With Fluid Or Mechanical Means To Accumulate Energy (i) Derived From Motion Of Vehicle Or (ii) Obtained From Operation Of Vehicle Motor, And Give Up The Energy (1) When Needed For Vehicle Acceleration Or (2) To Power An Auxiliary System Of The Vehicle Patents (Class 180/165)
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Patent number: 9273961Abstract: In embodiments of the invention, a vehicle stabilization control unit may determine a control moment value for one or more gyroscopes coupled to a vehicle frame to exert for stabilization of the vehicle frame. A number of input axes for the flywheels of the one or more gyroscopes to precess may be increased in order to generate the determined control moment value. In some embodiments, the one or more gyroscopes are further coupled to a turntable, and increasing the number of input axes for the flywheels comprises rotating the turntable. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the one or more gyroscopes comprise at least two gyroscopes coupled inline to the vehicle frame (e.g., aligned lengthwise with respect to the front and rear wheel to spin and precess in opposite directions with respect to each other).Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2013Date of Patent: March 1, 2016Assignee: Lit Motors CorporationInventor: Daniel Kee Young Kim
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Patent number: 9260011Abstract: A regenerative shock absorber that include a housing and a piston that moves at least partially through the housing when the shock is compressed or extended from a rest position. When the piston moves, hydraulic fluid is pressurized and drives a hydraulic motor. The hydraulic motor, in turn, drives an electric generator that produced electric energy. The electric energy may be provided to a vehicle, among other things. The regenerative shock absorber may also provide ride performance that comparable to or exceeds that of conventional shock absorbers.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 2014Date of Patent: February 16, 2016Assignee: Levant Power CorporationInventors: Zackary Martin Anderson, Zachary J. Jackowski, Ryan Bavetta
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Patent number: 9260105Abstract: A system and method of managing power in a hybrid vehicle are provided. The system includes an engine, first and second electronic power components, a power storage device, and a controller. The power storage device is configured to supply a power output to the second electronic power component necessary for the second electronic power component to drive a second set of drive wheels, in an electronic all-wheel drive mode. In steep grade environments, the power storage device is depleted at a higher rate, and may require a power input in addition to the power input of a conventional charge to adequately supply the second electronic power component with adequate power. To provide this power, the controller executes a series of control steps to increase a power output of the first electronic power component, by increasing the speed of the engine, thereby providing continuous power to the power storage device.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 2013Date of Patent: February 16, 2016Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Joseph M. Tolkacz, Norman Schoenek, Min-Joong Kim
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Patent number: 9242572Abstract: Telematic method and apparatus adaptively uses fuel cell power source in vehicle with integrated power system, electrical system, telematic system, and body/powertrain system. Telematic communications systems including internet, digital video broadcast entertainment, digital audio broadcast, digital multimedia broadcast, global positioning system navigation, safety services, intelligent transportation systems, and/or universal mobile telecommunications system. Network-accessible software enables integrated modular function for automated control and provision of fuel cell resources for telematic appliance and/or other vehicle electro-mechanical devices.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 2010Date of Patent: January 26, 2016Inventor: Dennis S. Fernandez
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Patent number: 9228563Abstract: One embodiment of an apparatus for wheel slipstream energy recovery in wheeled vehicles comprising a plurality of wheel spokes (21) of a wheel attached to a rotatable motoring shaft (22) which in turn is connected to a motor (26) and a generating propeller (23) attached to a rotatable generating shaft (24) which in turn is connected to a generator (25). Operation of the motor (26) results in the motoring propeller (21) to rotate and generate an accelerating slipstream towards the generating propeller (23) which results in the generator (25) rotating to convert recovered rotational energy into other forms of useable energy. The motor (26) may be an electric motor or an internal combustion engine. The generator (25) output is available for charging batteries or powering electrical loads in either electric or conventional vehicles. Both motor (26) and generator (25) are motoring and generating simultaneously.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 2015Date of Patent: January 5, 2016Inventor: Kevin Thomazios
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Patent number: 9193251Abstract: The invention relates to a power train for a hybrid vehicle, comprising two hydraulic machines (20, 22) including variable displacement, both of which are connected to a hydraulic pressure accumulator (24) which stores energy, a first hydraulic machine (20) being permanently connected to an internai combustion traction engine (2), and a second hydraulic machine (22) being connected, also permanently, to drive wheels (8) of the vehicle, characterized in that the two hydraulic machines (20, 22) are also interconnected by a linking means (10) that can be engaged or disengaged.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 2010Date of Patent: November 24, 2015Assignee: TechnoboostInventor: Pierre Gauthier
