Individual Ground Engaging Means Vertically Movable Patents (Class 280/6.155)
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Patent number: 11679640Abstract: An active control system for a mass traveling along a guideway and method for active control of a mass traveling along a guideway. The active control system includes at least one displacement sensor and at least one motion sensor. Signals from the at least one displacement sensor and the least one motion sensor are processed to adjust a displacement of a reference location on the mass from a fixed reference.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2022Date of Patent: June 20, 2023Assignee: Hyperloop Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Irfan-ur-rab Usman
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Patent number: 10875372Abstract: The invention relates to suspension design. The present vehicle suspension comprises a quadrangular frame. Each corner portion of the frame has a wheel block kinematically attached thereto so as to form two pairs of wheels—a front pair and a rear pair. On each side of the frame, longitudinal and transverse coupling cables are fastened for movement therealong inside housings. Each wheel block consists of a body that is simultaneously connected to two coupling cables. Movably mounted on the body are parallel horizontal arms, the first of which is fastened to the body by its middle portion. A knuckle with the hub of a wheel is attached to an end of the first arm and to another end of the second arm, and two coupling cable dampers are attached to the other end of the first arm. The housings of the cables are attached to the body of the corresponding wheel block. The free end of each cable is enclosed in a damper.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2016Date of Patent: December 29, 2020Inventors: Georgiy Volodymyrovych Beylin, Sergiy Yuriiovich Petrenko
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Patent number: 8991832Abstract: The present disclosure relates to double acting suspension axle assemblies that can be used to facilitate mobility of a heavy load transporter and/or to adjust a deck height of the heavy load transporter. Each axle assembly includes a wheel assembly and a double-acting hydraulic cylinder. The double acting suspension axle provides the ability to force the hydraulic cylinder of each axle assembly to fully retract without relying solely on gravity. The double acting suspension axle assembly may be incorporated directly into or permanently affixed to other large structures, such as mobile robots, large tooling structures, gantry cranes, or other large machinery to provide the precise control of mobility and forced lowering capabilities.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 2012Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignees: Doefer Companies, Clover Industries Inc.Inventors: David M. Tetzlaff, John R. Burnett, Jason Van Clark, Melvin D. Terry
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Patent number: 8950762Abstract: A vehicle and a suspension system, for stabilizing vehicle disposition by lowering the center of gravity, and improving stability control performance are provided. The vehicle includes a body, at least one arm, a bottom unit, which may be a wheel, coupled to one end of an arm of the at least one arm, and a suspension system having a spring disposed to generate a counter moment in a direction that offsets an impact moment applied to the arm that is subjected to an impact.Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 2010Date of Patent: February 10, 2015Assignee: Samsung Techwin Co., Ltd.Inventors: Ji-hyuk Song, Rickey Newmayer, Jong-yoon Peck
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Publication number: 20150021866Abstract: Representative implementations of devices and techniques provide leveling for a vehicle, such as an overland vehicle. A leveling signal is received by a leveling arrangement coupled to the vehicle at a wheel position. The leveling arrangement rotates a rocker plate with respect to the body of the vehicle, changing a location of a wheel coupled to the rocker plate with respect to the body of the vehicle. In an aspect, the leveling signal is based on a first vehicle sensor signal representing a lateral tilt of the vehicle and/or a second vehicle sensor signal representing a pitch angle of the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 16, 2014Publication date: January 22, 2015Inventors: Dennis R. Solbrack, Christopher E. Wood, Cody Murdock, Jeffrey Solbrack
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Patent number: 8851484Abstract: A steerable wheel assembly comprising a mounting bracket (1) incorporating a vertical pivot mounting (2) for attachment to the vehicle. A second bracket (6) has a first arm (7) carrying a road wheel and a second arm (8) generally upstanding from the first and linked at the upper end thereof to the mounting bracket by a parallelogram linkage (4,5). A spring and shock-absorber unit (9) is pivotally connected between the second bracket and the parallelogram linkage. Another aspect of the invention provides a vehicle suspension system comprising a mounting bracket (20) for attachment to a vehicle body or chassis, and a wheel-mounting arm (21) pivotally attached to the mounting bracket and having a wheel mounted thereon. A spring and shock-absorber unit (22) extends between the mounting bracket and the wheel-mounting arm, at least one end of the spring and shock-absorber unit being connected through a member (23) whose position is adjustable along the axis of the respective bracket or arm.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2012Date of Patent: October 7, 2014Inventor: Samuel Dantzie
