Abstract: An articulate vehicle comprises a first frame disposed at one of front and rear portions of the vehicle and a second frame disposed at the other of front and rear portions of the vehicle. The first frame supports a first transaxle apparatus supporting a first axle. The second frame supports a second transaxle apparatus supporting a second axle. Proximal ends of the frames with respect to the vehicle are coupled to each other through a coupling part so that the first and second frames are rotatable relative to each other around a vertical axis according to steering operation. An engine is mounted on the first frame. A first hydraulic motor is integrally assembled in the first transaxle apparatus so as to drive the first axle. A working vehicle is equipped at a distal side of the second frame with respect to the vehicle. A second hydraulic motor is integrally assembled in the second transaxle apparatus so as to drive the second axle.

Abstract: A drive assembly for vehicles with front wheels and rear wheels, especially for tractors, agricultural machinery, construction machinery or for self-driving machines, has an engine (1), a first drive (15) to drive the rear wheels, a second drive (27) to drive the front wheels, an adjustable hydraulic pump (5) driven by the engine (1), and an adjustable first hydraulic motor (9). The first hydraulic motor (9), with respect to drive, is connected to the first drive (15) to drive the rear wheels. Also, the first hydraulic motor, with respect to drive, may be connected to the second drive (27), to drive the front wheels. A second hydraulic motor (10), with respect to drive, can be connected to the second drive (27) to drive the front wheels. The first hydraulic motor (9) has a high coefficient of efficiency within a first driving speed range of the vehicle. The second hydraulic motor (10) has a high coefficient of efficiency within a second driving speed range of the vehicle.

Abstract: A skid steer vehicle is supported on four gearboxes that function both as control arms and as speed reduction gearboxes. Each side of the vehicle's chassis has two gearboxes to which it is coupled. A hydraulic motor is fixed to each side of the chassis to drive the gearboxes on that side. The motors are arranged such that their drive shafts extend longitudinally along the chassis, with a front shaft engaging the front gearbox and a rear shaft engaging the rear gearbox. The gearboxes include three speed-reducing right angle gear sets coupling an axle extending from the gearbox to the motor driving that gearbox.

Abstract: An electric generating system for automobiles has a primary generator which is driven by an internal combustion engine of an automobile and supplies power to an electric load of the automobile and an electric motor for driving wheels of the automobile which are not driven by the internal combustion engine. A secondary generator is driven by the internal combustion engine and drives the motor. A control unit controls the secondary generator and the electric motor. The control circuit controls the output of the generator according to a driving force requested by the automobile, and the driving force of the electric motor is controlled by the output of the secondary generator.

Abstract: In a hydraulic transmission for driving and steering wheels of a vehicle, which has at least a first pair of laterally disposed wheels, a first hydraulic pump is operatively connected to a driving source with inlet/outlet ports respectively and fluidly connected to a high pressure side and a low pressure side of the parallel fluid passages. A second hydraulic pump is operatively connected to the driving source and having inlet/outlet ports respectively and fluidly connected to high and low pressure sides of the fluid passages between the second pair of hydraulic motors. The first hydraulic pump is of a variable displacement type that varies the amount of hydraulic fluid to be discharged and supplied, based upon the displacement amount of a first output adjustment member, in which the displacement amount is varied by operating the first output adjustment member via a driving-speed operation member.

Abstract: A articulate vehicle comprises a first frame disposed at one of front and rear portions of the vehicle and a second frame disposed at the other of front and rear portions of the vehicle. The first frame supports a first transaxle apparatus supporting a first axle. The second frame supports a second transaxle apparatus supporting a second axle. Proximal ends of the frames with respect to the vehicle are coupled to each other through a coupling part so that the first and second frames are rotatable relative to each other around a vertical axis according to steering operation. An engine is mounted on the first frame. A first hydraulic motor is integrally assembled in the first transaxle apparatus so as to drive the first axle. A working vehicle is equipped at a distal side of the second frame with respect to the vehicle. A second hydraulic motor is integrally assembled in the second transaxle apparatus so as to drive the second axle.

