Abstract: A bifurcatable mobile rock crusher and method of transporting the same comprising providing a first segment which is separately towable on the highway and providing a second segment which is separately towable on the highway, where each segment is configured to be combined into one unit and towed as a unit on the highway.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to systems, methods and computer program products for detecting tire pressure loss in tires of a vehicle. The system comprises a sensor, which is arranged at the vehicle remotely from the tires, mechanically coupled at least indirectly to a chassis of the 5 vehicle, and configured to detect a property indicative of tilting spatial movement of the chassis. The system further comprises a processing unit, which is communicatively coupled with the sensor, configured to receive sensor signals from the sensor, the sensor signals being indicative of tilting spatial movement of the chassis, and configured to detect a tire pressure based on the sensor signals. The processing unit is configured to detect a tire pressure loss responsive to the 10 sensor signals indicating a tilting spatial movement of the chassis towards the at least one tire.

Abstract: An assembly for a wheel of a robotic vehicle and a method for overcoming an obstacle for said robotic vehicle. The assembly comprises a first arm portion and a second arm portion, the first arm portion being attachable to a chassis of the robotic vehicle at an attachment point and extending forwardly and downwardly relative to the attachment point in a direction of a movement of the robotic vehicle. The second arm portion is pivotably connected with the first arm portion at an arm pivot point and extends forwardly relative to the arm pivot point in the direction of the movement. The wheel is rotatably mounted on one end of the second arm portion opposed to the arm pivot point. A wheel rotation axis being positioned at least as high as the arm pivot point relative to a surface on which the robotic vehicle is positioned.

Abstract: A tandem mechanical spring axle/suspension system for heavy-duty vehicles includes a tandem assembly that comprises a front beam of a suspension assembly of a front axle/suspension system, a rear beam of a suspension assembly of a rear axle suspension system, and a mechanical spring. The mechanical spring operatively engages the front beam and the rear beam and extends longitudinally therebetween, as well as operatively engages a main member of the vehicle frame.

Abstract: A variable rate leaf spring vehicle suspension system includes a vehicle frame. The suspension system also includes a single leaf spring extending from a first end to a second end. The suspension system further includes a tension shackle pivotably coupled to the vehicle frame about an axis, the tension shackle defining a channel, the second end of the leaf spring disposed within the channel of the tension shackle, wherein the axis about which the tension shackle is pivotable is below the second end of the leaf spring.

Abstract: The invention relates to a load-carrying vehicle part with a first and a second wheel pair (10, 11), which are suspended in a respective bogie element (20) on each side of a frame member (14), a suspension (15) between each bogie element (20) and the frame member (14) on each side of the vehicle part to manipulate the frame member relative to the respective wheel pairs (10, 11), or support the frame member in a springing manner, each suspension (15) comprises a first and a second rocker arm (26A, 26B), wherein the first rocker arm is located in front of the second rocker arm viewed in the normal forward direction of driving of the vehicle part, that each rocker arm (26A, 26B) with its one end is pivotably in a joint (27, 27) in the frame member (14) and with its other end is pivotably in a joint (28, 28) in the bogie element (20) a first spring leg (25A) and a second spring leg (25B), wherein each spring leg with its one end (30) is articulately fastened to the frame member (14) and with its other end (31) is

Abstract: The invention relates to a suspension system of a vehicle axle, comprising:—a leaf spring (11);—a rear attachment device which is configured to be secured to a vehicle frame (2) and which receives a rear end portion (14) of the leaf spring (11) so as to allow said leaf spring rear end portion to slide longitudinally relative to the rear attachment device; wherein:—the rear attachment device (24) comprises a fastener (26) extending substantially transversally and a pad (28) secured on the rear attachment device above the fastener;—the leaf spring rear end portion (14) is substantially flat and has an upper face (15) in contact with the pad (28) and a lower face (16);—and the suspension system further comprises a retaining member (30) which is a piece separate from the leaf spring (11).

Abstract: A variable rate leaf spring vehicle suspension system is provided. The system includes a vehicle frame. The system also includes a single leaf spring extending from a first end to a second end. The system further includes a shackle operatively coupled to the vehicle frame and defining a channel, the second end of the leaf spring disposed within the channel of the shackle.

