A load scaling transducer for use In combination with a vehicle component includes a fixture having first and second enlarged ends configured to be secured to the vehicle component. A bridge section extends from the first enlarged end to the second enlarged end, with the thickness of the bridge section being less than the thickness of the first and second enlarged ends. A first sensor is secured to an inboard surface of the bridge section of the fixture and a second sensor is secured to an outboard surface of the bridge section of the fixture. Identical load scaling transducers may be secured in alignment with each other to inboard and outboard surfaces of the vehicle component to measure vertical load carried by the component while canceling out influence from other loading modes that are not meant to be measured.
G01G 19/12 - Weighing apparatus or methods adapted for special purposes not provided for in groups for incorporation in vehicles having electrical weight-sensitive devices
An axle for a heavy-duty vehicle comprising a central tube, a pair of spindles, and a bulkhead. Each spindle of the pair of spindles is disposed at a respective axial end of the central tube. The bulkhead is disposed at least partially within an opening formed into the central tube and attached to the axle, providing support and connection for conduits passing from outside of the axle into the central tube while preventing ingress of water, contaminants, and debris into the central tube.
B60B 35/02 - Dead axles, i.e. not transmitting torque
B60B 35/16 - Torque-transmitting axles characterised by the axle housings for the torque transmitting elements, e.g. for shafts
B60R 16/00 - Electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided forArrangement of elements of electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided for
An axle for a heavy-duty vehicle comprising a central tube, a pair of spindles, and a bulkhead. Each spindle of the pair of spindles is disposed at a respective axial end of the central tube. The bulkhead is disposed at least partially within an opening formed into the central tube and attached to the axle, providing support and connection for conduits passing from outside of the axle into the central tube while preventing ingress of water, contaminants, and debris into the central tube.
An independent wheel suspension includes an upper suspension member, a lower arm, an upper arm, an elongated plate and a first wheel motor linkage arm. The upper suspension member includes an upper end and a first arm. The first arm is secured to the elongated plate. The lower arm and the upper arm extend longitudinally. A first end of the lower is positioned between and pivotally attached to the first arm and the elongated plate. A first end of the upper arm is positioned between and is pivotally attached to the first arm and the elongated plate above the lower arm. The first wheel motor linkage arm which accommodates a motor wheel mount secured or securable to a wheel motor is pivotally attached at a first end to the lower arm and at a second end to the second end of the upper arm.
A clamp group mounting of a leaf spring to a round axle including alignment features is disclosed, which includes a round axle, a leaf spring and a clamp group connecting the leaf spring to a laterally extending axle. A locator ring is welded to an upper arcuate surface of the axle and is received in a recess in a spring seat. The clamp group includes the spring seat, a top pad and a plurality of fasteners that connect the top pad, leaf spring, and spring seat to the axle. The leaf spring extends longitudinally and at least forward or rearward relative to the axle, and includes a bore that receives a locator element that extends at least upward or downward from the leaf spring.
An axle-to-beam connection for an axle/suspension system of a heavy-duty vehicle that includes an axle, a beam with an alignment assembly, and an axle mount assembly. The alignment assembly is integrally formed with or is rigidly attached to the beam. The axle mount assembly intimately contacts and captures the axle. The axle is rigidly secured to the axle mount assembly without line welds. The axle mount assembly is removably connected to the alignment assembly to secure the axle to the beam.
An axle-to-beam connection for an axle/suspension system of a heavy-duty vehicle that includes an axle (217), a beam (212) with an alignment assembly (250), and an axle mount assembly (270). The alignment assembly (250) is integrally formed with or is rigidly attached to the beam (212). The axle mount assembly (270) intimately contacts and captures the axle (217). The axle (217) is rigidly secured to the axle mount assembly (270) without line welds. The axle mount assembly (270) is removably connected to the alignment assembly (250) to secure the axle to the beam (212).
A guide pin assembly (80) for use with heavy-duty vehicle disc brake systems, the guide pin assembly (80) comprising a hollow guide pin (82), a fastener (92), a separate torque-separable shear adaptor (94). The guide pin (82) mounts a component of the disc brake system. The fastener (92) is at least partially disposed through the guide pin (82) and engages another component of the disc brake system to attach the guide pin (82) to the other component. The shear adaptor (94) is at least partially disposed within the guide pin (82) and is removably attached to the fastener (92).
F16D 55/2265 - Brakes with substantially-radial braking surfaces pressed together in axial direction, e.g. disc brakes with axially-movable discs or pads pressed against axially-located rotating members by clamping an axially-located rotating disc between movable braking members, e.g. movable brake discs or brake pads with a common actuating member for the braking members the braking members being brake pads in which the common actuating member is moved axially the axial movement being guided by one or more pins
F16D 55/227 - Brakes with substantially-radial braking surfaces pressed together in axial direction, e.g. disc brakes with axially-movable discs or pads pressed against axially-located rotating members by clamping an axially-located rotating disc between movable braking members, e.g. movable brake discs or brake pads with a common actuating member for the braking members the braking members being brake pads in which the common actuating member is moved axially the axial movement being guided by one or more pins by two pins
13.
SEMI-PERMANENT SHIM FOR HEAVY-DUTY VEHICLE DISC BRAKE SYSTEMS
A shim (30) for use with a component (10) of a heavy-duty vehicle disc brake system, said shim (30) comprising a pair of legs (32, 34), a transition (36), and at least one tab (54). The pair of legs (32, 34) disposed upon and in contact with the component (10) of the heavy- duty vehicle disc brake system. The transition (36) extends between and is integrally formed with the pair of legs (32, 34). The tab (54) is connected to and extends away from the plane of one of the pair of legs (32, 34). The tab (54) also engages and is semi-permanently attached to the component (10).
A guide pin assembly for use with heavy-duty vehicle disc brake systems, the guide pin assembly comprising a hollow guide pin, a fastener, a separate torque-separable shear adaptor. The guide pin mounts a component of the disc brake system. The fastener is at least partially disposed through the guide pin and engages another component of the disc brake system to attach the guide pin to the other component. The shear adaptor is at least partially disposed within the guide pin and is removably attached to the fastener.
A shim for use with a component of a heavy-duty vehicle disc brake system, said shim comprising a pair of legs, a transition, and at least one tab. The pair of legs disposed upon and in contact with the component of the heavy-duty vehicle disc brake system. The transition extends between and is integrally formed with the pair of legs. The tab is connected to and extends away from the plane of one of the pair of legs. The tab also engages and is semi-permanently attached to the component.
A lift axle suspension system incorporating a lift paddle is disclosed. The lift paddle comprising a first pad, a second pad and a rigid support arm securing the first pad and the second pad in fixed relation to one another. The first pad is attached to a lift spring, the second pad is secured to the bottom surface of the main support member/leaf spring. Actuation of the lift spring causes the axle to be lifted out of contact with the ground surface.
B60G 11/46 - Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location, or kind of springs having springs of different kinds including leaf springs and also fluid springs
An under beam lift assembly for a heavy-duty vehicle that is removably connectable with an axle/suspension system of the heavy-duty vehicle. The under beam lift assembly includes structure that enables the lift assembly to pivot in an axis different than an axis of a pivotal connection between a suspension assembly and a hanger of the axle/suspension system. The under beam lift assembly is free of contact with the pivotal connection between the suspension assembly and the hanger of the axle/suspension system.
B60G 17/015 - Resilient suspensions having means for adjusting the spring or vibration-damper characteristics, for regulating the distance between a supporting surface and a sprung part of vehicle or for locking suspension during use to meet varying vehicular or surface conditions, e.g. due to speed or load the regulating means comprising electric or electronic elements
B60G 9/02 - Resilient suspensions for a rigid axle or axle housing for two or more wheels the axle or housing being pivotally mounted on the vehicle
An under beam lift assembly (350) for a heavy-duty vehicle that is removably connectable with an axle/suspension system (210) of the heavy-duty vehicle. The under beam lift assembly (350) includes structure that enables the lift assembly to pivot in an axis different than an axis of a pivotal connection between a suspension assembly and a hanger of the axle/suspension system. The under beam lift assembly is free of contact with the pivotal connection between the suspension assembly and the hanger of the axle/suspension system.
A vehicle suspension system includes a wishbone-shaped linkage having a base, with two limbs extending from the base. Each limb is configured to support a laterally and longitudinally oriented bushing assembly, which may include a bushing assembly received by a laterally and longitudinally oriented mounting tube associated with a free end of the limb. The base includes upper and lower plates wrapping only partially around a laterally extending cross tube. A modular bushing assembly including a pair of bushing lobes and a bar pin is partially received within the cross tube, with the bushing lobes being adjustably positioned on the bar pin to allow for adjustment of the conical rate of the bushing assembly. A mounting assembly includes a pair of mount blocks secured to a vehicle axle, with the bar pin being secured with respect to the axle via the mount blocks, thereby associating the linkage to the axle.
A subframe for heavy-duty vehicles, the subframe comprising a pair of elongated, longitudinal main members; at least one pair of hangers; and a battery storage structure integrated into the subframe. Each hanger of the at least one pair of hangers is attached to a respective one of the main members.
B60K 1/04 - Arrangement or mounting of electrical propulsion units of the electric storage means for propulsion
B62D 21/11 - Understructures, i.e. chassis frame on which a vehicle body may be mounted with resilient means for suspension
H01M 50/249 - MountingsSecondary casings or framesRacks, modules or packsSuspension devicesShock absorbersTransport or carrying devicesHolders specially adapted for aircraft or vehicles, e.g. cars or trains
12 - Land, air and water vehicles; parts of land vehicles
Goods & Services
land vehicle components, namely, axles having corrosion protection properties for heavy-duty vehicles; land vehicle components, namely, suspension system components having corrosion protection properties for heavy-duty vehicles in the nature of suspension beam assemblies, air spring mounting plates, frame brackets, subframes, channels, gussets, steering assemblies, wheel end assemblies, cam brackets, axle stops, U-beam assemblies, and axle spring seats
22.