Abstract: A skid steer vehicle has a suspension that includes two bogies pivotally connected to the sides of the vehicle and extending fore-and-aft along each side of the vehicle. The bogies are pivotally connected to the vehicle in the middle and have a wheel mounted at each end. A hydraulic motor is coupled to each of the bogies and drives the two wheels on each bogie.

Abstract: The vehicle has two groups of displacement members (1, 2, 3, 4), one of which groups is steerable. The apparatus comprises a closed transmission circuit which includes a pump (50) and hydraulic motors (10, 20, 30, 40). A first group of motors that serves to drive two displacement members on the same axle comprises at least two double motors (30, 40), each having two operating cubic capacities forming two elementary motors (31, 32; 41, 42). The first elementary motor (31, 41) of each of the double motors is connected to the pump (50) in parallel with a motor (10, 20) of the other group, while the second elementary motor (32, 42) is connected in series with said motor of the other group. There thus exist first and second series ducts (C32, C42) between the motors.

Abstract: A drive power from an engine is transferred to front wheel drive systems and rear wheel drive systems via a central differential. A torque distribution ratio between front and rear wheels defined by the central differential is set to one for the front wheels being made too much thereof, with a motor generator being coupled to the rear wheel drive systems. In response to detection signals from various sensors for detecting the running conditions, a drive power control unit controls the additional torque from the motor generator toward the drive torque or regenerative braking torque side, thereby changing the torque distribution ratio between the front and rear wheels. Thus, a degree of flexibility in making a change in the torque distribution between front and rear wheels or between right and left wheels is increased, thereby realizing an all-wheel drivable hybrid vehicle which provides further improved running performance.

Abstract: An improved valve for use in a hydrostatic drive apparatus for a vehicle such as a zero turn vehicle. For each hydraulic drive system in the vehicle, a valve is located between the high and low pressure sides of the closed hydraulic circuit connecting the hydraulic pump and motor. The valve opens when the pressure rise rate in the high pressure side reaches a set level to minimize pressure spikes in the high pressure side and thus improve performance of the vehicle. A valve block may be used to mount the valve, and a second valve may also be included therein to connect the two pressure sides of the hydraulic circuit in a similar manner when the vehicle is operated in reverse.

Abstract: A hydraulic four-wheel driving apparatus is provided for a vehicle having a pair of left and right unsteerable wheels and a pair of left and right steerable wheels. The hydraulic four-wheel driving apparatus comprises: a transmission casing supporting the unsteerable wheels; a hydraulic pump disposed integrally with the transmission casing, the hydraulic pump being driven by a power source outside the transmission casing; a first hydraulic motor for driving the unsteerable wheels fluidly connected to the hydraulic pump, the first hydraulic motor being disposed integrally with the transmission casing; and a second hydraulic motor for driving the steerable wheels fluidly connected to the hydraulic pump, the second hydraulic motor being disposed integrally with the transmission casing and disposed on one side of the first hydraulic motor toward the steerable wheels.

Abstract: A vehicle, comprising a prime mover, a steering operation device, a first transaxle apparatus disposed at one of front and rear portions of the vehicle, and a second transaxle apparatus disposed at the other of front and rear portions of the vehicle. The first transaxle apparatus supports a pair of right and left first axles, and a pair of right and left first wheels are attached to outermost ends of the respective first axles so as to be turned laterally according to manipulation of the steering operation device. A first differential gear unit of the first transaxle apparatus differentially connects the first axles to each other. The first transaxle apparatus supports a power take-off shaft. A transmission of the first transaxle apparatus is driven by the prime mover. Output force of the transmission is shared between the first differential gear unit and the power take-off shaft.

