Source Comprises Or Includes Energy Derived From Force Of Nature (e.g., Sun, Wind) Patents (Class 180/2.2)
  • Publication number: 20130186697
    Abstract: The Safety, Power and Shade Device is a system usable with wheelchairs providing an upright and horizontal frame attachable by brackets to a wheelchair seat back. The frame allows for the installation of safety and illumination lights, a solar panel for supplemental recharging of an electric wheelchair battery and a means of shelter or shade. The frame assembly is constructed to allow the horizontal frame to fold over and behind the wheelchair for a vertical relationship with the frame upright.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2013
    Publication date: July 25, 2013
    Inventor: David Kurt Schneider
  • Patent number: 8476863
    Abstract: In a vehicle charging system, conservation of energy may be achieved by an energy-routing device that selectively routes electrical energy generated from moving air to an energy-storage device, to an energy-dissipation device, or to both. The determination of where to route the electrical energy may be based on sensor measurements of voltage, current, and temperature. A processor may use measurements of sensors within the system to determine whether the energy-storage device may safely or efficiently store additional electrical energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Inventor: Mitchell Andrew Paasch
  • Patent number: 8469123
    Abstract: An energy-producing system comprising an axle configured to be driven by an electric vehicle's wheels when in motion. The axle supports a series of wind-catching cups contained within an aerodynamic housing configured to direct air to the cups while also increasing the air speed. During vehicle motion, the cups are acted upon by rushing air causing the rotation of the axle such that the rotation may be transferred into energy via a generator/alternator linked thereto. A series of similarly polarized magnets integrated on said cups and proximate thereto further maintain the axle in motion during short vehicle stops. The system extends the life of the batteries between charges as well the distance the vehicle can travel between charges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Inventor: Cecil G. Knickerbocker
  • Patent number: 8448728
    Abstract: The Safety, Power and Shade Device is a system usable with wheelchairs providing an upright and horizontal frame attachable by brackets to a wheelchair seat back. The frame allows for the installation of safety and illumination lights, a solar panel for supplemental recharging of an electric wheelchair battery and a means of shelter or shade. The frame assembly is constructed to allow the horizontal frame to fold over and behind the wheelchair for a vertical relationship with the frame upright.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Inventor: David Kurt Schneider
  • Patent number: 8434574
    Abstract: A supplemental wind propulsion power system for a vehicle having at least one battery. The system includes an air intake duct disposed on the vehicle for intercepting turbulent airflow created by the forward motion of the vehicle, an air conduit, an air turbine disposed at the outlet of the air conduit and a generator for supplying electricity to the batteries. The system further includes an air filtration system, an air heating system and grid output terminal to provide a port for supplying supplemental electricity to the electrical grid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: York Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward James York, Spencer Jay York, Edward Julius York
  • Patent number: 8430192
    Abstract: A robotic omniwheel vehicle includes autonomous drive logic with laser Radar, GPS for vehicle self guidance, obstacle avoidance and range finding location and also to control the omniwheel assemblies having multi-directional steering, extension and lift actuation via a universal joint and a transmission rod that also supports the chassis while traveling at speeds ranging from low to high velocity on and off road, and on rails. The navigational system control methods use manual driving, a cell phone controller comprising satellite telecommunication with voice command, and a touch screen control panel, an omnichair which can rise up and swivel on point, and may also include electromagnetic coupling devices to connect omnivehicles together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Inventor: Carla R. Gillett
  • Patent number: 8424287
    Abstract: An internal combustion engine vehicle or hybrid-electric vehicle is provided with a vehicle-mounted solar cell array capable of generating electrical power. The solar cell array and other elements, including a metal substrate catalytic convertor form a system for reducing exhaust gas emissions from the vehicle in which the power from the array is applied to minimize exhaust emissions. A primary application of the solar cell array-generated power is to preheat the catalytic convertor to a preferred operating temperature prior to engine start. But the power from the solar cells, directed by a controller, may also be applied to charge the battery or to power electric power receiving devices, for example, to control cabin temperatures. The preferred allocation of the solar power available depends on a number of factors including the state of charge of the batteries, and the time of anticipated next use of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Venkata Prasad Atluri, Yongsheng He, Madhusudan Raghavan
  • Publication number: 20130092457
    Abstract: A photovoltaic apparatus for a vehicle including a plurality of solar modules electrically isolated from each other and adapted to receive solar radiation and convert the radiation to electrical energy. The apparatus includes at least one DC/DC converter electrically coupled to the electrically isolated modules adapted to receive the electrical energy from the solar modules and boost the voltage to be delivered to at least one component of the vehicle. The solar modules include a plurality of solar cells adapted to receive solar radiation and convert the radiation to electrical energy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2010
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Applicant: FISKER AUTOMOTIVE, INC.
