FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a vehicle with four wheel steering, four wheel independent suspension, and proportional roll during cornering resulting in an improved driver comfort over adverse terrain.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Utility task vehicles or UTV's for short are typically used for recreation or transportation. They can be combustion engine or electrically driven. UTV's typically feature 4 large air filled rubber tires. A typical UTV has independent suspension, although some may feature solid axles. Most UTV's rely on front wheel steering similar to what is found in an automobile. They are well documented in the art.

Prior art design UTV's have provided good performance over rough surfaces, or smooth turns, but can be uncomfortable when rough surfaces are encountered while turning or when turning sharply at high speed. Centrifugal forces developed during such a turn cause the vehicle to roll outward opposite the direction of the turn, creating unwanted sway. As a countermeasure, it is common practice in prior art designs to add sway bars to minimize this roll effect on the vehicle. This however has a negative effect allowing bump forces from one side of the vehicle to be transferred to the other side. During rough or high speed turns, the driver of such vehicle naturally has a tendency to tilt the head, and lean the body into the turn within the confines of the seat. Although effective, this can become tiring and uncomfortable after some time resulting in fatigue.

The subject invention and embodiments has improved upon the limitations exhibited in prior art, with a different approach. The result is a device that enables the user to navigate all terrain with a feeling of integration, and comfort within the vehicle.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The subject invention and embodiments comprises of a method and apparatus for a four wheel roll steering device with four wheel independent suspension. The invention employs a frame system and independent suspension links, pivotally connected to the wheel assemblies. Furthermore, the subject invention and its embodiments are supported by a mechanically pivoting shock mount, providing both steering control and suspension attachment for the shock and spring. By mechanically rolling the entire chassis of the vehicle laterally into the turn, centrifugal forces experienced by the driver are reduced, resulting in a feeling of integration and comfort even in adverse terrain.

