Connection Detail Patents (Class 280/124.175)
  • Patent number: 11198326
    Abstract: Axle system for use in utility vehicles includes a suspension arm and a clamping unit, wherein the clamping unit has a base element and a clamping element, wherein the base element is substantially arranged on a first side and the clamping element on the second side of the suspension arm lying opposite the first side, wherein the base element is configured to be secured to an axle element, and wherein a tensile element is configured to apply a tensile force between the clamping element and the base element, such that the suspension arm is held by force fit between the clamping element and the base element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2021
    Assignee: SAF-HOLLAND, GmbH
    Inventors: Jean Khoury, Christopher Nagel
  • Patent number: 11130379
    Abstract: An axle-to-beam connection for a suspension assembly of an axle/suspension system of a heavy-duty vehicle including an axle, a beam, and a top pad. The beam includes an alignment assembly for aligning the axle with the beam. The top pad includes an integrally-formed bump stop boss and is fixedly attached to the axle and removably attached to the alignment assembly of the beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2021
    Assignee: Hendrickson USA, L.L.C.
    Inventors: David E. Miller, Andrew J. Westnedge
  • Publication number: 20150115565
    Abstract: The invention relates to an axle fixation, an axle plate (5), and an axle link (2) for a sprung vehicle axle. The components of the axle fixation are a preferably tubular axle body (1), an axle link (2) which crosses the upper face and lower face of the axle body, the axle plate (5) which is arranged in the crossing region between the axle body (1) and the axle link (2), and traction elements for pulling the axle body (1) and the axle link (2) against each other, thereby deforming the axle plate (5).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2013
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Applicant: BPW Bergische Achsen KG
    Inventors: Hans-Werner Kopplow, Thomas Kriegeskotte, Manfred Michels
  • Patent number: 9016705
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Inventor: John Prikkel, III
  • Publication number: 20150097352
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an undercarriage of a person powered wheeled vehicle and, more particularly, to a cantilevered spring for absorbing shock and vibration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2014
    Publication date: April 9, 2015
    Inventor: Paul Ivazes
  • Publication number: 20150084303
    Abstract: A vehicle suspension subsystem is provided having a leafspring that is mounted to a vehicle frame with a clevis type mounting bracket. An end of the leafspring includes an eyelet which receives a bushing, the bushing in turn receiving a pivot. The clevis type mounting bracket is mounted to the vehicle frame and consists of a metal plate fastened to an L-shaped casted bracket. The metal plate and L-shaped casted bracket have aligned apertures which define a pivot axis. With the pivot being located in the bushing and the bushing located in the eyelet of the leafspring, one end of the pivot is disposed in the aperture of the metal plate and the other end is disposed in the aperture of the L-shaped casted bracket, allowing the leafspring to rotate about the pivot axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2013
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: John Edward LeMerise, Blake Frost
  • Patent number: 8979105
    Abstract: An adjustable spring mounting assembly includes first and second alignment correction plates. A spacer is sandwiched between the two correction plates. First and second fasteners connect the assembly to a vehicle spring hanger bracket. A third fastener connects the assembly to a vehicle leaf spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: BBS Development, LLC
    Inventors: Robert E. McCarthy, Robert F. Mater, Jr., Auldreg R. Dismuke
  • Patent number: 8973933
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Assignees: Hino Motors, Ltd., NHK Spring Co., Ltd., Horikiri, Inc.
    Inventors: Mitsuru Enomoto, Mamoru Akeda, Nobuhiro Shibuya
  • Patent number: 8950766
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignees: Benteler-Automobiltechnik GmbH, Benteler SGL GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Stephan Schönen, Hendrik Reineke, Ulrich Müller, Jan Kurz, Johannes Böke, Rodscha Drabon, Armin Zuber
  • Patent number: 8925958
    Abstract: This invention relates to central hanger brackets and equalizers for tandem suspension, used in trucks, trailers and semi-trailers, provided with spring pack arranged on the axles of the vehicle comprising an equalizer, provided with an intermediate area located in the upper part of the body, said area coupling to a surface arranged in the central hanger bracket. The set promotes a structural arrangement that allows the articulation of said equalizer, and eliminates the use of fixing pins, bushings or screws to attach said set to said central hanger bracket, in order to simplify the system and reduce the number of components, providing better conditions for the durability and maintenance of the suspension and thus reducing the operating cost and the cost of the product itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: Suspensys Sistemas Automotivos Ltda.
