Establishing Riding Or Trim Height Patents (Class 280/6.157)
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Patent number: 8523191Abstract: A height control valve assembly for an axle/suspension system of a vehicle includes a height control valve in fluid communication with a compressed air source, with at least one air spring of said vehicle, and with atmosphere. The height control valve is attached to the frame of the vehicle and includes a flow control means for regulating fluid flow through the valve. A control arm is operatively attached to the flow control means, whereby movement of the control arm regulates fluid flow through the height control valve. The height control valve assembly further includes a link having a first end and a second end. The first end of the link is operatively attached to the control arm. The second end of the link is attached to the beam of the axle/suspension system, such that the ends of the link are generally vertically aligned.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2012Date of Patent: September 3, 2013Assignee: Hendrickson USA, LLCInventor: Michael W. Yagiela
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Publication number: 20130221627Abstract: The present invention includes methods and apparatus for easily adjusting a shock and strut assembly to modify the ride height of a vehicle by providing one or more spacers to be placed between the lower spring seat mount and the spring seat plate that rests upon it in order to raise the ride height of a vehicle. Embodiments include a unique location for a lower spring seat mount. The position of the lower spring seat mount may be lowered to reduce the ride height of the vehicle, and one or more spacers may be inserted above the lower spring seat mount to raise the ride height of the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 14, 2013Publication date: August 29, 2013Inventor: Klaus Wohlfarth
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Patent number: 8516672Abstract: Methods for easily adjusting a shock and strut assembly to modify the ride height of a vehicle by providing one or more spacers to be placed between the lower spring seat mount and the spring seat plate that rests upon it in order to raise the ride height of a vehicle. Embodiments include a unique location for a lower spring seat mount. The position of the lower spring seat mount may be lowered to reduce the ride height of the vehicle, and one or more spacers may be inserted above the lower spring seat mount to raise the ride height of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2011Date of Patent: August 27, 2013Inventor: Klaus Wohlfarth
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Patent number: 8517396Abstract: A gas spring assembly includes a gas spring and a height control module. The gas spring includes a first end member, a second end member and a flexible wall secured therebetween. The height control module includes a height control system that is operatively associated with the gas spring. The height control system includes a sensor, a valve arrangement and a fixed-logic control circuit. A suspension system and a method are also included.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2010Date of Patent: August 27, 2013Assignee: Firestone Industrial Products Company, LLCInventors: Graham R. Brookes, Larry L. Lockridge, Anthony E. Gambrall
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Publication number: 20130200578Abstract: A spring shock absorber unit for adjusting the elevation of a vehicle, including an oscillation absorber, a support spring to absorb shocks impacting the vehicle, an upper spring seat at which the support spring is supported, an adjustment device for adjusting the height of the upper spring seat with an actuator and an adjustment mechanism configured to convert the rotary motion generated by the actuator into a translational motion of the upper spring seat, an axial bearing for supporting the spring shock absorber unit, particularly the upper spring seat and/or a piston rod at a body of a vehicle, optimal utilization of the space available shall be possible in spite of a plurality of functional elements. The adjustment mechanism can additionally serve the function of an axial bearing.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 10, 2011Publication date: August 8, 2013Applicant: MAGNA STEYR FAHRZEUGTECHNIK AG & CO. KGInventors: Matthias Kohlhauser, Hansjörg Pöhler
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Publication number: 20130181415Abstract: A telescoping cylinder device including double-walled cylinders is disclosed. By way of a pressure medium, the cylinders are displaceable relative to each other by moving inside the space formed between the two walls. A central through hole extends axially through the cylinders and provide a passage for transmission. A vehicle including a plurality of telescoping cylinder devices is also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 24, 2011Publication date: July 18, 2013Applicant: TAM CRAFT ABInventor: Arne Henriksson
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Publication number: 20130154210Abstract: The stabiliser comprises a telescopic assembly (1) with an outer member (10) and an inner member (20) axially movable with respect to the outer member, without the possibility of rotating. A threaded element (30) is coupled to the outer member (10) and to the inner member (20) such that when said threaded element (30) rotates an axial movement of said inner member (20) with respect to said outer member (10) occurs, varying the length between kinematic centres of the stabiliser.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 17, 2012Publication date: June 20, 2013Applicant: EDAI TECHNICAL UNIT, A.I.E.Inventor: EDAI TECHNICAL UNIT, A.I.E.
