Combined Devices Patents (Class 123/2)
  • Patent number: 8960132
    Abstract: An ECU executes a program including the steps of carrying out low-load control when an IG OFF operation is performed, when a vehicle is running, and when stop of an engine is not permitted, carrying out gate cut-off control, ending low-load control and gate cut-off control when a brake pedal has been operated, when a vehicle speed is lower than a threshold value, or when a prescribed time period has elapsed since the IG OFF operation, permitting stop of the engine, and carrying out fuel cut control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Hideaki Yaguchi, Takeshi Hoshiba, Akihiro Kimura, Masahiro Naito
  • Patent number: 8960708
    Abstract: Some embodiments relate to an example towable power generation system. The towable power generation system includes a guide that facilitates mounting the enclosure onto a base. In some embodiments, the guide is attached to the enclosure. When enclosure is mounted on the towable power generation system, the guide on the enclosure engages another portion of the towable power generation system as the enclosure is assembled onto (or removed from) the rest of towable power generation system. The guide facilitates alignment and mounting of the enclosure relative to the towable power generation system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: Kohler Co.
    Inventors: Joshua Ziebert, Dawn Vertz
  • Patent number: 8955400
    Abstract: A sampling device is disclosed. The sampling device includes a labyrinth structure and a sampling tube. The labyrinth structure includes a first baffle plate, a second baffle and a third baffle plate. The second baffle plate in combination with the first baffle plate defines an inlet channel and is configured to receive a portion of oil aerosol containing liquid oil particles. A curved bend is included downstream of the inlet channel and is configured to separate the liquid oil particles from the portion of oil aerosol. The third baffle plate is relatively inclined with respect to the first baffle plate. The third baffle plate in combination with the first baffle plate is configured to drain the separated liquid oil particles. The sampling tube provides the portion of oil aerosol separated of liquid oil particles to a detection device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventor: Mark T. Hartman
  • Publication number: 20150034025
    Abstract: A portable flexible fuel generator, having an engine, includes: a cylinder and a spark plug in the cylinder, a primary fuel tank fluidly connected to the cylinder, an air intake path fluidly connecting atmosphere to the cylinder, a start module including a starting fuel tank holder and a starting fuel line, where the starting fuel line is fluidly connected to the air intake path, a coolant path which provide a flow path for coolant to cool the cylinder, and a thermal controller along the coolant path. Furthermore, the engine has full cylinder cooling.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2012
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Inventors: Larry J. Markoski, Timothy C. Simmons, Mack L. Nance
  • Patent number: 8935995
    Abstract: A wheeled, manually movable, internal combustion engine powered electric generator is mounted in a rigid frame formed of tubular steel elements. A pair of aligned wheels is pivotally mounted to each opposite side of the frame, and one pair has a locking mechanism. The electricity generating components are mounted to the bottom of the frame. The battery and trickle charger are carried above the engine in a locked compartment. The engine's muffler is disposed beneath the upper outline of the engine to free space for accommodating the battery and the fuel tank, which is completely within the outline of the frame and holds more than 12 gallons of diesel fuel. The frame also supports and contains a locked compartment that houses the electric connector that is used to connect the electric output of the generator to the load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Inventor: Bobby L. Hawkins
  • Patent number: 8915218
    Abstract: A process and apparatus is provided for burning liquid ammonia in an energy device such as a diesel engine, boiler or gas turbine. In particular, the process and apparatus include mixing a renewable fuel with a low flame speed and high ignition temperature, e.g., ammonia, with a combustible liquid fossil or bio-fuel and supplying the mixture into a closed fuel loop where part is efficiently burned in an engine combustion chamber, and part is used to cool the engine and returned by the loop for mixture with fresh incoming fuel mixture. The invention provides for the mixing and emulsifying in such a way that vapor lock is avoided. In the loop, the mixture is emulsified into a disperse distribution of fuel droplets such that upon injection of a portion into the combustion chamber, the renewable fuel in an emulsified droplet evaporates, mixes with the air and forms a small combustion cell surrounding the liquid fuel droplet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Assignee: FAST Systems Corporation
    Inventor: Vito Agosta
  • Publication number: 20140345546