Abstract: An equalizer for a suspension system includes a pivot arm pivotably connected to first and second plates at a pivot point, first and second bump stops connected between the first and second plates on one side of the pivot point, and third and fourth bump stops connected between the first and second plates on the other side of the pivot point. First through fourth shock absorbers are disposed between the pivot arm and the first through fourth bump stops, respectively.

Abstract: A tow point assembly for attaching a screed to a traction unit of a paver, the tow point assembly including a tow arm having a forward end and a rearward end adapted to be secured to the screed, a tow point support adapted to be secured to the traction unit, and a tow point lift mechanism. The tow point lift mechanism has a first end adapted to be secured to one of the traction unit and the tow point support, and a second end connected to the forward end of the tow arm. The forward end of the tow arm defines a pull point axis where the traction unit pulls the screed and a pivot axis where the tow arm pivots relative to the traction unit. The pull point axis and the pivot axis are coaxial.

Abstract: A multi-rotational concrete screed to produce a level finished surface that includes a frame assembly, a boom assembly secured to the frame assembly at a first end and to a screed head at a second end, and a drive assembly. A powered turntable is positioned between the frame assembly and drive assembly permitting complete rotation of each with respect to the other.

Abstract: A hanger for axle/suspension systems of a heavy-duty vehicle includes an outboard wall spaced apart from an inboard wall. The outboard wall is connected to the inboard wall via a front wall. The outboard wall and the inboard wall are formed with an aligned opening extending through the outboard wall and the inboard wall. A top plate connected to the inboard wall, the outboard wall and the front wall. The top plate is formed with at least one circular opening or laterally oriented oblong-round opening and at least one laterally slotted opening. A fastener is disposed through the at least one circular opening or oblong-round opening. A second fastener is disposed through the at least one laterally slotted opening for mounting the hanger to a frame of the heavy-duty vehicle.

Abstract: An agricultural harvester has a chassis, a non-steerable driving front axle and a rear steering axle with a steering mechanism attached to the chassis. A steerable weight transfer axle has a rear steering axle to weight transfer axle linkage assembly linking the steerable weight transfer axle to the steering mechanism of the rear steering axle. The linkage assembly operates to steer the steerable weight transfer axle in coordination with the rear steering axle. The rear steering axle to weight transfer axle linkage assembly has a rear steer axle pivot arm pivotally connected to the rear steering axle and linked to the steering mechanism of the rear steering axle. The rear steering axle to weight transfer axle linkage assembly also has a reversing pivot linked to the rear steer axle pivot arm and to the steerable weight transfer axle.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a mobile platform for the delivery of bulk explosives to a blast hole. One embodiment of the platform includes a vehicle, a tank for holding an explosive composition, and a conduit structure for conveying an explosive composition between the tank and a blast hole. The platform also includes a load cell structure for providing weight/mass data related to whatever explosive composition is disposed in the tank. The conduit structure includes a movable tube that is used to convey the explosive composition from a discharge port associated with the tank towards a blast hole. The platform is configured to prevent the movable tube and any explosive composition located in the tube from adversely affecting the operation of the load cells.

Abstract: An articulatable suspension system for a vehicle includes a front axle assembly, a front pivot assembly, a rear axle assembly, a rear pivot assembly, a frame and at least one equalizer bar. The front axle is pivotally coupled to the front pivot assembly such that the front axle assembly is rotatable about at least one of a longitudinal axis or a lateral axis passing through the front pivot assembly. The rear axle is pivotally coupled to the rear pivot assembly such that the rear axle assembly is rotatable about at least one a longitudinal axis or a lateral axis passing through the rear pivot assembly. Front and rear dampeners extend between the front and rear axle assemblies and the frame. An equalizer bar is coupled to the front and rear pivoting assemblies by front and rear vertical linkages. The equalizer bar is pivotally secured to the frame.