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Patent number: 8678408Abstract: Travel devices for a transport vehicle are arranged in a longitudinal direction and a width direction of a loading platform to allow traveling of the loading platform. In this travel device, an arm includes an upper end turnably supported at a lower portion of the loading platform. The arm includes a lower end where an axle box is supported swingably in up and down directions. A wheel has a mid-plane that intersects with a swing plane of an axle shaft disposed at the axle box, and is supported at the axle shaft. Accordingly, this ensures a small vehicle width L2 of the transport vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2013Date of Patent: March 25, 2014Assignees: Nippon Sharyo, Ltd., Central Japan Railway CompanyInventors: Hiroki Kobayashi, Kazunari Sakurai
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Patent number: 8602137Abstract: A self-propelled implement may include a suspension arrangement with a suspension spring, an elevation toggling linkage, and a wheel. The suspension spring may support a main frame of the self-propelled implement at a sprung end. The elevation toggling linkage may be mounted at an unsprung end of the suspension spring. The elevation toggling linkage may be used to configure the self-propelled implement at a raised elevation or a lowered elevation.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2011Date of Patent: December 10, 2013Assignee: AGCO CorporationInventors: Glen D. Kroese, Brian T. Coulter, Adam Thurmer
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Patent number: 8585064Abstract: A crop sprayer includes a pivoting axle suspension assembly that includes a bolster assembly secured between the frame rails of the main frame of the crop sprayer. The bolster assembly includes formed tube members that support a bearing structure for pivotably coupling a pivot pin of a pivot axle to the main frame. The tube members are curved downwardly from the main frame.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2011Date of Patent: November 19, 2013Assignee: ET Works, LLCInventors: Chad A Ringer, Justin Honegger, Ryan Larsh, Jarrett Waters
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Patent number: 8439373Abstract: Described herein is a hydraulic suspension system mounted on a vehicle, including a plurality of hydraulic suspension units having a section of the vehicle corresponding thereto, and a hydraulic power device in communication with the plurality of hydraulic suspension units for providing a hydraulic fluid under pressure to actuate the plurality of hydraulic suspension units. The hydraulic suspension system mounted on a vehicle further includes a plurality of hydraulic valve assemblies associated with each of the plurality of hydraulic suspension units, wherein the plurality of hydraulic valve assemblies are in fluid communication between the plurality of hydraulic suspension units and the hydraulic power device, and a control device for controlling each of the hydraulic valve assemblies associated with each of the plurality of hydraulic suspension units.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2008Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Michael Deegan, Paul Nephi Lowe
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Patent number: 8366123Abstract: The Buggy Jack is used to transport a conventional automobile floor-type hydraulic jack across rough, sandy or otherwise unstable, loose terrain, and rolls it into position below a vehicle that requires inspection, maintenance or repairs even on rough or sandy terrain.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2011Date of Patent: February 5, 2013Inventor: Ronald Lee Horstman
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Patent number: 8317225Abstract: A semi-trailer landing gear, in particular to support trailers, with a support element which includes an outer sleeve and an inner sleeve and which can be displaced in a telescopic manner in relation to the height. The outer sleeve includes a securing flange which can be applied to a vehicle. The aim of the invention is to develop a semi-trailer landing gear which is economical to produce and can also withstand high loads. The aim is achieved by virtue of the fact that the outer sleeve and the securing flange are made of a single piece of flat steel by edge rolling.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2006Date of Patent: November 27, 2012Assignee: Jost-Werke GmbHInventors: Gerald Müller, Günter Seidel, José Algüera
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Patent number: 8313309Abstract: A wheeled, manually movable, internal combustion engine powered pressure washer is mounted in a rigid frame formed of tubular steel elements. A pair of aligned wheels is pivotally mounted independently to each opposite side of the frame. Each pair of aligned wheels is provided with a pivot pin mechanism that enables the rear wheels to be lifted of the ground to facilitate pivoting the unit on the front wheels. The internal combustion engine is mounted toward the front end of the frame, and the pump toward the rear end of the frame. The upper front portion of the frame houses a fuel tank completely within the outline of the frame, and the tank holds more than two gallons of fuel.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2010Date of Patent: November 20, 2012Inventor: Bobby L. Hawkins