    Abstract: A Coal-to-Liquid Fuels production process by which carbon dioxide (CO2) exhaust by-products are significantly reduced, if not eliminated, through a system comprising the generation of a first hydrogen (H2) product and carbon from coal and generating carbon monoxide (CO) by reacting the Carbon (C) with CO2. A second hydrogen (H2) product is generated through catalyzation of water, methane reformation, electrolysis of water, or other reaction processes. Carbon monoxide (CO) is reacted with the first and second hydrogen (H2) products to form a first hydrocarbon group having Olefins. The first hydrocarbon group, as Olefins, are further reacted to form C1-40 alcohols, Kerosene, Gasoline, Diesel Fuel, and Jet Fuel, and combinations thereof. At least a portion of the finished fuel blends are optionally used to generate electricity for use in the fuels production process or for distribution to an external power grid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2014
    Publication date: November 27, 2014
    Inventor: Deborah Wenzel
  • Patent number: 8893666
    Abstract: A cogeneration power plant for producing steam and electricity. A boiler burner receives fuel from a fuel source and a boiler combustion air/exhaust mixture from a boiler combustion air fan. An internal combustion engine receives fuel and air for combustion. The internal combustion engine drives an electricity generator for the production of electricity. A boiler combustion control system automatically monitors the boiler load and the combustion air and engine exhaust mixture oxygen level and temperature. The boiler combustion control system will then appropriately automatically adjust the speed of the boiler combustion air fan to provide a near stoichiometric mixture of fuel and combustion air and engine exhaust mixture so as to provide for a high burner temperature causing the reduction of NOx emissions in the boiler exhaust while maintaining a very high boiler operating efficiency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Inventor: Robert P. Benz
  • Patent number: 8890340
    Abstract: Some embodiments relate to a generator that includes an alternator and an engine. The engine includes an output shaft that is coupled to a rotor of the alternator. The generator further includes a first fan that initially directs air in a first direction which is parallel to a longitudinal axis of the output shaft. A second fan that directs air in a second direction that is orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the output shaft. The generator further includes an enclosure such that the alternator, the engine, the first fan and the second fan are within the enclosure. In some embodiments, the generator may further include a third fan that directs air in the direction that is orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the output shaft and a fourth fan that directs air in a direction that is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the output shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: Kohler, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul E. Honkanen, Adam L. Clouse, Robert J. Danforth, III
  • Publication number: 20140331945
    Abstract: A hybrid drive having a clutch and a rotary electric machine disposed radially outwardly of the clutch so as to at least partially overlap the clutch in an axial direction as seen from a radially outer side, the rotary electric machine having a stator fixed to a case and a rotor coupled to the input member of the automatic transmission device. A clutch lubricating oil hole formed in a center shaft that extends at a center portion of the clutch and the rotary electric machine. A rotary electric machine lubricating oil hole formed in the center shaft. Separation means for separating lubricating oil such that lubricating oil from the clutch lubricating oil hole is led to the clutch and lubricating oil from the rotary electric machine lubricating oil hole is led to the rotary electric machine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2013
    Publication date: November 13, 2014
    Applicant: AISIN AW CO., LTD
    Inventors: Satoru Kasuya, Masashi Kito, Yuichi Seki, Hiroki Shintani
  • Publication number: 20140318481
    Abstract: [Object] Provided is a thermoelectric power generating device that is able to detect an operating state of a thermoelectric conversion module with a simple configuration, thereby improving detection accuracy of the operating state of the thermoelectric conversion module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2012
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Yojiro Iriyama
  • Publication number: 20140311426
    Abstract: A vehicle includes at least one sensor generating a signal to control an operation of an internal combustion engine; and a control unit configured to store a control parameter to control an operation of the internal combustion engine, and to correct the control parameter based on an output of the at least one sensor. The control unit stops correcting the control parameter while the vehicle is at a halt, and the power generator is generating electric power by driving of the internal combustion engine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2011
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Makoto Yamazaki
  • Publication number: 20140311427
