FORM – 2
THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 of 1970)
&
THE PATENTS RULES, 2003
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(See section 10 and rule 13)
MULTI-AXIS COMPLIANT PANHARD ROD SYSTEM FOR COMMERCIAL
VEHICLE AIR SUSPENSION
Applicant(s):
VE COMMERCIAL VEHICLES LTD
102, INDUSTRIAL AREA 1, PITHAMPUR- 454775, DIST. DHAR, MP, INDIA
Inventors:
Ashutosh Dubey
Suyash Gupta
Krishna Srikanth Achanta
Sanket Prakash Kadale
The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner in which it
is to be performed.
2
MULTI-AXIS COMPLIANT PANHARD ROD SYSTEM FOR
COMMERCIAL VEHICLE AIR SUSPENSION
FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0001] This invention generally relates to vehicle suspension systems, and more
particularly to a panhard rod system for commercial vehicle suspensions that5
provides controlled longitudinal movement and rotational accommodation of the
panhard rod relative to a vehicle frame while maintaining lateral alignment and
stiffness of a vehicle axle.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The subject matter discussed in the background section should not be10
assumed to be prior art merely as a result of its mention in the background section.
Similarly, a problem mentioned in the background section or associated with the
subject matter of the background section should not be assumed to have been
previously recognized in the prior art. The subject matter in the background section
merely represents different approaches, which in and of themselves may also15
correspond to implementations of the claimed technology.
[0003] The present invention addresses problems associated with panhard rod
systems used in commercial vehicle air suspension assemblies. In real-world
operating conditions, a vehicle axle does not move strictly in a vertical direction
during suspension travel. Instead, the axle undergoes a combination of vertical20
displacement caused by suspension compression and rebound, along with
longitudinal and rotational displacement resulting from axle roll, road irregularities,
and air bag articulation. When these multi-axis movements are constrained,
undesirable forces are generated within the suspension system, leading to increased
stress, reduced durability, and compromised vehicle performance.25
[0004] Conventional panhard rod systems are typically designed to permit only
vertical movement of the panhard rod relative to the vehicle frame and axle. Such
systems rely on rigid mountings and fixed bushings that restrict longitudinal and
rotational motion of the axle. As a result, any non-vertical axle movement induces
parasitic twisting and bending loads on the panhard rod, its brackets, and associated30
bushings. These excessive loads lead to premature failure of the panhard rod or its
3
mountings, accelerated wear of joints and bushings, reduced service life of
suspension components, increased maintenance requirements, and deterioration of
vehicle stability and ride performance.
[0005] Another the patent application, “US7077410B2,” titled “Vehicle suspension
system,” describes “A suspension system connects a wheel axle to a vehicle frame5
and includes a trailing arm connected at one end to the wheel axle. A pair of
extension members are connected to the other end of the trailing arm and extend
laterally in opposite directions along a pivot axis perpendicular to the longitudinal
axis of the arm. A pair of supports extend along the pivot axis and are connected to
the frame and rotatably connected to the extension member to permit pivotal10
movement of the trailing arm with respect to the frame about the pivot axis. The
supports and extension members are dimensioned to provide a gap between the
supports and extension members. A pair of resiliently deformable bearing members
are interposed between the extension members and the supports in the gap. The gap
and the bearing members are of sufficient width to permit limited rotational15
movement of the axle with respect to the frame about a vertical axis.”
[0006] Another patent application, "EP1673241B1," titled "Motor vehicle,"
describes “A motor vehicle, especially a utility vehicle, with a vehicle chassis (3) as
well as with a rear axle arrangement (2) having a rigid axle (1). A Panhard rod (8)
for supporting lateral forces or a control arm for supporting longitudinal forces is20
arranged between the vehicle chassis (3) and the rigid axle (1). The motor vehicle
has the Panhard rod (8), which is directly articulated to the vehicle chassis (3) with
an axial joint (11) in a pivotingly movable manner or by a control arm. The Panhard
rod (8) is articulated to the rigid axle directly with an axial joint (11) in a pivotingly
movable manner.”25
[0007] No prior art discloses or provides a controlled longitudinal sliding in
combination with maintained lateral stiffness and rotational accommodation.
