Vehicle suspension balancing assembly
The vehicle suspension assembly addresses instability by using a central mount, elastic restoring elements, and triple link units to align wheels, ensuring stability and balance during airborne maneuvers.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- FLASH MOTORS LTD
- Filing Date
- 2024-06-19
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-30
AI Technical Summary
Existing vehicle suspension systems become unstable when wheels are not in contact with the ground, leading to potential loss of balance and instability during maneuvers, especially for four-wheel vehicles like scooters.
A vehicle suspension assembly with a central mount, elastic restoring elements, and vertically rotatable triple link units that maintain wheel alignment and stability by using push rods and tiltable arms to counteract tilting, ensuring the wheels remain aligned and stable even when airborne.
The suspension assembly maintains horizontal stability and balance by aligning wheels, reducing the risk of instability and improving rider control during maneuvers.
Smart Images

Figure 2026521640000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present invention relates to the field of vehicle suspension assemblies. More particularly, the present invention relates to a vehicle suspension balancing assembly.
Background Art
[0002] A vehicle suspension system includes a tire, tire air, a spring, a shock absorber, and a linkage that connects the vehicle body and the wheel and enables relative movement between the two. The purpose of the suspension system is to support the weight of the vehicle and control the ride comfort, handling performance, and overall dynamics during driving, thereby enhancing the overall stability and rideability of the vehicle.
[0003] The suspension system also enables the stabilization of the vehicle during steering and interlocks the chassis and the wheels during driving. The shock absorber is an important element that contributes to keeping the wheels in contact with the road surface (especially when crossing road steps or depressions) and making the ride comfort of the vehicle smooth and relaxed.
[0004] The shock absorber is particularly efficient when the wheel is in contact with the ground and pushes the wheel back to the ground to maintain stability. However, in some parts of the suspension system of a four-wheel vehicle, when the vehicle is in the air (for example, a four-wheel scooter crossing a ramp), the front and rear suspension assemblies become unstable, and the pair of front wheels and / or the pair of rear wheels may tilt sideways because they are not in contact with the ground that supports the load. As a result, it becomes unstable in the air and during landing, and in order to balance while remaining on the vehicle, it is required that the driver be skilled in the air and especially during landing (for example, it may require physical efforts such as tilting the body so that the driver does not fall). In the case of an unskilled driver (and in some cases, even a skilled driver), the instability when the vehicle lands on the ground may cause the driver to lose balance and fall off the vehicle.
[0005] Therefore, the present invention aims to provide a method and means for stabilizing a vehicle suspension assembly.
[0006] Furthermore, the present invention aims to provide methods and means for keeping a suspension system in a substantially horizontal and stable state when a vehicle is in the air.
[0007] Other objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent in the description of the invention as set forth herein. [Overview of the project]
[0008] The present invention relates to a vehicle suspension assembly that assists the rider in maintaining balance while the vehicle is in motion, such as a scooter, motorcycle, motorized bicycle or scooter, and other similar means of transport, into which the vehicle suspension assembly of the present invention is incorporated.
[0009] The present invention Central mount and An elastic restoring element positioned on the central mount, Two side wheel hub assemblies, Two push rods, Two horizontal upper connecting rods, Horizontal impact absorption section, Two upper control arm units, each connected to the upper part of the corresponding side wheel hub assembly among the two side wheel hub assemblies, Two lower control arm units, each connected to the lower part of the corresponding side wheel hub assembly among the two side wheel hub assemblies, Each a. The corresponding side of the horizontal shock absorber, b. One of the two horizontal upper connecting rods, and c. The first end of the corresponding push rod among the two push rods, Two vertically rotatable triple link units are connected to it, A vehicle suspension assembly comprising, The second ends of the two push rods are each connected to the lower part of the corresponding side wheel hub assembly of the two side wheel hub assemblies, Each of the two horizontal upper connecting rods passes through the corresponding upper control arm unit of the two upper control arm units. Each of the two vertically rotatable triple linking units is equipped with a horizontally tiltable arm extending inward, The edge of the horizontally tiltable arm is positioned above the elastic restoring element and is engageable with the elastic restoring element. Regarding vehicle suspension assemblies.
[0010] In some embodiments, the central mount comprises two outwardly extending oblique upper arms and two oblique lower arms, The elastic restoring element is positioned on the central mount between the two diagonally upper arms.
[0011] In some embodiments, the two upper control arm units each comprise a front upper control arm and a rear upper control arm, both connected by a hinge joint connection to the upper part of the corresponding side wheel hub assembly of the two side wheel hub assemblies. Each of the two lower control arm units comprises a front lower control arm and a rear lower control arm, both connected by a hinge joint to the lower part of the corresponding side wheel hub assembly among the two side wheel hub assemblies.
[0012] In some embodiments, the two horizontal upper connecting rods are, Corresponding front upper control arm, Corresponding rear upper control arm, The corresponding opening in the triple-connecting unit, and The corresponding upper diagonal arm among the two upper diagonal arms passes through it.
[0013] In some embodiments, the suspension assembly each has a corresponding front lower control arm, a corresponding rear lower control arm, and a corresponding lower diagonal arm among the two lower diagonal arms, and includes two horizontal lower connecting rods that pass through it.
[0014] In some embodiments, each of the two vertically rotatable triple link units is connected to the corresponding side of the horizontal shock absorber at the upper part of the vertically rotatable triple link unit, is connected to a corresponding horizontal upper connecting rod at the inner part of the vertically rotatable triple link unit, and is connected to a corresponding push rod at the outer part of the vertically rotatable triple link unit.
[0015] In some embodiments, each of the two vertically rotatable triple link units is connected to the corresponding side of the horizontal shock absorber by a hinge joint connection, and each of the two vertically rotatable triple link units is connected to the corresponding push rod by a hinge joint connection.
[0016] In some embodiments, each of the horizontal tilting arms has a thick edge at its inner edge.
[0017] In some embodiments, the thick edge has a PU coating.
[0018] The thick edge is in the shape of a ball.
[0019] In some embodiments, the edge of the horizontal tilting arm is configured to engage the elastic restoring element when the two vertically rotatable triple connection units rotate in the corresponding directions.
[0020] In some embodiments, the suspension assembly (as described above and in its corresponding detailed description hereinafter) comprises i. a steering unit comprising a steering shaft; and ii. a standing platform; and iii. a tilting mechanism (as described herein); and further comprises the tilting mechanism is configured such that rotation of the steering shaft causes the standing platform to tilt.
[0021] The present invention i. comprises a steering unit with a steering shaft; and ii. a standing platform; and iii. a tilting mechanism; and is provided with the tilting mechanism is configured such that rotation of the steering shaft causes the standing platform to tilt, relates to a vehicle suspension assembly.
[0022] In some embodiments, the steering unit comprises a steering handlebar fixedly connected to the steering shaft.
[0023] In some embodiments, the rotation of the steering handlebar is linearly proportional to the tilt of the standing platform.
[0024] In some embodiments, the suspension assembly i. comprises two side wheel hub assemblies rotatable about a vertical axis; and ii. Two side steering rods, b. One end of each side steering rod is functionally connected to the steering shaft, c. The other end of each side steering rod is connected to the corresponding side wheel hub assembly of the two side wheel hub assemblies. iii. Two inclined rods, d. One end of each inclined rod is connected to the corresponding side wheel hub assembly of the two side wheel hub assemblies, e. The other end of each inclined rod is connected to the inclined mechanism. It is equipped with.
[0025] In some embodiments, the two side wheel hub assemblies each include a rearward-extending rear flange, The two side steering rods and the two inclined rods are connected to the two side wheel hub assemblies at the rear flange.
[0026] In some embodiments, the vehicle suspension assembly includes a steering surface connected to the steering shaft, The two side steering rods are each connected to the steering surface.
[0027] In some embodiments, the connection of the two side steering rods to the steering surface and the two side wheel hub assemblies, and the connection of the two tilting rods to the tilting mechanism and the two side wheel hub assemblies, are by hinge joints, U-joints, or ball joints.
[0028] In some embodiments, the tilting mechanism is i. A central mount fixed and connected to the rear support section, ii. A platform support column that engages with and connects to the rear support portion and extends rearward from there, Equipped with, The standing platform surface is connected to and mounted on the platform support column.
[0029] In some embodiments, the tilting mechanism is i. A central mount fixed and connected to the rear support section, ii. A platform support that engages with the rear support portion and extends rearward from there, iii. The bottom support connected to the rear end of the rear support section, Equipped with, The front edge of the platform support column is rested on the bottom support column. The standing platform surface is connected to and mounted on the platform support column.
[0030] In some embodiments, the bottom support comprises two pin elements extending downward therefrom, Each of the two inclined rods is connected to the inclined mechanism at the corresponding pin element of the two pin elements, thereby forming a hinge joint that allows each of the two inclined rods to rotate around the corresponding pin element.
[0031] The present invention relates to a vehicle comprising a suspension assembly relating to any one of the vehicle suspension assemblies described herein.
[0032] In some embodiments, the vehicle is a scooter. [Brief explanation of the drawing]
[0033] The present invention is illustrated in the accompanying drawings as an example, in which similar reference numerals consistently indicate similar elements.
[0034] [Figure 1] This is a front view of the 1988 model. [Figure 2] A perspective view of one embodiment of Islam. [Figure 3]This figure shows a vertical triple-connection unit according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4A] This is a perspective view of an assembly for a set of rear wheels according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4B] Figure 4A is a front view of the assembly. [Figure 5] This is a front exploded view of a portion of a suspension assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] This is a perspective exploded view of a part of a suspension assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] This is a top exploded view of a portion of a suspension assembly relating to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] This is a perspective view of an embodiment of a suspension assembly according to one aspect of the present invention. [Figure 9] This is a diagram showing one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] This is a bottom view of a suspension assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] This is a diagram showing the standing platform surface of one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] This is a view of the standing platform surface of one embodiment of the present invention, seen from below. [Figure 13] This is a rear view of a tilting mechanism according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] This is a rear view of a tilting mechanism according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] This figure shows an example of a platform surface that is inclined at a certain angle. [Figure 16] This figure shows an example of a platform surface that is inclined at a different angle. [Modes for carrying out the invention]
[0035] The present invention relates to a vehicle suspension assembly comprising a substantially horizontal shock absorber (a single shock absorber) used to absorb shocks from two side wheels. The suspension assembly comprises an alignment retaining mechanism configured to hold the side wheels substantially aligned with each other and to hold the assembly in a non-tilted position.
[0036] The suspension assembly of the present invention is particularly useful for four-wheeled scooters, in which a first suspension assembly of the present invention is combined with the two front wheels of the scooter, and a second suspension assembly of the present invention is combined with the two rear wheels of the scooter. The present invention also relates to a four-wheeled scooter equipped with these suspension assemblies.
[0037] As those skilled in the art will know, the assembly and system of the present invention will be useful for all vehicles, including two-wheeled and four-wheeled vehicles, and will also be applicable to smaller personal vehicles such as "minicars" and appropriate scooters, including small vehicles for people with disabilities.
[0038] In some embodiments, the present invention particularly, • Central mount and, • An elastic restoring element positioned on the central mount, • Two side wheel hub assemblies, • Two push rods, • Two horizontal upper connecting rods, • Horizontal shock absorption section, • Two upper control arm units, each connected to the upper part of the corresponding side wheel hub assembly among the two side wheel hub assemblies, • Two lower control arm units, each connected to the lower part of the corresponding side wheel hub assembly among the two side wheel hub assemblies, Each of them, a. The corresponding side of the horizontal shock absorber, b. One of the two horizontal upper connecting rods, and c. The first end of the corresponding push rod among the two push rods, Two vertically rotatable triple link units are connected to it, A vehicle suspension assembly comprising, The second ends of the two push rods are each connected to the lower part of the corresponding side wheel hub assembly of the two side wheel hub assemblies, Each of the two horizontal upper connecting rods passes through the corresponding upper control arm unit of the two upper control arm units. Each of the two vertically rotatable triple linking units is equipped with a horizontally tiltable arm extending inward, The edge of the horizontally tiltable arm is positioned above the elastic restoring element and is engageable with the elastic restoring element. Regarding vehicle suspension assemblies.
[0039] Non-limiting examples of the elements of the vehicle suspension assembly of the present invention will be further described below, but those skilled in the art will understand the boundaries of each element based on the provided description and drawings.
[0040] In some embodiments, certain terms further described below herein should not be construed as limiting the invention.
[0041] Figure 1 is a front view of a suspension assembly 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The suspension assembly 10 comprises two side wheel hub assemblies. In some embodiments, a wheel hub assembly refers to a structural element for mounting a wheel to a vehicle. An example of a wheel hub assembly 12 is shown in Figure 1 (wheel not shown). A control arm unit comprises connecting elements (e.g., rods, bars) for connecting different members of the suspension assembly. The wheel hub assembly 12 is connected to an upper control arm unit 20 at the top and to a lower control arm unit 21 at the bottom. Figure 2 is a perspective view of the suspension assembly 10.
[0042] Each upper control arm unit 20 comprises, in some embodiments, a front upper control arm 20f and a rear upper control arm 20r, and each lower control arm unit 21 comprises, in some embodiments, a front lower control arm 21f and a rear lower control arm 21r.
[0043] The suspension assembly of the present invention is equipped with a central mount, which in particular refers to a structure to which other elements of the assembly can be connected.
[0044] The suspension assembly 10 includes a central mount with surfaces for connecting to various components of the suspension assembly. Figure 1 shows a mount 30 connected to (or being part of) the vehicle frame or chassis. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the central mount 30 is "X" shaped with four oblique arms, namely two oblique upper arms 31 and two oblique lower arms 32. The oblique arms extend outward. Here, generally, the outward direction refers to the direction away from the center of the central mount 30, and the inward direction refers to the direction toward the center of the central mount 30. Therefore, the two oblique upper arms 31 extend outward toward the upper outward side of the assembly 10, and the two oblique lower arms 32 extend outward toward the lower outward side of the assembly 10 (inclination means between the vertical axis and the horizontal axis of the assembly 10).
[0045] In some embodiments, the connection between the control arm and the wheel hub assembly, and the connection between the control arm and the central mount, can utilize various joint connections (e.g., hinge joints, U-joints, spherical joints). In some embodiments, each front upper control arm 20f is connected at one end to the upper part of the corresponding wheel hub assembly 12 by a hinge joint connection, and the other end is connected to an upper connecting rod 31r that forms a hinge joint connection, and the front upper control arm 20f is rotatable about the central axis of the upper connecting rod 31r. The upper connecting rod 31r is positioned substantially horizontally and substantially in the fore-aft direction (front-rear direction, used interchangeably herein), and connects by passing through the corresponding front upper control arm 20f (near the inner edge of the arm 20f) that forms the hinge joint.
[0046] Each rear upper control arm 20r is connected at one end to the upper part of the corresponding wheel hub assembly 12 by a hinge joint connection, and at the other end to an upper connecting rod 31r which forms a hinge joint connection, and the rear upper control arm 20r is rotatable about the central axis of the upper connecting rod 31r. The upper connecting rod 31r is positioned substantially horizontally and substantially longitudinally and connects by passing through the corresponding rear upper control arm 20r (near the inner edge of the arm 20r) which forms a hinge joint.
[0047] Each upper connecting rod 31r passes through an opening in the corresponding (near its own edge) within the diagonal upper arm 31 so that the front upper control arm 20f and the rear upper control arm 20r are fixed to the diagonal upper arm 31.
[0048] Each front lower control arm 21f is connected at one end to the lower part of the corresponding wheel hub assembly 12 by a hinge joint connection, and at the other end to a lower connecting rod 32r which forms a hinge joint connection, and the front lower control arm 21f is rotatable about the central axis of the lower connecting rod 32r. The lower connecting rod 32r is positioned substantially horizontally and substantially longitudinally and connects by passing through the corresponding front lower control arm 21f (near the inner edge of the arm 21f) which forms a hinge joint.
[0049] Each rear lower control arm 21r is connected at one end to the lower part of the corresponding wheel hub assembly 12 by a hinge joint connection, and at the other end to a lower connecting rod 32r which forms a hinge joint connection, and the rear lower control arm 21r is rotatable about the central axis of the lower connecting rod 32r. The lower connecting rod 32r is positioned substantially horizontally and substantially longitudinally and connects by passing through the corresponding rear lower control arm 21r (near the inner edge of the arm 21r) which forms a hinge joint.
[0050] Each lower connecting rod 32r passes through an opening in the corresponding (near its own edge) within the diagonal lower arm 32 so that the front lower control arm 21f and the rear lower control arm 21r are fixed to the diagonal lower arm 32.
[0051] The suspension assembly 10 comprises two vertically rotatable triple link units. Each vertically rotatable triple link unit is a linking member having a surface or other adaptation that facilitates linking / connection, for example, by having a fixing point on or within it. Figures 1 and 2 show the suspension assembly 10 comprising two vertically rotatable triple link units 50. Each vertical triple link unit 50 has three points for connecting to three separate elements. Figure 3 shows both triple link units 50. Each triple link unit 50 has three openings 50a, 50b, and 50c for linking.
[0052] In the first location, each triple link unit 50 is connected to a substantially horizontal shock absorber 60 that is assembled independently. In practice, the shock absorber 60 is connected at one end to the first assembly triple link unit 50 and at the other end to the second assembly triple link unit 50. In some embodiments, the connection of the shock absorber 60 to the corresponding triple link unit 50 is made at the top of the triple link unit 50 by a hinge joint connection in the opening 50a. In another embodiment, the connection between the shock absorber 60 and the opening 50a may be a fixed connection, not necessarily a hinge joint. The shock absorber 60 may be, for example, the "Fox DHX2 Factory Shock" model.
[0053] The present invention provides a push rod in the form of a rod, bar, or any suitable structure including, for example, a suitable long axis, wherein a member connected to one end of the push rod is able to push or pull a member connected to the other end of the push rod. In the second part, each triple link unit 50 is connected to a corresponding push rod 40. In practice, one end of the push rod 40 is connected to the first assembly triple link unit 50, and the other end is connected to the lower part of the corresponding wheel hub assembly 12 by a hinge joint connection. In some embodiments, the connection of the push rod 40 to each corresponding triple link unit 50 is made externally by a hinge joint connection at the opening 50b. In another embodiment, the connection between the push rod 40 and the opening 50b may be a fixed connection, not necessarily a hinge joint.
[0054] In the third location, each triple link unit 50 is connected to a corresponding upper connecting rod 31r. This connection is made in the opening 50c such that the connecting rod 31r passes through the opening 50c, which forms a hinge joint connection. In some embodiments, the opening 50c is located in the lower inner position of the triple link unit 50. Thus, the connecting rod 31r is connected at its rear end to the rear upper control arm 20r, at its front end to the front upper control arm 20f, and also through the opening 50c of the triple link unit 50, which is located between the connection point to the rear upper control arm 20r and the connection point to the front upper control arm 20f.
[0055] This allows each triple connecting unit 50 to rotate around the central axis of the corresponding connecting rod 31r.
[0056] The suspension assembly 10 of the present invention further comprises an alignment holding mechanism. This alignment holding mechanism holds the side wheels (not shown) of the assembly 10 in an aligned state. By mounting wheels to the two side wheel hub assemblies 12, the alignment holding mechanism holds the two side wheel hub assemblies 12 of the assembly 10 in a substantially aligned state.
[0057] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the alignment holding mechanism includes an elastic restoring element with accumulated elastic material. Figures 1 and 2 show the elastic restoring element 70. The elastic restoring element 70 is located on a central mount 30, between two oblique upper arms 31. In some embodiments, the elastic restoring element 70 is made of rubber. The elastic restoring element 70 has an elastic body that is thick enough to cause a rigid element to bounce back when it is forcibly struck.
[0058] The alignment holding mechanism further comprises two horizontally tiltable (restorable / restoreable) arms 55. Each tiltable arm 55 (in its initial position) extends horizontally inward from the inner end of the corresponding triple coupling unit 50 (from the side closer to the center of the assembly). In some embodiments, each tiltable arm 55 extends from the vicinity region inside the opening 50c (towards the central vertical axis of the assembly 10). The horizontal position of each tiltable arm 55 is the initial / normal state when the two wheel hub assemblies 12 are aligned. Furthermore, since each tiltable arm 55 is integrally configured with the corresponding rotating triple coupling unit 50, the rotation of the rotating triple coupling unit 50 causes tilting of each tiltable arm 55 (rotation around the central axis of the corresponding connecting rod 31r).
[0059] Each tiltable arm 55 has a thickened edge 55e on its inner edge. In some embodiments, the thickened edge 55e is coated with PU. In one embodiment, the thickened edge 55e is ball-shaped. The top of the elastic restoring element 70 is substantially flat in some embodiments. Each thickened edge 55e is positioned directly above the elastic restoring element 70 and is configured to engage with it when it rotates. As each triple linkage unit 50 rotates, the corresponding tiltable arm 55 rotates accordingly. When it rotates on the elastic restoring element 70 and thereby engages the thickened edge 55e, the elasticity of the elastic restoring element 70 returns the thickened edge 55e to the horizontal position of the tiltable arm 55. Thus, the tiltable arm 55 always remains substantially horizontal, keeping the two wheel hub assemblies 12 always aligned.
[0060] As a result, if the suspension assembly 10 tilts (for example, when one wheel runs over a rock), the shock absorber 60 activates, contributing to smooth steering. When one wheel (the wheel attached to the hub assembly 12) is raised or lowered while the other wheel remains on the ground, a counteracting force is applied to the shock absorber 60, which helps to return the raised or lowered wheel to the ground.
[0061] However, if the wheels do not directly contact the road surface, for example, if the wheels cross an inclined surface or run over an object on the road, the wheels may lift off the ground in at least partially (or completely), causing the assembly 10 to tilt in the air without one wheel providing a counterforce to the other wheel (the opposite side of the shock absorber). In this case, the following actions may occur. One of the wheel hub assemblies 12 rises, The corresponding push rod 40 rises as the wheel hub assembly 12 rises, The corresponding triple linking unit 50 rotates as the push rod 40 rises, The corresponding tiltable arm 55 (part of the triple linking unit 50) rotates, The corresponding thickened edge portion 55e of the tiltable arm 55 engages (usually by force) with the elastic restoring element 70, The elastic restoring element 70 pushes the thickened edge portion 55e back to a substantially horizontal configuration of the tiltable arm 55. As a result, the triple linking unit 50 rotates back (by the tiltable arm 55 attached to it rotating and returning), As a result, the push rod 40 descends (by the triple linking unit 50 rotating and returning), As a result, the wheel hub assembly 12 (connected to the push rod 40) is lowered by the lowering of the push rod 40. This returns the wheel hub assembly 12 to its aligned position with the other wheel hub assembly 12, stabilizing the rider's balance. This system keeps the wheel hub assemblies 12 aligned with each other, maintaining the rider's balance.
[0062] According to another embodiment of the present invention, instead of the push rod 40, an elastic, elongated element (e.g., a spring element) may connect the wheel assembly 12 and the opening 50b.
[0063] Figure 1 shows a front suspension assembly as a suspension assembly, with the steering rod 45 visible. However, the rear suspension assembly is also an assembly according to the present invention, as described herein (with the steering rod 45 omitted and appropriate modifications made). Figure 4A shows another perspective view of assembly 10 for, for example, a set of rear wheels. Figure 4B shows a front view of assembly 10 of Figure 4A.
[0064] Multiple spacers, for example, cylindrical spacers 35, Between the diagonal upper arm 31 and the forward upper control arm 20f, Between the diagonal upper arm 31 and the rear upper control arm 20r, Between the diagonal lower arm 32 and the forward lower control arm 21f, and It may be positioned between the diagonally lower arm 32 and the rear lower control arm 21r. Each control arm and each oblique arm of the central mount 30 contribute to a robust structure by having complementary recesses for receiving each cylindrical spacer 35, in some embodiments.
[0065] Figure 5 is a front exploded view of a portion of the suspension assembly 10 for better understanding. Figure 6 is a perspective exploded view of a portion of the suspension assembly 10 for better understanding. Figure 7 is a top exploded view of a portion of the suspension assembly 10 for better understanding.
[0066] In other embodiments of the present invention (not shown), other bouncing / returning members may be used instead of the elastic restoring element 70 and the thickened edge portion 55e. In this embodiment, one end of a piston is connected to the edge of the horizontally tiltable arm 55 (instead of the thickened edge portion 55e), and the other end is connected to the upper part of the central mount 30 (instead of the position where the elastic restoring element 70 is located). This piston is known and provides a similar effect, and by returning the horizontally tiltable arm 55 to a horizontal configuration, it can maintain the necessary balance and stability, similar to the embodiments of the thickened edge portion 55e and the elastic restoring element 70.
[0067] In yet another embodiment of the present invention (not shown), other bounce / return members may be used instead of the elastic restoring element 70 and the thickened edge portion 55e. In this embodiment, one end of an elastic element (e.g., a spring) is connected to the edge of the horizontally tiltable arm 55 (in place of the thickened edge portion 55e), and the other end is connected to the upper part of the central mount 30 (in place of the position where the elastic restoring element 70 is located). This elastic element is known and provides a similar effect, and by returning the horizontally tiltable arm 55 to a horizontal configuration, it can maintain the required balance and stability, similar to the embodiments of the thickened edge portion 55e and the elastic restoring element 70.
[0068] According to another aspect of the present invention, the suspension assembly is configured to tilt the standing platform (or, in some embodiments, the platform on which the rider sits) on which the rider stands on the body of the scooter (or other vehicle) so that the rider can maintain balance more stably. The standing platform is usually leveled substantially horizontally. Generally, when a rider turns, centrifugal force acts on the rider, so the rider applies a reaction force, for example, by leaning to the other side, in order to maintain balance and not fall off the vehicle. The suspension assembly of the present invention is configured to tilt the standing platform in the opposite direction to the centrifugal force (in the direction of turning), providing greater stability to the rider, allowing the rider to balance more easily and reducing the effort of the reaction force that the rider normally applies when turning.
[0069] According to one embodiment of this aspect, the suspension assembly includes a tilting mechanism for rotating and displacing the standing platform. In one embodiment, the tilting mechanism is configured such that the steering handlebar is functionally connected to the tilting platform. In some embodiments, the steering of the steering handlebar is linearly proportional to the tilt of the standing platform, as described herein.
[0070] Furthermore, this aspect of the balance of the present invention can be combined with the suspension assembly 10 as described herein (in all embodiments thereof). For the sake of brevity and clarity, a detailed description of the suspension assembly 10 already described above has been omitted for this aspect of the present invention, but it will be understood that such a combination embodiment certainly constitutes a part of the present invention.
[0071] Furthermore, it will be understood that in other embodiments of the balance of the present invention, it may stand on its own and not necessarily need to be applied to the specific details of the suspension assembly 10.
[0072] While suspension assembly 10 relates to either the front or rear suspension assembly of a vehicle, this balancing embodiment of a suspension assembly relates to the front suspension assembly of a vehicle (e.g., a scooter), that is, a suspension assembly connected to a steering unit (e.g., a handlebar assembly).
[0073] Figure 8 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a suspension assembly 110 according to a balancing aspect of the present invention. The present invention includes a steering shaft that can be rotated by the rider, causing the wheels to swivel accordingly. Figure 8 shows a steering shaft 115 (usually positioned substantially vertically) extending upward from the top of the suspension assembly 110. The upper part of the steering shaft 115 is connected to a steering handlebar (not shown), and when the handlebar is steered / turned, the steering shaft rotates accordingly.
[0074] The steering shaft 115 is functionally connected to two side steering rods 116. Each side steering rod 116 is connected at its outer edge to the corresponding side wheel hub assembly 12. In this particular embodiment, the steering rods 116 are connected to the corresponding rear flanges 12f of the side wheel hub assembly 12. Each rear flange 12f extends rearward from its corresponding side wheel hub assembly 12. Thus, when the steering shaft 115 is turned (by the steering handlebar), it pushes one corresponding steering rod 116 (and pulls the other corresponding steering rod 116), changing the direction of each side wheel hub assembly 12 accordingly (resulting in the vehicle turning).
[0075] Each steering rod 116 is connected to the corresponding rear flange 12f by, for example, a hinge joint, a U-joint, or a ball joint / spherical joint (for example, comprising a corresponding ball element extending upward from the corresponding rear flange 12f, and each steering rod 116 having a housing element (for housing the corresponding ball) at its edge).
[0076] Figure 9 shows one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10 shows a bottom view of the suspension assembly 110. Figure 10 shows a (substantially horizontal) steering surface 114 connected to a side steering rod 116 (at its inner edge) and a steering shaft 115 (not shown). The steering surface 114 is connected to the side steering rod 116 from its bottom and fixedly connected to the steering shaft 115 from its top (as the steering shaft 115 rotates, the steering surface 114 rotates accordingly). Each steering rod 116 is connected to the steering surface 114 by, for example, a hinge joint, a U-joint, or a ball joint / spherical joint (for example, comprising two ball elements extending downward from the steering surface 114, with each rod 116 having a housing element at its edge (housing one of the two corresponding ball elements)). When the steering shaft 115 rotates, the steering surface 114 rotates as a result, pushing or pulling the steering rod 116 (to which it is attached), which causes the rear flange 12f to rotate around a vertical axis (for example, the hinge joint of the side wheel hub assembly 12 described later), thereby causing the side wheel hub assembly 12 to pivot in the same direction. Each side wheel hub assembly 12 forms a joint in the hinge joint mechanism, and the formed joint rotates around a vertical axis, or an axis that enables its pivot / rotation.
[0077] The suspension assembly 110 further comprises two side inclined rods 120. Each inclined rod 120 is connected at its outer edge to the corresponding rear flange 12f. In one embodiment, the inclined rods 120 are connected to the corresponding rear flange 12f from their bottom side (and the steering rods 116 are connected to the corresponding rear flange 12f from their upper sides).
[0078] Each inclined rod 120 is connected to each rear flange 12f by, for example, a hinge joint, a U-joint, or a ball joint / spherical joint (for example, having a corresponding ball element extending downward from the corresponding rear flange 12f, and each inclined rod 120 having a housing element (for housing the corresponding ball) at its edge).
[0079] When the steering shaft 115 rotates, this causes the steering surface 114 to rotate, which in turn pushes or pulls the steering rod 116 (to which it is attached), causing the rear flange 12f to rotate around one axis (for example, the vertical axis of the hinge joint mechanism associated with the side wheel hub assembly 12), which in turn pushes or pulls the inclined rod 120 (which is also connected to the flange 12f).
[0080] Each tilting rod 120 is connected to a tilting mechanism 130 at its other (inner) edge. The tilting mechanism 130 includes a central mount (for example, as previously described in relation to the central mount 30). The central mount is fixedly connected to the rider's standing platform surface 150, as shown in Figures 11 and 12. In one embodiment, the central mount is fixedly connected to a rear support 131. Platform supports 135 (usually elongated rectangular in shape) extend rearward from the rear support 131 (fixedly connected to or part of the rear support 131). The standing platform surface 150 is fixedly connected to and rests on the platform supports 135. The front edge of the platform supports 135 is fixedly connected to a bottom support 136 (usually a smaller rectangular in shape) which is fixedly mounted to the rear side of the rear support 131. The rear edge of the platform support column 135 is tiltably mounted to the rear of the vehicle body (not shown). Each tilting rod 120 is connected at its inner edge to the bottom support column 136 of the tilting mechanism 130.
[0081] The connection of the inclined rod 120 to the bottom support 136 may be by a hinge joint, a U-joint, or a ball joint / spherical joint (for example, comprising a corresponding ball element extending downward from the bottom support 136, with each inclined rod 120 having a housing element (for housing the corresponding ball) at its inner edge). Figure 12 shows two respective pin elements 136p extending downward from the bottom support 136. In this particular embodiment, each inclined rod 120 is connected at its inner edge to the corresponding pin element 136p (the pin element 136p being the hinge joint axis) which forms a hinge joint that rotates around the corresponding pin element 136p.
[0082] The tilting mechanism 130 of the suspension assembly 110 operates as follows: When the rider turns the steering handlebars, the steering shaft 115 rotates accordingly, causing the steering surface 114 to rotate accordingly, resulting in the steering rod 116 being pushed or pulled, causing the rear flange 12f to rotate, resulting in the tilting rod 120 being pushed or pulled, causing the pin element 136p to be displaced laterally (laterally along a hypothetical circular arc), thereby affecting the following interconnected elements of the tilting mechanism 130, namely, Bottom support 136 (the pin element 136p extends downward from the bottom support 136 and is pushed or pulled by the inclined rod 120), Rear support section 131 connected to bottom support column 136, A central mount (for example, the central mount 30 described above) connected to the rear support portion 131, Platform support column 135 that engages with rear support portion 131, and A standing platform surface 150 is connected to and placed on a platform support column 135. It is configured to be inclined.
[0083] Figures 13 and 14 are rear views of the tilting mechanism. In Figure 13, the rider holds the steering handlebars in the forward position (unturned). Therefore, in riding mode, the vehicle moves forward. In Figure 14, the rider turns left by turning the handlebars to the left. Therefore, the steering shaft 115 rotates counterclockwise (when viewed from above) accordingly, causing the steering surface 114 to rotate accordingly, resulting in the steering rod 116 being pushed or pulled, which causes the rear flange 12f to rotate the wheel to the left, which in turn pushes or pulls the tilting rod 120, resulting in the pin element 136p being displaced laterally (to the right) along a virtual circular arc, which in turn causes each of the aforementioned interconnected elements related to the tilting mechanism 130 to tilt counterclockwise (viewed from the rear, for example, 15 degrees in this example). In particular, the platform surface 150 (which is mounted on and fixedly connected to the support column 135) tilts counterclockwise (when viewed from the rear), creating a force that counteracts centrifugal force and helps the rider maintain their balance. When the vehicle turns right, the opposite tilt occurs based on a similar principle.
[0084] Figure 15 shows an example where the platform surface 150 tilts 10 degrees to the left / counterclockwise due to a left turn by the rider. Figure 16 shows an example where the platform surface 150 tilts 15 degrees to the right / clockwise due to a right turn by the rider.
[0085] In one embodiment, the steering shaft 115 passes through the rear support portion 131 (for example, through an internal bore that does not obstruct the tilting of the tilting mechanism 130).
[0086] The size of the elements of assemblies 10 and 110 may be similar to (or larger or smaller than) the size of a similar vehicle assembly. The size of the elements of the present invention may be suitable for scooters, small vehicles (e.g., minicars), or even large vehicles.
[0087] The elements of assemblies 10 and 110 may include any metal (e.g., steel, stainless steel, aluminum). These elements may also include carbon, CNC, other polymers, etc.
[0088] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it is clear that the present invention can be implemented with many modifications, changes, and adaptations within the scope of the work of those skilled in the art, and using many equivalents or alternative means, without departing from the spirit of the invention or the scope of the claims.
Claims
1. Central mount and An elastic restoring element positioned on the central mount, Two side wheel hub assemblies, Two push rods, Two horizontal upper connecting rods, Horizontal impact absorption section, Two upper control arm units, each connected to the upper part of the corresponding side wheel hub assembly among the two side wheel hub assemblies, Two lower control arm units, each connected to the lower part of the corresponding side wheel hub assembly among the two side wheel hub assemblies, Two vertically rotatable triple link units, each a. The corresponding side of the horizontal shock absorber, b. One of the two horizontal upper connecting rods, and c. The first end of the corresponding push rod among the two push rods, Two vertically rotatable triple link units are connected to it, A vehicle suspension assembly comprising, The second ends of the two push rods are each connected to the lower part of the corresponding side wheel hub assembly of the two side wheel hub assemblies, Each of the two horizontal upper connecting rods passes through the corresponding upper control arm unit of the two upper control arm units. Each of the two vertically rotatable triple linking units is equipped with a horizontally tiltable arm extending inward, The edge of the horizontally tiltable arm is positioned above the elastic restoring element and is engageable with the elastic restoring element. Vehicle suspension assembly.
2. The central mount comprises two diagonally extending upper arms and two diagonally extending lower arms, The elastic restoring element is positioned between the two diagonal upper arms on the central mount. The vehicle suspension assembly according to claim 1.
3. Each of the two upper control arm units comprises a front upper control arm and a rear upper control arm, both connected by a hinge joint to the upper part of the corresponding side wheel hub assembly among the two side wheel hub assemblies. The two lower control arm units each comprise a front lower control arm and a rear lower control arm, both connected by a hinge joint to the lower part of the corresponding side wheel hub assembly among the two side wheel hub assemblies. The vehicle suspension assembly according to claim 2.
4. The two horizontal upper connecting rods are, Corresponding front upper control arm, Corresponding rear upper control arm, The corresponding opening in the triple-connecting unit, and Of the two diagonal upper arms mentioned above, the corresponding diagonal upper arm, Passing through the inside, The vehicle suspension assembly according to claim 3.
5. Two horizontal lower connecting rods, each Corresponding front lower control arm, Corresponding rear lower control arm, and Of the two aforementioned diagonal lower arms, the corresponding diagonal lower arm, It has two horizontal lower connecting rods that pass through the inside, The vehicle suspension assembly according to claim 3.
6. The two vertically rotatable triple link units are, The upper part of the vertically rotatable triple linking unit is connected to the corresponding side of the horizontal impact absorbing section, The inner portion of the vertically rotatable triple connecting unit is connected to the corresponding horizontal upper connecting rod, and The outer portion of the vertically rotatable triple coupling unit is connected to the corresponding push rod, The vehicle suspension assembly according to claim 4.
7. Each of the two vertically rotatable triple link units is connected to the corresponding side of the horizontal shock absorber by a hinge joint connection, and Each of the two vertically rotatable triple link units is connected to the corresponding push rod by a hinge joint connection. The vehicle suspension assembly according to claim 6.
8. Each of the horizontally tiltable arms is provided with a thickened edge portion on its inner edge. The vehicle suspension assembly according to claim 1.
9. The aforementioned thickened edge portion is provided with a PU coating. The vehicle suspension assembly according to claim 8.
10. The aforementioned thickened edge portion is ball-shaped. The vehicle suspension assembly according to claim 8.
11. The edge of the horizontally tiltable arm is configured to engage with the elastic restoring element when the two vertically rotatable triple linking units rotate in corresponding directions. The vehicle suspension assembly according to claim 1.
12. A steering unit equipped with a steering shaft, Standing platform and A tilting mechanism, Furthermore, The tilting mechanism is configured such that the standing platform is tilted by the rotation of the steering shaft. The vehicle suspension assembly according to claim 1.
13. A steering unit equipped with a steering shaft, Standing platform and A tilting mechanism, Equipped with, The tilting mechanism is configured such that the standing platform is tilted by the rotation of the steering shaft. Vehicle suspension assembly.
14. The steering unit includes a steering handle bar fixedly connected to the steering shaft. The vehicle suspension assembly according to claim 13.
15. The rotation of the steering handlebar is linearly proportional to the inclination of the standing platform. The vehicle suspension assembly according to claim 14.
16. Two side wheel hub assemblies that can rotate around a vertical axis, Two side steering rods, each having one end functionally connected to the steering shaft and the other end connected to the corresponding side wheel hub assembly of the two side wheel hub assemblies, Two inclined rods, each having one end connected to the corresponding side wheel hub assembly of the two side wheel hub assemblies, and the other end connected to the inclined mechanism, The vehicle suspension assembly according to claim 13, comprising:
17. Each of the two side wheel hub assemblies is equipped with a rearward-extending rear flange, The two side steering rods and the two inclined rods are connected to the two side wheel hub assemblies at the rear flange. The vehicle suspension assembly according to claim 16.
18. The steering surface is connected to the steering shaft, The two side steering rods are each connected to the steering surface. The vehicle suspension assembly according to claim 16.
19. The connection of the two side steering rods to the steering surface and the two side wheel hub assemblies, and the connection of the two tilting rods to the tilting mechanism and the two side wheel hub assemblies, are made by hinge joints, U-joints, or ball joints. The vehicle suspension assembly according to claim 18.
20. The aforementioned tilting mechanism is A central mount fixed and connected to the rear support section, A platform support column that engages with and connects to the aforementioned rear support portion and extends rearward from there, Equipped with, The standing platform surface is connected to and mounted on the platform support column. The vehicle suspension assembly according to claim 16.
21. The aforementioned tilting mechanism is A central mount fixed and connected to the rear support section, A platform support column that engages with the rear support portion and extends rearward from there, A bottom support connected to the rear end of the rear support section, Equipped with, The front edge of the platform support column is rested on the bottom support column. The standing platform surface is connected to and mounted on the platform support column. The vehicle suspension assembly according to claim 16.
22. The bottom support column comprises two pin elements extending downward from there, Each of the two inclined rods is connected to the inclined mechanism at the corresponding pin element of the two pin elements, thereby forming a hinge joint that allows each of the two inclined rods to rotate around the corresponding pin element. The vehicle suspension assembly according to claim 21.
23. A vehicle suspension assembly comprising the vehicle suspension assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 22, vehicle.
24. The aforementioned vehicle is a scooter. The vehicle according to claim 23.