To Prevent Vehicle Tip Or Tilt Patents (Class 280/755)
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Patent number: 8596660Abstract: A three-wheeled motor vehicle includes a main body, two shafts, two wheel bases, a blocking structure fixed to the main body and a linkage module. Each shaft has first, second and third pivot points. The third pivot point between the first and second pivot points is pivoted to the main body. One wheel base is pivoted to the first pivot points. The other wheel base is pivoted to the second pivot points. The wheel bases and the shafts form a parallelogram four bar mechanism. The linkage module is coupled between the main body and the parallelogram four bar mechanism. When the main body tilts as the three-wheeled motor vehicle turning, the linkage module changes from a first state to a second state to drive the wheel bases to tilt. The linkage module in the second state leans against the blocking structure to limit the tilt range of the wheel bases.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2012Date of Patent: December 3, 2013Assignee: National Taiwan University of Science and TechnologyInventors: Mau-Pin Hsu, Hsin-Wei Su, Chih-Hao Wang
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Patent number: 8590909Abstract: A wheelie bar for leaf spring equipped cars includes first and second mounting brackets each having at least one attachment point and one bearing feature. First and second lower side members are pivotally mounted to the mounting brackets. A ground wheel is rotatably mounted to ends of the lower side members. First and second upper side members are pivotally mounted to the mounting brackets and fixedly attached to the lower side members. A vehicle bearing wheel is rotatably mounted to opposite ends of the first and second upper side members. Bearings are provided. A rear support member connects the upper side members and distal ends of the lower side members. At least one elevating facility urges the first and second lower side members upwardly toward an underside of a car. The attachment points have arcuate front ends and are fixedly attached to an axle housing of the car by welding.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 2012Date of Patent: November 26, 2013Inventor: John Calvert
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Patent number: 8573341Abstract: The present invention provides a suspension for a conveyance that is capable of traversing obstacles and rough terrain. The suspension includes a frame, a pivot arm, a front caster, a drive assembly and a rear caster. The pivot arm and the drive assembly are coupled and decoupled based on movement of the drive assembly.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2008Date of Patent: November 5, 2013Assignee: Invacare CorporationInventor: Gerald E. Fought
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Publication number: 20130264805Abstract: A wheelie bar for leaf spring equipped cars includes first and second mounting brackets each having at least one attachment point and one bearing feature. First and second lower side members are pivotally mounted to the mounting brackets. A ground wheel is rotatably mounted to ends of the lower side members. First and second upper side members are pivotally mounted to the mounting brackets and fixedly attached to the lower side members. A vehicle bearing wheel is rotatably mounted to opposite ends of the first and second upper side members. Bearings are provided. A rear support member connects the upper side members and distal ends of the lower side members. At least one elevating facility urges the first and second lower side members upwardly toward an underside of a car. The attachment points have arcuate front ends and are fixedly attached to an axle housing of the car by welding.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 6, 2012Publication date: October 10, 2013Inventor: John Calvert
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Patent number: 8534679Abstract: A wheelchair suspension comprises a frame, at least one pivot arm, at least one front caster, at least one rear caster, a stabilizing system, and a sensor. The pivot arm is coupled to the frame. The front caster is coupled to the pivot arm. The rear caster is coupled to the frame. The stabilizing system is coupled to the frame and the pivot arm. The sensor is arranged such that movement of the frame relative to the rear castor causes actuation of the stabilizing system to at least partially resist further movement of the frame.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2006Date of Patent: September 17, 2013Assignee: Invacare CorporationInventors: Gerold Goertzen, William A. Null, Jr., Robert L. Cuson
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Patent number: 8527153Abstract: An automated guided vehicle is equipped with a stabilization system for precisely locating, leveling, or otherwise positioning the AGV and its payload with respect to a work piece. The stabilization system includes one or more extension members that extend away from the AGV to engage the ground or a locating assembly installed in the ground. Each extension member may be part of a locating assembly or a leveling assembly. The locating assembly extension member may extend at least partially into an opening of another locating assembly to align the two locating assemblies. The locating assembly may also be configured to provide a leveling function.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2011Date of Patent: September 3, 2013Assignee: Fori Automation, Inc.Inventor: Paul George Doan
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Patent number: 8498773Abstract: A stability enhancing system for a vehicle having a suspension system including a spring is disclosed herein. The stability enhancing system includes, but is not limited to, a processor that is mounted on the vehicle. A sensor is mounted on the vehicle and is communicatively coupled to the processor. The sensor is configured to detect a dynamic condition of the vehicle. A locking mechanism is connected to the spring and is communicatively coupled to the processor. The locking mechanism is configured to inhibit the spring from releasing a stored energy when the locking mechanism is locked. The processor is configured to obtain the dynamic condition from the sensor, to utilize the dynamic condition to determine whether a wheel lift event will occur, and to provide commands to the locking mechanism to lock if the processor determines that a wheel lift event will occur.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2010Date of Patent: July 30, 2013Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Prabhakar R. Marur, Chandra S. Namuduri