Conventional designs either prioritize lateral axle location at the expense of
compliance or rely on flexible bushings that do not adequately manage multi-axis
axle movement and stress distribution. None of the known prior arts disclose a30
panhard rod system incorporating engineered sliding interfaces and resilient
4
elements that enable controlled axial movement while simultaneously reducing
torsional stress and improving suspension durability.
[0008] Therefore, there exists need for an improved panhard rod system that
accommodates the natural multi-axis movements of modern commercial vehicle air
suspension systems without inducing stress concentrations or compromising axle5
stability.
OBJECTIVES OF THE INVENTION
[0009] An objective of the present invention is to provide a panhard rod system for
a commercial vehicle suspension.
[0010] Furthermore, an objective of the present invention is to provide a method of10
providing controlled longitudinal movement and rotational accommodation of a
panhard rod relative to a vehicle frame while maintaining lateral stiffness of an axle.
[0011] Furthermore, an objective of the present invention is to enable controlled
longitudinal movement and rotational accommodation of a panhard rod relative to
a vehicle frame while maintaining effective lateral alignment and stiffness of a15
vehicle axle.
[0012] Furthermore, an objective of the present invention is to reduce torsional and
bending stresses acting on the panhard rod, its mounting brackets, and associated
bushings during suspension articulation caused by road irregularities, axle roll, and
air suspension operation.20
[0013] Furthermore, an objective of the present invention is to improve the
durability, reliability, and service life of suspension components by minimizing
stress concentration, joint wear, and premature structural failure enhance ride
comfort and vehicle stability by absorbing vibrations and dynamic loads through
resilient sliding and damping elements within the panhard rod mounting system.25
[0014] Furthermore, an objective of the present invention is to reduce maintenance
requirements by eliminating metal-to-metal contact and the need for periodic
lubrication or frequent bushing replacement in the panhard rod assembly.
SUMMARY
[0015] The present invention relates to a panhard rod system for a commercial30
vehicle suspension.
5
[0016] According to an aspect, the present invention discloses a panhard rod system
for a commercial vehicle suspension, comprising: a panhard rod assembly
configured to laterally locate an axle relative to a vehicle frame; a frame-end mount
bracket fixed to the vehicle frame and comprising an internal sliding channel; an
axle-end mount bracket fixed to the axle and configured to permit rotational5
compliance of the panhard rod assembly; a sliding assembly disposed within the
frame-end mount bracket, the sliding assembly comprising at least two polyurethane
washers positioned on opposite sides of an end portion of the panhard rod assembly;
and a fastener assembly passing through the panhard rod assembly and the
polyurethane washers, wherein the sliding assembly permits controlled longitudinal10
movement and rotational accommodation of the panhard rod assembly relative to
the frame while maintaining lateral stiffness of the axle, thereby reducing torsional
and bending stresses induced during suspension articulation.
[0017] According to another aspect, the present invention discloses a method of
providing controlled longitudinal movement and rotational accommodation of a15
panhard rod assembly relative to a vehicle frame while maintaining lateral stiffness
of an axle. Further, the method comprises a step of laterally locating the axle relative
to the vehicle frame using a panhard rod assembly. Further, the method comprises
a step of securing a first end of the panhard rod assembly to the vehicle frame
through a frame-end mount bracket having an internal sliding channel. Further, the20
method comprises a step of positioning at least two polyurethane washers on
opposite sides of the panhard rod assembly within the sliding channel. Further, the
method comprises a step of securing a second end of the panhard rod assembly to
the axle through an axle-end mount bracket permitting rotational compliance.
