Steerable tag axle
US5597174A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 2, 1995 |
| Grant date | Jan 28, 1997 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 2, 2015 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60G7/02
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Steerable tag axle assemblies include an axle mounting lever carrying a wheel on a stub axle and either a kingpin pivot or a spherical bearing pivot for laterally turning the wheel. The lever pivots between a stowed position and a deployed position where lateral forces from the ground urge the wheel to follow the vehicle. In one embodiment, a kingpin pivot connects the stub axle to the lever and a tie rod maintains alignment of the pair of stub axles. In another embodiment, a kingpin pivot connects the lever to a pivoting shaft attached to the vehicle. The shaft turns as the lever moves between the deployed and stowed positions, and the lever pivots laterally at the kingpin pivot to turn the wheels. In another embodiment, a spherical bearing is carried by a spherical bearing mount securely attached to the vehicle. The bearing engages the lever in a bearing cavity, such that the lever pivots laterally and between the stowed and deployed positions on the bearing. Lateral movement of the wheel is limited in each embodiment.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.