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Patent number: 8459662Abstract: A mowing apparatus having a center of gravity having a frame member, at least one front ground engaging wheel rotatably connected proximate the front end of the frame member and at least two rear ground engaging wheels rotatably connected proximate the back end of the frame member so as to substantially prevent the mowing apparatus from rolling over as it traverses along an inclined surface.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2011Date of Patent: June 11, 2013Inventor: Jeffery D. Baird
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Patent number: 8454037Abstract: A load wheel assembly for a materials handling vehicle includes first and second spaced side members, at least one rotatable roller extending between the first and second side members. An interface structure provides a substantially rigid connection between the load wheel assembly and a mounting structure on the materials handling vehicle. The mounting structure includes a transverse bar and the interface structure includes a portion that engages and mates with the transverse bar to form a rigid connection between the interface structure and the transverse bar.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2010Date of Patent: June 4, 2013Assignee: Crown Equipment CorporationInventors: Lucas B. Waltz, Ryan M. Snodgrass, Kevin A. Gilliland, Eric P. Gasser, Keith G. Bornhorst, Kurt A. Hilgefort
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Patent number: 8423274Abstract: A vehicle provides upstanding and tilted (standstill for allowing a user to get on an off the vehicle) positions without movement of the vehicle. In the vehicle, even if the vehicle body tilts, a riding section is moved in the forward-backward direction to bring the vehicle to an orientation where the center of gravity (P) of the vehicle body is on a vertical line (V) passing through ground contact points (S1) or drive wheels (12). This controls the tilt angle of the vehicle body and the position of the riding section (13) so that the center of gravity (P) does not move. Thus, the upright position and the tilted position of the vehicle are achieved without movement of the vehicle (without rotation of the wheels). Further, influences such as an error in parameters and disturbance are compensated for by a balancer that moves in the forward-backward direction.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2008Date of Patent: April 16, 2013Assignee: Equos Research Co., Ltd.Inventor: Katsunori Doi
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Patent number: 8408351Abstract: A vehicle includes a suspension system operatively connecting a vehicle body to a plurality of wheels for maintaining contact between the wheels and a road surface, and for maintaining handling of the vehicle. A system for steering the vehicle and a braking system for decelerating the vehicle are also included. The vehicle additionally includes a plurality of thrusters, wherein at least one of the thrusters is arranged relative to each wheel and each of the plurality of thrusters is configured to generate a force. Furthermore, the vehicle additionally includes a controller configured for regulating the force generated by each of the thrusters to assist the suspension system with maintaining contact between the wheels and the road surface and maintaining handling, assist the steering system with steering, and assist the braking system with decelerating the vehicle. A method of assisting the vehicle suspension, steering, and braking systems is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2010Date of Patent: April 2, 2013Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Steven W. Holland, Nikolai K. Moshchuk
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Patent number: 8408598Abstract: An anti-tip system is provided for improving the stability of a powered vehicle, such as a powered wheelchair. The vehicle includes a drive-train assembly pivotally mounted to a main structural frame. A suspension system biases the drive-train assembly and its connected anti-tip wheel to a predetermined resting position. The drive-train assembly bi-directionally rotates about a pivot in response to torque applied to or acceleration forces on the vehicle. A linkage arrangement is provided and is characterized by a suspension arm pivotally mounting to the main structural frame about a pivot at one end thereof and an anti-tip wheel at the other end. The linkage may further include at least one link operable to transfer the bi-directional displacement of the drive-train assembly to the suspension arm. The link may include a bell crank member and/or may be resiliently compressible.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2012Date of Patent: April 2, 2013Assignee: Pride Mobility Products CorporationInventors: James P. Mulhern, Ronald Levi, Christopher E. Grymko
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Patent number: 8352122Abstract: An engine control apparatus that effectively suppresses a rise in rotation number of an engine in a jump of a vehicle. An engine control apparatus includes an acceleration detecting device for detecting an acceleration component of gravity acceleration in a perpendicular direction of the vehicle body based on a signal inputted from an acceleration sensor, and a control circuit for judging whether the vehicle has jumped or not based on the acceleration component to be detected. The control circuit suppresses a rise in rotation number of the engine when the vehicle is judged to have jumped.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2007Date of Patent: January 8, 2013Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Takahiko Hasegawa
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Patent number: 8328236Abstract: A floor conveyor, with a frame on which a drive unit and a load unit are attached, the load unit having a load carrying means adjustable in its height, further with two parallel wheel arms which are adapted to be mounted on the outer sides of the frame, each wheel arm mounting one load wheel, and with means for reducing the distance of the wheel arms from each other, wherein a frame portion or a frame plate is fixedly connected to the frame on each outer side thereof, said frame portion or frame plate having an outer bearing surface and holes which result in a first hole pattern, wherein a wheel arm plate is connected to the wheel arms, which has first through bores resulting in a second hole pattern, and an inner bearing surface.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2009Date of Patent: December 11, 2012Assignee: Jungheinrich AGInventors: Rainer Faehndrich, Lars Hildebrand, Matthias Roder
