Endless Flexible Track Patents (Class 180/6.7)
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Patent number: 7798260Abstract: A track vehicle includes a cab operable to support an operator. Left and right motors each rotate an output shaft at a first speed, and a speed reduction system is operably coupled to each output shaft. Left and right drive shafts are driven by the speed reduction system at a second speed that is slower than the first speed. Left and right drive sprockets are mounted for rotation with the respective first and second drive shafts. Left and right track carriages support the cab and left and right tracks are mounted for rotation about the track carriages in response to rotation of the respective left and right drive shafts, such that the left and right tracks are driven by the left and right drive sprockets to move the track vehicle along a ground surface.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2007Date of Patent: September 21, 2010Assignee: Clark Equipment CompanyInventors: Larry E. Albright, Gary J. Homola, Maria C Homola, legal representative, Rodney Koch, Lance Tuhy, Thomas J. Roan
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Patent number: 7789253Abstract: A combination crane A is formed by connecting two crawler cranes 1L and 1R. Each crawler crane is provided with at least a lower propelling body 3 which can be propelled by crawlers 2, an upper revolving body 5 rotatably mounted on the lower propelling body 3 by a swing unit 4 provided between them, a boom 6 whose base section is tiltably supported on the upper revolving body, a tilting mechanism 10 that raises and lowers the boom and a hoist mechanism that hoists and lowers the lifting members 12 hung by a hoist rope 11 from the top of the boom. Both upper swing bodies of two cranes are connected together with a connecting beam 20. Swing motion is performed by driving the one crawler crane to move around the other crawler crane which is free to rotate and is locked against propulsion.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2008Date of Patent: September 7, 2010Assignee: Kobelco Cranes Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hirotsugu Sawai, Mamoru Uejima, Satoshi Mimura
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Patent number: 7784568Abstract: Apparatus for controlling a track on a tracked vehicle may comprise a drive system, a clutch, a brake, and a track control system to operate the clutch and the brake. A control signal generator operatively associated with the track control system produces control signals that vary at a first rate to cause the track control system to transition the clutch from an engaged state to a disengaged state and produces control signals that vary at a second rate to cause the track control system to transition the brake from an initial application state to a full application state, the second rate being less than the first rate.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 2008Date of Patent: August 31, 2010Assignee: Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold Inc.Inventors: John Petersen, Eric Poulson
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Patent number: 7762360Abstract: A method and system are described for calibrating speed controls for a vehicle having a pair of drive means on opposite sides of the vehicle driven by independent speed controls and where relative speed of the drive means is used to direct the vehicle. In one aspect, angular motion of the vehicle is detected using at least one of a gyroscopic angular sensor and a pair of accelerometers to determine a rate of yaw; a speed control output for controlling the relative speed is adjusted so that the rate of yaw is lower than a threshold when speed control inputs for controlling the relative speed are equal; and one or more speed control adjustment parameters are determined and stored for use during operation for controlling the relative speed of the drive means. A microcontroller may be used to receive sensor outputs (e.g. from the gyroscope and/or accelerometers) and speed control inputs and to determine the speed control adjustment.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2007Date of Patent: July 27, 2010Inventor: Fabio Saposnik
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Publication number: 20100170728Abstract: A steering system for tracked vehicles having two brake circuits which is activated after a failure of the primary steering mechanism. The steering system includes a steering switch (L) that can be controlled by a steering axle which, in the event of primary steering system failure, acts upon the brakes of the vehicle in such a manner that rotation of the steering axle results in a braking action upon a track on the inside of a curve.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 5, 2007Publication date: July 8, 2010Applicant: ZF Friedrichshafen AGInventors: Johannes Sorg, Bruno Walter, Notker Amann, Robert Januschevski