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Patent number: 8303262Abstract: A wheeled, manually movable, internal combustion engine powered trash pump is mounted in a rigid frame formed of tubular steel elements. A pair of aligned wheels is pivotally mounted independently to each opposite side of the frame. Each pair of aligned wheels is provided with a pivot pin mechanism that enables the rear wheels to be lifted off the ground to facilitate pivoting the unit on the front wheels. Each pair of aligned wheels is selectively detachable from the frame to facilitate shipping. The internal combustion engine is mounted toward the front end of the frame. The upper front portion of the frame houses a fuel tank completely within the outline of the frame, and the tank holds more than two gallons of fuel.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2010Date of Patent: November 6, 2012Inventor: Bobby L. Hawkins
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Patent number: 8303261Abstract: A wheeled, manually movable, internal combustion engine powered air compressor is mounted in a rigid frame formed of tubular steel elements. A pair of aligned wheels is pivotally mounted independently to each opposite side of the frame. Each pair of aligned wheels is provided with a pivot pin mechanism that enables the rear wheels to be lifted off the ground to facilitate pivoting the unit on the front wheels. Each pair of aligned wheels is selectively detachable from the frame to facilitate shipping. Two gas storage tanks are mounted to the bottom of the frame and disposed side-by-side. The internal combustion engine is mounted toward the front end of the frame. The upper front portion of the frame houses a fuel tank completely within the outline of the frame, and the tank holds more than two gallons of fuel.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2010Date of Patent: November 6, 2012Inventor: Bobby L. Hawkins
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Patent number: 8196936Abstract: A suspension apparatus for off-road vehicle includes a plurality of linear actuators, each coupled to a power source and attached to a respective one of the plurality of wheels and frame or body of the vehicle for moving the respective one of the plurality of wheels away from the frame or the body upon receiving a first command signal or moving the respective one of the plurality of wheels toward the frame or the body upon receiving a second command signal. Tilt sensors are provided with each tilt sensor mounted directly on or in close proximity to the respective one of the plurality of wheels for sensing its vertical attitude relative to a predetermined level condition and selectively generating each of a first and second position signals. A control device receives first and second position signals and outputs respective first and second command signals.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 2009Date of Patent: June 12, 2012Inventors: Elworth Cheek, Tony D. Daye
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Patent number: 8118316Abstract: A method of operating a road-building machine involves a machine having a chassis with four ground engaging supports and four working cylinders connecting the ground engaging supports to the chassis. A height of the left front and right rear ground engaging supports is adjusted in a first direction. The height of the right front and left rear ground engaging supports is adjusted in a second direction opposite the first direction.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 2010Date of Patent: February 21, 2012Assignee: Wirtgen GmbHInventors: Christian Berning, Dieter Simons, Markus Schafer
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Publication number: 20110298188Abstract: The invention relates to a construction machine, especially a road construction machine, comprising a machine frame and a chassis carrying the machine frame with several wheels, with at least one of the wheels being connected with the machine frame via a height-adjustable lifting column and the lifting column comprises a distance measuring device for measuring the adjustment of the lifting columns with a sensor. The invention further relates to a method for controlling and/or monitoring the working depth of a working device for processing the ground arranged on a height-adjustable construction machine, especially a road construction machine.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 11, 2011Publication date: December 8, 2011Applicant: BOMAG GMBHInventors: Thomas Haubrich, Marcus Schmitz, Robert Laux, Markus Lang, Martin Werner
