Driven lift axles and associated systems and methods
US11820188B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 8, 2022 |
| Grant date | Nov 21, 2023 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 8, 2042 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60K2007/0092
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Driven lift axles and associated systems and components are provided for use on heavy duty trucks, trailers, and/or other vehicles. Driven lift axle systems may include one or more motors mounted to the lift axle to provide torque to drive one or more wheels of the lift axle. Various mounting configurations of such motors are possible, such as arranging a motor on the axle to provide torque at a conventional driveshaft input by interfacing with a differential drive gear, positioning a motor at each of the wheel ends of the axle to provide torque directly to the wheels, etc. Each wheel can be driven by a separate motor, allowing for independent control of the torque applied to each wheel. Lift axles described herein can be suitable for use with various motors capable of applying torque to the axle and/or wheels, such as electric motors, hydraulic motors, internal combustion engines, etc.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.