Abstract: A working vehicle with a traversing system wherein a front wheel is installed on a swing member rotatable about a vertical axis relative to a body and including a rotating cylinder for rotating the swing member. The entire part of the front wheel is formed compact in connection with a drivingly running device stored in the swing range of the front wheel. A battery mountable on the body comprises a wide front part movable in the vehicle longitudinal direction between rear wheels in the straight forward running attitude. A narrow rear part is positioned between the rear wheels in the transverse running attitude, whereby the attachment and detachment of the wheel can be preformed easily and can be mounted stably.

Abstract: A hydrostatic drive (1) with a hydraulic pump (3) and a plurality of hydraulic motors (6-9) that are hydraulically linked with the hydraulic pump (3). One speed sensor (20; 21; 22; 23) each allocated to a respective hydraulic motor (6; 7; 8; 9) and is linked with a control device (24) and detects the speed (n1; n2; n3; n4) of the allocated hydraulic motor (6; 7; 8; 9). Every hydraulic motor (6; 7; 8; 9) is functionally linked with a brake device (26; 27; 28; 29) that in turn is linked with the control device (24). When the speed (n1; n2; n3; n4) of one of the hydraulic motors (6; 7; 8; 9) exceeds a predetermined threshold value (ng), the control device (24) triggers the brake device (26; 27; 28; 29) allocated to the associated hydraulic motor (6; 7; 8; 9).

Abstract: A motorized vehicle having a distributed motor system, i.e. having a plurality of electric drive motors (12) each coupled to a respective traction wheel (10a), all under the control of a controller (13). All or only some of the wheels may be traction wheels (10a), and each traction wheel (10a) may also have a steering motor (21a), and each may even also have a wheel positioning motor (27) for repositioning the wheel relative to the chassis (10c), e.g. during a turn. Each electric drive motor (12), steering motor (21a) and wheel positioning motor (27) may be integrated into a wheel manipulator element (31), with all wheel manipulator elements (31) operative according to signals received from the controller (13) and using power provided via the controller (13). Each wheel manipulator element (31) typically provides the controller (13) with signals indicating the motion of the respective wheel (10a).

Abstract: An all wheel drive system for a motor vehicle in which wheel slippage is effectively controlled and regenerative energy is effectively stored for subsequent utilization in the system. A hydraulic embodiment of the invention includes a hydraulic motor, a pump, a tank, an accumulator for storing pressurized fluid, and a device for sensing system back pressure. In response to a loss of system back pressure the pressure of the fluid being supplied to the motor is reduced and the motor discharge is directed to the accumulator, and in response to a sensed resumption of system back pressure regenerative energy from the accumulator is directed to the motor to assist in powering the motor. An electric embodiment of the invention includes an electric motor, an electric generator, a device for storing electrical energy such as a battery pack or a capacitor bank, a DC tachometer driven by the motor and operative to sense the motor power requirements, and a directional circuit switch assembly.

Abstract: A running power transmission mechanism includes a main-transmission device and a steering-wheel speed change device. The steering-wheel speed change device in turn includes a non-stepwise speed change unit and a planetary differential unit. Drive power from the main-transmission device is inputted into a first element of the planetary differential unit, and output of the non-stepwise speed change unit is inputted into a second element of the planetary differential unit, while steering-wheel drive power is taken off from a third element of the planetary differential unit. Also, the speed of the output of the non-stepwise speed change unit is changed according to the steering angle of the steering wheels.

Abstract: Turning radius is calculated from steering angles of steering-wheels and articulation angles of respective frames, and the steering-wheels are automatically rotated faster than rear-wheels based on the turning radius, the revolution number of the rear-wheels, engine speed of an engine and a speed range of hydraulic motors, so that conventional trouble for manipulating operation lever etc. while turning a motor grader and skill-requiring work for adjusting the revolution number of the steering-wheels in accordance with the revolution number of the rear-wheels can be eliminated, thereby easily and accurately controlling the revolution number of the steering-wheels and securely preventing tight-corner braking phenomenon.