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Patent number: 9186974Abstract: A drive train of a motor vehicle with an internal combustion engine, an electric motor and a coupling device. The coupling device includes a first coupling unit allocated to the internal combustion engine and a second coupling unit allocated to the electric motor. By way of the coupling device, the internal combustion engine and/or the electric motor can be connected for drive purposes with a common drive shaft to drive at least one wheel of the motor vehicle. The first coupling unit and the second coupling unit are separate components which can be coupled together automatically by a clutch depending on a difference between a rotation speed of the internal combustion engine and a rotation speed of the electric motor.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2011Date of Patent: November 17, 2015Assignee: MAGNA STEYR Fahrzeugtechnik AG & Co KGInventors: Konstantin Erjawetz, Wolfgang Kriegler, Gerald Teuschl
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Patent number: 9175659Abstract: A drive train (1) of a motor vehicle has an internal combustion engine (2) with a crankshaft (6). A transmission (3) is connected downstream for driving at least one axle (5) of the motor vehicle. A starter generator (9) is attached to the crankshaft (6) of the internal combustion engine (2) via a spur gear mechanism (10). The spur gear mechanism (10) has a first drive train (11) with a switchable clutch (12) and a second drive train (13) with a switchable clutch or a freewheel (14) that is active during the starter mode of the starter generator (9). In a drive train of this type, the components for transmitting the torque of the starter generator (9) require only little space and, during starting, the crankshaft (6) of the internal combustion engine is decoupled from tensile forces and weights which would be observed when a belt drive is used.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2013Date of Patent: November 3, 2015Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c.F. Porsche AktiengesellschaftInventors: Wolfgang Benz, Stephan Mueller
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Patent number: 9168821Abstract: The disclosure relates to a product for storing and using energy delivered through a vehicle's drive wheel. A rotatable element may rotate with the drive wheel. A first rotating mechanism may provide an input energy when rotated by the rotatable element. A storage device may receive and store the input energy. A second rotating mechanism may rotate in reaction to selective delivery of the input energy from the storage device to the second rotating mechanism, and may drive the rotatable element. The rotatable element may be adapted to rotate in a first rotational direction to rotate the first rotating mechanism, and may rotate in the same direction when rotated by the second rotating mechanism. A heat transfer device may surround at least part of the storage device. The exhaust system may be routed through the heat exchange device to heat the storage device and increase stored energy.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 2015Date of Patent: October 27, 2015Assignee: BorgWarner Inc.Inventors: Larry A. Pritchard, Thaddeus Kopp
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Patent number: 9169604Abstract: A self-propelled compaction roller comprises a drive system having a drive assembly, a hydrostatic/mechanical transmission arrangement with a hydraulic pump, which can be driven by a primary drive of the drive assembly, and with a hydraulic motor, further having a supporting drive arrangement having a charging/driving unit and an energy storage unit, wherein the charging/driving unit can be operated in a charging mode for storing energy in the energy storage unit and can be operated in a supporting mode by withdrawing energy from the energy storage unit in order to provide a supporting torque, wherein the charging/driving unit is coupled to a power take-off of the drive assembly.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2011Date of Patent: October 27, 2015Assignee: HAMM AGInventors: Ronny Pieske, Andreas Roehr, Thomas Henker, Dieter Stoecklein, Axel Roemer
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Patent number: 9141095Abstract: A flywheel assembly may include first and second flywheels having respective first and second flywheel parasitic load profiles. Operating speeds of the first and second flywheels may be selected based at least in part on the first and second flywheel parasitic loads. The operating speeds may be determined such that an aggregate of the first and second flywheel parasitic loads is minimized, thereby increasing the efficiency of the flywheel assembly.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2012Date of Patent: September 22, 2015Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventors: Bryan Thomas Siegel, Evan Earl Jacobson, Timothy Michael O'Donnell
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Patent number: 9108498Abstract: A hybrid drive system in a vehicle includes a prime mover, a starting device connected to the prime mover, and a transmission having a transmission input shaft connected to the starting device. A pump/motor is functionally interconnected between the starting device and the transmission. A first accumulator is in fluid communication with the motor/pump for storing a hydraulic fluid under pressure and a second accumulator is in fluid communication with the pump/motor for storing hydraulic fluid discharged from the first accumulator. Discharge of the first accumulator drives the pump/motor to provide a drive torque to the transmission input shaft and to provide a drive torque to the prime mover for starting the prime mover.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2011Date of Patent: August 18, 2015Assignee: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, LLCInventors: John C. Schultz, Daryl A. Wilton