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Publication number: 20100139993Abstract: A lobed bushing is provided for a track assembly of a track-type machine. The track assembly includes a first chain and a second chain coupled together with a track pin. A bushing, defining a longitudinal axis, includes a central bore oriented along the longitudinal axis and extending from a first end of the bushing to a second end of the bushing for receiving the track pin. The bushing includes a first lobe positioned at a first location about the longitudinal axis and a second lobe positioned at a second location about the longitudinal axis that is less than about 180° from the first location. The first end of the bushing has a substantially cylindrical shape.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 3, 2009Publication date: June 10, 2010Applicant: Caterpillar Inc.Inventors: Jason L. Sebright, Mark S. Diekevers, Benoit Abello, Steven Williamson
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Patent number: 7690734Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for brake steering a tracked vehicle such as, for example, a military tank. More precisely, the present invention provides independent control of a left brake and a right brake to create a track speed differential and thereby turn the vehicle. The apparatus of the present invention preferably includes a controller, a plurality of circuit selector actuators operatively connected to the controller, and a plurality of brake apply actuators operatively connected to the controller. A plurality of valves are disposed in fluid communication with the plurality of circuit selector actuators. The left brake is in fluid communication with one of the plurality of brake apply actuators, and the right brake is in fluid communication with another of the plurality of brake apply actuators.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 2006Date of Patent: April 6, 2010Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.Inventor: Clifford H. Oehme
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Publication number: 20100065345Abstract: Apparatus for controlling a track on a tracked vehicle may comprise a drive system, a clutch, a brake, and a track control system to operate the clutch and the brake. A control signal generator operatively associated with the track control system produces control signals that vary at a first rate to cause the track control system to transition the clutch from an engaged state to a disengaged state and produces control signals that vary at a second rate to cause the track control system to transition the brake from an initial application state to a full application state, the second rate being less than the first rate.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 18, 2008Publication date: March 18, 2010Applicant: Autonomous Solutions, Inc.Inventors: John Petersen, Eric Poulson
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Publication number: 20100059297Abstract: A flexible, non-resilient strap of the tandem wheel suspension interconnects the vehicle frame and one of the rocker arms of an endless track vehicle, limiting the motion of the rocker arm in the direction of the terrain but permitting freedom of motion in an upward direction away from the terrain. The rocker arms share a support axle mounted to the vehicle frame, and each rocker arm is independently movable about the support axle. A shock-absorbing element, located in the vicinity of the strap, is preferably similarly attached between the frame and the same rocker arm to dampen the motion of the rocker arm in the direction of the terrain while permitting freedom of motion in an upward direction away from the terrain. In one embodiment, a small idler roller is positioned slightly above the endless track at a location between the two tandem wheel suspensions supporting the endless track.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 9, 2009Publication date: March 11, 2010Applicant: TORVEC, INC.Inventors: Steve Urbanik, Keith E. Gleasman
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Patent number: 7635036Abstract: A device for reversing the steering movement of a steering-wheel shaft of a vehicle, it being possible to switch the reversal process only at a standstill of the vehicle in a center position of the steering device.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2005Date of Patent: December 22, 2009Assignee: RENK AktiengesellschaftInventor: Max Witzenberger
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Publication number: 20090308667Abstract: When, according to the invention, a drive unit for trailers or caravans is arranged such that it comprises a chassis (2) with crawler sections (3), a coupling device (4) having first and second coupling parts (28, 29), said coupling parts (29) being arranged on the hitch triangle (30) behind the normal hitch coupling and behind the nose wheel, and the drive unit additionally comprises means for steering and maneuvering the unit, a good weight distribution is achieved between main wheel and drive unit, so that it is easy to control the placing of the trailer or of the caravan, without having to worry about the risk of colliding with the neighbour or damaging one's own vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 8, 2007Publication date: December 17, 2009Applicant: MOVER TECHNOLOGY APSInventor: Knud Erik Westerdaard