Abstract: A land vehicle has four wheels (10) by which the vehicle is driven and steered and the wheels are driven by hydraulic motors (11). In one arrangement the vehicle is steered by at least one pair of steerable wheels and supply of fluid to the motors is arranged to reduce the speed of a wheel or wheels at one side of the vehicle during turning. The vehicle can also be operated in the skid steer mode with the wheels locked in a straight ahead position.

Abstract: Steering system for vehicles comprises a frame with a front axle and a rear axle, at least one of these carrying two steered wheels, the wheels of each axle being driven by a hydraulic motor via a differential unit, the steered wheels being connected, for steering control, to a cylinder-piston unit fed by a usual power steering device, in which at least the hydraulic motor associated with one axle is of variable piston displacement, and is associated with piston displacement adjustment means governed by the position of the cylinder of the cylinder-piston unit which controls the steering.

Abstract: A hydrostatic module is disclosed, including a pair of shafts rotatably supported by a frame. Two yokes are pivotally mounted on the frame, each having complimentary surfaces to the other yoke and to the frame, minimizing the space occupied by the yokes. Stop means are provided on the yokes and on the frame to limit the pivotal movement of the yokes. A hydrostatic power unit is carried by each yoke, each connected to one of the shafts. A control system, having a single piece control housing containing servo pistons, pivots the yokes. The servo pistons independently determine the orientation of the yokes. A single piece fluid control porting plate is secured to the control housing to route hydraulic fluid to multiple locations within the control housing. A fluid manifold serves as a main structural element, with intimate proximity between the manifold and the control housing allowing simplified fluid exchange therebetween.

Abstract: A skid steer vehicle has a drive system that includes a hydraulic motor coupled to a speed-reduction gearbox. One or more drive shafts extend fore-and-aft from the gearbox and are coupled at each end to two axle housings. Each axle housing includes two reduction gear sets and an axle. Each of the axles extends outward from the vehicle and a wheel is fixed to its outer end. A spur gear on a parallel shaft inside the axle housing engages a spur gear on the axle and drives it to provide one gear reduction. A bevel gear in the axle housing engages a bevel gear on the parallel shaft to provide another gear reduction. The vehicle has a drive system located on each side of the vehicle to collectively drive four wheels.

Abstract: In a motor drive mode of a hybrid vehicle where an engine is at a stop and the vehicle is driven with only the power from a motor, the motor is driven and controlled in a range up to a specific electric power, which is calculated by subtracting a starting electric power Ps required to start the engine from a maximum electric power Pmax output from a battery. At the time of starting the engine, the control stops the operations of auxiliary machinery, which is driven with the electric power from the battery, until completion of the start of the engine.

Abstract: An electronic anti-skid device for motor vehicles with hydrostatic transmission has at least one sensor for the transmission of data pertaining to the output of the hydrostatic transmission, a steering angle detector and an electronic computer. The electronic computer uses data from the sensor to calculate theoretical power output of the hydraulic motors of the driver wheels of the vehicles and, thus, the theoretical speed of the wheels. The electronic computer is programmed to scan the detectors at very rapid intervals, and to adjust, on each scan, hydraulic output from output regulators. The output regulators have electrical controllers and are coupled to each hydraulic motor of a driven wheel way as to limit the power from each regulator to a value marginally above the theoretical output for the motor of the wheel to which the power regulator is connected.

Abstract: A articulate vehicle comprises a first frame disposed at one of front and rear portions of the vehicle and a second frame disposed at the other of front and rear portions of the vehicle. The first frame supports a first transaxle apparatus supporting a first axle. The second frame supports a second transaxle apparatus supporting a second axle. Proximal ends of the frames with respect to the vehicle are coupled to each other through a coupling part so that the first and second frames are rotatable relative to each other around a vertical axis according to steering operation. An engine is mounted on the first frame. A first hydraulic motor is integrally assembled in the first transaxle apparatus so as to drive the first axle. A working vehicle is equipped at a distal side of the second frame with respect to the vehicle. A second hydraulic motor is integrally assembled in the second transaxle apparatus so as to drive the second axle.