Further, the method comprises a step of allowing the panhard rod assembly to25
undergo controlled longitudinal displacement and rotational adjustment within the
frame-end mount bracket during suspension articulation. Further, the controlled
displacement occurs through elastic compression of the polyurethane washers to
absorb dynamic loads while preserving lateral alignment of the axle.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS30
6
[0018] The accompanying drawings illustrate various embodiments of systems,
methods, and embodiments of various other aspects of the disclosure. Any person
with ordinary skills in the art will appreciate that the illustrated element boundaries
(e.g., boxes, groups of boxes, or other shapes) in the figures represent one example
of the boundaries. It may be that in some examples one element may be designed as5
multiple elements or that multiple elements may be designed as one element. In
some examples, an element shown as an internal component of one element may be
implemented as an external component in another, and vice versa. Furthermore,
elements may not be drawn to scale. Non-limiting and non-exhaustive descriptions
are described with reference to the following drawings. The components in the10
figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating
principles.
[0019] FIG. 1 illustrates an exploded view of a panhard rod system for a commercial
vehicle suspension, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0020] FIG. 2 illustrates another exploded view of the panhard rod system for the15
commercial vehicle suspension, according to an embodiment of the present
disclosure;
[0021] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the panhard rod system for the
commercial vehicle suspension, according to an embodiment of the present
disclosure;20
[0022] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of a panhard rod assembly associated
with the panhard rod system for the commercial vehicle suspension, according to an
embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0023] FIG. 5 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the panhard rod system for the
commercial vehicle suspension, according to an embodiment of the present25
disclosure; and
[0024] FIG. 6 illustrates a flowchart showing a method of providing controlled
longitudinal movement and rotational accommodation of the panhard rod relative to
a vehicle frame while maintaining lateral stiffness of an axle, according to an
embodiment of the present disclosure.30
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
7
[0025] Some embodiments of this disclosure, illustrating all its features, will now
be discussed in detail. The words “comprising,” “having,” “containing,” and
“including,” and other forms thereof, are intended to be equivalent in meaning and
be open ended in that an item or items following any one of these words is not meant
to be an exhaustive listing of such item or items or meant to be limited to only the5
listed item or items. It must also be noted that as used herein and in the appended
claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references unless the
context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0026] Although any systems and methods similar or equivalent to those described
herein can be used in the practice or testing of embodiments of the present10
disclosure, the preferred, systems and methods are now described. Embodiments of
the present disclosure will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the
accompanying drawings in which like numerals represent like elements throughout
the several figures, and in which example embodiments are shown. Embodiments
of the claims may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not15
be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. The examples set forth
herein are non-limiting examples and are merely examples among other possible
examples.
[0027] The present invention discloses various embodiments of a panhard rod
system for a commercial vehicle suspension. Embodiments of the present invention20
may comprise a panhard rod assembly configured to laterally locate an axle relative
to a vehicle frame. Embodiments of the present invention may comprise a frame-
end mount bracket fixed to the vehicle frame and comprising an internal sliding
channel. Embodiments of the present invention may comprise an axle-end mount
bracket fixed to the axle and configured to permit rotational compliance of the25
panhard rod assembly. Embodiments of the present invention may comprise a
sliding assembly disposed within the frame-end mount bracket, the sliding assembly
comprising at least two polyurethane washers positioned on opposite sides of an end
portion of the panhard rod assembly. Embodiments of the present invention may
comprise a fastener assembly passing through the panhard rod assembly and the30
polyurethane washers. Further, the sliding assembly permits controlled longitudinal
8
movement and rotational accommodation of the panhard rod assembly relative to
the frame while maintaining lateral stiffness of the axle, thereby reducing torsional
and bending stresses induced during suspension articulation.