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Patent number: 7621354Abstract: A drive system for a tracked vehicle having an internal combustion engine with a crankshaft aligned transversely to a direction of travel includes a steering drive; a differential transmission having traction drive elements, steering drive elements, and a pair of drive outputs for a drive axle aligned parallel to the crankshaft; and a steering drive connection connecting the steering drive to the steering drive elements. A further drive element, which may be a change speed gearbox or an electric traction motor, is arranged in line with the internal combustion engine and transmits power to the traction drive elements.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2003Date of Patent: November 24, 2009Assignee: RENK AktiengesellschaftInventors: Max Witzenberger, Rolf Döbereiner
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Publication number: 20090260902Abstract: A suspension unit, for example for a track-laying vehicle, comprises an oil-filled cylinder within which a piston, connected to a piston rod, is provided. The cylinder 4 is oil-filled, and communicates with an upper region of a spring chamber, the lower region 46 of which contains gas under pressure. The piston rod has a hollow interior filled with gas under pressure. The piston is connected by a connecting rod to a secondary piston which is slidable within the piston rod. On rebound the piston rod and the piston move relatively to each other between a retracted end position and an extended end position. During this movement and the return movement, oil is transferred, by way of apertures between damping chambers which serve to damp the relative movement of the piston and the piston rod so avoiding shock loading at the end positions of the movement.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 10, 2007Publication date: October 22, 2009Applicant: Horstman Defence Systems LimitedInventors: Timothy J. Holman, Brian Stockford
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Patent number: 7575075Abstract: The present invention is an improved personal tracked vehicle consisting of a platform pivotally mounted on top of a housing, the platform having a right and left side and a central axis. The platform is pivotally movable between a first position wherein the right side of the platform is below the left side of the platform and a second position wherein the left side of the platform is below the right side of the platform. The platform has a forward portion, a rearward portion and middle portion between the two, the middle portion being arched upwardly. The vehicle further includes a pair of parallel right and left tracks mounted to the housing below the platform, the right track being coupled to a right track transmission and the left track being coupled to a left track transmission, the right and left track transmissions both being coupled to a motor for driving the transmissions.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2007Date of Patent: August 18, 2009Inventor: Ryan Fairhead
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Publication number: 20090183924Abstract: A tracked hydrovacuum vehicle combines a tracked vehicle and a hydrovacuum unit in a single machine with a single power source. The reduced weight and tracking of the modified machine permits operation of the device in boggy conditions. The compact size of the machine permits operation in congested areas.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 23, 2009Publication date: July 23, 2009Applicant: GEOMETRIC PIPELINE SOLUTIONS INC.Inventor: Larry D. TUTTLE
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Publication number: 20090166101Abstract: A skid steered all terrain vehicle (ATV), comprising two driving units for the wheels or tracks on both sides of the vehicle and a differential steering device with a differential gear, wherein the ATV is a light ATV (LATV) and wherein the differential steering device is designed to produce a defined differential speed of the two drive units of the vehicle related to the steering angle of the steering device regardless to the surface condition where the vehicle is driving, whereby an additional steering drive acts on the differential gear.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 27, 2007Publication date: July 2, 2009Inventors: Urs WENGER, Beat KOHLER, Hans-Rudolf JENNI
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Publication number: 20090124142Abstract: An amphibious vehicle capable of high speeds on the water has a buoyant hull with driven tracks on each side of the hull. The tracks are movable between an upper position and a lower position relative to the hull. The tracks propel the vehicle both for land travel and water travel. Water diverter vanes at the aft end of each track divert water being carried forward by the tracks. Water diverter vanes at the forward ends direct water carried on the upper runs in a downward and aft direction. A cavitation plate is located behind each of the tracks while waterborne and below the waterline of the hull. A tiltable transom flap is attached to the transom and extends rearward.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 8, 2008Publication date: May 14, 2009Applicant: Fast Track Amphibian LLCInventors: Kenneth G. Wernicke, Rodney K. Wernicke, Keith H. Wernicke, Timothy K. Wernicke