HEAVY-DUTY VEHICLE SUBFRAME WITH BATTERY STORAGE STRUCTURE
A subframe for heavy-duty vehicles, the subframe comprising a pair of elongated, longitudinal main members; at least one pair of hangers; and a battery storage structure integrated into the subframe. Each hanger of the at least one pair of hangers is attached to a respective one of the main members.
B62D 21/11 - Understructures, i.e. chassis frame on which a vehicle body may be mounted with resilient means for suspension
B62D 21/02 - Understructures, i.e. chassis frame on which a vehicle body may be mounted comprising longitudinally or transversely arranged frame members
A slack adjuster assembly for use with a heavy-duty vehicle drum brake system, the slack adjuster assembly comprising a slack adjuster, a cam tube assembly, and an inboard sealing assembly and an outboard sealing assembly. The outboard sealing assembly includes a tubular sealing ring having an L-shaped projection extending radially-inward. The inboard sealing assembly engages an inboard side of the slack adjuster to form a 360-degree interface, and the outboard sealing assembly engages an outboard side of the slack adjuster to form another 360-degree interface. The L-shaped projection limits grease being purged from the cam tube assembly.
A slack adjuster assembly (100) for use in a heavy-duty vehicle drum brake system, the slack adjuster assembly comprising a slack adjuster (102), an inboard sealing assembly (110), and a sensor arrangement (150). The slack adjuster is mounted on an inboard end (84) of a camshaft (86) of the drum brake system. The inboard sealing assembly sealingly engages with an inboard side of the slack adjuster. The sensor arrangement measures rotation of the camshaft and is at least partially disposed within the inboard sealing assembly to protect the sensor arrangement from impact damage, water, chemicals, and debris.
F16D 65/22 - Actuating mechanisms for brakesMeans for initiating operation at a predetermined position arranged in or on the brake adapted for pressing members apart
A slack adjuster assembly for use in a heavy-duty vehicle drum brake system, the slack adjuster assembly comprising a slack adjuster, an inboard sealing assembly, and a sensor arrangement. The slack adjuster is mounted on an inboard end of a camshaft of the drum brake system. The inboard sealing assembly sealingly engages with an inboard side of the slack adjuster. The sensor arrangement measures rotation of the camshaft and is at least partially disposed within the inboard sealing assembly to protect the sensor arrangement from impact damage, water, chemicals, and debris.
A slack adjuster assembly (280) for heavy-duty vehicles, the slack adjuster assembly (280) comprising a slack adjuster (282) and an inboard sealing assembly (380). The slack adjuster (282) is disposed about and has an internal spline (302) for receiving an external spline (288) of an inboard end (284) of a camshaft (286) of a camshaft assembly of the heavy-duty vehicle. The internal spline (302) has a radial clearance (R) from the external spline (288). The inboard sealing assembly (380) includes mechanical components that cooperate with the radial clearance (R) to increase grease flow and distribution. The inboard sealing assembly (380) is disposed over the inboard end (284) of the camshaft (286) and engages an inboard side of the slack adjuster (282) to form a 360-degree seal about the inboard side.
A slack adjuster assembly for heavy-duty vehicles, the slack adjuster assembly comprising a slack adjuster and an inboard sealing assembly. The slack adjuster is disposed about and has an internal spline for receiving an external spline of an inboard end of a camshaft of a camshaft assembly of the heavy-duty vehicle. The internal spline has a radial clearance from the external spline. The inboard sealing assembly includes mechanical components that cooperate with the radial clearance to increase grease flow and distribution. The inboard sealing assembly is disposed over the inboard end of the camshaft and engages an inboard side of the slack adjuster to form a 360-degree seal about the inboard side.
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.
B60G 5/053 - Resilient suspensions for a set of tandem wheels or axles having interrelated movements with two or more pivoted arms, the movements of which are resiliently interrelated a leafspring being used as equilibration unit between two axle-supporting units
B60G 9/00 - Resilient suspensions for a rigid axle or axle housing for two or more wheels
B60G 11/10 - Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location, or kind of springs having leaf springs only characterised by means specially adapted for attaching the spring to axle or sprung part of the vehicle
B60G 15/06 - Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location, or type of combined spring and vibration- damper, e.g. telescopic type having mechanical spring and fluid damper
29.
Damping air spring for heavy-duty vehicle axle/suspension systems
A damping air spring for heavy-duty vehicle axle/suspension systems. The damping air spring includes a piston chamber and a bellows chamber and at least one opening between the chambers to provide restricted fluid communication between the chambers. A relationship between a cross-sectional area of the at least one opening in square inches to a volume of the piston chamber in cubic inches to a volume of the bellows chamber in cubic inches to a mean effective area of the air spring in square inches, or of the at least one opening in square inches to a volume of the piston chamber in cubic inches to a volume of the bellows chamber in cubic inches to a unitless ratio of the volume of the bellows chamber to the volume of the piston chamber, provides damping characteristics to the air spring over a first and second critical range of frequencies.
B60G 15/12 - Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location, or type of combined spring and vibration- damper, e.g. telescopic type having fluid spring and fluid damper
F16F 9/04 - Springs, vibration-dampers, shock-absorbers, or similarly-constructed movement-dampers using a fluid or the equivalent as damping medium using gas only in a chamber with a flexible wall
F16F 9/05 - Springs, vibration-dampers, shock-absorbers, or similarly-constructed movement-dampers using a fluid or the equivalent as damping medium using gas only in a chamber with a flexible wall the flexible wall being of the rolling diaphragm type
30.
Damping air spring for heavy-duty vehicle axle/suspension systems
A damping air spring for heavy-duty vehicle axle/suspension systems. The damping air spring includes a first chamber and a second chamber and at least one opening between the first chamber and second chamber to provide restricted fluid communication between the first chamber and the second chamber. An adsorptive material is disposed within the first chamber or the second chamber and works in conjunction with the at least one opening to provide damping characteristics to the air spring over a first and second critical range of frequencies.
B60G 15/12 - Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location, or type of combined spring and vibration- damper, e.g. telescopic type having fluid spring and fluid damper
B60G 11/27 - Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location, or kind of springs having fluid springs only, e.g. hydropneumatic springs wherein the fluid is a gas
31.
DAMPING AIR SPRING FOR HEAVY-DUTY VEHICLE AXLE/SUSPENSION SYSTEMS
A damping air spring (224) for heavy-duty vehicle axle/suspension systems. The damping air spring (224) includes a piston chamber (299) and a bellows chamber (298) and at least one opening (285) between the chambers to provide restricted fluid communication between the chambers. A relationship between a cross-sectional area of the at least one opening (285) in square inches to a volume (V1b) of the piston chamber (299) in cubic inches to a volume (V2b) of the bellows chamber (298) in cubic inches to a mean effective area of the air spring (224) in square inches or of the at least one opening (285) in square inches to a volume (V1b) of the piston chamber (299) in cubic inches to a volume (V2b) of the bellows chamber (298) in cubic inches to a unitless ratio of the volume (V2b) of the bellows chamber (298) to the volume (V1b) of the piston chamber (299) provides damping characteristics to the air spring (224) over a first and second critical range of frequencies.
F16F 9/04 - Springs, vibration-dampers, shock-absorbers, or similarly-constructed movement-dampers using a fluid or the equivalent as damping medium using gas only in a chamber with a flexible wall
F16F 9/05 - Springs, vibration-dampers, shock-absorbers, or similarly-constructed movement-dampers using a fluid or the equivalent as damping medium using gas only in a chamber with a flexible wall the flexible wall being of the rolling diaphragm type
32.
DAMPING AIR SPRING FOR HEAVY-DUTY VEHICLE AXLE/SUSPENSION SYSTEMS
A damping air spring for heavy-duty vehicle axle/suspension systems. The damping air spring includes a first chamber and a second chamber and at least one opening between the first chamber and second chamber to provide restricted fluid communication between the first chamber and the second chamber. An adsorptive material is disposed within the first chamber or the second chamber and works in conjunction with the at least one opening to provide damping characteristics to the air spring over a first and second critical range of frequencies.
B60G 11/27 - Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location, or kind of springs having fluid springs only, e.g. hydropneumatic springs wherein the fluid is a gas
B60G 13/10 - Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location, or type of vibration-dampers having dampers dissipating energy, e.g. frictionally of fluid type pneumatic
F16F 9/05 - Springs, vibration-dampers, shock-absorbers, or similarly-constructed movement-dampers using a fluid or the equivalent as damping medium using gas only in a chamber with a flexible wall the flexible wall being of the rolling diaphragm type
A sensor mounting arrangement for a drum brake assembly of a heavy-duty vehicle comprising a sensor assembly mounted on a cam tube of the drum brake assembly. The cam tube is formed with an opening. The sensor assembly includes a detector that is at least partially disposed in or adjacent to the opening of the cam tube and a target that is disposed about an outer surface of a camshaft of the drum brake assembly.
F16D 51/22 - Brakes with outwardly-movable braking members co-operating with the inner surface of a drum or the like shaped as brake-shoes pivoted on a fixed or nearly-fixed axis with two brake-shoes extending in opposite directions from their pivots mechanically actuated
F16D 65/22 - Actuating mechanisms for brakesMeans for initiating operation at a predetermined position arranged in or on the brake adapted for pressing members apart
F16D 66/00 - Arrangements for monitoring working conditions of brakes, e.g. wear or temperature
A sensor mounting arrangement for a drum brake assembly of a heavy-duty vehicle comprising a sensor assembly mounted on a cam tube of the drum brake assembly. The cam tube is formed with an opening. The sensor assembly includes a detector that is at least partially disposed in or adjacent to the opening of the cam tube and a target that is disposed about an outer surface of a camshaft of the drum brake assembly.