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Patent number: 8465025Abstract: A vehicle suspension system includes a pump, a gas spring, and an accumulator. The gas spring assembly includes a cylinder, a rod, and a chamber for supporting gas. The rod is coupled to the cylinder and moveable relative to the cylinder. The chamber is formed between the cylinder and the rod, where movement of the rod relative to the cylinder changes the volume of the chamber. The accumulator is configured for receiving, storing, and releasing potential energy from gas of the chamber. The accumulator is coupled to the chamber, and is in gaseous communication with the chamber such that a continuous body of gas extends between the chamber and the accumulator when the accumulator is receiving or releasing the potential energy.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2010Date of Patent: June 18, 2013Assignee: Oshkosh CorporationInventors: Roy Venton-Walters, Aaron Rositch, Jesse L. Knoble, Erik Ellifson, Mark L. Steckling
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Patent number: 8454029Abstract: The invention relates to a wheel suspension for motor vehicles with level adjustment of the body, having a vertical adjusting device (22; 80) which is disposed between a wheel guide element and the superstructure of the motor vehicle and which is particularly designed as a ball screw mechanism driven by an electric motor and acts on an adjusting plate spring (34) of at least one support spring (14), wherein the vertical adjusting device (22; 80) is outwardly sealed by at least one enclosing rubber-elastic bellows (50, 52; 100). In order to prevent deformation of the at least one bellows and ingress of dirt or moisture into the vertical adjusting device, the invention proposes that the interior space (54, 56; 102) enclosed by the bellows (50, 52; 100) is connected directly or indirectly to an auxiliary volume (66; 108) positioned outside of the bellows (50, 52; 100).Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2009Date of Patent: June 4, 2013Assignee: Audi AGInventor: Wilfried Michel
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Patent number: 8448951Abstract: A closed ride control system for vehicles by which a vehicle body is suspended with respect to at least one vehicle axle and which includes the following components: pressure medium chambers which are connected via branches to a pressure medium line, a compressor, an air dryer which is arranged in a pressure medium line, a pressure medium reservoir which is connected via the compressor to the pressure medium chambers, and a non-return valve arranged in the pressure medium line between an outlet of the air dryer and the directional valve in order to connect the outlet of the air dryer to the pressure medium reservoir.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2009Date of Patent: May 28, 2013Assignee: Continental Teves AG & Co. oHGInventor: Dierk Hein
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Publication number: 20130119621Abstract: A torsion key saddle enables a user to readily change the suspension performance characteristic and the suspension lift in a vehicle with independent torsion suspension without the need to replace the torsion keys. Use of torsion key saddles enables each wheel to be adjusted fully between the extremes available using the six possible positions for a torsion key with a hex torsion bar socket.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 8, 2012Publication date: May 16, 2013Applicant: TIME ZONE CONSULTING CORP.Inventor: Time Zone Consulting Corp.
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Patent number: 8424881Abstract: A height adjustable wheel support apparatus includes an upper portion connectable to a frame of a vehicle and a lower portion that is connectable to a wheel assembly. An actuator is configured to move the upper portion between first and second positions. A spacer is movable between a storage position and a use position. In the use position the spaced is disposed between the upper and lower portions. When the upper portion is in the first position a downward facing bottom surface of the upper portion bears against a support surface on the lower portion, and when upper portion is in the second position the spacer is in the use position, between the upper and lower portions, and carries at least a portion of a load exerted by the upper portion.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2010Date of Patent: April 23, 2013Assignee: HJV EquipmentInventors: David Vander Zaag, Daniel Mann
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Patent number: 8413997Abstract: A vehicle fluid suspension control system includes a fluid supply adapted to fluidly communicate with a lift mechanism in the vehicle. A circuit board is connected to the fluid supply and exhausts fluid from the lift mechanism when the kneel switch is activated. The circuit board may also open a flowpath from the fluid supply to the lift mechanism when a kneel switch is deactivated and the brake pedal is depressed. A manifold may be in fluid communication with the fluid supply and the lift mechanism and may include a supply flowpath and an exhaust flowpath. The control system may be programmed with a height averaging adjustment delay, which determines whether the average height of the vehicle during a period of time is outside of a predetermined range. The control system may make corresponding adjustments to bring the height of the vehicle within the predetermined range.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2011Date of Patent: April 9, 2013Assignee: Air Lift CompanyInventors: Joshua D. Coombs, Aaron Mulder
