Abstract: A leaf spring vehicle suspension system includes a chassis rail and an axle. The suspension system also includes a first stage leaf spring. The suspension system further includes a second stage leaf spring. The suspension system yet further includes a third stage leaf spring operatively coupled at a first end and a second end to the chassis rail, wherein the first stage leaf spring is located below the third stage leaf spring and the second stage leaf spring is located below the first stage leaf spring. The suspension system also include a spacer in abutment with a leaf spring, wherein the spacer is formed of at least one composite material.

Abstract: A releasable alignment clip secures a primary leaf spring to one or more secondary leaf springs of a suspension of a vehicle. The releasable alignment clip prevents separation of the primary leaf spring from the secondary leaf spring during normal operation while permitting relative sliding. The releasable alignment clip has a minimum separation force such that in response to a collision forcing a wheel forwardly, the releasable alignment clip deforms and permits separation of the primary leaf spring from the secondary leaf spring to avoid the primary leaf spring from breaking between the alignment clip and a point of attachment to the vehicle. The releasable alignment clip may have a reduced thickness, notches, or one or more perforations to achieve the minimum separation force.

Abstract: A stroller pull handle system that selectively attaches or built into a four or three wheel stroller that allows a stroller to be pulled by a person walking in front of the stroller. In one embodiment, the handle system includes a transversely aligned support bar that extends between stroller's frame members. In another embodiment, the handle member is U-shaped with two legs that attach to pegs that extend perpendicular from the stroller's frame member. In a third embodiment, the handle member is attached to a peg attached to a clip that attaches to the stroller frame. The handle member may be longitudinally aligned and stacked over the stroller frame when not in use. In a fourth embodiment, the handle member includes an upper section and a lower section pivotally attached. The upper section can be rotated in a rearward direction and used for pushing or rotated forward used for pulling.

Abstract: A passenger trailer apparatus for towing a passenger behind a mobility scooter is provided. The mobility scooter has a tow bar or hitch. The passenger trailer apparatus comprises a trailer frame and an axle mounted to and through the trailer frame. A tire is rotatably, releasably mounted to each end of the axle. The platform has a top surface and a bottom surface with the bottom surface of the platform mounted to the trailer frame. A chair assembly is mounted to the top surface of the platform with the chair assembly sized and shaped for receiving a passenger. A receiver bar having a first end and a second end is provided. The first end of the receiver bar is connected to the platform and the second end of the receiver bar capable of being releasably connected to the tow bar or hitch of the mobility scooter. The passenger trailer apparatus provides secure, reliable performance, quick assembly and breakdown, and easy transport and storage.

Abstract: A powertrain mount assembly configured to connect a powertrain to a side rail of a vehicle frame structure, wherein the powertrain mount assembly comprises: a mounting bracket comprising a first side wall and a second side wall spaced apart from the first side wall, the mounting bracket being configured to receive a resilient member and a bracket arm between the first and second side walls, the bracket arm being connectable to the powertrain; and a first support bracket connectable to a surface of the side rail, wherein the first side wall of the mounting bracket is fastenable to the first support bracket and wherein the first support bracket is configured to be connected to the side rail at a location between the first and second side walls of the mounting bracket.

Abstract: An axel mount for a leaf spring comprises a housing, an aperture, a support, and a mechanical stop. The support runs lengthwise on a shelf of the housing and has a length generally equal to a length of the housing. The mechanical stop is coupled to the support and reduces an amount of vertical deflection allowed to an associated leaf spring. Further, a windup preventer may be coupled to the support that prevents the leaf spring from entering a windup mode.

Abstract: A suspension device for suspension of an axle by an intermediate portion of a single leaf spring has first restriction device which restricts, upon breakage of the leaf spring at a position behind the intermediate portion of the spring, the rear portion of the leaf spring from tilting downwardly relative to a shackle, and a second restriction device for restriction of the shackle from pivotally moving backward beyond a predetermined angle. The first restriction device is constituted by a stopper plate on the shackle for support of the rear portion of the leaf spring from below upon breakage.