    Inventor: Reinhard Wecker
  • Publication number: 20130081884
    Abstract: An automatic conveying device includes a conveyer bracket, a wheel assembly, a transmission mechanism, and a loading assembly. The wheel assembly is rotatably assembled to a bottom portion of the conveyer bracket for supporting the conveyer bracket. The transmission mechanism is assembled within the conveyer bracket and connected with the wheel assembly, thereby driving the wheel assembly to rotate. The loading assembly is mounted upon the conveyer bracket and movably assembled with the transmission mechanism, for accepting objects as a load and driving the transmission mechanism to work. The loading assembly moves downward relative to the conveyer bracket under the weight of the objects placed on the loading assembly, and is capable of moving upward back to its original position, when the objects are removed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2012
    Publication date: April 4, 2013
    Applicants: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD.
    Inventors: BING LI, SHANG-XUAN SONG, YONG XIE
  • Publication number: 20130043082
    Abstract: A vehicle air turbine has a vehicle body and an air turbine assembly includes an air turbine blade mounted on a turbine frame. The turbine frame is mounted on a rotating axle, and the rotating axle is mounted to the vehicle body. An air inlet is mounted in front of the air turbine with an air outlet behind the air turbine. A front wing is connected to a wing frame to form an airfoil for directing air through the turbine. The front wing is movable relative to the wing frame, and the airfoil is inverted to draw air into the air inlet. A turbine inlet deflector directs air flow towards a turbine inlet portion. A generator can be mounted to the rotating axle for generating electricity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2011
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Inventor: Don Tran
  • Patent number: 8371401
    Abstract: An electric power hybrid propulsion generation system for a motor vehicle which comprises a wind turbine rotatively mounted on a roof of the motor vehicle. Two independent electric generators are in the motor vehicle. Two drive belt assemblies extend between the wind turbine and the electric generators. An auxiliary battery array in the motor vehicle is electrically connected to the electric generators. An electric motor drive in the motor vehicle is powered by the auxiliary battery array to operate rear wheels of the motor vehicle independently from a fuel engine and transmission of the motor vehicle, which operates front wheels of the motor vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Inventor: Vito J. Illustrato
  • Patent number: 8359864
    Abstract: A wind-gas engine assembly and a motor vehicle with the same are provided. The wind-gas engine assembly comprises a high pressure gas engine (20) and a wind resistance engine (22) independent of each other. The high pressure gas engine generates primary power through injection of the high pressure gas. The wind resistance engine comprises an impeller chamber (221) and an impeller (222). The impeller chamber is provided with an air inlet (51) for receiving external wind resistance airflow, by which the impeller is driven to rotate to generate auxiliary power. The present invention not only utilizes wind resistance, but also saves energy and protects the environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Inventor: Yang Cong
  • Publication number: 20130000994
    Abstract: A solar-powered hybrid vehicle disclosed in the present invention comprises a vehicle body, a vehicle energy configuration system, and a brake energy recovery system. The vehicle body collects solar energy through a collection system of solar energy. The solar energy collected is stored in the vehicle energy configuration system of the vehicle. The brake energy recovery device is connected with a battery through a solar charging circuit. A sensor is provided between the vehicle energy configuration system and the battery. The body energy configure system is connected with an automatic control system, an external charging interface and an electric motor. Through the integration of a number of technical solutions, the present invention reduces energy consumption, improves the level of utilization of solar energy, and is more fashionable and fit for human use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2011
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Inventor: Shuyi Zhu
  • Publication number: 20120234612
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2011
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Applicant: TOYOTA MOTOR ENGINEERING & MANUFACTURING NORTH AMERICA, INC.
