Patent Publication Number: US-9895952-B2

Title: Two-stage sway bar

Description:
INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     Any and all applications identified in a priority claim in the Application Data Sheet, or any correction thereto, are hereby incorporated by reference herein and made a part of the present disclosure. This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/681,450, filed Apr. 8, 2015, which claims the priority benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/977,528 filed Apr. 9, 2014, the disclosure of each is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety and should be considered a part of this specification. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Field of the Invention 
     The present invention generally relates to sway bars. More particularly, the present invention relates to two-stage sway bars having a disengagable first stage. 
     Description of the Related Art 
     A sway bar is part of a vehicle&#39;s suspension system and can be referred to as a stabilizer bar. The sway bar reduces vehicle roll during certain maneuvers, such as during fast turns or while traversing certain terrain conditions. 
     Front and rear sway bars can be used to connect the front and rear wheels, respectively. The function of the sway bar is to transfer force from a first side of the vehicle to a second side of the vehicle. The sway bar typically includes a horizontal bar that extends laterally between the wheels. The bar resists torsion through its stiffness. 
     The stiffness, and therefore the anti-roll characteristics, is due in large part to the diameter of the sway bar. A larger diameter sway bar tends to keep the vehicle more level while a smaller diameter sway bar allows the body of the vehicle to roll more with the terrain or other maneuver. For certain operations, such a rock crawling, a smaller diameter sway bar is preferred over a larger diameter sway bar to allow the wheels of the vehicle to traverse the terrain. For other operations, such as everyday driving, a larger diameter sway bar is preferred to reduce vehicle roll. 
     Although sway bars have been in use for a significant period of time, there is a demand for continued improvement in the design and operation of sway bars, especially in sway bars intended for use in certain environments, such as off-road operation. For example, there is a constant push to reduce the stiffness of sway bars during certain driving conditions, while retaining functionality (including anti-roll characteristics) during other driving conditions. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     An embodiment is a sway bar assembly, including an outer sway bar having a first outer sway bar and a second outer sway bar. An inner sway bar is disposed within the outer sway bar. The first outer sway bar includes a first coupling and the second outer sway bar includes a second coupling, wherein the first coupling and the second coupling are configured to be joined or to mate. In some configurations, the sway bar includes a biasing element that biases the first coupling toward the second coupling such that the first coupling and the second coupling mate. A remote activator can be connected to the sway bar assembly. The remote activator can be configured to overcome the force of the biasing element to move the first coupling away from the second coupling such that the first coupling and the second coupling do not mate. 
     In some arrangements, the sway bar assembly includes engagement features. For example, the first outer sway bar includes an engagement feature configured to complement an engagement feature of the first coupling. The second outer sway bar can include an engagement feature configured to complement an engagement feature on the second coupling. In some embodiments, the engagement feature is a set of longitudinally extending spines on the outer surfaces of the first and second outer sway bars configured to complement a set of longitudinally extending spines on the inner surface of the first and second couplings. 
     In some arrangements, the first coupling and the second coupling are retained within a housing. The housing is sized and configured to permit sliding of the first coupling with respect to the first outer sway bar to disengage the first coupling from the second coupling. The housing is configured to accept an actuation fluid to move the first coupling relative to the second coupling. The sway bar assembly can include one or more seals that reduce or eliminate the likelihood of actuation fluid escape. The sway bar assembly can include one or more valves to discharge the actuation fluid. The sway bar assembly can include one or more inlets to accept the actuation fluid. In some embodiments, the actuation fluid is a liquid. In other embodiment, the actuation fluid is a gas. 
     In some configurations, a mounting arrangement has a first hubcap and a second hubcap configured to engage the inner sway bar. The inner sway bar may include an engagement feature to reduce or eliminate the likelihood of rotation of the inner sway bar with respect to the first hubcap and a second hubcap. The first hubcap may couple to a first linking arm and the second hubcap may couple to a second linking arm. The first linking arm can couple to the first outer sway bar and the second linking arm can couple to the second outer sway bar. The first linking arm and the first outer sway bar can include an engagement feature. The second linking arm and the second outer sway bar can include an engagement feature. 
     An embodiment involves a sway bar assembly, including an outer sway bar comprising a first outer sway bar and a second outer sway bar. The sway bar includes an inner sway bar within the outer sway bar. The sway bar assembly includes a first coupling and a second coupling. A mounting arrangement permits the sway bar assembly to be mounted relative to a set of wheels. The mounting arrangement comprises a first hubcap and a second hubcap coupled to the inner sway bar. A position of the first coupling is adjustable in a longitudinal direction of the sway bar to permit the disengagement of the first coupling and the second coupling. The first coupling is movable against a biasing force to disengage the second coupling. 
     In some arrangements, the first coupling has a first set of dogs. The second coupling has a second set of dogs. The first set of dogs of the first coupling are configured engage recesses defined within the second set of dogs of the second coupling. The first set of dogs can be unitarily formed with the first coupling. The second set of dogs can be unitarily formed with the second coupling. 
     In some embodiments, a sway bar assembly is provided. The sway bar assembly can include an outer sway bar assembly. The outer sway bar assembly can include a first outer sway bar, a first coupling portion connected to the first outer sway bar, a second outer sway bar, a second coupling portion connected to the second outer sway bar. The first coupling portion and the second coupling portion can disengagably mate. The sway bar assembly can include a biasing element that biases the first coupling portion toward the second coupling portion such that the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion mate. The sway bar assembly can include inner sway bar disposed within the outer sway bar assembly. 
     The sway bar assembly can include a remote activator configured to overcome the force of the biasing element to move the first coupling portion away from the second coupling portion such that the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion are separated. The sway bar assembly can include an engagement feature preventing the rotation of the first coupling portion relative to the first outer sway bar. The sway bar assembly can include an engagement feature preventing the rotation of the second coupling portion relative to the second outer sway bar. The sway bar assembly can include a housing, wherein the housing contains the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion. In some embodiments, the housing is sized to permit the sliding of the first coupling portion with respect to the first outer sway bar to disengage the first coupling portion from the second coupling portion. In some embodiments, the housing is configured to accept an actuation fluid to move the first coupling portion relative to the second coupling portion. In some embodiments, the sway bar assembly comprises one or more seals that prevent the escape of the actuation fluid. In some embodiments, the sway bar assembly includes one or more ports through which actuation fluid can pass in and out of the housing. In some embodiments, the actuation fluid is liquid. In some embodiments, the actuation fluid is gas. The sway bar assembly can include a first hubcap and a second hubcap configured to engage the inner sway bar. In some embodiments, the inner sway bar comprises an anti-rotation feature to prevent rotation of the inner sway bar with respect to the first hubcap and the second hubcap. 