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Patent number: 8413683Abstract: A pneumatic control valve device for systems for arbitrarily lifting and lowering the vehicle body of air-suspended vehicles, with a control device having at least one mechanical control element for the positions lift, lower, drive and stop, and with a spring device for returning the control element after it has been released, in which the spring device returns the control element after it has been released into the drive position, a position securing device is provided, the position securing device mechanically locking the control element, the position securing device, in the locked state, preventing the control element from returning under the spring force of the spring device into the drive position, but permitting this in the unlocked state, however always permitting the control element to be manually adjusted, the position securing device can be changed from the locked state into the unlocked state by an electric signal.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2008Date of Patent: April 9, 2013Assignee: Knorr-Bremse Systeme Fuer Nutzfahrzeuge GmbHInventors: Michael Herges, Friedbert Roether, Martin Mederer, Janos Toth
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Patent number: 8408561Abstract: A displaceable spring seat (2) supporting one end of a vehicle suspension spring (S) is supported by a fluid pressure of an operation chamber (J). A screw pump (P) supplying a working fluid to the operation chamber (J) includes a pump chamber (L) defined within a cylinder (10) by a piston (11, a nut (13) formed integrally with the piston (11), and a screw shaft (14) screwed into the nut (13). A guide member (16) fixed to the cylinder (10) is fitted onto an outer circumference of the nut (13) or the piston (11) such that when the screw shaft (14) is driven to rotate, the piston (11) is fed via the nut (13). The guide member (16) formed from a non-metallic, low-friction material, reduces a driving resistance of the piston (11) and improves a durability of a screw portion between the nut (13) and the screw shaft (14).Type: GrantFiled: December 24, 2009Date of Patent: April 2, 2013Assignee: Kayaba Industry Co., Ltd.Inventor: Takahisa Mochizuki
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Patent number: 8403346Abstract: An adjustable run height lift axle suspension system includes an axle assembly, an air spring and a lift actuator. A device may be releasably attached to the axle assembly and connected to each of the air spring and the lift actuator, the device spacing the air spring away from the axle assembly. A selected one of multiple devices may be used, the suspension system having one run height when one device is releasably attached to the axle assembly and connected to each of the air spring and the lift actuator, and a different run height when another device is used. The air spring may have approximately the same operational height when the suspension system is at the different run heights.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 2005Date of Patent: March 26, 2013Assignee: Watson & Chalin Manufacturring, Inc.Inventors: Thomas N. Chalin, Cully B. Dodd, Herbert D. Hudson
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Patent number: 8376077Abstract: A vehicle (10) comprising a vehicle body, a suspension system coupled to the vehicle body, and a plurality of wheels (16) coupled to the suspension system comprising at least one pair of wheels, each wheel of the at least one pair of wheels being located on opposite sides of the vehicle. The suspension system comprises a changeable wheel track width for the at least one pair of wheels and the wheel track width is changeable between a narrow wheel track width setting (12) and a wide wheel track width setting (14) by pivoting a suspension link (18) about a vertical axis.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2006Date of Patent: February 19, 2013Assignee: Oshkosh CorporationInventor: Roy Venton-Walters
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Patent number: 8370022Abstract: A suspension system is provided to execute a control for avoiding a state in which an operation of an electric motor which is a power source of an electromagnetic actuator is kept halted at a certain operational position while the motor is generating a motor force. Where a target rotational position of the motor becomes equal to a specific operational position (e.g., a rotational position at which an electrifying current amount of one phase reaches a peak value), a control for shifting the target rotational position by ?? is executed. Where the rotational position of the motor is kept located at the certain position for a time period longer than a prescribed time, a control for changing the rotational position of the motor is executed.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 2012Date of Patent: February 5, 2013Assignees: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha, Kayaba Industry Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hirofumi Inoue, Hideshi Watanabe, Takuhiro Kondo
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Patent number: 8365847Abstract: A surface vehicle capable of overcoming obstacles is disclosed in which the vehicle accelerates vertically while having a horizontal velocity. The vehicle has a frame and at least three wheels attached to the frame to which a horizontal propulsion system is coupled. Further, a vertical propulsion system is coupled to the frame and the wheels. The vertical propulsion system is capable of providing a force to such wheels normal to the surface so that the vehicle separates from the surface. The vehicle has an electronic control unit coupled to the vertical propulsion system to automatically control its operation. Further, sensors are used to evaluate the characteristics of the surface that pertain to supporting a vertical acceleration/deceleration.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 2011Date of Patent: February 5, 2013Assignee: Mobile Intelligence CorporationInventors: Wayne Miller Brehob, Douglas Christopher MacKenzie