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Patent number: 8033527Abstract: A lifting strut and stabilization system includes a lower outer tubular member in slidable engagement with an upper extendable inner tubular member, a mechanism for receiving and supporting a jack on the outer tubular member, a pin for optionally restraining the upper tubular member from further engagement into the lower tubular member, while allowing unrestrained extension of the upper tubular member from within the lower tubular member, and a removably attached jack having a bracket at its upper end incorporating a saddle or half-hole for engaging a strut lift pin located in a corresponding saddle, half-hole or flat bearing surface located on the upper end of the lower tubular member, the lift pin extending through the saddle holes in the upper tubular member, such that upon actuation of the jack, the upper jack bracket engages the lift pin and extends the upper tubular member from within the lower tubular member.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2008Date of Patent: October 11, 2011Assignee: Res-Q-Jack, Inc.Inventor: Cris E. Pasto
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Patent number: 7946596Abstract: A motor vehicle is provided. The motor vehicle comprises a vehicle body, a front wheel, a rear wheel and a tilting mechanism. The front wheel, the rear wheel and the tilting mechanism are disposed on the vehicle body. The tilting mechanism comprises a first compensation unit, a first arm, a first wheel, a second compensation unit, a second arm, a second wheel, at least one pipe and a fluid. The first arm is connected to the first compensation unit, and the first wheel. The second arm is connected to the second compensation unit, and the second wheel. The pipe connects the first compensation unit to the second compensation unit. The fluid flows in the first compensation unit, the second compensation unit and the pipe, wherein when the motor vehicle tilts, an extension length of the first compensation unit equals to a compression length of the second compensation unit.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2009Date of Patent: May 24, 2011Assignee: National Taiwan University of Science and TechnologyInventors: Mau-Pin Hsu, Chia-Ming Wu, Chia-En Lee, Ta-Chan Peng
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Publication number: 20110079968Abstract: A turf groomer for grooming and maintaining synthetic turf including a base structure, and at least one brush arm, at least one rotating member, and a plurality of rake tines connected to the base structure. The at least one brush arm has a plurality of arm segments and is positioned at a front region of the base structure. The at least one rotating member has one or more prongs extending radially from its center, is positioned along an axis of rotation, and is distally spaced from the at least one brush arm. The plurality of rake tines is distally spaced from the at least one rotating member. The turf groomer may include a second brush arm positioned at a rear region of the base structure, and a static reducing device to inhibit the buildup of static electricity as the turf groomer passes over the turf, and/or an extension brush arm.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 5, 2009Publication date: April 7, 2011Inventors: Stephen Murphy, John Huard, JR., Perry DiPiazza, Daniel J. Sovocool, Eric W. Hulbert
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Patent number: 7918465Abstract: The adjustable height trailer is a fifth wheel-type trailer with a single rear axle supporting the rear of the trailer and a fifth wheel hitch supporting the front. The rear axle and hitch have adjustable height suspensions, allowing the trailer to be lowered or raised uniformly while remaining hitched to the towing vehicle. One embodiment is configured as a livestock trailer with a series of stall positions therein. The loading and exit doors are generally diagonally opposite one another. A series of adjustably positionable partitions is installed on overhead tracks, with a partition placed between each animal as they are boarded and positioned in the trailer. Animals depart the trailer through the opposite door, with the partitions being repositioned correspondingly. The trailer suspension allows the trailer to be lowered to the underlying surface to facilitate loading and unloading animals therefrom, or other commodities, depending upon the trailer configuration.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2008Date of Patent: April 5, 2011Inventor: Donald C. Metzger
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Patent number: 7891675Abstract: Apparatus for transporting products including a body having ground wheels (22, 122) and support structure (30, 130) for one or more crates or other containers holding products to be carried by the apparatus. At least one ground engageable member (40, 140) fixed to said support structure forms an assembly with the support structure that is mounted to the body for relative movement between a retracted position in which the apparatus is freely moveable on a ground surface by means of the ground wheels and a relatively downwardly extended position in which the ground engageable member engages an underlying ground surface at a predetermined location to stabilize the apparatus against movement from that location on the ground wheels.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2006Date of Patent: February 22, 2011Assignee: Checkmate International Pty Ltd.Inventors: Boris Dobra, John Clifton Leahy
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Patent number: 7744099Abstract: A method of adjusting a leveled height of the sprung mass of a vehicle that is in approximate alignment with a predetermined datum is disclosed. The method includes approximately aligning the sprung mass with the predetermined datum, receiving an input from an operator for changing the height of the sprung mass and adjusting the height of the sprung mass while maintaining approximate alignment with the predetermined datum. A system for performing the method is also discussed.Type: GrantFiled: November 27, 2006Date of Patent: June 29, 2010Assignee: Driveright Holdings, Ltd.Inventor: Gregory A. Holbrook