     In some embodiments, a sway bar assembly is provided. The sway bar assembly can include an outer sway bar assembly. The outer sway bar assembly can include a first outer sway bar, a first coupling portion coupled to the first outer sway bar, a second outer sway bar, and a second coupling portion coupled to the second outer sway bar. The sway bar assembly can include an inner sway bar disposed within the outer sway bar assembly. The sway bar assembly can include a mounting arrangement to mount the sway bar assembly to a vehicle wherein the mounting arrangement comprises a first linking arm and a second linking arm coupled together through the inner sway bar and disengageably coupled together through the outer sway bar assembly. In some embodiments, the first coupling portion is movable against a biasing force to disengage from the second coupling portion. In some embodiments, the first coupling portion has a plurality of teeth and the second coupling portion has a corresponding plurality of teeth. In some embodiments, the teeth can be unitarily formed with the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion. 
     In some embodiments, a sway bar assembly is provided. The sway bar assembly can include an outer sway bar assembly. The outer sway bar assembly can include a first outer sway bar, a first coupling portion configured to longitudinally slide relative to the first outer sway bar, a second outer sway bar, and a second coupling portion. The sway bar assembly can include an inner sway bar disposed within the first outer sway bar and the second outer sway bar. 
     The sway bar assembly can include a mounting arrangement configured to mount the sway bar assembly to a vehicle wherein the mounting arrangement comprises a first linking arm and a second linking arm. In some embodiments, the first linking arm and the second linking arm are coupled together through the inner sway bar and disengageably coupled together through the outer sway bar assembly. The sway bar assembly can include a biasing element that biases the first coupling portion toward the second coupling portion such that the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion mate. The sway bar assembly can include a remote activator configured to overcome the force of the biasing element to move the first coupling portion away from the second coupling portion such that the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion are separated. The sway bar assembly can include a first engagement feature preventing the rotation of the first coupling portion relative to the first outer sway bar. In some embodiments, the first engagement feature comprises teeth. The sway bar assembly can include a second engagement feature preventing the rotation of the second coupling portion relative to the second outer sway bar. In some embodiments, the second engagement feature comprises teeth. In some embodiments, the teeth can be unitarily formed with the second coupling portion. The sway bar assembly can include a housing, wherein the housing encloses the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion. In some embodiments, the housing is sized to permit the sliding of the first coupling portion with respect to the first outer sway bar to disengage the first coupling portion from the second coupling portion. In some embodiments, the housing is configured to accept an actuation fluid to move the first coupling portion relative to the second coupling portion. In some embodiments, the sway bar assembly comprises one or more seals to prevent the escape of the actuation fluid. The sway bar assembly can include one or more ports through which the actuation fluid can pass in and out of the housing. In some embodiments, the actuation fluid is liquid. In some embodiments, the actuation fluid is gas. The sway bar assembly can include a first hubcap and a second hubcap configured to engage the inner sway bar. In some embodiments, the inner sway bar comprises an anti-rotation feature to prevent rotation of the inner sway bar with respect to the first hubcap and the second hubcap. In some embodiments, the first coupling portion includes dogs. In some embodiments, the second coupling portion includes dogs. In some embodiments, dogs can be unitarily formed with the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion. 
     In some embodiments, a sway bar assembly is provided. The sway bar assembly can include an outer sway bar assembly. The outer sway bar assembly can include a first outer sway bar, a first coupling portion configured to longitudinally slide relative to the first outer sway bar, a second outer sway bar, and a second coupling portion. The sway bar assembly can include a biasing element that biases the first coupling portion into engagement with the second coupling portion. 
     The sway bar assembly can include an inner sway bar disposed within the outer sway bar assembly. The sway bar assembly can include a mounting arrangement configured to mount the sway bar assembly to a vehicle wherein the mounting arrangement comprises a first linking arm and a second linking arm. In some embodiments, the first linking arm and the second linking arm are coupled together through the inner sway bar and disengageably coupled together through the outer sway bar assembly. The sway bar assembly can include a remote activator configured to overcome the force of the biasing element to move the first coupling portion away from the second coupling portion such that the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion are separated. The sway bar assembly can include a first engagement feature preventing the rotation of the first coupling portion relative to the first outer sway bar. The sway bar assembly can include a second engagement feature preventing the rotation of the second coupling portion relative to the second outer sway bar. The sway bar assembly can include a housing, wherein the housing encloses the first coupling portion and the second coupling portion. In some embodiments, the housing is sized to permit the sliding of the first coupling portion with respect to the first outer sway bar to disengage the first coupling portion from the second coupling portion. In some embodiments, the housing is configured to accept an actuation fluid to move the first coupling portion relative to the second coupling portion. In some embodiments, the sway bar assembly comprises one or more seals to prevent the escape of the actuation fluid. In some embodiments, the sway bar assembly includes one or more ports through which actuation fluid can pass in and out of the housing. In some embodiments, the actuation fluid is liquid. In some embodiments, the actuation fluid is gas. The sway bar assembly can include a first hubcap and a second hubcap configured to engage the inner sway bar. In some embodiments, the inner sway bar comprises an anti-rotation feature to prevent rotation of the inner sway bar with respect to the first hubcap and the second hubcap. 
     In some embodiments, a method of using a sway bar assembly is provided. The method can include the step of coupling an inner sway bar with a first linking arm and a second linking arm. The method can include the step of coupling a first outer sway bar with the first linking arm. The method can include the step of coupling a first coupling portion with the first outer sway bar. The method can include the step of coupling a second outer sway bar with the second linking arm. The method can include the step of coupling a second coupling portion with the second outer sway bar. The method can include the step of sliding the first coupling portion relative to the first outer sway bar. The method can include the step of disengaging the first coupling portion from the second coupling portion. 
     The method can include the step of substantially preventing rotation of the inner sway bar relative to the first linking arm and the second linking arm. The method can include the step of substantially preventing rotation of the first coupling portion relative to the first outer sway bar. The method can include the step of substantially preventing rotation of the second coupling portion relative to the second outer sway bar. In some embodiments, sliding the first coupling portion relative to the first outer sway bar further comprises overcoming a biasing force. In some embodiments, sliding the first coupling portion relative to the first outer sway bar further comprises exerting a pressure on the first coupling portion with a fluid. The method can include the step of releasing the fluid. In some embodiments, disengaging the first coupling portion with the second coupling portion further comprises disengaging dogs of the first coupling portion with dogs of the second coupling portion. The method can include the step of disposing the inner sway bar within the first outer sway bar and the second outer sway bar. In some embodiments, after disengaging the first coupling portion with the second coupling portion, the first outer sway bar and the second outer sway bar do not transmit torque. The method can include the step of engaging the first coupling portion with the second coupling portion such that the first outer sway bar and the second outer sway bar transmit torque as if the first outer sway bar and the second outer sway bar were unitarily formed. In some embodiments, sliding the first coupling portion relative to the first outer sway bar further comprises sliding the first coupling portion away from the second coupling portion. In some embodiments, sliding the first coupling portion relative to the first outer sway bar further comprises sliding the first coupling portion toward the second coupling portion. 
