Hydraulic suspension hitch system
US8683720B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 27, 2011 |
| Grant date | Apr 1, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 27, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60G2400/97
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
The present disclosure provides a hitch suspension system that reduces a transfer of energy (e.g., provides a smoother ride) between two bodies hitched together, such as between a towing vehicle and a towed vehicle/trailer. In an embodiment, the suspension system includes a hydraulic cylinder with an extendable rod in fluid communication with a fluid pump. A control valve is fluidly coupled between the hydraulic cylinder and the fluid pump and is configured to adjust an extension length of the rod. Additionally, a variable orifice that adjusts resistance to extension and retraction of the rod is fluidly coupled between the hydraulic cylinder and the control valve. A first fixed restrictive element is fluidly coupled in series with the variable orifice to dissipate energy ad the rod extends and a second fixed restrictive element is fluidly coupled in series with the variable orifice to dissipate energy as the rod retracts.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.