Abstract: A multi-axle vehicle suspension system comprising a first torsion axle mounted to a first suspension pivot member, the first suspension pivot member pivotally coupled to a vehicle frame, a second torsion axle mounted to a second suspension pivot member, the second suspension pivot member pivotally coupled to the vehicle frame, a pivot member pivotally coupled to the vehicle frame, the first suspension pivot member pivotally coupled to the pivot member, and the second suspension pivot member pivotally coupled to the pivot member.

Abstract: A machine (100) includes a frame (102) portion and a tandem wheel arrangement, which includes a main linkage (312) and a stabilizing linkage (322) that are pivotally connected to the frame (102) portion. A first mount (304) and a second mount (304) are pivotally connected to the main linkage (312) and to the stabilizing linkage (322), such that the main linkage (312), the stabilizing linkage (322), the first mount (304), and the second mount (304) define a four-bar-linkage arrangement (202) that operates to transfer unbalanced torque loads from the first mount (304) and the second mount (304) to the frame (102) portion.

Abstract: A vehicle suspension includes a vehicle body, a supporting member, wherein a proximal end is attached to the vehicle body at a central axis. The supporting member is configured to secure an end of a vehicle suspension component to the vehicle body. A distal end of the support member includes a hanger configured to receive and to allow a tie-down hook to move in an arcuate path defined by a circle centered at the central axis.

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

Abstract: An equalizer for a suspension system for a trailer is configured to absorb or dampen the harsh shocks or vibrations coming off of the leaf springs proximate to a center frame hangar, thus allowing for a “softer” ride. The equalizer utilizes one or two independent equalizer arm assemblies or castings which are each rotatably secured within the equalizer. Each equalizer arm assembly or casting is operatively associated with one of the leaf springs such that upon upward movement of the leaf spring, the associated equalizer arm assembly or casting is forced to rotate within the equalizer and to deform a shock absorber provided within the equalizer. The shock absorber, upon the deformation thereof, absorbs the harsh shocks or vibrations which would otherwise normally be transferred from the leaf springs, to the equalizer, and thus to the frame of the trailer.

Abstract: An equalizer for a suspension system for a trailer is configured to absorb or dampen the harsh shocks or vibrations coming off of the leaf springs proximate to a center frame hangar, thus allowing for a “softer” ride. The equalizer utilizes one or two independent equalizer arm assemblies or castings which are each rotatably secured within the equalizer. Each equalizer arm assembly or casting is operatively associated with one of the leaf springs such that upon upward movement of the leaf spring, the associated equalizer arm assembly or casting is forced to rotate within the equalizer and to deform a shock absorber provided within the equalizer. The shock absorber, upon the deformation thereof, absorbs the harsh shocks or vibrations which would otherwise normally be transferred from the leaf springs, to the equalizer, and thus to the frame of the trailer.

Abstract: A machine (100) includes a frame (102) portion and a tandem wheel arrangement, which includes a main linkage (312) and a stabilizing linkage (322) that are pivotally connected to the frame (102) portion. A first mount (304) and a second mount (304) are pivotally connected to the main linkage (312) and to the stabilizing linkage (322), such that the main linkage (312), the stabilizing linkage (322), the first mount (304), and the second mount (304) define a four-bar-linkage arrangement (202) that operates to transfer unbalanced torque loads from the first mount (304) and the second mount (304) to the frame (102) portion.

Abstract: An equalizer for a suspension system for a trailer is configured to absorb or dampen the harsh shocks or vibrations coming off of the leaf springs proximate to a center frame hangar, thus allowing for a “softer” ride. The equalizer utilizes one or two independent equalizer arm assemblies or castings which are each rotatably secured within the equalizer. Each equalizer arm assembly or casting is operatively associated with one of the leaf springs such that upon upward movement of the leaf spring, the associated equalizer arm assembly or casting is forced to rotate within the equalizer and to deform a shock absorber provided within the equalizer. The shock absorber, upon the deformation thereof, absorbs the harsh shocks or vibrations which would otherwise normally be transferred from the leaf springs, to the equalizer, and thus to the frame of the trailer.