     In some embodiments, a method of using a sway bar assembly is provided. The method can include the step of coupling an inner sway bar with a first linking arm and a second linking arm. The method can include the step of coupling a first outer sway bar assembly with the first linking arm. The method can include the step of coupling a second outer sway bar assembly with the second linking arm. The method can include the step of engaging the first outer sway bar assembly with the second outer sway bar assembly such that the first outer sway bar assembly and the second outer sway bar assembly transmit torque. The method can include the step of disengaging the first outer sway bar assembly from the second outer sway bar assembly such that the inner sway bar transmits torque. 
     In some embodiments, engaging the first outer sway bar assembly with the second outer sway bar assembly further comprises biasing a portion of the first outer sway bar assembly toward the second outer sway bar assembly. In some embodiments, engaging the first outer sway bar assembly with the second outer sway bar assembly further comprises releasing a fluid from a chamber. In some embodiments, engaging the first outer sway bar assembly with the second outer sway bar assembly further comprises engaging dogs of the first outer sway bar assembly with dogs of the second outer sway bar assembly. In some embodiments, engaging the first outer sway bar assembly with the second outer sway bar assembly further comprises transmit torque as if the first outer sway bar assembly and the second outer sway bar assembly were unitarily formed. In some embodiments, disengaging the first outer sway bar assembly with the second outer sway bar assembly further comprises exerting a pressure on a portion of the first outer sway bar assembly to overcome a biasing force. In some embodiments, disengaging the first outer sway bar assembly with the second outer sway bar assembly further comprises filling a chamber with fluid to move a portion of the first outer sway bar assembly relative to the second outer sway bar assembly. In some embodiments, disengaging the first outer sway bar assembly with the second outer sway bar assembly further comprises disengaging dogs of the first outer sway bar assembly with dogs of the second outer sway bar assembly. The method can include the step of disposing the inner sway bar within the first outer sway bar assembly and the second outer sway bar assembly. In some embodiments, disengaging the first outer sway bar assembly from the second outer sway bar assembly is performed remotely from within the cab of the vehicle. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present sway bar assemblies are described herein with reference to drawings of certain preferred embodiments, which are provided for the purpose of illustration and not limitation. The drawings contain twenty-one (21) figures. 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a sway bar assembly. 
         FIG. 2  is an exploded view of the sway bar assembly of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view of a first outer sway bar including a first coupling of the sway bar of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 4  is an exploded view of the first outer sway bar and the first coupling of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 5  is an exploded view of the first coupling of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 6  is a perspective view of the movable component of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 7  is a perspective view of the hub of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 8  is a perspective view of a second outer sway bar including a second coupling of the sway bar of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 9  is an exploded view of the second outer sway bar and the second coupling of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective view of the second coupling of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 11  is a perspective view of the housing of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective view of the first segment of the housing of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 13  is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the central segment of the housing taken along the line  11 - 11  of  FIG. 11 . 
         FIG. 14  is a perspective view of the second segment of the housing of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 15  is a perspective view of the first coupling and the second coupling of  FIG. 1  engaged with each other. 
         FIG. 16  is a side view of the first coupling and the second coupling of  FIG. 1  engaged. 
         FIG. 17  is a perspective view of the first coupling and the second coupling of  FIG. 1  disengaged. 
         FIG. 18  is a side view of the first coupling and the second coupling of  FIG. 1  disengaged. 
         FIG. 19  is a perspective view of a first hubcap and first linking arm of the sway bar of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 20  is a perspective view of a mounting plate and a mounting bracket coupled to the housing of the sway bar of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 21  is a perspective view of the mounting bracket and mounting plate of  FIG. 20 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Preferred embodiments of the sway bar assembly include two (or possibly more) sway bars used to alter stiffness and anti-roll characteristics of a vehicle. One or more of the two or more sway bars may include portions that also be referred to as bars, segments or portions herein. However, the use of the term “bar” does not imply any particular cross-sectional shape or configuration. The bar may be any suitable shape that permits the engaging and disengaging of a larger diameter sway bar which surrounds a smaller diameter sway bar. Certain embodiments are illustrated and/or described herein. 
     Typically, the sway bar assembly controls movement of one wheel relative to another wheel to stabilize the vehicle. The characteristics of the sway bar, including the diameter of the sway bar, will impact the anti-roll characteristics of the vehicle. Often a sway bar is provided that spans between two linking arms, which are mounted relative to the wheels or suspension components of the vehicle. For convenience, the sway bar assembly is referred to as having a driver side and a passenger side. The sway bar assembly has a longitudinal axis which extends from the driver side to the passenger side. These, and other relative terms (top, bottom, above, below, etc.) are used for convenience and with respect to the particular orientation shown in the referenced figures and are not intended to be limiting, unless otherwise indicated or made clear from the particular context. Thus, the sway bar assembly can also be used in other orientations, or adapted for use in orientations other than those illustrated. 
     The embodiments disclosed herein are well-suited for use in off-road environments. In off-road environments, it is usually preferable to minimize or eliminate the stiffness of the sway bar in order to better traverse the terrain. In contrast, in other conditions, it is usually preferable to minimize vehicle roll by using a sufficiently stiff sway bar. For example, a stiffer sway bar is well-suited for negotiating tighter turns. However, the disclosed embodiments can also be used in, or adapted for use in, other applications as well. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , a sway bar assembly  20  can include an outer sway bar  21  and an inner sway bar  23 . The outer sway bar  21  comprises a first outer sway bar  22  and a second outer sway bar  24  that can be engaged or disengaged to form a rigid body. The outer sway bar further includes a first coupling portion  26  and a second coupling portion  28 . One of the couplings  26 ,  28 , or a portion of one of the couplings  26 ,  28 , is movable relative to the other of the couplings  26 ,  28 . In the illustrated arrangement, a portion of the first coupling portion  26  is movable to engage or disengage the second coupling portion  28 . However, in other embodiments, this arrangement could be reversed such that the second coupling portion  28 , or a portion of the second coupling portion  28  could be movable. 
     The illustrated sway bar assembly  20  permits adjustment of the stiffness of the sway bar assembly  20  by engaging or disengaging a larger diameter sway bar. The adjustment can be initiated (and/or caused) from within the vehicle compartment. For example, the adjustment can be initiated through a switch or other mechanism accessible to the driver (e.g., within the cab of the vehicle). The adjustment can disengage the larger diameter sway bar. When the larger diameter sway bar is disengaged, a smaller diameter sway bar continues to stabilize the vehicle. When the larger diameter sway bar is engaged, both the larger diameter sway bar and the smaller diameter sway bar stabilize the vehicle. 