    Inventor: Joao Felipe de Souza Araujo
  • Patent number: 8919795
    Abstract: A suspension for a vehicle having a chassis rail and a longitudinal axle arranged substantially orthogonal thereto. The vehicle suspension has a primary spring, which may be a leaf spring having a first end for pivotally coupling to the chassis of the vehicle at a first primary pivot coupling, and a distal second end for pivotally coupling to the chassis of the vehicle at a second primary pivot coupling. The primary spring can be a coil spring. A secondary leaf spring has a first end for pivotally coupling to the chassis of the vehicle at a secondary pivot coupling, and a second end for coupling to the axle. The longitudinal configuration of the secondary leaf spring is arranged to be angularly displaced with respect to the longitudinal configuration of the primary leaf spring. The first primary pivot coupling and the secondary pivot coupling are arranged to be substantially coplanar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Rassini, S.A. de C.V.
    Inventor: James Andrew Juriga
  • Patent number: 8882120
    Abstract: A suspension for a vehicle having a chassis rail and a longitudinal axle arranged substantially orthogonal thereto. The vehicle suspension has a primary air-responsive spring that couples between the chassis and the axle of the vehicle. The primary spring can be a coil spring that surrounds an air helper spring. A secondary leaf spring has a first end for pivotally coupling to the chassis of the vehicle at a secondary pivot coupling, and a second end for coupling to the axle. The longitudinal configuration of the secondary leaf spring can be arranged to be angularly displaced with respect to a chassis rail of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Assignee: Sanluis Rassini International, Inc.
    Inventors: James Andrew Juriga, Slawomir M. Zieleniec, Graham R. Brookes
  • Publication number: 20140265207
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventor: John Prikkel, III
  • Patent number: 8827289
    Abstract: An axle mounting assembly for coupling a vehicle axle to an energy storing suspension component. The assembly includes a mounting pad, and a longitudinally extending energy storing suspension component such as a leaf spring is vertically aligned with respect to the mounting pad. An axle seat bracket is vertically aligned with and spaced from the mounting pad. The axle is transversely mounted to the axle seat bracket which includes at least one horizontally aligned open passage that is aligned parallel to the axle and which receives a U-shaped fastener assembly for coupling the axle and axle seat bracket to the mounting pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Hendrickson USA, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Damon Elwood Dilworth, Michael Paul Bloink, Ashley Thomas Dudding, Sammy C. Lumetta
  • Patent number: 8820760
    Abstract: A wheel axle suspension comprises an axle body, a flexible trailing arm extending crosswise to the axle body, an axle pad arranged between the axle body and the trailing arm, and a clamping assembly for tightening the axle body, the axle pad and the trailing arm together. The axle body is provided with an elongated indent in the region where it is clamped, which indent extends in a longitudinal direction of the axle body. The axle pad has an elongate protrusion that fits in the indent in the axle body. The axle pad furthermore has a rigid rear portion, which comprises a rear engagement zone engaging on the rear half of the axle body, and a front portion which comprises a front engagement zone engaging on the front half of the axle body. The axle pad comprises a flexible intermediate portion interconnecting the front and the rear portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: VDL Weweler B.V.