Abstract: A vehicle suspension includes a pair of leaf springs arranged to extend longitudinally on opposed sides of a vehicle frame. Each leaf spring has a first end pivotally connected to the vehicle with a first bracket attached rigidly to the frame at a first position. A second end is connected to the vehicle frame with a spring shackle pivotably connected to a second bracket attached rigidly to the frame at a second position, in order to compensate for length changes of the leaf spring under load conditions. The suspension further includes an axle extending transversely of the vehicle frame which axle is mounted to each leaf spring at a position intermediate its first and second ends. At least an upper leaf of the leaf spring is a parabolic spring having a convex portion extending towards the frame, and the convex portion is located between the first end and the intermediate position.

Abstract: An axle suspension for a motor vehicle includes a longitudinal leaf spring made of fiber composite and having ends coupled to the motor vehicle. The leaf spring has an attachment zone and two arms which extend from the attachment zone to the ends of the leaf spring to define a trailing arm and a leading arm in a travel direction of the motor vehicle, with the trailing arm having a cross sectional dimension which is greater than a cross sectional dimension of the leading arm. A clamping device couples an axle component to the leaf spring substantially in midsection of the leaf spring and is arranged offset in longitudinal direction from the midsection of the leaf spring.

Abstract: In a leaf spring arrangement for a chassis of a motor vehicle, a leaf spring includes multiple layers made of a glass fiber composite plastic, a reinforcement made of a carbon composite plastic and being disposed between an upper and a lower one of the layers, and a core made of a different material than the reinforcement and being disposed between the upper and lower layers, wherein the reinforcement is arranged along a longitudinal a side of the core. The leaf spring is coupled at its center region to an axle of the motor vehicle by a center connection and to the vehicle body by bodywork connections, wherein the leaf spring is tilted by an angle relative to the vertical axis of the motor vehicle.

Abstract: A vehicle suspension may include a leaf spring, a link member and a bumper. The leaf spring may include first and second ends and a body extending between the first and second ends. The first end may be pivotably coupled to a first mounting structure and may be configured to pivot relative to a vehicle chassis. The second end may be pivotably coupled to a second mounting structure and may be configured to pivot relative to the vehicle chassis. The body may engage a third mounting structure configured to secure the body relative to a vehicle axle. The link member may include a first end pivotably coupled to the first mounting structure and a second end pivotably coupled to the third mounting structure. The bumper may extend downward from the link member toward the leaf spring.

Abstract: A single-pivot suspension strut axle for a passenger car, includes a wheel carrier/pivot bearing carrying the wheel and a brake disk non-rotatably connected with the wheel relative to a rotational axis thereof. A suspension strut is fastened to the wheel carrier/pivot bearing and, at another end, is supported at the vehicle body. The wheel carrier/pivot bearing is guided by a supporting joint situated close to the wheel center plane by a lower control arm, representing an A-arm, and by a tie rod. A section of the control arm connected with the supporting joint projects through the ring-shaped brake disk. A leaf spring element oriented in the transverse direction of the vehicle provides proportional support for the vehicle body on the wheel, and is supported, on one side, at the control arm and, on another side, directly or indirectly, at the vehicle body.

Abstract: A suspension for a motor vehicle has a sub-frame and first and second control arm movably attached to opposite ends of the sub-frame. A leaf spring extends transversely across the sub-frame, a first end acting on the first control arm and a second end acting on the second control arm. A first spring seat is located between the leaf spring and the sub-frame, and is movable over a first range of positions relative to the leaf spring. A second spring seat is located between the leaf spring and the sub-frame, the second spring seat movable over a second range of positions relative to the leaf spring. An actuator is operatively connected to the first and second spring seats to move the first and second spring seats across their respective ranges of positions, thereby changing a spring rate of the leaf spring.