    Inventor: Woodson Wayne Samuel
  • Publication number: 20120211286
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a hybrid variant automobile drive which improves a fuel efficiency of the automobile while retaining an acceleration profile of the automobile. In one embodiment, the present invention includes an engine, wheels, and/or a supplemental motor. The engine primarily drives the wheels, but can be aided by the supplemental motor. An amount of force supplied by the engine can be dependent on an amount of force supplied by the supplemental motor. The supplemental motor uses alternative energy sources aside from the fuel used by the engine to drive the wheels. The supplemental motor can be powered by a capacitor which is charged by an energy generation unit. The energy generation unit can generate energy using, for example, solar panels, a ram induction generator, a regenerative braking unit, and/or a heat exchange unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2011
    Publication date: August 23, 2012
    Applicant: TOYOTA MOTOR ENGINEERING & MANUFACTURING NORTH AMERICA, INC.
    Inventor: Woodson Wayne Samuel
  • Patent number: 8240416
    Abstract: A wind-powered pneumatic engine including one or more impeller chambers and one or more impellers disposed in the impeller chambers is provided. One or more air inlets for receiving external wind resistance airflow are disposed on the impeller chambers, and the external wind resistance airflow entering the air inlets drives the impellers to operate to generate power output. The wind-powered pneumatic engine further includes an air-jet system for jetting HPCA into the impeller chambers, and the internal high-pressure compressed air jetted by the air-jet system in conjunction with the external wind resistance airflow entering the air inlets drives the impellers to operate to generate power output. In the present invention, the external resistance airflow around a motor vehicle moving at a speed is converted into power for use, which greatly reduces energy consumption and improves the moving speed of a motor vehicle. A motor vehicle equipped with wind-powered pneumatic engine is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Yang Cong
    Inventor: Yang Cong
  • Patent number: 8235150
    Abstract: A pneumatic hybrid turbo transmission for reduced energy consumption is disclosed. A pneumatic hybrid turbo transmission configured as a multi-purpose unit (MPU). The MPU recovers energy from the cooling system, exhaust system, ram pressure and the breaking system. The MPU unit is an automatic transmission, supercharger, air compressor for other uses, and starter for the engine using a multi-purpose unit that will eliminate the need for a torque converter or clutch, flywheel, catalytic converter, starter and supercharger. The MPU reduces pollution to near zero and reduces the aerodynamic drag coefficient on the vehicle. The MPU uses two or more in-line compressors to transfer power from the power source, such as an internal combustion engine (ICE) to a turbine or multi-stage turbine that acts as an automatic transmission. The pneumatic hybrid turbo transmission system uses plug-in power as a second source of power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Inventor: Rez Mustafa
  • Publication number: 20120181095
    Abstract: The instant invention is an electric machine/tractor particularly intended for farming, gardening and landscaping and is nonpolluting and self charging. The tractor accommodates standard farm implements and can supply electrical power to remote areas. To achieve these goals, the machine is comprised of a frame and wheels which are driven independently by hydraulic motors powered by a variable volume, hydrostatic pump that is driven in line, by an electric motor that also drives a hydraulic lift pump and a power-take-off shaft through belts. The hydrostatic pump is controlled by the operator for forward and reverse motion. The electric motor is powered by batteries and the batteries can be recharged by an on-board photoelectric panel. A combination charger/inverter is located aboard the tractor to charge the batteries from any 110V A.C. power outlet or generate 110V A.C. electrical power from the tractor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2011
    Publication date: July 19, 2012
    Inventor: Gilbert Thomas Lopez
  • Patent number: 8220570
    Abstract: An energy-producing system comprising an axle configured to be driven by an electric vehicle's wheels when in motion. The axle supports a series of wind-catching cups contained within an aerodynamic housing configured to direct air to the cups while also increasing the air speed. During vehicle motion, the cups are acted upon by rushing air causing the rotation of the axle such that the rotation may be transferred into energy via a generator/alternator linked thereto. A series of similarly polarized magnets integrated on said cups and proximate thereto further maintain the axle in motion during short vehicle stops. The system extends the life of the batteries between charges as well the distance the vehicle can travel between charges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Inventor: Cecil G. Knickerbocker
  • Patent number: 8220569
