NZ626959B2 - Assembly to adjust the height of an axle of a vehicle - Google Patents
Assembly to adjust the height of an axle of a vehicle Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- NZ626959B2 NZ626959B2 NZ626959A NZ62695912A NZ626959B2 NZ 626959 B2 NZ626959 B2 NZ 626959B2 NZ 626959 A NZ626959 A NZ 626959A NZ 62695912 A NZ62695912 A NZ 62695912A NZ 626959 B2 NZ626959 B2 NZ 626959B2
- Authority
- NZ
- New Zealand
- Prior art keywords
- assembly
- axle
- vehicle
- casing
- axle casing
- Prior art date
Links
- 239000000725 suspension Substances 0.000 claims description 18
- 238000002485 combustion reaction Methods 0.000 claims description 2
- 238000011068 load Methods 0.000 description 26
- 230000000712 assembly Effects 0.000 description 13
- 150000002500 ions Chemical class 0.000 description 7
- 230000001965 increased Effects 0.000 description 6
- 229920001971 elastomer Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000006011 modification reaction Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000000284 resting Effects 0.000 description 3
- 229910000831 Steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 230000004913 activation Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000000875 corresponding Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000010959 steel Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000037250 Clearance Effects 0.000 description 1
- 241001465754 Metazoa Species 0.000 description 1
- 239000004677 Nylon Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229940035295 Ting Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 230000035512 clearance Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000006073 displacement reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000806 elastomer Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000003028 elevating Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000001125 extrusion Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920001778 nylon Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000004810 polytetrafluoroethylene Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920001343 polytetrafluoroethylene Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 238000005096 rolling process Methods 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
- B60G17/00—Resilient suspensions having means for adjusting the spring or vibration-damper characteristics, for regulating the distance between a supporting surface and a sprung part of vehicle or for locking suspension during use to meet varying vehicular or surface conditions, e.g. due to speed or load
- B60G17/005—Suspension locking arrangements
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
- B60G17/00—Resilient suspensions having means for adjusting the spring or vibration-damper characteristics, for regulating the distance between a supporting surface and a sprung part of vehicle or for locking suspension during use to meet varying vehicular or surface conditions, e.g. due to speed or load
- B60G17/015—Resilient suspensions having means for adjusting the spring or vibration-damper characteristics, for regulating the distance between a supporting surface and a sprung part of vehicle or for locking suspension during use to meet varying vehicular or surface conditions, e.g. due to speed or load the regulating means comprising electric or electronic elements
- B60G17/017—Resilient suspensions having means for adjusting the spring or vibration-damper characteristics, for regulating the distance between a supporting surface and a sprung part of vehicle or for locking suspension during use to meet varying vehicular or surface conditions, e.g. due to speed or load the regulating means comprising electric or electronic elements characterised by their use when the vehicle is stationary, e.g. during loading, engine start-up or switch-off
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
- B60G2300/00—Indexing codes relating to the type of vehicle
- B60G2300/04—Trailers
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
- B60G2300/00—Indexing codes relating to the type of vehicle
- B60G2300/38—Low or lowerable bed vehicles
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
- B60G2800/00—Indexing codes relating to the type of movement or to the condition of the vehicle and to the end result to be achieved by the control action
- B60G2800/20—Stationary vehicle
- B60G2800/203—Stationary vehicle lowering the floor for loading/unloading
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60G—VEHICLE SUSPENSION ARRANGEMENTS
- B60G3/00—Resilient suspensions for a single wheel
- B60G3/02—Resilient suspensions for a single wheel with a single pivoted arm
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60P—VEHICLES ADAPTED FOR LOAD TRANSPORTATION OR TO TRANSPORT, TO CARRY, OR TO COMPRISE SPECIAL LOADS OR OBJECTS
- B60P1/00—Vehicles predominantly for transporting loads and modified to facilitate loading, consolidating the load, or unloading
- B60P1/02—Vehicles predominantly for transporting loads and modified to facilitate loading, consolidating the load, or unloading with parallel up-and-down movement of load supporting or containing element
- B60P1/027—Vehicles predominantly for transporting loads and modified to facilitate loading, consolidating the load, or unloading with parallel up-and-down movement of load supporting or containing element with relative displacement of the wheel axles
Abstract
assembly for adjusting the distance between a wheel axle of a vehicle, e.g. a trailer or caravan, and a surface of a road. The assembly comprises: an axle casing (2) connected substantially parallel to at least one wheel axle (3) and rotatably connected proximal to an underside of the vehicle. The assembly also includes at least one actuator arm (30) fixed to and extending from the axle casing. The assembly further having at least one retraction mechanism connected in a fixed position in relation to the vehicle. The mechanism has at least one retractable linkage (13) connected to the at least one actuator arm, which is adapted to be adjusted in length to rotate the actuator arm with respect to the vehicle and raise or lower the altitude of the axles. e assembly also includes at least one actuator arm (30) fixed to and extending from the axle casing. The assembly further having at least one retraction mechanism connected in a fixed position in relation to the vehicle. The mechanism has at least one retractable linkage (13) connected to the at least one actuator arm, which is adapted to be adjusted in length to rotate the actuator arm with respect to the vehicle and raise or lower the altitude of the axles.