F16D 66/00 - Arrangements for monitoring working conditions of brakes, e.g. wear or temperature
F16D 65/22 - Actuating mechanisms for brakesMeans for initiating operation at a predetermined position arranged in or on the brake adapted for pressing members apart
A fabricated torque arm for use in a vehicle suspension, including a rod having a solid rectangular cross-section, the rod having a first end and an oppositely disposed second end, a first bushing hub, and wherein the rod is only a single piece cut from a metal plate or sheet, wherein the first bushing hub comprises cut tubing, wherein the first end of the rod has a radius that conforms to an outer surface of the first bushing hub, and wherein the first end of the rod is welded to the outer surface of the first bushing hub.
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Industrial automated systems and components thereof, namely, automated computer numerical control machines for machining and/or milling components, and automated machines for manufacturing assembly, manufacturing mass production, welding, swaging, bending, torquing, pressing, measuring, snapping, ultrasonic welding, inspection, insertion, and/or packaging of components; industrial machine parts, namely, tooling fixtures used in the joining of two or more components via welding, swaging, bending, torquing, pressing, and/or ultrasonic welding, tooling fixtures used in positioning components to allow for measurement, inspection, marking, and/or insertion of the components, and tooling fixtures used to precisely position components to allow for precise bending of the components Industrial automated control systems, namely, automated control systems comprised of downloadable or pre-installed computer processor based logic software and hardware, electrical circuits, and/or pneumatic circuits used to control and/or monitor the status of industrial machinery in the nature of automated computer numerical control machines for machining and/or milling components, and automated machines for manufacturing assembly, manufacturing mass production, welding, swaging, bending, torquing, pressing, measuring, snapping, ultrasonic welding, inspection, insertion, and/or packaging of components Design and development of industrial automated systems and components thereof; design and development of custom developed machinery integrated with commercially available components to produce industrial automated systems and implementation of automation components and processes into existing industrial systems; design and development of industrial tooling fixtures
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Industrial automated systems and components thereof, namely, automated computer numerical control machines for machining and/or milling components, and automated machines for manufacturing assembly, manufacturing mass production, welding, swaging, bending, torquing, pressing, measuring, snapping, ultrasonic welding, inspection, insertion, and/or packaging of components; industrial machine parts, namely, tooling fixtures used in the joining of two or more components via welding, swaging, bending, torquing, pressing, and/or ultrasonic welding, tooling fixtures used in positioning components to allow for measurement, inspection, marking, and/or insertion of the components, and tooling fixtures used to precisely position components to allow for precise bending of the component Industrial automated control systems, namely, automated control systems comprised of downloadable or pre-installed computer processor based logic software and hardware, electrical circuits, and/or pneumatic circuits used to control and/or monitor the status of industrial machinery in the nature of automated computer numerical control machines for machining and/or milling components, and automated machines for manufacturing assembly, manufacturing mass production, welding, swaging, bending, torquing, pressing, measuring, snapping, ultrasonic welding, inspection, insertion, and/or packaging of components Design and development of industrial automated systems and components thereof; design and development of custom developed machinery integrated with commercially available components to produce industrial automated systems and implementation of automation components and processes into existing industrial systems; design and development of industrial tooling fixtures
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Industrial automated systems and components thereof, namely, automated computer numerical control machines for machining and/or milling components, and automated machines for manufacturing assembly, manufacturing mass production, welding, swaging, bending, torquing, pressing, measuring, snapping, ultrasonic welding, inspection, insertion, and/or packaging of components; industrial machine parts, namely, tooling fixtures used in the joining of two or more components via welding, swaging, bending, torquing, pressing, and/or ultrasonic welding, tooling fixtures used in positioning components to allow for measurement, inspection, marking, and/or insertion of the components, and tooling fixtures used to precisely position components to allow for precise bending of the components Industrial automated control systems, namely, automated control systems comprised of downloadable or pre-installed computer processor based logic software and hardware, electrical circuits, and/or pneumatic circuits used to control and/or monitor the status of industrial machinery in the nature of automated computer numerical control machines for machining and/or milling components, and automated machines for manufacturing assembly, manufacturing mass production, welding, swaging, bending, torquing, pressing, measuring, snapping, ultrasonic welding, inspection, insertion, and/or packaging of components Design and development of industrial automated systems and components thereof; design and development of custom developed machinery integrated with commercially available components to produce industrial automated systems and implementation of automation components and processes into existing industrial systems; design and development of industrial tooling fixtures
39.
CLAMP GROUP AND ROUND AXLE WITH ALIGNMENT FEATURES
A clamp group mounting of a leaf spring to a round axle including alignment features is disclosed, which includes a round axle, a leaf spring and a clamp group connecting the leaf spring to a laterally extending axle. A locator ring is welded to an upper arcuate surface of the axle and is received in a recess in a spring seat. The clamp group includes the spring seat, a top pad and a plurality of fasteners that connect the top pad, leaf spring, and spring seat to the axle. The leaf spring extends longitudinally and at least forward or rearward relative to the axle, and includes a bore that receives a locator element that extends at least upward or downward from the leaf spring.
B60G 11/27 - Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location, or kind of springs having fluid springs only, e.g. hydropneumatic springs wherein the fluid is a gas
A lift axle suspension system incorporating a lift paddle is disclosed. The lift paddle comprising a first pad, a second pad and a rigid support arm securing the first pad and the second pad in fixed relation to one another. The first pad is attached to a lift spring, the second pad is secured to the bottom surface of the main support member/leaf spring. Actuation of the lift spring causes the axle to be lifted out of contact with the ground surface.
B60G 11/27 - Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location, or kind of springs having fluid springs only, e.g. hydropneumatic springs wherein the fluid is a gas
B60G 11/46 - Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location, or kind of springs having springs of different kinds including leaf springs and also fluid springs
A rotary union for a tire inflation system of a heavy-duty vehicle that includes energy harvesting structure for generating electricity to power electronic components of the heavy-duty vehicle. The energy harvesting structure is integrated with and protected by the rotary union. The energy harvesting structure includes components that are attached to respective static and rotatable components of the rotary union that generate electricity for powering the electronic components during rotational movement of the rotatable components relative to the static components during operation of the heavy-duty vehicle. The components of the energy harvesting structure can be entirely removed or separated and sealed from a flow path of pressurized air through the rotary union.
B60C 23/00 - Devices for measuring, signalling, controlling, or distributing tyre pressure or temperature, specially adapted for mounting on vehiclesArrangement of tyre inflating devices on vehicles, e.g. of pumps or of tanksTyre cooling arrangements
H02K 7/18 - Structural association of electric generators with mechanical driving motors, e.g.with turbines
A rotary union for a tire inflation system of a heavy-duty vehicle that includes energy harvesting structure for generating electricity to power electronic components of the heavy-duty vehicle. The energy harvesting structure is integrated with and protected by the rotary union. The energy harvesting structure includes components that are attached to respective static and rotatable components of the rotary union that generate electricity for powering the electronic components during rotational movement of the rotatable components relative to the static components during operation of the heavy-duty vehicle. The components of the energy harvesting structure can be entirely removed or separated and sealed from a flow path of pressurized air through the rotary union.
B60C 23/00 - Devices for measuring, signalling, controlling, or distributing tyre pressure or temperature, specially adapted for mounting on vehiclesArrangement of tyre inflating devices on vehicles, e.g. of pumps or of tanksTyre cooling arrangements
B60C 23/04 - Signalling devices actuated by tyre pressure mounted on the wheel or tyre
B60B 7/00 - Wheel cover discs, rings, or the like, for ornamenting, protecting, or obscuring, wholly or in part, the wheel body, rim, hub, or tyre sidewall
43.
WISHBONE-SHAPED LINKAGE AND MODULAR BUSHING ASSEMBLY AND SUSPENSION SYSTEMS INCORPORATING THE SAME
A vehicle suspension system includes a wishbone-shaped linkage (44) having a base (46), with two limbs (48) extending from the base (46). Each limb (48) is configured to support a laterally and longitudinally oriented bushing assembly (52), which may include a bushing assembly received by a laterally and longitudinally oriented mounting tube associated with a free end of the limb (48). The base (46) includes upper and lower plates (72, 74) wrapping only partially around a laterally extending cross tube (68). A modular bushing assembly including a pair of bushing lobes and a bar pin is partially received within the cross tube, with the bushing lobes being adjustably positioned on the bar pin to allow for adjustment of the conical rate of the bushing assembly. A mounting assembly includes a pair of mount blocks secured to a vehicle axle, with the bar pin being secured with respect to the axle via the mount blocks, thereby associating the linkage to the axle.
A knuckle (200) for a heavy-duty vehicle self-steering axle/suspension system that includes integrally formed structure (270) for mounting components of a drum brake system. The knuckle (200) includes a spindle (264) that is welded directly to the knuckle (200) and a discrete tie rod arm (290) bolted to the knuckle.
F16D 51/22 - Brakes with outwardly-movable braking members co-operating with the inner surface of a drum or the like shaped as brake-shoes pivoted on a fixed or nearly-fixed axis with two brake-shoes extending in opposite directions from their pivots mechanically actuated
F16D 65/22 - Actuating mechanisms for brakesMeans for initiating operation at a predetermined position arranged in or on the brake adapted for pressing members apart
F16D 121/08 - Fluid pressure acting on a membrane-type actuator, e.g. for gas pressure
F16D 125/30 - CamsLevers with cams acting on two or more cam followers, e.g. S-cams
45.
Knuckle for a self-steering axle/suspension system
A knuckle for a heavy-duty vehicle self-steering axle/suspension system that includes integrally formed structure for mounting components of a drum brake system. The knuckle includes a spindle that is welded directly to the knuckle and a discrete tie rod arm bolted to the knuckle.