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Patent number: 8315765Abstract: In a method for reducing the rollover risk in vehicles, at least one state variable which characterizes the transverse dynamics of the vehicle is ascertained and is used as the basis for an intervention into the steering system and the braking system which stabilizes the vehicle. A multivariable control is carried out in which two control loops are superimposed, the first control loop being based on control of the yaw rate and the second control loop being based on control of the transverse acceleration. The steering system as well as the braking system may be adjusted via the first and second control loops.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2008Date of Patent: November 20, 2012Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Manfred Gerdes, Frank Niewels, Sylvia Futterer, Peter Ziegler
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Patent number: 8292326Abstract: A stabilizer is disclosed for a three-wheel vehicle having a frame extending between a front portion and a rear portion. The front portion of the frame supports a front steering wheel and with the rear portion of the frame supports plural driving wheels. The stabilizer comprises a right and a left stabilizing wheel mounted on a right and a left side of the frame. The right and left stabilizing wheels are positioned above the supporting surface when the three-wheel vehicle moves in a straight direction on a supporting surface. The right and left stabilizing wheels engage the supporting surface when the vehicle is turned in a right and a left direction respectively for stabilizing the three-wheel vehicle while maintaining steering ability. Preferably, the stabilizer includes a right and a left director for directing the right and left stabilizing wheels in a forward direction when the right and left stabilizing wheels are positioned above the supporting surface.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2010Date of Patent: October 23, 2012Assignee: Flowers IP L.L.C.Inventor: Michael J. Flowers
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Patent number: 8286738Abstract: A wheel set structure of an electric wheelchair is disclosed to include a wheelchair frame, which defines a first steering direction and a second steering direction reversed to the first steering direction, at least one swinging mechanism pivotally mounted on the wheelchair frame each having a swinging member and a wheel holder, at least one transmission wheel assembly connected to the swinging member each having a motor and a driving wheel coupled to and rotatable by the motor, and at least one first wheel assembly mounted on the wheel holder each pivotally holding a wheel. When the at least one swinging member is biased relative to the at least one wheelchair frame, the at least one first wheel assembly is biased with the at least one swinging member so that the elevation of the wheel of each first wheel assembly and the elevation of the driving wheel of each transmission wheel assembly are relatively changed at a constant ratio.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2009Date of Patent: October 16, 2012Assignee: Merits Health Products Co., Ltd.Inventor: Ming-Chuan Cheng
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Patent number: 8281900Abstract: In an industrial truck, in particular a fork-lift truck, having a vehicle frame and a load pickup means (16), which can be displaced in relation to the vehicle frame, at least one wheel which is closer to the load pickup means and, at a distance from this, at least one wheel (20) which is further away from the load pickup means being provided on the vehicle frame, the wheel axle (18) of at least one wheel (20) being capable of moving in relation to the vehicle frame along a movement trajectory with a movement component which is orthogonal with respect to the standing area of the industrial truck, in addition a loading force (B), which is caused by the tare weight of the industrial truck and a load (L) which may have been picked up by said industrial truck, acting on the at least one moveable wheel axle (18), which loading force changes operationally, the at least one moveable wheel axle (18) in addition has or can have an arbitrarily variable additional force applied to it.Type: GrantFiled: October 1, 2007Date of Patent: October 9, 2012Assignee: Jungheinrich AktiengesellschaftInventors: Rolf Boegelein, Oleg Plastinin, Henrik Schroeder, Ralf Werner, Christoph Zeidler
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Patent number: 8272461Abstract: A suspension for a vehicle is provided. The suspension includes, for example, a frame, at least one drive assembly and at least one caster pivot arm. The at least one drive assembly and the at least one caster pivot arm are coupled to enhance the vehicle's ability to traverse obstacles.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2008Date of Patent: September 25, 2012Assignee: Invacare CorporationInventors: Robert Bekoscke, Damon Jurkiewicz
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Patent number: 8246078Abstract: Disclosed is a safety device for motorcycle, the safety device for motorcycle comprising: a supporting assembly installed onto both lateral side of the motorcycle body, with a plurality of parts of which are rotatable relative to each other; a supporting wheel installed onto the supporting assembly which is rotatable relative to the supporting assembly a push-pull unit that connects the supporting assembly to the motorcycle body, pushes the supporting assembly in order for the supporting wheel contacting with ground, and pulls the supporting assembly in order for the supporting wheel for taking off the ground; and a control unit that controls the push-pull unit. According to the present invention the motorcycle will not easily fall down when it stops for a moment in driving, the driver can easily support the motorcycle, and the motorcycle will not incline over a predetermined angle in driving curved path.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 2012Date of Patent: August 21, 2012Inventor: Hiyun Yun