Abstract: A control device for electric motors and a method for monitoring the serviceability of a transmission part arranged for transmission of torque between an electric motor and a load during operation. The method comprises the steps of initiating at least one test sequence, and sending a signal indicating an error if said at least one test sequence indicates that the serviceability of the transmission part is not acceptable and if no further test sequences are to be performed. Additionally, said at least one test sequence includes the steps of setting a rotation speed of the electric motor at a test rotation speed, which differs from the rotation speed of the electric motor immediately prior to said setting, and measuring at the electric motor, within a period starting from the setting of the rotation speed of the motor and ending when the rotation speed of the electric motor has reached the test rotation speed.

Abstract: Between a speed reducing mechanism (15, 17, 19) for speed-reducing drive power of an electric motor and a differential apparatus (7) for distributing speed-reduced drive power to axle ends is disposed a clutch (5) configured for interruptive transmission of drive power.

Abstract: A hydraulic four-wheel driving apparatus is provided for a vehicle having a pair of left and right unsteerable wheels and a pair of left and right steerable wheels. The hydraulic four-wheel driving apparatus comprises: a transmission casing supporting the unsteerable wheels; a hydraulic pump disposed integrally with the transmission casing, the hydraulic pump being driven by a power source outside the transmission casing; a first hydraulic motor for driving the unsteerable wheels fluidly connected to the hydraulic pump, the first hydraulic motor being disposed integrally with the transmission casing; and a second hydraulic motor for driving the steerable wheels fluidly connected to the hydraulic pump, the second hydraulic motor being disposed integrally with the transmission casing and disposed on one side of the first hydraulic motor toward the steerable wheels.

Abstract: An articulate vehicle comprises a first frame disposed at one of front and rear portions of the vehicle and a second frame disposed at the other of front and rear portions of the vehicle. The first frame supports a first transaxle apparatus supporting a first axle. The second frame supports a second transaxle apparatus supporting a second axle. Proximal ends of the frames with respect to the vehicle are coupled to each other through a coupling part so that the first and second frames are rotatable relative to each other around a vertical axis according to steering operation. An engine is mounted on the first frame. A first hydraulic motor is integrally assembled in the first transaxle apparatus so as to drive the first axle. A working vehicle is equipped at a distal side of the second frame with respect to the vehicle. A second hydraulic motor is integrally assembled in the second transaxle apparatus so as to drive the second axle.

Abstract: A vehicle driving arrangement with at least two axes, each having at least one driven wheel that can be acted upon with a torque of a motor, the motor/motors of each axis being arranged in a supply line, the supply lines being parallel to each other and connected with a pump device, and a valve arrangement being arranged in at least one supply line. It is desired to improve the operability of a hydraulically driven vehicle. For this purpose, the valve arrangement in one supply line has a pressure reducing valve that limits the pressure difference over the other supply line to a maximum value.

Abstract: A articulate vehicle comprises a first frame disposed at one of front and rear portions of the vehicle and a second frame disposed at the other of front and rear portions of the vehicle. The first frame supports a first transaxle apparatus supporting a first axle. The second frame supports a second transaxle apparatus supporting a second axle. Proximal ends of the frames with respect to the vehicle are coupled to each other through a coupling part so that the first and second frames are rotatable relative to each other around a vertical axis according to steering operation. An engine is mounted on the first frame. A first hydraulic motor is integrally assembled in the first transaxle apparatus so as to drive the first axle. A working vehicle is equipped at a distal side of the second frame with respect to the vehicle. A second hydraulic motor is integrally assembled in the second transaxle apparatus so as to drive the second axle.