    Abstract: A control device for a hybrid vehicle having a drive-train with a hybrid drive unit including an internal combustion engine and an electric machine. A clutch is connected between the internal combustion engine and the electric machine. An automatic or automated transmission is connected between the hybrid drive unit and a drive output. When the hybrid vehicle has been driving and comes to a standstill with its internal combustion engine stopped, the control device automatically determines, on the one hand, a starting mode for the subsequent re-starting of the internal combustion engine when the hybrid vehicle is at rest, and the control device, on the other hand, automatically changes at least the transmission and the clutch connected between the internal combustion engine and the electric machine of the hybrid drive unit to a condition appropriate for the starting mode determined by emitting appropriate control signals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2012
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Inventors: Werner Wolfgang, Thea Schlueter
  • Publication number: 20140311424
    Abstract: A method and device to optimize the cumulative beneficial effect of harvesting available forms of passive energy and storing the passive energy in the form of hydrogen and oxygen. The cumulative energy that is recovered is converted to electrical energy which powers an electrolyzer to produce hydrogen and oxygen for fuel in an internal combustion engine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2014
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Inventor: Donald E. Moriarty
  • Publication number: 20140311425
    Abstract: A vehicle drive includes a speed change mechanism connected to a rotary electric machine; an output member connected to the speed change mechanism and wheels; an engagement device changes a state of engagement between an input member connected to an engine and the speed change mechanism; a hydraulic pump driven by the engine or the rotary electric machine; a first pressure control device that controls pressure supplied from the pump and supplies the pressure to the speed change mechanism; a second, separate hydraulic pressure control device that controls the pressure supplied from the pump and supplies the pressure to the engagement device; and a case that houses the rotary electric machine, speed change mechanism, engagement device, and pump. At least the engagement device is housed in a space formed by the case, and the second hydraulic pressure control device is provided at a part of the case forming the space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2014
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Applicants: AISIN AW CO., LTD., TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Mikio IWASE, Daiki SUYAMA, Naoya JINNAI, Kensuke WADA, Yuji INOUE, Yukihiko IDESHIO
  • Publication number: 20140305388
    Abstract: A drive system has an internal combustion machine that drives a hydraulic system and/or that includes a controller actuating the internal combustion machine such that, with transient load moment, the internal combustion machine operates at a constant set speed. The drive system includes a flywheel accumulator that is connected with the output shaft of the internal combustion machine via a step-up gear unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2014
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Applicant: Liebherr Machines Bulle SA
    Inventors: BenoƮt GAY, Michael DEEKEN, Marcus QUASTHOFF, Bouzid SEBA, Damien DUJON
  • Publication number: 20140305389
    Abstract: A vehicle drive includes a speed change mechanism connected to a rotary electric machine; an output member connected to the speed change mechanism and wheels; an engagement device changes a state of engagement between an input member connected to an engine and the speed change mechanism; a hydraulic pump driven by the engine or the rotary electric machine; a first pressure control device that controls pressure supplied from the pump and supplies the pressure to the speed change mechanism; a second, separate hydraulic pressure control device that controls the pressure supplied from the pump and supplies the pressure to the engagement device; and a case that houses the rotary electric machine, speed change mechanism, engagement device, and pump. At least the engagement device is housed in a space formed by the case, and the second hydraulic pressure control device is provided at a part of the case forming the space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2014
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Applicants: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA, AISIN AW CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Mikio IWASE, Daiki SUYAMA, Naoya JINNAI, Kensuke WADA, Yuji INOUE, Yukihiko IDESHIO
  • Publication number: 20140305387
    Abstract: A hydraulic power system for a utility vehicle having an engine with a crankshaft. The system features first and second rotationally-driven power generating devices, one of which is a hydraulic pump and the other of which is an alternator and one of which is a hydraulic pump. The first device has a first rotational input for operative coupling to the crankshaft for driven rotation thereby. A secondary shaft has an input end portion arranged for rotational coupling to a rotationally driven member of the first device and an output end portion arranged for rotational coupling to a second rotational input of the second device for driving thereof under driven operation of the first rotationally-driven power generating device by the crankshaft. Higher power output of increased reliability is provided over prior art add-on hydraulic solutions using electric-over-hydraulic power packs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2013