[0028] FIG. 1 illustrates an exploded view of a panhard rod system (100) for a
commercial vehicle suspension, according to an embodiment of the present5
disclosure. FIG. 2 illustrates another exploded view of the panhard rod system (100)
for the commercial vehicle suspension, according to an embodiment of the present
disclosure. FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the panhard rod system (100) for
the commercial vehicle suspension, according to an embodiment of the present
disclosure. FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of a panhard rod assembly10
associated with the panhard rod system (100) for the commercial vehicle
suspension, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 illustrates
a cross-sectional view of the panhard rod system (100) for the commercial vehicle
suspension, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0029] The present invention discloses a panhard rod system (100) for a commercial15
vehicle suspension comprising a panhard rod assembly (102), a frame-end mount
bracket (104), an axle-end mount bracket (106), a sliding assembly (108) and a
fastener assembly (112).
[0030] In some embodiments the panhard rod system (100) comprises the panhard
rod assembly (102) configured to laterally locate an axle relative to a vehicle frame.20
The panhard rod assembly (102) keeps the vehicle axle properly positioned from
side to side with respect to the vehicle frame. The panhard rod assembly (102) acts
as a connecting link between the axle and the frame, preventing unwanted lateral
movement of the axle during vehicle operation while still allowing the suspension
to move as required. This lateral locating function helps maintain axle alignment,25
improves vehicle stability, and ensures consistent handling performance during
driving, braking, and cornering.
[0031] In some embodiments, the panhard rod system (100) comprises the frame-
end mount bracket (104) that is securely fixed to the vehicle frame and serves as a
supporting structure for one end of the panhard rod assembly (102). The frame-end30
mount bracket (104) is designed to withstand operational loads transmitted from the
9
axle while maintaining a stable connection to the vehicle frame. The frame-end
mount bracket (104) provides a guided interface for the panhard rod assembly (102),
ensuring that the panhard rod assembly (102) remains properly positioned during
suspension movement. By anchoring the panhard rod assembly (102) at the frame
side, the frame-end mount bracket (104) plays a key role in maintaining lateral5
alignment of the axle relative to the vehicle frame during normal driving and
dynamic operating conditions.
[0032] In some embodiments, the frame-end mount bracket (104) comprises an
internal sliding channel formed within the bracket structure. The internal sliding
channel is configured to allow limited axial displacement of the panhard rod10
assembly (102) in a longitudinal direction parallel to the direction of vehicle travel.
The controlled axial movement enables the panhard rod assembly (102) to
accommodate longitudinal and rotational axle movements that occur during
suspension articulation, road irregularities, and air suspension operation. By
allowing this guided sliding motion, the internal sliding channel reduces the buildup15
of torsional and bending stresses in the panhard rod assembly (102) and associated
mounting components.
[0033] In some embodiments, the frame-end mount bracket (104) further includes
a retainer ring (404) and a clamp (116) arranged within or adjacent to the internal
sliding channel. These components are configured to retain polyurethane washers20
(110) in their intended positions on opposite sides of the panhard rod assembly (102)
end while still permitting controlled axial sliding movement. The retainer ring (404)
and clamp (116) prevent displacement or misalignment of the washers during
repeated suspension cycles. At the same time, they allow the washers to elastically
compress and expand, ensuring smooth sliding motion, effective load distribution,25
and long-term durability of the mounting assembly.
[0034] In some embodiments, the panhard rod system (100) includes the axle-end
mount bracket (106) that is securely fixed to the vehicle axle and provides a
connection point for one end of the panhard rod assembly (102). The axle-end mount
bracket (106) is designed to hold the panhard rod assembly (102) firmly in place30
while allowing the suspension to operate smoothly under varying driving
10
conditions. The axle-end mount bracket (106) supports the loads transferred
between the axle and the panhard rod assembly (102) and helps maintain proper axle
positioning during vehicle movement. By providing a stable yet adaptable
connection, the axle-end mount bracket (106) contributes to consistent axle
alignment and overall suspension performance.5
[0035] In some embodiments, the axle-end mount bracket (106) is configured to
permit rotational compliance of the panhard rod assembly (102) relative to the axle.
