The Toro Company

Richard T Cairns

Kip S Vangsgard

Kenneth R Parker

Jonathan P Van Dore

Darrell W Hinklin

Bart T Ellson

Dennis J Berndt

Rodney W Woock

An articulating vehicle ( ) includes a front axle ( ) operatively connected to a front frame ( ) and a rear axle ( ) is operatively connected to the rear frame ( ). A torsional joint ( ) has an inner shaft member ( ) operatively connected one of the frames and an outer hollow member ( ) operatively connected to the other of the frames. An elastomeric material ( ) is positioned between the inner member ( ) and outer member ( ). The elastic material ( ) connects the inner and outer members, whereby the frames may rotate relative to each other along the longitudinal axis as the elastomeric member ( ) is compressed and resiliently resists rotation between the frames ( and ). A torsional energy absorption suspension is provided for one of the wheels. The suspension includes a torsional joint ( ), a single A-frame member ( ). A lever arm ( ) may also be utilized to vary the preload on the torsional joint ( ).

Vehicle having a torsional suspension and torsional joint

Vehicle

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Wayzata, MN, United States of America

Richard T Cairns