B60C 23/00 - Devices for measuring, signalling, controlling, or distributing tyre pressure or temperature, specially adapted for mounting on vehiclesArrangement of tyre inflating devices on vehicles, e.g. of pumps or of tanksTyre cooling arrangements
B60T 1/06 - Arrangements of braking elements, i.e. of those parts where braking effect occurs acting by retarding wheels acting otherwise than on tread, e.g. employing rim, drum, disc, or transmission
F16D 51/00 - Brakes with outwardly-movable braking members co-operating with the inner surface of a drum or the like
An axle (110) for heavy-duty vehicles, the axle comprising first and second grooves (160a, 160b) formed about the axle. The first and second grooves include a cross-sectional geometry that forms integrated annular fixturing locations about the axle for selectively mounting a component of a braking system.
An axle for heavy-duty vehicles, the axle comprising first and second grooves formed about the axle. The first and second grooves include a cross-sectional geometry that forms integrated annular fixturing locations about the axle for selectively mounting a component of a braking system.
A radial mounting torque plate for mounting a disk brake component for heavy-duty vehicles, the torque plate comprising an annular portion and a pair of mounting arms. The annular portion is formed with an opening for receiving an axle of the heavy-duty vehicle. The mounting arms are integrally formed with and extend longitudinally outward in opposite directions from the annular portion and have a T-shaped cross-section.
F16D 55/227 - Brakes with substantially-radial braking surfaces pressed together in axial direction, e.g. disc brakes with axially-movable discs or pads pressed against axially-located rotating members by clamping an axially-located rotating disc between movable braking members, e.g. movable brake discs or brake pads with a common actuating member for the braking members the braking members being brake pads in which the common actuating member is moved axially the axial movement being guided by one or more pins by two pins
A dust shield for a disc brake assembly of a heavy-duty vehicle, the dust shield comprising a central portion and a substantially flat portion. The flat portion is integrally formed with and extends radially outward from the central portion. The central portion extends axially inboard of and forms a flange axially-offset from and parallel to the flat portion to act as a stiffening rib to increase the natural frequency of the dust shield.
A radial mounting torque plate for mounting a disk brake component for heavy-duty vehicles, the torque plate comprising an annular portion and a pair of mounting arms. The annular portion is formed with an opening for receiving an axle of the heavy-duty vehicle. The mounting arms are integrally formed with and extend longitudinally outward in opposite directions from the annular portion and have a T-shaped cross-section.
A slack adjuster assembly for use with a heavy-duty vehicle drum brake system, the slack adjuster assembly comprising a slack adjuster, a cam tube assembly, and an interlock assembly. The interlock assembly is disposed on an outboard side of the slack adjuster and interconnects the cam tube assembly with the slack adjuster. A component of the interlock assembly and a component of the cam tube assembly cooperate to form a rotation reference mechanism for indexing of an automatic adjustment mechanism of the slack adjuster. The slack adjuster assembly further comprising an inboard sealing assembly and an outboard sealing assembly engaging respective inboard and outboard sides of the slack adjuster to form respective 360-degree interfaces. The cam tube assembly, interlock assembly, and inboard and outboard sealing assemblies forming a continuous grease pathway between the cam tube assembly and the slack adjuster.
F16D 65/54 - Slack adjusters mechanical self-acting in one direction for adjusting excessive play by means of direct linear adjustment
F16D 65/60 - Slack adjusters mechanical self-acting in one direction for adjusting excessive play for angular adjustment of two concentric parts of the brake control system
F16D 65/22 - Actuating mechanisms for brakesMeans for initiating operation at a predetermined position arranged in or on the brake adapted for pressing members apart
A slack adjuster assembly for use with a heavy-duty vehicle drum brake system, the slack adjuster assembly comprising a slack adjuster, a cam tube assembly, and an interlock assembly. The interlock assembly is disposed on an outboard side of the slack adjuster and interconnects the cam tube assembly with the slack adjuster. A component of the interlock assembly and a component of the cam tube assembly cooperate to form a rotation reference mechanism for indexing of an automatic adjustment mechanism of the slack adjuster. The slack adjuster assembly further comprising an inboard sealing assembly and an outboard sealing assembly engaging respective inboard and outboard sides of the slack adjuster to form respective 360-degree interfaces. The cam tube assembly, interlock assembly, and inboard and outboard sealing assemblies forming a continuous grease pathway between the cam tube assembly and the slack adjuster.
An insert to a mold for a leaf spring comprises a substrate and a hole that extends through the substrate, A post protrudes from the substrate such that the insert, may be coupled to the mold. Further, the post covers the hole on a first end, so the hole is not exposed. On the other end of the hole, a thin overlay that covers the hole. Thus, during a process where resin is added to the mold, no resin enters the hole. The insert, when added to a leaf spring, offers reinforcement on areas where there is high stress. Therefore, holes may be added to a leaf spring at areas of high stress without overly weakening the leaf spring.
F16F 1/371 - Springs made of plastics, e.g. rubberSprings made of material having high internal friction characterised by inserts or auxiliary extension elements, e.g. for rigidification
B29C 70/68 - Shaping composites, i.e. plastics material comprising reinforcements, fillers or preformed parts, e.g. inserts by incorporating or moulding on preformed parts, e.g. inserts or layers
Axle seat assemblies and methods of manufacturing thereof, are provided for attachment to an axle body (15). The axle seat assembly may be comprised of a first piece (42) and a second piece (50). The first piece (42) may have a first wall, a second wall and a first axle seat piece engagement portion providing a first engagement surface. The second piece (50) may have a third wall and a second axle seat piece engagement portion providing a second engagement surface. The first wall and the second wall of the first piece are oriented to engage a front surface of an axle body and the third wall of the second piece is oriented to engage a rear surface (30) of an axle body. The first and second engagement surfaces of the respective first and second pieces of the axle seat assembly are positioned and configured to engage one another to removably and reversibly secure with the use of a fastener the first piece to the second piece to form an axle seat assembly.
A suspension travel control system (1046) for a vehicle suspension is disclosed. The suspension travel control system includes a stop post (834) secured to the vehicle frame and a suspension travel control formation that includes a base (1042) and a body (1048). The stop post (834) is positioned in a space defined by the body (1048). The suspension travel control formation may be secured to the axle, the main support member or incorporated into the axle coupling assembly to provide a rebound and jounce stop as well as longitudinal redundancy in the event of the failure or loss of a longitudinal linkage.
B60G 17/00 - Resilient suspensions having means for adjusting the spring or vibration-damper characteristics, for regulating the distance between a supporting surface and a sprung part of vehicle or for locking suspension during use to meet varying vehicular or surface conditions, e.g. due to speed or load
B60G 11/02 - Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location, or kind of springs having leaf springs only
A shroud for a heavy-duty vehicle component that includes structure enabling the component to be mounted and housed within an interior space of the shroud, such that the component is substantially enclosed and protected when the shroud is mounted on the heavy-duty vehicle frame. In one embodiment, the component is a valve of a pin release/locking system of a moveable subframe. The shroud enables mounting of the component in a location within the interior space of the shroud that provides relatively safe, sufficient clearance for components of a forward mounted down-stop employed in some axle/suspension systems depending from the heavy-duty vehicle frame. The shroud includes structure that enables the shroud to be temporarily attached to a heavy-duty vehicle moveable subframe during shipping at a location on the subframe so that the component and associated structure are within the longitudinal length of main members of the subframe.
A disc brake hub and rotor assembly for a heavy-duty vehicle. The disc brake hub and rotor assembly includes a hub receivable on and rotatable about an axle spindle of a heavy-duty vehicle. A rotor is connectable with the hub for rotation with the hub. The rotor includes a disc segment, a flange mounting segment, and a cylindrical sleeve segment connecting the disc segment and the flange mounting segment. A flange is connectable with the flange mounting segment and separately with the hub. The flange mounting segment of the rotor has an inboard facing surface at least part of which is for engaging head portions of wheel studs. The inboard facing surface is substantially planar and free of wheel stud clearance reliefs. A transition region is located between the flange mounting segment and sleeve segment and is also free of wheel stud clearance reliefs.
A hubcap for a heavy-duty duty vehicle that includes mounting structure that is formed with and cooperates with a side wall of the hubcap to provide a stiff, rigid structure that enables non-cantilevered connection to a wheel hub. The mounting structure can be a plurality of elongated bosses circumferentially spaced about the side wall that are formed with corresponding elongated bolt openings to enable the non-cantilevered attachment to the wheel hub. The elongated bosses cooperate with the hubcap side wall to provide a stiffened or rigid structure between the elongated bolt openings for increased and more uniform clamping force on a sealing gasket between the hubcap and the wheel hub. The hubcap profile provides clearance for removal of an outboard mounted disc brake rotor in heavy-duty vehicle wheel end assemblies that include such rotor configurations. The hubcap may support simple mounting of a hub odometer.
B60B 7/04 - Wheel cover discs, rings, or the like, for ornamenting, protecting, or obscuring, wholly or in part, the wheel body, rim, hub, or tyre sidewall built-up of several main parts
B60B 7/00 - Wheel cover discs, rings, or the like, for ornamenting, protecting, or obscuring, wholly or in part, the wheel body, rim, hub, or tyre sidewall
B60B 7/14 - Fastening arrangements therefor comprising screw-threaded means
G01C 22/00 - Measuring distance traversed on the ground by vehicles, persons, animals or other moving solid bodies, e.g. using odometers or using pedometers
A hubcap for a heavy-duty duty vehicle that includes mounting structure that is formed with and cooperates with a side wall of the hubcap to provide a stiff, rigid structure that enables non-cantilevered connection to a wheel hub. The mounting structure can be a plurality of elongated bosses circumferentially spaced about the side wall that are formed with corresponding elongated bolt openings to enable the non-cantilevered attachment to the wheel hub. The elongated bosses cooperate with the hubcap side wall to provide a stiffened or rigid structure between the elongated bolt openings for increased and more uniform clamping force on a sealing gasket between the hubcap and the wheel hub. The hubcap profile provides clearance for removal of an outboard mounted disc brake rotor in heavy-duty vehicle wheel end assemblies that include such rotor configurations. The hubcap may support simple mounting of a hubodometer.