This means the panhard rod assembly (102) is allowed to rotate slightly as the axle
moves through different angles during suspension travel. Further, such rotational
accommodation is important because the axle experiences roll and angular changes10
due to road unevenness, braking, and air suspension operation. Further, allowing
controlled rotation prevents the panhard rod assembly (102) from being forced into
unnatural positions, thereby reducing twisting stresses and minimizing the risk of
component fatigue or failure.
[0036] In some embodiments, the axle-end mount bracket (106) includes a spherical15
bush bearing (114) and an inner sleeve (402) arranged within the axle-end mount
bracket (106). The spherical bush bearing (114) allows angular movement of the
panhard rod assembly (102) in multiple directions, while the inner sleeve (402)
provides structural support and load transfer. Together, the spherical bush bearing
(114) and the inner sleeve (402) enable smooth angular rotation of the panhard rod20
assembly (102) relative to the axle during suspension articulation. This arrangement
ensures that rotational forces are absorbed efficiently, enhances durability of the
joint, and reduces wear on the panhard rod assembly (102) and mounting
components over extended periods of operation.
[0037] In some embodiments, the panhard rod system (100) comprises the sliding25
assembly (108) arranged within the frame-end mount bracket (104), where the
sliding assembly (108) includes at least two polyurethane washers (110) positioned
on opposite sides of an end portion of the panhard rod assembly (102). The at least
two polyurethane washers (110) act as resilient interfaces between the panhard rod
assembly (102) and the mount bracket, allowing the rod to move slightly in a30
controlled manner. For example, when the axle shifts forward or backward due to
11
braking or road unevenness, the panhard rod assembly (102) end may slide between
the washers instead of being rigidly fixed, enabling smoother suspension movement.
[0038] In some embodiments, the at least two polyurethane washers (110) used in
the sliding assembly (108) have unequal thicknesses and are positioned on opposite
sides of the panhard rod assembly (102) end to provide an asymmetric elastic5
response during longitudinal displacement. For example, a thicker washer may be
placed on one side to absorb higher loads during compression, while a thinner
washer on the opposite side allows easier return movement. This difference in
thickness helps control the direction and extent of movement, ensuring that
longitudinal sliding remains limited, predictable, and well-damped during10
suspension articulation.
[0039] In some embodiments, the sliding assembly (108) prevents direct metal-to-
metal contact during longitudinal movement of the panhard rod assembly (102). The
at least two polyurethane washers (110) remain in contact with the panhard rod
assembly (102) and the both mount bracket throughout movement, acting as a15
protective buffer. For example, during repeated suspension cycles, the at least two
polyurethane washers (110) compress and recover elastically without allowing the
panhard rod assembly (102) to rub against the metal surfaces of the bracket. This
arrangement significantly reduces wear, eliminates the need for lubrication, and
improves long-term durability and maintenance-free operation of the panhard rod20
system (100).
[0040] In some embodiments, the sliding assembly (108) is configured to permit
controlled longitudinal movement and rotational accommodation of the panhard rod
assembly (102) relative to the vehicle frame while continuing to maintain lateral
stiffness of the axle. This means that the panhard rod assembly (102) is allowed to25
move slightly forward and backward and adjust its orientation as the suspension
articulates, without permitting side-to-side movement of the axle. By allowing these
controlled movements, the sliding assembly (108) prevents the panhard rod
assembly (102) from being forced into rigid alignment during axle roll or road-
induced motion. As a result, torsional and bending stresses that would otherwise30
12
build up in the panhard rod assembly (102) and its mounting brackets are
significantly reduced during suspension articulation.