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Patent number: 9097336Abstract: A device is described for controlling a hydraulic accumulator of a hydraulic system, for example a vehicle transmission, having a valve device which may connect and disconnect an accumulator-side port of the device to and from a system-side port, the valve device including at least one first check valve which is situated hydraulically between the accumulator-side port and the system-side port, and which is blocking in the direction of the system-side port, the valve device also including an electrically actuated control valve which is situated between a control port of the first check valve and the accumulator-side port in such a way that the control valve may hydraulically unblock the first check valve, using the pressure prevailing at the accumulator-side port.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2011Date of Patent: August 4, 2015Assignee: ROBERT BOSCH GMBHInventors: Ruediger Block, Nils Steinbach, Werner Hess, Ianislav Krastev, Helmut Schneider, Steffen Strauss, Uwe Kulow, Christof Ott
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Patent number: 9062593Abstract: An arrangement for converting thermal energy to mechanical energy in a vehicle (1). A working medium is vaporized by a heat source (3) in the vehicle (1) and is thereafter expanded through a turbine (13) generating mechanical energy. A control unit (31) receives information indicating the vehicle (1) is to be braked and connects the cooling system (21, 39) of the vehicle to the vehicle's power train (2, 5-9) to cool a refrigerant to a low temperature. The control unit (31) receives information that the vehicle (1) requires extra propulsive force and, uses the cooled refrigerant to subject the working medium in the line circuit (10) to a second step of cooling before it is led to the evaporator (12). The condensation temperature of the working medium may thus be lowered and more mechanical energy may be generated in the turbine (13).Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2012Date of Patent: June 23, 2015Assignee: SCANIA CV ABInventors: Zoltan Kardos, Ola Hall
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Patent number: 9050968Abstract: A hybrid engine assembly may include an engine having a crankshaft, a supplemental shaft mechanically coupled to the crankshaft, a flywheel energy storage assembly, and an auxiliary device. A flywheel clutch may selectively couple the flywheel assembly to the crankshaft. The assembly may be selectively operated in an engine restart mode by directly coupling the flywheel energy storage assembly to the crankshaft prior to starting the engine, and in an auxiliary power mode by directly coupling the flywheel energy storage assembly to the auxiliary device.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2012Date of Patent: June 9, 2015Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventors: Evan Earl Jacobson, Bryan Thomas Siegel, Timothy Michael O'Donnell
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Patent number: 9030033Abstract: An energy regeneration device of a suspension system for a vehicle includes: a suspension link that connects a wheel carrier to a vehicle body; a bush unit that outputs hinge motion of the suspension link through an output gear; a one-way power transmission mechanism that receives the hinge motion transmitted from the output gear through an input gear, and outputs only one-way rotational power; a generator that is disposed at a side of the vehicle body and generates electricity while being rotated by the transmitted one-way rotational power; a speed-up mechanism that speeds up one-way rotational power transmitted from the one-way power transmission mechanism, and transmits the one-way rotational power to a rotary shaft of the generator; a rectifier that rectifies the electricity generated by the generator; and a battery that accumulates electric energy.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2013Date of Patent: May 12, 2015Assignee: Hyundai Motor CompanyInventors: Sang Hoon Yoo, Sung Bae Jang, Sung-Jun Kim, Un Koo Lee, Byung Gu Kang
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Publication number: 20150122564Abstract: In a hydraulic circuit for a vehicle including an electric pump power steering system (EHPS), a hydraulic pressure supply system including a cylinder to store a second hydraulic pressure while a vehicle is traveling and supply the stored second hydraulic pressure to a clutch circuit as a third hydraulic pressure when being supplied with hydraulic pressure after storing the second hydraulic pressure. The hydraulic circuit also includes a connecting path to connect, at the start of the vehicle, the cylinder and the EHPS system to allow a first hydraulic pressure to be supplied to the cylinder by drive of a motor. It is therefore possible to reduce electric power consumed during idling stop mode and shorten a recovery time from the idling stop mode.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 25, 2013Publication date: May 7, 2015Inventor: Nobuyuki Iwao
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Publication number: 20150114739Abstract: The presently described apparatus and method describes the construction, use and operation of a hydraulic hybrid vehicle including the components and the manner by which the components are integrated into a standard electric powered vehicle. The vehicle may be powered by an electric motor, by a hydraulic motor, or by both acting together.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 31, 2013Publication date: April 30, 2015Inventor: Curtis Arnold Newman