     The illustrated sway bar assembly  20  provides a default position that engages the larger diameter sway bar. The default position is that a first coupling portion  26  and a second coupling portion  28  are engaged or locked together. The default position provides anti-roll characteristics and a stiff sports-car feel for maneuvering on streets and the like. Because the default position engages the larger diameter sway bar, if a chamber that pressurizes to disengage the larger diameter sway bar leaks fluid or otherwise loses pressure, then the sway bar returns to the default (i.e., engaged) position. If the inlet or other features of the fluid exchange fail, then the sway bar remains or returns to the default (i.e., engaged) position. 
     In the illustrated configuration, the sway bar assembly  20  can be considered to feature a multi-stage sway bar. In some configurations, the sway bar assembly  20  can include a two stage sway bar. The first stage relies on both the inner, smaller diameter sway bar and the outer, larger diameter sway bar to provide stabilization. The second stage relies on only the inner, smaller diameter sway bar to provide stabilization and the outer, larger diameter sway bar is disengaged. The inner sway bar is more compliant, which does not impede articulation of the vehicle to the extent of the larger diameter sway bar. The sway bar assembly  20  can be adjusted from the first stage to the second stage and vice versa from inside the cab of the vehicle. In some embodiments, an activation mechanism can supply fluid to the sway bar assembly  20  to disengage the outer, larger diameter sway bar. The fluid can be discharged such that the sway bar assembly  20  returns to the default position (i.e., the outer, larger diameter sway bar engaged). 
     In the illustrated arrangement, the first outer sway bar  22  has a length that is substantially equal to a length of the second outer sway bar  24 . In some configurations, the first outer sway bar  22  and the second outer sway bar  24  have different lengths with one being shorter than the other. The first outer sway bar  22  and the second outer sway bar  24 , when combined, may equal a length of the inner sway bar  23  or may approximately equal the length of the inner sway bar  23 , keeping in mind a desire to provide two coaxial sway bars yet allow one of the sway bars to separate along its length. The first outer sway bar  22  and the second outer sway bar  24  may define a hollow circular cross section. The inner sway bar  23  may define a circular or hollow circular cross-section. Other configurations are possible. 
     In some configurations, one, or both, of the first outer sway bar  22  and the second outer sway bar  24  defines a diameter D O  that is greater than a diameter D I  of the inner sway bar  23 . For example, the diameter D O  can be 2 times greater than the diameter D I . For example, in some embodiments, the cross-sectional diameter of the inner sway bar (not including the hubcaps) is less than ¾ inch, less than ⅝ inches, less than ½ inch and, preferably, is ⅝ inches (or any value within the aforementioned range). The inner sway bar  23  can be solid. In some embodiments, the inner sway bar  23  provides a desired low level of vehicle stabilization. 
     The first outer sway bar  22  and the second outer sway bar  24  can be hollow to accept the inner sway bar  23  therein. The cross-sectional diameter of the outer sway bar (not including the couplings) is less than 1.50 inches, less than 1.25 inch, less than 1 inch and, preferably, is 1.25 inches (or any value within the aforementioned range). The wall thickness of the outer sway bar is less than 5/16 inches, less than ¼ inches, less than 3/16 inches, preferably, is ¼ inches (or any value within the aforementioned range). The inner diameter of the outer sway bar is less than ¾ inch, less than 11/16 inches, less than ⅝ inches, preferably, is 0.7 inches (or any value within the aforementioned range). 
     The sway bar assembly  20  illustrated in  FIGS. 1 and 2  is arranged and configured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of the present invention. In the illustrated arrangement, the sway bar assembly  20  includes three sway bar segments: the first outer sway bar  22 , the second outer sway bar  24 , and the inner sway bar  23 . The inner sway bar  23  is retained within the first outer sway bar  22  and the second outer sway bar  24 . In some embodiments, the inner sway bar  23  is coaxial within the first outer sway bar  22  and the second outer sway bar  24 . 
     The sway bar assembly  20  includes the first coupling portion  26  and the second coupling portion  28 . One or both of the first coupling portion  26  and the second coupling portion  28  are movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position. In some configurations, as discussed below, the sway bar assembly  20  can include one or more dogs that permit the sway bar assembly  20  to be selectively locked in the engaged position and the disengaged position. In addition, the sway bar assembly  20  may include engagement features (e.g., splines, flutes, gears, etc.) interposed between some or all of the first outer sway bar  22 , the second outer sway bar  24 , the inner sway bar  23 , the first coupling portion  26 , the second coupling portion  28 , and various other components to couple the components in specified manners. Alternatively, some or all of the segments of the sway bar assembly  20  may include bearing surfaces that permit components to longitudinally slide relative to one another. 
     The sway bar assembly  20  is configured to be secured to a vehicle, for example in the region of the front wheels of the vehicle. For example, the sway bar assembly  20  includes a first linking arm  100  and a second linking arm  102  that permits the sway bar assembly  20  to be secured to the vehicle. The first linking arm  100  can be joined to a first end of the inner sway bar  23  and/or the first outer sway bar  22  and the second linking arm  102  can be joined to a second end of the inner sway bar  23  and/or the second outer sway bar  24 . A first hubcap  104  and a second hubcap  106  can join the first linking arm  100  and the second linking arm  102  with the ends of the inner sway bar  23 , for example but without limitation. The first hubcap  104  can be coupled to the first linking arm  100  and the second hubcap  106  can be coupled to the second linking arm  102 . Preferably, the first hubcap  104  and the first linking arm  100  can be coupled to the first outer sway bar  22  and the inner sway bar  23  while the second hubcap  106  and the second linking arm  102  can be coupled to the second outer sway bar  24  and the inner sway bar  23 . Moreover, the sway bar assembly  20  may be connected to the vehicle in any suitable manner, such as by mounting plates and brackets described herein. In the arrangement illustrated in  FIG. 1 , the sway bar assembly  20  spans between the driver and passenger sides of the vehicle. 
     With reference now to  FIGS. 3 and 4 , the first outer sway bar  22  can include a central lumen  30 . The lumen  30  can accommodate the inner sway bar  23 . The first outer sway bar  22  includes a first end  32  and a second end  34 . The first end  32  can include an engagement feature  36 . In the illustrated embodiment, the engagement feature  36  of the first end  32  is a plurality of teeth. The plurality of teeth can be disposed along an outer surface of the first end  32 . The first end  32  engages the first linking arm  100 . The first linking arm  100  can include an engagement feature  108  (see  FIG. 19 ) to complement the engagement feature  36  of the first end  32  of the first outer sway bar  22 . In the illustrated embodiment, the engagement feature  108  of the first linking arm  100  is a plurality of teeth. The plurality of teeth can be disposed along an inner lumen of the first linking arm  100 . The coupling between the first outer sway bar  22  and the first linking arm  100 , therefore, can be via a splined connection. Such a configuration is desirable given the forces being transferred through the connection. 