Description
ASSEMBLY TO ADJUST THE HEIGHT OF AN AXLE OF A VEHICLE
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present invention relates to wheeled transport s and rs that
are towed behind a vehicle having a cargo bay to ort a load and in
ular, transport devices or and trailers having a cargo bay that can be
lowered towards the surface of the road to assist loading of the cargo bay.
BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION
Mechanisms that enable the lowering and elevation of vehicle axles and in
particular, the axle of a trailer, in order to adjust the height of an associated
cargo bay from ground level, are well known. It is often a ity that
when loading large or heavy objects onto a trailer that the loading deck of
the trailer is lowered to be close to the surface of the road to assist g.
Typically the lowering and elevation of a trailer is achieved through the use
of either hydraulic or electrical motor driven systems and also through
manually operated mechanisms. Whilst the use of all of the above may
achieve the desired result, lic systems in particular are expensive
and when used in relation to relatively low weight loads such as motor
cycles, lawnmowers and the like, being over specified and unnecessary. As
such, it would be useful in many scenarios to provide an assembly specified
appropriately for loading such low weight items, for an affordable price. In
particular, it would be ageous to provide such an assembly that
incorporates at least some conventional, readily available parts, such as
conventional torsion bar suspension arrangements and conventional swing
arms, in order to reduce the need for ing bespoke and potentially
expensive parts.
A range of electrically and manually operated solutions to adjust the height
of vehicle and in particular, trailer axles, are currently in existence. For
example, United States patent no. 6592139 discloses a linkage mechanism
to pivot the wheels of a trailer around a raised axis in order to adjust the
axle height of the trailer. However, the multiple linkage points and lack of
mechanical advantage provided when operating the mechanism are likely to
generate large friction forces, which would prove difficult to operate and
increase the likelihood of mechanical failure. Furthermore, due to the
multiple linkage design, the disclosed invention poses a further drawback by
requiring a erable amount of space under the trailer and would prove
some to retro fit to an existing trailer. Accordingly, it would be
beneficial in many instances to provide a reliable, compact and simple
solution that can be produced as a te ly, adapted to be fitted
to existing conventional trailers.
An alternative solution that attempts to resolve some of these problems is
disclosed in United States patent no. 2807381 in which a mechanism that
uses a cable and winch arrangement to alter the on of the wheels and
ingly alter the height of the trailer is shown. However there are also a
number of cks inherent in this solution, for example, the single
winch arrangement es that the axle height of each wheel of the trailer
are adjusted simultaneously and accordingly, can not be ed
independently. Also the cables are likely to stretch during use or break.
Accordingly, it would be useful to provide a solution that avoids or
substantially alleviates any of the disadvantages present in the prior art, or
which provides a useful alternative to the prior art approaches.
Y OF THE INVENTION
According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, there is provided an
assembly for adjusting the distance between a wheel axle of a vehicle and a
surface of a road, the assembly comprising an axle casing connected
substantially parallel to at least one wheel axle and rotatably connected
proximal to an underside of the vehicle, at least one actuator arm fixed to
and extending from the axle casing and at least one retraction mechanism
connected in a fixed position in relation to the vehicle, the mechanism
having at least one retractable linkage connected to the at least one
actuator arm and d to be ed in length to rotate the actuator
arm with respect to the vehicle. In such an embodiment, it is preferable
that the axle casing has one or more casing brackets connected along its
length, each casing bracket adapted to rotatably connect the axle casing to
the underside of a vehicle around a pivot point. Furthermore, the assembly
preferably includes a locking mechanism ted in a fixed position in
relation to the e, having a pin configured to deploy from a retracted
position to slidably engage with at least one aperture arranged through an
actuator arm, fixing the actuator arm in a locked position.
According to one aspect of the invention, an actuator arm, a retraction
mechanism and a retractable linkage are positioned nt to each wheel
axle. In this arrangement, each retraction mechanism is arranged
substantially below an associated second end of an actuator arm.
In an alternative embodiment of the invention the axle casing is connected
to each wheel axle by a swing arm, each swing arm having a shaft arranged
substantially perpendicular thereto and rotatably connected to a longitudinal
axis of the axle casing and a wheel axle arranged ntially
perpendicular thereto and adapted to connect to a wheel. IN such a
configuration, the axle casing houses a torsion bar suspension assembly.
According to another aspect of the invention, the axle casing is connected
between a pair of wheel axles.
In one preferred embodiment, each retraction mechanism includes a drum
connected to the retractable linkage. Preferably each drum is rotated by at
least one drive means and the drive means is ed from one or more of:
an electric motor, a hydraulic motor, an internal combustion , a
manually rotated ratchet mechanism or a worm drive.
atively, in another preferred ment, the ly has a single
drive means, being a drive shaft connected to a pair of tion
mechanisms and configured to rotate the drum of each mechanism
simultaneously.
According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, the retractable
linkage is ed from one or more of: a belt, a chain, a cable or a
hydraulic piston.