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Patent number: 8978375Abstract: Hydraulic transmission apparatus including a pressurized fluid source and at least one hydraulic motor fed by said pressurized fluid source. The motor has two motor ducts for feed/discharge, and one casing duct. The motor can be operated in assisted mode, in which it generates torque or in unassisted mode in which it does not generate any torque and its pistons are maintained in the retracted position under the effect of the pressure in the casing duct. The apparatus further includes an accumulator suitable for feeding: the motor ducts during a stage of passing from the unassisted mode to the assisted mode in order to facilitate deployment of the pistons; and the casing duct during a stage of passing from the assisted mode to the unassisted mode in order to facilitate retraction of the pistons. This apparatus thus enables the motor to be positively clutched/declutched quickly.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2011Date of Patent: March 17, 2015Assignee: Poclain Hydraulics IndustrieInventors: Andre Prigent, Benjamin Basson, Jean Heren, Philippe Lucienne
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Publication number: 20150060172Abstract: A motor vehicle drive system utilizing a flywheel for storing recaptured kinetic energy from a moving vehicle is described. Alternators mounted to the drive train generate electrical power from the passively spinning wheels of a moving vehicle. This power may be used to rotate a flywheel. Energy from the continuously spinning flywheel is used or stored for later use to charge batteries which provide power to the drive wheels of the vehicle. The disclosed drive system can be mounted in an all-electric or gasoline-electric hybrid motor vehicle and provides additional power to an electric drive motor of the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 29, 2014Publication date: March 5, 2015Inventor: Carl Manganaro
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Patent number: 8972084Abstract: A vehicle having a hydraulic hybrid powertrain comprises a power take off unit, a hydraulic pump, a hydraulic accumulator, an accumulator isolation valve, an accumulator solenoid, and a vehicle hydraulic component. The hydraulic pump mechanically connects to the power take off unit and is driven by the power take off unit. The hydraulic accumulator is disposed in fluid communication with the hydraulic pump and receives and stores pressurized hydraulic fluid from the hydraulic pump. The accumulator isolation valve has a first position and second position. The accumulator isolation valve is disposed in fluid communication with the hydraulic accumulator. The accumulator solenoid connects to the accumulator isolation valve and positions the accumulator isolation valve to the first position and the second position. The vehicle hydraulic component is disposed in fluid communication with the accumulator isolation valve and the hydraulic accumulator.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2009Date of Patent: March 3, 2015Assignee: International Truck Intellectual Property Company, LLCInventor: Jay E Bissontz
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Patent number: 8967305Abstract: An apparatus for generating an electric current to drive a vehicle has at least one electric drive motor coupled to each rear wheel of the vehicle. The electric motors are used to drive each rear wheel. A motor controller is coupled to each electric motor. Kinetic energy converting generators power the electric drive motor. Optionally, a flywheel is coupled to an electrical generator which is electrically coupled to the motor controller. Also optionally, at least one kinetic energy converting generator may be coupled to at least one of the vehicle wheel in order to convert kinetic energy of the vehicle into electrical energy to power the drive motor, via the motor controller.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2010Date of Patent: March 3, 2015Inventor: Carl Manganaro
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Patent number: 8955636Abstract: A rock drilling rig and to a method for transmission thereof is provided. The rock drilling rig includes a carriage that is movable by drive equipment in a mine. The rock drilling rig includes a hydraulic drilling system for which pressure energy is generated by a hydraulic pump. The rock drilling rig is electrically driven and includes an electric motor that is connected to drive both the drive equipment and the hydraulic drilling system. The mechanical drive transmission included in the drive equipment and the hydraulic pump of the hydraulic drilling system may be connected and disconnected independently of one another by means of clutches.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2011Date of Patent: February 17, 2015Assignee: Sandvik Mining and Construction OyInventors: Jarno Kuittinen, Juha Piipponen
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Patent number: 8957618Abstract: In an electric vehicle, a throttle spring restores a throttle opening on the side of a minimum opening when the accelerator is not operated. A driving section drives a motor according to the throttle opening. The throttle spring pushes an accelerator grip to a creep speed reference opening so as to reduce the throttle opening. A creep speed control section supplies a motor driving instruction to the driving section so that the electric vehicle is advanced at minute vehicle speed. The electric vehicle can also be backed at predetermined minute vehicle speed when the throttle opening is smaller than the creep speed reference opening.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 2012Date of Patent: February 17, 2015Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yui Tadano, Koji Aoki
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Patent number: 8938343Abstract: A method of dissipating power on a propelled machine includes setting a target ground speed for the machine, and, if the throttle position is less than a first predetermined minimum and if the machine is on a negative grade in the direction of travel no greater than a second predetermined minimum, and the calculated machine resistance power is less than the calculated grade power, the method include engaging at least a portion of the energy-dissipating electrically or electrohydraulically controlled accessories to retard the machine to maintain the machine within a set range of a target speed.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2011Date of Patent: January 20, 2015Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventor: Jeffrey Jensen
