Two-stage variable-rate mechanical leaf spring suspension, and a method for adjusting the point at which the second spring rate is generated

This invention relates to a two-stage variable-rate mechanical leaf spring suspension, in which an actuator enables a sliding collar, which is placed around the leaf and the counter leaf of the leaf spring, to move lengthwise. As it moves away from the actuator, the sliding collar causes the counter leaf to move towards the leaf, thus generating the second spring rate in advance.