[0041] In some embodiments, the panhard rod system (100) comprises the fastener
assembly (112) passing through the panhard rod assembly (102) and the at least two
polyurethane washers (110) to hold the components together in a secure and aligned5
manner. The fastener assembly (112), for example comprising a bolt, inner sleeve
(402), and lock nut (118), ensures that the panhard rod assembly (102) is properly
retained within the frame-end mount bracket (104) while still allowing controlled
sliding and elastic movement of the washers. This arrangement allows the at least
two polyurethane washers (110) to compress and expand around the fastener during10
longitudinal displacement, maintaining structural integrity of the connection while
enabling smooth, guided movement without loosening or misalignment during
suspension operation.
[0042] Further, the polyurethane washers (110) are configured to elastically
compress during longitudinal and rotational movement to absorb vibration and15
dynamic loads while providing a restoring force that returns the panhard rod
assembly (102) to a neutral position.
[0043] In an example embodiment, the polyurethane washers (110) include a first
washer having a thickness of approximately 20 mm and a second washer having a
thickness of approximately 10-15 mm.20
[0044] In some embodiments, the controlled longitudinal movement of the panhard
rod assembly (102) allows the panhard rod system (100) to accommodate axle roll
that occurs during cornering, uneven loading, and dynamic driving conditions.
When the axle rotates slightly about its axis, the panhard rod assembly (102) is able
to adjust its position through guided longitudinal movement rather than resisting the25
motion. This controlled adjustment prevents the buildup of torsional stress within
the panhard rod assembly (102) and its mounting points, allowing the suspension to
function smoothly without imposing excessive forces on the structural components.
[0045] In some embodiments, the controlled longitudinal movement further
accommodates road-induced displacement and air suspension articulation. As the30
vehicle travels over uneven road surfaces or as the air suspension inflates and
13
deflates, the axle experiences combined vertical and longitudinal movements. The
panhard rod assembly (102), through the sliding assembly (108), is able to respond
to these movements by sliding in a controlled manner while remaining laterally
stable. This capability ensures that suspension motions are absorbed rather than
resisted, thereby avoiding twisting loads that could otherwise lead to premature5
component failure.
[0046] In some embodiments, the panhard rod system (100) improves overall
suspension durability, enhances ride comfort, and reduces maintenance
requirements when compared to a conventional rigid panhard rod system (100). By
minimizing stress concentration, reducing joint wear, and preventing accelerated10
degradation of bushings, the panhard rod system (100) extends the service life of
suspension components. Additionally, the use of resilient sliding elements helps
absorb vibrations and dynamic loads, resulting in smoother ride characteristics. The
reduced need for lubrication and frequent part replacement further contributes to
lower maintenance demands and improved long-term reliability.15
[0047] FIG. 6 illustrates a flowchart showing a method (600) of providing
controlled longitudinal movement and rotational accommodation of the panhard rod
assembly (102) relative to a vehicle frame while maintaining lateral stiffness of an
axle, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0048] In some embodiments, the method (600) comprises a step (602) of laterally20
locating the axle relative to the vehicle frame using the panhard rod assembly (102).
This step (602) means using the panhard rod assembly (102) to keep the axle
properly positioned from side to side under the vehicle frame. The panhard rod
assembly (102) connects the axle to the frame and prevents the axle from shifting
left or right while the vehicle is moving. This helps maintain correct wheel25
alignment and ensures stable handling during driving, braking, and cornering.
[0049] By laterally locating the axle, the suspension may move up and down
smoothly without unwanted sideways motion. This improves vehicle stability and
safety, especially when the vehicle is carrying heavy loads or traveling on uneven
roads. The panhard rod assembly (102) plays a key role in controlling side30
movement while still allowing normal suspension operation.
14
[0050] In some embodiments, the method (600) comprises a step (604) of securing
a first end of the panhard rod assembly (102) to the vehicle frame through the frame-
end mount bracket (104) having the internal sliding channel. This step (604)
involves attaching one end of the panhard rod assembly (102) to the vehicle frame
using a specially designed frame-end mount bracket (104). The free-end mount5
bracket is fixed to the vehicle frame and provides a stable connection point for the
panhard rod assembly (102) while supporting the loads transferred during vehicle
operation.