Abstract: An equalizer for a suspension system for a trailer is configured to absorb or dampen the harsh shocks or vibrations coming off of the leaf springs proximate to a center frame hangar, thus allowing for a “softer” ride. The equalizer utilizes one or two independent equalizer arm assemblies or castings which are each rotatably secured within the equalizer. Each equalizer arm assembly or casting is operatively associated with one of the leaf springs such that upon upward movement of the leaf spring, the associated equalizer arm assembly or casting is forced to rotate within the equalizer and to deform a shock absorber provided within the equalizer. The shock absorber, upon the deformation thereof, absorbs the harsh shocks or vibrations which would otherwise normally be transferred from the leaf springs, to the equalizer, and thus to the frame of the trailer.

Abstract: A multi-axle leaf spring suspension having a compliant equalizer. The leaf springs are mounted one behind the other on each side of the vehicle. Adjacent ends of the leaf springs are pivotally attached to the compliant equalizer. The compliant equalizer is pivotally mounted to a vehicle frame. The compliant equalizer comprises a pair of arms that are pivotally connected to each other in a scissor-like fashion. One end of each arm is pivotally connected to the end of a leaf spring. The other end of each arm is cooperatively arranged to contain and compress a spring member between them. The compliant equalizer reduces the magnitude of shocks that would be other wise transmitted to the suspension and frame by absorbing them through compression of the spring member.

Abstract: A vehicle includes a semi-active suspension including suspension dampers controllably adjustable in accordance with electronic stability control commands and ride and handling commands. Vehicle steering response states, turning direction states and vehicle dynamics states are binary coded in respective state variables and suspension control calibrations are binary coded in calibration words. Integrity and security of state variables and calibration words are ensured in efficient binary digit resource allocation schemes.

Abstract: Vehicle conversion; for example, a vehicle conversion kit to convert a vehicle from a first vehicular type into a second, different, vehicular type. The vehicle conversion kit includes: an intermediary sub-chassis unit adapted for attachment to a chassis of the vehicle; a first tandem suspension adapted to pivotally connect to a right side of the intermediary sub-chassis unit; and a second tandem suspension adapted to pivotally connect to a left side of the intermediary sub-chassis unit, wherein the first and second tandem suspensions comprise first and second ground directing units, respectively; and wherein each one of the first and second tandem suspensions is adapted for suspension from the intermediary sub-chassis unit through a shock absorbing unit.

Abstract: A front wheel suspension system is arranged to support a vehicle chassis suspended for movement relative to its wheels. The suspension system includes a double leaf spring arrangement on each side of the chassis. A first leaf spring connection arrangement pivotably connects each leaf spring to the chassis at a first end. A second leaf spring connection arrangement is connected to each leaf spring at its opposite, second end by a linkage arrangement which is carried on a pivot pin pivotably attached to a first arm of a lever that is supported by a pivotal connection on the vehicle chassis. A length adjustable unit is mounted on each side of the chassis, and each length adjustable unit being operatively connected to a second arm of the lever for each leaf spring, wherein each length adjustable unit is arranged to effect a substantially vertical displacement of the second end of each leaf spring relative to the chassis.

Abstract: An equalizer for a suspension system for a trailer is configured to absorb or dampen the harsh shocks or vibrations coming off of the leaf springs proximate to a center frame hangar, thus allowing for a “softer” ride. The equalizer utilizes two independent equalizer arm assemblies which are each rotatably secured within the equalizer. Each equalizer arm assembly is operatively associated with one of the front or rear leaf springs such that upon upward movement of either the front or rear leaf spring, the associated equalizer arm assembly is forced to rotate within the equalizer and to deform a shock absorber provided within the equalizer. The shock absorber, upon the deformation thereof, absorbs the harsh shocks or vibrations which would otherwise normally be transferred from the leaf springs, to the equalizer, and thus to the frame of the trailer.

Abstract: An isolator for use in a suspension system includes a front shaft and a rear shaft. A front spring arm and a front transitional arm are mounted to the front shaft. A rear spring arm and a rear transitional arm are mounted to the rear shaft. A resilient member is mounted between the front and rear transitional arms. As forces are applied to the front and rear link arms, the front and rear shafts rotate causing the front and rear transitional arms to rotate. As the front and rear transitional arms rotate, the resilient member is compressed and expanded accordingly.

