Spacer apparatus for suspension beam bushing assemblies
US7207583B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 16, 2002 |
| Grant date | Apr 24, 2007 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 16, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60G2204/4402
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A spacer apparatus for insulating a beam bushing assembly of an axle/suspension system from direct metal-to-metal contact with the vehicle frame hanger on which the assembly is pivotally mounted. In one embodiment, an integrally-formed one-piece apparatus includes a spacer disk portion and collar portions, whereby the collars provide a complementary fit of the spacer apparatus on the bushing assembly mounting tube, and generally prevents or minimizes relative movement between the spacer disk and bushing assembly. In other embodiments, one or more load dissipation structures mounted on or forming a part of the beam and/or its bushing assembly prevent substantially non-planar surfaces of the assembly from contacting a spacer disk by increasing the bearing area of those surfaces which contact the disk. These apparatus generally eliminate excessive wear or damage to the spacer disk and possible resulting damage to the axle/suspension system.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.