Abstract: Suspension systems, leaf springs and methods of providing a leaf spring in a suspension system are disclosed. The suspension systems, leaf springs and methods of providing a leaf spring in a suspension system allow use of a lighter weight leaf spring while providing customized roll stiffness and vertical spring rate that are complemented by a bumper that engages the leaf spring assembly when compressed to at least a preselected position.

Abstract: The battery-powered towing tractor includes a front wheel, a rear wheel, a body, a battery, a member plate, a front reinforcing plate and a rear reinforcing plate. The body has a floor formed between the front wheel and the rear wheel. The battery is disposed in the body at a position between the front wheel and the floor. The member plate extends in width direction of the body for compartmenting a rear end of the floor in the body. The front reinforcing plate is joined to a front surface of the member plate. The rear reinforcing plate is joined to a rear surface of the member plate. The front reinforcing plate and the rear reinforcing plate are opposed across the member plate.

Abstract: A vehicle, such as a passenger car, is provided with a vehicle frame having a leaf spring element for the spring suspension of the vehicle, which is mounted on the vehicle frame with two bearing points, which are designed in a manner to adjustably set a spring rate and/or a standing height of the leaf spring element. The leaf spring element is mounted on a frame of the vehicle with the two bearing points and the bearing points are designed adjustable for setting a spring rate and/or a standing height of the leaf spring element.

Abstract: A suspension arrangement for a vehicle including a leaf spring element having a substantially longitudinal configuration. Also included is a deflection limiting element coupled to said leaf spring element at an intermediate location thereof, wherein said deflection limiting element comprises a J-shaped spring element. Further included is a resilient element attached to said J-shaped spring element.

Abstract: A commercial vehicle has its axle housings supported on the chassis frame by way of spring elements. Each spring element is connected to a clamping yoke having two legs, of which in each case one leg rests against the front of the axle housing and the other leg rests against the rear of the axle housing, as seen in the driving direction. The legs are connected to one another by a web. Each leg is fixed and secured on a fixing projection on a longitudinal side of the axle housing, and the web is spaced apart from the upper side of the axle housing.

Abstract: An axle suspension for a motor vehicle includes a longitudinal leaf spring made of fiber composite and having ends coupled to the motor vehicle. The leaf spring has an attachment zone and two arms which extend from the attachment zone to the ends of the leaf spring to define a trailing arm and a leading arm in a travel direction of the motor vehicle, with the trailing arm having a cross sectional dimension which is greater than a cross sectional dimension of the leading arm. A clamping device couples an axle component to the leaf spring substantially in midsection of the leaf spring and is arranged offset in longitudinal direction from the midsection of the leaf spring.

Abstract: A suspension device having a leaf spring and a piston-cylinder unit. The leaf spring has a first end that is movably attached to a frame and a second end pivotally attached to the piston-cylinder unit. In addition, the piston-cylinder unit is pivotally attached to the frame.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a suspension system for a vehicle that includes a primary load bearing system and a secondary load bearing system. The primary load bearing system is disposed between a frame and an axle of the vehicle, and is continually loaded. The secondary load bearing system is also disposed between the frame and the axle of the vehicle, but the secondary load bearing system is operable between a loaded condition and an unloaded condition. During the loaded condition, the secondary load bearing system is contacted by an engaging member attached to the frame such that a load carried by the vehicle is supported by the primary load bearing system and the secondary load bearing system. During the unloaded condition, the secondary load bearing system is isolated from the frame and the axle.

Abstract: A wheel suspension of a motor vehicle includes a transverse leaf spring arranged along a transverse axis of the motor vehicle. The transverse leaf spring is connected via two bearings with a body of the vehicle and is connected in an articulated manner at its two mutually opposite ends with a stub axle or suspension arm. The bearings are arranged such that the transverse leaf spring is stiffly fixed in a direction of a vertical axis of the vehicle and is movable in a translatory manner in a direction of the transverse axis of the vehicle and is rotationally movable around an axis that is parallel to a longitudinal axis of the vehicle.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to the use of EPDM (ethylene-propylene diene monomer) polymer compounds used in place of NR (natural rubber), SBR (styrene butadiene rubber), polyisoprene and other polymers in energy absorption elastomeric systems. In one embodiment a method of continuously manufacturing an EPDM based compound cured via a peroxide based cure system and used in an energy absorption elastomeric system is disclosed. The method includes the steps of forming a continuous part from a compound based on ethylene-propylene diene terpolymer and then curing the part via a continuous process and optionally cutting the final part to the appropriate length. Various advantages are achieved via the use of peroxide cured EPDM as replacements for NR, SBR, polyisoprene and other polymers.