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Patent number: 7735839Abstract: A motor vehicle has a frame assembly with a generally flat platform for supporting a wheelchair within the interior compartment of the vehicle. Air cylinders couple the frame assembly to wheel assemblies operate to move the frame assembly to an up vehicle driving position and to a down position wherein the platform engages the vehicle support surface or ground whereby the wheelchair can be moved directly onto the platform.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 2006Date of Patent: June 15, 2010Inventor: Phillip E. Schlangen
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Publication number: 20100004820Abstract: Embodiments of a suspension for a vehicle is provided. The suspension includes, for example, a frame and a locking assembly. The locking assembly inhibits tipping of a frame of the vehicle when tipping of the frame is detected.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 7, 2008Publication date: January 7, 2010Applicant: INVACARE CORPORATIONInventors: Robert Bekoscke, Damon Jurkiewicz, Gerald Fought
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Patent number: 7624995Abstract: A stabilization system for a motor vehicle includes an independently actuatable airbag assembly disposed at each wheel. A damper assembly disposed at each wheel is lockable to maintain the motor vehicle in the desired level position. The system includes a controller in communication with the airbag and damper assembly and a sensor assembly that senses a relative position of the body of the motor vehicle relative to a level plane and adjusts the airbag assembly in order to attain a level position of the motor vehicle and once that level position is attained, lock the damper assembly in order to provide a foundation-like feel to the motor home in a parked position.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2002Date of Patent: December 1, 2009Assignee: Ride Control, LLCInventor: James M. Barbison
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Patent number: 7617018Abstract: A method and apparatus for increasing platform attitude adjustment range for platforms supported by jacks in which the apparatus includes jacks for supporting a platform at spaced-apart locations, jack drive mechanisms, and a controller connected to each of the jacks through their respective jack drive mechanisms and programmed to adjust platform attitude by coordinating jack movement. The controller coordinates jack movement by selecting and commanding at least one of the jacks to retract and selecting and commanding at least one other of the jacks to extend.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 2005Date of Patent: November 10, 2009Assignee: Innovative Design SolutionsInventors: Robert M. Ford, John P. Manfreda, Mark J. Woloszyk, Shawn P. Haley
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Patent number: 7591337Abstract: A vehicle including a frame, left and right wheels, and a leaning suspension system. The frame defines a longitudinal vehicle axis. The leaning suspension system includes a transverse beam, left and right damping members, left and right control arms, and at least one lean actuator. The transverse beam is coupled to the frame and pivotable about the vehicle axis. The left and right damping members are pivotally coupled to the left and right sides of the transverse beam. The left control arm is pivotally coupled to the left wheel and to the frame, and the right control arm is pivotally coupled to the right wheel and to the frame. The lean actuator is pivotally connected between the frame and the transverse beam. The lean actuator is configured to extend and retract to tilt the left and right wheels and to lean the vehicle while cornering.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2006Date of Patent: September 22, 2009Assignees: Harley-Davidson Motor Company Group, LLC, Delphi Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Ryan J. Suhre, Andrew D. Massignan, Andrew H. Roth, Mark Hutchison, Scott J. Saiki
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Patent number: 7568541Abstract: An auxiliary lean control system is provided for controlling a lean angle of at least a portion of a vehicle. The auxiliary lean control system includes an energy storage device for storing energy to actuate the lean control system, a stabilizing mechanism coupled to the energy storage device and to the at least a portion of the vehicle for applying energy received from the energy storage device to the at least a portion of the vehicle to adjust the lean angle of the at least a portion of a vehicle, and a linkage coupled to the energy storage device and to the stabilizing mechanism for transferring energy from the energy storage device to the stabilizing mechanism. The auxiliary lean control system controls the lean angle of the portion of the vehicle in an absence of control of the lean angle by a primary lean control system.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2006Date of Patent: August 4, 2009Assignees: Delphi Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Michael C. Pfeil, Gary C. Fulks, Timothy A. Haerr, Scott J. Saiki, Andrew H. Roth