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Patent number: 8360448Abstract: In a traditional hitched trailer there is no way to adjust the ride height of the trailer. Provided is an angular adjusting mechanism (13) for a suspension system (10) comprising a shaft (12) and a crank arm (20), the shaft (12) having a connecting end (14) connected to the crank arm (20), said angular adjusting mechanism (13) comprising a frusto-comcal shaped surface (16) provided on the connecting end (14) and pointing outwardly from said shaft (12), said surface (16) having an array of first cavities (18) arranged circumferentially, a frusto-comcal bore (22) proximate a first extremity of said crank arm (20), said bore (22) having an array of second cavities (24), said bore (22) being operative to mate with said surface (16) of said connecting end (14), and an interlocking element (30) partly positioned in one of said second cavities (24) and partly positioned in one of said first cavities (18) so as to lock said crank arm (20) at a predetermined angular position with respect to said shaft (12).Type: GrantFiled: November 23, 2010Date of Patent: January 29, 2013Assignee: Système Nénuphar Inc.Inventor: Yves Lariviere
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Patent number: 8342556Abstract: A truck for towing a trailer includes a vehicle frame spine, a pair of suspension assemblies extending from either side of the vehicle frame spine and each supports a drive assembly at an end distal to the vehicle frame spine. Extensible struts are positioned between the vehicle frame spine and the drive assemblies allowing selection of vehicle drive height from a driving surface. A fifth wheel assembly is supported from the vehicle frame spine located above the drive assemblies. The fifth wheel assembly includes a fifth wheel and a fifth wheel lift which varies spacing of the fifth wheel from the vehicle frame spine. Control system selects strut extension based on a selected vehicle drive height and operates the lift assembly to counteract changes in vehicle drive height and maintain a constant fifth wheel drive height relative to the driving surface.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 2011Date of Patent: January 1, 2013Assignee: Navistar Canada, Inc.Inventor: Leo P. Oriet
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Publication number: 20120319366Abstract: A height control valve assembly for an axle/suspension system of a vehicle includes a height control valve in fluid communication with a compressed air source, with at least one air spring of said vehicle, and with atmosphere. The height control valve is attached to the frame of the vehicle and includes a flow control means for regulating fluid flow through the valve. A control arm is operatively attached to the flow control means, whereby movement of the control arm regulates fluid flow through the height control valve. The height control valve assembly further includes a link having a first end and a second end. The first end of the link is operatively attached to the control arm. The second end of the link is attached to the beam of the axle/suspension system, such that the ends of the link are generally vertically aligned.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 14, 2012Publication date: December 20, 2012Applicant: HENDRICKSON USA LLCInventor: Michael W. Yagiela
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Patent number: 8333390Abstract: In some embodiments, a land vehicle includes sensors that provide information relating to a ride height of the land vehicle. A processing circuit monitors data from the sensors and controls adjustment of one or more vehicle systems that affect the vehicle's ride height based on the data from the sensors. In some embodiments, the processing circuit controls a suspension system and can control the suspension system to have any of a multiplicity of height settings. In some embodiments, the processing circuit controls the ride height based on a user selection of a pre-configured ride height setting. In some embodiments, the processing circuit is configured to maintain a ride height of the vehicle at a consistent ride height when the suspension is unlocked after a load is removed where the suspension was locked after the load was added.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2008Date of Patent: December 18, 2012Assignee: Oshkosh CorporationInventors: Catherine R. Linsmeier, Erik S. Ellifson, Kevin W. Magners
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Patent number: 8317210Abstract: A suspension height adjustment apparatus includes first and second plates which may cooperatively engage to define a plurality of thickness dimensions, which correspond to suspension height adjustment dimensions. The first and second plates of the suspension height adjustment apparatus may be coupled between an upper strut assembly and a vehicle frame through a plurality of connection adapters which engage to the upper strut studs of the strut assembly.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2010Date of Patent: November 27, 2012Assignee: Stempf Automotive Industries, Inc.Inventors: John W. Ryshavy, James R. Ryshavy