    Inventors: Derk Geert Aalderink, Rutger William Tijhuis, Paulus Kruijer
  • Patent number: 8777247
    Abstract: A wheel suspension device for a motor vehicle is provided. The wheel suspension device includes a wheel guiding device which is provided for connection to the motor vehicle and to a wheel. The wheel suspension device has a spring device, in one example, a leaf spring device, which at a first coupling point is connected to a coupling device in an articulated manner. The coupling device is connected to the wheel guiding device at a second coupling point in an articulated manner, and a coupling device axis is defined by a straight line through the first and through the second coupling point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Dirk Ehrlich, Hartmut Hoelzel
  • Patent number: 8720923
    Abstract: A vehicle suspension lift kit includes a first suspension lift component having a first interlocking pattern, and a second suspension lift component having a second interlocking pattern. The first and second interlocking patterns are selectively engagable with one another to prevent relative motion among the first and second components along an interfacial plane. Each of the first and second suspension lift components are specifically configured to be employed individually or in combination between a vehicular suspension and a vehicular axle to provide a selected extent of suspension lift.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Stempf Automotive Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: John Ryshavy, James Ryshavy, Shawn Christopher Miller
  • Patent number: 8678410
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Volvo Car Corporation
    Inventors: Kjell Sjoesten, Ake Malm
  • Patent number: 8668215
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: Rassini S.A. de C.V.
    Inventor: James Andrew Juriga
  • Patent number: 8662511
    Abstract: A suspension device for suspension of an axle 2 by an intermediate portion of a single leaf spring 5 has first restriction means which restricts, upon breakage of the leaf spring 5 at a position behind the intermediate portion of the spring, the rear portion of the leaf spring 5 from tilting downwardly relative to a shackle 6, and a second restriction means (retainer pawl 13) for restriction of the shackle 6 from pivotally moving backward beyond a predetermined angle. The first restriction means is constituted by a bush 12 with projections 12b which is arranged at a connection between the shackle 6 and the rear end of the leaf spring 5 for integral rotation with the rear end of the leaf spring 5 and engages with the shackle 6 at a predetermined rotary position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignees: Hino Motors, Ltd., NHK Spring Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Mitsuru Enomoto, Naoshi Sato, Yoshiharu Sugawara, Nobuhiro Shibuya
  • Patent number: 8641065
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toyota Jidoshokki
    Inventor: Seiji Uno
  • Patent number: 8632078
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Dirk Ehrlich, Richard Starck, Veit Held
  • Patent number: 8590912
    Abstract: An adjustable spring mounting assembly includes first and second alignment correction plates. A spacer is sandwiched between the two correction plates. First and second fasteners connect the assembly to a vehicle spring hanger bracket. A third fastener connects the assembly to a vehicle leaf spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: BBS Development, LLC
    Inventors: Robert E. McCarthy, Robert F. Mater, Jr., Auldreg R. Dismuke
  • Publication number: 20130292919
    Abstract: A vehicle suspension lift kit includes a first suspension lift component having a first interlocking pattern, and a second suspension lift component having a second interlocking pattern. The first and second interlocking patterns are selectively engagable with one another to prevent relative motion among the first and second components along an interfacial plane. Each of the first and second suspension lift components are specifically configured to be employed individually or in combination between a vehicular suspension and a vehicular axle to provide a selected extent of suspension lift.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2013
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Inventors: John Ryshavy, James Ryshavy, Shawn Christopher Miller
  • Patent number: 8567772
    Abstract: An adjustable spring mounting assembly having a first lug with a first elongated opening with a first channel and a second lug with a second elongated opening and a second channel. A mounting pin extends through the first and second elongated openings. First and second spacers received in the first and second channels hold the mounting pin in one of at least two mounting positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: BBS Development, LLC
    Inventors: Robert E. McCarthy, Robert F. Mater, Jr., Auldreg R. Dismuke
  • Patent number: 8540263
    Abstract: The present patent of invention refers to a rear bogie-type suspension used preferably in trucks, having a pivoting bearing (1) disposed on upper part of the spring pack (2), positioned between the two axles and laterally on each side of the chassis (5), said pivoting bearing (1) comprised of an anchor pin (3) fastened to a hanger (4) and to the chassis (5), in a robust manner to withstand the extreme strains to which this kind of suspension is normally submitted, also favoring assembly conditions, weight reduction, reduced consumption of materials and labor, also having an axle rebound stop (6) in combination with spring pack (2) in order to provide greater safety and durability to its components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Suspensys Sistemas Automotivos Ltda.