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Inventor: Her Majesty the Queen in the Right of Canada as Represented by the Minister of National Defence
  • Publication number: 20140305390
    Abstract: An engine-generator comprises: a generator 13, an internal combustion engine 14 coupled to the generator 13 such that operation of the internal combustion engine 14 will generate electricity via the generator 13, and a control system incorporating a misfire detection system 5, the misfire detection system 5 being arranged to monitor engine rotation speed in order to detect a misfire event during operation of the engine 1; wherein in response to an indication of the misfire event the control system initiates a safety mode of the engine-generator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2012
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Inventors: Jesper Forster, Lars LĆ¼ders, SĆøren Stig Abildgaard, Steven Lose, Kim Tae Ho
  • Patent number: 8857382
    Abstract: In a hydraulic control apparatus for a continuously variable transmission that enables gear ratio variation by controlling supply of hydraulic oil to first and second hydraulic actuators, there are provided with first and second oil passages connecting the first and second actuators to a reservoir, a single electric hydraulic pump installed at a common portion thereof, first and second check valves installed in the first and second oil passages for blocking flow of hydraulic oil to the reservoir, first and second bypass passages formed in the first and second oil passages, a control valve installed therebetween, a fourth check valve installed in the first and second bypass passages for blocking flow of hydraulic oil to the hydraulic pump, and a controller for controlling these, thus readily enabling a configuration that reduces the number of electric hydraulic pumps to one and minimizes cost increase.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Toru Yagasaki
  • Publication number: 20140290592
    Abstract: An electrical architecture of a hybrid motor vehicle including a combustion engine driving an alternator that recharges a low-voltage on-board battery connected to a starter of and to a vehicle on-board network, an electric traction machine powered by a high-voltage traction battery, and a hybrid transmission including a coupling mechanism that can occupy at least a first position in which the combustion engine is uncoupled from the drive train connecting the electric machine to vehicle wheels, a second position in which the wheels are driven by the combustion engine with or without top-up from the electric machine, and a third position in which the combustion engine and the electric machine are coupled to combine their respective torques, bound for the wheels. The combustion engine and the alternator constitute an electricity generator configured to supply energy requirements of the traction electric machine in an electric mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2012
    Publication date: October 2, 2014
    Applicant: RENAULT S.A.S.
    Inventors: Antoine Vignon, Nicolas Fremau, Sid-Ali Randi
  • Publication number: 20140290593
    Abstract: The invention relates to a reactor (1) for gasifying biomass, in particular wood, comprising a feeder chute (7) and an ash bed arranged beneath the feeder chute (7). According to the invention, a device is provided by means of which biomass adhering to the feeder chute (7) can be detached, and/or a heat exchanger is provided by means of which a product gas generated from the biomass gives oil heat to the biomass subsequently conveyed in the feeder chute (7) and to oxidation air. The invention further relates to a fine filter (29) for cleaning a product gas generated from biomass. According to the invention, the filter medium contains biomass. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for gasifying biomass in a reactor (1), in particular a reactor (1) according to the invention, to form a product gas. According to the invention, biomass adhering to the feeder chute (7) is detached and/or heat is given off to biomass and to oxidation air by the product gas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2012
    Publication date: October 2, 2014
    Applicant: REP RENEWABLE ENERGY PRODUCTS GMBH
    Inventor: Franz Krammer
  • Publication number: 20140292234
    Abstract: A plasma hydrogen generation device includes a liquid fuel storage bottle, an air filtering element, a large capacitor battery and a fuel cell power set. In operation, the carbon hydrogen compound is decomposed into hydrogen and carbon without carbon dioxide generation when a liquid carbon hydrogen compound is decomposed in the plasma hydrocarbon decomposition element. The produced hydrogen is directly provided to fuel cells on the car to generate electric power. As such, the resulting electric power may be directly used for the electric motor driving system on the car. Further, it is also suitable for a home electric power supply device with home or industry electricity specification, or used in combination with an electric vehicle (EV) car driving system to become a hydrogen hybrid EV car, or used in combination with a natural gas internal combustion engine to become a hydrogen hybrid car driving system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2014