Abstract: A propulsion system for a four-wheel-drive vehicle, including four independently powered, computer controlled wheel assemblies (24). A turbogenerator (10) for charging a storage battery (12). A power distribution unit with a central processing unit (18). A power-sensor harness (26). A separate air-conditioner (16) for providing cold, filtered, dehumidified-air for cooling the motor-generators (40). Floor mounted accelerator and brake pedals (82)(84) coupled with electronic means (86) for accelerating, decelerating and braking the vehicle. A fuel tank (20) for running the turbogenerator (10). A comprehensive, state of the art instrument panel with electronic and audio instrumentation covering every vital function of the propulsion system. The instrument panel is not illustrated.

Abstract: A articulate vehicle comprises a first frame disposed at one of front and rear portions of the vehicle and a second frame disposed at the other of front and rear portions of the vehicle. The first frame supports a first transaxle apparatus supporting a first axle. The second frame supports a second transaxle apparatus supporting a second axle. Proximal ends of the frames with respect to the vehicle are coupled to each other through a coupling part so that the first and second frames are rotatable relative to each other around a vertical axis according to steering operation. An engine is mounted on the first frame. A first hydraulic motor is integrally assembled in the first transaxle apparatus so as to drive the first axle. A working vehicle is equipped at a distal side of the second frame with respect to the vehicle. A second hydraulic motor is integrally assembled in the second transaxle apparatus so as to drive the second axle.

Abstract: The invention relates to a hydrostatic traveling mechanism (4) that comprises a closed hydraulic circuit (6) in which a first hydraulic pump (4) with a first hydraulic engine (12) is linked with a flow pipe (7) and a return pipe (8). Said hydraulic engine (12) drives the vehicle wheels (14, 15, 18, 19) of two first vehicle axles (17, 20). According to the invention, an additional open hydraulic circuit (9) is used in which a second hydraulic engine (22) and a third hydraulic engine (24) are linked with a second hydraulic pump (5) via a supply pipe (11) and a control valve (21). Said second hydraulic engine (22) and said third hydraulic engine (24) drive the vehicle wheels (23, 25) of a second vehicle axle (36).

Abstract: The invention relates to a hydrostatic drive (1) with a hydraulic pump (2) and a first hydraulic engine (10) that is linked with the hydraulic pump (2) via a first working line section (4), the hydraulic engine driving a first drive train (11). The hydrostatic drive further comprises a second hydraulic engine (14) that is linked with the first hydraulic engine (10) via a second working line section (5), the second hydraulic engine driving a second drive train (15). The second hydraulic engine (14) is linked with the hydraulic pump (3) via a third working line section (6). According to the invention, an on-off valve (8) is located in the first working line section (4) and the second working line section (5). When a slip arises at the first drive train (11), said on-off valve can link the first working line section (5) with the second working line section (5) directly, that is while by-passing the first hydraulic engine (10).

Abstract: A skid steer loader has a chassis having front and rear ends, and an engine mounted to the rear end of the chassis. There are four suspensions pivotally coupled to the chassis to pivot with respect to the chassis. Two of the suspensions are extended laterally outward from the left side of the chassis and the other two suspensions are extended laterally outward from the right side of the chassis. Wheels on the suspensions are driven by drive shafts extending from a longitudinal splitter box that, in turn, are coupled to two hydraulic motors.

Abstract: An articulated hauler, such as a dumper, is disclosed. The hauler includes a vehicle part housing or carrying the drive engine, and a load-bearing vehicle part. The vehicle parts are pivotably interconnected about a vertical pin. The load-bearing vehicle part is provided with at least one first wheel axle driven by the drive engine via a mechanical transmission is arranged at a first distance from the vertical pin. The vehicle part bearing the drive engine is provided with at least one second wheel axle driven by the drive engine. The second wheel axle is arranged at a second distance from the vertical pin. The second wheel axle on the vehicle part bearing the drive engine is also able to be driven via a hydrostatic transmission.

