MXPA97006859A - Sold steering axle - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to an axle for a wheeled vehicle, the axle is characterized in that it comprises: a one piece, integral metal shape, including a substantially U-shaped central portion and a pair of spaced apart arms each having a first end extending from each end of the U-shaped central portion, and each arm has a second end opposite the first end, the second ends of each pair of the arms defining between the one-sided mounting of the steering pin, and the central U-shaped portion has an open portion and a closed portion, a first plate member located on and touching the open portion of the U-shaped portion, and a second plate member located low and rubbing the arms apart which extend from each end of the central portion in the form of

Description

SOLDIER STEERING AXLE This request relates to a welded axle for wheeled vehicles. More specifically, this application relates to a non-driven, highly resistant, welded axle for wheeled vehicles.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Typical steering shaft assemblies include a forged I-beam axle, and a pair of steering knuckles rotatably connected to the I-beam by means of steering pins. An example of a forged, non-driven steering shaft is described in U.S. Patent No. 5,403,031. Although such forged shafts provide excellent strength, durability, and a high degree of accuracy of mounting the steering bolt, they are, however, cheap due to their weight and method of manufacture. Steering axles that are not driven, welded, tubular are also known in the art. For example, in U.S. Patent No. 5,429,423 discloses a tubular shaft manufactured in two opposed shaft sections constructed of laminate material formed into channel members. The channel members are of different lengths and are connected together via vertical and horizontal welds. Without REF: 25416 However, the welded shaft described in the '423 patent includes "tensioned" welds along the lower part of the shaft in the region of high stress between the assemblies of the air springs and springs. This is undesirable in view of the known axle load requirements present in the road and automotive transportation industries. In addition, the mounting structures of the steering bolt at either end of the welded shaft of this patent use heavy and expensive forged handles, which must be machined. This forged piece similar to a sleeve is undesirable since it is heavy and expensive to manufacture. An additional problem associated with the axle assembly of this patent is the large number of parts and steps involved in its manufacture. U.S. Patent No. 1,784,856 discloses an axle formed of steel pipe for wheeled vehicles. Since the perforations at either end of the shaft are insufficient and by themselves provide adequate mounting for the ball joints, a cylindrical support tube or sleeve is provided at each end of the shaft with the perforations for receiving the mounting bolts. These pipes are added to the weight of the axle assembly, and represent a disadvantage given the current weight limitations placed on the road transport industry.

In addition, given the tolerance requirements and the number of parts used, the manufacturing method of such axis has its own disadvantages, including those of cost and material. It is evident from the above that there is a need in the art for a non-forged, non-driven, improved steer axle that can be manufactured cheaply using a minimum number of parts and steps, the axle must have a low weight in relation to the current shaft designs. It is evident that there is also the additional need for a highly resistant shaft, which substantially eliminates the need for tension welding in high stress areas, and provides means to allow accurate mounting of the steering pin in a cheap manner. One purpose of this invention is to satisfy the needs in the art described above, as well as other needs which will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of this invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Broadly speaking, this invention meets the needs in the art described above by providing an axle for a wheeled vehicle, comprising: a one-piece integral metal shape including a substantially U-shaped central portion and a pair of separate arms extending from each end of the central U-shaped portion, the central U-shaped portion has an open portion and a closed portion; and a plate member located on and rubbing the open portion of the U-shaped central portion so that the closed portion of the U-shaped central portion is in tension during the operation of the wheeled vehicle. According to a certain preferred embodiment of this invention, the shaft further includes a floating reinforcing plate extending between each pair of spaced arms in the respective steering bolt mounting structures, each of the floating reinforcing plates having an orifice defined therein to retain a steering bolt and is of sufficient strength to provide a bearing for the steering bolt. This invention further satisfies the needs in the art described above by providing an axle assembly for a wheeled vehicle, the axle assembly comprising: first and second opposite side walls, each extending towards a steering bolt mounting structure and defining a cavity between them; a steering bolt mounting plate having a hole that receives the steering bolt defined therein, the mounting plate of the steering bolt rubs the first and second side walls on one side thereof and the receiving orifice is a size to receive the steering bolt in abrasive form to support the steering bolt against lateral movement; A cover plate has a guiding bore defined therein through which the steering bolt to be fed is adapted, the cover plate rubs the first and second side walls on the other side thereof, opposite to the plate. steering pin assembly; and a reinforcing plate having a hole that receives the steering bolt defined therein to receive the steering bolt in an abrasive manner to support the steering bolt against lateral movement, the reinforcing plate is inserted and located in the cavity between the first and second side walls adjacent to the cover plate. This invention further provides a non-driven shaft comprising: an elongated portion extending between the first and second mounting means of the steering bolt; and one of the mounting means of the steering bolt includes first second f, and third plates having therein defined first, second, and third holes, respectively, for receiving a steering bolt. According to certain embodiments of this invention, an axis manufacturing method or shaft assembly defined above is provided. According to still further embodiments, the shaft assembly defined above can be used in conjunction with a suspension shaft suspension system for a truck or the like. This invention will now be described with respect to certain embodiments thereof as illustrated in the following drawings: BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 is a front elevation view of a steering axle assembly according to one embodiment of this invention. Figure 2 is a top elevation view of the steering axle assembly illustrated in Figure 1.

Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the assembly of steering axle of Figure 1, taken along line 3-3. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the welded steering shaft of Figure 1, taken along the line 4r-4. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the welded steering shaft of Figure 1, taken along a line 5-5. Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the steering shaft assembly of Figure 1, taken along a line 6-6. Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view of one of the mounting structures of the steering bolt of the shaft of Figure 1. Figure 8 is a top elevation view of the mounting structure of the axle steering bolt shown in FIG. Figures 1 and 7. Figure 9 is a front elevational view of one of the elongated cover plate members of Figures 1-8 to connect the upper portions of the side walls of the shaft. Figure 10 is a top elevation view of the elongated cover plate member of Figure 9.

Figure 11 is a top elevation view of one of the endplates of the shaft shown in Figures 2, 7, and 8. Figure 12 is a cross-sectional elevation view of the endplate of Figure 11. Figure 13 is a side elevational view of one of the floating reinforcement plates, of Figures 1, 7, and 8, which receive the steering bolt in the form of a bearing. Figure 14 is a top elevation view of the floating reinforcement plate of Figure 13. Figure 15 is a top elevation view of one of the steering pin mounting plates shown in Figures 1, 7, and 8 Figure 16 is a side elevational view of the mounting plate of the steering bolt of Figure 15. Figure 17 is a top elevation view of an integral integral metal shape of Figures 1-8, before formed in the U-shaped member. Figure 18 is a front elevational view of the integral form of Figure 17, after being formed in the U-shaped member with the arms extending therefrom. Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view of the shape of Figure 18.