    Abstract: The present disclosure includes an electric vehicle without an internal combustion engine. The vehicle comprises at least one electric motor connected to a drive axle, and a plurality of rechargeable batteries to provide stored electrical energy to the motor. The batteries are recharged by multiple sources of energy. Wind energy is collected through a system including funnel-shape ducts and turbines. Solar energy is collected through a plurality of solar panels. Thermal energy radiated from a driving surface is collected with thermal receptors. The vehicle may also include a generator connected to an axle. The vehicle is provided with a management control system to regulate and combine electrical power from the wind, solar, thermal, and generator sources, and selectively direct power to the motor for driving, and the batteries for recharge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Inventor: M. Hassan Hassan
  • Patent number: 8215421
    Abstract: The Safety, Power and Shade Device is a system usable with wheelchairs providing an upright and horizontal frame attachable by brackets to a wheelchair seat back. The frame allows for the installation of safety and illumination lights, a solar panel for supplemental recharging of an electric wheelchair battery and a mean of shelter or shade. The frame assembly is constructed to allow the horizontal frame to fold over and behind the wheelchair for a vertical relationship with the frame upright.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Inventor: David Kurt Schneider
  • Patent number: 8196684
    Abstract: A wearable folding wing apparatus includes a top central support ring having a pair of connected shoulder straps and a pair of selectively horizontally and vertically orientable wing support beams connected to the top central support ring with slidable connections. A pair of collapsible and extendable wing members are connected to the selectively horizontally and vertically orientable wing support beams. A user may employ provided arm connectors to lift and lower the selectively horizontally and vertically orientable wing support beams in order to deploy and collapse the wing members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Inventor: Joseph C. Caiozza
  • Publication number: 20120125700
    Abstract: A new method for a continuous operating electric vehicle has been disclosed an electric vehicle can be made to operate on a consistent basis by installing a wind turbine generator as a charging device, as the vehicle moves along the turbine delivers the charging volts and amps needed to charge the batteries.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 22, 2010
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Inventor: Rudolph Volroy Bailey, SR.
  • Patent number: 8181724
    Abstract: A wind-powered pneumatic engine including one or more impeller chambers and one or more impellers disposed in the impeller chambers is provided. One or more air inlets for receiving external wind resistance airflow are disposed on the impeller chambers, and the external wind resistance airflow entering the air inlets drives the impellers to operate to generate power output. The wind-powered pneumatic engine further includes an air-jet system for jetting HPCA into the impeller chambers, and the internal high-pressure compressed air jetted by the air-jet system in conjunction with the external wind resistance airflow entering the air inlets drives the impellers to operate to generate power output. In the present invention, the external resistance airflow around a motor vehicle moving at a speed is converted into power for use, which greatly reduces energy consumption and improves the moving speed of a motor vehicle. A motor vehicle equipped with wind-powered pneumatic engine is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Inventor: Yang Cong
  • Patent number: 8177002
    Abstract: A wind-powered pneumatic engine including one or more impeller chambers and one or more impellers disposed in the impeller chambers is provided. One or more air inlets for receiving external wind resistance airflow are disposed on the impeller chambers, and the external wind resistance airflow entering the air inlets drives the impellers to operate to generate power output. The wind-powered pneumatic engine further includes an air-jet system for jetting HPCA into the impeller chambers, and the internal high-pressure compressed air jetted by the air-jet system in conjunction with the external wind resistance airflow entering the air inlets drives the impellers to operate to generate power output. In the present invention, the external resistance airflow around a motor vehicle moving at a speed is converted into power for use, which greatly reduces energy consumption and improves the moving speed of a motor vehicle. A motor vehicle equipped with wind-powered pneumatic engine is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Inventor: Yang Cong
  • Publication number: 20120085587