     The second end  34  of the first outer sway bar  22  can include an engagement feature  38 . In the illustrated embodiment, the engagement feature  38  of the second end  34  is a plurality of teeth. The engagement feature  38  of the second end  34  can be different or the same as the engagement feature  36  of the first end  32  of the first outer sway bar  22 . The second end  34  of the first outer sway bar  22  engages the first coupling portion  26 . The first coupling portion  26  can include an engagement feature  40  to complement the engagement feature  38  of the second end  34 . In the illustrated embodiment, the engagement feature  40  of the first coupling portion  26  is a plurality of teeth. In some embodiments, the second end  34  can include one or more retaining members (e.g., O-rings) that facilitate the retention of second end  34  of the first outer sway bar  22  within the first coupling portion  26 . 
     The engagement features facilitate the coupling of components. In some embodiments, the engagement features described herein can include gears, teeth, flutes, splines, grooves, channels, keys or any other feature known in the art to couple components. In some embodiments, the engagement features prevent rotation of one component relative to another component. In some embodiments, the engagement features support movement of the components while maintaining the engagement of components. For example, the engagement features extend longitudinally, permitting longitudinally sliding of the components relative to each other. In some embodiments, the engagement features are constructed of a material for low sliding resistance and durability. 
     Moveable Sleeve 
       FIGS. 5-8  are perspective and exploded views of the first coupling portion  26 . The first coupling portion  26  can be configured for selective decoupling with the second coupling portion  28 . In other words, the first coupling portion  26  can include at least one component that is configured to selectively couple with the second coupling portion  28 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 5 , the illustrated first coupling portion  26  comprises a hub  42  and a movable sleeve  44 . The hub  42  can include the engagement feature  40  that complements the second end  34  of the first outer sway bar  22 . In the illustrated embodiment, the engagement feature  40  of the hub  42  can include a plurality of teeth that are arranged and configured to engage the teeth of the second end  34  of the first outer sway bar  22 . The plurality of teeth can be disposed along an inner lumen  45  of the hub  42 . Thus, a splined coupling can be defined between the hub  42  and the first outer sway bar  22 . 
     The hub  42  can include a second engagement feature  46  to engage a portion of the movable sleeve  44 . In the illustrated embodiment, the hub  42  can include a plurality of radially outwardly projecting ridges. The plurality of ridges can be disposed along an outer surface of the hub  42 . In some configurations, the ridges slope gently between peaks and valleys. The plurality of ridges can form a flower-petal shape, as shown. 
     The movable sleeve  44  can include a second engagement feature  48  to complement the second engagement feature  46  (i.e., the ridges) of the hub  42 . In the illustrated embodiment, the movable sleeve  44  can include a plurality of recesses to engage the ridges of the hub  42 . The plurality of recesses can be disposed along an inner lumen  49  of the movable sleeve  44 . In the illustrated configuration, the recesses receive only a portion of the full height of the ridges. While the illustrated configuration is generally symmetrical, it is possible to have asymmetric or a patterned configuration as well in which the height or radial width of the each of the ridges are not consistent one to the next. In the illustrated configuration, the interfacing portions of the second engagement features  46 ,  48  are generally smooth without sharp points. Other configurations are possible. 
     The hub  42  is configured to be received within the movable sleeve  44  with the second engagement features  46 ,  48  engaged with each other. The first coupling portion  26  can be considered a shuttle mechanism with the movable sleeve  44  shuttling on the hub  42  while the second engagement features  46 ,  48  of the first coupling portion  26  maintain a desired axial orientation of the movable sleeve  44  relative to the hub  42 . The movable sleeve  44  can shift axially between a first position and a second position. In some embodiments, the movable sleeve  44  is the only axially shiftable component  44  of the sway bar assembly  20 . The second engagement features  46 ,  48  reduce or eliminate the likelihood of rotation of the movable sleeve  44  with respect to the hub  42  and, therefore, the first outer sway bar  22 . Reducing or eliminating the likelihood of rotation of the movable sleeve  44  enables the first coupling portion  26  to properly engage with the second coupling portion  28 , as described below. 
     Referring back to  FIG. 2 , the movable sleeve  44  and the second coupling portion  28  can define a clutch. In some configurations, the movable sleeve  44  and the second coupling portion  28  can define a dog clutch. Referring to  FIG. 6 , the movable sleeve  44  includes a plurality of teeth  50  and engagement surfaces (i.e., the recesses) disposed between the plurality of teeth  50 . The teeth  50  are shaped to interlock with the teeth  72  of the second coupling portion  28  and abut the engagement surfaces (i.e., the recesses) of the second coupling portion  28 , as shown in  FIGS. 15 and 16 . As shown in  FIG. 6 , the teeth  50  are located on a forward face of the movable sleeve  44 . The teeth  50  extend longitudinally (i.e., axially) along the axis of the sway bar assembly  20 . The illustrated embodiment shows four teeth  50  on the movable sleeve  44 , but fewer or greater numbers of teeth are contemplated (e.g., three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten). The illustrated embodiment shows equally spaced teeth  50  on the movable sleeve  44 , but different configurations are contemplated. Preferably, the teeth  50 ,  72  are offset from one another (e.g., rotated clockwise with respect to each other) to permit interlocking. If the teeth  50 ,  72  are slightly misaligned, then the teeth  50 ,  72  will mash together until alignment is reached due to the biasing force of a spring  56 . In some embodiments, the teeth  50 ,  72  will rarely interlock out of phase (e.g., rotated so the teeth  50  are misaligned-indexed one slot from a desired position) based on the inherent limits of vehicular roll and based on the number of degrees of rotation between the second coupling portion  28  and the first coupling portion  26  (i.e., movable sleeve  44 ). 
     Referring to  FIGS. 2-5 , the first outer sway bar  22  is held in rotational position relative to the first linking arm  100  by the engagement feature  36  of the first end  32  coupled with the engagement feature  108  of the first linking arm  100 . The hub  42  is held in rotational position relative to the first outer sway bar  22  by the engagement feature  40  coupled with the engagement feature  38  of the second end  34  of the first outer sway bar  22 . The movable sleeve  44  is held in rotational position relative to the hub  42  by the second engagement feature  48 , which is rotationally coupled with the second engagement feature  46  of the hub  42 . Thus, the movable sleeve  44  generally is fixed against rotation (as opposed to rotation caused by torsion of the first outer sway bar  22 ) relative to the first linking arm  100 . 
