CONTROLLABLE LOAD DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM FOR A VEHICLE

摘要

A weight distribution system for dynamically controlling and adjusting the weight load on each axle of a vehicle 10 uses a manifold 26 that is fluid flow disposed between a source of pressured air 24 of the vehicle and the air bags 18 of the vehicle 12. The manifold 26 allows an individual air bag 18 to be inflated or deflated to a desired pressurization depending on either preprogrammed or user input parameters. By individually controlling the air bags 18, the system allows the setting of the maximum amount of weight to be borne by a given axle 14 so that tires 16 can be removed from that axle 14 without weight overloading the remaining tires 16. The system also automatically self-levels the chassis of the vehicle 12 and maintains proper ride height of the vehicle 12 using input from a height sensor 20 located on one of the axles 14. The system wirelessly communicates, terrestrially or via satellite 48, its parameters to roadway officials to verify that the vehicle 12 is in compliance with weight loading requirements and to the home office or other location via a satellite link.