| 摘要 |
A multi-stage suspension for an axle of a vehicle comprises a first spring, for example a set of leaf springs (24), having a high stiffness which is linked to the axle via a connection which is inoperative at low loading. At low loading suspension is provided by a second spring, for example an air bar (50), having a low stiffness interposed between the first spring and a pivotal arm (38) which supports the axle. Light loads are thereby carried by the low stiffness second spring while high loads are carried by the high stiffness first spring. The mounting of the second spring between the first spring and the pivotal arm (38) results in full axle movement being maintained without restriction by the presence of the second spring whereby the axle is capable of movement over rough terrain. |
