the sleeve. The entire threaded sleeve is accommodated within the tube, and the threaded sleeve has a coupling contour on the opening side of the tube. A method of applying the structural unit such that, by rotating the threaded sleeve within the tube, the shank and the tube are moved in opposite directions. In the method, the coupling contour of the threaded sleeve serves to introduce the torque required for rotational motion of the threaded sleeve by way of a tool or an adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Stefan Rump, Andreas Rosengarten, Dirk Sokolihs
  • Patent number: 8490989
    Abstract: An axle-to-beam connection for axle/suspension systems includes a connector having a U-shaped cross section and includes two pairs of legs. Each of the legs is formed with an opening. The connector extends longitudinally along the axle and is also formed with a pair of window weld openings adjacent to the axle. The connector provides a conforming fit of the connector to the axle when the connector is pulled over the axle using the leg openings and is attached to the axle and beam of the axle/suspension system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Hendrickson USA, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Daniel J. Piehl, Kevin J. Erdmann
  • Patent number: 8465036
    Abstract: A suspension includes first and second arms that connect a rigid axle to a frame structure. The first arm has one end configured for connection to a rigid axle structure and an opposite end adapted for connection to one lateral side of the frame structure. The second arm has one end configured for connection to the rigid axle structure and an opposite end adapted for connection to an opposite lateral side of the frame structure. The suspension includes a first air spring associated with the first arm and a second air spring associated with the second arm. The first and second air springs are configured to be positioned laterally outboard of the frame structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: ArvinMeritor Technology, LLC
    Inventors: Michael A. Power, Gregory D. Pavuk
  • Patent number: 8439378
    Abstract: Vehicle suspension assemblies including air spring assemblies and components of the vehicle suspension assemblies are described. A vehicle suspension assembly that is attachable to a pair of vehicle frame rails includes a pair of support beams and a cross member, such as a cross tube, extending between and connected to the pair of support beams. Each support beam includes a locator-tab and each air spring assembly includes a locator-tab-slot for receiving a locator-tab of a support beam. The cross tube is fastened to the air spring assembly via a retention strap that wraps around portions of the cross tube. The locator-tabs and locator-tab-slots may be operable, alone or in combination with the retention strap, as a lateral restraint. In this regard, the lateral restraint may restrain the air spring from moving in a lateral direction between two frame rails to which the vehicle suspension assembly attaches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: Hendrickson USA, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Michael Lynch Phillips, Anthony Joseph Bills
  • Patent number: 8424890
    Abstract: A connection device for the torque transmitting connection of a connection component (2) to a hollow shaft (1). The connection component (2) comprises a penetrating recess (8) corresponding in shape to the outside cross section of the hollow shaft (1) for receiving one end of the hollow shaft (1), and the hollow shaft comprises a press-fit plug (9) in the area of the connection to the connection component (2) that forms an interference fit with the inner cross section of the hollow shaft (1). Preferably, the connection device is a press-fit plug (9) additionally designed as a bearing seat (10, 11) for at least one bearing (13, 14) assigned to the hollow shaft. The connection device allows durable and reliable transmission of high torques and it is possible to connect further components to the connection between the hollow shaft and the connection component. The connection device allows a reduction in construction space, mass and costs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Jens Eismann, Manfred Buhl, Friedhelm Langhorst
  • Patent number: 8419029
    Abstract: An air-ride beam-type axle/suspension system for a heavy-duty vehicle with a gross axle weight rating of greater than 23,000 lbs./axle includes a pair of transversely spaced beams. Each one of the beams includes inboard and outboard sidewalls. A large diameter axle extends between and is rigidly connected to the beams via a pair of axle-to-beam connections. Each one of the axle-to-beam connections includes a sleeve having an increased thickness rigidly connected to the axle and the beam. Each sleeve is formed with at least a front and a rear window located between the beam sidewalls. The inboard and/or outboard edges of the sleeve windows are spaced relatively far from the beam sidewalls. The sleeve windows are asymmetrically angled with respect to the horizontal centerline of the axle at design ride height. The axle/suspension system reduces weight while maintaining desired stiffness and durability of the axle/suspension system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Hendrickson USA, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Brett L. Muckelrath, Donald R. Hester, Sri Satya Teja Kakarla, James J. Patterson, Brian R. Anderson, R. Scott Fulton, Keith D. McComsey, Brian R. Morris
  • Patent number: 8408568
    Abstract: A suspension apparatus includes a first suspension arm having a front end section pivotally supported on a vehicle body. The first suspension arm extends toward a rear of a vehicle from the front end section. A second suspension arm has an outer end section and an inner end section. The outer end section is attached to the first suspension. The inner end section is disposed at an inner side of the outer end section in a vehicle width direction and is pivotally supported on the vehicle body. An elastic joining section is provided on the second suspension arm and connects the second suspension arm to the first suspension arm with a plurality of elastic bodies disposed substantially in parallel in the vehicle width direction. A knuckle is supported by the first suspension arm and the wheel and is supported between the plurality of elastic bodies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Takuya Yanagida
  • Patent number: 8382131
    Abstract: A single wheel suspension of a non-steerable wheel of a two track vehicle includes two links pivotable relative to each other in respective planes, each being inclined less than 10° relative to the longitudinal and vertical directions of the vehicle. A first link, extending approximately in the longitudinal direction, functions as a wheel carrier. The first link is supported with an end section on the vehicle body via a pendulum support, which extends essentially in the vertical direction. The second link, extending approximately in the longitudinal direction, is supported in an articulated manner, on one side, on the body with only one kinematic rotational degree of freedom and on the other side to the first link between the wheel bearing and a pendulum support fastening point with only one kinematic rotational degree of freedom. No other wheel guiding link is provided, except for a connecting element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Elsa Davy, Dirk Schlichte, Jakob Mueller, Bernhard Paulus, Alfred Pruckner, Roland Koenig
  • Publication number: 20130001913
    Abstract: A trailing arm mounting bracket for mounting a trailing arm to a chassis or slider assembly of a vehicle, preferably a commercial vehicle, for example a lorry or a lorry trailer, includes two side plates each having a top end, a bottom end, and an opening in the bottom end for receiving a hinge pin, which side plates are positioned opposite each other with their opening at a mutual distance for receiving an end of the trailing arm in between their respective bottom ends, the side plates being mounted with their respective top ends to an in a mounted condition vertically oriented mounting plate, which mounting plate is arranged to connect the mounting bracket to the chassis or slider assembly, and where a centre of the shortest distance between the two openings in the side plates lies substantially in a plane defined by the body of the mounting plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2010
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Applicant: VDL WEWELER B.V.
    Inventor: Derk Geert Aalderink