Trailer and trailer suspension system

Abstract

The invention relates to a trailer and a trailer suspension system. The trailer includes a trailer frame and a trailer suspension including first and second suspension assemblies and a pair of shafts. Each of the first and second suspension assemblies includes a first spring including a first spring end and a second spring end and a second spring including a third spring end and a fourth spring end. The second spring end of the first spring is positioned adjacent to the third spring end of the second spring, and the second spring end and the third spring end are disposed between the first spring end and the fourth spring end. The second spring end is rotatable about a first axis of rotation fixed relative to the trailer frame. The third spring end is rotatable about a second axis of rotation fixed relative to the trailer frame. The first spring end and the fourth spring end of the second spring are movable relative to the trailer frame.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to suspension systems, and more particularly, to tandem axle trailer suspension systems. Background Art

[0002] This section provides background information related to the present disclosure and is not necessarily prior art.

[0003] A vehicle may be used to tow a trailer. The trailer may be attached to the rear end of the vehicle. More specifically, the vehicle may include a trailer hitch disposed at the rear end of the vehicle, and the trailer may include a coupler disposed at the front end of the trailer. The coupler of the trailer may be connected to the trailer hitch of the vehicle to allow the vehicle to tow the trailer. When towed by a vehicle, some trailers may tend to be pulled in a lateral direction relative to the vehicle, resulting in disproportionate wear on one or more tires of the trailer. In addition, the trailer may experience roughness from the road surface, and may transmit bumps and shocks to the vehicle, resulting in poor ride quality. The present disclosure provides a tandem axle trailer suspension that improves tire alignment and ride quality of the trailer for an improved towing experience. Summary of the invention

[0004] This section provides a general summary of the disclosure, and is not a comprehensive disclosure of its full scope or all of its features.

[0005] In one form, the present disclosure provides a trailer, which includes a trailer frame and a trailer suspension. The trailer suspension includes a first suspension assembly mounted to the trailer frame, a second suspension assembly mounted to the trailer frame, and a pair of shafts extending between the first suspension assembly and the second suspension assembly. Each of the first suspension assembly and the second suspension assembly includes a first spring and a second spring, the first spring includes a first spring end and a second spring end, and the second spring includes a third spring end and a fourth spring end. The first spring of the first suspension assembly and the second suspension assembly supports the first shaft of the pair of shafts, and the second spring of the first suspension assembly and the second suspension assembly supports the second shaft of the pair of shafts. The second spring end of the first spring is positioned adjacent to the third spring end of the second spring, and the second spring end and the third spring end are arranged between the first spring end and the fourth spring end. The second spring end of the first spring can rotate around a first rotation axis fixed relative to the trailer frame. The third spring end of the second spring can rotate around a second rotation axis fixed relative to the trailer frame. The first spring end of the first spring and the fourth spring end of the second spring can move relative to the trailer frame.

[0006] In some configurations of the trailer of the above paragraph, the second spring end of the first spring includes a first eye end connector, and the first eye end connector has a first aperture aligned with the first rotation axis. The third spring end of the second spring includes a second eye end connector, and the second eye end connector has a second aperture aligned with the second rotation axis.

[0007] In some configurations of the trailer of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the first suspension assembly and the second suspension assembly include a positioning bracket. The positioning bracket includes a top wall fixedly mounted to the trailer frame and opposing side walls extending from the top wall. The first eye-end connector and the second eye-end connector are positioned between the side walls of the positioning bracket and are rotatably attached to the side walls of the positioning bracket.

[0008] In some configurations of the trailer of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the first suspension assembly and the second suspension assembly include a first locating bracket and a second locating bracket. The first locating bracket and the second locating bracket include a top wall fixedly mounted to the trailer frame and opposing side walls extending from the top wall. The first eye-end connector is positioned between the side walls of the first locating bracket and is rotatably attached to the side walls of the first locating bracket, and the second eye-end connector is positioned between the side walls of the second locating bracket and is rotatably attached to the side walls of the second locating bracket.

[0009] In some configurations of the trailer of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the first suspension assembly and the second suspension assembly include a first shackle link and a second shackle link. The first shackle link includes a first link end rotatably attached to the trailer frame and a second link end rotatably attached to the first spring end of the first spring. The second shackle link includes a third link end rotatably attached to the trailer frame and a fourth link end rotatably attached to the fourth spring end of the second spring.

[0010] In some configurations of the trailer of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the first suspension assembly and the second suspension assembly include a first mechanical fastener and a second mechanical fastener. The first mechanical fastener extends through the second link end of the first shackle link and the first spring end of the first spring. The first spring end is capable of rotating about a third rotation axis axially aligned with the first mechanical fastener. The second mechanical fastener extends through the fourth link end of the second shackle link and the fourth spring end of the second spring. The fourth spring end is capable of rotating about a fourth rotation axis axially aligned with the second mechanical fastener.

[0011] In some configurations of the trailer of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the first suspension assembly and the second suspension assembly include a first sliding mount and a second sliding mount. The first spring end of the first spring is slidably received in the first sliding mount, and the fourth spring end of the second spring is slidably received in the second sliding mount.

[0012] In some configurations of the trailer of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the first sliding mount and the second sliding mount include a top wall fixedly mounted to the trailer frame and opposing side walls extending from the top wall. The first spring end of the first spring is positioned between the side walls of the first sliding mount, and the fourth spring end of the second spring is positioned between the side walls of the second sliding mount.

[0013] In some configurations of the trailer of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the first mechanical fastener and the second mechanical fastener extend through opposing side walls of each of the first sliding mount and the second sliding mount. The first spring end of the first spring is positioned between the first mechanical fastener and the second mechanical fastener of the first sliding mount and is slidably movable relative to the first mechanical fastener and the second mechanical fastener of the first sliding mount. The fourth spring end of the second spring is positioned between the first mechanical fastener and the second mechanical fastener of the second sliding mount and is slidably movable relative to the first mechanical fastener and the second mechanical fastener of the second sliding mount.

[0014] In some configurations of the trailer of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the first spring end of the first spring and the fourth spring end of the second spring include a sliding end connector, and the sliding end connector is a lip formed in a curved shape.

