Connection Detail Patents (Class 280/124.175)
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Patent number: 11198326Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 21, 2017Date of Patent: December 14, 2021Assignee: SAF-HOLLAND, GmbHInventors: Jean Khoury, Christopher Nagel
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Patent number: 11130379Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 28, 2019Date of Patent: September 28, 2021Assignee: Hendrickson USA, L.L.C.Inventors: David E. Miller, Andrew J. Westnedge
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Publication number: 20150115565Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: May 2, 2013Publication date: April 30, 2015Applicant: BPW Bergische Achsen KGInventors: Hans-Werner Kopplow, Thomas Kriegeskotte, Manfred Michels
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Patent number: 9016705Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 13, 2014Date of Patent: April 28, 2015Inventor: John Prikkel, III
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Publication number: 20150097352Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: July 2, 2014Publication date: April 9, 2015Inventor: Paul Ivazes
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Publication number: 20150084303Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: September 24, 2013Publication date: March 26, 2015Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLCInventors: John Edward LeMerise, Blake Frost
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Patent number: 8979105Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 25, 2013Date of Patent: March 17, 2015Assignee: BBS Development, LLCInventors: Robert E. McCarthy, Robert F. Mater, Jr., Auldreg R. Dismuke
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Patent number: 8973933Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 26, 2011Date of Patent: March 10, 2015Assignees: Hino Motors, Ltd., NHK Spring Co., Ltd., Horikiri, Inc.Inventors: Mitsuru Enomoto, Mamoru Akeda, Nobuhiro Shibuya
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Patent number: 8950766Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 27, 2013Date of Patent: February 10, 2015Assignees: Benteler-Automobiltechnik GmbH, Benteler SGL GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Stephan Schönen, Hendrik Reineke, Ulrich Müller, Jan Kurz, Johannes Böke, Rodscha Drabon, Armin Zuber
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Patent number: 8925958Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 12, 2013Date of Patent: January 6, 2015Assignee: Suspensys Sistemas Automotivos Ltda.Inventor: Joao Felipe de Souza Araujo
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Patent number: 8919795Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 7, 2008Date of Patent: December 30, 2014Assignee: Rassini, S.A. de C.V.Inventor: James Andrew Juriga
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Patent number: 8882120Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 7, 2008Date of Patent: November 11, 2014Assignee: Sanluis Rassini International, Inc.Inventors: James Andrew Juriga, Slawomir M. Zieleniec, Graham R. Brookes
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Publication number: 20140265207Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: March 13, 2014Publication date: September 18, 2014Inventor: John Prikkel, III
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Patent number: 8827289Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 15, 2013Date of Patent: September 9, 2014Assignee: Hendrickson USA, L.L.C.Inventors: Damon Elwood Dilworth, Michael Paul Bloink, Ashley Thomas Dudding, Sammy C. Lumetta
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Patent number: 8820760Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 20, 2012Date of Patent: September 2, 2014Assignee: VDL Weweler B.V.Inventors: Derk Geert Aalderink, Rutger William Tijhuis, Paulus Kruijer
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Patent number: 8777247Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: October 17, 2012Date of Patent: July 15, 2014Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Dirk Ehrlich, Hartmut Hoelzel
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Patent number: 8720923Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 2, 2013Date of Patent: May 13, 2014Assignee: Stempf Automotive Industries, Inc.Inventors: John Ryshavy, James Ryshavy, Shawn Christopher Miller
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Patent number: 8678410Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: May 8, 2012Date of Patent: March 25, 2014Assignee: Volvo Car CorporationInventors: Kjell Sjoesten, Ake Malm
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Patent number: 8668215Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: June 18, 2007Date of Patent: March 11, 2014Assignee: Rassini S.A. de C.V.Inventor: James Andrew Juriga
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Patent number: 8662511Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 26, 2011Date of Patent: March 4, 2014Assignees: Hino Motors, Ltd., NHK Spring Co., LtdInventors: Mitsuru Enomoto, Naoshi Sato, Yoshiharu Sugawara, Nobuhiro Shibuya
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Patent number: 8641065Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 3, 2010Date of Patent: February 4, 2014Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toyota JidoshokkiInventor: Seiji Uno
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Patent number: 8632078Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 28, 2011Date of Patent: January 21, 2014Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Dirk Ehrlich, Richard Starck, Veit Held
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Patent number: 8590912Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 17, 2010Date of Patent: November 26, 2013Assignee: BBS Development, LLCInventors: Robert E. McCarthy, Robert F. Mater, Jr., Auldreg R. Dismuke
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Publication number: 20130292919Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: July 2, 2013Publication date: November 7, 2013Inventors: John Ryshavy, James Ryshavy, Shawn Christopher Miller
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Patent number: 8567772Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 4, 2010Date of Patent: October 29, 2013Assignee: BBS Development, LLCInventors: Robert E. McCarthy, Robert F. Mater, Jr., Auldreg R. Dismuke
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Patent number: 8540263Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 21, 2011Date of Patent: September 24, 2013Assignee: Suspensys Sistemas Automotivos Ltda.Inventor: Remi Pizzeta