Figure 20 is a side plan view, partially sectioned, as viewed from the welded steering shaft of Figures 1-19, as used in conjunction with a suspension shaft suspension system for a wheeled vehicle. Figure 21 is a front elevation view of a steering axle assembly according to another embodiment of this invention. Figure 22 is a side view, partially sectioned, seen in Figure 21 of the welded steering axle assembly of Figure 21, as used in conjunction with a lift axle suspension system for a wheeled vehicle. Figure 23 is a top plan view illustrating a first section of the combined air and springs / suspension assembly of the embodiment of Figure 21, prior to bending and forming. Figure 24 is a top plan view illustrating the shape of Figure 23, after being bent around the fold lines illustrated. Figure 25 is a side plan view of Figure 23-24 of the air damper and springs / suspension assembly after forming. Figure 26 is a top plan view of the other half of the combined spring / suspension air cushion assembly for connection to the member of Figure 23-25, prior to its formation. Figure 27 is a side view of the shape of Figure 26, prior to forming. Figure 28 is a front plan view of the member of Figures 26-27, after folding / forming.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN MODALITIES OF THIS INVENTION Referring first to Figure 1 therein is illustrated a steering shaft assembly 1 according to this invention. The steering shaft assembly 1 includes the elongated, tubular, powered, welded shaft 3, having a steering bolt mounting structure 5 at each end thereof for the purpose of accurately mounting and supporting the steering pins 7 and the spherical plain bearings. 9. Due to its completely discussed design below, no welds are required in areas of the axle that are under tension during normal operation of the vehicle, and axle 3 has a weight of approximately half a linkage axis in I, wrought, conventional. Referring now more particularly to Figures 1-ß and 17-19, the shaft 3 includes a metal shape of an integral part 11 (see Figures 17-19) which itself includes vertically oriented side walls 12 and 13, the lower portion 15 connecting the side walls in the substantially central U-shaped area, and the elongated arms 16-19 extending outwardly from the central U-shaped portion 21 towards the mounting structures of the bolt in the direction of The separated arms 16 and 17 extend from one end of the central U-shaped portion 21 towards a mounting structure of the steering bolt 5, while the separated arms 18 and 19 extend from the other end of the portion in U-shape 21 towards the opposite direction bolt mounting structure 5. As will be discussed later, during fabrication, all the weld on the shaft 3, in areas of high stress, is on the compression side of the shaft opposite to the voltage side. For most vehicles using the axes of this invention, when in use, the upper side of the shaft is the side in compression, while the opposite side, the lower side, is in tension. Referring to Figures 1-3, the air cushion assembly members and springs 23, which include the support surfaces 25, and the suspension assemblies 24 are connected (eg welded) to the central U-shaped portion formed integrally 21 in this high stress area of the shaft (i.e. the central portion of the shaft 3 between the air cushion assembly members and springs 23 is most susceptible to stress during certain vehicle operations). Both portions 15 of the U-shaped portion 21 extend longitudinally (of the shaft) beyond the air cushion assembly members and springs 23, and the suspension assemblies 24, to provide shaft strength in this high area. effort between air springs and springs. The shaft 3 has an increased vertical cross section in the mounting areas of the air damper and springs relative to that of the center shaft and the mounting structures of the steering bolt 5 due to the strength requirements associated with this shaft section. This is achieved by providing inclined portions extending from either end of the center section of the shaft. There are no "tension" welds used in this section of the shaft. The upper cover plate member 27 is fixed through the upper part of the open end 53 of the U-shaped portion 21 so that the closed end of the U-shaped portion 21 is in tension during the operation of the vehicle of wheels to which axle assembly 1 is mounted. The upper plate 27 connects the upper ends of the opposite side walls 12 and 13 along the entire length of the axis 3, so that the plate 27 extends between and connects the mounting structures of the opposite direction bolt 5. The plate 27 includes a pair of guide openings or perforations 28 defined therein, one such perforation 28 is located at each end of plate 27 for the purpose of loosely receiving (i.e. in a non-bearing form) a cylindrical steering pin corresponding 7. Because the arms 16-19 are part of the side walls 12-13, the upper plate 27 also connects the upper ends or the sides thereof. The steering bolt mounting plates 29 and 30 also form part of the shaft 3, the plate 29 is mounted to the bottom of the form 11 to connect the lower edges of the arms 16 and 17. The mounting plate of the bolt of Direction 30 is also mounted to the lower part of the form 11, but at the other end of the shaft to connect the lower edges of the arms 18 and 19. Each mounting plate of the steering bolt 29, 30 includes a hole that receives the steering bolt 31 (see Figures 7, 15 and 16) defined therein for the purpose of receiving in a tight manner a corresponding steering bolt 7 in the manner of a bearing for rigidly supporting the bolt 7 against lateral and oscillating movement.

Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the axle assembly 1 taken along the line 3-3 in Figure 1. As shown, the top plate 27 closes the opposite end 51 of the U-shaped portion. in the center of the axis. The support member of the air spring and springs 23 and the suspension assembly of the vehicle 24 are fixed to opposite sides of the U-shaped portion 21. Figure 4 further illustrates the U-shaped cross section of the central portion. 21 of the axle 3, while Figure 6 illustrates the cross section of the axle along the line 6-6 in Figure 1. The openings 33 are provided in the side walls of the suspension assemblies 24 so that the assemblies 24 can be mounted to the suspension of the vehicle or the like. According to certain embodiments of this invention, an assembly for mounting the improved steering pin to the shaft is provided. As discussed above, each steering bolt 7 extends through both a guide opening 28 in the upper plate 27 and a bearing hole 31 in a corresponding steering bolt mounting plate 29, 30 during vehicle operation. Steering bolts 7 typically have a substantially constant diameter over their entire length. In this way, because the diameter of the guide openings 28 is substantially greater than the diameter of the bearing holes 31, the steering pins are received in a tight manner in the holes 31 and loosely in the guide openings 28. Therefore, the openings 28 and 31, in the plates 27 and 29, 30 respectively, can be machined in their respective metal plates before the axle assembly is welded because precise tolerances are not required. Although the accuracy of the steering bolt assembly is critical in all directions, the tolerance requirements for the openings 28 and 31 are very flexible in this design, because the steering bolts 7 can be adjusted through both openings 28 and 31 even if they are slightly offset from each other due to the large size of the opening 28 in relation to the opening 31. Accordingly, the shaft assembly 1 is easier and cheaper to manufacture and assemble. Referring to Figures 5 and 7-8, a steering bolt reinforcement plate 41 is adapted to be inserted into the space or cavity defined between the side walls 12 and 13, at each end of the shaft, adjacent to the plate 27 for provide a secure mounting bolt assembly 7. The reinforcing plate 41 includes the orifice that receives the steering bolt 43 defined therein for the purpose of receiving the steering bolt 7 in a tight manner so as to provide a rigid support thereto against movement. When the steering pin has a substantially constant diameter over its entire length, the diameter of the hole 43 is substantially the same size as the diameter of the hole 31, with both holes 31 and 43 receiving the steering bolt in the manner of a bearing support. In certain embodiments, the steering bolt is forcedly pressed through the holes 31 and 43 when the diameter of the steering bolt is substantially the same as that of the holes 31 and 42. After insertion, the steering bolt it rests strongly against the internal diametrical surfaces of the holes 31 and 43 so that the pin 7 is rigidly retained or secured during the operation of the vehicle. Accordingly, the plates 41 and 29, 30 provide the unique support surfaces for the steering pins 7, so that no sleeves or support tubes are required. Also, the typical key grooves in the steering pins 7 can be eliminated. Referring still to Figures 5 and 7-8, the reinforcement plate or washer 41 is a floating member since it is not integrally formed with any of the top plate 27 or the side walls or arms of the shaft. In this way, after the plates 27 and 30 are welded to the side walls 12, 13 (and the arms), the reinforcement plate 41, with the hole 43 therein, is inserted into the space between the side walls until the hole 43 aligns with the hole 31 within a predetermined tolerance. The floating nature of the plate 41 allows it to be adjusted, after its insertion between the side walls, so that appropriate tolerances can be achieved before welding the plate 41 to the shaft. Subsequently, the steering bolts are pressed through the openings 43 and 31 to be mounted rigidly on the shaft 3. A plate 41 becomes a bearing surface of the steering bolt, the plate 27 can be made of one more material lightweight to maintain costs and lower weight. Another advantage associated with this design is that the holes 28, 31 and 41 can be machined prior to the manufacture of the shaft. Referring still to Figures 7-8, optionally, after the floating reinforcement plate 41 is inserted into the hollow opening of the shaft 3, the corresponding end of the shaft can be covered or closed by welding the end plate 45 thereto so that close the internal cavity. The end plate 45 also functions to support the plate 41 within the axis in a fixed position. As illustrated, each end plate 45 has three separate, flat major surfaces to conform to the rounded ends of the shaft 3 in the mounting structures of the steering bolt 5.