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Patent number: 8235419Abstract: A lateral stabilization system for a vehicle including a leg assembly attached to the vehicle, the leg assembly having a pair of spaced apart, substantially parallel legs extending rearwardly of a forward end of the vehicle, an articulating wheel assembly affixed to a distal end of each leg and a position control device that controls movement of the leg assembly in response to operating parameters of the vehicle. The articulating wheel assembly may be connected with the leg assembly so that it articulates in a first direction that is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle and in a second direction that is substantially perpendicular to the first direction.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2010Date of Patent: August 7, 2012Inventor: Peter Anthony Giarrusso
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Publication number: 20120179337Abstract: An automated guided vehicle is equipped with a stabilization system for precisely locating, leveling, or otherwise positioning the AGV and its payload with respect to a. work piece. The stabilization system includes one or more extension members that extend away from the AGV to engage the ground or a locating assembly installed in the ground. Each extension member may be part of a locating assembly or a leveling assembly. The locating assembly extension member may extend at least partially into an opening of another locating assembly to align the two locating assemblies. The locating assembly may also be configured to provide a leveling function.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 8, 2011Publication date: July 12, 2012Applicant: FORI AUTOMATION, INC.Inventor: Paul George Doan
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Publication number: 20120153605Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a counterweight system of a machine and method of assembling the counterweight system on the machine. The counterweight system includes a base counterweight and one or more counterweights. The base counterweight and the one or more counterweights comprises a first set of holes and a second set of holes. The base counterweight is coupled to the machine frame. A first counterweight of the one or more counterweights is coupled with the base counterweight through the first set of holes of the first counterweight and the second set of holes of the base counterweight by using at least one bolt. Similarly, a second counterweight of the one or more counterweights and the first counterweight are coupled through first set of holes of the second counterweight and the second set of holes of the first counterweight.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 25, 2011Publication date: June 21, 2012Applicant: Caterpillar Inc.Inventor: Tod L. Hetzel
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Publication number: 20120139220Abstract: Disclosed is a safety device for motorcycle, the safety device for motorcycle comprising: a supporting assembly installed onto both lateral side of the motorcycle body, with a plurality of parts of which are rotatable relative to each other; a supporting wheel installed onto the supporting assembly which is rotatable relative to the supporting assembly a push-pull unit that connects the supporting assembly to the motorcycle body, pushes the supporting assembly in order for the supporting wheel contacting with ground, and pulls the supporting assembly in order for the supporting wheel for taking off the ground; and a control unit that controls the push-pull unit. According to the present invention the motorcycle will not easily fall down when it stops for a moment in driving, the driver can easily support the motorcycle, and the motorcycle will not incline over a predetermined angle in driving curved path.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 9, 2012Publication date: June 7, 2012Inventor: Hiyun Yun
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Publication number: 20120133116Abstract: Disclosed is a safety device for motorcycle, the safety device for motorcycle comprising: a supporting assembly installed onto both lateral side of the motorcycle body, with a plurality of parts of which are rotatable relative to each other; a supporting wheel installed onto the supporting assembly which is rotatable relative to the supporting assembly a push-pull unit that connects the supporting assembly to the motorcycle body, pushes the supporting assembly in order for the supporting wheel contacting with ground, and pulls the supporting assembly in order for the supporting wheel for taking off the ground; and a control unit that controls the push-pull unit. According to the present invention the motorcycle will not easily fall down when it stops for a moment in driving, the driver can easily support the motorcycle, and the motorcycle will not incline over a predetermined angle in driving curved path.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 1, 2010Publication date: May 31, 2012Inventor: Hiyun Yun
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Patent number: 8181992Abstract: An anti-tip system is provided for improving the stability of a powered vehicle, such as a powered wheelchair. The vehicle includes a drive-train assembly pivotally mounted to a main structural frame. A suspension system biases the drive-train assembly and its connected anti-tip wheel to a predetermined resting position. The drive-train assembly bi-directionally rotates about a pivot in response to torque applied to or acceleration forces on the vehicle. A linkage arrangement is provided and is characterized by a suspension arm pivotally mounting to the main structural frame about a pivot at one end thereof and an anti-tip wheel at the other end. The linkage may further include at least one link operable to transfer the bi-directional displacement of the drive-train assembly to the suspension arm. The link may include a bell crank member and/or may be resiliently compressible.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 2011Date of Patent: May 22, 2012Assignee: Pride Mobility Products CorporationInventors: James P. Mulhern, Ronald Levi, Christopher E. Grymko