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Publication number: 20150014074Abstract: A hybrid drive system in a drive train system includes the preliminary step of providing a cradle, a plurality of components of a hybrid drive system, and a drive train system. The cradle and the plurality of components are initially assembled together to provide an integrated cradle and hybrid drive module. Then, the integrated cradle and hybrid drive module are subsequently installed in the drive train system. The hybrid drive system may be actuated hydraulically, electrically, or otherwise as desired.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 27, 2014Publication date: January 15, 2015Applicant: Parker-Hannifin CorporationInventor: Clive R. Hindle
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Publication number: 20150008057Abstract: A method and apparatus for delivering power to a hybrid vehicle is disclosed. The apparatus includes an apparatus for delivering power to a hybrid vehicle, the hybrid vehicle including a powertrain having a power take-off coupling, the powertrain including an engine and a transmission. The apparatus includes an electric motor operable to generate a torque, the motor being coupled to transmit a starting torque through the power take-off of the powertrain for starting the engine.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 1, 2013Publication date: January 8, 2015Inventors: Jonathan Mong Ling Lo, Jacek Gromadzki, Nicolas Louis Bouchon, Martin Alexander Strange, Victor Woo
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Patent number: 8928260Abstract: A traction motor system calculates motor flux by generating a real time effective resistance of a resistance grid calculated from motor torque and measured voltage on a DC link. Calculating effective resistance avoids solely relying on DC link voltage, which can be influenced by conditions such as wheel slip and drop out of one or more resistance grids. The effective resistance calculation is based on nominal motor values using known power levels and conditions. From these nominal values and the effective resistance, various scaling factors based on actual motor power can be generated and used to adjust a nominal flux reference to more accurately reflect actual motor flux. The scaling factors include power and torque scaling factors and a resistance scaling factor that is active during conditions such as wheel slip.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 2012Date of Patent: January 6, 2015Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventors: Alexander Cameron Crosman, III, Joshua M. Williams
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Patent number: 8925666Abstract: A flywheel module has a closed housing with an opening, and an output which is formed by an output shaft that extends outward through the opening. A sealing ring is present between the output shaft and the boundary wall of the opening. A flywheel is accommodated in the housing, which flywheel is connected via a clutch to a first gear of a transmission whose other gear is connected to a first portion of a centrifugal disengaging clutch of which the other portion is connected to the output shaft. With this it be avoided that the flywheel starts to run at too high a speed, which guarantees the safety of the flywheel module.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2010Date of Patent: January 6, 2015Assignee: DTI Group, BVInventors: Roëll Marie VanDruten, Alexander Franciscus Anita Serrarens, Bas Gerard Vroemen
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Patent number: 8918239Abstract: Embodiments of the invention may transfer energy from a flywheel motor-generator to a capacitor bank in response to detecting an input to increase the speed of a vehicle, and transfer energy from a drive wheel motor-generator to a capacitor bank in response to detecting an input to decrease the speed of the vehicle. The flywheel motor-generator may function to transfer energy to and from a flywheel included in a gyroscope-stabilizer of the vehicle, while the capacitor bank, which includes a battery, may function to transfer energy to and from a drive wheel of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 2010Date of Patent: December 23, 2014Assignee: Lit Motors CorporationInventors: Daniel Kee Young Kim, Kevin Bretney
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Patent number: 8910739Abstract: A pressure control device for a vehicle comprises an electronic control unit and a valve device for controllably connecting a compression chamber of the vehicle's air compressor to the vehicle's compressed-air supply and storage system. The pressure control device is configured to (i) connect the compression chamber to the compressed-air supply and storage system in a compressed-air production mode to convey compressed air from the compression chamber into the compressed-air supply and storage system, (ii) connect the compression chamber to the compressed-air supply and storage system in a compressed-air expansion mode to convey compressed air from the compressed-air supply and storage system into the compression chamber, and (iii) switch from the compressed-air production mode to the compressed-air expansion mode and vice-versa by electrically actuating one or more electrically operable valves of the valve device.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2011Date of Patent: December 16, 2014Assignee: WABCO GmbHInventors: Stefan Eisfelder, Ingo Stumberg, Christian Wiehen, Christoph Wilken