Abstract: An improved traction device for a motor vehicle provides a rear support assembly positioned proximate to a rear axle and an adjacent portion of a leaf spring and a front rocker support assembly. The front rocker support assembly includes a front leaf spring bracket assembly attached to a selected portion of the leaf spring between the axle and the front leaf spring mount, a rocker pivotally attached to the front leaf spring bracket assembly, and a rocker head connected to an end of the rocker for engaging a lower surface of the leaf spring to limit pivotal movement of the front rocker support assembly relative to the front end of the leaf spring, and. An adjustable rigid link extends between the rear support assembly and the front rocker support assembly.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: Vehicle suspension comprising a pair of leaf springs (1) located or locatable on respective opposed side of a vehicle chassis (3) and extending longitudinally thereof, and an anti-roll device (12) which is arranged to extend transversely of the vehicle chassis (3), and means (41, 42, 46) mounting opposed ends (22, 23) of the anti roll device (12) rigidly to respective ones of the pair of opposed leaf springs (1).

Abstract: A vehicle, such as a passenger car, is provided with a vehicle frame having a leaf spring element for the spring suspension of the vehicle, which is mounted on the vehicle frame with two bearing points, which are designed in a manner to adjustably set a spring rate and/or a standing height of the leaf spring element. The leaf spring element is mounted on a frame of the vehicle with the two bearing points and the bearing points are designed adjustable for setting a spring rate and/or a standing height of the leaf spring element.

Abstract: An axle housing (110) for clamping with a clamp assembly (118, 218) to a spring (16, 216) of a suspension system (14) of a vehicle, the clamp assembly having at least two U-bolts (120, 220) each having a curved portion (136, 236) and two generally linear legs (128, 228) extending therefrom, and a clamping plate (122, 222) for receiving and attaching the legs of the U-bolts to form an enclosure that clamps the axle housing (110) to the spring (16, 216), the housing having a generally oval shape in cross section. The axle housing (110) has a generally planar fore side (132), a generally planar aft side (134), a generally rounded top surface (144) and a generally rounded bottom surface (146), wherein at least one of the top surface and the bottom surface are sized and arranged to mate flushly with the curved portion (136) of the U-bolts (120).

Abstract: An apparatus for aligning a spring and axle may include an adjusting bar member for connecting to the spring, a spring pad member for connecting to the axle and a biasing member for biasing the adjusting bar member in a first and second direction. The biasing member may include a threaded bolt, and the biasing member may include a bracket. The biasing member may include a reduced diameter member, and the bracket may include a first arm and a second arm. The adjusting bar member may be substantially L-shaped, and the adjusting bar member may include a first guiding member and a second guiding member. The adjusting bar member may include a slot between the first and second guiding members, and the spring pad member may include a concave curved surface to cooperate with the axle housing.

Abstract: An improved suspension that may be used in any dynamically loaded beam structure, such as a trailer chassis. Specifically, an improved spring hanger and method for attachment are discussed, in which the improved spring hanger is welded to the web of a support beam, where stresses are lower, as opposed to the bottom flange thereof. Methods are provided for welding the spring hanger to said beam alongside as well as in contact with existing, transverse support members.

Abstract: An independent suspension assembly having a wheel support member and upper and lower control arms that is well adapted for use with the front steerable wheels of a large truck. The upper and lower control arms are each pivotally secured to the wheel support member at a first location on the control arm and pivotally supported relative to the frame at a second location on the control arm. The wheel support member is vertically displaceable relative to the frame by pivotal movement of the upper and lower control arms relative to both the frame and wheel support member. A leaf spring and an air spring may be positioned between the lower control arm and frame to communicate loads therebetween. A vertically extending linkage member may be disposed between the lower control arm and frame. The lower control arm may extend across the longitudinal centerline of the vehicle below the engine.