Figures 9 and 10 are front and plan elevation views of the upper plate 27, which includes the guide perforations 28 defined at either end thereof. As you can see, the upper plate 27 is contoured to fit the upper portions of the side walls 12 and 13 across the entire length of the axis 3. The plate 27 can be approximately 0.250 inches thick in certain embodiments, while the radius of the guide perforations 28 may be about 1.0 inches. The angle ß illustrated in Figure 9, defined between the central portion 61 of the plate 27 and the extensions 63, may be about 10 ° -30 ° in certain embodiments, preferably about 19.5 °. However, the angle? it may be about 5 ° -20 °, preferably about 13 °. Figures 11 and 12 are views in upper and transverse elevation, respectively, of an end plate 45. In certain embodiments, the plate 45 is approximately 0.250 inches thick, and the angle? it can be about 30 ° - 50 °, preferably about 38 °. Figures 13 and 14 are front and plan elevation views of the floating reinforcement plate 41 which is adapted to be inserted into the interior of the shaft 3 within the mounting structures of the steering pin to provide additional support for the bolts of the steering bolt. corresponding direction 7. According to certain embodiments, the angle f may be approximately 4 ° -25 °, preferably approximately 12.96 °, so that the contour of the plate 41 conforms to that of the upper plate 27. In addition, plate 41 may be approximately 0.500 inches thick in certain embodiments (substantially thicker than plate 27). The perforation of the orifice 43 may be approximately 1,806-1,808 inches in certain embodiments, while the total length of the plate 41 may be approximately 4,498 inches. Figures 15 and 16 are top and front elevation views, respectively, of the mounting plate of the steering bolt 29, 30 adapted to be welded to the lower edges of the arms to connect them. In certain embodiments, each metal plate 29, 30 may be approximately 0.500 inches thick, and the angle a may be approximately 28.5 °. Thus, the plates 29, 30 and 41 are all substantially of the same thickness according to certain embodiments, with each of these being thicker than the plate 27 to provide the resistance required to handle the loads that the steering pin supports. . In addition, the plates 29 and 30 may each be about 17,433 inches in length in certain embodiments of this invention (flat measurements). The internal diametrical surfaces of the holes 31 and 43 are the surfaces that support the steering pin. Figure 17 is a top elevation view of the metal shape of an integral part 11, as it is flat before the weld. In this way, the sides of the form 11 are bent approximately 90 ° around the lines 51 to form the U-shaped central portion 21 and the arms 16 and 19 extending from the ends thereof. Figure 18 is a front elevational view of the shape 11 after it has been formed and bent. Figure 18, after bending, form 11 includes the central U-shaped portion 21 and the separate arms extending therefrom at each end. Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view of the form 11 of Figure 18 taken in the central portion 21 to illustrate the lower portion 15 of the one-piece member connecting the side walls 12 and 13 at the closed end of the shaped member of U. Although portion 21 is illustrated as having an almost perfect U shape, this is not necessarily the case, since variations of it will suffice. For example, the closed end of the U-shaped design does not need to be rounded, and the walls of the portion 21 need not be perfectly parallel. In other words, clearly, variations of the illustrated U-shaped design were contemplated. Figure 20 is a side view, partially sectioned, of the welded steering shaft assembly 1 of Figures 1-19 which is being used in conjunction with, and connected to, a wheel support lift axle suspension system for a wheeled vehicle (for example truck or trailer). The illustrated suspension system may include at least two unsustainable wheel support suspensions that provide the main means of support for gripping the vehicle path, and the illustrated suspension axle suspension system includes a frame support, arms of upper and lower control having first ends rotatably connected to the frame support at the turning points and second ends connected to the connecting means of the shaft. The suspension of the lift shaft also includes a system to raise and lower the wheels of the suspension and out of the coupling with the road surface. An example of such a suspension can be found in U.S. Patent No. 5,403,031, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. It should be noted that the steering axle 3 can also be used as a front steering axle, or as any other steering axle in a car, trailer or truck. In other embodiments, the shaft 3 can be removed from its position plate and / or reinforcement of Figure 1 and a corresponding guide bore can be located on the bottom or bottom side of the shaft. An exemplary method of manufacturing the shaft assembly 1 is described below. The first step is the formation or stamping of the integral part metallic shape (eg microalloyed steel) 11 shown in Figure 17. In this initial step, the shape 11 defines a single plane and is substantially X-shaped. Subsequently, the side walls 12 and 13 (and arms 16-19) of the shape 11 are each folded up approximately 90 ° about the bend lines 51. , which results in the shape 11 shown in Figures 18-19, which includes a substantially U-shaped central portion 21, and the separated arms 16-17 extending from one end thereof and the spaced apart arms 18. - 19 that extend from the other end of it. After the shape 11 of Figures 18-19 has been bent, the metal cover plate (e.g., microalloyed steel) 27, which includes the guide perforations 28 machined therein (see Figures 8-9), and welded therethrough to shorten the open portion 53 of the U-shaped member 21 such that the plate 27 extends through the entire length of the form 11 connecting the side walls 12 and 13 from a mounting area of the steering bolt to the other. The welding of the plate 27 to the U-shaped member begins at point 60 (see Figure 1), and the direction of displacement of the weld for each side of the plate 27 is directed towards the respective ends of the shaft. Thus, for each side of plate 27, a weld starting at point 60 moves towards one end of the shaft while the other starting at the same point 60 moves towards the other end of the shaft. Subsequently, the mounting plates of the metallic steering bolt (for example of micro-alloyed steel) 29-30, with the holes 31 machined therein (see Figures 15-16), form 11 is attached to connect the lower edges of the bolts. arms (16-19) along the bottom of the opposite plate of the shaft 27. The respective welds connect each plate 29, 39 to the U-shaped form 11 which moves from the end of the shaft towards its center. In certain embodiments, the welds are provided along all the outer edges of the plates 27, 29 and 30 to fix these plates to the shape 11 at the edges of the side walls 12 and 13. After joining the plates 27, 29 and 30 to the shape 11, a metal reinforcement plate (for example micro-alloyed steel) Float 41, with the orifice 43 machined therein (see Figures 7-8), is inserted into the cavity defined between the side walls 12 and 13 in the steering bolt mounting structure 5. After the holes that receive the steering bolts 31 and 43 are aligned in a