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Patent number: 8177257Abstract: A wheelchair base including a base frame and a pair of pivot arm assemblies each including a first pivot arm and a second pivot arm, pivotally coupled to each other for pivotal movement about a transverse pivot axis. The pivot arms defining first and second auxiliary wheel attachments opposed to the transverse pivot axis for attaching first and second end auxiliary wheels. Each pivot arm assembly including a link pivotally coupled to the second pivot arm intermediate the transverse pivot axis and the second auxiliary wheel attachment for pivotal movement about a link axis substantially parallel to the transverse pivot axis forming a drive wheel attachment intermediate the auxiliary wheel attachments. The pivot arm assemblies are mounted to the base frame substantially laterally opposed to each other through the link and first pivot arm such that the pivot arm assemblies are independently pivotable relative to the base frame.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2008Date of Patent: May 15, 2012Inventors: Eric Dugas, Carmon Landry
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Patent number: 8162351Abstract: Provided is a small mobile robot which moves back and forth and left and right while keeping its posture by two main wheels. The small mobile robot includes built-in auxiliary wheels to overcome topographical elevation differences. The auxiliary wheels of the small mobile robot are attached to a servomotor. The servomotor is driven by remote control, and the auxiliary wheel can be moved to the position required for operation. When the robot is in a normal state, the auxiliary wheels are retracted in the robot. When the robot meets a stepped topography, the auxiliary wheels are lowered out to contact a ground to support the main wheels going over the stepped topography. The small mobile robot includes a sensor for sensing obstacles and a control module to make a detour around obstacles while moving to a target point.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2009Date of Patent: April 24, 2012Assignee: Hoya Robot Co., Ltd.Inventors: So-Young Lee, Jeong-Ho Kang, Min-Kyu Kim
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Patent number: 8136839Abstract: An apparatus for providing counterweight to a vehicle on an inclined surface. In one embodiment, a control unit may engage a motor, which rotates a weight such that it is positioned to act as a counterweight for a vehicle on an inclined surface. In another embodiment, when an inclinometer detects the vehicle is positioned on an inclined surface, logic circuitry engages motor, causing a weight to rotate to a position such that it acts as a counterweight for the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2009Date of Patent: March 20, 2012Inventor: David Bourn
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Patent number: 8131433Abstract: A method and device for longitudinally balancing an agricultural vehicle, in particular a tractor, whereby at least one sensor, for detecting at least one respective stress affecting a longitudinal attitude of the agricultural vehicle, controls an actuating device of a ballast to move the ballast longitudinally along the agricultural vehicle, which at least partly compensates for the stress.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2008Date of Patent: March 6, 2012Inventor: Giorgio Bordini
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Patent number: 8118321Abstract: The vehicle, for example a stand-up wheelchair, comprises a frame (11) and, arranged on the latter, a seat device (19). On each side of the frame (11), the central wheel (13), which can be driven by a motor (27), and the front wheel (15) are operatively connected to each other by an endless chain (45). The frame (11) has a front part (21) and a rear part (23), which are connected to each other in an articulated manner by way of a joint (25). In the sitting position, the front wheels (15) are not in contact with the ground, which means that they do not obstruct the manoeuvring of the vehicle in a confined space. In the standing position, the front wheels (15) are in contact with the ground, but the central wheels (13) are not. The user, in the standing position, is thus able to turn about the axis of the vehicle, without the central wheels (13) having a blocking action.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2008Date of Patent: February 21, 2012Assignee: Levo WohlenInventors: Kurt Hunziker, Thomas Raber
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Patent number: 8108104Abstract: A rollover stability control system for a vehicle may include an object information device. An active suspension or an active steering system may be coupled to a wheel of the vehicle. The rollover system may include a lateral support system. A controller determines that an obstacle is an imminent tripping obstacle and raises or steers the wheel, to prevent the wheel from colliding with the obstacle, or deploys the lateral support system in response to a rollover notification signal and the determination. A rollover stability control system for a vehicle may include a chassis and a driving surface wheel. A wheel assembly is coupled to the chassis inward from the driving surface wheel relative to a longitudinal centerline of the vehicle. The wheel assembly contacts the driving surface when a roll angle of the vehicle is greater than a predetermined level.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 2006Date of Patent: January 31, 2012Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Davor Hrovat, Eric Tseng, Michael Fodor
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Patent number: 8104583Abstract: A materials handling vehicle is provided comprising a power unit, a mast assembly and a fluid supply system. The mast assembly is coupled to the power unit. The mast assembly comprises a weldment, a movable element and a ram/cylinder assembly coupled to the movable element to effect movement of the element. The fluid supply system includes manifold apparatus and at least one fluid line coupled to the manifold apparatus and the ram/cylinder assembly. The manifold apparatus provides pressurized hydraulic fluid to the ram/cylinder assembly via the fluid line to raise the movable element. The manifold apparatus is mounted to the mast assembly.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2006Date of Patent: January 31, 2012Assignee: Crown Equipment CorporationInventors: Craig J. Rekow, Ryan R. Berger, Thornton K. Lothrop, Roger J. Quinlan, Jr., William C. Jones, Jr.