B60B 7/00 - Wheel cover discs, rings, or the like, for ornamenting, protecting, or obscuring, wholly or in part, the wheel body, rim, hub, or tyre sidewall
B60B 7/14 - Fastening arrangements therefor comprising screw-threaded means
B60B 7/20 - Wheel cover discs, rings, or the like, for ornamenting, protecting, or obscuring, wholly or in part, the wheel body, rim, hub, or tyre sidewall having an element mounted for rotation independently of wheel rotation
B60B 7/04 - Wheel cover discs, rings, or the like, for ornamenting, protecting, or obscuring, wholly or in part, the wheel body, rim, hub, or tyre sidewall built-up of several main parts
A tire inflation system for a heavy-duty vehicle having a source of fluid pressure, a tire and wheel assembly, and a fluid path. The fluid path includes at least one conduit, a first valve, and a flow detection structure. The conduit provides fluid communication from the source of fluid pressure to the tire and wheel assembly. The first valve is disposed along the fluid path. The flow detection structure is disposed along the fluid path and is arranged in parallel to the first valve.
B60C 23/00 - Devices for measuring, signalling, controlling, or distributing tyre pressure or temperature, specially adapted for mounting on vehiclesArrangement of tyre inflating devices on vehicles, e.g. of pumps or of tanksTyre cooling arrangements
A tire inflation system for a heavy-duty vehicle having a source of fluid pressure, a tire and wheel assembly, and a fluid path. The fluid path includes at least one conduit, a first valve, and a flow detection structure. The conduit provides fluid communication from the source of fluid pressure to the tire and wheel assembly. The first valve is disposed along the fluid path. The flow detection structure is disposed along the fluid path and is arranged in parallel to the first valve.
B60C 23/04 - Signalling devices actuated by tyre pressure mounted on the wheel or tyre
F16K 37/00 - Special means in or on valves or other cut-off apparatus for indicating or recording operation thereof, or for enabling an alarm to be given
B60C 23/00 - Devices for measuring, signalling, controlling, or distributing tyre pressure or temperature, specially adapted for mounting on vehiclesArrangement of tyre inflating devices on vehicles, e.g. of pumps or of tanksTyre cooling arrangements
H01H 35/24 - Switches operated by change of fluid pressure, by fluid pressure waves, or by change of fluid flow
A bushing is disclosed for pivotally mounting an end portion of an axle-supporting beam of a vehicle suspension system to a hanger bracket of the vehicle with a pair of wear pads positioned between sides of the end portion of the beam and the hanger bracket, where the pair of wear pads each has a central opening defined by an inner edge. The bushing includes a tubular body having a longitudinal axis, a first end portion, a second end portion and a beam support portion positioned between the first and second end portions. A first resilient wear pad retainer extends radially from the first end portion of the body and a second resilient wear pad retainer extends radially from the second end portion of the body. Each of the first and second wear pad retainers are configured to move into a deflected position when contacted by an inner edge of a wear pad central opening and to rebound back to an original position afterwards as the wear pad is positioned on the first or second end portions of the body so that the wear pad is secured to the bushing.
F16F 1/38 - Springs made of plastics, e.g. rubberSprings made of material having high internal friction with a sleeve of elastic material between a rigid outer sleeve and a rigid inner sleeve or pin
B60G 7/02 - Attaching arms to sprung part of vehicle
An axle/suspension system (200) for a heavy-duty vehicle including a wheel and a sensor. The sensor is operatively connected to an air spring (224) mounted on the axle/suspension system (200) and is capable of detecting a condition of a road or the heavy-duty vehicle. The air spring (224) has a stiffness capable of being altered in response to the sensor and to reduce resonant load variation on the wheel.
B60G 17/015 - Resilient suspensions having means for adjusting the spring or vibration-damper characteristics, for regulating the distance between a supporting surface and a sprung part of vehicle or for locking suspension during use to meet varying vehicular or surface conditions, e.g. due to speed or load the regulating means comprising electric or electronic elements
F16F 9/05 - Springs, vibration-dampers, shock-absorbers, or similarly-constructed movement-dampers using a fluid or the equivalent as damping medium using gas only in a chamber with a flexible wall the flexible wall being of the rolling diaphragm type
An air spring for a heavy-duty vehicle axle/suspension system comprising a piston, a bellows, and an intermediate chamber integrally formed with the bellows. The bellows has an upper portion, a top plate, and a bellows chamber and is connected to the piston by a band, a bead-in-groove connection, and/or a bayonet connection. The upper portion is reinforced to prevent the bellows chamber from increasing in volume. The intermediate chamber has an optimally sized top plate and a support structure and extends from the piston into the bellows chamber. The intermediate top plate is formed with means for restricted fluid communication between the bellows chamber and the intermediate chamber. The means for restricted fluid communication is not obstructed when it contacts the bellows top plate during jounce events. The support structure is optimized in relation to the top plate.
B60G 11/27 - Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location, or kind of springs having fluid springs only, e.g. hydropneumatic springs wherein the fluid is a gas
B60G 13/10 - Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location, or type of vibration-dampers having dampers dissipating energy, e.g. frictionally of fluid type pneumatic
B60G 15/12 - Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location, or type of combined spring and vibration- damper, e.g. telescopic type having fluid spring and fluid damper
F16F 9/04 - Springs, vibration-dampers, shock-absorbers, or similarly-constructed movement-dampers using a fluid or the equivalent as damping medium using gas only in a chamber with a flexible wall
F16F 9/05 - Springs, vibration-dampers, shock-absorbers, or similarly-constructed movement-dampers using a fluid or the equivalent as damping medium using gas only in a chamber with a flexible wall the flexible wall being of the rolling diaphragm type
66.
PROCESS FOR MANUFACTURING A LEAF SPRING AND INSERT FOR LEAF SPRING
An insert to a mold for a leaf spring comprises a substrate and a hole that extends through the substrate, A post protrudes from the substrate such that the insert, may be coupled to the mold. Further, the post covers the hole on a first end, so the hole is not exposed. On the other end of the hole, a thin overlay that covers the hole. Thus, during a process where resm is added to the mold, no resin enters the hole. The insert, when added to a leaf spring, offers reinforcement on areas where there is high stress. Therefore, holes may be added to a leaf spring at areas of high stress without overly weakening the leaf spring.
B29C 45/14 - Injection moulding, i.e. forcing the required volume of moulding material through a nozzle into a closed mouldApparatus therefor incorporating preformed parts or layers, e.g. injection moulding around inserts or for coating articles
B29C 45/16 - Making multilayered or multicoloured articles
B29C 70/72 - Encapsulating inserts having non-encapsulated projections, e.g. extremities or terminal portions of electrical components
B29C 39/10 - Shaping by casting, i.e. introducing the moulding material into a mould or between confining surfaces without significant moulding pressureApparatus therefor for making articles of definite length, i.e. discrete articles incorporating preformed parts or layers, e.g. casting around inserts or for coating articles
B29C 43/18 - Compression moulding, i.e. applying external pressure to flow the moulding materialApparatus therefor of articles of definite length, i.e. discrete articles incorporating preformed parts or layers, e.g. compression moulding around inserts or for coating articles
67.
PILOT OPERATED REGULATOR WITH ADJUSTABLE MINIMUM DELIVERY PRESSURE
A regulator for establishing outlet fluid pressure. The regulator includes a valve body having a fluid pressure inlet in selective fluid communication with a fluid pressure outlet. A pilot pressure inlet is formed in the valve body and in fluid communication with a source of pilot pressure. Valving structure in the valve body establishes outlet fluid pressure as a function of pilot pressure. First adjustable structure within the valve body may establish a minimum outlet fluid pressure threshold without regard to pilot pressure. Second adjustable structure within the valve body may establish outlet fluid pressure offset relative to pilot pressure.
B60C 23/00 - Devices for measuring, signalling, controlling, or distributing tyre pressure or temperature, specially adapted for mounting on vehiclesArrangement of tyre inflating devices on vehicles, e.g. of pumps or of tanksTyre cooling arrangements
G05D 16/06 - Control of fluid pressure without auxiliary power the sensing element being a flexible member yielding to pressure, e.g. diaphragm, bellows, capsule
F16K 31/122 - Operating meansReleasing devices actuated by fluid the fluid acting on a piston
F16K 31/126 - Operating meansReleasing devices actuated by fluid the fluid acting on a diaphragm, bellows, or the like
B60G 11/27 - Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location, or kind of springs having fluid springs only, e.g. hydropneumatic springs wherein the fluid is a gas
A tone ring attachment for a disc brake rotor. The disc brake rotor has a disc portion that includes a plurality of circumferentially-spaced lugs. Each one of the lugs has a groove. A discrete tone ring body has a plurality of bosses. Each one of the bosses is receivable in a respective one of the grooves in the lugs. A dart projection extends from at least one of the bosses. The dart projection engages a respective one of the lugs to inhibit relative axial movement and relative rotational movement in at least one direction between the tone ring and the disc brake rotor. A tab is formed on at least one of the bosses. The tab is engageable with a portion of the lug to inhibit relative rotational movement in a second direction opposite the first direction between the tone ring and disc brake rotor.