    Inventor: Remi Pizzeta
  • Patent number: 8505942
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Todd Rupert Muck
  • Patent number: 8485542
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Chrysler Group LLC
    Inventors: Forest H. Nine, Glenn A. Whitehead
  • Patent number: 8485543
    Abstract: An independent suspension and steering system that can be used with a large truck. The suspension system includes a transversely extending leaf spring assembly. The midpoint of the leaf spring assembly is secured at the centerline of the vehicle while the two opposing ends of the leaf spring assembly are shackled to vertically moveable carriers on which the steering knuckles are pivotally mounted. The steering unit includes a transversely extending relay rod which is attached to tie rods at its opposite ends. The tie rods are, in turn, attached to the steering knuckles. In some embodiments, at least one steering gear is coupled with the relay rod via a connecting rod that is secured at one end to the rotating output shaft of the steering gear and secured at its other end to the relay rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Reyco Granning, LLC
    Inventors: Gregory A. Richardson, John A. Hinz, Richard Lee Conaway
  • Patent number: 8480108
    Abstract: A vehicle suspension lift kit includes a first suspension lift component having a first interlocking pattern, and a second suspension lift component having a second interlocking pattern. The first and second interlocking patterns are selectively engagable with one another to prevent relative motion among the first and second components along an interfacial plane. Each of the first and second suspension lift components are specifically configured to be employed individually or in combination between a vehicular suspension and a vehicular axle to provide a selected extent of suspension lift.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Stempf Automotive Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: John W. Ryshavy, Shawn Christopher Miller, James R. Ryshavy
  • Patent number: 8459676
    Abstract: A bearing mechanism (4) for a transverse leaf spring (1) for mounting in the region of a vehicle axle of a vehicle. The bearing mechanism (4) has two outer bearing shells (6, 7) that can be connected together and insertion devices (9, 10) with at least some regions of which are encompassed by the outer bearing shells (6, 7) and which each comprise at least two layer elements (9A, 9B, 9C and 10A, 10B, 10C) with different stiffnesses. In the assembled state, the insertion devices (9, 10) are each disposed between the outer bearing shells (6, 7) and the transverse leaf spring (1). The insertion devices (9, 10) can be connected to the outer bearing shells (6, 7) and the transverse leaf spring (1), via a bolt device (8) which connects the outer bearing shells (6, 7) together and to a vehicle chassis at least in a force locking manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Jens Heimann, Andreas Vossel, David Vopel, Volker Wagner, Gabriele Fruhmann
  • Publication number: 20130140786
    Abstract: A suspension device for suspension of an axle 2 by an intermediate portion of a single leaf spring 5 has first restriction means which restricts, upon breakage of the leaf spring 5 at a position behind the intermediate portion of the spring, the rear portion of the leaf spring 5 from tilting downwardly relative to a shackle 6, and a second restriction means (retainer pawl 13) for restriction of the shackle 6 from pivotally moving backward beyond a predetermined angle. The first restriction means is constituted by a stopper plate 12 (stopper) on the shackle 6 for support of the rear portion of the leaf spring 5 from below upon breakage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2011
    Publication date: June 6, 2013
    Applicants: HINO MOTORS, LTD., HORIKIRI, Inc., NHK SPRING CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Mitsuru Enomoto, Mamoru Akeda, Nobuhiro Shibuya
  • Publication number: 20130127133
    Abstract: A suspension device for suspension of an axle 2 by an intermediate portion of a single leaf spring 5 has first restriction means which restricts, upon breakage of the leaf spring 5 at a position behind the intermediate portion of the spring, the rear portion of the leaf spring 5 from tilting downwardly relative to a shackle 6, and a second restriction means (retainer pawl 13) for restriction of the shackle 6 from pivotally moving backward beyond a predetermined angle. The first restriction means is constituted by a bush 12 with projections 12b which is arranged at a connection between the shackle 6 and the rear end of the leaf spring 5 for integral rotation with the rear end of the leaf spring 5 and engages with the shackle 6 at a predetermined rotary position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2011
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Applicants: NHK SPRING CO., LTD., HINO MOTORS, LTD.