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Publication number: 20090000157Abstract: A system and process for controlling propulsion and steering of a track trencher excavation machine powered by an engine includes a multiple mode propulsion and steering control system that performs a plurality of functions depending on a selection of one of a plurality of operational modes. A controller generates a vehicle propulsion hydrostatic drive signal optionally using a track drive hydraulic pressure or a track drive speed as a variable for modifying the propulsion drive signal. The controller optionally uses a hydraulic attachment drive pressure as a variable for further modifying the propulsion drive signal.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 29, 2007Publication date: January 1, 2009Inventor: Ty Hartwick
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Publication number: 20090000156Abstract: A system and process for controlling propulsion and steering of a track trencher excavation machine powered by an engine includes a multiple mode propulsion and steering control system that performs a plurality of functions depending on a selection of one of a plurality of operational modes. A controller generates a vehicle propulsion hydrostatic drive signal using an engine speed to determine a load multiplier. The load multiplier being defined as a function of the engine speed and an operator adjustable load control setting.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 29, 2007Publication date: January 1, 2009Inventors: Ty Hartwick, Mark Cooper
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Publication number: 20080308324Abstract: A drive unit (10) for an inspection vehicle which can be used on ferromagnetic bases (19), especially in generators, which drive unit includes a motor-powered crawler track (18) and also magnetic devices for holding the drive unit (10) on the base (19). An improved insensitivity to uneven spots in the base is achieved by the crawler track (18), in the region where it bears upon the base (19), being guided via inner, spring-mounted running wheels (12), and by the magnetic devices being integrated in the running wheels (12).Type: ApplicationFiled: June 10, 2008Publication date: December 18, 2008Inventors: Roland Moser, Bernhard Mark, Reto Kaufmann, Josef Erni
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Patent number: 7434637Abstract: Working-machine steering apparatus includes an assist mechanism for reducing a force necessary for operating any one of left and right operating members. First and second cord members, connected to the left and right operating members, are wound on first and second pulleys in a U shape with given pre-slack. As a human operator operates any one of the left and right operating members, the corresponding left or right cord member is brought into close contact with the first or second pulley, so that rotation of a drive source is transmitted to the first or second pulley via a rotation shaft. The necessary operating force of the left and right operating members can be reduced using the rotation of the drive source via the assist mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2005Date of Patent: October 14, 2008Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Hiroshi Sueshige
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Patent number: 7326141Abstract: A transmission drive system (TDS) has two AC induction traction motors, each operatively coupled to two semi-independent coaxial traction shafts, and two AC induction steer motors coaxially mounted on a common steer axis parallel to the coaxial traction shafts. A steering gear assembly, preferably between the traction and steering motors, has a common steer input shaft operatively connected to the two AC induction steering motors. Two planetary gear sets have the two traction shafts being operatively connected with one of a two planet gear carriers, or two ring gears, respectively. The other of the planet gear carriers or the ring gears are operatively connected with each other. Two offset gears mounted to the steer input shaft and meshing with two sun gears, respectively, including a reversing idler gear interposed between one of the two offset gears and one of the two sun gears.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2006Date of Patent: February 5, 2008Assignee: BAE Systems Information and Electronic Systems Integration Inc.Inventors: Arthur P. Lyons, Bart Winter Mancini
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Patent number: 7267188Abstract: An electric vehicle has a control unit having a decelerating control function of decelerating an electric motor disposed on a side of a vehicle body corresponding to a turning direction of the electric vehicle, and an accelerating control function of outputting an accelerating control signal for performing acceleration control to accelerate the electric motor when operation of the electric vehicle is switched from a first traveling mode to a second traveling mode. When the electric motor has a speed not exceeding a predetermined reference speed, the accelerating control function performs the acceleration control such that a level of the accelerating control signal is increased abruptly for a temporary time from the switching of the operation of the electric vehicle from the first traveling mode to the second traveling mode.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2004Date of Patent: September 11, 2007Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Tsutomu Wakitani, Norikazu Shimizu, Toshiaki Kawakami