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Publication number: 20090112409Abstract: A stabilizer system for an industrial vehicle includes one or more stabilizer cylinders mounted to the industrial vehicle, wherein the stabilizer cylinders are configured to contact the ground when deployed. The stabilizer system further includes a pressure sensor configured to determine a hydraulic system pressure, and a processor configured to calculate a stabilizing pressure to be applied to the one or more stabilizer cylinders. The stabilizing pressure is based on the hydraulic system pressure in order to improve a forward stability of the industrial vehicle when the one or more stabilizer cylinders are deployed.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 5, 2007Publication date: April 30, 2009Applicant: NMHG OREGON, LLCInventor: Eduard Tollenaar
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Publication number: 20080203684Abstract: The invention relates to a road-building machine whose left front wheel (4) or caterpillar, right front wheel (6) or caterpillar, left rear wheel (8) or caterpillar and right rear wheel (10) or caterpillar are connected to the road-building machine chassis by means of an actuating element and are height-adjustable with respect to the road-building machine frame. According to said invention, different actuating elements are rigidly connected to the road-building machine chassis and forcedly coupled to each other in such a way that the left front wheel (4) or caterpillar and the right rear wheel (10) or caterpillar are height-adjustable in the same direction and with respect to the right front wheel (6) or caterpillar and the left rear wheel (8) or caterpillar are adjustable in the opposite directions. The all wheels (4, 6, 8, 10) or caterpillars are equally height-adjustable.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 9, 2006Publication date: August 28, 2008Applicant: WIRTGEN GMBHInventors: Christian Berning, Dieter Simons, Markus Schafer
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Patent number: 7354051Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2004Date of Patent: April 8, 2008Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Toshiyuki Ohki, Michihito Hirahara
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Patent number: 7354067Abstract: A compact caster wheel system for use with a skid steer vehicle, includes first and second auxiliary lift unit assemblies being spaced apart and disposable on respective left and right side margins of the skid steer vehicle and disposable rearward of the rearmost driving element and forward of the rear margin of the skid steer vehicle and projecting laterally from the respective left and right side margins less than the rearmost driving element, each of the first and second auxiliary lift unit assemblies having a respective housing assembly being couplable to the respective left and right side margins of the skid steer vehicle, first and second ram assemblies, a respective ram assembly being operably coupled to a respective one of the first and second auxiliary lift unit assemblies, and first and second ground engaging assemblies, a ground engaging assembly being operably coupled to a respective ram assembly such that actuation of the respective ram assembly effects shifting of the ground engaging assembly beType: GrantFiled: September 19, 2005Date of Patent: April 8, 2008Inventor: David S. Majkrzak
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Patent number: 7195258Abstract: A mobile viscous matter pump comprising a hydraulically operated support construction, a distribution boom (16) and a pneumatic cushioned trailing axle (42). To ensure stability during the pump operation, the trailing axle (42) can be lifted by means of a lifting element (58) by bleeding the pneumatic suspension, whereby the bleeding of the pneumatic suspension (44) and the operation of the lifting element (58) and a locking element (64) can be controlled according to the on-condition of the auxiliary drive (NA) of the vehicle motor, used to supply the hydraulic fluid of the drive hydraulics.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2002Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Putzmeister AktiengesellschaftInventors: Wolf-Michael Petzold, Gernot Göggelmann
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Patent number: 7131651Abstract: A chassis is described which is constructed of two lower side frames which at each end are provided with a wheel or caterpillar track. On each of the two lower side members, there is a horizontal bearing. Each of these bearings are connected to an upper vertical side member which at their upper end is connected to two parallel cross members through horizontal bearings for the development of a parallelogram connection. Between the lower and upper side members, there are two double-acting hydraulic cylinders. These can be connected in parallel in order to make a weight distribution possible. By means of a regulation valve between pressure side and suction side, respectively, on the double-acting hydraulic cylinders the upper part of the chassis can swing back and forth in the longitudinal direction of the side members.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2002Date of Patent: November 7, 2006Inventor: Niels Kjaer Laursen