B05D 1/04 - Processes for applying liquids or other fluent materials performed by spraying involving the use of an electrostatic field
B05D 3/00 - Pretreatment of surfaces to which liquids or other fluent materials are to be appliedAfter-treatment of applied coatings, e.g. intermediate treating of an applied coating preparatory to subsequent applications of liquids or other fluent materials
C09D 5/10 - Anti-corrosive paints containing metal dust
F16D 65/847 - Features relating to cooling for disc brakes with open cooling system, e.g. cooled by air
B60T 8/00 - Arrangements for adjusting wheel-braking force to meet varying vehicular or ground-surface conditions, e.g. limiting or varying distribution of braking force
B60T 8/17 - Using electrical or electronic regulation means to control braking
B60T 8/171 - Detecting parameters used in the regulationMeasuring values used in the regulation
B60T 8/32 - Arrangements for adjusting wheel-braking force to meet varying vehicular or ground-surface conditions, e.g. limiting or varying distribution of braking force responsive to a speed condition, e.g. acceleration or deceleration
G01P 3/488 - Devices characterised by the use of electric or magnetic means for measuring angular speed by measuring frequency of generated current or voltage of pulse signals delivered by variable reluctance detectors
69.
Pilot operated regulator with adjustable minimum delivery pressure
A regulator for establishing outlet fluid pressure. The regulator includes a valve body having a fluid pressure inlet in selective fluid communication with a fluid pressure outlet. A pilot pressure inlet is formed in the valve body and in fluid communication with a source of pilot pressure. Valving structure in the valve body establishes outlet fluid pressure as a function of pilot pressure. First adjustable structure within the valve body may establish a minimum outlet fluid pressure threshold without regard to pilot pressure. Second adjustable structure within the valve body may establish outlet fluid pressure offset relative to pilot pressure.
B60C 23/00 - Devices for measuring, signalling, controlling, or distributing tyre pressure or temperature, specially adapted for mounting on vehiclesArrangement of tyre inflating devices on vehicles, e.g. of pumps or of tanksTyre cooling arrangements
F16K 17/04 - Safety valvesEqualising valves opening on surplus pressure on one sideSafety valvesEqualising valves closing on insufficient pressure on one side spring-loaded
F16K 17/06 - Safety valvesEqualising valves opening on surplus pressure on one sideSafety valvesEqualising valves closing on insufficient pressure on one side spring-loaded with special arrangements for adjusting the opening pressure
F16K 17/12 - Safety valvesEqualising valves opening on surplus pressure on one sideSafety valvesEqualising valves closing on insufficient pressure on one side weight-loaded
70.
BRAKE COMPONENT MOUNTING STRUCTURE FOR AN AXLE OF A HEAVY-DUTY VEHICLE
A brake component mounting structure (204, 205) for an axle (202) of a heavy-duty vehicle including a mounting plate (250, 251) and a brake component bracket (252, 282). The brake component bracket is attached to and extends from the mounting plate. The mounting plate has at least one continuous edge (264, 284) attached by a continuous weld (CPW1, CPW2) to the axle. A brake component mounting structure for an axle (202) of a heavy- duty vehicle including a first mounting plate (550) having at least one continuous edge (530); a second mounting plate (551) spaced a circumferential distance about said axle from said first mounting plate and having at least one continuous edge (532); and a brake component bracket (552) attached to and extending between the first mounting plate and said second mounting plate; wherein said first and second mounting plates are each attached to the axle by at least one continuous weld (4CWW1, 4CWW2) at an interface between said axle and said at least one continuous edge.
An axle assembly includes a central tube and an axle spindle. The axle spindle is fixed to the central tube. The axle spindle has a tubular first section and a tubular second section extending from the first section. The second section has an outer diameter. The second section has a bearing support surface. A tubular transition section is located between the first section and the second section. An annular shoulder portion is formed in an axial end segment of the tubular transition section adjacent the second section. The shoulder portion has at least one annular profile located in the shoulder portion between the annular shoulder surface and the bearing support surface. The annular profile is defined by a surface with a diameter not less than the outer diameter of the second section. An antilock braking system sensor bracket locator nub is integrally formed in the tubular transition section. An antilock braking system sensor bracket engages the antilock braking system sensor bracket locator nub for proper positioning of an antilock braking system sensor.
B60B 27/02 - Hubs adapted to be rotatably arranged on axle
B23K 20/12 - Non-electric welding by applying impact or other pressure, with or without the application of heat, e.g. cladding or plating the heat being generated by frictionFriction welding
B21D 53/90 - Making other particular articles other parts for vehicles, e.g. cowlings, mudguards axle-housings
A spring seat attachment assembly for use with an axle/suspension system having at least one leaf spring and an axle, said attachment assembly including a band and a spring seat. The band may include a locator structure and is fixed to the axle and extends around a portion of the axle between 180 degrees and 360 degrees. The spring seat receives the leaf spring and is fixed to the band.
B60G 9/00 - Resilient suspensions for a rigid axle or axle housing for two or more wheels
B60G 11/04 - Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location, or kind of springs having leaf springs only arranged substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle
B60G 11/10 - Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location, or kind of springs having leaf springs only characterised by means specially adapted for attaching the spring to axle or sprung part of the vehicle
An axle-to-beam connection for a suspension assembly of an axle/suspension system of a heavy-duty vehicle including an axle, a beam, and a top pad. The beam includes an alignment assembly for aligning the axle with the beam. The top pad includes an integrally-formed bump stop boss and is fixedly attached to the axle and removably attached to the alignment assembly of the beam.
A spring seat attachment assembly for use with an axle/suspension system having at least one leaf spring and an axle, said attachment assembly including a band and a spring seat. The band may include a locator structure and is fixed to the axle and extends around a portion of the axle between 180 degrees and 360 degrees. The spring seat receives the leaf spring and is fixed to the band.
An axle assembly (600) includes a central tube (602) and an axle spindle (604). The axle spindle (604) is fixed to the central tube (602). The axle spindle (604) has a tubular first section (622) and a tubular second section extending from the first section. The second section has an outer diameter. The second section has a bearing support surface (680). A tubular transition section (626) is located between the first section and the second section. An annular shoulder portion (664) is formed in an axial end segment of the tubular transition section adjacent the second section.
An axle-to-beam connection for a suspension assembly of an axle/suspension system of a heavy-duty vehicle including an axle (217), a beam (212), and a top pad (270). The beam (212) includes an alignment assembly (250) for aligning the axle with the beam. The top pad (270) includes an integrally-formed bump stop boss (280) and is fixedly attached to the axle and removably attached to the alignment assembly of the beam.
A damping air spring (324) for a heavy-duty vehicle axle/suspension system includes a bellows (341) and a piston (342). The bellows (341) has a bellows chamber. The piston (342) is operatively connected to the bellows (341) and includes at least two portions forming a continuous piston chamber. One of the portions of the piston is at least partially disposed within the bellows chamber and has a variable volume.
B60G 11/27 - Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location, or kind of springs having fluid springs only, e.g. hydropneumatic springs wherein the fluid is a gas
F16F 9/04 - Springs, vibration-dampers, shock-absorbers, or similarly-constructed movement-dampers using a fluid or the equivalent as damping medium using gas only in a chamber with a flexible wall
F16F 9/05 - Springs, vibration-dampers, shock-absorbers, or similarly-constructed movement-dampers using a fluid or the equivalent as damping medium using gas only in a chamber with a flexible wall the flexible wall being of the rolling diaphragm type
B60G 7/04 - Buffer means for limiting movement of arms
78.
INTEGRATED AIR SPRING FOR AN AXLE/SUSPENSION SYSTEM
An air spring for an axle/suspension system of a heavy-duty vehicle including a bellows, a mounting bracket, and a retention collar. The mounting bracket is integrated into the heavy-duty vehicle axle/suspension system. The bellows has a bellows chamber and is operatively connected to the mounting bracket by the retention collar.
B60G 11/27 - Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location, or kind of springs having fluid springs only, e.g. hydropneumatic springs wherein the fluid is a gas
F16F 5/00 - Liquid springs in which the liquid works as a spring by compression, e.g. combined with throttling actionCombinations of devices including liquid springs
B60G 11/28 - Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location, or kind of springs having fluid springs only, e.g. hydropneumatic springs characterised by means specially adapted for attaching the spring to axle or sprung part of the vehicle
F16F 9/05 - Springs, vibration-dampers, shock-absorbers, or similarly-constructed movement-dampers using a fluid or the equivalent as damping medium using gas only in a chamber with a flexible wall the flexible wall being of the rolling diaphragm type
A fluid flow regulator comprises a body, an actuatable switch, and valve structure. The valve structure is disposed within the body and has at least a portion movable between an actuating position and a non-actuating position. The actuating position actuates the switch. The non-actuating position does not actuate the switch.
B60C 23/02 - Signalling devices actuated by tyre pressure
B60C 23/04 - Signalling devices actuated by tyre pressure mounted on the wheel or tyre
H01H 35/38 - Switches operated by change of fluid pressure, by fluid pressure waves, or by change of fluid flow actuated by piston and cylinder
F16K 1/12 - Lift valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closure members having at least a component of their opening and closing motion perpendicular to the closing faces with streamlined valve member around which the fluid flows when the valve is opened
B60C 23/00 - Devices for measuring, signalling, controlling, or distributing tyre pressure or temperature, specially adapted for mounting on vehiclesArrangement of tyre inflating devices on vehicles, e.g. of pumps or of tanksTyre cooling arrangements
F16K 37/00 - Special means in or on valves or other cut-off apparatus for indicating or recording operation thereof, or for enabling an alarm to be given
80.
