US 2004/0104061 A1 · Controlled truck cab suspension system

Abstract

The invention is a suspension system, typically for use between a cab and a truck frame, includes a strut module having a strut and an air spring, and a control module, connected to a source of pressurized air, for sensing a distance between the cab and truck frame and selectively pressurizing the air spring in response to changes in that distance. Preferably, the strut is a McPherson-type strut and the air spring encloses at least a portion of the strut to provide a compact assembly and includes a three point connection to the cab and frame to resist relative lateral movement between the cab and frame. The strut also preferably is a magnetorheological-type damper so that the control module can adjust the damping characteristics of the strut to optimize rider comfort.

Claims25

Dependent claims

A controlled suspension system for use between a truck cab and an associated truck frame comprising:

(a) strut adapted to be attached at one end to a truck cab and at an opposite end to an associated truck frame, said strut including an air sleeve capable of being selectively pressurized;
(b) a height sensor adapted to be attached to said truck cab and said associated truck frame for measuring a distance therebetween and generating a signal indicative thereof;
and
(c) a controller for receiving said signal from said height sensor and selectively pressurizing said strut;
(d) whereby said distance between said cab and said associated truck frame is maintained within desired limits by selective pressurization of said strut.

2 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Controlled truck cab suspension system

Life of this patent

Controlled truck cab suspension system

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims25