Control for self steering suspension assembly
US5018756A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 23, 1989 |
| Grant date | May 28, 1991 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 23, 2009 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60G2202/21
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A suspension system incorporating upper and lower torque rods pivotally connected between a hanger and an axle seat. The upper torque rod is preferably a hydraulic cylinder and piston assembly, the length of which is adjustable between extended and retracted conditions. In the extended condition, the upper torque rod pivots the axle to a forward pitch at which it is self-steering when the vehicle is driven forward. In the retracted condition, the upper torque rod pivots the axle to a negative pitch condition in which it is self-steering when the vehicle is operated in reverse. The hydraulic cylinder and piston assembly can be operated by the driver such as when the gears are shifted between forward and reverse. A lift spring is mounted between a plate on the hanger and a plate on the lower torque rod. The lift spring is positioned within a pocket defined on the hanger. The hanger is integral with a longitudinal plate and an upper spring mounting plate, and a shock absorber bracket is integral with the longitudinal plate.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.