    Publication date: October 2, 2014
    Applicant: National Cheng Kung University
    Inventors: Yasushi Nishida, Chio-Zong Cheng, Chung-Ming Liu
  • Publication number: 20140290591
    Abstract: The exemplary illustrations generally include a method for controlling and regulating an internal combustion engine-generator system 1000 with a plurality of internal combustion engine-generator units 400 generating electric power which can be connected to a distribution grid and load consumers 200 consuming electric power, with a unit 400 comprising an internal combustion engine 401, 402, 404-408 with variable engine speeds and a generator 421-428, characterized in the steps: determining a given operating state Z* of the internal combustion engine 401, 402, 404-408 of at least one internal combustion engine-generator unit 400; deducting a range of operating states ZB* describing an electric load override Ladm depending on the given operating state Z* for the internal combustion engine of at least one internal combustion engine-generator unit 400, with the determination of the given operating state Z* and the deduction of the range of operating range ZB* occurring based on the calculation model 504 for the in
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2012
    Publication date: October 2, 2014
    Applicant: MTU Frierichshafen GmbH
    Inventors: Gerhard Filip, Claus-Oliver Schmalzing, Hans-Juergen Thomas, Tobias Kohl
  • Publication number: 20140261249
    Abstract: A primary reciprocating engine is combined with a secondary turbine engine. The turbine engine utilizes the exhaust of the reciprocating engine as fuel, resulting in an increase in efficiency and reduction in emissions over a conventional reciprocating engine alone. The secondary turbine engine powers secondary functions of the reciprocating engine, such as relieving the back pressure at the exhaust ports, driving the turbocharger that pressurizes the air intake, and driving an electrical generator. Oxyhydrogen (HHO) used to ignite the reciprocating engine exhaust and complete combustion of the reciprocating engine fuel is obtained by disassociating distilled water into hydrogen and oxygen using the electricity from the electrical generator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: Luke J. Turgeon, Eric E. Turgeon
  • Publication number: 20140261250
    Abstract: A power supply system mounted in a vehicle. A rotary machine is connected to an output shaft of an internal-combustion engine of the vehicle, and has a power generation function, an engine start-up function, and an engine output assist function. A first secondary battery and a second secondary battery are each electrically connected in parallel with the rotary machine. A connection switch is provided along a connecting line electrically connecting the first and second secondary batteries, where the connection switch is configured to electrically connect and disconnect the second secondary battery and a parallel connection of the first secondary battery and the rotary machine. A switch controller is configured to disconnect the second secondary battery and the parallel connection by controlling the connection switch to a current cut-off state during the engine start-up and during engine output assist.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: Naoki KATAYAMA, Shunichi MAEDA, Shigenori SAITO
  • Patent number: 8820269
    Abstract: Method of operating a compression ignition engine on ether containing fuel obtained by on board conversion of an alcohol containing primary fuel, and a system for use in the method. The alcohol containing primary fuel is heated within a dehydration reactor by indirect heat exchange with ether containing fuel prepared in the dehydration reactor by dehydrating the alcohol containing primary fuel. The ether containing fuel is cooled prior to withdrawal from the reactor as a result of the indirect heat exchange with the alcohol containing primary fuel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Haldor Topsoe A/S
    Inventors: Christophe Duwig, PƤr L. Gabrielsson, Svend-Erik Mikkelsen, Ton V. W. Janssens
  • Publication number: 20140209045
    Abstract: The purpose is to provide an engine generator 1 which can reduce noise and performs cooling efficiently. In the engine generator 1 having an engine 2, a generator 3, a cover 4 and a muffler box 13, external openings 412 and 414 formed in the cover 4 for sucking outside air into the cover 4 and intake ducts 7 for introducing the air sucked via the external opening 412 and 414 into the inside of the cover 4. An opening 71 is formed in the upper side of each of the intake duct 7, and the intake duct 7 is arranged along the side surface of the muffler box 13 and below the upper surface of the muffler box 13 for a predetermined distance. A sponge 17 is provided between the upper side of the intake duct 7 and the side surface of the muffler box 13 so as to cover a part of the opening 71. An air passage 18 is formed above the intake duct 7 by the side surface of the muffler box 13 and the sponge 17.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2011
    Publication date: July 31, 2014
    Applicants: HIMOINSA CHINA CO., LTD, YANMAR CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Shinji Hibi
  • Publication number: 20140190426
