Dual rate leaf spring construction
US4750718A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 17, 1987 |
| Grant date | Jun 14, 1988 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 17, 2007 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60G11/40
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A dual rate leaf spring construction including a main leaf spring, preferably formed of fiber reinforced resin, and having a central section adapted to be connected to an axle of a vehicle and having a pair of ends to be connected to the frame of the vehicle. A secondary leaf spring, having a substantially shorter length than the main leaf spring, is secured beneath and parallel to the main leaf spring, and an elastomeric pad is mounted on each end of the secondary spring. The pads have upwardly facing rounded heads that are spaced out of contact with the lower surface of the main spring under normal load conditions. Under heavy load conditions, the main spring will deflect downwardly into contact with the pads to thereby enable the secondary spring to carry a portion of the load.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.