Abstract: The invention provides a driving apparatus for use in vehicles of the type wherein both the front and rear wheels are driven. The apparatus effectively prevents the steerable wheels from skidding while transmitting power to the steerable wheels when turning the vehicle. The apparatus comprises a transmission unit 13 for receiving a rotational output from a main HST 50, a steerable wheel drive shaft 6 and a nonsteerable wheel drive shaft 5 for receiving the rotational output from the transmission unit and delivering the output respectively to an axle for driving the steerable wheels and an axle for driving the nonsteerable wheels, and a differential unit for rotating the drive shaft 6 at an increased speed and the drive shaft 5 at a decreased speed.

Abstract: A hydrostatic traction drive includes a first hydrostatic motor and at least one drive unit effectively connected with the motor. The motor is connected with a second motor into a modular unit, and the motors are positioned coaxially with respect to each other. At least one of the motors has a variable displacement. Between the motors and/or between at least one motor and the drive unit that is effectively connected with it, there is a clutch that can be disengaged in operation. On the motor-side of the hydrostatic traction drive, it thereby becomes possible to vary the transmission ratio continuously and without interrupting the traction. The clutch connected between the motors makes it possible to disconnect one of the motors and thereby reduce power loss and wear. Output-side clutches make it possible to disengage drive units from the motors.

Abstract: A propulsion system for a four-wheel-drive vehicle, including four independently powered, computer controlled wheel assemblies (24). A turbogenerator (10) for charging a storage battery (12). A power distribution unit with a central processing unit (18). A power-sensor harness (26). A separate air-conditioner (16) for providing cold, filtered, dehumidified-air for cooling the motor-generators (40). Floor mounted accelerator and brake pedals (82)(84) coupled with electronic means (86) for accelerating, decelerating and braking the vehicle. A fuel tank (20) for running the turbogenerator (10). A comprehensive, state of the art instrument panel with electronic and audio instrumentation covering every vital function of the propulsion system. The instrument panel is not illustrated.

Abstract: This invention is a method and system to disconnect drive wheels from the powertrain of any electric powered vehicle. A vehicle controller monitors input from, for example, an inertia switch and electric motor generator conditions and can disconnect the output shaft from the drive wheels in predetermined vehicle conditions such as during a rear-end collision, or abnormal electric motor conditions such as over-torque, over-temperature, or over-current. The invention can be configured to monitor and respond to driver demand for four-wheel drive, two-wheel drive, and neutral tow. The disconnect device can comprise a disconnect actuator and joint attached to an axle disconnect. The axle disconnect can be electric or vacuum powered and positioned as a center disconnect or a wheel-end disconnect. The invention can be configured for conventional or limited slip axles.

Abstract: A hybrid drive system for a four-wheel drive system arranged to supply motive power to a transfer case from an internal combustion engine and/or an electric motor/generator. The transfer case is comprised of a planetary gearset having a first input driven by the motor/generator, a second input driven by the engine, and an output directing drive torque to the front and rear drivelines. The output of the planetary gearset drives a rear output shaft connected to the rear driveline and further drives a front output shaft connected to the front driveline. The transfer case further includes a second planetary gearset having an input driven by the motor/generator and an output driving the first input of the first planetary gearset. This hybrid drive arrangement permits use of a modified transfer case in place of a conventional transfer case in a traditional four-wheel drive driveline.

Abstract: A vehicle capable of turning a vehicle body with a relatively small turning radius and with a good operability in a turning operation. One of front and rear pairs of left and right wheels, to which a running torque produced by a vehicle driving source is not transmitted, is arranged for rotation concerning respective axes perpendicular to the ground. For turning the vehicle body, the one pair of left and right wheels are fixed at angular positions along tangential directions of an arc which passes the axes perpendicular to the ground of the one pair of left and right wheels. At these angular positions, a rotating torque is applied to the one pair of left and right wheels to turn the vehicle body substantially about the center point of the rotating axle for running the vehicle of the other pair of left and right wheels.