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Publication number: 20140353060Abstract: In exemplary embodiments, a regenerative suspension system replaces or complements a standard shock absorber on a vehicle. A pump attaches via a hose to a central accumulator cylinder that is mounted on a vehicle. Pressurized fluid, air, or other material charges the accumulator. The Pressurized fluid, air, or other material is controllably released via a valve in order to perform work.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 18, 2014Publication date: December 4, 2014Applicant: PHYSICS LAB OF LAKE HAVASU, LLCInventor: James A. Stansbury, III
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Patent number: 8899362Abstract: A work machine includes a front section with a front frame, a first set of ground engaging members and a power source for propelling the work machine, a rear section with a rear frame, a second set of ground engaging members and a load-carrying container. The rear section includes an electric drive system adapted for driving at least one ground engaging member of the second set. The rear section is detachably connected to the front section. The power source of the front section is adapted to power the electric drive system in the rear section in an attached state of the front and rear sections. The electric drive system is adapted for driving the at least one ground engaging member of the second set for self-propelling of the rear section in a detached state.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2009Date of Patent: December 2, 2014Assignee: Volvo-Construction Equipment ABInventors: Roland Kvist, Marcus Miller, Kajsa Dymling, Jonas Thoursie, Per-Olof Bergqvist
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Patent number: 8886379Abstract: This device is an ultra-thin vehicle where no more than twenty five percent of its solar array extends beyond the vehicle when it is being driven and the solar array is undeployed. However, this same solar array will cover an area at least twice as large as the vehicle and approximately the same size as a parking space when the array is fully deployed. This solar array is also designed to make it possible to easily orient it towards the sun during the majority of time when it is parked. Hence, solar power can be the primary source of power for a typical driver due to the lowered power needs of this tapered ultra thin vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2013Date of Patent: November 11, 2014Inventor: Benjamin David Freeman
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Patent number: 8878047Abstract: A heat engine system for a vehicle, wherein the vehicle is operable on a road surface, includes a collector configured for collecting an air layer disposed adjacent the road surface. The heat engine system also includes a heat engine configured for converting thermal energy provided by a temperature difference between the air layer and an ambient air surrounding the vehicle to another form of energy. The air layer has a first temperature, and the ambient air has a second temperature that is lower than the first temperature. In addition, the heat engine system includes a guide configured for transferring the air layer from the collector to the heat engine. A vehicle includes a body defining an interior compartment and having an underside surface spaced opposite the road surface, and the heat engine system.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2012Date of Patent: November 4, 2014Assignees: GM Global Technology Operations LLC, Dynalloy, Inc.Inventors: Marten Wittorf, Alan L. Browne, Nancy L. Johnson, James Holbrook Brown
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Patent number: 8862337Abstract: The present disclosure provides embodiments directed towards a system for the control of hydraulic output by a hydraulic power source. In one embodiment, a system is provided. The system includes a hydraulic supply system having a drive, a hydraulic pump coupled to the drive, a first hydraulic output configured to supply a first flow of a hydraulic fluid from the hydraulic pump to a hydraulic lift, a second hydraulic output configured to supply a second flow of the hydraulic fluid from the hydraulic pump to a first hydraulic tool, and a controller configured to adjust a speed of the drive in response to a feedback indicative of a first load by the hydraulic lift, a second load by the first hydraulic tool, or a combination thereof.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2011Date of Patent: October 14, 2014Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventors: Mark Edwin Peters, Ross Renner
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Patent number: 8855880Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and system for displaying braking information such as energy dissipation braking information and regenerative braking information. The present invention can be an automobile including an energy dissipation braking system, a regenerative braking system, an energy dissipation braking sensor, a regenerative braking sensor, an energy conversions system, an energy storage unit, an energy storage sensor, a processor, an engine, and/or a display. The processor, energy dissipation braking sensor, and/or the regenerative braking system can acquire and analyze energy dissipating braking data and regenerative braking data in an automobile to determine appropriate braking information for display to a user on the display. Such braking information can include, for example, an energy efficiency rate, and/or an application percentage of the energy dissipation braking system and/or the regenerative braking system.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2009Date of Patent: October 7, 2014Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.Inventors: James D. Rowker, Avernethy Francisco