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Patent number: 8505942Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: January 31, 2011Date of Patent: August 13, 2013Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.Inventor: Todd Rupert Muck
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Patent number: 8485542Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 9, 2012Date of Patent: July 16, 2013Assignee: Chrysler Group LLCInventors: Forest H. Nine, Glenn A. Whitehead
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Patent number: 8485543Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 26, 2010Date of Patent: July 16, 2013Assignee: Reyco Granning, LLCInventors: Gregory A. Richardson, John A. Hinz, Richard Lee Conaway
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Patent number: 8480108Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 19, 2012Date of Patent: July 9, 2013Assignee: Stempf Automotive Industries, Inc.Inventors: John W. Ryshavy, Shawn Christopher Miller, James R. Ryshavy
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Patent number: 8459676Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 11, 2010Date of Patent: June 11, 2013Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AGInventors: Jens Heimann, Andreas Vossel, David Vopel, Volker Wagner, Gabriele Fruhmann
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Publication number: 20130140786Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: August 26, 2011Publication date: June 6, 2013Applicants: HINO MOTORS, LTD., HORIKIRI, Inc., NHK SPRING CO., LTD.Inventors: Mitsuru Enomoto, Mamoru Akeda, Nobuhiro Shibuya
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Publication number: 20130127133Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: August 26, 2011Publication date: May 23, 2013Applicants: NHK SPRING CO., LTD., HINO MOTORS, LTD.Inventors: Mitsuru Enomoto, Naoshi Sato, Yoshiharu Sugawara, Nobuhiro Shibuya
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Patent number: 8444163Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 11, 2010Date of Patent: May 21, 2013Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AGInventors: Gabriele Fruhmann, Volker Wagner, Peter Hofmann, Jens Heimann
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Patent number: 8444162Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 11, 2010Date of Patent: May 21, 2013Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AGInventors: Gabriele Fruhmann, Volker Wagner, Jens Heimann
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Patent number: 8434747Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 14, 2006Date of Patent: May 7, 2013Assignee: Hendrickson USA, L.L.C.Inventors: Ashley T. Dudding, Lawrence E Miller, William Wilson
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Publication number: 20130049319Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: July 19, 2012Publication date: February 28, 2013Inventors: John W. Ryshavy, Shawn Christopher Miller, James R. Ryshavy
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Patent number: 8360453Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 11, 2010Date of Patent: January 29, 2013Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AGInventors: Gabriele Fruhmann, Hartmut Werries, Peter Hofmann, Christoph Elbers
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Patent number: 8360452Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 17, 2009Date of Patent: January 29, 2013Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke AktiengesellschaftInventors: Johann Kettenberger, Norbert Seyr, Andreas Obieglo, John Ziegert, Beshah Ayalew, Vincent Lee, Souharda Raghavendra
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Patent number: 8360454Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 11, 2010Date of Patent: January 29, 2013Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AGInventors: Gabriele Fruhmann, Volker Wagner, Jens Heimann, Peter Hofmann
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Patent number: 8356827Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 3, 2010Date of Patent: January 22, 2013Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toyota JidoshokkiInventor: Mitsumasa Takeda
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Patent number: 8317211Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 31, 2011Date of Patent: November 27, 2012Assignee: Stempf Automotive Industries, Inc.Inventors: John W. Ryshavy, Shawn Christopher Miller, James R. Ryshavy
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Patent number: 8276928Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 18, 2009Date of Patent: October 2, 2012Assignee: Volvo Lastvagnar ABInventors: Jan Hendriks, Roland Svensson
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Patent number: 8256782Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 27, 2010Date of Patent: September 4, 2012Assignee: Air Suspensions, Inc.Inventors: Ervin K. VanDenberg, David H. Croston
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Patent number: 8251401Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 7, 2009Date of Patent: August 28, 2012Inventor: James J. Miller
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Patent number: 8226099Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 20, 2007Date of Patent: July 24, 2012Assignee: SAF-Holland GmbHInventor: Hubert B. Koschinat
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Publication number: 20120153593Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: August 11, 2010Publication date: June 21, 2012Applicant: ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AGInventors: Gabriele Fruhmann, Volker Wagner, Peter Hofmann, Jens Heimann
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Publication number: 20120153594Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: August 11, 2010Publication date: June 21, 2012Applicant: ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AGInventors: Jens Heimann, Andreas Vossel, David Vopel, Volker Wagner, Gabriele Fruhmann
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Publication number: 20120146310Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: August 11, 2010Publication date: June 14, 2012Applicant: ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AGInventors: Gabriele Fruhmann, Volker Wagner, Jens Heimann, Peter Hofmann
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Publication number: 20120146309Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: August 11, 2010Publication date: June 14, 2012Applicant: ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AGInventors: Gabriele Fruhmann, Hartmut Werries, Peter Hofmann, Christoph Elbers