Four-link independent suspension

Abstract

An independent wheel suspension includes an upper suspension member, a lower arm, an upper arm, an elongated plate and a first wheel motor linkage arm. The upper suspension member includes an upper end and a first arm. The first arm is secured to the elongated plate. The lower arm and the upper arm extend longitudinally. A first end of the lower is positioned between and pivotally attached to the first arm and the elongated plate. A first end of the upper arm is positioned between and is pivotally attached to the first arm and the elongated plate above the lower arm. The first wheel motor linkage arm which accommodates a motor wheel mount secured or securable to a wheel motor is pivotally attached at a first end to the lower arm and at a second end to the second end of the upper arm.

Description

FOUR-LINK INDEPENDENT SUSPENSIONRELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 512,509, filed July 7, 2024, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUNDField of the Disclosure

[0002] The present disclosure relates to an independent suspension for agricultural vehicles. More particularly, the present disclosure invention relates to an enhanced design and construction of a four-link independent suspension system useful for agricultural vehicles such as agricultural sprayers.Description of Related Art

[0003] The present disclosure relates to an independent suspension for agricultural vehicles. More particularly, the present disclosure invention relates to an enhanced design and construction of a four-link independent suspension system useful for agricultural vehicles such as agricultural sprayers.

[0004] Agricultural vehicles are often equipped with independent wheels wherein an axle is not used to connect the front wheels, or the back wheels. Having four independent wheels without axle attachment allows the vehicle cab to ride high above the crops, and eliminates injuries to the crops or the vehicle if an axle were to brush over the crops.

[0005] With such an axle-less design each of the wheels may have an independent suspension. As an agricultural vehicle, such as a sprayer moves over the terrain of a crop field, the wheels are subjected to and react longitudinal, vertical, and horizontal force inputs. An exemplary independent wheel suspension is described in U.S. Patent No. 10,807,461 , the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0006] It would be desirable to provide an independent wheel suspension useful on an agricultural vehicle that facilitates installation of suspensioncomponents, reduces risk of seal and bearing damage, allows for more robust sealing solutions, allows for the preassembly of certain suspension components that fits within the existing wheel housing envelope and wheels of agricultural vehicles having independent wheel suspensions.SUMMARY

[0007] In one aspect, an independent wheel suspension is provided including an upper suspension member, a lower arm, an upper arm, an elongated plate, and a first wheel motor linkage arm. The upper suspension member includes an upper end and a first arm secured to the elongated plate. The lower arm and the upper arm extend longitudinally. A first end of the lower is positioned between and pivotally attached to the first arm and the elongated plate. A first end of the upper arm is positioned between and is pivotally attached to the first arm and the elongated plate above the lower arm. The first wheel motor linkage arm which accommodates a motor wheel mount secured or securable to a wheel motor is pivotally attached at a first end to the lower arm and at a second end to the second end of the upper arm.

[0008] In another aspect, a method assembling an independent wheel suspension for use in a vehicle is provided. The method includes providing an upper suspension member including an upper end and a first arm. The method further includes providing a lower arm and an upper arm extending longitudinally. The method further includes providing an elongated plate. The method further includes positioning and pivotally attaching a first end of the lower arm to the first arm and the elongated plate. The method further includes positioning and pivotally attaching a first end of the upper arm to the first arm and the elongated plate. The method further includes providing a first wheel motor linkage arm which accommodates a motor wheel mount secured or securable to a wheel motor. The method further includes positioning and pivotally attaching a first end of the first wheel motor linkage arm to the lower arm and a second end of the first wheel motor linkage arm to a second end of the upper arm. The method further includes securing the elongated plate to the first arm with the use of a fastener.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Example embodiments of the invention are described herein with reference to the drawings, wherein like parts are designated by like reference numerals.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an example agricultural crop spraying vehicle 10 having four wheels each with an independent wheel suspension assembly 20 and no wheel axles extending laterally from the center of oppositely disposed wheels.

[0011] FIG. 2A is a side view of a four-link independent wheel suspension 200, according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, with a wheel motor and wheel rim, in a partially loaded state.

[0012] FIG. 2B is a perspective view of the subject matter of FIG. 2A taken from the side opposite that shown in FIG. 2A.

[0013] FIG. 2C is a side view of the embodiment of four-link independent wheel suspension 200 shown in FIG. 2A, in a jounce state.

[0014] FIG. 2D is a side view of the embodiment of four-link independent wheel suspension 200 shown in FIG. 2A, in a rebound state.

[0015] FIG. 3A is a side view of four-link independent wheel suspension 200 of the present disclosure, without a wheel motor or wheel rim, taken from the side shown in FIG. 2D.