    Abstract: A modular wind turbine device mountable in a plurality of locations along the exterior of a vehicle. The device comprises a low profile air inlet, a rotatable turbine that utilizes incoming air flow for motive power, and an alternator device for transforming the rotation of the turbine into usable electric power. The air inlet is a raised air scoop that protrudes from the external surface of the vehicle, similar to forced air induction inlets or brake cooling inlets on current vehicles. The inlet is shrouded with a mesh screen to prevent discrete objects from entering or interfering with the turbine device. The turbine is an elongated cylinder with protruding fins that utilize the pressure of the incoming air flow to spin about its central axis. A side-mounted alternator provides a core that spins within a stator to produce an electric current. The electric current is fed to a power management system for controlling and powering a battery pack.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2011
    Publication date: April 12, 2012
    Inventor: David Drouin
  • Publication number: 20120073885
    Abstract: A motorized vehicle having a plurality of solar panels for charging at least one battery, comprises: a) a motorized vehicle having motor power means and having an internal structure to accommodate at least one person, and having an external body structure, the motorized vehicle having a predetermined top-view footprint; b) at least one storage battery having a capacity in excess of the motorized vehicle starting requirements and adapted to power at least one non-starter mechanism; c) a plurality of solar panels having an active solar cell top and a solar cell support bottom, at least one of the plurality of solar panels physically connected to the external body structure of the motor vehicle and electrically connected to the at least one storage battery; the plurality of solar panels having a first position and a second position wherein at least one of the plurality of solar panels is positioned within the footprint in first position and at least one of the plurality of solar panels extends beyond the footpri
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2010
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Inventor: Kenneth P. Glynn
  • Patent number: 8141666
    Abstract: A solar powered baggage cart that includes a baggage container portion, an operator platform, front wheels and rear wheels underlying the baggage cart for supporting, and an array of photo-voltaic cells located in an overlying relationship to the container. The cells are in electrical communication with a bank of batteries through a charging control circuit for charging the batteries, which are mounted under the baggage cart and are electrically connected to one or more electric motor/pumps. The electric motor/pumps are in mechanical communication with respective drive motors and brakes for the front and rear wheels. The baggage cart is configured to steer in one of three modes, a front wheel steer mode, a rear wheel assist steer mode or a crab steer mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Inventor: Jeff Ganiere
  • Publication number: 20120061152
    Abstract: A method for generating electricity from solar power to an emergency and utility vehicles relying on a photovoltaic panels (1) DC disconnects (2,3); charge controller (4); batteries (5); emergency and utility vehicles (7); electrical wires, and fuses. The photovoltaic panel(s) will generate electrical power that will provide sufficient power to run the emergency and utility vehicles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2010
    Publication date: March 15, 2012
    Inventors: Christopher John Reichart, Gerald Gilbert Glass
  • Patent number: 8122981
    Abstract: A solar cell system for vehicles and a control method thereof, wherein even when a change of electric power generated from a solar cell is high, the variable voltage devices and the constant voltage devices selectively distribute the electric power according to the electric power without changing voltage. Accordingly, energy efficiency can be improved, the number of components can be reduced without using a voltage converter, and energy conversion loss can be decreased. Further, electric power generated from the solar cell is used for ventilation, air purification, cool and warmth, and convenience devices of a vehicle. Thus, a driver is provided with a controlled environment when riding on the vehicle. Accordingly, the present invention can meet a driver's requirements for the utilization of convenience devices and can provide a comfortable interior environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Assignee: Halla Climate Control Corporation
    Inventors: Kil Sang Jang, Dae Woong Lee
  • Publication number: 20120043143
    Abstract: A solar electric vehicle (SEV) with large foldable surface area that can be oriented towards the sun for peak generation of electricity. The surfaces of the SEV are mounted on a flexible chassis for elevation tracking, while the drive train provides azimuth tracking. The SEV also integrates the conversion of power from various sources, to various storage or power consumption devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2011
    Publication date: February 23, 2012
    Inventors: Joseph Y. Hui, Joseph W. Bostaph, Haojun Lao, Daniel A. Zindel
  • Patent number: 8120308