In yet another preferred embodiment of the invention, at least one casing
bracket is rotatably connected to a frame bracket, the frame bracket
adapted to be connected to the vehicle. Furthermore, it is preferable that
the at least one retraction mechanism and g mechanism are fixed to
the frame bracket. Alternatively, the at least one casing bracket is rotatably
connected to a first frame bracket and the at least one retraction
mechanism and locking mechanism are connected to a second frame
bracket.
In one preferred embodiment, the locking mechanism is remotely activated
by one or more of the following: an electric solenoid, a cable, a pneumatic
piston or a hydraulic ram.
In an alternative red embodiment, the pivot point is arranged
between a longitudinal axis of the axle casing and a wheel axle. sely,
in an alternative preferred embodiment, a longitudinal axis of the axle
casing is arranged between the pivot point and a wheel axle.
It is preferable that each actuator arm is fixed arranged substantially
perpendicular to the axle casing.
rmore, it is preferable that the vehicle is selected from: a trailer,
ing a boat trailer, motorcycle trailer, animal trailer such as a horse
box or a caravan.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of
example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
Figure 1 is prior art, rating a perspective view of a conventional rubber
torsion bar sion axle assembly;
Figure 2 is prior art, illustrating a side view of the assembly shown in the
previous figure rotated around an axle casing of the torsion bar suspension
assembly to elevate the wheels from ground level;
Figure 3 is a side view of a preferred embodiment of the ion, showing
an assembly having a casing bracket fixed to the axle casing;
Figure 4 is a perspective view of a first preferred embodiment of the
invention having an actuator arm fixed to an axle casing;
Figure 5 is perspective view of the embodiment shown in the previous figure
attached to a sub—frame;
Figure 6 is an alternative ctive view of the embodiment shown in the
previous figure having an actuator arm and associated axle casing, swing
arm and wheel ax|e rotated to a first preferred on;
Figure 7 is further alternative perspective view of the embodiment shown in
the previous two s having the actuator arm and associated
components d to a second preferred position;
Figure 8 is a perspective view of an alternative preferred embodiment of the
invention secured to a trailer;
Figure 9 is a perspective view of a r alternative preferred embodiment
of the invention secured to an ative trailer;
Figures 10 and 11 show perspective view of the embodiment of the
ion shown in Figure 8 having the assembly of the present invention
rotated from a first preferred position to a second preferred position;
Figure 12 is a perspective view of two alternative preferred embodiments of
the invention;
Figure 13 is an alternative perspective view of the two embodiments shown
in the previous figure, each connected to a pair of wheels and drive means;
Figure 14 is a perspective view of a first alternative preferred embodiment
of the invention previously shown in Figure 12;
Figure 15 is a side view of part of the ment shown in the previous
figure;
Figures 16A-16B are perspective views of the embodiment shown in Figure
14, illustrated offset from the underside of a trailer and attached to the
ide of the trailer;
Figures 17A—17B are perspective views of the embodiment shown in Figure
14, the assembly having two actuator arms and an associated axle ,
swing arms and wheel axles shown in a first preferred position and a second
preferred position;
Figure 18 is a detailed view of the embodiment shown in the previous two
figures;
Figure 19A -19B are further ed and cross-section views of the
embodiment shown in the previous figures, rating features of a locking
mechanism;
Figure 20 is a detailed view of part of the embodiment shown in the
previous figures;
Figure 21 is a perspective view of a further preferred embodiment of the
invention, having two motors connected to a drive shaft;
Figure 22 is a detailed view of a further alternative preferred embodiment of
the invention, having an alternative casing bracket configuration;
Figure 23 is a side view of the embodiment shown in the previous figure;
Figures 24A—24C are perspective and side view of the embodiment shown in
the us two figures, connected to a pair of wheels and drive means
and shown having two actuator arms and associated ents d
between a first preferred position and a second preferred position;
Figures 25A-ZSB are a ctive and side view of the embodiment shown
in the previous s connected to an alternative trailer chassis.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
The present invention relates to an assembly used to adjust the axle height
of a wheeled vehicle and in particular, to adjust the axle height of a trailer.
The assembly assists access to the loading deck of the vehicle by lowering
the deck towards the surface of the road by adjusting the ce between
the surface of the road and the wheel axle. This may be necessary due to
the load being of a substantial weight or size which would prove difficult to
ly lift onto the loading deck, or that the load may be more
conveniently loaded by rolling onto the loading deck directly from the road
surface.
The preferred embodiment of the ly of the present invention may be
integral with or retro fitted to a conventional lightweight trailer, which are
typically towed behind a domestic automobile or van and used to transport
items such as motor cycles, bicycles, lawn mowers, small boats, animals
and the like. Whilst the preferred embodiment is focused on trailers, it is
also within the scope of the invention that the assembly may also be
integral or retro fitted to front wheel drive vehicles, caravans, motor homes
and other towed items.