     Fluid Chamber 
     As shown in  FIGS. 6 and 13 , the outer surface of the movable sleeve  44  can include a plurality of circumferential grooves. In some embodiments, the movable sleeve  44  can include a first groove  52  and a second groove  74 . A first sealing member  114  (see  FIG. 13 ) is configured to be retained in the groove  52  and a second sealing member  116  (see  FIG. 13 ) is configured to be retained in the groove  74 . The sealing members  114 ,  116  can be O-rings, for example but without limitation. 
     In the illustrated configuration, the outer surface of the movable sleeve  44  can have at least two diameters. The outer surface of the movable sleeve  44  can have a larger diameter  43  toward the hubcap  104 . The outer surface of the movable component can have a smaller diameter toward the teeth  50 . The first groove  52  can be located on the smaller diameter section of the movable sleeve  44 , closer to the teeth  50 . The second groove  74  can be located on the larger diameter section  43  of the movable sleeve  44 , closer to the hubcap  104 . The sealing members  114 ,  116  create a seal between the movable sleeve  44  and the housing, as describe herein. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 6 and 13 , as described above, the inner surface of the movable sleeve  44  can be defined by the lumen  45 . The illustrated lumen  45  can be stepped. In other words, the illustrated lumen  45  can include a first portion that is smaller in diameter and a second portion that is larger in diameter. The smaller diameter portion can be positioned within the portion of the moveable sleeve that includes the second engagement feature  48 . The larger diameter portion can be positioned within the portion of the movable sleeve  44  that underlies the second groove  74 . 
     The stepped lumen  45  provides space for a spring  56  to be disposed within the movable sleeve  44 . The lumen  45  in the illustrated sleeve  44  includes a stepped surface  51  that extends in a generally radial direction. The stepped surface  51  defines a bearing surface for the spring  56 . The spring  56  can abut the stepped surface  51  in the lumen  45  to bias the movable sleeve  44  toward the second coupling portion  28 . 
     The sway bar assembly  20  can include an additional spacer  47 , shown in  FIGS. 2 and 13 . The spacer  47  can define an additional surface against which the spring  56  can bear. Thus, the spring  56  can be compressed between the spacer  47  and the stepped surface  51  of the movable sleeve  44 . In some configurations, the spacer  47  can define a mechanical stop for the movable sleeve  44 . Thus, in some configurations, the spacer  47  can help limit the axial travel of the sleeve  44  along the first outer sway bar  22  and, thereby, also limit compression of the spring  56 . In some configurations, the spacer  47  can bear against a surface of the first outer sway bar  22 . 
       FIGS. 8-10  are perspective and exploded views of the second outer sway bar  24  and the second coupling portion  28 . The second outer sway bar  24  can include a central lumen  58  through which the inner sway bar  23  can extend. Like the first outer sway bar  22 , the inner sway bar  23  can extend fully through the second outer sway bar  24  as well. 
     The second outer sway bar  24  includes a first end  60  and a second end  62 . The first end  60  can include an engagement feature  64 . In the illustrated embodiment, the engagement feature  64  of the first end  60  is a plurality of teeth. The plurality of teeth can be disposed along an outer surface of the first end  60 . The first end  60  engages the second linking arm  102  (see  FIG. 2 ). The second linking arm  102  can include an engagement feature (not shown) to complement the engagement feature  64  of the first end  60 . In the illustrated embodiment, the engagement feature of the second linking arm  102  can be a plurality of teeth. The plurality of teeth can be disposed along an inner lumen of the second linking arm  102 , similar to the first linking arm  100  shown in  FIG. 19 . 
     The second end  62  also can include an engagement feature  66 . The engagement feature  66  of the second end  62  can be different or the same as the engagement feature  64  of the first end  60 . In the illustrated embodiment, the engagement feature  66  of the second end  62  is a plurality of teeth. The plurality of teeth can be disposed along an outer surface of the second end  62 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 9 , the second end  62  engages the second coupling portion  28 . The second coupling portion  28  can include an engagement feature  68  to complement the engagement feature  66  of the second end  62  of the second outer sway bar  24 . In the illustrated embodiment, the engagement feature  68  of the second coupling portion  28  is a plurality of teeth. The plurality of teeth can be disposed along an inner lumen of the second coupling portion  28 . In some embodiments, the second end  62  can include a retaining member (e.g., O-rings). 
     As mentioned above, the movable sleeve  44  and the second coupling portion  28  can define a clutch. Referring to  FIG. 10 , the second coupling portion  28  includes a plurality of teeth  72  and an engagement surface between the teeth  72 . The teeth  72  are shaped to interlock with the teeth  50  of the movable sleeve  44  and abut the engagement surface of the movable sleeve  44 . As shown in  FIG. 10 , the teeth  72  are located on a forward face of the second coupling portion  28 . The teeth  72  extend longitudinally along the axis of the sway bar assembly  20 . The illustrated embodiment shows four teeth  72  on the second coupling portion  28 , but fewer or greater dogs are contemplated (e.g., three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten). The illustrated embodiment shows equally spaced teeth  72  on the second coupling, but different configurations are contemplated as discussed above. Preferably, the teeth  50 ,  72  are offset from one another (e.g., rotated clockwise with respect to each other) to permit interlocking. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 2 and 8 , the second outer sway bar  24  is held in rotational position relative to the second linking arm  102  by the engagement feature  64  of the first end  60  coupled with the engagement feature of the second linking arm  102 . The second coupling portion  28  is held in rotational position relative to the second outer sway bar  24  by the engagement feature  68  coupled with the engagement feature  66  on the second end  62  of the second outer sway bar  24 . Accordingly, second coupling portion  28  generally is fixed against rotation (as opposed to rotation caused by torsion of the first outer sway bar  22 ) relative to the second linking arm  102 . 
       FIGS. 11-14  are perspective and cross-sectional views of the housing. The illustrated housing includes three segments: a first segment  76 , a central segment  78 , and a second segment  80 . The first segment  76 , the central segment  78 , and the second segment  80  include a central lumen there through. The first segment  76  includes a lumen  82  configured to receive the first outer sway bar  22  and the inner sway bar  23 . In some embodiments, the first segment  76  includes a recess to abut the spacer  47 . The central segment  78  includes a lumen  84  configured to accept the first coupling portion  26 , the second coupling portion  28 , the first outer sway bar  22 , the second outer sway bar  24 , and the inner sway bar  23 . The second segment  80  includes a lumen  86  configured to accept the second outer sway bar  24  and the inner sway bar  23 . In some embodiments, the second segment  80  includes a recess to abut the second coupling portion  28 . The housing can include an inlet  112  or port configured to accept a fluid. In some embodiments, the inlet  112  is located on the second segment  80 . 