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Patent number: 8095269Abstract: In certain embodiments, a method includes accessing data associated with one or more vehicle parameters and determining, based on the data associated with the one or more vehicle parameters, if a vehicle rollover is imminent. The method includes determining, in response to a determination that a vehicle rollover is imminent, a roll countering solution. The method includes determining, based on the roll countering solution, one or more vehicle thrusters to execute the determined roll countering solution. The method includes signaling the one or more vehicle thrusters to discharge to execute the determined roll countering solution.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 2009Date of Patent: January 10, 2012Assignee: Raytheon CompanyInventors: James A. Pruett, Timothy E. Adams, Christopher T. Moshenrose
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Patent number: 8038165Abstract: A foldable wheeled vehicle for individuals includes a main body, front and rear wheels joined on the body, and an anti-tip wheel joined on a rear end of the main vehicle body; the rear wheels will be in an immobilized state when the vehicle isn't in-use; the anti-tilting wheel will move to be below the rear wheels automatically when the vehicle is folded; thus, the vehicle in the folded position can be dragged with the front wheels and the anti-tip wheel contacting the ground; secondly, the anti-tip wheel will be in a higher position than the rear wheels when the vehicle is in an expanded in-use position; thus, when the vehicle is moving along a slope and tilting rearwards, the anti-tip wheel will contact the ground to prevent the vehicle from tilting rearwards excessively to overturn.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 2008Date of Patent: October 18, 2011Inventor: Arthur Wang
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Patent number: 8033572Abstract: The invention relates to a vehicle, in particular a construction vehicle, comprising a detachable ballast weight, a lifting means for lifting the ballast weight from a set-down position into a mounting position on the vehicle and a support means having at least one extendable support foot. An especially compact construction is achieved in that for extension of the at least one support foot the support means has at least one positioning cylinder and that the at least one positioning cylinder is designed at the same time for lifting and lowering the ballast weight.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 2010Date of Patent: October 11, 2011Assignee: Bauer Maschinen GmbHInventors: Maximilian Arzberger, Ludwig Andreas Huber
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Publication number: 20110204609Abstract: Anti Flipping Mechanism is a safety measure used for automobiles. It uses the concept of mechanical vibration damping systems to absorb the shock resulted from automobile tilting around its motion direction line. It uses arms equipped with required springs and absorbers fixed at certain positions on the automobile to prevent it from flipping ensuring passengers' safety.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 14, 2009Publication date: August 25, 2011Inventor: Mohamed Ahmed Gad Elkariem
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Patent number: 7976064Abstract: A device for facilitating the movement of a vehicle across ground comprises a track able to move around a board. The device includes a track for contacting ground that is mounted on a board. Brackets are provided for attaching the board to a vehicle. The track is movable in a direction independent of the direction of movement of the vehicle in at least the reverse direction relative to the vehicle's direction of movement. That track is able to move around the board by means of cylinders arranged in the form of a belt extending around the board between the board and the track. The device can be used to facilitate movement of off-road vehicles across obstacles. It can also be used to provide snow-free sledges and skis. It is also envisaged that the device may be incorporated into a trolley, which can be used on uneven surfaces.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2005Date of Patent: July 12, 2011Inventor: Yaragi Abdulaev
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Patent number: 7967335Abstract: The present invention relates to a three-wheeled vehicle (10), in particular industrial truck, comprising at least one stabilizing arrangement (28), which comprises a support element (40; 140) which may be fastened or is fastened to the underside of the vehicle chassis (30) of the vehicle (10) on a mounting (36) for the stabilized support of the vehicle (10) on the ground (34), when the vehicle has a tendency to tilt over. According to the invention, it is proposed that the stabilizing arrangement (28) is configured such that the support element (40; 140) may be mounted or/and may be adjusted on the vehicle (10) in a position ready for operation in which the vehicle (10) is located with its wheels (14, 18) on the ground.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 2008Date of Patent: June 28, 2011Assignee: Jungheinrich AktiengesellschaftInventors: Stefan Bergmeier, Carsten Schoettke