The elevation and ng of a loading deck or cargo bay of a trailer by the
assembly of the present invention is driven either by powered or manual
means and is achieved by rotating at least one axle height adjusting
assembly around a pivot point ting each assembly to a r,
preferably being the underside of the trailer. By doing so, the distance of
the wheel axle from ground level, typically being a surface of a road, is
adjusted and consequently, the loading deck is either lowered or elevated in
relation to the road surface. It is preferable that the ion provides the
option of ng the axles of the vehicle either simultaneously or
2012/001522
independently, enabling a user to tilt the loading deck towards one side of
the trailer or another when g if necessary.
An alternative preferred embodiment is directed towards providing a stand-
alone kit, including at least two height adjustment assemblies attached to a
sub-frame, the sub-frame adapted to be retro-fitted to a conventional trailer
or towed item.
A further alternative preferred embodiment of the invention is adapted to
connect to a conventional torsion bar sion axle assembly having an
axle casing rotatably connected to a pair of swing arms at either side of the
casing, each swing arm having an axle adapted to connect to a tional
e wheel, the axle casing housing a plurality of resilient torsion bars
which allow each swing arm to be rotatably displaced, before being forced
by the torsion bars to their original orientation. Such an arrangement
provides an adequate level of wheel displacement dampening when a trailer
is in transit and es a cost effective solution by utilising readily
available parts. It is preferable that the n bar within such an
embodiment is made from an elastomer however, steel, coil springs or
other suitable dampening torsion bar materials are within the scope of the
invention. However, it is also within the scope of the invention that other
suspension means such as conventional leaf spring or coil spring
arrangements may be used in place of a torsion bar suspension assembly.
In such an embodiment of the ion, it is preferable that the attachment
means between the assembly and a trailer or vehicle is provided by a
bracket, configured to rotatably connect an axle casing of the torsion bar
suspension assembly, around which the swing arms rotate, from a pivot
point between the assembly and trailer. Such an ement provides the
advantage that when used with conventional, short length swing arm units,
the ative axis of rotation n the assembly and trailer provides
an increased radius of rotation and consequently, an increased length of
travel of the trailer wheel axle. It is preferable that the bracket is attached
to the exterior of the torsion bar sion axle casing, enabling the entire
suspension arrangement and axle height adjusting sub-assemblies to rotate
around the bracket pivot point. Such an arrangement provides an economic
alternative to other known systems wherein a n bar suspension
ement is rotated around its own longitudinal axis, typically requiring
complex and expensive bushes and bearings and increasing the chances of
mechanical failure.
Referring to the drawings, Figure 1 shows a conventional rubber torsion bar
suspension axle arrangement (1), having an axle casing (2) extending
n a pair of swing arms (4), each swing arm connected at a first end
to a longitudinal axis arranged h the centre of the axle casing and
positioned at an angle to the axle casing, and connected at a second end to
an axle (3), adapted to connect to a conventional vehicle wheel. Each swing
arm has an axle (not shown) arranged perpendicular to its first end that
extends partially along the longitudinal axis the axle casing and which is
surrounded at regular intervals by a plurality of torsion bars, ed
substantially parallel to the axle typically being in each corner of the axle
casing, the n bars providing a resilient element that allows the swing
arm to rotate in relation to the axle , due to forces applied to a wheel
connected at the second end of the swing arm, and subsequently forcing
the swing arm to return to its original orientation.
Figure 2 shows a prior art approach to adjusting the axle height of a torsion
bar suspension arrangement, showing two side views of the assembly
shown in Figure 1, attached to a wheel (5). The assembly is shown in a
first position on the left, having the wheel in contact with a surface, such as
a road, and a second position on the right, where the entire assembly is
rotated counter-clockwise around the longitudinal axis (6) of the axle casing
(2) by 90 degrees, lifting the wheel upwards and away from the surface. It
can be seen from Figure 2 that the lift of the wheel axle (3) attainable in
this arrangement is limited by the length of the swing arm (4) which
es the distance n the pivot point, in this case being the
longitudinal axis of the axle casing, and the wheel axle, being the radius
that the wheel axle is able to be rotated by.
In Figure 3 a preferred embodiment of the assembly of the present
invention is shown, having a casing bracket (7) fixed to a side of an axle
casing (2), providing an alternative attachment point between the assembly
and a vehicle, or a trailer, and an alternative pivot point (8) which the
assembly is rotatable around with respect to the vehicle. As shown in Figure
3, as the casing bracket (7) offsets the pivot point (8) of the assembly from
the longitudinal axis of the axle casing (2), the distance between the pivot
point and the wheel axle (3) is increased and consequently the lift of the
wheel axle that is attainable is also increased.
In Figure 4 a further preferred ment of the assembly of the invention
is shown, incorporating the embodiment shown in Figure 3 which includes a
conventional torsion bar suspension arrangement, a wheel (5) and at least
one casing bracket (7) adapted to rotatably connect the assembly to a
vehicle around a pivot point (8), to allow the position of the wheel axle (3),
and an associated wheel, to be adjusted in relation to a road surface, which
in turn, adjusts the height of a g deck of the e. The assembly
es an actuating member (10), preferably being an arm, connected at
a first end to an axle casing (2) and having a substantially r length
than a conventional torsion bar suspension swing arm (4), the arm adapted
to be ted at a second end, distal to the first end, to a mechanism to
rotate the arm and the associated assembly in relation to a vehicle and
provide a ical advantage, being an increase in torque, due to the the
distance between the connection point of the mechanism and the pivot
point.