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Patent number: 8292306Abstract: Improved mount and bearing height adjustable air suspension shock absorber devices, apparatus, systems and methods, for use with sport utility vehicles(SUVs) such as Range Rovers®, and the like. Air lines run through an upper mount into an upper opening of an inflatable and deflatable airbag. The airlines have not external lines such as the nylon type tubing used in the prior art, and are not prone to failure which occurs more frequently with the external tubing air lines. Inflating and deflating the air springs/airbags (bladders) allows for the shock absorbers in the devices to be adjusted to different riding conditions over different types of terrains giving the rider a customized ride over different types of on road and off-road terrains. An internal air line machined into the head of the air suspension device provides a direct passageway for compressed air to pass into and out of the airbag without using external tubes.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2010Date of Patent: October 23, 2012Assignee: Arnott, Inc.Inventor: Adam Arnott
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Patent number: 8285448Abstract: It is an object of the invention to provide a suspension system configured to execute a control for avoiding a state in which an operation of an electric motor which is a power source of an electromagnetic actuator is kept halted at a certain operational position while the motor is generating a motor force. Where a target rotational position of the motor becomes equal to a specific operational position (e.g., a rotational position at which an electrifying current amount of one phase reaches a peak value), a control for shifting the target rotational position by ?? is executed. Where the rotational position of the motor is kept located at the certain position for a time period longer than a prescribed time, a control for changing the rotational position of the motor is executed. According to the present suspension system, it is possible to suppress imbalance in heat generation in the motor and to thereby reduce a load to be applied to the motor. Accordingly, a suspension system with high utility is realized.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2007Date of Patent: October 9, 2012Assignees: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha, Kayaba Industry Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hirofumi Inoue, Hideshi Watanabe, Takuhiro Kondo
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Patent number: 8262100Abstract: A vehicle height adjustment suspension device provides for both automatic and selective raising and lowering of a supported portion of a vehicle frame relative a ground surface, while also providing shock absorption. The device includes a suspension assembly for absorbing shocks mounted on a rotatable threaded screw connected to a motor and extending into the suspension assembly. The assembly may be extended and retracted on the screw by rotating the screw in first and second directions to raise and lower the supported portion while the shock absorber assembly simultaneously provides shock absorption capability.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2010Date of Patent: September 11, 2012Inventor: Georges Thomas
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Patent number: 8205893Abstract: In an example embodiment, an adjustment apparatus for varying the ground clearance of a vehicle includes an adjustable leg configured to couple to a chassis and wheel of a vehicle, and a removable stop to releasably fix the adjustable leg in a desired condition. The adjustable leg may include a main leg and a drop leg that is movable within the leg, the main leg configured to couple to a chassis of a vehicle and the drop leg configured to couple to a vehicle wheel.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2009Date of Patent: June 26, 2012Assignee: AGCO CorporationInventors: John Peterson, John Buschena, Casey Steffensen
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Publication number: 20120153581Abstract: An integrated pneumatic system including a motor, air compressor, air dryer, valves, air lines and electronic controller pneumatically controls both an air springs system and an inflatable air dam assembly, wherein the trim height adjustment of the air springs may be individual or collective, and wherein the trim height adjustment of the air springs and the inflation and deflation of the inflatable air dam assembly may be mutually coordinated with respect to vehicular speed and the duration of vehicular speed ranges.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 16, 2010Publication date: June 21, 2012Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLCInventor: Yunjun Li
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Patent number: 8196942Abstract: A corner assembly includes a suspension module and a wheel assembly. In order to compensate for tolerance stack up in relation to a specified height of the corner assembly, the attachment between a damper of the suspension module and a knuckle of the wheel assembly is adjusted. The amount of adjustment is determined by measuring the assembled length of the suspension module, comparing the measured length to a standard length and determining an amount of adjustment necessary.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 2011Date of Patent: June 12, 2012Assignee: Tenneco Automotive Operating Company Inc.Inventors: John Heeren, Herman Sanen, Maarten Maes
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Patent number: 8185269Abstract: An active suspension system and method for controlling the height of a vehicle. In an exemplary embodiment, the active suspension system receives information from one or more input sources, including both internal and external vehicle inputs, and uses that information to actively control the vehicle height. By doing so, the active suspension system can reduce aerodynamic drag on the vehicle and improve the vehicle's fuel economy, ride comfort, handling, and other aspects of operation. Some examples of external vehicle inputs that may be used include: short-range road and vehicle information, as well as long-range traffic, road and route information.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2008Date of Patent: May 22, 2012Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Yunjun Li, Timothy J. Herrick, Nancy McMahon, Steven A. Opiteck, John X. Cui, Loren J. Majersik, Nathan A. Wilmot