Abstract: Arrangement for wheel suspension in a vehicle (1) including a vehicle frame (9) that bears at least two bogie axles (16, 17) which in turn each bear a wheel axle (5, 6), and also a first bogie element (18) and a second bogie element (19) which extend essentially in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle and are suspended in said vehicle frame (9). The invention includes at least one connection element (25; 41) extending essentially transversely to the longitudinal direction of the vehicle (1), which connection element (25; 41) is connected movably to at least one of the bogie axles (16; 17) and also to the bogie elements (18, 19), for transmission of a force which arises when relative movement takes place between the bogie axle (16; 17) concerned and said bogie elements (18, 19). By virtue of the invention, good comfort and a high degree of roll rigidity of the vehicle are obtained.

Abstract: The present invention is a suspension system for use with a trailer or truck having a frame and front and rear axles. In one embodiment, the suspension system comprises a front hangar having a lower portion, a bearing portion, and an upper portion engaged with the frame. The suspension system further comprises a hangar assembly having a lower portion, an upper portion engaged with the frame and a rocker arm having first and second bearing portions. The suspension system further comprises a rear hangar engaged with the frame and having a bearing portion. The suspension system further comprises a first saddle engaged with the front axle and a second saddle engaged with the rear axle. The suspension system further comprises a leaf spring having a first end portion engaged with the bearing portion of the front hangar and a second end portion engaged with the first bearing portion of the rocker arm.

Abstract: A triple axle suspension for use in a vehicle having a front axle, a medium axle and a rear axle mounted in triple axle relationship. It makes use of rigid beams to support the axles. It also makes use of equalizers to interconnect the beams, and it is devised in such a manner that one end of each beam is free to slide within the adjacent supporting structure. This suspension is very simple in structure and very efficient to equalize the load of any axle over all the axles of the triple axle suspension. When the axles are motorized, the suspension is also efficient to balance the pulls exerted by the wheels supported by the axles.

Abstract: A vehicle suspension for connecting a vehicle frame rail to a first vehicle axle and for connecting the vehicle frame rail to a second vehicle axle includes a fabricated equalizing beam connected to the first and second vehicle axles, a split bolster spring assembly connected to the equalizing beam, a fabricated saddle connected to the split bolster spring assembly, and a modular shear plate connected to the saddle and to the vehicle frame rail. The modular shear plate permits use of a universal saddle for mounting to a variety of vehicle frame configurations.

Abstract: A load distributing tandem suspension assembly for supporting a chassis of a vehicle. Front and rear elongated spring arrangements are connected to each other through an intermediate equalizer arrangement. The front spring arrangement has a leaf spring pivotally attached between the chassis and the equalizer arm of the equalizer arrangement. The rear spring arrangement has a shorter leaf spring pivotally attached to the equalizer arm and assisted by a shock absorber attached between the rear end of the leaf spring and the chassis. A guiding device guides the rear end of the second spring element up and down with respect to the chassis in a vertical course.

Abstract: A rigid axle is turnably supported from a vehicle and carries wheels at its ends. The axle is supported from the frame of the vehicle at each of its ends by a support member which is pivotably connected to the axle and has suspension members at its opposite ends pivotably connected thereat. The suspension member at the forward end of the support member extends upwardly from the support member and is pivotably connected at its upper end to the frame. The suspension member at the opposite end of the support member extends downwardly and is connected at its lower end to an equalizer lever connected to the frame or to a suspension member connected to a support member of a following axle.

Abstract: A mobile chassis (10) characterized by a central frame (12) which is supported by four wheels (60, 68, 74, 76). Wheels (74 and 76) are respectively support on one end of side beams (14 and 16) in turn pivotably mounted to central frame (12) at (70 and 72) to pivot about Y--Y axis. Wheels (66 and 68) are mounted on ends of a transverse beam (18) which is pivotably mounted at (52) to the central frame so that vertical movement of each wheel is compensated by pivoted movement of beams (14, 16 and 18). Rollers (56) and segments (42) constrain movement of the beam (18).