[0015] In another form, the present disclosure provides a trailer suspension system including a first spring and a second spring. The first spring includes a first spring end and a second spring end. The second spring includes a third spring end and a fourth spring end. The second spring end of the first spring is positioned adjacent to the third spring end of the second spring, and the second spring end and the third spring end are disposed between the first spring end and the fourth spring end. The second spring end of the first spring is rotatable about a first rotation axis, and the third spring end of the second spring is rotatable about a second rotation axis. The first rotation axis and the second rotation axis are fixed relative to each other, and the first spring end of the first spring and the fourth spring end of the second spring are movable relative to the first rotation axis and the second rotation axis.

[0016] In some configurations of the trailer suspension system of the above paragraphs, the second spring end of the first spring includes a first eye end connector, and the first eye end connector has a first aperture aligned with the first rotational axis. The third spring end of the second spring includes a second eye end connector, and the second eye end connector has a second aperture aligned with the second rotational axis.

[0017] In some configurations of the trailer suspension system of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the trailer suspension system includes a positioning bracket having a top wall and opposing side walls extending from the top wall. The first eye-end connector and the second eye-end connector are positioned between the side walls of the positioning bracket and are rotatably attached to the side walls of the positioning bracket.

[0018] In some configurations of the trailer suspension system of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the trailer suspension system includes a first locating bracket and a second locating bracket, the first locating bracket and the second locating bracket having a top wall and opposing side walls extending from the top wall. The first eye-end connector is positioned between and rotatably attached to the side walls of the first locating bracket, and the second eye-end connector is positioned between and rotatably attached to the side walls of the second locating bracket.

[0019] In some configurations of the trailer suspension system of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the trailer suspension system includes a first shackle link and a second shackle link. The first shackle link includes a first link end and a second link end rotatably attached to a first spring end of a first spring. The second shackle link includes a third link end and a fourth link end rotatably attached to a fourth spring end of a second spring.

[0020] In some configurations of the trailer suspension system of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the first mechanical fastener extends through the second link end of the first shackle link and the first spring end of the first spring. The first spring end is rotatable about a third rotation axis axially aligned with the first mechanical fastener. The second mechanical fastener extends through the fourth link end of the second shackle link and the fourth spring end of the second spring. The fourth spring end is rotatable about a fourth rotation axis axially aligned with the second mechanical fastener. The third rotation axis and the fourth rotation axis are movable relative to the first rotation axis and the second rotation axis.

[0021] In some configurations of the trailer suspension system of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the trailer suspension system includes a first sliding mount and a second sliding mount. The first sliding mount receives a first spring end of a first spring. The second sliding mount receives a fourth spring end of a second spring. The first spring end of the first spring is slidably movable relative to the first sliding mount, and the fourth spring end of the second spring is slidably movable relative to the second sliding mount.

[0022] In some configurations of the trailer suspension system of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the first sliding mount and the second sliding mount include a top wall and opposing side walls extending from the top wall. The first spring end of the first spring is positioned between the side walls of the first sliding mount, and the fourth spring end of the second spring is positioned between the side walls of the second sliding mount.

[0023] In some configurations of the trailer suspension system of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the first mechanical fastener and the second mechanical fastener extend through each of the first sliding mount and the second sliding mount. The first spring end of the first spring is positioned between the first mechanical fastener and the second mechanical fastener of the first sliding mount and is slidably movable relative to the first mechanical fastener and the second mechanical fastener of the first sliding mount. The fourth spring end of the second spring is positioned between the first mechanical fastener and the second mechanical fastener of the second sliding mount and is slidably movable relative to the first mechanical fastener and the second mechanical fastener of the second sliding mount.

[0024] In some configurations of the trailer suspension system of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the first spring end of the first spring and the fourth spring end of the second spring include a sliding end connector. The sliding end connector is a lip formed into a curved shape.

[0025] Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein.The description and specific examples in this summary are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected embodiments and not all possible implementations, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a trailer having a trailer suspension system according to the principles of the present disclosure;

[0028] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Another perspective view of the trailer;

[0029] Figure 3 is a side view of a portion of a trailer including a trailer suspension system;

[0030] Figure 4 It is a three-dimensional diagram of the trailer suspension system;

[0031] Figure 5 It is an exploded view of the trailer suspension system;

[0032] Figure 6 is a side view of an alternative trailer suspension system according to the principles of the present disclosure;

[0033] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A perspective view of the trailer suspension system;

[0034] Figure 8 yes Figure 6 to Figure 7 Exploded view of the trailer suspension system;

[0035] Fig. 9 is a side view of another alternative trailer suspension system in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

[0036] Fig.10 yes Fig. 9 A perspective view of a trailer suspension system; and

[0037] Fig.11 yes Figures 9 and 10 Exploded view of the trailer suspension system.

[0038] Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] Example embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0040] Example embodiments are provided so that the disclosure will be thorough and the scope will be fully conveyed to those skilled in the art. Many specific details such as examples of specific components, devices and methods are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not be employed, and that example embodiments may be implemented in many different forms, and none should be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure. In some example embodiments, well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well-known techniques are not described in detail.

[0041] The terms used herein are only for the purpose of describing specific example embodiments, and are not intended to be restrictive. As used herein, the singular forms "one", "a kind of" and "the" may also be intended to include plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms "comprise", "comprises", "includes" and "have" are inclusive, and therefore specify the existence of stated features, integral bodies, steps, operations, elements and / or parts, but do not exclude the existence or addition of one or more other features, integral bodies, steps, operations, elements, parts and / or their groups. The method steps, processes and operations described herein should not be interpreted as necessarily requiring them to be performed in the specific order discussed or described, unless specifically identified as the order of execution. It should also be understood that additional or alternative steps may be adopted.

[0042] When an element or layer is referred to as "on another element or layer", "engaged to", "connected to" or "coupled to" another element or layer, the element or layer may be directly on another element or layer, directly engaged, directly connected or directly coupled to another element or layer, or there may be an intermediate element or layer. In contrast, when an element is referred to as "directly on another element or layer", "directly engaged to", "directly connected to" or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there may be no intermediate element or layer. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements (e.g., "between" and "directly between", "adjacent" and "directly adjacent", etc.) should be interpreted in the same manner. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0043] Although the terms first, second, third, etc. can be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms can only be used to distinguish an element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as "first", "second" and other numerical terms do not imply order or sequence when used in this article unless clearly indicated by the context. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the example embodiments, the first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below can be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer or section.