     The first segment  76 , the central segment  78 , and the second segment  80  can be coupled in any suitable manner. In the illustrated arrangement, the first segment  76 , the central segment  78 , and the second segment  80  are separate components coupled together by one or more suitable fasteners, such as rivets or screw, for example. The first segment  76  and the second segment  80  include an elongated body portion that is coupled to the wall of the central segment  78 . Preferably, the elongated body portion of the first segment  76 , the central segment  78 , and the elongated body portion of the second segment  80  have the same diameter. That is, in some arrangements, the elongated body portion of the first segment  76 , the central segment  78 , and the elongated body portion of the second segment  80  is of substantially the same height. Such an arrangement increases the overall strength and rigidity of the housing. In some embodiments, the central segment  78  is unitary with, or formed from the material of, the first segment  76  and/or the second segment  80 . Each of the first segment  76  and the second segment  80  can define a ramped surface. The ramped surface is angled to reduce the overall size and shape of the housing. Other shapes and configurations for the housing are contemplated. 
     The first segment  76  includes a groove  88 . The first outer sway bar  22  includes a groove  90 , see  FIG. 4 . A retaining member  92 , for example an O-ring, is retained within the grooves  88 ,  90 . The second segment  80  includes a groove  94 . The second outer sway bar  24  includes a groove  96 , see  FIG. 8 . A retaining member  98 , for example an O-ring, is retained within the grooves  94 ,  96 . The retaining members  92 ,  98  permit flexibility of the first outer sway bar  22  with respect to the second outer sway bar  24 . The retaining members  92 ,  98  can be wiper seals to reduce the likelihood of particles entering the housing. The housing protects the first coupling portion  26  and the second coupling portion  28  from foreign particles, reducing the likelihood of excess wear on the first coupling portion  26  and the second coupling portion  28 . The housing does not necessarily rigidly couple the first outer sway bar  22  and the second outer sway bar  24 . Rather, the housing is maintained at a set distance from the first outer sway bar  22  and the second outer sway bar  24  by the flexible retaining members  92 ,  98 . 
       FIG. 13  is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the central segment  78  taken along the line  11 - 11  of  FIG. 11  with the movable sleeve  44 , the hub  42 , and the spacer  47  disposed within. The central segment  78  includes the lumen  84 . The lumen  84  includes a smaller diameter portion  83  and a larger diameter portion  85 . As mentioned herein, the movable sleeve  44  can include the first groove  52  and the second groove  74 . The first sealing member  114  can be retained in the groove  52  and the second sealing member  116  can be retained in the groove  74 . The first sealing member  114  can abut the smaller diameter portion  83  of the central segment  78 . The second sealing member  116  can abut the larger diameter portion  85  of the central segment  78 . The sealing members  114 ,  116  can slide relative to the lumen  84 . The sealing members  114 ,  116  can create a fluid seal between the movable sleeve  44  and the central segment  78 . 
     In some embodiments, a variable volume chamber  79  is created between the movable sleeve  44  and the central segment  78 . The chamber  79  can accept a fluid. The fluid can be liquid or gas. As the chamber  79  is filled with fluid, the fluid exerts pressure on the movable sleeve  44 . For example, in the illustrated configuration, a surface defined by the step between the smaller diameter portion and the larger diameter portion of the sleeve  44  can receive the force of the fluid in the chamber  79 , which causes movement of the movable sleeve  44 . 
     The movable sleeve  44  moves to enlarge the chamber  79  by traveling axially along the first outer sway bar  22  toward the spacer  47 . The movable sleeve  44  slides longitudinally within the central segment  78  in response to a fluid entering the chamber  79 .  FIG. 13  shows the movable component abutting the spacer  47 , preventing further longitudinal movement. The movable sleeve  44  slides along the hub  42 . The movable sleeve  44  is resists rotation with respect to the hub  42  due the engagement features  46 ,  48 . The movable sleeve  44  compresses the spring  56  as it moves in response to a fluid entering the chamber  79 . The force exerted by the fluid overcomes the biasing force of the spring  56 , as described herein. 
       FIGS. 15 and 16  are perspective and side views of the first coupling portion  26  and the second coupling portion  28  engaged. When the two portions  26 ,  28  are engaged, the plurality of teeth  50  of the movable sleeve  44  of the first coupling portion  26  engage the plurality of teeth  72  of the second coupling portion  28 . In some embodiments, a face of the first coupling portion  26  abuts the plurality of teeth  72  on the second coupling portion  28  and/or a face of the second coupling portion  28  abuts the plurality of teeth  50  on the movable sleeve  44 . The movable sleeve  44  is biased toward the second coupling portion  28  by the spring  56 . The movable sleeve  44  slides along the hub  42  due to the force of the spring  56  until the teeth  50 ,  72  interlock. The movable component is biased in the direction of the arrow shown in  FIG. 15 . 
     In the engaged configuration, the first outer sway bar  22  is engaged with the second outer sway bar  24 . The first outer sway bar  22  (not shown) is coupled to the hub  42  of the first coupling portion  26 . The hub  42  is coupled to the movable sleeve  44  via the second engagement features  46 ,  48 . The spring  56  can be disposed within the movable sleeve  44  and biases the movable sleeve  44  toward the second coupling portion  28 . The movable sleeve  44  slides longitudinally along the second engagement features  46  under the influence of the spring  56 , toward the second coupling portion  28 . The plurality of teeth  50  of the movable sleeve  44  engage with the plurality of teeth  72  on the second coupling portion  28 . The second coupling portion  28  is coupled to the second sway bar  24  (not shown). 
     Referring again to  FIG. 15 , in the engaged configuration, the first coupling portion  26  and the second coupling portion  28  engage to form a rigid body. The first outer sway bar  22 , the second outer sway bar  24 , the first coupling portion  26 , and the second coupling portion  28  form a rigid body. The rigid body acts as a unitary bar to stabilize the vehicle. The rigid body is capable of transmitting torque as if the outer sway bar were unitarily formed. The first outer sway bar  22  and the second outer sway bar  24  have a larger diameter than the inner sway bar  23 . Due to the design including the diameter of the first outer sway bar  22  and the second outer sway bar  24 , the vehicle has different characteristics related to roll and handling when the first coupling portion  26  is engaged with the second coupling portion  28 . In some embodiments, the default position is the engaged configuration wherein the first coupling portion  26  and the second coupling portion  28  engage. 
       FIGS. 17 and 18  are perspective and side views of the first coupling portion  26  and the second coupling portion  28  disengaged. As mentioned herein, the chamber  79  can be created between the movable sleeve  44  and the central segment  78 . As the chamber  79  is filled with fluid, the movable sleeve  44  will slide along the hub  42 . The movable sleeve  44  moves longitudinally away from the second coupling portion  28 . 