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Patent number: 7954577Abstract: An electric wheelchair is disclosed. The electric wheelchair includes a main frame correspondingly pivoted with a foldable chair while the folding of the chair connects with an accessory tip wheel. Moreover, the main frame is disposed with main wheels and a front wheel set arranged on front of the main wheel correspondingly on each of two sides thereof. A footrest that is pulled out or stored in the main frame is arranged between the two front wheel sets. In use, the footrest is pulled out of the main frame and the chair is moved and unfolded. At the same time, the accessory tip wheel tilted a little angle is extended out of the main frame by a connecting member. Thereby the problem caused by movement of the center of gravity of the wheelchair while moving can be solved and the safety of users is ensured.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2009Date of Patent: June 7, 2011Assignee: Freerider Corp.Inventor: Arthur Wang
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Publication number: 20110127757Abstract: Single movement stabilization system comprising the head of a vehicle for housing at least two stabilizer arms (2) arranged in a symmetric manner with respect to the symmetry plane of the head of a vehicle, perpendicular to the ground surface, and characterised in that: said stabilizer arm (2) comprises an extractable element (3) inside a sliding guide element (15), at whose ends an arm (4) with a support foot (5) is bound with hinge (14), as well as at least one actuator means of the movement of the arm (4), such as a hydraulic cylinder (8), at least one actuator element of the movement of the extractable element (3) such as a tie rod element (11); said stabilizer arms (2) are bound with each other along the symmetry plane of the vehicle head; said arm movement actuator means (8,11) are obliquely positioned with respect to the ground surface in order to utilise the maximum useful stroke; said movement actuators (8,11) are controlled by stopping means.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 23, 2008Publication date: June 2, 2011Inventors: Carlo Forini, Maurizio Baldinucci
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Patent number: 7950695Abstract: The safety guard mechanism for a lifting device is a mechanism that can automatically deploy a safety guard pivotally mounted to the lower surface of the frame of a portable aerial lift device when the lift is raised. By lowering the guard member, the distance between the lower surface of the base and the ground is decreased. The helical screw-based mechanical device includes a mechanical translator coupled with a rotator, the entire assembly interconnecting the guard member and a scissors-type lift so that raising the lift drives the lowering of the guard member. In the lowered position, the guard prevents tipping of the lift should one or more wheels enter a pothole or other depression. A helical screw latch is included to provide a self-locking feature.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 2008Date of Patent: May 31, 2011Inventor: Kan Cui
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Patent number: 7942445Abstract: A personal ability vehicle (PMV) includes a frame with front and rear subframes. A steering mechanism is mounted on the front subframe and includes a steering front wheel connected to a tiller. The rear subframe includes a suspension mount comprising a pair of rear support legs. An anti-tip suspension includes a pair of trailing arms each mounting a trailing wheel. Each trailing arm is pivotally mounted on a respective support leg whereby the suspension is inevitable through a limited range of motion about a transverse suspension pivotal axis. A pair of spring assemblies are attached to the trailing arms and are adapted for selectively engaging the support legs to provide a counter-rotational torque force around the suspension pivotal axis in order to resist backwards tipping of the PMV, for example, when it is ascending an inclined sloping surface. Relatively uniform proportional, weight distribution on said steering front, main and trailing wheels is maintained throughout a range of loads.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2009Date of Patent: May 17, 2011Assignee: Burke, Inc.Inventors: DuWayne E. Kramer, Jr., Brian W. Mellies
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Patent number: 7931300Abstract: An anti-tip system is provided for improving the stability of a powered vehicle, such as a powered wheelchair. The vehicle includes a drive-train assembly pivotally mounted to a main structural frame. A suspension system biases the drive-train assembly and its connected anti-tip wheel to a predetermined resting position. The drive-train assembly bi-directionally rotates about a pivot in response to torque applied to or acceleration forces on the vehicle. A linkage arrangement is provided and is characterized by a suspension arm pivotally mounting to the main structural frame about a pivot at one end thereof and an anti-tip wheel at the other end. The linkage may further include at least one link operable to transfer the bi-directional displacement of the drive-train assembly to the suspension arm. The link may include a bell crank member and/or may be resiliently compressible.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2010Date of Patent: April 26, 2011Assignee: Pride Mobility Products CorporationInventors: James P. Mulhern, Ronald Levi, Christopher E. Grymko