A further preferred embodiment of the invention is shown in Figure 5
wherein the assembly is fixed to a conventional torsion bar suspension
arrangement, an axle casing (2) of the arrangement being connected by
one or more casing brackets (7) to the underside of a vehicle or r, or
in this case to a sub—frame (11), to provide a pivot point (8) which the axle
casing (2) and assembly rotates around in relation to the sub—frame.
The sub—frame (11) is d at points (12) to be attached to the
underside of a e or trailer, however it is also within the scope of the
invention that the construction of the framework is adapted to be integral to
the structure of the vehicle or trailer. The actuator arm (10) is shown
connected at its second end to a retractable linkage (13), preferably being a
belt, connected between the arm and a retraction ism which
includes a drum (14) and a drive means (15), in this case being an electric
motor. The belt may be retracted around the drum (14) by the drive means
(15) in order to rotate the assembly in relation to the ame around the
pivot point (8). Whilst it is able that the retractable linkage (13) is a
belt, it is also within the scope of the invention that such means may
include other conventional retractable elements, such as a hydraulic ram, a
chain, a cable, a screw thread, a worm drive and the like.
Figure 6 is a second view of the embodiment shown in Figure 5 where the
belt (13) has been wound by the motor (15) around the drum (14), rotating
the actuator arm (10) to preferred first position to e an ated
wheel axle (3) at a minimum preferred height from ground level and
accordingly, the loading deck of the vehicle at a maximum red height
from ground level at or near a road surface or the like.
Figure 7 is a third view of the embodiment shown in Figure 3, in which the
motor (15) has released the belt (13) from the drum (14) and accordingly,
due to the weight of a vehicle or trailer connected to the sub—frame (11),
the wheel axle (3) is forced upward, away from ground level to a preferred
second position, arranging the wheel axle at a maximum preferred height
from ground level and an associated loading deck at a minimum preferred
height from ground level at or near a road surface or the like.
In Figure 7, features of a locking mechanism are also shown, the
ism preferably including at least one aperture (15) through the
actuator arm (10), at least one corresponding aperture (16) h the
vehicle body, or in this through the case sub—frame (11), and a locking shaft
(not , configured to be extended from a retracted, ed position,
allowing the actuator arm to rotate freely in relation to the sub—frame, to a
deployed, locked position, sliding through the pair of apertures (15), (16)
when the actuator arm rotates to that the apertures are aligned and
securing the actuator arm in a first preferred position. Preferably, this
position is at the minimum wheel axle height and securely fixes the sub-
assembly at the maximum loading deck height, reducing forces transmitted
through the retraction mechanism and increasing the structural integrity of
the ly when orting heavy loads. Whilst it is preferable this
position is at one extent of the required assembly rotation, it is also within
the scope of the invention that there are a plurality of apertures arranged
through the actuator arm along the arc of rotation, allowing the actuator
arm to be secured to to a e or sub—frame at multiple positions, which
provide different increments of axle height adjustment as ed.
Figure 8 illustrates an alternative preferred embodiment of the invention
having two height adjusting assemblies attached to a trailer (17), each
assembly having a retraction mechanism that includes a ratchet (18) and a
port for a handle (19) to allow manual adjustment of the rotational position
of each assembly. ably the embodiment also includes at least one
hydraulic piston (20), attached between the trailer and the axle casing (2)
to dampen the rotational motion of the assemblies when reducing the
height of the loading deck (21). In the preferred embodiment, a drive shaft
(22) is connected between the ratchet mechanism of a pair of assemblies to
enable parallel lowering and elevation of wheel axles using a single handle.
Figure 9 illustrates a further alternative preferred embodiment of the
invention, having two height ing lies ed to an alternative
trailer (23). At least one assembly having a retraction mechanism that
includes a gearbox (24), ably having a worm gear, and a port (25) to
attach a power tool, such as an electric drill, in order to provide the drive
means and rotate the assemblies. The retraction mechanisms are also
connected by drive shaft (26) to provide a parallel motion between both
mechanisms when lowering and elevating the wheel axles.
Figure 10 is a second view of the embodiment shown in Figure 8, where
both height ing assemblies have been rotated to a first red
position providing m ce between each wheel axle (3) and the
surface of a road and lowering a loading deck (21) towards the road. A
load, in this case a motor cycle (27), has been rolled up a ramp and secured
to the loading deck. Preferably, the trailer also includes wheel ion
means (28), configured to trap the front wheel of the motor cycle (27) and
secure the e when in transit.
Figure 11 is a third view of the embodiment shown in figure 8 where both
height adjusting assemblies have been rotated to a second preferred
on, reducing the distance between the wheel axle (3) and the surface
of a road to a preferred m. This increases the loading deck (21)
height to a preferred maximum distance for the trailer to be towed behind a
vehicle and transport the load.
