Shock-absorbing wheel suspension assembly

Abstract

The improved shock-absorbing wheel suspension assembly of the present invention comprises a rigid yoke having a generally upstanding neck and a pair of downwardly diverging hollow tubular sleeves connected to the lower end of the neck, both sleeves being directed either rearwardly or forwardly relative to the neck. A pair of flexible resilient lever support arms are provided which have their upper ends extending into the sleeves. Their middle portions are generally parallel to each other and extend downwardly and in the same rearward or forward direction as the sleeves. The lower ends of the arms are angled to approximate each other in an about horizontal plane and are secured in the central hub of a wheel disposed therebetween. Thus, the wheel is disposed rearwardly or forwardly of the yoke and is adapted for rotation on an axle formed by the lower ends of the arms. The neck is connected to an upwardly extending stem, in turn connectable to the underside of the body of a vehicle or the like. During normal transport of the vehicle and rotation of the wheel, temporary displacements of the wheel occur, due to road shocks (rough roads, running over obstacles, etc.) Such shocks are effectively absorbed, dampened and minimized, since the middle portions of the arms flex and bow and undergo considerable torque. Thus, the assembly provides effective shock absorption through a simple, durable arrangement of components.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.