linear fashion to receive the steering bolt 7, the plate 41 is attached to the shaft so that the upper flat surface of the plate 41 comes into contact with the lower plate surface of the plate 27. In each mounting area of the steering bolt, the three plates 27, 29 (30), and 41 are substantially parallel to each other. As shown in Figure 8, when the holes 31 and 43 are aligned to receive the steering bolt, the hole 43 is not necessarily concentric with the guide bore 28, since the bore 28 has a diameter substantially greater than the diameter of the bore. the holes 31 and 43. After the reinforcement plate 41 has been fixed to the shaft, optionally, an end plate 45 can be welded to each end of the shaft 3 to close the cavity defined by the tubular welded shaft. After the manufacture of the shaft 3, a steering bolt 7 is pressed through the holes 43 and 31 in each steering bolt mounting structure 5, with the end result being that each steering bolt 7 extends through the hole 28 in non-bearing form, and holes 43 and 31 as a tight bearing. The holes 43 and 31 rigidly retain the steering pins 7 against lateral and / or oscillatory movement during the operation of the vehicle in a non-rotating manner. The suspension mounting members 24 and the spring supports 23 can be welded to the shape 11 at any point during the manufacturing process. After being completed and in use, as shown in Figures 1-2, the side walls 12 and 13 are oriented substantially vertical, while the plates 27, 29 and 30 are oriented to extend substantially horizontally. It has been found that the manufacturing process set forth above readily adapts to a wide variety of configurations with minimal tool costs. It is also believed that, using the state of the art of robotic welding, the manufacturing cost could be substantially less than that of the forging of the beam beam in I. According to a typical design of the axle assembly 1, the axle assembly 3, shown in Figure 1, may be approximately 75 inches in end-to-end length, having an "x" dimension of approximately 3.25 inches (see Figures 3-4), a "yi" dimension of approximately 5.0 inches (see Figure 3), a "y2" dimension of approximately 7.20 inches (see Figure 4), and defining a distance of approximately 30.75 inches between the respective centers of air damper and spring assemblies 23. Figures 21-28 illustrate the assembly of welded axes 1 according to another embodiment of this invention. The axis 3 of this embodiment is different from that of the previous embodiment (Figures 1-20), in which a pair of air damper assembly members and combined springs and suspension 91 is provided on the axle. Unlike the embodiment of Figures 1-20, the embodiment of the axle assembly of Figures 21-28 includes members 91, each of which represent a suspension condition and assembly of air damper and springs integrally formed with each other. . Furthermore, in the embodiment of Figure 21-28, the upper plate 27 is inclined upwards in the areas 92 where the mounts (or shaft seats) 91 are attached to the shaft 3. Each of the two mounting areas of seat on axis 92 of axis 3 along the top of axis 3 are inclined upwards in relation to the horizontal and approximately 5 to 50 degrees, preferably about 20 degrees. Figure 22 'illustrates the axle assembly of Figure 21, which is used in conjunction with a suspension shaft suspension system attached to the vehicle frame 92, the suspension includes substantially parallel pivoting arms 93, air cushions 94, bellows of air 81, pivot points 82, and clamping brackets 95. See U.S. Patent No. 5,403,031, for more details with respect to the illustrated axle suspension. Each seat member of the shaft 91 is made of a first section 96 and a second section 97 which are welded together. Figures 23-25 illustrate the first section 96, while Figures 26-28 illustrate the second section 97. Figure 23 illustrates the section or portion of the shaft seat 96 in its stamped or flat shape, before being bent around the bending lines 98. The portion 96 is then bent at right angles around the bending lines 98, resulting in the formed or shaped portion 96 illustrated in Figures 24-25. As illustrated, the formed portion 96 includes a flat ear 99 including the defined openings 101 which allow the axle assembly to be connected to the suspension. From the substantially vertical aligned ear 99, the mounting section of the transversely connected air spring damper 103 extends substantially horizontally and is formed integrally with the vertically aligned section 104. The openings 105 are provided in the mounting section of the shock absorber of air and springs 103 to allow air springs and springs to be mounted to the axle assembly. According to certain preferred embodiments, the distance between the openings 105 can be about 6.20 inches, the vertical distance between the openings 101 about 7.47 inches, the length of the member 103 from 99 to 104 (see Figure 24) of about 5.87. inches, and the horizontal distance (see Figure 23) of the lower opening 101 to the end 107 of the portion 96 of approximately 13.03 inches. Figures 26-27 illustrate the second section 97 of the action member 91, before being welded to the portion 96. Figures 26 and 27 illustrate the portion 97 in planar form after stamping, but before being bent or formed, while Figure 28 illustrates portion 97 after folding / forming. The seat portion of the shaft 97 includes a vertically aligned ear 109 (opposite ear 99) that includes the suspension mounting openings 110 defined therein. Connected to the ear 109 are the cross connection members 111 to be connected to the portion 96 to provide a seat member of the shaft 91 with stability, and the member aligned horizontally 112. Together, members 111 and 112 distribute the load more evenly on the beam of the axis. According to an exemplary embodiment, the width "" of member 112 may be approximately 1.51 inches, while distance "z" of member 111 may be approximately 2.51 inches, and length "1" of member 111 from line of bend 121 to the end of member 111 may be approximately; 5.87 inches. The horizontal distance between the openings 110 may be approximately 7.24 inches according to certain embodiments. As shown in Figure 21, a first portion 26 and a second portion 97 are welded, or otherwise connected, to form each axle seat 91, each seat 91 includes the assembly of air damper and springs and the integrated suspension assembly in a single unit. Each member 91 is then welded to the beam of the shaft and the areas 92 for connecting the suspension. The interconnection of these parts allows a better distribution of the load on the beam of the shaft, as well as an easy manufacture. With respect to the embodiment illustrated in Figures 21-28, the angled transition areas 92 of the plate 27 are cheaper to manufacture and produce less stress increase. Once given the above description many other features, modifications and improvements will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such other features, modifications and improvements are therefore considered part of this invention, the scope which is determined by the following claims. It is noted that in relation to this date, the best method known by the applicant to carry out the aforementioned invention, is the conventional one for the manufacture of the objects to which it relates. Having described the invention as above, property is claimed as contained in the following:

Claims (25)

1. An axle for a wheeled vehicle, the axle is characterized in that it comprises: a metal shape of an integral piece including a central portion substantially U-shaped and a pair of spaced arms extending from each end of the central portion in the form of U, the central U-shaped portion has an open portion and a closed portion; and a plate member located on and rubbing the open portion of the central U-shaped portion, so that the closed portion of the central U-shaped portion is under tension during the operation of the wheeled vehicle.

2. The shaft according to claim 1, characterized in that it further includes a floating reinforcement plate extending between each pair of arms separated in the respective mounting areas of the steering pin, each of the floating reinforcement plates has a defined bore in it to retain a steering bolt and is of sufficient strength to provide a bearing or bearing for the steering bolt.

3. The shaft according to claim 2, characterized in that the shaft is a non-driven steering shaft.

4. The shaft according to claim 3, characterized in that the plate member is elongated and, in addition to connecting the open portion of the U-shaped central portion, extends along and connects each pair of spaced arms, and the member The plate has a guide bore defined therein at each end thereof to receive a steering bolt in the form of no support or bearing.

5. The shaft according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises first and second steering bolt mounting plates, the first steering bolt mounting plate connects a pair of arms opposite the plate member, and the second mounting plate of the steering bolt connects the other pair of arms opposite the plate member, and wherein each of the steering bolt mounting plates includes a hole defined therein for receiving a steering bolt in the manner of a bearing or bearing.

6. The shaft according to claim 5, characterized in that it further includes first and second air damper assembly members and springs fixed to the central U-shaped portion.

7. The shaft according to claim 1, characterized in that each pair of spaced arms extends at an angle from the shape to define the ends receiving the steering pins.

8. A shaft assembly for a wheeled vehicle, the axle assembly is characterized in that it comprises: first and second opposite side walls, each extending towards a steering bolt mounting structure and defining a cavity therebetween; a steering bolt mounting plate having a hole that receives the steering bolt defined therein, the mounting plate of the steering bolt rubs the first and second side walls on one side thereof, and the receiving hole is a size for receiving the steering bolt as a support or bearing to support the steering bolt against lateral movement; a cover plate having a guide bore defined therein through which the steering pin is adapted to be fed, the cover plate rubs the first and second side walls on the other side thereof, opposite the mounting plate of the steering bolt; and a reinforcing plate having a hole that receives the steering bolt defined therein to receive the steering bolt as a bearing support to support the steering bolt against lateral movement, the reinforcing plate is inserted and located in the cavity between the first and second side walls adjacent to the cover plate.