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Publication number: 20060082079Abstract: An apparatus for automatically leveling a vehicle is provided. Having a plurality of legs, a sensor and a controller. The sensor is mounted to the vehicle to sense pitch and roll of the vehicle relative to a reference level plane. The sensor produces an orientation signal representing the vehicle pitch and roll. The controller is coupled to each of the legs and to the sensor, and monitors the orientation signal received from the sensor and in response to that signal the controller causes at least one of the legs to retract to move the vehicle downwardly relative to the ground surface, for orienting the vehicle with the reference level plane within a tolerance.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 26, 2005Publication date: April 20, 2006Inventors: Mark Eichhorn, James Sproatt
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Patent number: 7025361Abstract: An electronic controller for a vehicle leveling system comprises an extend-enable switch, a retract-enable switch, an all-activate switch, and at least one group-activate switch. It is configured to generate an all-extend electronic signal upon coordinated actuation of the extend-enable switch and the all-activate switch, an all-retract electronic signal upon coordinated actuation of the retract-enable switch and the all-activate switch, a group-extend electronic signal upon coordinated actuation of the extend-enable switch and the group-activate switch, and a group-retract electronic signal upon coordinated actuation of the retract-enable switch and the group-activate switch. Vehicle leveling systems having the electronic controller further include a plurality of jacks operably controlled by the electronic controller and a power system.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2004Date of Patent: April 11, 2006Assignee: Atwood Mobile Products, Inc.Inventor: John Scott Erickson
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Publication number: 20050161891Abstract: A vehicle leveling system including at least one level sensor, a controller and an output. The sensor measures how level the vehicle is relative to horizontal. Optionally, it does so dynamically, as the vehicle moves across a potential parking area. The controller analyzes the sensor measurements, and informs the operator via the output whether the vehicle is level in a given direction, whether the vehicle is leveling, whether the vehicle can be leveled at a given location, and/or the “best” leveling that the system is capable of at a location. The system also may automatically level the vehicle relative to the ground for the operator. In one embodiment, the leveling system communicates with an existing vehicle electronic height control system. The leveling system overrides or controls the normal operation of this system, and uses it to level the vehicle, for example, by adjusting the vehicle suspension.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 27, 2004Publication date: July 28, 2005Inventors: Curtis Trudeau, Robert Sorum, Loralye Sorum
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Patent number: 6848693Abstract: A pseudo four-leg leveling system for a vehicle, such as a recreational vehicle or the like, includes four jacks in the form of hydraulic cylinders mounted in pairs at the front and rear of the vehicle. A power system supplies hydraulic fluid to extend and retract the jacks thereby adjusting the attitude of the vehicle relative to level. The front two jacks are driven in parallel and the rear jacks are driven separately and independent of the front jacks. When the power system is de-energized the front jacks are hydraulically isolated to improve the stability of the system when static. Pressure operated valves automatically control the isolation of the jacks driven in parallel, as well as return passage to the tank, without the need for additional electronically controlled valves.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2002Date of Patent: February 1, 2005Assignee: Actuant CorporationInventor: Robert H. Schneider
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Publication number: 20040256815Abstract: A method and apparatus for automatically leveling a vehicle is provided, employing air springs, a sensor and a controller. The air springs are each mounted to the vehicle, and each can be at least partially inflated to provide suspension for the vehicle. Each of the air springs can also level the vehicle when the vehicle is parked. The sensor is mounted to the vehicle to sense pitch and roll of the vehicle relative to a reference level plane. The sensor also produces an orientation signal representing the vehicle pitch and roll. In response to the signal, the controller may cause at least one of the air springs to either inflate to move the vehicle upwardly, or deflate to move the vehicle downwardly relative to a ground surface, until the orientation of the vehicle reaches the reference level plane within a tolerance.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 11, 2004Publication date: December 23, 2004Inventors: Mark M. Eichhorn, James E. Rouch, Alice E. Poseley, James N. Sproatt