    Abstract: In a vehicle provided with a power propulsion system of the mild-hybrid type, a BAS unit ā€”including an electric machine connected through a belt transmission to the shaft of an internal combustion engineā€”is exploited as the only propulsion engine of the vehicle in given operating conditions. The internal combustion engine is provided with a system for variable actuation of the intake valves which is controlled to reduce the pumping losses of the internal combustion engine in the phase in which such engine is in cut-off condition and it is driven by the aforementioned BAS unit. It is also provided for that the system for variable actuation of the intake valves be controlled to temporarily increase the pumping losses of the internal combustion engine in a phase in which it is required to accelerate the switching off of the engine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2012
    Publication date: July 10, 2014
    Applicant: C.R.F. SOCIETA CONSORTILE PER AZIONI
    Inventors: Cosimo Carvignese, Roberto Finizio, Fabio Borean, Marco Cuniberti
  • Patent number: 8757107
    Abstract: A portable, on-demand hydrogen generation system producing hydrogen and injecting the hydrogen into the air intake of internal combustion engines. Hydrogen and oxygen is produced with an electrolyzer from nonelectrolyte water in a supply tank. The hydrogen and oxygen is passed back thru the supply tank for distribution and water preservation. The gases are kept separate by a divider in the tank. The device is optionally powered by the vehicle battery, a stand alone battery, waste heat of the internal combustion engine or solar energy. The system utilizes a vacuum switch or other engine sensor that permits power to the device and therefore hydrogen production only when the engine is in operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: HNO Greenfuels, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald W Owens
  • Publication number: 20140165931
    Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for controlling motive flow through an ejector using a pneumatically controlled valve. A valve coupled upstream of an intake ejector may be adjusted based on boost pressure to control motive flow into the ejector from upstream of a compressor. This allows motive flow through the ejector to be controlled based on vacuum needs at low component cost without loss of boost pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2013
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Applicant: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Ross Dykstra Pursifull
  • Patent number: 8739743
    Abstract: A method for enriching air with hydrogen for subsequent use by internal combustion engines is discussed. The method begins with supplying a modified form of water. Subsequently, the method continues with electrolyzing the water to produce hydrogen gas. Next, the method involves mixing the gas with air to produce a hydrogen-air mixture, and injecting the mixture into the air intake of a combustion engine. Also discussed is a system for enriching internal combustion engine air intake with hydrogen gas. The system uses modified water, an electrolysis unit for producing hydrogen gas from the modified water. The system mixes the gas with ambient air to create a mixture, and a venturi-based injector introduces the mixture into the air intake system of the engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Go Green Hybrid Fuel Systems
    Inventors: Chris Mingilino, Leo Bailleaux, Charlie Corry, Thomas Fornarelli, Timothy T Tutt, Anatoly Kalmanovsky
  • Publication number: 20140144396
    Abstract: A power tool has an internal combustion engine with a piston supported in the cylinder and delimiting a combustion chamber. A crankshaft is rotatably supported in the crankcase and driven by the piston. Combustion air is supplied to the combustion chamber via an intake passage that has a piston-controlled inlet opening and an intake section formed within the cylinder. The bottom of the intake section, when the cylinder axis is vertical and the crankcase is beneath the combustion chamber, connects lowermost points of passage cross-sections arranged in the intake section perpendicular to the flow direction. The bottom descends toward the crankcase when the longitudinal cylinder axis is vertical. A ramp arranged in the intake passage next to the inlet opening deflects a portion of flow flowing within the intake passage. The ramp, when the longitudinal cylinder axis is vertical, ascends in flow direction toward the crankcase.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2013
    Publication date: May 29, 2014
    Applicant: Andreas Stihl AG & Co. KG
    Inventors: GĆ¼nter Wolf, Niels Kunert, Martin Rieber, Alexander Kraus
  • Patent number: 8733299
    Abstract: A cooling device for an automotive vehicle of electric type, the cooling device being able to be powered up or powered down and including a cooling circuit capable of cooling an engine assembly including an electronic driver system using a coolant, the cooling circuit being controlled by a control system capable of keeping the device powered up when the vehicle is at end of mission and the temperature of the coolant is above a threshold temperature. The electric vehicle includes a battery charger assembly, and the cooling circuit is capable of cooling the charger assembly and the engine assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Renault S.A.S.