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Publication number: 20120104704Abstract: A solid state cup device that assists a coil over arrangement of an air suspension system for at least one motor vehicle wheel is disclosed. The device comprises at least one outer cup having a plurality of o-rings placed on the coil over arrangement. The system further includes at least one inner cup having a plurality of smaller o-rings placed on top of at least one spring. The at least one outer cup further includes at least one c-ring designed to prevent the at least one inner cup from sliding out of the at least one outer cup. With air injected into the at least one outer cup, the at least one inner cup may press down the at least one spring to provide tension on the at least one spring resulting in a smoother lift and lowering of the at least one motor vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 30, 2010Publication date: May 3, 2012Inventor: HOANG MINH NGUYEN
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Publication number: 20120098216Abstract: A hydraulic system for lowering the ride height of a vehicle includes at least one hydraulic shock mounted to the suspension of the vehicle. Each of the hydraulic shocks has a floating bearing in the hydraulic shock, and an inlet. The inlet is hydraulically connected to a central manifold that is adapted to move fluid into and out of the hydraulic shock for moving the floating bearing in each of the hydraulic shocks. When the floating bearing is moved in the hydraulic shock, the hydraulic shock shortens thereby lowering the ride height of the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 25, 2011Publication date: April 26, 2012Inventors: Jeffrey S. Ryan, David J. Holden, Jeff L. Peterson
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Publication number: 20120098215Abstract: A pump includes a housing defining an interior volume, and a diaphragm, where the diaphragm partitions the interior volume into a pumping chamber and an actuating chamber. The diaphragm is formed from a polymeric material, and the pump further includes a diaphragm support configured to limit a stroke of the diaphragm. The diaphragm support includes an array of apertures through which fluid passes to interface with the diaphragm during operation of the pump.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 22, 2010Publication date: April 26, 2012Inventors: Aaron J. Rositch, Erik Ellifson, Roy Venton-Walters, Jason J. Zuleger, Joseph Krebs
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Publication number: 20120086178Abstract: A gas spring assembly includes a gas spring and a height control module. The gas spring includes a first end member, a second end member and a flexible wall secured therebetween. The height control module includes a height control system that is operatively associated with the gas spring. The height control system includes a sensor, a valve arrangement and a fixed-logic control circuit. A suspension system and a method are also included.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 1, 2010Publication date: April 12, 2012Applicant: FIRESTONE INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS COMPANY, LLCInventors: Graham R. Brookes, Larry L. Lockridge, Anthony E. Gambrall
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Publication number: 20120074660Abstract: A vehicle height adjustment suspension device provides for both automatic and selective raising and lowering of a supported portion of a vehicle frame relative a ground surface, while also providing shock absorption. The device includes a suspension assembly for absorbing shocks mounted on a rotatable threaded screw connected to a motor and extending into the suspension assembly. The assembly may be extended and retracted on the screw by rotating the screw in first and second directions to raise and lower the supported portion while the shock absorber assembly simultaneously provides shock absorption capability.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 28, 2010Publication date: March 29, 2012Inventor: Georges Thomas
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Patent number: 8135514Abstract: Automotive systems and methods for operating vehicles are provided. In an embodiment, when a speed sensor senses that the vehicle speed is above a first speed threshold and an ambient light sensor senses that an ambient light intensity is below a first intensity threshold, a controller provides a first command to a suspension system to lower a first end of a vehicle body to a second front trim height position relative to a horizontal plane, where the second front trim height position is below a first front trim height position, and to lower the second end of the body to a second rear trim height position relative to the horizontal plane, where the second rear trim height position is below a first rear trim height position.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2009Date of Patent: March 13, 2012Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Leonard B. Kelly, Yunjun Li, Gregory G. Gordon, Nancy McMahon, Todd H. Barnes