[0044] For ease of description, spatially relative terms such as "inside", "outside", "below", "below", "lower", "above", "upper", etc. may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another element or feature as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Spatially relative terms may be intended to cover different orientations of the device in use or operation other than the orientation depicted in the accompanying drawings. For example, if the device in the accompanying drawings is turned over, the elements described as "below" or "below" other elements or features will then be oriented to be "above" the other elements or features. Therefore, the example term "below" can cover both the above and below orientations. The device can be oriented in other ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatially relative descriptors used herein can be interpreted accordingly.

[0045] Reference Figures 1 to 5 , a trailer 10 is provided, which may include a trailer bed 12, a trailer connecting beam 14, a trailer suspension system 16, and a set of wheels 18. In the illustrated example, the trailer 10 is a flatbed trailer. However, the trailer 10 may be another type of trailer, such as an enclosure trailer or a dump trailer. The trailer 10 may be attached to a vehicle to allow the vehicle to tow the trailer.

[0046] like Figure 1 to Figure 2 As shown in FIG. 1 , the trailer bed 12 may include a front end 24 and a rear end 26 opposite the front end 24. The trailer bed 12 may include a first lateral side 28 and a second lateral side 30 opposite the first lateral side 28. The trailer bed 12 may include a top side 32 ( Figure 1 ) and a bottom side 34 opposite to the top side 32 ( Figure 2 ). The trailer bed 12 may include a trailer platform 36 disposed at the top side 32 and a trailer frame 38 disposed at the bottom side 34 and supporting the trailer platform 36. In some examples, the trailer bed 12 may include railings and / or walls extending from the trailer platform and cooperating to define an enclosed or partially enclosed space. The trailer frame 38 may include a support frame 40 and a plurality of beams 42. The support frame 40 may extend around the periphery of the trailer platform 36. The plurality of beams 42 may each extend between the first lateral side 28 and the second lateral side 30 of the trailer bed 12. In the illustrated example, the plurality of beams 42 include five beams. However, the plurality of beams 42 may include any suitable number of beams.

[0047] The trailer connection beam 14 may be disposed at the front end 24 of the trailer bed 12. The trailer connection beam 14 may include a front end 48 and a rear end 50 opposite the front end 48. A coupler 52 may be disposed at the front end 48 of the trailer connection beam 14. The coupler 52 may be removably coupled to a trailer hitch (including, for example, a trailer ball and a ball mount) of the vehicle. The rear end 50 of the trailer connection beam 14 may be attached to the trailer frame 38 at the bottom side 34 of the trailer bed 12. The trailer connection beam 14 extends outwardly from the trailer bed 12, and more specifically extends outwardly from the front end 24 of the trailer bed 12. The trailer connection beam 14 may include a first portion 54 and a second portion 56. The first portion 54 may have a triangular shape and may be disposed at the front end 48 of the trailer connection beam 14. The first portion 54 may be at least partially disposed in front of the front end 24 of the trailer bed 12. The second portion 56 may have a rectangular shape and may be disposed at the rear end 50 of the trailer connecting beam 14. The second portion 56 may be disposed below the trailer bed 12. However, the trailer connecting beam 14 may have another suitable shape and another suitable arrangement.

[0048] like Figure 2 , the trailer suspension system 16 can be disposed at the bottom side 34 of the trailer bed 12 and can be mounted to the trailer frame 38. The trailer suspension system 16 can be positioned between the front end 24 and the rear end 26 of the trailer bed 12. More specifically, the trailer suspension system 16 can be positioned between the rear end 50 of the trailer connecting beam 14 and the rear end 26 of the trailer bed 12.

[0049] The trailer suspension system 16 may include a plurality of suspension assemblies 62 and a plurality of axles 66. A first suspension assembly of the suspension assemblies 62 may be disposed at the first lateral side 28 of the trailer bed 12. A second suspension assembly of the suspension assemblies 62 may be disposed at the second lateral side 30 of the trailer bed 12. The axles 66 may each extend between a first suspension assembly and a second suspension assembly of the plurality of suspension assemblies 62. The wheels 18 are mounted on the axles 66. In the illustrated example, the trailer suspension system 16 supports two axles 66 and four wheels 18. However, the trailer suspension system 16 may be configured to support any suitable number of axles 66 and any suitable number of wheels 18.

[0050] like Figure 3 to Figure 4As shown in FIG. 1 , each of the suspension assemblies 62 may include a plurality of springs 70, a plurality of shackle link assemblies 74, and a positioning bracket 76. Each of the springs 70 may include a first spring end 78 and a second spring end 80 opposite the first spring end 78. The first spring of the springs 70 and the second spring of the springs 70 may be arranged in series. In other words, the second spring end 80 of the first spring of the springs 70 may be positioned adjacent to the first spring end 78 of the second spring of the springs 70. The first spring and the second spring of the springs 70 may be aligned along a plane 86. The plane 86 may be parallel to the respective lateral sides 28, 30 of the trailer bed 12 and extend through the respective lateral sides 28, 30 of the trailer bed 12. In other words, the first spring and the second spring of the springs 70 may be laterally aligned with the respective lateral sides 28, 30 of the trailer bed 12.

[0051] The first spring end 78 of the first spring of the springs 70 may be attached to the trailer frame 38 using a first shackle linkage assembly of the plurality of shackle linkage assemblies 74. The second spring end 80 of the first spring of the springs 70 and the first spring end 78 of the second spring of the springs 70 may be attached to the trailer frame 38 using the retaining bracket 76. The second spring end 80 of the second spring of the springs 70 may be attached to the trailer frame 38 using a second shackle linkage assembly of the plurality of shackle linkage assemblies 74.

[0052] like Figure 5 As shown in , each spring in the spring 70 may include a leaf spring stack having a first leaf spring 96, a second leaf spring 98, and a third leaf spring 100. Although the leaf spring stack of the spring 70 is shown in the figure as having three leaf springs, in other configurations, the leaf spring stack may have any number of leaf springs. The leaf springs 96, 98, 100 of the spring 70 may be attached to each other (in a stacked configuration) and to a corresponding one of the shafts 66. The first leaf spring 96 may include a first connector 92 and a second connector 94. The first connector 92 and the second connector 94 may be eye-end connectors. For example, the connectors 92, 94 may be formed by rolling the opposite ends of the first leaf spring 96 into a cylindrical piece having orifices 102, 104.

[0053] The first leaf spring 96 may have a first length extending from the first connector 92 to the second connector 94. The second leaf spring 98 may be disposed below the first leaf spring 96. The second leaf spring 98 may have a second length measured between opposite ends of the second leaf spring 98. The second length may be less than the first length. The third leaf spring 100 may be disposed below the second leaf spring 98. The third leaf spring 100 may have a third length measured between opposite ends of the third leaf spring 100. The third length may be less than the second length. The spring 70 may be formed in a curved shape as shown or in another suitable shape.

[0054] Support plate 106 ( Figure 5 ) can be attached to the first leaf spring 96 and positioned opposite the second leaf spring 98. An aperture 108 can extend transversely through the support plate 106 and the first leaf spring 96, the second leaf spring 98, and the third leaf spring 100 of the spring 70. The aperture 108 can be positioned equidistantly between the first spring end 78 and the second spring end 80 of the spring 70. A mechanical fastener (e.g., a bolt, a screw, a rivet, etc.) can extend through the aperture 108 of the spring 70 and a corresponding one of the shafts 66. In some examples, a retaining bracket can be wrapped around a corresponding one of the shafts 66 and the spring 70 to further secure the first one of the shafts 66 and the spring 70 together. It will be appreciated that the shaft 66 can be secured to the spring 70 in any suitable manner.

[0055] Continue to refer to Figures 3 to 5 , a plurality of shackle link assemblies 74 may be attached to the trailer frame 38 and spaced apart along respective lateral sides 28, 30 of the trailer bed 12. A first shackle link assembly of the plurality of shackle link assemblies 74 may be attached to a first connector 92 of a first spring of the springs 70. A second shackle link assembly of the plurality of shackle link assemblies 74 may be attached to a second connector 94 of a second spring of the springs 70.

[0056] Each shackle linkage assembly 74 may include a mount 126 and a pair of links 128. The mount 126 may be fixedly attached to the trailer frame 38. In some examples, the mount 126 may be integrally formed with the trailer frame 38. The mount 126 may include a top wall 130, a first side wall 132, and a second side wall 134. The top wall 130 of the mount 126 may be secured to the trailer frame 38. The first side wall 132 and the second side wall 134 may extend from opposite lateral sides of the top wall 130 such that the top wall 130, the first side wall 132, and the second side wall 134 cooperate to define a U-shape. The first side wall 132 may be positioned outside the second side wall 134. An aperture 136 may extend through the first side wall 132 and the second side wall 134 of the mount 126.

[0057] Each of the links 128 can be attached to a corresponding one of the side walls 132, 134 of the mount 126. For example, a first one of the links 128 can be positioned outside of the mount 126 and attached to the first side wall 132 of the mount 126. A second one of the links 128 can be positioned inside of the mount 126 and attached to the second side wall 134 of the mount 126. Each of the pair of links 128 can include a first end 138 (i.e., a first link end) and a second end 140 (i.e., a second link end) opposite the first end 138. A first aperture 142 extends through the first end 138, and a second aperture 144 extends through the second end 140 of the pair of links 128. The first aperture 142 can be aligned with the aperture 136 of the mount 126. The first end 138 of the link 128 can be attached to the mount 126 using a first mechanical fastener 146 (e.g., a bolt, screw, rivet, etc.). More specifically, the first mechanical fastener 146 can extend through a first aperture 142 of a first link in the link 128, an aperture 136 of the mount 126, and a first aperture 142 of a second link in the link 128. The first end 138 of the link 128 can be rotatably movable about the first mechanical fastener 146 relative to the mount 126.

[0058] The second aperture 144 can be aligned with the corresponding connector 92, 94 of the spring 70. The second end 140 of each link of the pair of links 128 can be attached to the spring 70 using a second mechanical fastener 148 (e.g., a bolt, screw, rivet, etc.). The second mechanical fastener 148 can extend through the second aperture 144 of the link 128 and the corresponding aperture 102, 104 of the connector 92, 94. More specifically, the first spring end 78 of the first spring of the spring 70 can be rotatably moved relative to the pair of links 128 about a first rotation axis 150. The first rotation axis 150 extends axially through the first connector 92 and the second mechanical fastener 148 of the first spring of the spring 70. The first rotation axis 150 and therefore the first spring end 78 of the first spring of the spring 70 can move relative to the trailer frame 38 when the pair of links 128 are rotatably moved. The second spring end 80 of the second spring of the spring 70 can be rotatably moved relative to the pair of links 128 about the second rotation axis 152. The second rotation axis 152 extends axially through the second connector 94 and the second mechanical fastener 148. The second rotation axis 152, and therefore the second spring end 80 of the second spring 70, is movable relative to the trailer frame 38 when the pair of links 128 are rotationally movable.

[0059] Continue to refer to Figures 3 to 5, the positioning bracket 76 can be equidistantly disposed between the shackle link assemblies 74. The positioning bracket 76 can be aligned with each of the shackle link assemblies 74 along the second axis 154. The axis 154 can be disposed on the plane 86. The positioning bracket 76 can be fixedly attached to the trailer frame 38. In some examples, the positioning bracket 76 can be integrally formed with the trailer frame 38. The positioning bracket 76 can include a front end 156 and a rear end 158 opposite the front end 156. The positioning bracket 76 can include a top wall 160, a first side wall 162, and a second side wall 164. Each of the top wall 160, the first side wall 162, and the second side wall 164 can extend between the front end 156 and the rear end 158. The top wall 160 of the positioning bracket 76 can be fastened to the trailer frame 38. The first side wall 162 and the second side wall 164 of the positioning bracket 76 can extend from opposite lateral sides of the top wall 160 so that the top wall 160, the first side wall 162 and the second side wall 164 cooperate to define a U-shape. The first side wall 162 can be positioned outboard of the second side wall 164. A recess 166 can be provided in the positioning bracket 76, extending from the top wall 160 and extending into the first side wall 162 and the second side wall 164. The recess 166 can be sized, shaped and positioned so that the plurality of beams 42 ( Figure 2 ) extends through recess 166.

[0060] Each of the first side wall 162 and the second side wall 164 of the positioning bracket 76 may include a plurality of apertures 168. Each aperture in the plurality of apertures 168 of the first side wall 162 may be aligned with a corresponding aperture in the plurality of apertures 168 of the second side wall 164. In the illustrated example, the plurality of apertures may each include a first group 170 apertures in the plurality of apertures 168 and a second group 172 apertures in the plurality of apertures 168. The first group 170 may be disposed between the front end 156 and the recess 166 of the positioning bracket 76. The second group 172 may be disposed between the recess 166 and the rear end 158 of the positioning bracket 76. The first group 170 and the second group 172 may be spaced apart from each other. Each of the first group 170 and the second group 172 may include four apertures arranged in a two-by-two matrix. However, the plurality of apertures 168 may include any suitable number of apertures and have another suitable arrangement.

[0061] The second spring end 80 of the first spring in the spring 70 and the first spring end 78 of the second spring in the spring 70 can be received in the positioning bracket 76 and attached to the positioning bracket 76. The second spring end 80 of the first spring in the spring 70 can be disposed between the first side wall 162 and the second side wall 164 of the positioning bracket 76 and positioned near the front end 156 of the positioning bracket 76. The second spring end 80 of the first spring in the spring 70 can be attached to the positioning bracket 76 using a first mechanical fastener 174 (e.g., a bolt, a screw, a rivet, etc.). The first mechanical fastener 174 can extend through one of the plurality of apertures 168 of the first side wall 162 of the positioning bracket 76, the second aperture 104 of the second connector 94 of the first spring in the spring 70, and one of the plurality of apertures 168 of the second side wall 164 of the positioning bracket 76. The second spring end 80 of the first spring in the spring 70 can be rotatably movable about a rotation axis 178. The rotation axis 178 extends axially through the second connector 94 and the first mechanical fastener 174. The rotation axis 178 can be fixed relative to the positioning bracket 76 and the trailer frame 38. More specifically, the second spring end 80 of the first of the springs 70 can be restricted from horizontal movement (e.g., movement along an axis between the front end 24 and the rear end 26 of the trailer bed 12), lateral movement (e.g., movement along an axis between the first lateral side 28 and the second lateral side 30 of the trailer bed 12), and vertical movement (e.g., movement along an axis between the top side 32 and the bottom side 34 of the trailer bed 12) relative to the trailer frame 38.

[0062] The first spring end 78 of the second spring in the spring 70 can be disposed between the first side wall 162 and the second side wall 164 of the positioning bracket 76 and can be positioned near the rear end 158 of the positioning bracket 76. The first spring end 82 of the second spring in the spring 70 can be attached to the positioning bracket 76 using a second mechanical fastener 176 (e.g., a bolt, a screw, a rivet, etc.). The second mechanical fastener 176 can extend through one of the plurality of apertures 168 of the first side wall 162 of the positioning bracket 76, the first aperture 102 of the first connector 92 of the second spring in the spring 70, and one of the plurality of apertures 168 of the second side wall 164 of the positioning bracket 76. The first spring end 78 of the second spring in the spring 70 is rotatably movable about an axis of rotation 180. The axis of rotation 180 extends axially through the first connector 92 and the second mechanical fastener 176. The axis of rotation 180 is fixed relative to the positioning bracket 76 and the trailer frame 38. More specifically, the first spring end 78 of the second spring in the spring 70 can be restricted from horizontal movement relative to the trailer frame 38 (e.g., movement along an axis between the front end 24 and the rear end 26 of the trailer bed 12), lateral movement (e.g., movement along an axis between the first lateral side 28 and the second lateral side 30 of the trailer bed 12), and vertical movement (e.g., movement along an axis between the top side 32 and the bottom side 34 of the trailer bed 12).

[0063] Back to Figure 1 to Figure 2 , a set of wheels 18 may include a pair of front wheels 182 and a pair of rear wheels 184. The front wheels 182 may be attached to opposite ends of a first one of the shafts 66. More specifically, the first one of the shafts 66 may include a first end 186 and a second end 188 opposite the first end 186. The first end 186 of the first one of the shafts 66 may be attached to a first one of the springs 70 of a first one of the suspension assemblies 62 and a first one of the front wheels 182. The second end 188 of the first one of the shafts 66 may be attached to a first one of the springs 70 of a second one of the suspension assemblies 62 and a second one of the front wheels 182.

[0064] The rear wheel 184 is attached to the opposite end of the second one of the shafts 66. More specifically, the second one of the shafts 66 extends between a first end 190 and a second end 192, the second end 192 being opposite the first end 190. The first end 190 of the second one of the shafts 66 may be attached to a second one of the springs 70 of the first one of the suspension assemblies 62 and a first one of the rear wheels 184. The second end 192 of the second one of the shafts 66 may be attached to a second one of the springs 70 of the second one of the suspension assemblies 64 and a second one of the rear wheels 184.

[0065] Advantageously, the trailer suspension system 16 allows a first one of the suspension assemblies 62 to be aligned with the first lateral side 28 of the trailer bed 12 and a second one of the suspension assemblies 62 to be aligned with the second lateral side 30 of the trailer bed 12. More specifically, the locating bracket 76 provides a fixed mounting location for the second spring end 80 of the first one of the springs 70 and the first spring end 78 of the second one of the springs 70. By locating the spring 70 between the first side wall 162 and the second side wall 164 of the locating bracket 76 and mounting the spring 70 to one of the fixed mounting locations, the first and second one of the springs 70 are aligned with the plane 86. The alignment of the first and second one of the springs 70 with the plane 86 allows the pair of axles 66, and therefore the set of wheels 18, to be aligned. As a result, the trailer 10 will not swing or be pulled in a lateral direction relative to the vehicle towing the trailer 10.

[0066] In addition, by mounting the first and second springs of the springs 70 to the positioning bracket 76, the first spring of the springs 70 is independent of the second spring of the springs 70. In other words, the movement of the first spring of the springs 70 does not drive the movement of the second spring of the springs 70 (and the movement of the second spring of the springs 70 does not drive the movement of the first spring of the springs 70) because the positioning bracket 76 does not transmit the movement or deflection of one of the springs 70 to the other spring of the springs 70. When one of the front wheels 182 and the rear wheels 184 of the trailer 10 overcomes an obstacle in the road (e.g., a bump, a pothole, an object, etc.), the corresponding spring 70 dampens the movement of the corresponding wheel 182, 184 without causing the trailer bed 12 to sway (e.g., the front end 24 of the trailer bed 12 is lowered and the rear end 26 is raised, and the rear end 26 of the trailer bed 12 is lowered and the front end 24 is raised). Therefore, the coupler 52 of the trailer 10 does not forcefully contact the trailer hitch of the vehicle when the trailer overcomes an obstacle. This provides improved ride quality for the trailer 10 and eliminates the need for additional shock absorbers or other damping devices.

[0067] Figures 6 to 8 Another example of one of a plurality of suspension assemblies 262 is depicted that may be incorporated into the trailer suspension system 16 of the trailer 10 in place of the plurality of suspension assemblies 62 .

[0068] Each of the suspension assemblies 262 may include a plurality of springs 270, a plurality of slide mounts 274, and a locating bracket 276. The locating bracket 276 is the same as or substantially similar to the locating bracket 76. Therefore, the locating bracket 276 will not be described in detail.

[0069] Each of the springs 270 may include a first spring end 278 and a second spring end 280 opposite the first spring end 278. The first and second springs of the springs 270 may be arranged in series. More specifically, the second spring end 280 of the first spring of the springs 270 may be positioned adjacent to the second spring end 280 of the second spring of the springs 270. The first and second springs of the springs 272 may be aligned along a plane 286. The plane 286 may be aligned with the corresponding lateral side 28, 30 ( Figure 1 to Figure 2 ) are parallel to and extend across respective lateral sides 28 , 30 of the trailer bed 12 .

[0070] First spring ends 278 of the first and second springs of springs 270 may be attached to trailer frame 38 using sliding mounts 274. Second spring ends 280 of the first and second springs of springs 270 may be attached to trailer frame 38 using retaining brackets 276.

[0071] like Figure 8 As shown in FIG. 1 , each of the springs 270 may include a leaf spring stack having a first leaf spring 296, a second leaf spring 298, and a third leaf spring 300. Although the leaf spring stack of the spring 270 is shown in the figure as having three leaf springs, in other configurations, the leaf spring stack may have any number of leaf springs. The leaf springs 296, 298, 300 of the spring 270 may be attached to each other (in a stacked configuration) and to the shaft 66 ( Figures 2 to 3 ) in a corresponding one of the axes. The first leaf spring 296 may include a lip 292 and a connector 294. The lip 292 may define a sliding end connector. For example, the lip 292 may be formed by curling the first spring end 278 of the first leaf spring 296 so that the lip 292 is formed into a curved shape. The connector 294 may be an eye end connector. For example, the connector 294 may be formed by curling the second spring end 280 of the first leaf spring 296 into a cylindrical piece having an orifice 302.

[0072] The first leaf spring 296 may have a first length extending from the lip 292 to the connector 294. The second leaf spring 298 may be disposed below the first leaf spring 296. The second leaf spring 298 may have a second length measured between opposite ends of the second leaf spring 298. The second length may be less than the first length. The third leaf spring 300 may be disposed below the second leaf spring 298. The third leaf spring 300 may have a third length measured between opposite ends of the third leaf spring 300. The third length may be less than the second length. The spring 270 may be formed into a curved shape as shown or another suitable shape.

[0073] The support plate 306 can be attached to the first leaf spring 296 and positioned opposite the second leaf spring 298. The aperture 308 can extend transversely through the support plate 306 and the first leaf spring 296, the second leaf spring 298, and the third leaf spring 300 of the spring 270. The aperture 308 can be positioned equidistantly between the first spring end 278 and the second spring end 280 of the spring 270. Mechanical fasteners (e.g., bolts, screws, rivets, etc.) can extend through the aperture 308 of the spring 270 and the corresponding one of the shafts 66. In some examples, a retaining bracket can be wrapped around the corresponding one of the shafts 66 and the spring 270 to further secure the first one of the shafts 66 and the spring 270 together. It will be understood that the shaft 66 can be secured to the spring 270 in any suitable manner.

[0074] A plurality of sliding mounts 274 can be mounted to the trailer frame 38 and spaced apart along respective lateral sides 28, 30 of the trailer bed 12. A first sliding mount of the sliding mounts 274 can receive a lip 292 of a first spring of the springs 270. A second sliding mount of the sliding mounts 274 can receive a lip 292 of a second spring of the springs 270. Each of the sliding mounts 274 can include a top wall 330, a first side wall 332, and a second side wall 334. The top wall 330 can be fixedly mounted to the trailer frame 38. The first side wall 332 and the second side wall 334 can extend from opposite lateral sides of the top wall 330 such that the top wall 330, the first side wall 332, and the second side wall 334 cooperate to define a U-shape. The first side wall 332 can be positioned outside the second side wall 334. The first aperture 342 and the second aperture 344 can extend through the first side wall 332 and the second side wall 334 of the slide mount 274. A first mechanical fastener 346 (e.g., a bolt, a screw, a rivet, etc.) can extend through the first aperture 342. In the illustrated example, a spacer 350 can be disposed between the first aperture 342 of the first side wall 332 and the second side wall 334. The first mechanical fastener 346 can extend through the spacer 350. A second mechanical fastener 352 (e.g., a bolt, a screw, a rivet, etc.) can extend through the second aperture 344. The lip 292 of the spring 270 can be disposed between the first mechanical fastener 346 and the second mechanical fastener 352. The lip 292 can be slidably movable relative to the first mechanical fastener 346 and the second mechanical fastener 352.

[0075] Continue to refer to Figures 6 to 8, the positioning bracket 276 can be equidistantly disposed between the first and second sliding mounts of the sliding mounts 274. The positioning bracket 276 can be aligned with each of the sliding mounts 274 along the second axis 354. The second axis 354 can be disposed on the plane 286. The second spring end 280 of the spring 270 can be received in the positioning bracket 276 and attached to the positioning bracket 276. More specifically, the first mechanical fastener 374 (e.g., a bolt, a screw, a rivet, etc.) can extend through the connector 294 of the first spring of the spring 270 and the positioning bracket 276. The second spring end 280 of the first spring of the spring 270 can be rotatably movable about the rotation axis 378. The rotation axis 378 extends axially through the connector 294 of the first spring of the spring 270 and the first mechanical fastener 374. The rotation axis 378 can be fixed relative to the positioning bracket 276 and the trailer frame 38. More specifically, the second spring end 280 of the first spring in the springs 270 can be restricted from horizontal movement relative to the trailer frame 38 (e.g., movement along an axis between the front end 24 and the rear end 26 of the trailer bed 12), lateral movement (e.g., movement along an axis between the first lateral side 28 and the second lateral side 30 of the trailer bed 12), and vertical movement (e.g., movement along an axis between the top side 32 and the bottom side 34 of the trailer bed 12).

[0076] A second mechanical fastener 376 (e.g., a bolt, screw, rivet, etc.) may extend through the connector 294 of the second spring in the spring 270 and the positioning bracket 276. The second spring end 280 of the second spring in the spring 270 is rotatably movable about the rotation axis 380. The rotation axis 380 extends axially through the connector 294 of the second spring in the spring 270 and the second mechanical fastener 374. The rotation axis 380 may be fixed relative to the positioning bracket 276 and the trailer frame 38. More specifically, the second spring end 280 of the second spring in the spring 270 may be restricted from horizontal movement (e.g., movement along an axis between the front end 24 and the rear end 26 of the trailer bed 12), lateral movement (e.g., movement along an axis between the first lateral side 28 and the second lateral side 30 of the trailer bed 12), and vertical movement (e.g., movement along an axis between the top side 32 and the bottom side 34 of the trailer bed 12) relative to the trailer frame 38.

[0077] The advantages of easy alignment of spring 270 and improved ride quality described with respect to suspension assembly 62 may also apply to suspension assembly 262 .

[0078] Figures 9 to 11Another example of one suspension assembly of a plurality of suspension assemblies 462 is depicted that may be incorporated into the trailer suspension system 16 of the trailer 10 in place of the plurality of suspension assemblies 62 , 262 .

[0079] Each of the suspension assemblies 462 may include a plurality of springs 470, a plurality of shackle link assemblies 474, and a plurality of locating brackets 476. The plurality of springs 470 may be the same or substantially similar to the plurality of springs 70 of the trailer suspension system 16. The plurality of shackle link assemblies 474 may be the same or substantially similar to the pair of shackle link assemblies 74 of the trailer suspension system 16. Therefore, the plurality of springs 470 and the plurality of shackle link assemblies 474 will not be described in detail.

[0080] The first and second springs of the springs 470 may be aligned along a plane 486. The plane 486 may be aligned with the corresponding lateral sides 28, 30 ( Figure 1 to Figure 2 ) are parallel and extend through the respective lateral sides 28, 30 of the trailer bed 12. The plurality of shackle link assemblies 474 and the plurality of positioning brackets 476 can be aligned along the second axis 488. The first spring end 478 of the spring 470 can be rotatably attached to one of the shackle link assemblies 474. The second spring end 480 of the spring 470 can be rotatably attached to the positioning bracket 476.

[0081] A plurality of locating brackets 476 may be mounted to the trailer frame 38. A first locating bracket of the locating brackets 476 may be positioned adjacent to a second locating bracket of the locating brackets 476. The locating brackets 476 may be spaced apart along the axis 522. A second spring end 480 of a first spring of the springs 470 may be attached to a first locating bracket of the locating brackets 476. A second spring end 480 of a second spring of the springs 470 may be attached to a second locating bracket of the locating brackets 476.

[0082] Each of the positioning brackets 476 may include a top wall 530, a first side wall 532, and a second side wall 534. The top wall 530 of the positioning bracket 476 may be mounted to the trailer frame 38 ( Figure 1 to Figure 2). The first side wall 532 and the second side wall 534 of the positioning bracket 476 can extend from opposite lateral sides of the top wall 530, so that the top wall 530, the first side wall 532 and the second side wall 534 cooperate to define a U-shape. The first side wall 532 can be positioned outside the second side wall 534. The aperture 536 can extend through the first side wall 532 and the second side wall 534 of the positioning bracket 476. The first mechanical fastener 546 (e.g., a bolt, a screw, a rivet, etc.) can extend through the aperture 536 of the first positioning bracket in the positioning bracket 476 and the second spring end 480 of the first spring in the spring 470. The second spring end 480 of the first spring in the spring 470 can be rotatably moved around the first rotation axis 550. The second mechanical fastener 548 (e.g., a bolt, a screw, a rivet, etc.) can extend through the aperture 536 of the second positioning bracket in the positioning bracket 476 and the second spring end 480 of the second spring in the spring 470. The second spring end 480 of the second spring in the spring 470 is rotatably movable about the second rotation axis 552. The rotation axes 550, 552 extend axially through the second spring end 80 and the mechanical fasteners 546, 548, respectively. The rotation axes 550, 552 can be fixed relative to the positioning bracket 476 and the trailer frame 38. More specifically, the second spring end 480 of the spring 470 can be restricted from horizontal movement (e.g., movement along the axis between the front end 24 and the rear end 26 of the trailer bed 12), lateral movement (e.g., movement along the axis between the first lateral side 28 and the second lateral side 30 of the trailer bed 12), and vertical movement (e.g., movement along the axis between the top side 32 and the bottom side 34 of the trailer bed 12) relative to the trailer frame 38.

[0083] The advantages of easy alignment of the spring 470 and improved ride quality described with respect to the suspension assembly 62 , 262 may also apply to the suspension assembly 462 .

[0084] The foregoing description of the embodiments has been provided for the purpose of illustration and description. The foregoing description is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present disclosure. The individual elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to the particular embodiment, but, even if not specifically shown or described, the individual elements or features of a particular embodiment are interchangeable and can be used in a selected embodiment where applicable. The individual elements or features of a particular embodiment can also be changed in many ways. Such variations should not be considered as departing from the present disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A trailer, comprising: trailer frame; as well as A trailer suspension comprising a first suspension assembly mounted to the trailer frame, a second suspension assembly mounted to the trailer frame, and a pair of axles extending between the first suspension assembly and the second suspension assembly, wherein: Each of the first suspension assembly and the second suspension assembly includes a first spring and a second spring, the first spring includes a first spring end and a second spring end, the second spring includes a third spring end and a fourth spring end, The first spring of the first suspension assembly and the second suspension assembly supports a first shaft of the pair of shafts, and the second spring of the first suspension assembly and the second suspension assembly supports a second shaft of the pair of shafts, The second spring end of the first spring is positioned adjacent to the third spring end of the second spring, wherein the second spring end and the third spring end are disposed between the first spring end and the fourth spring end, The second spring end of the first spring is rotatable about a first rotation axis that is fixed relative to the trailer frame, The third spring end of the second spring is rotatable about a second rotational axis that is fixed relative to the trailer frame, and The first spring end of the first spring and the fourth spring end of the second spring are movable relative to the trailer frame.

2. The trailer according to claim 1, wherein: The second spring end of the first spring includes a first eye end connector, wherein the first eye end connector has a first aperture aligned with the first axis of rotation, and The third spring end of the second spring includes a second eye end connector, wherein the second eye end connector has a second aperture aligned with the second axis of rotation.