9. The axle assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that the reinforcement plate is placed between the cover plate and the mounting plate of the steering pin, the reinforcement plate is located closer to the cover plate than the plate of mounting the steering bolt and spaced from the steering bolt stiffening plate with at least a substantial portion of such a cavity, placed therebetween.

10. An axle assembly for a wheeled vehicle, the axle assembly is characterized in that it comprises: an elongated tubular shaft including a steering bolt mounting structure at one end thereof for receiving a corresponding vehicle steering bolt; the mounting structure of the steering bolt includes a top plate and a bottom plate, each attached to the side walls of the shaft, the top and bottom plates defining a hollow cavity therebetween in conjunction with the side walls; and wherein the mounting structure of the steering bolt further includes steering bolt reinforcement means for receiving the steering bolt via a hole defined therein, the steering bolt reinforcement means are positioned between the upper plate and the plate. lower so that the steering bolt extends through each of the holes and the openings defined in the upper and lower plates.

11. The shaft assembly according to claim 10, characterized in that the steering bolt reinforcement means includes a plate member having a hole defined therein, the plate member is mounted immediately adjacent to one of the upper and lower plates .

12. The shaft assembly according to claim 11, characterized in that the plate member is located immediately adjacent to the top plate, and the hole in the plate member and the openings in the bottom plate provide the main bearing surfaces for the pin of direction during the operation of the vehicle.

13. The shaft assembly according to claim 10, characterized in that the shaft includes a substantially U-shaped portion of an integrally formed part, located between a pair of steering bolt mounting means, one of the bolt mounting structures of Assembly is located at each end of the elongated shaft.

14. The shaft assembly according to claim 13, characterized in that the upper plate covers the open end of the U-shaped portion at a location between the mounting structure pair of the steering bolt.

15. The shaft assembly according to claim 13, characterized in that the one-piece U-shaped portion integrally formed further includes a pair of spaced arms extending from each end thereof to one of the bolt mounting structures of the shaft. respective direction.

16. A suspension shaft suspension system for a wheeled vehicle, characterized in that it comprises: a frame support; upper and lower control arms having first ends rotatably attached to the frame support at pivot points and second ends attached to an axle connection member; a system for raising and lowering the wheels of a suspension in and out of engagement with the road surface; the shaft connected to the connecting member of the shaft is tubular; and wherein the tubular shaft includes three substantially parallel independent plate members as part of each pair of steering bolt mounting structures for receiving a steering bolt therethrough.

17. The suspension shaft suspension system according to claim 16, characterized in that the three plate members are parallel to each other, and each of the three plate members includes an opening defined therein through which the steering bolt.

18. An axle for a wheeled vehicle, the axle is characterized in that it comprises: an elongated portion extending between the first and second mounting means of the steering pin; and one of the mounting means of the steering bolt for receiving the steering bolt and includes first, second and third substantially parallel plates having therein defined first, second and third holes, respectively, for receiving the steering bolt.

19. The axis in accordance with the claim 18, characterized in that the first and second orifices are smaller in diameter than the third orifice, and wherein the first and second orifices act as a support surface for supporting the steering bolt.

20. The axis in accordance with the claim 19, characterized in that the first plate is vertically separated from the second and third plates to define a cavity therebetween.

21. The axis in accordance with the claim 20, characterized in that the first, second and third plates are parallel to each other.

22. The axis according to claim 21, characterized in that the second and third plates are in contact with each other.

23. The shaft according to claim 1, characterized in that it further includes first and second axle seat members, each axle seat member includes a suspension mounting portion and an air damper mounting portion and springs.

24. The shaft according to claim 23, characterized in that the axle seat members include a first portion and a second portion connected to each other, each of the first and second portions include an ear member that includes a mounting opening pair. of suspension defined in it.

25. The shaft according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises first and second air damper assembly members and springs fixed to the axle each of the first and second air damper assembly members and springs fixed to the axle along the a portion thereof that is angled upwards in relation to the horizontal of approximately 5-50 degrees.