    Inventors: Samuel Cregut, Claire Oberti, Marco Marsilia
  • Patent number: 8714126
    Abstract: A motor oil heating system for a vehicle comprising one or more solar panels comprised of one or more photovoltaic cells; one or more heaters thermally coupled to the motor oil, wherein the solar panels are electrically coupled to the heaters and power the heaters based on a voltage generated by the solar panel such that the heaters warm the engine oil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Inventor: Richard D. Sposato
  • Publication number: 20140083375
    Abstract: A brush cutter as a power tool includes an engine, an electric motor, a driving shaft capable of driving a tool and a battery which provides current to the electric motor. The brush cutter is adapted to drive the tool in a hybrid driving mode in which both the engine and the electric motor drive the tool. Further, the engine is arranged between the electric motor and the driving shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2013
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Applicant: MAKITA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hideo KAWASHIMA, Shinji HIRABAYASHI, Noriaki HAYASHI
  • Patent number: 8680728
    Abstract: A thermal shield for a system for generating electric power may include a sheet of material configured to be operably associated with an engine of the system for generating electric power such that heat from the engine is deflected back toward the engine. The sheet of material may define a generally rectangular shape defining a length dimension and a width dimension, and the length dimension may be configured to generally correspond to a length defined by the engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Michael R. Errera, Kenton D. Gills
  • Patent number: 8677948
    Abstract: The present invention includes an engine mechanically coupled to a generator to provide mechanical power thereto and a housing assembly defining an interior space to at least partially enclose the engine and the generator. The housing has a first airflow path structured to provide cooling into the radiator and a second airflow path structured to provide cooling to at least one of the engine and the generator. A temperature sensor can be disposed within the housing and a variable speed fan can be in flow communication with at least one of the first airflow path and the second airflow path. Further, a controller may be in communication with the variable speed fan and the temperature sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Cummins Power Generation IP, Inc.
    Inventor: Leo T. Steffi
  • Patent number: 8674529
    Abstract: A cogeneration apparatus includes a housing for accommodating an engine, a fuel line, an electrical generator, and a power converter part. The housing is partitioned into a power-generation compartment and an electrical-equipment compartment. Empty space in the housing is used to form a concave part, which is indented from the electrical-equipment compartment toward the power-generation compartment. The fuel line is disposed in the concave part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Yoshiharu Takita
  • Publication number: 20140074384
    Abstract: An internal combustion engine and a method for maximizing fuel efficiency of an internal combustion engine. The internal combustion engine includes an engine block assembly having an electromagnet coupled thereto and an engine component movable relative to the engine block assembly. The engine component includes a permanent magnet coupled thereto. A control system is provided to selectively provide an electrical current to the electromagnet to produce a desired magnetic field, wherein the magnetic field of the electromagnet cooperates with a magnetic field of the permanent magnet to affect a motion of the engine component in respect of the engine block assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2013
    Publication date: March 13, 2014
    Inventor: Douglas A. Pelmear
  • Publication number: 20140069354
    Abstract: A hybrid system for generating electrical power.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2013
    Publication date: March 13, 2014
    Applicant: Philip Morris USA Inc.
    Inventor: Roberto O. Pellizzari
  • Publication number: 20140060460
    Abstract: The technique disclosed increases the energy conversion efficiency by means of substantial reduction of friction between the cylinder walls and the associated piston rings. The result is achieved by eliminating the unwanted carbonaceous deposits on cylinder walls and associated piston rings by means of vapor nitric acid (HNO3) delivered to the combustion chambers of an engine. Nitric acid is produced by means of chemical reaction between oxygen (O2) and water vapor (H2O) in air and nitric dioxide (NO2) generated throughout an electrical discharge in the air intake path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Inventor: PAVEL ZABELIN
  • Publication number: 20140060461
    Abstract: A power generation system utilizing a fuel cell is described. The system includes a fuel cell having an anode configured to generate a tail gas. The anode includes an inlet and an outlet. The system further includes a fuel path configured to divert a first portion of the anode tail gas to the inlet of the anode; and a second portion of the anode tail gas to a reciprocating engine. The associated reciprocating engine is at least partially powered by the second portion of the anode tail-gas. Another embodiment of the invention is directed to a power generation system that includes the anode and an external fuel reforming system, along with a gas splitting mechanism to divide the reformed fuel into two streams. One stream is directed back to the fuel cell anode, while another stream is used to completely or partially power an external or internal combustion engine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventor: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
