Patent · US Expired

Vehicle suspension

US3966223A · kind A · utility

59Cited by
2References
10Claims
0Family size

Inventor

Key dates

Filing dateNov 8, 1974
Grant dateJun 29, 1976
Priority date
Expiry dateNov 8, 1994

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
  • CPC primaryY10S188/01
  • WIPO fieldTransport
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

The invention can take the form of different suspension systems which provide essentially constant force (zero spring rate) individual wheel support of a vehicle during normal individual wheel travel. Zero spring rate is achieved by supplying essentially constant air pressure to air bag suspension elements. In one system regulation of suspension height and air pressure is achieved by open bottom air bags utilizing the ground effects principle. A second system utilizes closed air bags operating against opposing governing springs. Constant air pressure is supplied from a controlled reservoir. Auxiliary force mechanisms are provided for total system support during high vertical, longitudinal and angular vehicle accelerations.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.