Modular suspension beam

Details Modular suspension beam Modular suspension beam

2000-04-20

2001-10-16

Culbreth, Eric (Department: 3611)

Land vehicles

Wheeled

Running gear

C280S124100, C280S124157

Reexamination Certificate

active

06302418

ABSTRACT:

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to a suspension beam which extends along the length of a vehicle, and which has end portions supporting elements such as air bags, shock absorbers, etc. The suspension beam is modular, with end portions that are removable and are tailored to the individual vehicle design. A central beam portion can then be uniform across several vehicles.
Suspension beams are utilized in heavy vehicle suspensions. In particular, a suspension beam is incorporated into a so-called “H” style vehicle suspension. In such suspensions, a beam is placed at each of the lateral sides of the vehicle, and extends generally along the length of a wheel. A cross member extends between the two suspension beams. Ends of each suspension beam are connected to suspension elements such as an air bag, a shock absorber, etc.
The orientation, size and relative location of the suspension elements at the two ends of the suspension beam is unique for most vehicle designs.
Thus, there are generally distinct suspension beams designed and manufactured for each of the chassises utilized by each vehicle manufacturer. Thus, a relatively high number of suspension beams must be designed and manufactured. Each suspension beam requires individual design time and tooling. The result is that each suspension beam is relatively expensive.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In a disclosed embodiment of this invention, a number of suspension beams are designed each having a uniform central beam portion. The end portions, which vary across vehicle or chassis designs, are removable. Thus, the end portions can be tailored to the particular needs of the particular vehicle, and attached to a uniform central beam. The design and tooling costs for each suspension beam can thus be spread over several configurations.
The end portions, even though uniquely designed for each vehicle, require much less design and tooling costs when compared to the cost of each separate one-piece suspension beam.
In disclosed embodiments of this invention, the end portions are bolted to the central beam portion, and are thus easily attached. However, other attachment modes may be utilized. Moreover, a two level attachment is used to better support the weight.
These and other features of the present invention can be best understood from the following specification and drawings, the following of which is a brief description.


REFERENCES:
patent: 3055448 (1962-09-01), Fagel
patent: 5005849 (1991-04-01), Gandiglio et al.
patent: 5433287 (1995-07-01), Szalai et al.
patent: 1057469 (1959-05-01), None

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