In Figure 12, two further preferred alternative embodiments of the
invention are shown, a first configuration (40) being an alternative version
of the invention as shown in s 3—7 having an alternative casing
bracket (41), providing a pivot point (8) arranged between the longitudinal
axis of an axle casing (2) and a wheel axle (3) connected to a swing arm
(4). The second configuration (60) having a further alternative casing
t (61), positioning the longitudinal axis of the axle casing (2)
between a pivot point (8) and a wheel axle (3). The different arrangements
of the pivot point, axle casing axis and wheel axle both vary the distance
between the tion point (29) between a retraction mechanism and an
actuator arm (30), providing variations of mechanical advantage for the
drive means of the tion mechanism, essentially allowing a single drive
unit, such as an electric motor, to apply different levels of torque to the
actuator arm ing to the configuration. This also varies the distance
between the pivot point and the wheel axle, thereby varying the distance
the wheel axle can be displaced vertically in relation to ground level.
Figure 13 shows an alternative view of the embodiments shown in Figure
12, where each configuration (40), (60) is shown adjacent to frame
brackets (42), (62), (63). Each frame bracket is d to secure a height
adjusting assembly to the underside of a vehicle or trailer, similar to the
sub—frame (11) previously described. Both configurations are also shown
connected to a single drive means, in this case being an electric motor (15),
the motor in tion with a further alternative drive shaft (31),
preferably being a keyed or splined shaft allowing the motor to rotate the
shaft regardless of its connection position along its length, which is in turn
connected to a pair of height adjusting assemblies, to deploy or retract a
retractable element and allow both assemblies to rotate in relation to a
vehicle or trailer in parallel.
In Figure 14, a perspective view of the first configuration (40) of the
invention is shown, having the same ents as previously described in
on to the embodiment shown in s 2—7. A conventional torsion
bar suspension axle casing (2) is connected to axle ts (41) and
proximal to a first end of an actuating arm (30). The axle casing is also
connected to a pair of swing arms (4), each of which provide an axle (3)
adapted to connect to a wheel and configured to partially rotate in relation
to the axle casing (2) to dampen the ride of a vehicle attached to the
torsion bar suspension assembly. Each axle t (41) rotatably connects
the axle casing (2) to one of a pair of frame brackets (42) around a pivot
point (8). The pair of frame ts are preferably configured in a
mirrored orientation to one another, for the left and right hand side of the
assembly. Each bracket is adapted to connect to the underside of a e
or trailer, in this case, having a plurality of apertures arranged through a
top surface to allow fixtures, such as bolts, to be connected through.
r to the previously described embodiments, each actuator arm (30)
and associated torsion bar suspension assemblies are ble around the
pivot point (8) between the axle casing (2) and the frame brackets (32) by
releasing a retractable linkage connected between a point (29) proximal to
a second end of the actuator arm and the frame brackets (42), the linkage
being wound around a drum (14) and controllably released by a motor (15),
connected to a drive shaft (31). It is preferable that the drive shaft is
connected to and controls the rotation of a drum on both sides of the
assembly simultaneously, however it is within the scope of the invention
that a ity of motors, or other similar drive means, are provided to
2012/001522
control the on of the drum and actuating arm of each side of the
assembly independently.
In Figure 15, a side view of part of the assembly shown in Figure 14 is
shown, illustrating the relationship between a longitudinal axis of an axle
casing (2) (and associated swing arm (4) and wheel axle (3)), a pivot point
(8) provided by a casing bracket (41) connecting the axle casing to the
body or frame of a vehicle or trailer, or a frame bracket or sub-frame and a
connection point (29) between a retractable linkage and an actuating arm
(30).
As shown, it is preferable in such a configuration that a casing bracket
offsets the pivot point to be positioned n the longitudinal axis of the
axle casing and the wheel axle, providing an optimum lever length, i.e. the
distance between the tion point (29) between a retraction
mechanism and an actuator arm and the pivot point (8) and accordingly, an
appropriate quantity of torque to be applied by a drive means, such as a
motor, for most applications.
Should the torque need to be sed, for ce, if the assembly is
required to lift a heavy load secured to the loading deck of a trailer, the
casing t (41) may be adapted to provide a further alternative pivot
point, positioned to increase the distance between the pivot point and the
connection point between the arm and the retraction mechanism and
allowing the same motor to be used.
In Figures 16A-16B, the embodiment shown in Figure 14 is depicted in an
exploded view beneath the frame of a trailer. The assembly (40) is
connected to two wheels (5), and is connected to the underside of a trailer.
In the figures, a plurality of fixtures (43) can be seen positioned above, and
through the trailer frame to connect into the apertures arranged through
the frame brackets (42). From these figures, it will be appreciated that the
assembly shown is readily retro—fitted to a range of different trailer frames,
requiring only a few ical fixings, and little modification to be made
to a r to provide a height able trailer axle.
Figures 17A-17B show other views of the embodiment of the invention
shown in Figures 14-16, illustrating two height adjusting assemblies having
a retractable element. This is a belt (13), which is deployed by being
unwound from a drum (14) by a drive means (15), in this case being a
hydraulic motor or worm drive, and each actuator arm (30), and associated
axle casing (2), swing arms (4) and wheel axles (3), rotated to position
each wheel axle at a preferred maximum distance from ground level.