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Patent number: 6598886Abstract: A demountable drive mechanism for the landing gear of a semi-trailer, the landing gear including legs that are extendable and retractable by rotation of a drive shaft through a gear mechanism, the drive shaft being axially displaceable to change the ratio of the gear mechanism, the drive mechanism comprising an electric motor having an output shaft adapted to be coupled to the drive shaft of the landing gear assembly, the electric motor being coupled to the landing gear through a torque arm so that the electric motor can impart torque to the drive shaft, means to axially displace the drive shaft to change the gear ratio, and means to control operation of the electric motor and axial displacement of the drive shaft.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2001Date of Patent: July 29, 2003Inventors: Darryl W. Baird, Geoffrey R. Watson
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Patent number: 6273435Abstract: A trailer for use in transporting a load from one area to another area has a frame and a bed operatively mounted to the frame which is capable of being moved from a first or lowered position to a second or elevated position in a substantially vertical manner or nontilting manner. At least one lifting mechanism is operatively connected to the bed, which applies the greatest force for lifting the bed from the lowered position to the elevated position at the beginning of the lift, rather than at an end or midpoint of the lift. At least one over-center latching mechanism secures the bed to the frame when the bed is in the elevated position.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 1999Date of Patent: August 14, 2001Assignee: bil-jax, inc.Inventor: Matthew D. Stringer
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Patent number: 6270098Abstract: A load distribution unit is utilized in a vehicle suspension system having at least one pair of laterally adjacent forward wheel assemblies, and at least one pair of laterally adjacent rear wheel assemblies. A wheel ram is associated with each of the wheel assemblies, each wheel ram including a major chamber therein. The load distribution unit includes a plurality of fluid chambers, each fluid chamber being divided into at least two control chambers by at least one piston supported therein. Two pairs of the control chambers which vary in volume proportionally and in opposite senses therein with piston motion are system chambers, and at least two of the remaining control chambers are bump chambers. The pistons are interconnected by at least one connection device. The major chamber of each wheel ram is in fluid communication with a respective system chamber. The vehicle suspension system provides a roll stiffness and a pitch stiffness while providing minimum cross-axial articulation stiffness.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 1999Date of Patent: August 7, 2001Assignee: Kinetic LimitedInventors: Christopher Brian Heyring, Richard Monk
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Patent number: 6250650Abstract: An automatic fifth wheel loading and unloading system which is designed to automatically unlock and disengage a trailer from the fifth wheel apparatus in a towing vehicle such as a pickup truck and level and then recouple the trailer to the vehicle. The automatic fifth wheel loading and unloading system initially raises the trailer coupler a predetermined distance, unlocks the trailer hitch mechanism in the fifth wheel and opens it on command. The truck or towing vehicle is then pulled forwardly from beneath the trailer coupling mechanism and the trailer is automatically lowered into a level position. When the trailer is to be recoupled to the towing vehicle, the trailer is automatically raised to an access position by operation of a memory circuit, the truck is positioned such that the fifth wheel mechanism is located beneath the trailer coupling mechanism and the trailer coupling mechanism is automatically lowered into engagement with the fifth wheel.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 1997Date of Patent: June 26, 2001Inventor: Leland H. Douglas
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Patent number: 6217044Abstract: Wheel assemblies for attachment to a carriage or a vehicle. The wheel assemblies can be configured for four wheel steering, locked in predetermined directions, or free pivoting. The wheel assemblies further include an apparatus for retracting and extending the wheels of the carriage to support the carriage on fixed length supports.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 1999Date of Patent: April 17, 2001Assignee: Beeche Systems, Corp.Inventors: Gregory L. Beeche, Roy Scrafford
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Patent number: 6199875Abstract: A tilting apparatus for tilting a body (4) of a vehicle, the apparatus being disposed in a bogie underframe, and secondary suspensions (3) being disposed under the body (4) of the vehicle, the tilting apparatus being characterized in that it includes first and second tilt-control actuators (1, 2) disposed rigidly and vertically in the bogie, the secondary suspensions (3) lying under the body (4) of the vehicle and on the tilt-control actuators (1, 2), a re-centering actuator (5) secured via one of its ends to the bogie underframe (6) and via its other end to the body (4) of the vehicle, and an anti-roll bar (7) disposed under the body (4), the tilting apparatus being provided neither with an inclination cross-member, nor with cross-member suspension connection rods.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 1998Date of Patent: March 13, 2001Assignee: GEC Alsthom Transport SAInventor: Jean Daniel Nast