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Patent number: 7246670Abstract: A work vehicle with a hydrostatic steering system is disclosed which is capable of performing optimum control of the absorption torque of a hydraulic pump according to running load; capable of preferentially ensuring turning performance and implement speed when running load is relatively low; and capable of ensuring desired turning performance even when running load is relatively high. To this end, a bulldozer with a hydrostatic steering system, wherein the power of a hydraulic motor driven by pressure oil fed from a hydraulic pump operated by an engine is transmitted to right and left crawler tracks through a differential steering means composed of planetary gear trains etc., is designed to control the absorption torque of the hydraulic pump according to the speed ratio of a torque converter calculated by a speed ratio operation unit.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 2005Date of Patent: July 24, 2007Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.Inventors: Kazuhiko Hayashi, Mitsuaki Nakamura
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Patent number: 7131507Abstract: The invention relates to a tracked ATV which is fully supported, driven and steered by a pair of parallel endless tracks driven by means of an internal combustion engine. Steering means are arranged to control the differential speed between the tracks for steering the vehicle. A handlebar is pivotally mounted to a vehicle body in front of a driver seat and the steering means are arranged to be operated by rotation of the handlebar. According to another aspect of the invention the driver seat is a straddle-type seat and footrests are arranged on the body to the left and to the right of this seat, which footrests are situated vertically in between an upper run and a ground engaging lower run of the tracks.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2005Date of Patent: November 7, 2006Assignee: Wenko AG BurgdorfInventors: Urs Wenger, Beat Kohler, Hans-Rudolf Jenni
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Patent number: 7086490Abstract: A tracked vehicle has smooth driving and idler wheels (6, 7, 8, 9), which frictionally transmit the tractive force to tracks (3, 4), e.g. rubber tracks, and which are mounted on a frame (3) of the vehicle which carries at least one driving engine (11). To avoid the slipping of the tracks on the driving and idler wheels, both the two front idler wheels (6, 7) and the two rear idler wheels (8, 9) are respectively driven. The front wheels are hydraulically driven, while the rear wheels may be hydraulically or mechanically driven.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 2003Date of Patent: August 8, 2006Assignee: macmoter S.p.A.Inventor: Alois Johann Haringer
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Patent number: 7059434Abstract: A control system for a small work vehicle such as a compact track propelled loader has a control handle that is mounted onto a swinging support plate. The support plate swings about a vertical axis positioned forwardly of the control handle, and the control handle is mounted on the support plate about a horizontal axis. Linkages are provided between the control handle and the pivotal mounting about the upright axis to respective motor control levers for operating motors on opposite sides of the vehicle for steering and propelling the vehicle. Moving the control handle about the horizontal axis causes a drive selectively in forward and reverse direction, and moving the support plate and the control handle about the vertical axis provides differential movement for steering control.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2004Date of Patent: June 13, 2006Assignee: Clark Equipment CompanyInventors: Mark F. Bares, William A. Wright
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Patent number: 6988571Abstract: The purpose of the invention is to enable a crawler tractor to brake and stop certainly without applying a load to an engine and a driving mechanism, and without complicated operation. An operation link links a conic linkage (53) which links a steering wheel (7) with a main speed change lever (55) of the crawler tractor, and with an operation mechanism of a brake pedal (54). A neutral return mechanism for the operation link is provided. The operation link neutral return mechanism comprises a hook-like cam lever (61). When the brake pedal is depressed, the main speed change lever is moved to its neutral position before braking force occurs, and then, the brake is actuated. Accordingly, engine brake is used effectively, and the brake can be miniaturized.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2002Date of Patent: January 24, 2006Inventors: Eiichi Okamoto, Masakazu Komatsu, Yukio Kubota, Susumu Nochi, Susumu Akashima, Takashi Uno, Gaku Higashiguchi, Shinsuke Tani, Kazuo Yamamoto