    Abstract: A connection system is provided to charge a high voltage battery (42) in an electric vehicle with multiple low voltage solar panels (21-n). The connection system includes sets of transmission lines (94) to individually connect each one of the solar panels (21-n) to each individual one of the battery cells (341-n) making up the battery (42). With the connection system the high voltage battery (42) can be charged by the lower voltage solar panels (21-n) without using a lossy DC-DC converter system that converts the DC solar panel output to AC for transforming to the much higher voltage across the primary terminals of battery (42) before converting back to DC to connect to the battery (42).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Inventor: Thomas A. Ward
  • Publication number: 20120031686
    Abstract: The present disclosure pertains to a vehicle for transporting or vending refrigerated product having a peripheral body extending vertically from the supporting surface, the peripheral body having a driver area, retail area, and cooling area, a bulk head for dividing the retail area from the cooling area, and an auxiliary power system for powering at least one electrical component, having a battery bank and a charging mechanism, the charging mechanism having a vehicle charging system, shore power charging system, and solar array charging system, the charging mechanism imparting electrical charge to the battery bank, where the electrical component is a temperature control system for maintaining the temperature of the cooling area within a desired temperature range.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2011
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Inventor: Max Ferrigni
  • Patent number: 8109354
    Abstract: An oxyhydrogen vehicle includes an oxyhydrogen generating unit for electrolytically converting an electrolyte into oxyhydrogen gas, a combustible fuel supply unit for storing combustible fuel, an engine unit coupled to the oxyhydrogen generating unit and the combustible fuel supply unit, and an electric power supply system electrically connected to the oxyhydrogen generating unit for providing electric power thereto. The electric power supply system includes: a storage battery; an alternator driven by the engine unit to generate an electrical output, and electrically connected to the storage battery; a current controller electrically connecting the storage battery and the alternator to the oxyhydrogen generating unit for controlling electric current flow to the oxyhydrogen generating unit; and an auxiliary electricity generating unit electrically connected to the storage battery, and driven by renewable energy resources so as to generate an electrical output for charging the storage battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignee: Yu Chuan Technology Enterprise Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Wen-Chang Lin
  • Patent number: 8104557
    Abstract: To enable control the number of revolutions of a wheel with a new structure different from an induction motor and adjust the maximum torque rapidly and accurately. A linear drive travel system includes a metal wheel 20 having a drum rotor and a stator 30 arranged inside the metal wheel 20. The stator 30 includes a plurality of rows of electromagnets 32 arranged in the direction of rotation axis, each row being formed of a plurality of electromagnets 32 arranged along the circumference around a rotary shaft 40. A drum rotor includes a plurality of arc-shaped rotor cores 23 arranged along the circumference around the rotary shaft 40. Control means (control system 80) performs control by allowing electromagnets 32 in some rows to be a magnetization coil of the rotor core and by allowing the electromagnets 32 in other rows to be a rotation coil of the drum motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventors: Sachio Takahashi, Kazuo Fuda
  • Patent number: 8087487
    Abstract: A hybrid turbo transmission for reduced energy consumption is disclosed. A hybrid turbo transmission configured as a multi-purpose unit (MPU). The MPU recovers energy from the cooling system, exhaust system, ram pressure and the breaking system. The MPU unit is an automatic transmission, supercharger, air compressor for other uses, and starter for the engine using a multi-purpose unit that will eliminate the need for a torque converter or clutch, flywheel, catalytic converter, starter and supercharger. The MPU reduces pollution to near zero and reduces the aerodynamic drag coefficient on the vehicle. The MPU uses two or more in-line compressors to transfer power from the power source, such as an internal combustion engine (ICE) to a turbine or multi-stage turbine that acts as an automatic transmission. The hybrid turbo transmission system uses plug-in power as a second source of power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Inventor: Rez Mustafa
  • Patent number: 8089242
    Abstract: An electrical management device for a vehicle power supply that includes a single converter to minimize the number of components required to simultaneously control two energy sources, such as a photovoltaic source and a thermoelectric source, on board a motor vehicle that includes at least one electrical energy storage battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: Renault S.A.S.