Abstract: A power machine including a transmission, a chain case, a motor and a hydraulic cylinder having a rod end and a base end and a plurality of hose couplings. The hydraulic cylinder coupled to a chain case such that the base end and all of the hose couplings are mounted within an interior portion of the chain case and such that the rod end of the hydraulic cylinder extends outside the chain case.

Abstract: A method of electronic brake force distribution in a two-axle four-wheel vehicle 1 effects a compensation of the speed differences between left and right vehicle side during cornering. To this end, a compensation speed is calculated for the curve-inward rear wheel 6 and added to the individual wheel speed of the rear wheel 6 to be compared with a vehicle reference speed. The individual wheel reference speed of this wheel, which is this way increased in relation to the individual wheel speed of the curve-inward rear wheel 6, prevents a premature activation of electronic brake force distribution because the produced individual wheel reference speed is closer to the vehicle reference speed than the individual wheel speed. This permits better utilizing brake force during cornering.

Abstract: An electric vehicle has two driving operation blocks with the same appearance are provided at both the front and rear ends of the body of the vehicle symmetrically around a point. The vehicle employs a collapsible driver′s seat. The vehicle has four driving and steering block. Each of the driving and steering block contains a wheel, a drive motor that rotates the wheel and steering gear motor that changes the direction of the wheel. The service floor of the vehicle does not have a wall and floor height is extremely low for easy access by a senior citizen or a person in a wheel chair.

Abstract: A hybrid drive system for a four-wheel drive system arranged to supply motive power to a transfer case from an internal combustion engine and/or an electric motor/generator. The transfer case is comprised of a planetary gearset having a first input driven by the motor/generator, a second input driven by the engine, and an output directing drive torque to the front and rear drivelines. The output of the planetary gearset drives a rear output shaft connected to the rear driveline and further drives a front output shaft connected to the front driveline. The transfer case further includes a second planetary gearset having an input driven by the motor/generator and an output driving the first input of the first planetary gearset. This hybrid drive arrangement permits use of a modified transfer case in place of a conventional transfer case in a traditional four-wheel drive driveline.

Abstract: A wheel type traveling and operating vehicle can reduce a height and a length in a longitudinal direction of a lower traveling body on which an engine is mounted, and can secure an improved operability and a traveling property. Accordingly, this vehicle is provided with a tire wheel traveling apparatus having axles (2, 3) in front and rear portions of a chassis frame body (1), an engine (11) providing a traveling power, and a transmission (12). The transmission is provided with a transmission portion arranged so that an input shaft (21) and an output shaft (23) transverse an axis (X-X) in a vehicle longitudinal direction in parallel to each other at forward and backward positions of the axis, and a bevel gear output portion (15) outputting a tire wheel driving power to the output shaft toward a direction of the axis.

Abstract: A disconnect mechanism for a drive unit (e.g., a wheel drive unit or an integrated drive unit) including a wheel carrying hub rotatably attached to a frame and a reciprocal input shaft operable to selectively connect a power source (e.g., a hydraulic motor) to a transmission connected to the hub. The disconnect mechanism is connected to the input shaft and is adapted to be selectively hand actuated. The disconnect mechanism includes a hand rotatable knob rotatably connected to a cover removably attached to and enclosing an end of the hub. The knob includes an annular helical surface (i.e., ramp surface) operable to axially displace the input shaft from a first position in which the input shaft is drivingly connected to the transmission and, thus, the hub to a second position in which the input shaft is disconnected from the transmission. A disconnect pin is positioned intermediate the disconnect knob and the input shaft and rides on the ramp surface of the disconnect knob.

Abstract: A transmission structure of a gearbox of an electrically actuated car includes two front wheels, two rear wheels, and two gearboxes, wherein one gearbox is mounted between the two front wheels, and the other gearbox is mounted between the rear wheels. The transmission structure also comprises a motor mounted between the two gearboxes. The motor has a power shaft having two distal ends each connected to a differential gear of each of the two gearboxes by means of a coupler, so as to form a four-wheel transmission mechanism.