  • Publication number: 20140033995
    Abstract: Portable energy generation systems are disclosed. More particularly, a high-output mobile electrical generator system comprising a radial engine power source providing a highly compact physical format.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: Clear Energy Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph P. Kealy, Anthony J. Carmen, Douglas R. Heise, James H. Griffin
  • Publication number: 20140026828
    Abstract: A portable engine generator includes a power generation unit operating an engine to generate electricity and a negative pressure fuel cock using a negative pressure in a crank chamber as an operating negative pressure to supply fuel to the engine. The negative pressure fuel cock is located on a side opposite to a negative pressure take-out port of the crank chamber with respect to a position of the power generation unit when the portable gas-engine generator is turned over, and so as to be located at a position higher than the negative pressure take-out port when the portable gas-engine generator is in an upright posture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2013
    Publication date: January 30, 2014
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hiroaki Kojima, Masashi Kai, Takuo Kase
  • Publication number: 20140026838
    Abstract: A process and apparatus is provided for burning liquid ammonia in an energy device such as a diesel engine, boiler or gas turbine. In particular, the process and apparatus include mixing a renewable fuel with a low flame speed and high ignition temperature, e.g., ammonia, with a combustible liquid fossil or bio-fuel and supplying the mixture into a closed fuel loop where part is efficiently burned in an engine combustion chamber, and part is used to cool the engine and returned by the loop for mixture with fresh incoming fuel mixture. The invention provides for the mixing and emulsifying in such a way that vapour lock is avoided. In the loop, the mixture is emulsified into a disperse distribution of fuel droplets such that upon injection of a portion into the combustion chamber, the renewable fuel in an emulsified droplet evaporates, mixes with the air and forms a small combustion cell surrounding the liquid fuel droplet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2013
    Publication date: January 30, 2014
    Applicant: FAST Systems Corporation
    Inventor: Vito Agosta
  • Patent number: 8622043
    Abstract: Some embodiments relate to an example electrical power generation system that includes a fluid containment system (FIG. 2 shows the example electrical power generation system of FIG. 1 where the fluid containment system is filled with fluid F). The electrical power generation system includes an internal combustion engine and an alternator that is driven by the internal combustion engine to generate electrical power. The electrical power generation system further includes an enclosure such that the internal combustion engine and alternator are positioned within the enclosure. The fluid containment system is positioned below the internal combustion engine and the alternator to collect fluids F. The fluid containment system includes a drain. The electrical power generation system further includes a control that selectively operates the drain to permit fluids F to exit the fluid containment system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: Kohler Co.
    Inventor: John R. Thiel
  • Patent number: 8622032
    Abstract: Improvements in a gas powered engine. Said improvements include use of a piston with a fixed piston arm that extends through a seal in the lower portion of the cylinder. The piston arm operates on an elliptical crank that drives the output shaft. Valves that move air and exhaust into and out of the pistons are lifted by a cam located on the crank. A unique oil injector passes oil to the piston and the cylinder wall. An energy recovery unit recovers energy from the cooling system and from the exhaust system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Inventor: Mustafa Rez
  • Patent number: 8616159
    Abstract: A wheeled, manually movable, internal combustion engine powered electric generator mounts in a rigid frame formed of tubular steel elements. A pair of aligned wheels is pivotally mounted to each opposite side of the frame. One pair of aligned wheels is provided with a locking mechanism that enables both the front and rear wheels to be locked against rotation. The electricity generating components mount to the bottom of the frame. The internal combustion engine mounts toward the rear end of the frame. A propane fuel tank is carried above the engine by the upper rear portion of the frame. A battery and a trickle charger are carried above the engine and secured in a compartment with a locked hinged cover. The frame also supports and contains a locked compartment that houses the electric connector that is used to connect the electric output of the generator to the load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Inventor: Bobby L. Hawkins
  • Publication number: 20130340802
    Abstract: A thermoelectric system includes at least one thermoelectric generator which includes at least one cold-side heat exchanger, at least one hot-side heat exchanger, and a plurality of thermoelectric elements in thermal communication with the at least one cold-side heat exchanger and in thermal communication with the at least one hot-side heat exchanger. The system further includes a combustible fluid, wherein the at least one cold-side heat exchanger is configured to transfer heat to the combustible fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2013
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Inventors: Vladimir Jovovic, Douglas T. Crane, Dmitri Kossakovski