    Inventor: Serge Loudot
  • Patent number: 8075354
    Abstract: A marine vessel is constructed with a submerged front rotor/turbine that shields the vessel hull from water motion induced resistance force to a degree without significantly increasing the vessels water resistance while abstracting hydrodynamic energy from the vessel motion displaced water that would otherwise be dissipated/lost and couples or connects the resulting rotorary energy through mechanical or electrical means to assist in driving the vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Inventor: Thomas G. Packard
  • Publication number: 20110297459
    Abstract: The electric car is practically entirely covered in solar cells. Further, transparent solar cells are incorporated into the windshield and into the other windows of the car. The various features of the car give it considerable autonomy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2008
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Applicant: HAYEK ENGINEERING AG
    Inventors: Nicolas Georges Hayek, Nayla Hayek, Marianne Hayek
  • Publication number: 20110266075
    Abstract: The vehicle electrical energy generation system which employs one or a plurality of fans operatively engaged with a generator or alternator to generate electrical power. Incoming wind moves past fans engaged to rotate alternators or generators and exits to a secondary conduit as moving air. The moving air is directed to one or a plurality of conduits leading to one or a plurality of moving-air employing components from a group including, a de-fogging component, a windshield defroster, a windshield de-icing component, a wind powered windshield wiper, a passenger heating system, a battery heating component, and a battery cooling compartment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2011
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Inventor: Harry L. Guzelimian
  • Publication number: 20110247885
    Abstract: A solar powered baggage cart that includes a baggage container portion, an operator platform, front wheels and rear wheels underlying the baggage cart for supporting, and an array of photo-voltaic cells located in an overlying relationship to the container. The cells are in electrical communication with a bank of batteries through a charging control circuit for charging the batteries, which are mounted under the baggage cart and are electrically connected to one or more electric motor/pumps. The electric motor/pumps are in mechanical communication with respective drive motors and brakes for the front and rear wheels. The baggage cart is configured to steer in one of three modes, a front wheel steer mode, a rear wheel assist steer mode or a crab steer mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2010
    Publication date: October 13, 2011
    Inventor: Jeff Ganiere
  • Publication number: 20110240380
    Abstract: A sunshine angle adjustable solar energy electric wheel chair, a solar energy cell is mounted on the electric wheel chair so as to charge up a storage battery, left and right horizontal pipes for mounting the cell are supported by four lifted stand pipes, the height of the lifted stand pipes is adjusted, i.e. the sunshine angle may be adjusted at six azimuth, so that the charging current is maximized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2008
    Publication date: October 6, 2011
    Inventors: Tianyun Zhao, Le jun Su, Xiaofeng Zhao
  • Patent number: 8020646
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an electric charging roof on an automobile. The present invention can be or a method of manufacture of an automobile having a body with an interior, a roof attached to the body, a layer of paint coated on top of the roof, an energy storage unit located within the interior of the body, and a layer of photovoltaic material deposited on top of the layer of paint to form a solar panel connected to the energy storage unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Woodson Wayne Samuel
  • Publication number: 20110198135
    Abstract: The invention relaxes to a transport technical field and more precisely to power plants of cars and trucks arid may be used as a power plant of buses, motorcycles, electro-mobiles, in rolling stocks (electromotive, locomotive, carriage, van, etc.), metro, tram, trolleybus, in water-borne transportation and in air transport as well as for 2 creation of local power stations. The declared invention is characterized in that a combined aerodynamic power-plant (CAPP) in a vehicle motion generates by means of incoming air flow an electric energy and distributes it between the vehicle wheels. A quantity of the energy generated in air units of the power plant CAPP makes up not less than 50% of energy necessary and sufficient for uniform rectilinear motion of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2008
    Publication date: August 18, 2011
    Inventors: Liudmila Borisovna Kalinina, Yury Valentinovich Kriulin, Vsevolod Dmitrievich Kalinin
  • Patent number: 7997371
    Abstract: A power installation is proposed for conversion of airflow energy into compressed air energy used by a pneumo-motor or/and by an electro-generator associated with a control system. An embodiment of the installation comprises a number of turbine units arranged in box-sections serving as the walls and roof of a truck. The turbine unit includes X-shaped members supporting a shaft with a turbine driven by a resistance airflow appearing during movements of the truck. The rotation of the turbines is conveyed to a pump, charging a tank with compressed air, used for driving the truck. In embodiments the turbines' blades may comprise a load and may revolve in mutually opposite directions. The installation may include an additional compressor, or may include a first muff connecting the pneumatic motor to a power train, an additional fueled engine, and a second muff connecting the fueled engine to the power train.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Inventor: Vasyl Khymych
  • Publication number: 20110196535
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an overhead transmission line inspection robot and system for inspecting transmission line components and right of way conditions. The overhead transmission line inspection robot includes a communications and control system adapted to control the robot and transmit information and a drive system for propelling the robot along a shield wire to enable inspection over a large area. The robot further includes a camera adapted to inspect right of way and component conditions; a light detection and ranging (LiDar) sensor adapted to measure conductor position, vegetation, and nearby structures; and a global positioning system adapted to identify the robot's position and speed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2011
    Publication date: August 11, 2011
    Applicant: ELECTRIC POWER RESEARCH INSTITUTE, INC.