[0051] The frame-end mount bracket (104) includes an internal sliding channel,
which allows the panhard rod assembly (102) end to move slightly in a controlled10
manner during suspension travel. By securing the panhard rod assembly (102)
through this sliding channel, the panhard rod system (100) ensures that the panhard
rod assembly (102) remains properly aligned while still allowing limited
longitudinal movement needed to accommodate real-world suspension motion.
[0052] In some embodiments, the method (600) comprises a step (606) of15
positioning the at least two polyurethane washers (110) on opposite sides of the
panhard rod assembly (102) within the internal sliding channel. This step (606)
involves placing the at least two polyurethane washers (110) on opposite sides of
the panhard rod assembly (102) within the internal sliding channel of the frame-end
mount bracket (104). The at least two polyurethane washers (110) are arranged so20
that the panhard rod assembly (102) is positioned between them, creating a
cushioned interface inside the bracket.
[0053] By positioning the at least two polyurethane washers (110) in this manner,
the panhard rod assembly (102) is allowed to move slightly in a controlled way
during suspension operation. The at least two polyurethane washers (110) absorb25
shocks and vibrations, guide the movement of the panhard rod assembly (102), and
prevent direct contact between metal parts, helping to reduce wear and improve
durability of the suspension system.
[0054] In some embodiments, the method (600) comprises a step (608) of securing
a second end of the panhard rod assembly (102) to the axle through the axle-end30
mount bracket (106) permitting rotational compliance. This step (608) involves
15
attaching the second end of the panhard rod assembly (102) to the vehicle axle using
an axle-end mount bracket (106). The axle-end mount bracket (106) is fixed to the
axle and provides a secure connection point that supports the loads transferred
between the axle and the panhard rod assembly (102) during vehicle operation.
[0055] The axle-end mount bracket (106) is designed to permit rotational5
compliance, allowing the panhard rod assembly (102) to rotate slightly as the axle
moves and changes angle during suspension travel. This controlled rotation helps
accommodate axle roll and articulation, reducing twisting stress on the panhard rod
assembly (102) and improving the overall durability and performance of the
suspension system.10
[0056] In some embodiments, the method (600) comprises a step (610) of allowing
the panhard rod assembly (102) to undergo controlled longitudinal displacement and
rotational adjustment within the frame-end mount bracket (104) during suspension
articulation. This step (610) involves allowing the panhard rod assembly (102) to
move slightly forward and backward and to adjust its orientation within the frame-15
end mount bracket (104) as the suspension moves. During suspension articulation,
such as when the vehicle travels over uneven roads or the axle rolls, the panhard rod
assembly (102) is not forced to remain rigidly fixed.
[0057] By permitting this controlled longitudinal displacement and rotational
adjustment, the panhard rod system (100) accommodates natural suspension20
movement without creating excessive stress. This helps prevent twisting and
bending loads on the panhard rod assembly (102) and its mounting components,
resulting in smoother suspension operation and improved component durability.
[0058] Further, the controlled displacement occurs through elastic compression of
the polyurethane washers (110) to absorb dynamic loads while preserving lateral25
alignment of the axle. The forward and backward movement of the panhard rod
assembly (102) happens by slightly compressing the polyurethane washers (110)
placed around it. As the suspension moves and dynamic forces act on the axle, the
washers compress and absorb these loads instead of transferring them directly to the
metal parts.30
16
[0059] At the same time, the washers hold the panhard rod assembly (102) in its
correct side-to-side position, so the axle remains properly aligned with the vehicle
frame. This allows the panhard rod system (100) to reduce shocks and vibrations
while still maintaining lateral stability of the axle during suspension operation.