    Inventors: Mitsuru Enomoto, Naoshi Sato, Yoshiharu Sugawara, Nobuhiro Shibuya
  • Patent number: 8444163
    Abstract: A bearing mechanism for a transverse leaf spring that can be mounted in the region of an axle of a vehicle. The bearing mechanism has an outer bearing shell device and insertion devices which are at least partially encompassed by the outer bearing shell device and comprise layer elements with different stiffnesses. In the assembled state, the insertion devices are each disposed between the outer bearing shell device and the transverse leaf spring. In the region of a support surface of the transverse leaf spring, a recess is formed for each of the insertion devices in which the insertion devices engage in a form-locking manner. The insertion devices are each formed in the contact surfaces facing the support surfaces of the transverse leaf spring, having at least one receiving device into which, in the assembled state of the insertion devices, a region of the transverse leaf spring engages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Gabriele Fruhmann, Volker Wagner, Peter Hofmann, Jens Heimann
  • Patent number: 8444162
    Abstract: A bearing mechanism for a transverse leaf spring that can be mounted near an axle of a vehicle. The bearing mechanism has an outer bearing shell device and insertion devices which have at least some regions encompassed by the outer bearing shell device. Each of the insertion devices comprise at least two layer elements which have different stiffness. In the assembled state, the insertion devices are each disposed between the outer bearing shell device and the transverse leaf spring. The outer bearing shell device comprises a one-piece bearing ring element, and the insertion devices can be operatively connected, at least in a force locking manner, to the bearing ring element and the transverse leaf spring, via tensioning elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Gabriele Fruhmann, Volker Wagner, Jens Heimann
  • Patent number: 8434747
    Abstract: A suspension system for supporting fore- and aft extending frame members of a vehicle chassis on a hollow axle, the system on one side of the vehicle being duplicated on the opposite side. Included in the suspension on each side are: (1) a frame bracket for pivotally supporting the fore or leading end of an asymmetric leaf spring; (2) a spring end support mounted on the frame side member for supporting the aft or trailing end of the leaf spring, and (3) a suitable assembly for attaching the leaf spring at a location intermediate its opposite ends to the axle so that the spring is divided into two cantilever limbs extending in opposite directions from the center line of the axle. The spring is formed so that one of the cantilever limbs has a stiffness substantially greater than the stiffness of the other limb. In all forms, at least one leaf of the asymmetric spring extends the full length of the spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: Hendrickson USA, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Ashley T. Dudding, Lawrence E Miller, William Wilson
  • Publication number: 20130049319
    Abstract: A vehicle suspension lift kit includes a first suspension lift component having a first interlocking pattern, and a second suspension lift component having a second interlocking pattern. The first and second interlocking patterns are selectively engagable with one another to prevent relative motion among the first and second components along an interfacial plane. Each of the first and second suspension lift components are specifically configured to be employed individually or in combination between a vehicular suspension and a vehicular axle to provide a selected extent of suspension lift.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2012
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Inventors: John W. Ryshavy, Shawn Christopher Miller, James R. Ryshavy
  • Patent number: 8360453