    Inventors: Andrew John Phillips, J. Mark Major, Glynn R. Bartlett
  • Publication number: 20110186360
    Abstract: A surface vehicle capable of overcoming obstacles is disclosed in which the vehicle accelerates vertically while having a horizontal velocity. The vehicle has a frame and at least three wheels attached to the frame to which a horizontal propulsion system is coupled. Further, a vertical propulsion system is coupled to the frame and the wheels. The vertical propulsion system is capable of providing a force to such wheels normal to the surface so that the vehicle separates from the surface. The vehicle has an electronic control unit coupled to the vertical propulsion system to automatically control its operation. Further, sensors are used to evaluate the characteristics of the surface that pertain to supporting a vertical acceleration/deceleration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2011
    Publication date: August 4, 2011
    Inventors: Wayne M. Brehob, Douglas C. MacKenzie
  • Publication number: 20110174554
    Abstract: A solar powered wheel apparatus comprising one or more photovoltaic cells housed on a rotatable element connected to a rotary object such as a wheel, an electric motor, and an axial shaft, is provided. The electric motor is in electric communication with the photovoltaic cells that power the electric motor and is rigidly connected to the rotatable element that houses the photovoltaic cells. The axial shaft is rotatably connected to the electric motor and rigidly connected to a support structure of the rotary object. The electric motor converts electrical energy produced by the photovoltaic cells into mechanical energy causing the electric motor to rotate about the axial shaft. The rotation of the electric motor rotates the rigidly connected rotatable element that houses the photovoltaic cells. The rotation of the rotatable element housing the photovoltaic cells removes heat from the photovoltaic cells and causes rotation of the connected rotary object.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2011
    Publication date: July 21, 2011
    Inventors: William Edward Lee, Robert F. Plenkowski
  • Publication number: 20110168459
    Abstract: An electrical power generation system that supplies electrical power to a vehicle is described herein. Rotational energy for the generator is provided by a motor having a paddle assembly. The forward or reverse motion of a vehicle having the presently disclosed system installed causes air to move through the paddle assembly. The moving air imparts a force upon the paddles that causes the paddles to rotate. The paddle assembly is in mechanical communication with the generator. Thus, the rotation of the motor is translated to rotation of the generator, providing for electrical power generation. The generation may be used to supply the electrical needs of various systems on the vehicle, as well as charging of the battery.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2011
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Applicant: FORTUNE ONE, LLC
    Inventor: Brian Benjamin Ganner
  • Publication number: 20110162896
    Abstract: A mode of transpiration type employing a plurality of inner-motorized omniwheel apparatus comprising at least one electric motor or an ignited fueled motor, and supported by a zero degree rotating motorized yoke having hydraulic actuation, and managed by control system modes that enables a said vehicle type to transport an operator, a passenger and cargo in any given manner, and powered by a battery array that is charged by an electrical grid source, and by a renewable energy power system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2010
    Publication date: July 7, 2011
    Inventor: Carla R. Gillett