DAMPING AIR SPRING WITH SUBSTANTIALLY FIXED VOLUME
An air spring (324) with damping characteristics for a suspension assembly of a heavy-duty vehicle includes a bellows chamber (398), a piston chamber (399), an intermediate chamber (330), and a first (359) and second (358) means for providing restricted fluid communication. The intermediate chamber (330) is disposed at least partially within the bellows chamber (398) and operatively connected to the bellows chamber (398) and the piston chamber (399). The first means (359) for providing restricted fluid communication is located between the bellows chamber and the intermediate chamber. The second means (358) for providing restricted fluid communication is located between the piston chamber and the intermediate chamber. The first and second means for providing restricted fluid communication provide damping characteristics to the air spring during operation of the heavy-duty vehicle.
B60G 11/27 - Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location, or kind of springs having fluid springs only, e.g. hydropneumatic springs wherein the fluid is a gas
B60G 15/12 - Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location, or type of combined spring and vibration- damper, e.g. telescopic type having fluid spring and fluid damper
B60G 13/10 - Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location, or type of vibration-dampers having dampers dissipating energy, e.g. frictionally of fluid type pneumatic
F16F 9/04 - Springs, vibration-dampers, shock-absorbers, or similarly-constructed movement-dampers using a fluid or the equivalent as damping medium using gas only in a chamber with a flexible wall
F16F 9/05 - Springs, vibration-dampers, shock-absorbers, or similarly-constructed movement-dampers using a fluid or the equivalent as damping medium using gas only in a chamber with a flexible wall the flexible wall being of the rolling diaphragm type
81.
PNEUMATIC CONTROL SYSTEM FOR VEHICLES AND OTHER LOADED STRUCTURES
A load isolation device, or suspension assembly of a vehicle, including a damping air spring and a pneumatic control system. The damping air spring is operatively connected to a structure to be isolated and extends from a base operatively connected to or operatively disposed on a source of vibration. The pneumatic control system includes a height control valve connected to the damping air spring and is capable of being actuated between a first operating state and a second operating state. The height control valve enables the damping air spring to maintain the structure at a primary height in the first operating state and at a secondary height different from the primary height in the second operating state.
B60G 9/00 - Resilient suspensions for a rigid axle or axle housing for two or more wheels
B60G 13/10 - Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location, or type of vibration-dampers having dampers dissipating energy, e.g. frictionally of fluid type pneumatic
B60G 15/12 - Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location, or type of combined spring and vibration- damper, e.g. telescopic type having fluid spring and fluid damper
F16F 9/02 - Springs, vibration-dampers, shock-absorbers, or similarly-constructed movement-dampers using a fluid or the equivalent as damping medium using gas only
F16F 9/04 - Springs, vibration-dampers, shock-absorbers, or similarly-constructed movement-dampers using a fluid or the equivalent as damping medium using gas only in a chamber with a flexible wall
F16F 9/05 - Springs, vibration-dampers, shock-absorbers, or similarly-constructed movement-dampers using a fluid or the equivalent as damping medium using gas only in a chamber with a flexible wall the flexible wall being of the rolling diaphragm type
A suspension travel control system (1046) for a vehicle suspension is disclosed. The suspension travel control system includes a stop post (834) secured to the vehicle frame and a suspension travel control formation that includes a base (1042) and a body (1048). The stop post (834) is positioned in a space defined by the body (1048). The suspension travel control formation may be secured to the axle, the main support member or incorporated into the axle coupling assembly to provide a rebound and jounce stop as well as longitudinal redundancy in the event of the failure or loss of a longitudinal linkage.
An axle/suspension system for a heavy-duty vehicle includes a suspension assembly, an axle, and a damping means. The suspension assembly is operatively connected to the heavy-duty vehicle. The axle is operatively connected to the suspension assembly. The damping means is operatively connected to and extends between the suspension assembly and the heavy-duty vehicle. The axle/suspension system has a motion ratio of between about 1.4 to about 1.7. A method for optimizing damping of an axle/suspension system of a heavy-duty vehicle includes the steps of: calculating a curve representing a damping energy relating to load on a damping air spring; calculating a curve representing a damping energy relating to air flow velocity through at least one opening of the air spring; calculating an optimized motion ratio by determining an intersection of the curves; altering the geometry of the axle/suspension system to provide the axle/suspension system with the optimized motion ratio.
B60G 9/02 - Resilient suspensions for a rigid axle or axle housing for two or more wheels the axle or housing being pivotally mounted on the vehicle
B60G 11/27 - Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location, or kind of springs having fluid springs only, e.g. hydropneumatic springs wherein the fluid is a gas
B60G 13/00 - Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location, or type of vibration-dampers
84.
HEAVY-DUTY VEHICLE AXLE/SUSPENSION SYSTEM WITH OPTIMIZED DAMPING
An axle/suspension system for a heavy-duty vehicle includes a suspension assembly, an axle, and a damping means. The suspension assembly is operatively connected to the heavy-duty vehicle. The axle is operatively connected to the suspension assembly. The damping means is operatively connected to and extends between the suspension assembly and the heavy-duty vehicle. The axle/suspension system has a motion ratio of between about 1.4 to about 1.7. A method for optimizing damping of an axle/suspension system of a heavy-duty vehicle includes the steps of: calculating a curve representing a damping energy relating to load on a damping air spring; calculating a curve representing a damping energy relating to air flow velocity through at least one opening of the air spring; calculating an optimized motion ratio by determining an intersection of the curves; altering the geometry of the axle/suspension system to provide the axle/suspension system with the optimized motion ratio.
B60G 9/00 - Resilient suspensions for a rigid axle or axle housing for two or more wheels
B60G 13/10 - Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location, or type of vibration-dampers having dampers dissipating energy, e.g. frictionally of fluid type pneumatic
B60G 15/12 - Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location, or type of combined spring and vibration- damper, e.g. telescopic type having fluid spring and fluid damper
F16F 9/05 - Springs, vibration-dampers, shock-absorbers, or similarly-constructed movement-dampers using a fluid or the equivalent as damping medium using gas only in a chamber with a flexible wall the flexible wall being of the rolling diaphragm type
F16F 9/04 - Springs, vibration-dampers, shock-absorbers, or similarly-constructed movement-dampers using a fluid or the equivalent as damping medium using gas only in a chamber with a flexible wall
A joint is formed between first and second workpieces. The first workpiece defines a cavity, while the second workpiece includes a shear member. The shear member is at least partially inserted into the cavity to secure the first workpiece to the second workpiece. One of the workpieces has a lower hardness and/or shear strength than the other workpiece and includes at least one shear tab with a base portion and an end portion. In inserting the shear member into the cavity, the end portion of the shear tab is broken away from the base portion, leaving the base portion to extend between the cavity and the shear member, thereby securing the first workpiece to the second workpiece.
B23Q 3/08 - Work-clamping means other than mechanically-actuated
F16B 17/00 - Fastening means without screw-thread for connecting constructional elements or machine parts by a part of or on one member entering a hole in the other
B62D 21/02 - Understructures, i.e. chassis frame on which a vehicle body may be mounted comprising longitudinally or transversely arranged frame members
B62D 21/09 - Means for mounting load bearing surfaces
F16B 7/18 - Connections of rods or tubes, e.g. of non-circular section, mutually, including resilient connections using screw-thread elements
F16B 43/00 - Washers or equivalent devicesOther devices for supporting bolt-heads or nuts
F16B 41/00 - Measures against loss of bolts, nuts, or pinsMeasures against unauthorised operation of bolts, nuts, or pins
An air spring for use in an axle/suspension system of a heavy-duty vehicle includes a bellows and a piston. The bellows includes a bellows chamber. The piston includes a top portion, a bottom portion and a support stud. The support stud includes a first end and a second end, the first end of the support stud is secured to the top portion or the bottom portion of the piston, the support stud extending between the top portion and the bottom portion of the piston..
B60G 11/27 - Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location, or kind of springs having fluid springs only, e.g. hydropneumatic springs wherein the fluid is a gas
F16F 9/05 - Springs, vibration-dampers, shock-absorbers, or similarly-constructed movement-dampers using a fluid or the equivalent as damping medium using gas only in a chamber with a flexible wall the flexible wall being of the rolling diaphragm type
A bar pin bushing assembly (400) including a bar pin (220) having at least one end with at least one bore (221) to receive a fastener, the at least one bore (221) extending through the at least one end, the bar pin (220) having a central portion (26) having a diameter that is greater than a width or diameter of the at least one end of the bar pin (220), a compressible rubber section (242) positioned around the central portion of the bar pin (220), the compressible rubber section (242) further extending around downwardly tapering surfaces adjacent the central portion of the bar pin (220), an outer metal shell (232) mold bonded to the compressible rubber section (242), a first disc insert (260a) positioned over a first end of the outer metal shell (232), a second disc insert (260b) positioned over a second end of the outer metal shell (232), and a tubular outer metal wall (250) positioned over the outer metal shell (232), the first disc insert (260a), and the second disc insert (260b).
Tone ring mounting structure (110;210;215;310) for an antilock braking system comprising a wheel end assembly rotatable component (121;221;322) having at least a first end surface (182;282;344;345) and a first engagement mechanism (180;286;281;342) extending radially and non-cantilevered from the rotatable component (121;221;322), and a tone ring (124;224;324) having a second end surface 152;252;364;365) and a second engagement mechanism (162;262;263;362) extending radially from the tone ring (124;224;324). Connecting engagement of the first engagement mechanism (180;286;281;342) of the wheel end assembly rotatable component (121;221;322) and the second engagement mechanism (162;262;263;362) of the tone ring (124;224;324) affects movement of the second end surface (152;252;364;365) in a direction toward the first end surface (182;282;344;345). The wheel end assembly rotatable component (121;221;322) can be either a disc brake rotor (121;221) or a hub (322). The first engagement mechanism (180;286;342) and the second engagement mechanism (162;262;362) can be engageable threads. The first engagement mechanism can include lugs (280;280A) formed on the wheel end assembly rotatable component (221) and the second engagement mechanism (262;263) threads or wedge ramps engageable with the lugs (280;280A). The wheel end assembly rotatable component (121;221;322) and the tone ring (124;224;324) may be secured by means of a cross pin (190;290;390). A corrosion resistant coating or sealer can be applied to components of the tone ring mounting structure (110;210;215;310).