Abstract: Apparatus providing a pivot axis for rear wheels of a vehicle is disclosed. The vehicle has a chassis, an arm pivotally attached to the chassis and four rear wheels divided into two forward wheels and two rearward wheels. The apparatus of the present invention has two halves, wherein each half includes a rocking member and a ground directing member. The rocking member is pivotally attached to the arm at a central location on the rocking member and rotatably connected to one forward and one rearward wheel at front and back locations, respectively, of the rocking member. The ground directing unit is pivotally attached to the arm and to the rocking member near the rearward wheel. Accordingly, the ground directing unit provides a force to the rearward wheel while no force is provided to the forward wheel.

Abstract: An axle or boggie construction for a commercial vehicle has a triangular support (4) and an axle (1) made turnable by means of positionally adjustable longitudinal supports (16, 17). To stabilize the operation of the turninq axle (1), the springs (5, 6) of the axle are secured to a chassis frame (22) of the vehicle each with two substantially downwardly directed suspension rods (7, 10) positioned on the front and rear side of the axle (1), respectively, the suspension rods (7, 10) being at one end attached by a joint to the springs and at the other end to the vehicle frame.

Abstract: A tandem axle suspension for use in a vehicle such as a truck or semi-trailer, which is particularly efficient and stable and well adapted for use when the axles support steering wheels, has, on each side, front and rear leaf-spring assemblies that are aligned with respect to each other and positioned forwardly and rearwardly of an equalizer beam. The front leaf-spring assembly has a front end pivotably connected by a pin to the vehicle frame and a rear end connected by a shackle to the front end of the equalizer beam. The rear leaf-spring assembly has a front end pivotably connected by a pin to the rear end of the equalizer beam and a rear end connected by a shackle to the frame of the vehicle.

Abstract: An equalizing suspension arrangement for tandem steering axles. An extended shackle is provided for supporting the forward end of the rear spring (that is the spring supporting the rear steering axle), and this extended shackle is connected at one end to the rear end of a rocker beam which connects the front spring and rear spring. A radius arm pivoted on the frame of the truck is connected to the opposite end of the extended shackle. As a result of this construction the movement of the rocker beam and of the radius arm are coordinated so that the point of connection of the front end of the rear spring to the extended shackle moves along a substantially vertical path, and there is substantially no horizontal movement of the front support of the rear spring. Hence, there is substantially no horizontal movement of the rear steering axle and the toe-in and toe-out condition of the rear steering axle remains substantially the same as that of the front steering tandem axles.

Abstract: An all-terrain vehicle including centrally pivoted bogies on opposite sides of the vehicle body with main wheels and auxiliary wheels mounted on opposite ends of the bogies with the auxiliary wheels extending further outwardly from the vehicle body than the main wheels, stabilizing sockets on the bogies for receiving arms mounted on the vehicle body for supporting the bogies against lateral deflection, a linkage including an elongated link extending crosswise of the vehicle body and pivotally mounted on a standard, and links mounted between the ends of the elongated link and the bogies for effectively coupling bogies on opposite sides of the vehicle body to each other. A positive drive is provided to both the main wheels and the auxiliary wheels to cause them to rotate at the same peripheral speeds.

Abstract: A common carrier for a feller-buncher, forwarder, or skidder comprising a self-propelled vehicle including a chassis and a bogie on either side of the chassis. The bogie includes a walking beam with pneumatic wheels on either end of the walking beam. A first arm extends upwardly from the walking beam and is connected by links to a rocking beam mounted in a horizontal plane on the top of the chassis and pivoting about a vertical axis. The rocking beam is mounted on a sliding pad adapted to slide in a track along a longitudinal axis of the chassis. Hydraulic piston and cylinder means are provided for giving a limited longitudinal adjustment or displacement to the mounting pad.