[0016] FIG. 3B is a partially exploded view of select components of four-link independent wheel suspension 200.

[0017] FIG. 4A is a side view of a component of four-link independent wheel suspension 200.

[0018] FIG. 4B is a perspective view of the component of four linkindependent wheel suspension 200 shown in FIG. 4A.

[0019] FIG. 5A is a perspective view of another component of four-link independent wheel suspension 200.

[0020] FIG. 5B is a side view of the component of the four-link independent wheel suspension 200 shown in FIG. 5A.

[0021] FIG. 5C is another perspective view of the component of the four-link independent wheel suspension 200 shown in FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] The present embodiments are directed to an enhanced design and construction of an independent wheel suspension that includes four-link independent wheel suspension members pivotally attached at four joints. The enhanced design and construction allows for easier installation of components of the suspension, reduces risk of seal and bearing damage, allows for more robust sealing solutions, allows for pins to be preassembled to suspension arms and other benefits.

[0023] The use of a four-link system having four joints allows wheel motor torque to be reacted through the mechanism and not the primary suspension spring. This results in less ride height change caused by wheel motor torque making the suspension less torque reactive. The four-link independent wheel suspension can fit within the wheel envelope or internal area defined by a cylindrical wall of a wheel rim used on existing agricultural vehicles such as crop sprayers that may have tires 75 inches in diameter or a different diameter. The four-link independent wheel suspension described herein will fit within the wheel envelope of other agricultural vehicles as well.

[0024] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of the agricultural crop spraying vehicle 10, often referred to as a crop spraying, having four wheels 30 each with an independent wheel suspension assembly 20. In agricultural vehicles such as crop spraying vehicle 10, each wheel is independent of the others and a drive motor is positioned on the inside of each wheel 30 to drive the wheels, providing the vehicle with 4-wheel drive. As shown in FIG. 1 , there are no axles extending laterally between the centers of front wheels or the rear wheels. The absence of axles provides for greater clearance in the area 40 beneath the vehicle body and between the wheels to prevent or at least reduce damage to crops or the vehicle when crop sprayer 10 is moving over crops as it sprays them. Each wheel may include its own independent wheel suspension 20. Due to the nature of FIG. 1 , the independent wheel suspension 20 can only be seen in FIG. 1 for a left front wheel. Independent wheel suspension 20 may be configured as the four-link independent wheel suspension 200 shown in FIGS. 2A & 3A and described below.

[0025] FIGS. 2A - 2D illustrate a four-link independent suspension 200, with a wheel motor 220 secured to a wheel motor mount 222. Suspension 200 includes four pivot points or joints for the bars or links that allow vertical movement of the wheel motor while controlling its axial rotation. Suspension 200 is positioned on aninside of wheel hub 210. The tire is left out of these Figures for purposes of clarity. FIG. 2B is a perspective view of the subject matter of FIG. 2A taken from the other side. Wheel motor hub 221a extends through a bore in the center of wheel hub 210. Studs or other fasteners 221 b extend through bores surrounding the center bore accommodating the wheel motor hub 221 . Connectors or nuts for the studs or fasteners 221 b are removed for purposes of clarity. FIG. 2C is side view of suspension 200 in a jounce state. FIG. 2D is a side view of suspension 200 in a rebound state.

[0026] FIG. 3A is a side view of four-link independent wheel suspension 200 without a wheel motor 220, wheel motor mount or wheel hub 210, shown in a partially loaded (1 G) state, which is as the suspension naturally rests when loaded to design weight, sitting on level ground no external forces other than gravity. FIG. 3B is a partially exploded perspective view of suspension 200 shown in FIGS. 2A - 3A without an air spring or a shock absorber, which are omitted for clarity purposes. Four-link independent wheel suspension 200 includes an upper suspension member 230 having an upper end 234 adapted for attachment to a steering arm and vehicle frame. A downwardly extending first arm 232 extending from a first side of upper suspension member 230 is attached to the upper suspension member 230, although the first arm 232 is not required to downwardly extend. A second arm 236 downwardly extends from a second side of the upper suspension member 230 with a spring mount 238 positioned on an end thereof. First arm 232 and elongated plate 232 are secured together with the use of fasteners and will be further described herein. FIGS. 4A - 4B are additional views of upper suspension member 230 with first arm 232 in isolation. FIGS. 5A - 5C are three slightly different views of elongated plate 240 in isolation.

[0027] The combination of first arm 232 and elongated plate 240 together represent the first bar or link of four-link independent wheel suspension 200.

[0028] First arm 232 of example four link suspension 200 includes a body with four sides, each side having a surface. A first side surface 232a faces the elongated plate (FIG. 3B). A third side surface 232c is positioned on the first arm body opposite the first side surface 232a (FIG. 4B) A second side surface 232b is positioned on the same side of first arm 232 which a lower arm 250 and an upper arm 280, described herein, longitudinally extend (FIG. 4B). Second side surface 232b and a fourth side surface 232d each extend between first side surface 232aand third side surface 232c and are positioned on the first arm body opposite one another. First side surface 232a includes an engagement surface brought into contact with an engagement surface of elongated plate 240 when elongated plate 240 and first arm 232 are reversibly secured together with the use of fasteners 249a and related connectors or nuts 249b (FIGS. 4A, 5B, 3B).

[0029] The second and third bars or links of the example four link suspension 200 are represented by lower arm 250 and an upper arm 280.

[0030] Lower arm 250 extends longitudinally and has a first end 250a and second end 250b, the first end 250a positioned between, and pivotally attached, to first arm 232 and elongated plate 240 (FIG. 3B). Similarly, upper arm 280 extends longitudinally and has a first end 280a and a second end 280b, the first end 280a positioned between, and pivotally attached, to first arm 232 and elongated plate 232 above lower arm 250 (FIGS. 3B, 3A)

[0031] First arm bore 232i, lower arm first end bore 250c, and elongated plate bore 242a are in coaxial alignment with one another, as are first arm bore 232k, upper arm first end bore 280c, and elongated plate bore 242b. (FIG. 3B) Pin 289a received in lower arm first end bore 250c extends beyond the left end face and right end face of bore 250c and is received in first arm bore 232i and elongated plate bore 242a (FIG. 3B). Similarly, pin 289d received in upper arm first end bore 280c extends beyond the left end face and right end face of bore 280c and is received in first arm bore 232k and elongated plate bore 242b (FIG. 3B) Cylindrical bushings present in first arm bores 232i, 232k and elongated plate bores 242a, 242b which reduce friction are not shown. Other bushings and / or bearings may be employed without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. End plate 290 and gasket 292 secured with fasteners 291 to the outside end face of bores 232i, 242a, 232k, 242b help maintain lubrication of surfaces and prevent dirt and debris from entering boreholes (FIG. 3B).

[0032] Lower arm first end 250a and upper arm first end 280a positioned between and pivotally attached to first arm 232 and elongated plate 240 which are reversibly secured together both facilitates and provides greater access to related and adjacent suspension components, reduces risk of seal and bearing damage, allows for more robust bushing and other sealing solutions, allows for pins to be preassembled to lower arm first end 250a and upper arm first end 280a along with other benefits.

[0033] While first arm bores 232i, 232k may be generally described as partially defined by and extending from first side surface 232a to third side surface face 232c, first arm bores 232i , 232k of the example suspension 200 extend from respective recesses 232j , 2321 of first side surface 232a and are part of and defined by first side surface 232a (FIG. 3B) The comparative depths of first arm and elongated plate recesses in which first arm bores 232i, 232k and respective elongated plate bores 242a, 242b sit may be varied without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0034] First arm 232 also may include recesses which reduce suspension weight, such as for example, 232g in first side surface 232a and recess 232h in third side surface 232c, which are disposed between bore 232i and 232k (FIG. 4A, 4B, 2A).

[0035] At a distal end of first arm 232, below bore 232i, first arm 232 presents an upwardly facing surface 232f which functions as a rebound stop when lower arm 250 pivots downward in relation to first arm 232, bringing a bottom surface 250e with pad 251 into contact with upwardly facing surface 232f of first arm 232 (FIG. 3A, 4A). Upwardly facing surface 232f limits further downward travel of the lower arm 250 relative to first arm 232 in this manner (FIG. 2D).

[0036] Elongated plate 240, which together with first arm 232 represents the first bar or link of suspension 200, has a top wall 242, a first support wall 243 and a second support wall 244 (FIGS. 5A-5C). The top surface of first support wall 243 and second support wall 244 engage respectively a first end portion and a second portion of the bottom surface of top wall 242 (FIGS. 5B-5C). First support wall 243 partially surrounds a first location where the lower arm first end 250a is pivotally attached to elongated plate 240 (FIGS. 3B, 5B, 5C). Second support wall 244 partially surrounds a second location of top wall 242 where upper arm first end 280a is pivotally attached to elongated plate 240 (FIGS. 3B, 5B, 5C). One or more fasteners secure the elongated plate 240 to the first arm.

[0037] The location where lower arm first end 250a is pivotally attached to elongated plate 240 optionally, may be further defined as the surface of top wall 242 defining bore 242a (FIG. 5C). The location where upper arm first end 280a is pivotally attached to elongated plate 240 optionally, may be further defined as the surface of top wall 242 defining bore 242b (FIG. 5C).

[0038] First support wall 243 is associated with lower arm first end 250a and its pivotal attachment to elongated plate 240 (FIG. 5B, 5C). First support wall 243 has a first end 243a and a second end 243b (FIG. 5B, 5C). First end 243a is positioned above the location where lower arm first end 250a is pivotally attached to elongated plate 240 (FIG. 5B, 5C). Second end 243b is positioned below this location (FIG. 5B, 5C). First support wall 243 traverses a path from first end 243a to second end 243b, which may include a non-linear, intermediate section (FIG. 5B). While first end 243a and second end 243b are positioned on a first side of this location, the path traversed by first support wall 243 extends to a second side of this location which is opposite the first side (FIG. 5B). The location where the lower arm first end 250a is pivotally attached to elongated plate 240 sits in a recess 243d defined by a side surface 243c of first support wall 243 that faces this location (FIG. 5C). The bottom surface of first support wall 243 is configured to engage first arm 232; continuous engagement however is not required. A portion of the bottom surface may also arch or recess 243e (FIGS. 5B, 5C).

[0039] Second support wall 244 is associated with upper arm fist end 280a and its pivotal attachment to elongated plate 240 (FIG. 5B, 5C). Second support wall 244 has a first end 244a and a second end 244b (FIG. 5B, 5C). First end 244a is positioned below the location where upper arm first end 280a is pivotally attached to elongated plate 240 (FIG. 5B, 5C) Second end 280b is positioned above this location (FIG. 5B, 5C). Second support wall 244 traverses a path from first end 244a to second end 244b, which may include a non-linear, intermediate section (FIG. 5B). While first end 244a and second end 244b are positioned on a first side of this location, the path traversed by second support wall 244 extends to a second side of this location, the second side opposite the first side (FIG. 5B). The location where upper arm first end 280a is pivotally attached to elongated plate 240 sits in a recess 244d defined by a side surface 244c of second support wall 244 that faces this location (FIG. 5C). The bottom surface of second support wall 244 is configured to engage first arm 232; continuous engagement however is not required (FIG. 5B).

[0040] An optional third support wall 245 and an optional fourth support wall 246 traverse elongated plate 240 generally lengthwise between first support wall 243 and second support wall 244 either of which they may or may not engage (FIG. 5B, 5C). In the present example of FIG. 5B and FIG. 5C, third support wall 245 and fourth support wall 246 each engage first support wall 243 and second support wall244. Third support wall 245 and fourth support wall 246 are spaced apart and may be positioned on opposite lateral sides of elongated plate 240 (FIG. 5B, 50). A top surface of third support wall 245 and fourth support wall 246 engage top wall 242 or a bottom surface of top wall 242 (FIG. 5B, 5C). At least a portion 245a, 246a of the bottom surface of third support wall 245 and fourth support wall 246 may be arched or recessed (FIG. 5B, 5C). At least a portion of the bottom surface of third support wall 245 and fourth support wall 246 may engage first arm 232 as shown in a midsection of walls 245 and 246 (FIG. 5B, 50).

[0041] An optional fifth support wall 247 has a top surface engaging top wall 242 (FIG. 5B, 5C). Fifth support wall 247 has an orientation that is non-parallel with or transverse to an axis extending through the first and second locations were respectively, lower arm first end 250a and upper arm first end 280a pivotally attach to elongated plate 240. FIG. 5B and FIG. 5C show first end and second end of fifth support wall 247 engaging respectively third support wall 245 and fourth support wall 246, however, such may be varied to include none, one or both of these optional engagements without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Similarly, FIG.5B and FIG. 5C show a bottom surface of fifth support wall 247 is configured to engage first arm 232, however, it will be appreciated that such is not required.

[0042] A fourth bar or link of the example four link suspension 200 is represented by first wheel motor linkage member or first wheel motor linkage arm 272.

[0043] First wheel motor linkage arm 272 has a bottom end or first end 272a, a bottom end or first end bore 272e, a top end or a second end 272c, a top end or a second end bore 272f, a first wheel motor mount bracket 272b positioned between first end 272a and second end 272c, and first wheel motor mount bracket bores 272d (FIG. 3B). First end 272a of first wheel motor linkage arm 272 is pivotally attached to lower arm 250 between first end 250a and second end 250b and to upper arm 280 at its second end 280b. (FIG. 3B) First wheel motor mount bracket 272b, which in the example shown, is arcuately shaped is configured to receive an outer periphery of wheel motor mount 222 secured or securable to wheel motor 220 to attach wheel motor 220 to suspension 200 (FIG. 3B). Bores 272d in registration with bores of wheel motor mount 272d receive suitable fasteners (not shown) (FIG. 2A). First wheel motor linkage arm 272 may be a separate member attached to the wheel motor mount 222, such as a flange, or an extension of wheel motormount 222. First wheel motor linkage arm 272 may also be integrally formed with wheel motor mount 222. The result achieved pivotally attaches wheel motor 220 to lower arm 250 between first end 250a and second end 250c and to upper arm second end 280b.

[0044] An optional second wheel motor linkage member or second wheel motor linkage arm 276 has a bottom end or first end 276a, a bottom end or first end bore 276e, a top end or a second end 276c, a top end or a second end bore 276f, and a bracket 276b presenting an engagement surface configured to engage the inner periphery of first wheel motor bracket 272b from the location of its pivotal attachment. (FIG. 3B) Bores 276d of arcuately shaped bracket 276d are in registration with bores 272d of bracket 272d. (FIG. 2A, 3B) Second wheel motor linkage arm 276 reinforces first wheel motor linkage arm 272, and the pivotal attachment of suspension 200 to wheel motor 220 through wheel motor mount 222 (FIG. 2A).

[0045] As described and shown herein, first wheel motor linkage arm 272 and optional second wheel motor linkage arm 276 are pivotally attached to upper arm second end 280b and lower arm 250 between first end 250a and second end 250b (FIG. 3B). First wheel motor linkage arm first end bore 272e, lower arm bore 250d, and second wheel motor linkage arm first end bore 276e are in coaxial alignment with one another, as are first wheel first motor linkage arm second end bore 272f, upper arm second end bore 280d, and second wheel motor linkage arm second end bore 276f (FIG. 3B). Pin 289b received in lower arm lower arm bore 250d extends beyond the left end face and right end face of bore 250d and is received in first wheel motor linkage arm first end bore 276e and second wheel motor linkage arm first end bore 276e (FIG. 3B). Similarly, pin 289c received in upper arm second end bore 280d extends beyond the left end face and right end face of bore 280d and is received in first wheel motor linkage second end bore 272f and second wheel motor linkage second end bore 276f (FIG. 3B). Cylindrical bushings present in first and second wheel motor linkage end bores 272e, 276e and 272f, 276f, which reduce friction, are not shown (FIG. 3B). Other bushings and / or bearings may be employed without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. End plate 290 and gasket 292 secured with fasteners 291 to the outside end face of bores 272e, 276e, 272f, and 276f help maintain lubrication of surfaces and prevent dirt and debris from entering boreholes (FIG. 3B).

[0046] It should be noted that lower arm second end 250b includes a spring mount 254 (FIG. 3A). A spring 260 is positioned between spring mount 238 and spring mount 254 (FIG. 3A). The spring 260 may be a damper or shock absorber as shown, or it could be an air spring, air strut, hydraulic spring, rubber spring, air bag, coil spring, or other spring design or any combination thereof. In the variant of suspension 200 shown in FIG. 3A, spring 260 appears in combination with shock absorber 261 , which is attached at a first end to first wheel motor link arm first end 276a and second arm 236 proximate to spring mount 238.

[0047] The upper suspension member 230 including first arm 232 and second arm 236, upper arm 280 and lower arm 250 may be made by forged or cast metal, or may be made of other materials such as composite materials, and are not required to be cast or forged. First motor wheel linkage arm 272 and second wheel motor linkage arm 276 may be cast, forged, cut from steel plate or tubing, and may also be made of other materials such as composite materials.

[0048] It will be understood that the embodiments and examples described above are illustrative of some of the applications of the principles of the present subject matter. Numerous modifications may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed subject matter, including those combinations of features that are individually disclosed or claimed herein. For these reasons, the scope hereof is not limited to the above description but is as set forth in the following claims, and it is understood that claims may be directed to the features hereof, including as combinations of features that are individually disclosed or claimed herein.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . An independent wheel suspension for use in a vehicle comprising: an upper suspension member, a lower arm, an upper arm, an elongated plate, and a first wheel motor linkage arm, the upper suspension member comprising an upper end and a first arm, the first arm having a first end and a second end, the first arm extending from a first side of the upper suspension member, the first arm first end and second end positioned in a first plane extending parallel to a longitudinal axis of the vehicle, the upper suspension member further comprising a spring mount positioned on a second side of the upper suspension member, the spring mount attached to a top of a spring; the lower arm extending longitudinally and having a first end and a second end, the lower arm first end positioned between, and pivotally attached to, the first arm and the elongated plate, wherein the lower arm first end and second end are positioned in the first plane; the upper arm extending longitudinally and having a first end and a second end, the upper arm first end positioned between, and pivotally attached to, the first arm and the elongated plate, and wherein upper arm first end and second end are positioned in a second plane extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle, where the second plane is parallel to or coplanar with the first plane; the elongated plate comprising a top wall, a first support wall, and a second support wall, the top wall having a first end portion and a second end portion, the first support wall and the second support wall each having a top surface and a bottom surface, the top surface of the first support wall engaging a first end portion of the top wall, at least a portion of the bottom surface of the first support wall engaging the first arm, the first support wall at least partially surrounding a first location of the elongated plate where the first end of the lower arm is pivotally attached,a top surface of the second support wall engaging a second end portion of the top wall, at least a portion of the bottom surface of the second support wall engaging the first arm, the second support wall at least partially surrounding a second location of the elongated plate where the first end of the upper arm is pivotally attached, the elongated plate secured to the first arm with the use of a fastener; and the first wheel motor linkage arm having a first end and a second end and a wheel motor mount bracket therebetween, the first end of the first wheel motor linkage arm attached to the lower arm between the first end and the second end of the lower arm, the second end of the upper arm attached to the second end of the first wheel motor linkage arm, the wheel motor mount bracket for receiving a wheel motor mount secured to a wheel motor to position the wheel motor between the upper arm and the lower arm, wherein the first end and the second end of the first wheel motor linkage arm are positioned in a third plane extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle, wherein the third plane is parallel to or coplanar with the first and second planes.

2. The independent wheel suspension of claim 1 wherein the first end of the first wheel motor linkage arm is attached by pivotal attachment to the lower arm between the lower arm first end and second end.

3. The independent wheel suspension of claim 1 wherein the second end of the first wheel motor linkage arm is attached to the upper arm second end by pivotal attachment.

4. The independent wheel suspension of any previous claim comprising a pin, and wherein the lower arm first end defines a bore, and the first arm and the elongated plate each define a bore in coaxial alignment with the lower arm first end bore, wherein the bore defined by the elongated plate in coaxial alignment with lower arm first end bore is defined by a top wall surface of the elongated plate, thetop wall surface defining the bore of the elongated plate in coaxial alignment with lower arm first end bore is the first location, wherein the pin is received in the lower arm first end bore and in the first arm and the elongated plate bores in coaxial alignment with the lower arm first end bore, providing for the pivotal attachment of the lower arm first end to the first arm and to the elongated plate.

5. The independent wheel suspension of any previous claim comprising a pin, wherein the upper arm first end defines a bore, and the first arm and the elongated plate each define a bore in coaxial alignment with the upper arm first end bore, wherein the bore defined by the elongated plate in coaxial alignment with upper arm first end bore is defined by a top wall surface of the elongated plate, the top wall surface defining the bore of the elongated plate in coaxial alignment with upper arm first end bore is the second location, and wherein the pin is received in the upper arm first end bore, and in the first arm and the elongated bores in coaxial alignment with the upper arm first end bore, providing for the pivotal attachment of the upper arm first end to the first arm and to the elongated plate.

6. The independent wheel suspension of any previous claim, elongated plate first support wall having a first end and a second end, the first support wall traversing a path from the first end to the second end, the first support wall first end positioned above the first location.

7. The independent wheel suspension of the previous claim, wherein the first support wall second end is positioned below the first location.

8. The independent wheel suspension of any one of the two previous claims wherein the first support wall path extending from the first end to the second end includes a non-linear section.

9. The independent wheel suspension of any one of the previous three claims wherein the first support wall first end and second end are positioned on a first side of the first location, and the path of the first support wall extends to a second side of the first location, the second side opposite the first side.

10. The independent wheel suspension of any previous claim wherein a portion of the bottom surface of the first support wall is arched or recessed, and / or is spaced apart from the first arm.11 . The independent wheel suspension of any previous claim, the first support wall having a side surface facing the first location and defining a recess, the first location positioned in the recess.

12. The independent wheel suspension of any previous claim, the elongated plate second support wall having a first end and a second end, the second support wall traversing a path from the first end to the second end, the second support wall first end positioned below the second location.

13. The independent wheel suspension of the previous claim wherein the second support wall second end is positioned above the second location.

14. The independent wheel suspension of any one of the previous two claims wherein the second support wall path extending from the first end to the second includes a non-linear section.

15. The independent wheel suspension of any one of the previous three claims wherein the second support wall first end and second end are positioned on a first side of the second location, and the path of the second support wall extends to a second side of the second location, the second side opposite the first side.

16. The independent wheel suspension of any previous claim wherein a portion of the bottom surface of the second support wall is arched or recessed, and / or is spaced apart from the first arm.

17. The independent wheel suspension of any previous claim, the second support wall having a side surface facing the second location and defining a recess, the second location positioned in the recess.

18. The independent wheel suspension of any previous claim, the elongated plate further comprising a third support wall having a top surface engaging the top wall and traversing the elongated plate lengthwise between the first support wall and the second support wall.

19. The independent wheel suspension of the previous claim wherein at least a portion of the bottom surface of the third support wall is arched or recessed, and / or is spaced apart from the first arm.

20. The independent wheel suspension of any previous claim, the elongated plate comprising a fourth support wall having a top surface engaging thetop wall and traversing the elongated plate lengthwise between the first support wall and the second support wall.21 . The independent wheel suspension of the previous claim wherein at least a portion of the bottom surface of the fourth support wall is arched or recessed, and / or is spaced apart from the first arm.

22. The independent wheel suspension of any previous claim, the elongated plate further comprising a fifth support wall positioned between the first support wall and the second support wall, having a top surface engaging the top wall and having an orientation that is not parallel to or that is transverse to an axis extending through the first location and the second location.

23. The independent wheel suspension of any one of claims 1 - 17, the elongated plate further comprising a third support wall, a fourth support wall and a fifth support wall engaging the top plate, the third support wall and the fourth support wall spaced apart and oriented in parallel to one another, the fifth support wall positioned between the first support wall and the second support wall, and between the third support wall and the fourth support wall, and having a first end engaging the third support wall and a second end engaging the fourth support wall.

24. The independent wheel suspension of any one of the previous three two claims, the fifth support wall having a bottom surface and wherein at least a portion of the bottom surface of the fifth support wall engages the first arm.

25. The independent wheel suspension of any of the previous three claims wherein at least a portion of the bottom surface of the fifth support wall is arched or recessed, and / or is spaced apart from the first arm.

26. The independent wheel suspension of any previous claim, the elongated plate secured to the first arm by a plurality of fasteners received in a corresponding plurality of fastener bores extending through the elongated plate extending from the top surface through the bottom surface thereof in registration with corresponding fastener bores defined in the first arm.

27. The independent wheel suspension of any previous claim wherein the elongated plate top wall, first support wall and second support wall partially define a cavity between the first support wall and the second support wall.

28. The independent wheel suspension of any previous claim wherein the lower arm first end is positioned at least partially in a cavity defined at least partially by the elongated plate first support wall and top wall.

29. The independent wheel suspension of any previous claim wherein the upper arm first end is positioned at least partially in a cavity defined at least partially by the elongated plate second support wall and top wall.

30. The independent wheel suspension of any previous claim wherein the lower arm first end and the upper arm first end are each positioned at least partially in a cavity or recess defined by a surface of the first arm facing the elongated plate.31 . The independent wheel suspension of any one of claims 4 or 5 or any claim depending from claim 4 or 5, wherein a fastener intersecting the bore of the lower arm first end or the upper arm first end assists in limiting rotational movement and / or axial movement of the respective pin received therein.

32. The independent wheel suspension of any previous claim wherein the upper suspension member comprises a cast metal.

33. The independent wheel suspension of any previous claim, wherein the spring mount of the upper suspension member is positioned at an end of a second arm extending from the second side of the upper suspension member.

34. The independent wheel suspension of any previous claim, wherein the spring is attached to the spring mount of the upper suspension member and is attached to the second end of the lower arm.

35. The independent wheel suspension of any previous claim wherein the spring comprises a coil spring or an air spring.

36. The independent wheel suspension of any previous claim wherein the wheel motor is a hydraulic motor or an electric motor.

37. The independent wheel suspension of any previous claim, wherein the first wheel motor linkage arm extends generally vertically beneath the wheel motor mount.

38. The independent wheel suspension of any previous claim, wherein the upper arm is curved.

39. The independent wheel suspension of any previous claim wherein the lower arm is curved.

40. The independent wheel suspension of any previous claim, wherein the upper suspension member is attached to the vehicle frame.41 . The independent wheel suspension of any previous claim, wherein the independent wheel suspension comprises a four-link independent vehicle suspension having:a first joint at a pivot point between the first arm secured to the elongated plate and the first end of the lower arm; a second joint at a pivot point between the lower arm and the first end of the wheel motor linkage arm; a third joint at a pivot point between the second end of the upper arm and the wheel motor mount; and a fourth joint at a pivot point between the first end of the upper arm and the first arm secured to the elongated plate.