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Patent number: 8839897Abstract: A drive system for a hybrid hydraulic vehicle. The drive system includes an engine, a hydraulic pump driven by the engine, a converter coupled to the pump, a drive train coupled to the converter a first hydraulic pathway coupling the hydraulic pump to the converter, a second hydraulic pathway coupling the hydraulic pump to the converter, a reservoir positioned in the second hydraulic pathway, an accumulator positioned in the first hydraulic pathway, a pressure sensor configured to sense the pressure of hydraulic fluid in the accumulator, and a controller. The controller is configured to receive an indication of the pressure of the hydraulic fluid in the accumulator from the pressure sensor, and to adjust a low pressure level threshold of the pressure of hydraulic fluid in the accumulator based on the operation of the vehicle such that the pressure of the hydraulic fluid in the accumulator reaches a predetermined target pressure when the vehicle brakes.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2012Date of Patent: September 23, 2014Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventor: Charles Moore
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Patent number: 8839920Abstract: A regenerative shock absorber that include a housing and a piston that moves at least partially through the housing when the shock is compressed or extended from a rest position. When the piston moves, hydraulic fluid is pressurized and drives a hydraulic motor. The hydraulic motor, in turn, drives an electric generator that produced electric energy. The electric energy may be provided to a vehicle, among other things. The regenerative shock absorber may also provide ride performance that comparable to or exceeds that of conventional shock absorbers.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2009Date of Patent: September 23, 2014Assignee: Levant Power CorporationInventors: Zackary M. Anderson, Zachary M. Jackowski, Ryan Bavetta
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Patent number: 8831803Abstract: A hybrid vehicle is configured to be capable of traveling with fuel and electric power serving as energy sources. A charger receives electric power from an external power supply connected to a charging port to charge a power storage device. An ECU calculates a distance traveled per unit amount of electric power supplied from the external power supply by the charger and a distance traveled per unit amount of fuel consumed by an engine. A notification unit notifies a user of each distance traveled, as calculated by the ECU.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 2008Date of Patent: September 9, 2014Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Shigeo Yamamoto
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Patent number: 8818653Abstract: A system and method of dithering speed and/or torque for shifting a transmission of a vehicle having an engine, a reversible, variable displacement hydraulic motor/pump which can be driven by the engine, a hydraulic accumulator supplied by said motor/pump, and at least one reversible hydraulic driving motor for propelling the vehicle supplied with fluid by the hydraulic accumulator and/or by said motor/pump operating as a pump. A transmission unit connects the engine with the variable displacement hydraulic motor/pump during a first mode of operation (city mode) and connects the engine to a vehicle drive wheel during a second mode of operation. The system utilizes stored hydraulic energy to dither the output of the driving motor in order to achieve quick and smooth shifts between city and highway mode, or between various ranges within the city mode.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2012Date of Patent: August 26, 2014Assignee: Parker-Hannifin CorporationInventors: Yisheng Zhang, John Loeffler
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Patent number: 8807258Abstract: In exemplary embodiments, a regenerative suspension system replaces or complements a standard shock absorber on a vehicle. A pump attaches via a hose to a central accumulator cylinder that is mounted on a vehicle. Pressurized fluid, air, or other material charges the accumulator. The Pressurized fluid, air, or other material is controllably released via a valve in order to perform work.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 2012Date of Patent: August 19, 2014Assignee: Physics Lab of Lake Havasu, LLCInventor: James A. Stansbury, III
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Patent number: 8776929Abstract: A hybrid power system for a vehicle which may include an internal combustion engine and a supplemental energy system for converting the mechanical energy generated by the engine to electrical energy and storing it as opportunity provides; and using the stored electrical energy to augment engine output as necessary. The supplemental energy system may include a motor-generator engaged with a flywheel.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 2012Date of Patent: July 15, 2014Assignee: Deere & CompanyInventors: Sean P. West, Mark J. Cherney
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Patent number: 8776928Abstract: The present invention affords a regenerative electric drive refrigerated unit for a conveyance vessel, thereby providing temperature cooling in a compartment of the conveyance vessel. An electricity generator powers a compressor unit in the refrigeration unit. The electricity generator is powered by a drive mechanism obtaining its energy from the motion of the conveyance vessel such that when the invention is employed, a diesel engine that normally powers the compressor unit in the refrigeration unit is disabled and stops running, thereby saving energy and reducing air pollution otherwise generated by the burning of fossil fuels when the diesel engine is running.Type: GrantFiled: December 24, 2008Date of Patent: July 15, 2014Assignee: ENGEN TechnologiesInventors: A. Blair Stover, Jr., Richard Leonard Barrett