Abstract: A vehicle is provided which maintains a substantially constant weight, and therefore traction, on all wheels, despite one wheel moving considerably higher or lower than the others, while avoiding a very soft spring suspension. The vehicle includes a chassis or body to be supported and a pair of side suspensions at either side of the body. In a six wheel vehicle, each side suspension includes a middle wheel, and front and rear linkages repectively coupling the front and rear wheels to the middle wheel. A body link pivotally connects the front and rear linkages together, with the middle of the body link rising or falling by only a fraction of the rise or fall of any of the three wheels. The body link pivotally supports the middle of the length of the body.

Abstract: A rocker arm stabilizer bar assembly that is designed for use with a tandem axle travel trailer and it is used when one of the four tires of the trailer goes flat. It is used temporarily in place of a spare tire until the driver can get to the nearest service station to repair the flat tire. The stabilizer bar assembly is clamped into position between the bottom surface of the trailer frame and the top surface of the rocker arm. The stabilizer bar is channel-shaped and it is vertically oriented. A bolt passes through a horizontal aperture in the stabilizer bar and a horizontal aperture in a spanner plate and it has a nut threaded on its end to clamp it into position adjacent the respective ends of a U-shaped bracket that supports the rocker arm. The stabilizer bar has a pair of intermediate horizontal walls having tongue portions that function to center the stabilizer bar within the walls of the U-shaped bracket that supports the rocker arm.

Abstract: An axle-to-beam connection for a vehicle having a beam type suspension system is disclosed. The beam-to-axle connection includes an axle connection, a beam connection and a resilient member located therebetween. The resilient member forms a continuous path between the axle connection and the beam connection such that the axle connection and the beam connection do not directly interface at any point. The axle connection includes a saddle plate, which retains the axle, and a pair of extension plates which are connectable to the saddle plate and extend down along both sides of the beam. The resilient member is of a non-uniform shape and thickness and includes a continuum of loci which is designed and shaped so that each locus assumes its fair share, but not more, of the torsional, vertical and horizontal forces exerted on the resilient member during operation of the vehicle.

Abstract: A compound axle assembly having two or more wheel axles for trailers, the wheel axles of which are supported by longitudinal guides and are spring-suspended by pairs of leaf type springs, the central portions of which are connected to the axle bodies. The outer ends of the leaf type springs are slidingly supported in brackets that are secured to the chassis of a vehicle. The inner facing ends of the leaf type springs are slidingly supported on a compensating arm that is pivotably mounted in a bracket secured to the vehicle chassis. In order to effect the sliding support of the leaf type springs, and to improve the damping of noise, the ends of the leaf type springs, at least on the compensating or pendulum arm, rest under initial tension against their sliding elements via pivotably mounted holders and a roller secured between the latter.

Abstract: A suspension system including a leaf spring assembly associated with a forward vehicle axle and an air spring suspension assembly associated with a rear axle with an articulated connection between them, such as by way of a shackle. The air spring suspension assembly includes a rocker arm pivotally supported from the chassis. A torque rod and beam assembly is pivotally supported from the chassis and is connected to the axle. An air spring is mounted between the torque rod and beam assembly and a rocker arm. The rocker arm has angled sections allowing accommodation of either wide base or narrow base air spring positions. Other angled sections of the rocker arm position the mounting bushing generally on a line between the air spring and the shackle to center the load on the bushing.

Abstract: A suspension system for a trailer or the like wherein the trailer comprises a pair of longitudinally extending frame members having a body mounted thereon. Spaced-apart front and rear axles are disposed beneath the frame members in a transverse relationship thereto and have ground engaging wheels on the ends thereof. The suspension system operatively secures each of the frame members to the axle. Each of the suspension systems comprises front and rear leaf springs mounted in a tandem relationship one behind the other with the forward end of the front leaf spring being secured to one frame member and the rearward end of the rear leaf spring being secured to the same frame member. The yoke interconnects the adjacent ends of the leaf springs and has an air suspension system secured thereto. The air suspension system is operatively connected to the body of the trailer.

Abstract: A spring assembly for a vehicle having a "slipper" connection between a main leaf spring and a boot comprises a lower additional leaf spring mounted on the boot and having a hooked free end which bears upwards against the end of the main spring, and engages the hooked end of the main spring when the limit of flexing is reached.