[0060] It has thus been seen the panhard rod system (100) for the vehicle, as5
described. The panhard rod system (100) in any case could undergo numerous
modifications and variants, all of which are covered by the same innovative concept;
moreover, all of the details can be replaced by technically equivalent elements. In
practice, the components used, as well as the numbers, shapes, and sizes of the
components can be whatever according to the technical requirements. The scope of10
protection of the invention is therefore defined by the attached claims.

CLAIMS

1. A panhard rod system (100) for a commercial vehicle suspension,
comprising:
a panhard rod assembly (102) configured to laterally locate an axle5
relative to a vehicle frame;
a frame-end mount bracket (104) fixed to the vehicle frame and
comprising an internal sliding channel;
an axle-end mount bracket (106) fixed to the axle and configured to
permit rotational compliance of the panhard rod assembly (102);10
a sliding assembly (108) disposed within the frame-end mount bracket
(104), the sliding assembly (108) comprising at least two polyurethane
washers (110) positioned on opposite sides of an end portion of the panhard
rod assembly (102); and
a fastener assembly (112) passing through the panhard rod assembly15
(102) and the at least two polyurethane washers (110),
wherein the sliding assembly (108) permits controlled longitudinal
movement and rotational accommodation of the panhard rod assembly
(102) relative to the frame while maintaining lateral stiffness of the axle,
thereby reducing torsional and bending stresses induced during suspension20
articulation.
2. The panhard rod system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the internal
sliding channel of the frame-end mount bracket (104) is configured to allow
limited axial displacement of the panhard rod assembly (102) in a
longitudinal direction parallel to vehicle travel.25
3. The panhard rod system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least
two polyurethane washers (110) comprise washers of unequal thickness
positioned on opposite sides of the panhard rod assembly (102) end to
provide asymmetric elastic response during longitudinal displacement.
4. The panhard rod system (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the at least5
two polyurethane washers (110) include a first washer having a thickness of
approximately 20 mm and a second washer having a thickness of
approximately 10–15 mm.
5. The panhard rod system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least
two polyurethane washers (110) are configured to elastically compress10
during longitudinal and rotational movement to absorb vibration and
dynamic loads while providing a restoring force that returns the panhard rod
assembly (102) to a neutral position.
6. The panhard rod system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the axle-end
mount bracket (106) comprises a spherical bush bearing (114) and an inner15
sleeve (402) to permit angular rotation of the panhard rod assembly (102)
relative to the axle during suspension articulation.
7. The panhard rod system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the sliding
assembly (108) prevents metal-to-metal contact during longitudinal
movement of the panhard rod assembly (102), thereby reducing wear and20
eliminating the need for lubrication.
8. The panhard rod system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the frame-end
mount bracket (104) further comprises a retainer ring (404) and a clamp
(116) configured to retain the polyurethane washers (110) within the sliding
channel while permitting controlled axial sliding.25
9. The panhard rod system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the controlled
longitudinal movement accommodates axle roll, road-induced
displacement, and air suspension articulation without inducing torsional
stress in the panhard rod assembly (102).
10. A method (600) of providing controlled longitudinal movement and
rotational accommodation of a panhard rod assembly (102) relative to a
vehicle frame while maintaining lateral stiffness of an axle, the method5
(600) comprising steps of:
laterally locating the axle relative to the vehicle frame using a
panhard rod assembly (102);
securing a first end of the panhard rod assembly (102) to the vehicle
frame through a frame-end mount bracket (104) having an internal sliding10
channel;
positioning at least two polyurethane washers (110) on opposite
sides of the panhard rod assembly (102) within the sliding channel;
securing a second end of the panhard rod assembly (102) to the axle
through an axle-end mount bracket (106) permitting rotational compliance;15
and
allowing the panhard rod assembly (102) to undergo controlled
longitudinal displacement and rotational adjustment within the frame-end
mount bracket (104) during suspension articulation,
wherein the controlled displacement occurs through elastic20
compression of the polyurethane washers (110) to absorb dynamic loads
while preserving lateral alignment of the axle.