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Patent number: 7931431Abstract: A material handling system for use in storing and moving goods within multi-level storage warehouses, ocean going vessels and the like wherein storage areas are provided on at least one of the levels and wherein goods are automatically transferred to and from the storage areas and between the various levels by self-propelled load transfer vehicles. The load transfer vehicles move across the surface of the various levels and are also movable under their own power within open vertical trunks between the levels to thereby move goods to any desired area within the system, warehouse or vessel.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2006Date of Patent: April 26, 2011Assignee: BEC Companies, Inc.Inventors: Charles E. Benedict, Brian G. Pfeifer, Christian A. Yates, Scott K. Bladen, James R. Dobbs
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Patent number: 7914033Abstract: A method and apparatus suitable for stabilizing a two-wheeled motorcycle during operation. The apparatus is securable to a location near the front of the motorcycle engine. At least one arm assembly extends in a rearward direction relative to the motorcycle and outboard of the motorcycle's engine and operator's seat. A wheel assembly is mounted at an rearward end of the arm assembly and includes a wheel engageable with a surface supporting the motorcycle. A biasing assembly biases the arm assembly to rotate upward an adjustable limited distance at which the wheel is not engaged with the support surface. The biasing assembly applies a biasing resistance to downward rotation of the arm assembly over the limited distance for engaging the wheel with the support surface, yet allows the arm assembly to rotate upward farther than the limited distance to a raised position.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 2009Date of Patent: March 29, 2011Inventor: Carl Rae Nethery
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Patent number: 7896394Abstract: A wheelchair includes a frame, and a front pivot arm pivotally mounted to the frame at a front pivot point, the front pivot arm having a caster for supporting the frame. A rear pivot arm is pivotally mounted to the frame at a rear pivot point, the rear pivot arm having a caster for supporting the frame. A ground engaging mid-wheel drive wheel is connected to the frame. A linkage connects the front and rear pivot arms to each other in a manner such that an upward or downward rotation of one of the pivot arms about its pivot point causes rotation of the other pivot arm about its pivot point in an opposite rotational direction.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 2006Date of Patent: March 1, 2011Assignee: Sunrise Medical HHG, Inc.Inventors: Mark A. Jackson, John J. Tarter, Mark E. Greig, Rex W. Stevens, James M. Koerlin, Samuel D. Traxinger, Daniel Z. Zhou, Allen B. Killebrew
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Patent number: 7896358Abstract: A lift truck includes a magneto-rheological damper coupled between the base frame and a frame holding a vertically sprung suspended wheel. The damper is electrically connected to a vehicle control system, which increases and decreases the damping force as a function of at least one of a weight of a load on the forks of the lift truck, a height of the mast of the lift truck, and a speed of the lift truck. As the weight of the load, height of the mast and speed of the vehicle increase, the damping force is increased. As the weight of the load, height of the mast, and speed of the vehicle decrease, the damping force is decreased. When the damper is activated to increase the damping force, the truck can maintain a four point stance, providing a larger footprint for the center of gravity, thereby limiting truck sway or oscillation.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 2007Date of Patent: March 1, 2011Assignee: The Raymond CorporationInventor: William H Hoff
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Publication number: 20110031728Abstract: The invention relates to a vehicle, in particular a construction vehicle, comprising a detachable ballast weight, a lifting means for lifting the ballast weight from a set-down position into a mounting position on the vehicle and a support means having at least one extendable support foot. An especially compact construction is achieved in that for extension of the at least one support foot the support means has at least one positioning cylinder and that the at least one positioning cylinder is designed at the same time for lifting and lowering the ballast weight.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 3, 2010Publication date: February 10, 2011Applicant: BAUER MASCHINEN GmbHInventors: Maximilian ARZBERGER, Ludwig Andreas HUBER
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Patent number: 7862083Abstract: An actuation mechanism is used with the deployment apparatus mounting a running board on an automotive vehicle for laterally outward movement to increase rollover resistance for the vehicle. The actuation mechanism includes a cup with a hollow tube attached thereto to provide a path for the movement of a ball from the cup into engagement with the latching mechanism on the deployment apparatus. The ball is retained within the cup member until the actuation mechanism and the automotive vehicle to which it is mounted tilts to a minimum roll angle, whereupon the ball is released to roll down the hollow tube into engagement with the latching mechanism of the deployment apparatus. In one embodiment, a single cup with a pair of laterally extending tubes directs the ball to the deployment apparatus that requires actuation. In other embodiments, a separate actuation mechanism is provided for each respective deployment apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2006Date of Patent: January 4, 2011Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventor: A. Mangala M. Jayasuriya