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Patent number: 8771853Abstract: A fuel cell assembly (1) for mounting in a vehicle comprises a fuel cell stack (2) comprising two stack units (2a, 2b) arranged in parallel. Each of the stack units (2a, 2b) comprises a number of fuel cells stacked in a fixed direction. The fuel cell stack (2) is housed in a case (3). The case (3) is supported in the vehicle via a rubber mount (36). The case (3) permits expansion and contraction of the fuel cell stack (2) in the fixed direction so that the expansion and contraction of the fuel cell stack (2) does not exert a force on the rubber mount (36).Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2003Date of Patent: July 8, 2014Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Soichiro Ogawa
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Patent number: 8757300Abstract: The present invention relates to a ram air generator for an automobile, and more specifically to a ram air generator which improves an efficiency of an automobile. In one embodiment, the automobile can have, for example, an engine, a radiator, an ac condenser unit, and/or a ram air generator which can be located in an ambient air flow both of an engine. The automobile can also include a battery and/or a DC-DC converter connected to the ram air generator. The ram air generator receives ambient air in the ambient air flow path and generates energy from the ambient air. The energy generated by the ram air generator can be used to charge a battery and/or supply power to electronic devices through a DC-DC converter. The ram air generator can include a shroud, a fan blade assembly, an energy generation unit, and/or a regulator.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2011Date of Patent: June 24, 2014Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.Inventor: Woodson Wayne Samuel
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Patent number: 8733476Abstract: A motor vehicle comprises a compressed gas engine, wind resistance engines, reversing devices, a drive train and wheels. The compressed gas engine has a primary power output shaft driven by compressed gas to output main power, and each of the wind resistance engines has an impeller shaft driven by front resistance fluid to output auxiliary power when the motor vehicle is in motion. The main power outputted by the primary power output shaft directly drives the drive train, the auxiliary power outputted by the impeller shaft drives the same after being reversed by the reversing devices, and the output of the drive train drives the wheels.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2011Date of Patent: May 27, 2014Inventor: Yang Cong
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Patent number: 8727051Abstract: A hybrid vehicle has a first drive apparatus for driving wheels on a first axle by an internal combustion engine and a second electrical drive apparatus with two electrical machines for driving wheels on a second axle. At least one electrical energy store can be discharged when the two electrical machines are operated as a motor and can be charged when the electrical machines are operated as a generator. The two electrical machines of the electrical drive apparatus are combined with a respectively associated gearbox in an electrical axle to drive the individually suspended wheels on the first axle via universally jointed shafts. Two electrical converters are associated respectively with the two electrical machines and are combined in one converter unit, such that a basic module has the mechanical link to a bodywork structure, the link to a cooling circuit and the electrical link to an electrical energy store.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 2011Date of Patent: May 20, 2014Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AktiengesellschaftInventors: Jochen Schmid, Stephan Hennings
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Publication number: 20140124281Abstract: A drive system for a hybrid hydraulic vehicle. The drive system includes an engine, a hydraulic pump driven by the engine, a converter coupled to the pump, a drive train coupled to the converter a first hydraulic pathway coupling the hydraulic pump to the converter, a second hydraulic pathway coupling the hydraulic pump to the converter, a reservoir positioned in the second hydraulic pathway, an accumulator positioned in the first hydraulic pathway, a pressure sensor configured to sense the pressure of hydraulic fluid in the accumulator, and a controller. The controller is configured to receive an indication of the pressure of the hydraulic fluid in the accumulator from the pressure sensor, and to adjust a low pressure level threshold of the pressure of hydraulic fluid in the accumulator based on the operation of the vehicle such that the pressure of the hydraulic fluid in the accumulator reaches a predetermined target pressure when the vehicle brakes.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 7, 2012Publication date: May 8, 2014Inventor: Charles Moore
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Patent number: 8718889Abstract: A kinetic energy system incorporates multiple flywheels, each flywheel situated and adapted to develop and store kinetic energy, and to subsequently impart that energy to move a work machine. Each flywheel is controlled by an ECM to operate in a selective sequence with respect to any of the other flywheels. Each flywheel has its own individual external gear and clutch unit adapted to be in communication with a commonly shared continuously variable transmission. The plurality of flywheels may be operated sequentially to develop, store, and dispense kinetic energy equivalently to that of a substantially larger unitary flywheel. In the disclosed embodiment and method of operation, the flywheel system may be employed with a traditional internal combustion engine to produce a hybrid motive source, with capability for effectively meeting transient load demands of an off-road work machine.Type: GrantFiled: February 29, 2012Date of Patent: May 6, 2014Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventor: Jeffrey Edward Jensen