Patents by Inventor David Merrion

David Merrion has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Publication number: 20060086546
    Abstract: A hybrid power train and method for operating same in which the operation of the engine is modified to effect an improvement in the fuel economy and/or emissions performance of the hybrid power train. In one embodiment, the battery of the power train is employed to provide auxiliary heat to an engine aftertreatment system to thereby improve the effectiveness of the aftertreatment system. In another embodiment, various components of the engine, such as a water pump, are wholly or partly operated by electric motors that receive power from the battery of the power train. In another embodiment, engine braking can be employed in situations where regenerative braking does not provide sufficient braking torque. In a further embodiment, the engine valves may be selectively opened to reduce pumping losses associated with the back-driving of the engine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2005
    Publication date: April 27, 2006
    Inventors: Haoran Hu, David Merrion
  • Patent number: 7028793
    Abstract: A hybrid powertrain and method for operating same in which the operation of the engine is modified to effect an improvement in the fuel economy and/or emissions performance of the hybrid powertrain. In one embodiment, the battery of the powertrain is employed to provide auxiliary heat to an engine aftertreatment system to thereby improve the effectiveness of the aftertreatment system. In another embodiment, various components of the engine, such as a water pump, are wholly or partly operated by electric motors that receive power from the battery of the powertrain. In another embodiment, engine braking can be employed in situations where regenerative braking does not provide sufficient braking torque. In a further embodiment, the engine valves may be selectively opened to reduce pumping losses associated with the back-driving of the engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: Green Vision Technology, LLC
    Inventors: Haoran Hu, David Merrion
  • Publication number: 20030160455
    Abstract: The hybrid powertrain includes an internal combustion engine, a regenerative brake/motor and an electric energy storage device such as a battery. Preferably the internal combustion engine is a diesel engine with programmable injection events and programmable intake and exhaust valve events. The regenerative brake/motor is capable of operating as both an electric generator and as an electric motor. The battery receives electric energy from the regenerative brake. In additional to supplying electricity to the motor, the battery drives the engine accessories. The battery also supplies electric energy to keep the exhaust aftertreatment systems (Lean NOx, NOx absorber, PM Filter) at optimal temperature to improve conversion efficiency. A powertrain controller schedules the energy distribution and driving forces associated with both the diesel engine and the motor to maximize the vehicle fuel economy and to minimize the vehicle exhaust emissions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2003
    Publication date: August 28, 2003
    Inventors: Haoran Hu, David Merrion