Land vehicles – Wheeled – Running gear
Reexamination Certificate
2000-05-25
2002-03-19
Swann, J. J. (Department: 3611)
Land vehicles
Wheeled
Running gear
C280S124137, C280S124167, C280S124149
Reexamination Certificate
active
06357771
ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a torsion bar assembly for a vehicle suspension system, and more particularly to an anchor arm adjuster assembly that provides a dual spring rate to the torsion bar.
Vehicles are commonly equipped with independent suspension systems which can include a vibration or shock absorbing device for absorbing road shock and other vibrations while providing a smooth and comfortable ride for the vehicle occupants. One type of shock absorbing system includes a torsion bar. In suspension systems of this type, the torsion bar extends longitudinally along the length of the vehicle. One end of the torsion bar is connected to a suspension control arm while the other end is connected to the vehicle frame. The torsion bar twists with articulation of the suspension component to provide a torsional elastic resistance to the up/down or jounce/rebound movement of the suspension component. The torsion bar thereby acts as a spring to absorb vibrations from the road surface and provide particular handling qualities.
As noted, one end of the torsion bar is attached to the vehicle frame. It is known to provide an anchor arm to connect the end of the torsion bar to the frame. The anchor arm rigidly attaches the torsion bar to the vehicle frame. The anchor arm also allows the torsion bar to be preloaded or twisted to provide a particular initial spring rate to the torsion bar and thereby tune the suspension characteristics. However, such conventional torsion bar anchor arm systems, once preloaded, are limited to the predefined constant spring rate of the torsion bar.
Accordingly, it is desirable to provide a torsion bar suspension, which can provide dual spring rates.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The suspension system according to the present invention generally includes an adjuster assembly to provide a spring biased mount between a torsion bar and a vehicle frame. The torsion bar is rotationally mounted through a vehicle frame cross member and attached thereto by the adjuster assembly. Preferably, the adjuster assembly interacts with a stop to limit rotation of the torsion bar. Further, the stop provides a fixed support for a biasing member to act against the anchor arm. Rotation of the anchor arm toward the stop compresses the biasing member and provides an elastic resistance to rotational movement of the torsion bar.
The biasing member provides an elastic resistance to torsion bar rotation for suspension system vibrations below a predetermined torsional force. However, when the predetermined torsional force is exceeded, the elastic resistance of the biasing member is overcome and the anchor arm rotates into contact with the stop. Further suspension system vibrations are absorbable by the torsion bar to provide a stiffer suspension response. The stiffer suspension is thus provided when required, such as when cornering, while allowing a smooth ride when not required, such as during normal straight travelling.
The present invention therefore provides a torsion bar mounting assembly for a vehicle suspension system which can enhance riding comfort and handling by dualized the response of the suspension system.
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Clements Mark
Fader Joe
Hawkins Jim
Keeney Chris
Yollick Steve
Carlson & Gaskey & Olds
Dunn David R.
Meritor Light Vehicle Systems, Inc.
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