Clutched stabilizer bar

US6811166B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Meritor Light Vehicle Technology, LLC · US

Inventors

• Robert P. Carlstedt · Rochester Hills, US
• James B. Chamberlin · Charlotte, US
• Ragnar Ledesma · Sterling Heights, US
• Nancy Saxon · Oakland Charter Township, US
• Dennis A. Kramer · Troy, US
• Doyle Downey · Beverly Hills, US
• Joseph Cubalchini · McLeansboro, US
• Monte Williams · Royal Oak, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Dec 18, 2001
• Grant date: Nov 2, 2004
• Expiry date: Jan 23, 2022

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B60G21/0556
• WIPO field: Transport
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A clutch device for use with a vehicle suspension system to vary the stiffness of a stabilizer bar. A plurality of dampers connected to the clutch body alternate with a plurality of dampers connected to the stabilizer bar. The dampers are coated with a friction material and surrounded by a fluid. When a load is applied on the walls of clutch body, the friction material comes into contact, dampening the rotation action of the stabilizer bar. A sensor senses the parameters of the ride and generates a signal based on these parameters. The signal activates a power source controller which applies the load to the walls.