    Abstract: A bearing mechanism for a transverse leaf spring mounted near a vehicle axle of a vehicle. The bearing mechanism has an outer bearing shell device and insertion devices, which are encompassed by the outer bearing shell device and comprise layer elements of different stiffness. The insertion devices are each disposed between the outer bearing shell device and the transverse leaf spring. First layer elements have a greater stiffness and are positioned between the transverse leaf spring and second layer elements with lower stiffness. The first layer elements are half-shell shaped and convex between end regions and oriented in the axial direction of the transverse leaf spring. The end regions of the first layer elements comprise regions that are concave with respect to the surface of the leaf spring, and free ends of which point away from the surface of the leaf spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Gabriele Fruhmann, Hartmut Werries, Peter Hofmann, Christoph Elbers
  • Patent number: 8360452
    Abstract: A link of a vehicle suspension is elastic and includes three suspension points. A first point is adapted to be pivotally connected to a wheel carrier of the corresponding vehicle. A second point is adapted to be pivotally connected to a rigid chassis of the corresponding vehicle. The third point is adapted to be pivotally connected to a shackle, the shackle pivotally connecting the third point to the rigid chassis of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Johann Kettenberger, Norbert Seyr, Andreas Obieglo, John Ziegert, Beshah Ayalew, Vincent Lee, Souharda Raghavendra
  • Patent number: 8360454
    Abstract: A bearing mechanism for a transverse leaf spring that can be mounted in the region of an axle of a vehicle. The bearing mechanism comprises an outer bearing shell and insertion devices which have at least some regions encompassed by the outer bearing shell, and which each comprise layered elements having different stiffness. When assembled, the insertion devices are disposed between the outer bearing shell and the leaf spring. The leaf spring has a recess into which sections of the insertion devices engage. The recesses are located on opposed top and bottom surfaces of the leaf spring, with respect to a vertical axis of the vehicle. In the mounted state of the leaf spring, the recesses are delimited by top and bottom edge regions that are formed between top, bottom and lateral surfaces, in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Gabriele Fruhmann, Volker Wagner, Jens Heimann, Peter Hofmann
  • Patent number: 8356827
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toyota Jidoshokki
    Inventor: Mitsumasa Takeda
  • Patent number: 8317211
    Abstract: A vehicle suspension lift kit includes a first suspension lift component having a first interlocking pattern, and a second suspension lift component having a second interlocking pattern. The first and second interlocking patterns are selectively matingly engagable with one another to prevent relative motion among the first and second components along an interfacial plane. Each of the first and second suspension lift components are specifically configured to be employed individually or in combination between a vehicular leaf spring suspension and a vehicular axle housing to provide a selected extent of suspension lift.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Stempf Automotive Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: John W. Ryshavy, Shawn Christopher Miller, James R. Ryshavy
  • Patent number: 8276928
    Abstract: A console is provided for attachment to a vehicle chassis. The console includes a bracket body for a truck. The bracket body is formed by a casting which at least partly encloses a cavity for storing a fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Volvo Lastvagnar AB
    Inventors: Jan Hendriks, Roland Svensson
  • Patent number: 8256782
    Abstract: A vehicle suspension system includes a frame mounting bracket. A torsion axle is pivotally attached to the frame mounting bracket. The torsion axle pivots about a suspension assembly pivot axis. An air spring support arm is rigidly attached to the torsion axle. An air spring is attached at one end to the frame mounting bracket and at an end of the support arm opposite the suspension assembly pivot axis. A spindle arm with a spindle is adapted for mounting a wheel assembly is attached to the torsion axle. The vehicle suspension system is adapted to include an optional cross-member brace adapted to attach to the frame mounting bracket allowing the cross-member brace to extend across a width of a vehicle to an adjacent vehicle suspension assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: Air Suspensions, Inc.