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Patent number: 6913103Abstract: A hydraulically driven traveling vehicle comprising a pair of right and left driving axles (driving sprockets) differentially connected to each other by a differential mechanism, the input section of the differential mechanism having the output rotation of traveling HST 110 (110) transmitted thereto, both driving sprockets having mutually opposite two-flow output rotations separately transmitted thereto from a steering HST (120), thereby effecting traveling driving and turning, electromagnetic solenoids (61a, 61b, 62a, 62b) serving as output regulating devices for the traveling HST and the steering HST being provided so that the manipulated variables and directions of a speed change lever and a steering operation tool are converted into electric signals, on the basis of which electric signals the output current values of the electromagnetic solenoids are controlled, causing the respective output rotary speeds of the HSTs to correspond to the output current values.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2000Date of Patent: July 5, 2005Assignee: Yanmar Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yuji Kitasaka, Takeshi Hasebe, Katsunori Katou, Toshiyuki Miwa
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Patent number: 6902027Abstract: A piping structure of a crawler driving hydraulic motor able to reduce a reduction in strength of a vehicle body frame and shorten the exposure length of a hydraulic piping in the exterior of the vehicle body frame, and reduce a damage opportunity due to an external obstacle, etc. Therefore, the hydraulic piping is connected from a hydraulic pump arranged within the vehicle body frame to left-hand and right-hand crawler driving hydraulic motors respectively attached to one-end sides of left-hand and right-hand crawler track frames arranged on left-hand and right-hand outsides of the vehicle body frame. The hydraulic piping extends through a frame rear wall constituting the vehicle body frame, and is taken out to the exterior of the vehicle body frame, and is connected to the left-hand and right-hand crawler driving hydraulic motors.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2002Date of Patent: June 7, 2005Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.Inventors: Kazuo Soga, Eiji Ishibashi
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Patent number: 6837318Abstract: A rescue and exploration apparatus that has a first continuous track rotatably supported within a first frame and a second continuous track rotatably supported within a second frame. The first and second continuous tracks are driven by at least one drive motor. The first and second frames are pivotally connected about a pivot point. A steering mechanism articulates the first and second frames about the pivot point. A remote control is operatively connected to the rescue and exploration apparatus, and a power source is electronically connected to the remote control the drive motors, and the steering mechanism. A tether may be used for rescue type uses by pulling the rescue and exploration apparatus back to safety with a rescue victim. A joystick and microcontroller on the remote control controls the speed and direction of the drive motors and steering mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2003Date of Patent: January 4, 2005Inventors: Hanna Craig, Heather Craig
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Publication number: 20040226760Abstract: An articulated vehicle is made up of two independently moveable vehicle bodies, for instance tracked vehicle bodies. The first vehicle body has an engine and the second one has a motor/generator. An articulation device connects them to allow the first vehicle body to drive the second vehicle body or vice versa or even for them to act together. A drive transmission that can be used in the vehicle allows power to be input from two shafts or for one of the shafts to be an additional power output. An articulation device that can be used in the vehicle allows quick alignment and/or coupling and decoupling of the two bodies.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 3, 2003Publication date: November 18, 2004Inventors: Heng Fong Loh, Jun Shu, Shi Jin Tu, Choon Mong Tay, Dominic Phoon Yong Soon, Yew Chuen Poon, Hin Chee Leong
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Patent number: 6805218Abstract: A motorized vehicle has wheels mounted on a vehicle body for undergoing rotation to cause the motorized vehicle to undergo travelling, electric motors for selectively undergoing forward and reverse rotation to rotationally drive respective ones of the wheels, brakes for applying brake forces to respective ones of the wheels, handlebars extending from the vehicle body, and turn control levers mounted on the handlebars to undergo angular movement within a range of preselected angular positions. The turn control levers are connected to respective ones of the brakes and respective ones of the electric motors so that the electric motors undergo rotation simultaneously in opposite directions in accordance with the preselected angular positions of the turn control levers to turn the motorized vehicle while the motorized does not undergo travelling.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2001Date of Patent: October 19, 2004Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Tsutomu Wakitani, Tsutomu Inui, Kenji Kuroiwa, Jitsumi Hanafusa
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Patent number: 6712187Abstract: A clutch adjustment method and apparatus thereof are described which are capable of properly compensating for performance variations or performance deterioration due to variations or wear in various parts.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2001Date of Patent: March 30, 2004Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.Inventors: Kazuyuki Suzuki, Shigeru Yamamoto, Tomohiro Nakagawa