42. The independent wheel suspension of any previous claim, the first arm having a distal end extending below the second location, the first arm presenting an upwardly facing surface comprising a rebound stop on the first arm below the first joint limiting pivotal movement of the lower arm at the first joint when the lower arm pivots at the first joint in a manner lowering the lower arm in relation to the first arm, bringing a bottom surface of the lower arm spaced apart and in registration with the rebound stop into contact with the rebound stop to limit further pivotal movement of the lower suspension art at the first joint that would lower the lower arm.

43. The independent wheel suspension of any previous claim, the first wheel motor mount bracket having an inner periphery defining an interior space to accommodate the wheel motor and wheel motor mount intended for attachment to the independent wheel suspension, the inner periphery defining a plurality of bores in registration with corresponding bores of the wheel motor to receive a corresponding plurality of fasteners for securing the wheel motor mount secured to the wheel motor to the independent wheel suspension.

44. The independent wheel suspension of the previous claim comprising a second wheel motor linkage arm having a first end, a second end and positioned between the first end and second end, a bracket presenting an engagement surface contacting the inner periphery of the first wheel motor bracket and defining a plurality of bores in registration with at least several of the plurality of bores of the inner periphery of the first wheel motor bracket to receive fasteners for securing the wheel motor mount secured to the wheel motor to the independent wheel suspension.

45. The independent wheel suspension of any previous claim comprising a wheel motor mount secured to a wheel motor, wherein the first wheel motor linkage arm is an extension of the wheel motor mount.

46. The independent wheel suspension of any one of claims 1 - 44 comprising a wheel motor mount secured to a wheel motor, wherein the wheel motor mount is integrally formed with the first wheel motor linkage arm.

47. The independent wheel suspension of any one of claims 1 - 44 wherein the wheel motor mount is attached to a wheel of the vehicle.

48. The independent wheel suspension of any previous claim, wherein the first, second, and third planes are coplanar.

49. The independent wheel suspension of any previous claim, wherein the second wheel motor linkage arm comprises a flange extending from the wheel motor mount.

50. A method of assembling an independent wheel suspension for use in a vehicle comprising providing an upper suspension member having an upper end and a first arm, the first arm having a first end and a second end, the first arm extending from a first side of the upper suspension member, the first arm first end and second end positioned in a first plane extending parallel to a longitudinal axis of the vehicle, the upper suspension member further comprising a spring mount positioned on a second side of the upper suspension member, the spring mount attached to a top of a spring, providing a lower arm extending longitudinally and having a first end and a second end, providing an upper arm extending longitudinally and having a first end and a second end, providing an elongated plate comprising a top wall, a first support wall and a second support wall, the top wall having a first end portion and a second end portion, the first support wall and the second support wall each having a top surface and a bottom surface, the top surface of the first support wall engaging a first end portion of the top wall, the top surface of the second support wall engaging a second endportion of the top wall, the first support wall at least partially surrounding a first location of the top wall where the first end of the lower arm will be pivotally attached, the second support wall at least partially surrounding a second location of the top wall where the first end of the upper arm will be pivotally attached, positioning and pivotally attaching the lower arm first end between and to the first arm and the elongated plate, wherein the first end and the second end of the lower arm are positioned in the first plane; positioning and pivotally attaching the upper arm first end between and to the first arm and the elongated plate, wherein the upper arm first end and second end are positioned in a second plan extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle, where the second plan is parallel to or coplanar with the first plane, and providing a first wheel motor linkage arm having a first end and a second end and a wheel motor mount bracket therebetween, pivotally attaching the first end of the wheel motor linkage arm to the lower arm between the first end and the second end of the lower arm, pivotally attaching the upper arm second end to the second end of the first wheel motor linkage arm, the wheel motor mount bracket for receiving a wheel motor mount secured or securable to a wheel motor to position the wheel motor between the upper arm and the lower arm, wherein the first end and the second end of the first wheel motor linkage arm are positioned in a third plane extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle, and wherein the third plane is parallel to or coplanar with the first and second plane, and securing the elongated plate to the first arm with the use of a fastener wherein at least a portion of the bottom surface of the first support wall engages the first arm and at least portion of the bottom surface of the second support wall engages the first arm.51 . The method of the previous claim wherein the step of providing the lower arm extending longitudinally and having a first end and second end further comprises providing the lower arm first end with a pin received therein about which the lower arm first end will pivot after assembly of the independent wheel suspension is completed, which step occurs before the step of providing the elongated plate.

52. The method of any one of the previous two claims wherein the step of providing the upper arm lower arm extending longitudinally and having a first end and second end further comprises providing the upper arm first end with a pin received therein about which the upper arm first end will pivot after assembly of the independent wheel suspension is completed.

53. The method any one of the previous three claims wherein the step of securing the elongated plate to the first arm occurs after providing either the lower arm first end with a pin received therein or after providing the upper arm first end with a pin received therein.

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