Abstract: A trailer leveling system for adjusting a height of a frame of a trailer above a ground surface is disclosed. The trailer leveling system comprises at least one trailer leveling apparatus configured to adjust a distance between an axle of the trailer and the frame of the trailer. The at least one trailer leveling apparatus acts on a suspension of the trailer. The at least one trailer leveling apparatus moving the suspension between a traveling position and a leveling position, with the traveling position being characterized by the suspension being capable of supporting the frame during movement of the trailer along a road and the leveling position being characterized by a portion of the suspension being moved away from the frame with respect to the travel position.

Abstract: A spring beam suspension system includes a hanger; a flexible spring beam extending between the hanger and an axle; and a generally U-shaped pivot bracket secured to the spring beam, the pivot bracket including opposing legs which are pivotably attached to the hanger. Another spring beam suspension system includes a lift actuator which lifts the axle by applying a biasing force to a portion of the spring beam which extends forward from the hanger. Yet another suspension system has a bushing secured in the hanger, whereby the beam pivots relative to the bushing.

Abstract: Vehicle suspension comprising a pair of leaf springs (1) located or locatable on respective opposed side of a vehicle chassis (3) and extending longitudinally thereof, and an anti-roll device (12) which is arranged to extend transversely of the vehicle chassis (3), and means (41, 42, 46) mounting opposed ends (22, 23) of the anti roll device (12) rigidly to respective ones of the pair of opposed leaf springs (1).

Abstract: A leaf spring for a vehicle suspension is formed from a composite material and includes first and second ends that are longitudinally spaced apart from each other. A resilient element is attached to at least one of the first and second ends. The resilient element includes at least one hole that receives a connecting element. The resilient element and the connecting element cooperate to attach the leaf spring to a vehicle structure. In one example, the resilient element comprises a rubber block that is bonded to the leaf spring. In another example, the resilient element comprises a longitudinally orientated bushing that is inserted through a thickness of the leaf spring.

Abstract: A shackle of a suspension system that connects a leaf spring to a vehicle frame. The shackle pivots, allowing the leaf spring to swing. The shackle is configured so that its effective length changes in response to shock. An elastic member is included in the shackle to resist this change in length and absorb shock.

Abstract: Vehicle suspension comprising a pair of leaf springs (1) located or locatable on respective opposed side of a vehicle chassis (3) and extending longitudinally thereof, and an anti-roll device (12) which is arranged to extend transversely of the vehicle chassis (3), and means (41, 42, 46) mounting opposed ends (22, 23) of the anti roll device (12) rigidly to respective ones of the pair of opposed leaf springs (1).

Abstract: A suspension assembly includes at least one leaf spring with first and second spring ends that are adapted for mounting to forward and rearward vehicle frame portions, respectively. A center portion of the leaf spring is clamped to an axle beam with a clamp. The suspension assembly includes a brake torque reactor that has one end mounted to the center portion of the leaf spring at the axle beam and an opposite end that cooperates with only one of the first and second spring ends to provide resistance for the leaf spring from deforming due to wind up generated during braking applications.

Abstract: An apparatus for automatic lifting of a trailer frame upon failure of the leaf spring support comprising a housing including a first housing element and a second housing element, wherein the second housing element is positioned within and slidably coupled to the first housing element forming the housing; an air bag lifting device positioned within the housing, wherein upon actuation the lifting device exerts force to maintain a distance between the first housing element and the second housing element; and a trigger device coupled to the lifting device wherein the lifting device is actuated by the trigger device.

