LOW-FREQUENCY-RATE SPRING SUSPENSION SYSTEM FOR A WHEELED VEHICLE

摘要

LOW-FREQUENCY-RATE SPRING SUSPENSION SYSTEM FOR A WHEELED VEHICLE A low-frequency rate spring suspension system for a wheeled vehicle. A metal leaf spring has one end shackled directly to a bracket on the vehicle frame and a central portion secured to an axle. The second end of the leaf spring is spaced from the frame with guide means limiting lateral movement thereof while enabling vertical and longitudinal movement thereof. An air bag of an air spring is secured to the leaf spring in between the second end and the central portion and is also secured to the frame, the air bag being offset from the axle. The height of the air bag is controlled by a valve and a lever, so that the second end does not come into contact with the frame except under extraordinary circumstances. The leaf spring positions the air bag relative to the axle and provides roll resistance, while the air spring carries load to the frame in parallel with the forward section of the leaf spring, and no vertical load is placed on the leaf spring through the rear bracket. The guide means provide lateral location to the second end of the leaf spring without transmitting vertical load.