B60T 8/32 - Arrangements for adjusting wheel-braking force to meet varying vehicular or ground-surface conditions, e.g. limiting or varying distribution of braking force responsive to a speed condition, e.g. acceleration or deceleration
Tone ring mounting structure for an antilock braking system comprising a wheel end assembly rotatable component having at least a first end surface and a first engagement mechanism extending radially and non-cantilevered from the rotatable component, and a tone ring having a second end surface and a second engagement mechanism extending radially from the tone ring. Connecting engagement of the first engagement mechanism of the wheel end assembly rotatable component and the second engagement mechanism of the tone ring affects movement of the second end surface in a direction toward the first end surface. The first engagement mechanism and the second engagement mechanism can be engageable threads. The first engagement mechanism can include lugs formed on the wheel end assembly rotatable component and the second engagement mechanism threads or wedge ramps engageable with the lugs. A corrosion resistant coating can be applied to components of the tone ring mounting structure.
B60T 8/32 - Arrangements for adjusting wheel-braking force to meet varying vehicular or ground-surface conditions, e.g. limiting or varying distribution of braking force responsive to a speed condition, e.g. acceleration or deceleration
B60T 17/22 - Devices for monitoring or checking brake systemsSignal devices
G01D 5/14 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing memberMeans for converting the output of a sensing member to another variable where the form or nature of the sensing member does not constrain the means for convertingTransducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using electric or magnetic means influencing the magnitude of a current or voltage
G01P 3/488 - Devices characterised by the use of electric or magnetic means for measuring angular speed by measuring frequency of generated current or voltage of pulse signals delivered by variable reluctance detectors
A bushing is disclosed for pivotally mounting an end portion of an axle -supporting beam of a vehicle suspension system to a hanger bracket of the vehicle with a pair of wear pads positioned between sides of the end portion of the beam and the hanger bracket, where the pair of wear pads each has a central opening defined by an inner edge. The bushing includes a tubular body having a longitudinal axis, a first end portion, a second end portion and a beam support portion positioned between the first and second end portions. A first resilient wear pad retainer extends radially from the first end portion of the body and a second resilient wear pad retainer extends radially from the second end portion of the body. Each of the first and second wear pad retainers are configured to move into a deflected position when contacted by an inner edge of a wear pad central opening and to rebound back to an original position afterwards as the wear pad is positioned on the first or second end portions of the body so that the wear pad is secured to the bushing.
B60G 7/02 - Attaching arms to sprung part of vehicle
F16F 1/38 - Springs made of plastics, e.g. rubberSprings made of material having high internal friction with a sleeve of elastic material between a rigid outer sleeve and a rigid inner sleeve or pin
Axle seat assemblies and methods of manufacturing thereof, are provided for attachment to an axle body (15). The axle seat assembly may be comprised of a first piece (42) and a second piece (50). The first piece (42) may have a first wall, a second wall and a first axle seat piece engagement portion providing a first engagement surface. The second piece (50) may have a third wall and a second axle seat piece engagement portion providing a second engagement surface. The first wall and the second wall of the first piece are oriented to engage a front surface of an axle body and the third wall of the second piece is oriented to engage a rear surface (30) of an axle body. The first and second engagement surfaces of the respective first and second pieces of the axle seat assembly are positioned and configured to engage one another to removably and reversibly secure with the use of a fastener the first piece to the second piece to form an axle seat assembly.
A mechanical down stop for heavy-duty vehicle axle/suspension systems which includes an L-shaped bracket that is rigidly/stiffly attached to the vehicle frame at one end, and is attached to a flexible portion of the mechanical down stop at the other end. The flexible portion is attached to a beam of the axle/suspension system. The L-shaped bracket is formed of an elastically deformable material and includes a bend that enables the bracket to act as a force reacting spring. The L-shaped bracket and the flexible portion of the mechanical down stop limit downward movement of the beam and react the downward force of the beam during downward movement of the beam.
A mechanical down-stop for heavy-duty vehicle axle/suspension systems which includes an angled bracket that is rigidly/stiffly attached to the vehicle frame at one end, and is attached to a flexible portion of the mechanical down-stop at its other end. The flexible portion is attached to a beam of the axle/suspension system. The angled bracket is formed of an elastically deformable material and includes a bend that enables the bracket to act as a spring. The angled bracket and the flexible portion limit downward movement and react the downward force of the beam.
B60G 9/00 - Resilient suspensions for a rigid axle or axle housing for two or more wheels
B60G 3/06 - Resilient suspensions for a single wheel with a single pivoted arm the arm being essentially transverse to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle the arm being rigid
A bushing for use in an axle/suspension system of a heavy-duty vehicle. A beam supports an axle for pivotal movement with a hanger of the heavy-duty vehicle at a pivot connection. A bumper is fixed to the beam and contacts an engagement member of the heavy-duty vehicle to limit the relative pivotal movement of the beam and axle in one direction. A force is applied to the pivot connection in a force application direction that is angularly spaced from horizontal and vertical planes. The pivot connection includes a bushing to connect the beam and the hanger. The bushing includes an elastomeric bushing body with at least one void for decreasing rigidity of the bushing body in a substantially vertical direction. The one void is located in the bushing body angularly spaced from the force application direction. The bushing body is substantially solid along the force application direction.
B60G 9/00 - Resilient suspensions for a rigid axle or axle housing for two or more wheels
B60G 11/62 - Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location, or kind of springs having springs of different kinds not including leaf springs having both rubber springs and fluid springs
F16F 1/387 - Springs made of plastics, e.g. rubberSprings made of material having high internal friction with a sleeve of elastic material between a rigid outer sleeve and a rigid inner sleeve or pin comprising means for modifying the rigidity in particular directions
F16F 1/38 - Springs made of plastics, e.g. rubberSprings made of material having high internal friction with a sleeve of elastic material between a rigid outer sleeve and a rigid inner sleeve or pin
An air actuated brake system for use on a heavy-duty vehicle having a frame. Each of a first pair of air actuated brake assemblies is mounted to a first axle supported by the frame. Each of a second pair of air actuated brake assemblies is mounted to a second axle supported by the frame. A source of pressurized air is provided. Valve structure is in fluid communication with the source of pressurized air. The valve structure is located substantially central relative to each of the air actuated brake assemblies. Conduits of substantially equal length and/or volume fluidly connect the valve structure with the first pair of air actuated brake assemblies and with the second pair of air actuated brake assemblies to actuate the air actuated brake assemblies at substantially the same time.
A suspension assembly for a heavy-duty vehicle axle/suspension system that includes a geometry that enables components of a brake system to be mounted above and be protected by a beam (116) of the suspension assembly. In an embodiment of the suspension assembly, the beam (116) includes a recessed area (152) that allows a brake actuator to be positioned at least partially within or disposed adjacent the recessed area (152).
A bushing for use in an axle/suspension system of a heavy-duty vehicle. A beam supports an axle for pivotal movement with a hanger of the heavy-duty vehicle at a pivot connection. A bumper is fixed to the beam and contacts an engagement member of the heavy-duty vehicle to limit the relative pivotal movement of the beam and axle in one direction. A force is applied to the pivot connection in a force application direction that is angularly spaced from horizontal and vertical planes. The pivot connection includes a bushing to connect the beam and the hanger. The bushing includes an elastomeric bushing body with at least one void for decreasing rigidity of the bushing body in a substantially vertical direction. The one void is located in the bushing body angularly spaced from the force application direction. The bushing body is substantially solid along the force application direction.
F16F 1/387 - Springs made of plastics, e.g. rubberSprings made of material having high internal friction with a sleeve of elastic material between a rigid outer sleeve and a rigid inner sleeve or pin comprising means for modifying the rigidity in particular directions
B60G 11/62 - Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location, or kind of springs having springs of different kinds not including leaf springs having both rubber springs and fluid springs
B60G 3/14 - Resilient suspensions for a single wheel with a single pivoted arm the arm being essentially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle the arm being rigid
B60G 9/00 - Resilient suspensions for a rigid axle or axle housing for two or more wheels
An axle/suspension assembly for a heavy-duty vehicle supported by a frame and a hanger includes a beam, an axle, and a bumper. The axle is supported by a first portion of the beam for pivotal movement of the beam relative to the hanger at a pivot joint. The first portion of the beam is located on a first side of the pivot joint. The bumper is fixed to at least one of the frame, the hanger, and a second portion of the beam. The second portion of the beam is located on an opposite second side of the pivot joint. The bumper includes a portion for contacting structure of at least another of the frame, the hanger, and the beam to limit pivotal movement of the axle in one direction.
B60G 7/04 - Buffer means for limiting movement of arms
B60G 9/00 - Resilient suspensions for a rigid axle or axle housing for two or more wheels
B60G 11/22 - Resilient suspensions characterised by arrangement, location, or kind of springs having rubber springs only
B60G 3/14 - Resilient suspensions for a single wheel with a single pivoted arm the arm being essentially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle the arm being rigid
An axle/suspension assembly (220) for a heavy-duty vehicle supported by a frame (222) and a hanger (242) includes a beam (244), an axle (268), and a bumper (282). The axle (268) is supported by a first portion of the beam (244) for pivotal movement of the beam relative to the hanger (244) at a pivot joint (264). The first portion of the beam is located on a first side of the pivot joint. The bumper is fixed to at least one of the frame, the hanger, and a second portion of the beam. The second portion of the beam is located on an opposite second side of the pivot joint. The bumper (282) includes a portion for contacting structure of at least another of the frame, the hanger, and the beam to limit pivotal movement of the axle in one direction.