Abstract: A suspension that has particular application for a front axle of a heavy vehicle includes suspension arms that are better able to withstand increased brake torques that are expected to soon be mandated in heavy vehicles. In one embodiment, the suspension includes a plurality of arms pivotally connected to a vehicle frame, and rigidly secured to an axle. By utilizing the plurality of arms, simple spring elements are better able to withstand the increased brake torques.

Abstract: A light truck support lift which is positioned between the existing leaf spring eyelet and the truck body which incorporates fastener adjustable members for varying the height of the lift.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: An independent suspension assembly having a wheel support member and upper and lower control arms that is well adapted for use with the front steerable wheels of a large truck. The upper and lower control arms are each pivotally secured to the wheel support member at a first location on the control arm and pivotally supported relative to the frame at a second location on the control arm. The wheel support member is vertically displaceable relative to the frame by pivotal movement of the upper and lower control arms relative to both the frame and wheel support member. A leaf spring and an air spring may be positioned between the lower control arm and frame to communicate loads therebetween. A vertically extending linkage member may be disposed between the lower control arm and frame. The lower control arm may extend across the longitudinal centerline of the vehicle below the engine.

Abstract: A traction device for a motor vehicle provides a rear support assembly positioned proximate to a rear axle and an adjacent portion of a leaf spring and a front rocker support assembly. The front rocker support assembly includes a front leaf spring bracket assembly attached to the front leaf spring eye, a pivot stop extending across the upper surface of the leaf spring at a predetermined distance rearward from the leaf spring eye for engaging an upper surface of the leaf spring to limit pivotal movement of the front rocker support assembly relative to the front end of the leaf spring, and a rocker pivotally attached to the front leaf spring bracket assembly. An adjustable rigid link extends between the rear support assembly and the front rocker support assembly.

Abstract: An independent suspension system for a wheeled vehicle includes a modified shock absorber, a leaf spring, and a wheel carrier. The shock absorber includes a cylinder, and a rod passing through the cylinder. The shock absorber is vertically mounted in a condition where the ends of the rod are coupled to the vehicle body. The cylinder of the shock absorber is coupled to the wheel carrier. The leaf spring supports the wheel carrier against rotation on a vertical axis of the vehicle. The leaf spring is elastically twisted to cancel a moment that causes a friction within the shock absorber.

Abstract: A suspension assembly includes at least one leaf spring with first and second spring ends that are adapted for mounting to forward and rearward vehicle frame portions, respectively. A center portion of the leaf spring is clamped to an axle beam with a clamp. The suspension assembly includes a brake torque reactor that has one end mounted to the center portion of the leaf spring at the axle beam and an opposite end that cooperates with only one of the first and second spring ends to provide resistance for the leaf spring from deforming due to wind up generated during braking applications.

Abstract: An engine and rear axle are mounted on a drive train sub-frame of a utility vehicle, with two generally parallel plates spaced from each other on the first end of the drive train sub-frame. A cross bolt extends laterally between the two plates and through an opening in a retainer attached to the main frame of the utility vehicle. The retainer opening has a height and width larger than the diameter of the cross bolt.

Abstract: A leaf spring suspension includes a plurality of leaf springs fixedly secured together by a bolt in the form of a stack. A first leaf spring of the plurality of leaf springs has ends configured to be coupled to a vehicle frame. A pin extends through each leaf spring except for the first leaf spring to prevent splaying between the leaf springs during transverse loading of the suspension.

Abstract: A wheel suspension for vehicles that includes leaf spring assemblies mounted in pairs on each side of the vehicle in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle and also at least one damper device mounted on the vehicle in conjunction with at least one wheel axle. The wheel suspension also has a central section of each leaf spring assembly which is mounted rotatably relative to an attachment device fixed to the vehicle, the ends of each leaf spring assembly being attached movably relative to the vehicle, where at least one of the ends of each leaf spring assembly supports a wheel axle and a damper device.

Abstract: A bolster spring assembly is adapted for securement to a vehicle having a primary suspension system for securing an axle to the vehicle. The bolster spring assembly is located and secured between the leaf spring over the axle and the undercarriage of the vehicle as a supplement to the primary suspension system.