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Publication number: 20120049470Abstract: A vehicle suspension system includes a pump, a gas spring, and an accumulator. The gas spring assembly includes a cylinder, a rod, and a chamber for supporting gas. The rod is coupled to the cylinder and moveable relative to the cylinder. The chamber is formed between the cylinder and the rod, where movement of the rod relative to the cylinder changes the volume of the chamber. The accumulator is configured for receiving, storing, and releasing potential energy from gas of the chamber. The accumulator is coupled to the chamber, and is in gaseous communication with the chamber such that a continuous body of gas extends between the chamber and the accumulator when the accumulator is receiving or releasing the potential energy.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 31, 2010Publication date: March 1, 2012Inventors: Aaron J. Rositch, Jesse L. Knoble, Erik Ellifson, Roy Venton-Walters, Mark L. Steckling
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Patent number: 8113521Abstract: An intelligent electronic air suspension system that automatically adjusts its air pressure includes a vehicle speed detector, a vehicle height detector, a level detector, a first pressure sensor, a control end, and four air struts on the vehicle suspension system. The data of the vehicle speed detector, the vehicle height detector, the level detector, and the first pressure sensor are integrated to obtain the dynamical condition of the moving vehicle and its position on the road. Such information is transmitted to the control end and displayed on the monitor end at the same time. According to needs, the user can set manual or automatic control to adjust the air struts so that passengers in the vehicle enjoy more comfort. The air struts can also be adjusted according to the driver's habits to have better controllability. Moreover, the vehicle height can be adjusted according to its load, ensuring the safety of both passengers and cargo.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 2009Date of Patent: February 14, 2012Assignee: Pin Hsiu Rubber Co., Ltd.Inventors: Masa Lin, San-Shan Hung, Mong-Chi Yang
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Patent number: 8113592Abstract: A road construction machine includes a machine frame, a working drum and a plurality of ground engaging supports. A plurality of lifting columns are connected between the machine frame and the ground engaging supports. Each of the lifting columns include two telescoping hollow cylinders. A plurality of lifting position measuring devices are provided, each measuring device being coupled with elements of one of the lifting columns, which elements are capable of being displaced relative to one another in accordance with the lifting position of the lifting column in such a manner that a path signal pertaining to a lifting position of the lifting column is continuously detectable by the measuring device. A controller is operably connected to the lifting position measuring devices to receive the path signals and to regulate the lifting positions of the lifting columns in response to the path signals.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2006Date of Patent: February 14, 2012Assignee: Wirtgen GmbHInventors: Peter Busley, Günter Tewes
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Patent number: 8087676Abstract: This disclosure relates to a suspension height adjustment mechanism comprising a main body, a rotatable assembly being rotatably mounted to the main body and having a first threaded portion, a tool engagement portion for rotating the rotatable assembly, a spring support having a second threaded portion engaging the first threaded portion, an anti-rotation means on the spring support adapted to cooperate with a corresponding anti-rotation means on the main body to prevent rotation of the spring support with respect to the main body, such that, in use, rotation of the tool engagement portion causes the spring support to axially translate along the rotatable assembly, thus adjusting the height of the suspension. This disclosure also relates to a vehicle suspension system comprising the suspension height adjustment mechanism and to a vehicle comprising the vehicle suspension system.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2009Date of Patent: January 3, 2012Inventor: Kevin Joseph McIntyre
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Patent number: 8079603Abstract: A system for regulating the position of a chassis of a motor vehicle has actuators which are to be set via actuating signals of a regulating and control unit, the position of the chassis or a part of the chassis being recorded via a gap sensor, and an adjustment is carried out via the actuators in case the measured sensor signals of the gap sensor deviate from specified setpoint values. On the vehicle's underside, at least three displacement measuring sensor device are located at positions that are at a distance from one another, each sensor device having a gap sensor that works in a contactless manner, via which at least two displacement measurements are able to be carried out in different directions.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2007Date of Patent: December 20, 2011Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Klaus Voigtlaender, Lars von Jakubowski
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Patent number: 8070171Abstract: The present invention includes methods and apparatus for easily adjusting a shock and strut assembly to modify the ride height of a vehicle by providing one or more spacers to be placed between the lower spring seat mount and the spring seat plate that rests upon it in order to raise the ride height of a vehicle. Embodiments include a unique location for a lower spring seat mount. The position of the lower spring seat mount may be lowered to reduce the ride height of the vehicle, and one or more spacers may be inserted above the lower spring seat mount to raise the ride height of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2008Date of Patent: December 6, 2011Inventor: Klaus Wohlfarth