    Inventors: Ervin K. VanDenberg, David H. Croston
  • Patent number: 8251401
    Abstract: A personal transport cart is disclosed. The cart is provided with a collapsible steering mechanism to lock the steered wheels for allowing alignment of the cart during the loading and unloading of the cart on a transport vehicle. Furthermore, the rear wheel can be locked against movement during the transportation of the cart on the transport vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Inventor: James J. Miller
  • Patent number: 8226099
    Abstract: A connection system for connecting a supporting arm to an axle body comprises a first and a second supporting element each having a reinforced region, wherein the first and second supporting elements cooperate to substantially enclose the axle body, and wherein contact regions created between the first and second supporting elements are substantially vertically aligned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: SAF-Holland GmbH
    Inventor: Hubert B. Koschinat
  • Publication number: 20120153593
    Abstract: A bearing mechanism for a transverse leaf spring that can be mounted in the region of an axle of a vehicle. The bearing mechanism has an outer bearing shell device and insertion devices which are at least partially encompassed by the outer bearing shell device and comprise layer elements with different stiffnesses. In the assembled state, the insertion devices are each disposed between the outer bearing shell device and the transverse leaf spring. In the region of a support surface of the transverse leaf spring, a recess is formed for each of the insertion devices in which the insertion devices engage in a form-locking manner. The insertion devices are each formed in the contact surfaces facing the support surfaces of the transverse leaf spring, having at least one receiving device into which, in the assembled state of the insertion devices, a region of the transverse leaf spring engages.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2010
    Publication date: June 21, 2012
    Applicant: ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AG
    Inventors: Gabriele Fruhmann, Volker Wagner, Peter Hofmann, Jens Heimann
  • Publication number: 20120153594
    Abstract: A bearing mechanism (4) for a transverse leaf spring (1) for mounting in the region of a vehicle axle of a vehicle. The bearing mechanism (4) has two outer bearing shells (6, 7) that can be connected together and insertion devices (9, 10) with at least some regions of which are encompassed by the outer bearing shells (6, 7) and which each comprise at least two layer elements (9A, 9B, 9C and 10A, 10B, 10C) with different stiffnesses. In the assembled state, the insertion devices (9, 10) are each disposed between the outer bearing shells (6, 7) and the transverse leaf spring (1). The insertion devices (9, 10) can be connected to the outer bearing shells (6, 7) and the transverse leaf spring (1), via a bolt device (8) which connects the outer bearing shells (6, 7) together and to a vehicle chassis at least in a force locking manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2010
    Publication date: June 21, 2012
    Applicant: ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AG
    Inventors: Jens Heimann, Andreas Vossel, David Vopel, Volker Wagner, Gabriele Fruhmann
  • Publication number: 20120146310
    Abstract: A bearing mechanism for a transverse leaf spring that can be mounted in the region of an axle of a vehicle. The bearing mechanism comprises an outer bearing shell and insertion devices which have at least some regions encompassed by the outer bearing shell, and which each comprise layered elements having different stiffness. When assembled, the insertion devices are disposed between the outer bearing shell and the leaf spring. The leaf spring has a recess into which sections of the insertion devices engage. The recesses are located on opposed top and bottom surfaces of the leaf spring, with respect to a vertical axis of the vehicle. In the mounted state of the leaf spring, the recesses are delimited by top and bottom edge regions that are formed between top, bottom and lateral surfaces, in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2010
    Publication date: June 14, 2012
    Applicant: ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AG
    Inventors: Gabriele Fruhmann, Volker Wagner, Jens Heimann, Peter Hofmann
  • Publication number: 20120146309
    Abstract: A bearing mechanism for a transverse leaf spring mounted near a vehicle axle of a vehicle. The bearing mechanism has an outer bearing shell device and insertion devices, which are encompassed by the outer bearing shell device and comprise layer elements of different stiffness. The insertion devices are each disposed between the outer bearing shell device and the transverse leaf spring. First layer elements have a greater stiffness and are positioned between the transverse leaf spring and second layer elements with lower stiffness. The first layer elements are half-shell shaped and convex between end regions and oriented in the axial direction of the transverse leaf spring. The end regions of the first layer elements comprise regions that are concave with respect to the surface of the leaf spring, and free ends of which point away from the surface of the leaf spring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2010
    Publication date: June 14, 2012
    Applicant: ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AG
    Inventors: Gabriele Fruhmann, Hartmut Werries, Peter Hofmann, Christoph Elbers