In Figure 178 it can be seen that each frame bracket (42) is adapted to
provide a fixing position for both a casing bracket (41), and associated pivot
point (8), and a locking mechanism. The mechanism includes a lock body
(44) y fixed to a side of the frame bracket, and ted to a
retractable pin (45), configured to be deployed from the body and through
an aperture in the actuator arm (30) when aligned with the pin and in the
preferred locking position, fixing the arm to the frame bracket. In this
arrangement, the likelihood that the lock pin (45) and aperture in the
actuator arm will be misaligned and unable to be ted is reduced,
improving nces in assembly and durability of the assembly. An
eccentric—centre stop (46) is also provided on the frame bracket, ing
additional support for the actuator arm to rest on when the assembly is
rotated and d in its locked position and being adjustable in size due
to the off centre attachment point, allowing the contact position between
the stop and the actuator arm to be adjusted.
Figure 18 shows an additional detailed view of the embodiment shown in
Figure 17A/17B, having both belts (13) wound around each associated
drum (14) by the drive means (15), rotating each actuator arm (30) to an
alternative on. This arranges each wheel axle (3) at a preferred
minimum distance from ground level. In the figure, both locking
mechanisms can be seen to have deployed a locking pin (45), to extend
from the frame bracket (42) through an re arranged through each
actuator arm and into a pin housing (47), ably being a PTFE or nylon
bush to reduce friction between the housing and the pin. The arm can be
seen to also be resting on the stop (46), further supporting the arm in its
locked position. A ligning bearing is also shown (48) fitted between
the drive shaft (31) and the frame bracket (42) to compensate for trailer
frame deformation when the frame, and attached height adjusting
lies, are lifting heavy loads.
Figures 19A-19B show further detailed and cross-sectional views of the
embodiment shown in Figure 18, illustrating features of a lock mechanism
for ng an actuator arm, and associated tional torsion bar
suspension arrangement, in a fixed position. This fixed position is
preferably a minimum wheel axle distance from ground level and
accordingly, a preferably m trailer or vehicle cargo bay distance
from ground level.
Each lock ism includes a lock body (44), attached to a frame bracket
(42), the body surrounding a locking pin (45) configured to be slidably
engaged with an actuator arm when rotated to a preferred locking position
and having an aperture aligned with the locking pin, the aperture having a
pin housing (47) to receive the pin. Each locking mechanism also has
activation means (49), being an electric solenoid, pneumatic piston,
hydraulic ram or cable to allow remote activation of the locking ism.
The lock body preferably also includes a brace (50) connecting the lock
body to the frame bracket to provide additional support to the lock body
during use and prevent the body rotating in on to the frame bracket.
Figure 20 is a perspective view of the embodiment shown in Figure 15,
illustrating a preferred embodiment of the actuator arm (30), wherein the
arm is formed in a partial box section to increase the stiffness of the
ent. Preferably, the part is formed from folded sheet metal,
machined sections of an extrusion or cut from an RHS steel beam,
according to user requirements. It will be appreciated that this construction
is also appropriate for the various frame brackets (42), (62), (63).
In Figure 21 a further preferred ment of the invention is shown
having a plurality of drive means (15), in this case being two electric
motors, connected to a single drive shaft (31) to provide additional lifting
force for particularly heavy loads. It will be appreciated that more than two
drive units may be connected to a single drive shaft according to user
requirements.
Figure 22 shows a detailed perspective view of yet another alternative
preferred embodiment of the second uration (60) of the invention,
having an alternative casing bracket (61) connected to the same axle casing
(2) and actuator arm (30). The alternative t (61) increases the
distance between the pivot point (8) and both the wheel axle (3) and
retraction mechanism connection point (29).
Figure 23 is a side view of the embodiment shown in Figure 22, rating
the alternative position of the pivot point (8) and casing bracket (61)
arrangement. Due to the increase in distance n the pivot point and
the wheel axle (3), the radius of the arc which the wheel is ble along
is larger and accordingly, the vertical height which the wheel can be lifted
from ground level is greater.
Figures 24A-24C show different views of the embodiment shown in Figures
22, 23, connected to two alternative frame brackets (62), (63) and the
same drive means (15), drive shaft (31), retraction mechanism (13), (14)
and lock mechanism (44), (45), (47), (49). Accordingly, it will be
appreciated that the modular nature of the invention allows for relatively
minor modifications to be made and a substantially identical set of
components to be re-used to provide an alternative axle height adjustment
assembly with different characteristics.
Figure 24A shows the second configuration (60) of the ion having a
pair of height adjusting assemblies rotated to a preferred minimum axle
height position, having an axle casing (2), and associated pair of actuator
arms (30), swing arms (4), wheel axles (3) and wheels (5), fixed to at least
two casing brackets (61), each bracket rotatably ted to a first frame
bracket (62). A drive means (15) is ed, connected along the length of
a drive shaft (31), preferably being a keyed or splined shaft and configured
to rotate the shaft. The shaft is connected to a pair of second frame
WO 86567
brackets (63) and associated drums (13), each drum having a retractable
element wound around it and connected to an end of an actuator arm. Each
second frame bracket (63) also has a lock mechanism secured to a e
and configured to deploy a locking pin (45) through the bracket and into a
pin g (47) formed on the actuator arm.