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Patent number: 8057585Abstract: A compressor unit for an air suspension system of a motor vehicle, having a compressor, an air dryer and a compressed-air port for delivering compressed air from the compressor to the air suspension system and for introducing compressed air from the air suspension system into the air dryer. A ventilation line is provided from the air dryer to the environment of the compressor. The ventilation line has an upwardly convex bend when the compressor unit is in installed position.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 2009Date of Patent: November 15, 2011Assignee: WABCO GmbHInventors: Marc-Michel Bodet, Ludger Frilling, Frank Meiβner
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Patent number: 8042817Abstract: A self-propelled, dirigible agricultural vehicle includes a height-adjustable chassis with an axle and a driven wheel hub. The axle is shiftable between a normal clearance position above the wheel hub and a relatively higher elevated clearance position. The chassis further includes a kingpin and a spacer section that is removably connectable to the kingpin. The axle is in the normal clearance position when the spacer is removed from the kingpin and is in the elevated clearance position when the spacer is connected to the kingpin.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2009Date of Patent: October 25, 2011Assignee: AGCO CorporationInventors: Vijay W. Motebennur, James Slawson, John Buchena
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Publication number: 20110227301Abstract: A vehicle height adjusting apparatus of a hydraulic shock absorber has a hydraulic pump carrying out a pumping action by an extending and retracting motion of a piston rod with respect to a damper tube so as to feed a working fluid to a jack chamber of a hydraulic jack, and a blow valve releasing a jack pressure of the jack chamber which is pressurized by a plunger of the hydraulic jack exposed to a spring load on a suspension spring.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 31, 2011Publication date: September 22, 2011Applicant: SHOWA CORPORATIONInventors: Osamu Nagai, Hiromichi Matsuura
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Patent number: 7988166Abstract: A corner assembly includes a suspension module and a wheel assembly. In order to compensate for tolerance stack up in relation to a specified height of the corner assembly, the attachment between a damper of the suspension module and a knuckle of the wheel assembly is adjusted. The amount of adjustment is determined by measuring the assembled length of the suspension module, comparing the measured length to a standard length and determining an amount of adjustment necessary.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 2008Date of Patent: August 2, 2011Assignee: Tenneco Automotive Operating Company Inc.Inventors: John Heeren, Herman Sanen, Maarten Maes
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Patent number: 7980335Abstract: An omni-directional wheel includes a hub rotatable about a wheel axis and a first row of angled rollers about the hub each rotatably supported by the hub. There is at least a second row of angled rollers about the hub each also rotatably supported by the hub. The rollers of the second row are axially offset along the wheel axis from the first row, and rotationally offset from the first row about the wheel axis, and not coaxial with the rollers of the first row.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 2009Date of Patent: July 19, 2011Assignee: Foster-Miller, Inc.Inventor: Steven D. Potter
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Patent number: 7976040Abstract: A system and process for controlling vehicle loading on a multi-axle vehicle and improving maneuverability is disclosed. The system includes a reservoir of pressurized air and associated leveling valve that uses a relay valve to improve refill times when the vehicle returns from a dump mode operation to normal operation. The process reduces pressure in one or more of the axles when maneuvering the vehicle at predetermined slow speeds and maintaining that first predetermined pressure while the other axle(s) is at a greater pressure than the first axle. By preventing complete exhaustion of pressure from the suspension system, restoring air pressure is attained more quickly. Also, use of a relay valve enables higher flow rates to improve the refill time of the pneumatic suspension system after the dump operation.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2010Date of Patent: July 12, 2011Assignee: Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems, LLCInventors: Ron R. Stahl, Charles E. Eberling, John G. Nosse, John V. Ripley
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Patent number: 7976030Abstract: The invention relates to a device for adjusting the height of the body of a motor vehicle having a bearing spring which is connected between the wheel guiding element of the wheel suspension and the body and which is supported on a spring disk which is vertically adjustable by way of an actuating device, and having an overload spring which limits a defined spring path in the deflection direction. According to the invention, the overload spring is assigned an actuating device with which the overload spring is vertically adjustable, preferably following the vertical adjustment of the spring disk.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 2009Date of Patent: July 12, 2011Assignee: Audi AGInventor: Wilfried Michel