     In the disengaged configuration, the first outer sway bar  22  is disengaged from the second outer sway bar  24 . As mentioned herein, the first outer sway bar  22  is coupled to the hub  42  of the first coupling portion  26 . The hub  42  is coupled to the movable sleeve  44  via the second engagement features  46 ,  48 . To achieve the disengaged configuration, the spring  56  is compressed by the fluid, moving the movable sleeve  44  away from the second coupling portion  28 . The movable sleeve  44  slides longitudinally along the second engagement features  46  away from the second coupling portion  28 . The plurality of teeth  50  of the movable sleeve  44  disengage with the plurality of teeth  72  on the second coupling portion  28 . The second coupling portion  28  is coupled to the second outer sway bar  24 . 
     In the disengaged configuration, the first coupling portion  26  and the second coupling portion  28  are not engaged and do not form a rigid body. The first outer sway bar  22  is uncoupled from the second outer sway bar  24 . In the disengaged configuration, the inner sway bar  23  extends between the passenger side and the driver side, from the first hubcap  104  to the second hubcap  106 . The inner sway bar  23  controls roll of the body of the vehicle. The inner sway bar  23  has a smaller diameter than the first outer sway bar  22  and the second outer sway bar  24 . Due to the design of the inner sway bar  23 , including the diameter of the inner sway bar  23 , the vehicle has different characteristics related to roll and handling. The inner sway bar  23  is more compliant, leading to a less stiff feel for the driver. 
     The fluid will maintain the disengaged configuration until the pressure is released from the chamber  79 . When the pressure is released from the chamber  79  between movable sleeve  44  and the central segment  78  of the housing, the spring  56  biases the movable sleeve  44  toward the second coupling portion  28 . The sway bar assembly  20  returns to the default position, which is the engaged configuration in the illustrated embodiment. If the chamber  79  leaks fluid, then the sway bar assembly  20  also returns to the default position. If the inlet  112  or other features of the fluid exchange fail, then the sway bar assembly  20  remains in, or returns to, the default position. 
       FIG. 19  is a perspective view of the first hubcap  104  and the first linking arm  100  of the sway bar assembly  20 . As mentioned herein, the first end  32  of the first outer sway bar  22  can include an engagement feature  36 . The first linking arm  100  can include an engagement feature  108  to complement the engagement feature  36  of the first end  32 . In some embodiments, the first end  32  can include retaining member (e.g., O-rings) that facilitate the retention of the first outer sway bar  22  within the first linking arm  100 . In some embodiments, the first linking arm  100  can include a clamp  118  near the engagement feature  108 . The clamp  118  can be compressed to engage the engagement features  36 ,  108 . The clamp  118  can facilitate the assembly of the sway bar assembly  20 . The linking arm  102  (not shown) can include engagement features  110  (not shown) and similar features to the linking arm  100  as shown in  FIG. 19 . In some embodiments, the first end  60  of the second outer sway bar  24  can include retaining member (e.g., O-rings) that facilitate the retention of the second outer sway bar  24  within the second linking arm  102 . 
     The first hubcap  104  can be rigidly coupled to the first linking arm  100 . The first hubcap  104  can include seat  120 . The seat  120  can engage the first end  122  of the inner sway bar  23 . The first end  122  of the inner sway bar  23  can have non-uniform shape. The non-uniform shape can reduce or eliminate the likelihood of rotation of the inner sway bar  23  with respect to the first hubcap  104 . The second end (not shown) of the inner sway bar  23  and the second hubcap  106  can have similar features, as shown in  FIG. 19 . The illustrated first hubcap  104  includes fasteners, such as screws. The illustrated fasteners are generally cylindrical in shape. However, other suitable shapes may also be used. In some embodiments, the fasteners may compress the clamp  118  of the first linking arm  100 . Although four fasteners are shown, other numbers of fasteners are also possible. The fasteners are configured to engage mounting holes in the first hubcap  104  and mounting holes in the first linking arm  100 . 
     The components of the sway bar assembly  20  may be constructed of any suitable material and by any suitable manufacturing process. However, in some embodiments, the components of the sway bar assembly  20  are constructed from suitable metal materials (e.g., steel materials). The components can be shaped by any suitable process, including bending or roll forming techniques, for example but without limitation. 
       FIGS. 20 and 21  are perspective views of a mounting bracket  126  and a mounting plate  128 . The mounting bracket  126  can be coupled to the housing  76 ,  78 ,  80 . In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting bracket  126  is coupled to the first segment  76  and the second segment  80 . The mounting bracket  126  can include holes to accept the fasteners that couple the first segment  76  and the second segment  80  to the central segment  78 . The mounting bracket  126  can span the central segment  78 , and in some embodiments, is about the same length as the central segment  78 . 
     The mounting plate  128  can be coupled to the mounting bracket  126 . In some embodiments, the mounting plate  128  can be configured to replace or can be a stock mounting plate  128  that can be coupled to a stock sway bar. In other embodiments, the mounting plate  128  is specially designed to support the sway bar assembly  20 . The mounting plate  128  can couple to the underside of the vehicle. The mounting plate  128  can be designed based on the make and the model of the vehicle. The mounting plate  128  can be designed to align with the original mount points of the vehicle. The mounting plate  128  and other components of the sway bar assembly  20  can be connected to the vehicle by using suitable fasteners. The mounting bracket  126  and the mounting plate  128  can reduce or eliminate the likelihood of the first outer sway bar  22  and the second outer sway bar  24  rotating significantly when the first outer sway bar  22  and the second outer sway bar  24  are disengaged. 
     In operation, the sway bar assembly  20  is coupled to the vehicle with the mounting plate  128  and the mounting bracket  126 . Once mounted, the linking arms  100 ,  102  can be connected to the vehicle. The linking arms  100 ,  102  can be moved relative to one another (if necessary) along the first outer sway bar  22  and the second outer sway bar  24  when being coupled together. A fluid source can be connected to the fluid inlet  112 . The fluid source can be a source of compressed air or a pump or the like. The fluid source can be actuated in any suitable manner to disengage the first coupling portion  26  from the second coupling portion  28 . In some configurations, the fluid source can be controlled remotely relative to the rest of the sway bar assembly  20 , such as from within the cab of the vehicle. In some configurations, a switch, pushbutton or the like can be mounted within the cab of the vehicle. Operation of the switch, pushbutton or the like can cause pressurization of the chamber within the housing of the sway bar assembly  20 . 
     Although this invention has been disclosed in the context of certain preferred embodiments and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses of the invention and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. In particular, while the present sway bars have been described in the context of particularly preferred embodiments, the skilled artisan will appreciate, in view of the present disclosure, that certain advantages, features and aspects of the assemblies may be realized in a variety of other applications, many of which have been noted above. Additionally, it is contemplated that various aspects and features of the invention described can be practiced separately, combined together, or substituted for one another, and that a variety of combination and sub combinations of the features and aspects can be made and still fall within the scope of the invention. Thus, it is intended that the scope of the present invention herein disclosed should not be limited by the particular disclosed embodiments described above, but should be determined only by a fair reading of the claims.