Figures 24B-24C shows the embodiment shown in Figure 24A having the
height adjusting assemblies rotated to a preferred maximum axle height
position, wherein due to the on of the pivot point (8) provided by the
casing brackets (61) in relation to the retraction mechanism and second
frame brackets (63), the frame ts are resting on ground level the
wheels are either not touching or lightly resting on the ground, not
supporting the weight of the assembly or associated trailer. This is
ularly useful for applications which require very little ground clearance
to assist loading a trailer or vehicle to which the assembly is attached or
which would benefit from a g deck being flat, as opposed to an
inclined surface to assist loading.
Figures 25A—258 illustrate the ement shown in Figures 24A—24C in
relation to a trailer frame, showing the assembly attached to an underside
of a customised trailer frame (64). Figure 25A shows the d wheel
arch sections (65) which house the frame brackets (62), (63) and which
allow the axle casing (2) to be rotated to be substantially level with the
pivot point between the casing brackets (61) and the first frame bracket
(62), and the trailer frame to rest on ground level.
In this specification, unless the context clearly tes otherwise, the term
“comprising” has the non—exclusive meaning of the word, in the sense of
“including at least” rather than the exclusive meaning in the sense of
“consisting only of”. The same applies with corresponding grammatical
changes to other forms of the word such as “comprise , comprises” and so
It will be apparent to a person skilled in the art that obvious variations or
modifications may be made which are in accordance with the spirit of the
invention and are considered to be within the scope of the ion.
IN AL APPLICABILITY
The invention can be utilised in relation to all wheeled vehicles and in
particular, in relation to towed trailers.
Claims (12)
1. An assembly for adjusting the distance between an underside of a vehicle and a ground surface, the assembly comprising: an axle casing ted substantially parallel to the underside of the vehicle; a pair of swing arms, each swing arm being resiliently and rotatably ted at a al end to the axle casing; a wheel axle connected at a distal end of each swing arm; two or arms fixed to and extending from the axle casing; a tion mechanism associated with each of the two actuator arms and rotatably connected in a fixed position in relation to the vehicle, each retraction mechanism having a retractable linkage connected to the associated actuator arm, each retraction mechanism when rotated ing the length of the retractable linkage to rotate the associated actuator arm, the axle casing attached o, and the swing arms with respect to the vehicle; and a shaft interconnecting the retraction mechanisms.
2. An assembly as d in claim 1, wherein the axle casing has one or more casing brackets connected along its length, each casing bracket adapted to rotatably connect the axle casing to the underside of the vehicle around a pivot point, the axle casing being offset from a pivot axis defined by the pivot points.
3. An assembly as defined in claim 1 or 2, further comprising at least one locking mechanism connected in a fixed position in relation to the vehicle, each mechanism having a pin configured to deploy from a retracted position to slidably engage with at least one aperture arranged through one of the two actuator arms, thereby fixing the actuator arm in a locked position.
4. An assembly as defined in claim 2, wherein the axle casing houses a n bar suspension assembly.
5. An assembly as defined in claim 1, wherein each retraction mechanism includes a drum connected to the retractable linkage.
6. An assembly as defined in claim 5, wherein each drum is rotated by at least one drive means.
7. An ly as defined in claim 6, having one drive means rotating the drive shaft interconnecting the tion mechanisms, thereby rotating the drum of each retraction mechanism simultaneously.
8. An assembly as defined in claim 6, wherein the drive means is selected from one or more of: an ic motor, a hydraulic motor, an internal combustion engine, a manually rotated ratchet mechanism or a worm drive.
9. An assembly as d in claim 1, wherein the retractable linkage is selected from one or more of: a belt, a chain, a cable or a lic piston.
10. An assembly as defined in claim 3, wherein the locking mechanism is remotely activated by one or more of the following: an electric id, a cable, a pneumatic piston or a hydraulic ram.
11. An assembly as defined in claim 2, wherein the two actuator arms, at an end proximal to the axle casing, contacts a ground surface when the vehicle is lowered, thereby providing stability.
12. An assembly as d in claim 2, wherein the distance from the pivot axis to the wheel axles is less than the distance from the axle casing to the wheel axles, thereby providing an improved leverage when applying a rotating force to the retraction mechanisms.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
AU2011905196 | 2011-12-13 | ||
AU2011905196A AU2011905196A0 (en) | 2011-12-13 | Height adjustable axle system for a trailer | |
PCT/AU2012/001522 WO2013086567A2 (en) | 2011-12-13 | 2012-12-13 | Assembly to adjust the height of an axle of a vehicle |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
NZ626959A NZ626959A (en) | 2015-07-31 |
NZ626959B2 true NZ626959B2 (en) | 2015-11-03 |
Family
ID=
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