Mark A Clements

US Patent:

6357771, Mar 19, 2002

Filed:

May 25, 2000

Appl. No.:

09/578647

Inventors:

Mark Clements - Lapeer MI
Joe Fader - Brighton MI
Chris Keeney - Troy MI
Steve Yollick - Troy MI
Jim Hawkins - Madison AL

Assignee:

Meritor Light Vehicle Systems, Inc. - Troy MI

International Classification:

B60G 399

US Classification:

28012413, 280124137, 280124167, 280124149

Abstract:

A suspension system includes a torsion bar attached to a vehicle frame member by an adjuster assembly including a spring biasing anchor arm. The biasing member provides an elastic resistance to torsion bar rotation for suspension system vibrations below a predetermined torsional force. However, when the predetermined torsional force is exceeded, the elastic resistance of the biasing member is overcome and the anchor arm rotates into contact with the stop. Further suspension system vibrations are absorbable by the torsion bar with stiffer resistance to provide a stiffer suspension response. The stiffer suspension is thus provided when required, such as when cornering, while allowing a smooth ride when not required, such as during normal straight travelling.

US Patent:

6648350, Nov 18, 2003

Filed:

May 8, 2000

Appl. No.:

09/567457

Inventors:

Mark Clements - Lapeer MI
Joe Fader - Brighton MI
Chris Keeney - Troy MI
Steve Yollick - Troy MI
Jim Hawkins - Cookeville TN

Assignee:

Meritor Light Vehicle Systems, Inc. - Troy MI

International Classification:

B60G 2105

US Classification:

280124106, 280124152, 280 93511

Abstract:

A suspension system includes a stabilizer bar having an integral ball link directly formed as each end of the stabilizer bar. Because the ball link is integral to the stabilizer bar, there are no bolts, nuts or other fasteners that limit the articulation of the end link relative to the stabilizer bar. The present invention thereby provides greater end link articulation and improved suspension system performance.

US Patent:

6659475, Dec 9, 2003

Filed:

Mar 6, 2001

Appl. No.:

09/800072

Inventors:

Mark Clements - Columbiaville MI
Joe Fader - Brighton MI
Chris Keeney - Troy MI
Steve Yollick - Troy MI
Jim Hawkins - Madison AL

Assignee:

Meritor Light Vehicle, LLC - Troy MI

International Classification:

B60G 2110

US Classification:

280 5508, 280124107, 267188

Abstract:

A suspension system includes a stabilizer bar having decouplable end links. A first segment of each end link is attached to the suspension member while a second segment is attached to the stabilizer bar. The second segment preferably selectively telescopes within the first segment. When the end links are engaged, the stabilizer bar is rigidly linked to the suspension members to provide roll resistance in a known manner. When the end links are disengaged, the second segment telescopes relative to the first segment to decouple motion of the suspension member from the stabilizer bar. The affect of the stabilizer bar is removed and the articulation range of suspension system is increased as it is unhindered by the torsional resistance produced by the stabilizer bar. Activation can be provided automatically through the controller or manually through a switch operated by the driver.