Steering actuated shock system for vehicles

Details Steering actuated shock system for vehicles Steering actuated shock system for vehicles

1999-09-07

2001-02-20

Dickson, Paul N. (Department: 3618)

Land vehicles

Suspension modification enacted during travel

Including condition or parameter adjustment occurring at...

C280S005507, C280S124106, C280S124160

Reexamination Certificate

active

06189897

ABSTRACT:

FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention substantially relates to devices that are used to reduce accidental rollover of vehicles. But more particularly relates to a shock system adapter apparatus which is automatically actuated by the steering system and increases dampening compression on the outside shock and decreases dampening compression on the inside shock when the vehicle is turning.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
In the past, many types of shock systems have been taught for use on vehicles. However, such shock systems typically function independently from the steering system and they do not specifically reduce accidental tipping of the vehicle while turning, as taught by the present invention.
For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,348,112 teaches a “MOTORCYCLE HEIGHT ADJUSTER” which is hydraulically actuated and includes a manually actuated height adjustment knob. This type of shock system allows the rider to adjust the height of the motorcycle according to their individual preference.
Another example of a prior art shock system is disclosed within U.S. Pat. No. 4,961,481 wherein taught is a “HYDRAULIC ACTUATION SYSTEM”. This system is functional for its intended use which is to allow a vehicle occupant to manually control or “set” the stiffness of the vehicle shock absorbers, similar to the previous reference.
Other examples of prior art shock systems, or the like are taught within U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,546,959, 5,823,305, and 5,725,239. However, none of the references provide an adapter apparatus which is compatible with a pre-existing shock system, nor do they include unique metering valves, nor novel simple mechanical linkage, as taught by the present invention.
The applicants therefore contend that there is a need for a shock system adapter apparatus that is attachable and automatically activated by the existing vehicle steering system. And when the vehicle is turned, the dampening compression of the outside shock is increased while the dampening compression of the inside shock is decreased. Thus, altering the normal center of gravity of the vehicle, and reducing the chance of body roll while turning.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a steering actuated shock system apparatus for vehicles that may either be installed at the point of manufacture, or the system can easily be retrofitted onto the existing vehicle shock system after market.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide a steering actuated shock system for vehicles that is adjustable by the user, in a manner which allows the user to adjust the shock dampening compression according to their individual needs.
Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a steering actuated shock system for vehicles that is attachable to the pre-existing steering arm mechanism on the vehicle, and is automatically actuated when the vehicle is turned.
Still another object of the present invention is to provide a steering actuated shock system for vehicles which is of very simple construction and economical to manufacture and install.
Also another object of the present invention is to provide a steering actuated shock system which may be manufactured and sold as an accessory item for vehicles. For example, such a system is especially useful as an accessory item for snowmobiles, quads, three-wheeled vehicles, race vehicles, four-wheel drive vehicles, pickup trucks, or the like.
Yet a further object of the present invention is to provide a steering actuated shock system for vehicles that enhances the overall performance of the vehicle.
Still a further object of the present invention is to provide a steering actuated shock system for vehicles that may include instructions and the mechanical linkage may be color-coded for easy installation.
Other objects and advantages will be seen when taken into consideration with the following specification and drawings.


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patent: 5823305 (1998-10-01), Richardson et al.
patent: 6102418 (2000-08-01), Runkel

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