3. The trailer according to claim 2, wherein: The first suspension assembly and the second suspension assembly include a positioning bracket, The positioning bracket includes a top wall fixedly mounted to the trailer frame and opposing side walls extending from the top wall, and The first eye-end connector and the second eye-end connector are positioned between and rotatably attached to the side walls of the positioning bracket.

4. The trailer of claim 2, wherein: The first suspension assembly and the second suspension assembly include a first positioning bracket and a second positioning bracket, The first and second locating brackets include a top wall fixedly mounted to the trailer frame and opposing side walls extending from the top wall, and The first eye-end connector is positioned between and rotatably attached to the side walls of the first positioning bracket, and the second eye-end connector is positioned between and rotatably attached to the side walls of the second positioning bracket.

5. The trailer of claim 1, wherein: The first suspension assembly and the second suspension assembly include a first shackle link and a second shackle link, The first shackle link includes a first link end rotatably attached to the trailer frame and a second link end rotatably attached to the first spring end of the first spring, and The second shackle link includes a third link end rotatably attached to the trailer frame and a fourth link end rotatably attached to the fourth spring end of the second spring.

6. The trailer of claim 5, wherein: The first suspension assembly and the second suspension assembly include a first mechanical fastener and a second mechanical fastener, the first mechanical fastener extending through the second link end of the first shackle link and the first spring end of the first spring, wherein the first spring end is rotatable about a third rotational axis axially aligned with the first mechanical fastener, The second mechanical fastener extends through the fourth link end of the second shackle link and the fourth spring end of the second spring, wherein the fourth spring end is rotatable about a fourth rotational axis axially aligned with the second mechanical fastener.

7. The trailer of claim 1, wherein: The first suspension assembly and the second suspension assembly include a first sliding mount and a second sliding mount, and The first spring end of the first spring is slidably received in the first slide mount, and the fourth spring end of the second spring is slidably received in the second slide mount.

8. The trailer of claim 7, wherein: The first and second sliding mounts include a top wall fixedly mounted to the trailer frame and opposing side walls extending from the top wall, and The first spring end of the first spring is positioned between the side walls of the first slide mount, and the fourth spring end of the second spring is positioned between the side walls of the second slide mount.

9. The trailer of claim 8, wherein: first and second mechanical fasteners extend through opposing side walls of each of the first and second slide mounts, The first spring end of the first spring is positioned between the first mechanical fastener and the second mechanical fastener of the first sliding mount and is slidably movable relative to the first mechanical fastener and the second mechanical fastener of the first sliding mount, and The fourth spring end of the second spring is positioned between the first and second mechanical fasteners of the second slide mount and is slidably movable relative to the first and second mechanical fasteners of the second slide mount.

10. The trailer of claim 9, wherein: The first spring end of the first spring and the fourth spring end of the second spring include sliding end connectors, and The sliding end connector is a lip formed in a curved shape.

11. A trailer suspension system comprising: a first spring including a first spring end and a second spring end; as well as a second spring, the second spring comprising a third spring end and a fourth spring end, in: the second spring end of the first spring is positioned adjacent to the third spring end of the second spring, and the second spring end and the third spring end are disposed between the first spring end and the fourth spring end, The second spring end of the first spring is rotatable about a first rotation axis, and the third spring end of the second spring is rotatable about a second rotation axis, and The first and second rotational axes are fixed relative to each other, and the first spring end of the first spring and the fourth spring end of the second spring are movable relative to the first and second rotational axes.

12. The trailer suspension system of claim 11, wherein: The second spring end of the first spring includes a first eye end connector, wherein the first eye end connector has a first aperture aligned with the first axis of rotation, and The third spring end of the second spring includes a second eye end connector, wherein the second eye end connector has a second aperture aligned with the second axis of rotation.

13. The trailer suspension system of claim 12, further comprising: a positioning bracket, the positioning bracket comprising a top wall and opposite side walls extending from the top wall, Wherein, the first eye-end connector and the second eye-end connector are positioned between the side walls of the positioning bracket and are rotatably attached to the side walls of the positioning bracket.

14. The trailer suspension system of claim 12, further comprising: a first positioning bracket and a second positioning bracket, wherein the first positioning bracket and the second positioning bracket each include a top wall and opposite side walls extending from the top wall, Wherein, the first eye-end connector is positioned between the side walls of the first positioning bracket and is rotatably attached to the side walls of the first positioning bracket, and the second eye-end connector is positioned between the side walls of the second positioning bracket and is rotatably attached to the side walls of the second positioning bracket.

15. The trailer suspension system of claim 11, further comprising: a first shackle link including a first link end and a second link end rotatably attached to the first spring end of the first spring; as well as A second shackle link includes a third link end and a fourth link end rotatably attached to the fourth spring end of the second spring.

16. The trailer suspension system of claim 15, wherein: a first mechanical fastener extending through the second link end of the first shackle link and the first spring end of the first spring, wherein the first spring end is rotatable about a third rotational axis axially aligned with the first mechanical fastener, a second mechanical fastener extending through the fourth link end of the second shackle link and the fourth spring end of the second spring, wherein the fourth spring end is rotatable about a fourth rotational axis axially aligned with the second mechanical fastener, and The third rotation axis and the fourth rotation axis are movable relative to the first rotation axis and the second rotation axis.

17. The trailer suspension system of claim 11, further comprising: a first sliding mount that receives the first spring end of the first spring; as well as a second sliding mount receiving the fourth spring end of the second spring, The first spring end of the first spring is slidably movable relative to the first sliding mounting member, and the fourth spring end of the second spring is slidably movable relative to the second sliding mounting member.

18. The trailer suspension system of claim 17, wherein: The first sliding mount and the second sliding mount include a top wall and opposing side walls extending from the top wall, and The first spring end of the first spring is positioned between the side walls of the first slide mount, and the fourth spring end of the second spring is positioned between the side walls of the second slide mount.

19. The trailer suspension system of claim 18, wherein: first and second mechanical fasteners extend through the first and second slide mounts, The first spring end of the first spring is positioned between the first mechanical fastener and the second mechanical fastener of the first sliding mount and is slidably movable relative to the first mechanical fastener and the second mechanical fastener of the first sliding mount, and The fourth spring end of the second spring is positioned between the first and second mechanical fasteners of the second slide mount and is slidably movable relative to the first and second mechanical fasteners of the second slide mount.

20. The trailer suspension system of claim 19, wherein: The first spring end of the first spring and the fourth spring end of the second spring each include a sliding end connector, wherein the sliding end connector is a lip formed in a curved shape.

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