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Patent number: 6691806Abstract: The invention concerns a drive unit for a tracked vehicle with a first and a second electric generator (6, 8) and with a first and a second internal combustion engine (10, 12), such that one generator (6, 8) can be driven respectively by one combustion engine (10, 12), and with electric drive motors (14, 16, 18, 20) for driving a right-hand and a left-hand drive track (4, 2). According to the invention it is proposed that the elements of the drive unit are linked in such manner that the right-hand drive track (4) is associated with first and second right-hand electric drive motors (14, 16), the left-hand drive track (2) is associated with first and second left-hand electric drive motors (18, 20), the two first drive motors (14, 18) being fed by the first generator (6) and the two second drive motors (16, 20) being fed by the second generator (8). Due to the wiring of the energy paths according to the invention, very great operational security is achieved even when the drive unit is partially damaged.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AGInventors: Werner Wolfgang, Hubert Hund, Thomas Rösch, Bruno Walter
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Patent number: 6637529Abstract: A steering control system for a tracklaying vehicle, which ensures smooth turning performance according to various modes such as ascent travel, descent travel, and travel in a low speed range and which provides improved controllability. According to various operation states such as an ascent travel state, descent travel state, high-load drive state, low engine rotational speed travel state, and high-speed travel state, the clutch/brake modulation characteristic (i.e., static or dynamic characteristic) is varied to select the optimum characteristic.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2001Date of Patent: October 28, 2003Assignee: Komatsu, Ltd.Inventors: Kazuyuki Suzuki, Shigeru Yamamoto, Tomohiro Nakagawa, Masahiro Ikeda
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Patent number: 6604590Abstract: A battery powered, all-terrain vehicle for the physically challenged comprises a battery powered transportation unit that allows a handicapped person to travel on otherwise inaccessible terrain.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2001Date of Patent: August 12, 2003Inventor: Robert Foulk, Jr.
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Publication number: 20030136591Abstract: A hydraulically driven traveling vehicle comprising a pair of right and left driving axles (driving sprockets) differentially connected to each other by a differential mechanism, the input section of the differential mechanism having the output rotation of traveling HST 110 (110) transmitted thereto, both driving sprockets having mutually opposite two-flow output rotations separately transmitted thereto from a steering HST (120), thereby effecting traveling driving and turning, electromagnetic solenoids (61a, 61b, 62a, 62b) serving as output regulating means for the traveling HST and the steering HST being provided so that the manipulated variables and directions of a speed change lever and a steering operation tool are converted into electric signals, on the basis of which electric signals the output current values of the electromagnetic solenoids are controlled, causing the respective output rotary speeds of the HSTs to correspond to the output current values, wherein the respective output current values ofType: ApplicationFiled: October 22, 2002Publication date: July 24, 2003Inventors: Yuji Kitasaka, Takeshi Hasebe, Katsunori Katou, Toshiyuki Miwa
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Patent number: 6527070Abstract: A brake-actuating steering and braking control system for a tracked vehicle is provided with a braking control subsystem, a steering control subsystem, and right and left side brake-actuating subsystems. The braking control subsystem includes a brake pedal and is connected to brake mechanisms of each brake-actuating subsystem. A user may depress the brake pedal to apply a braking force to right and left side track assemblies of the tracked vehicle via the brake mechanisms to thereby slow or stop the tracked vehicle. The steering control subsystem includes a steering wheel and is connected to each of the brake mechanisms. The user may rotationally displace the steering wheel, which applies a braking force to the track assembly corresponding to the direction of rotational displacement of the steering wheel via the corresponding brake mechanism to thereby turn the tracked vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2001Date of Patent: March 4, 2003Assignee: PDSCO., Inc.Inventor: Robert G Ryan
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Patent number: 6523636Abstract: A motion control system for controlling the motion of a crawler having a left and right track. The system comprises a pivotally mounted controller; a steering control system hydraulically communicable with a pressurized fluid supply, a brake of each of a left and right track of a crawler and a clutch of each of a left and right track of a crawler, a direction control system hydraulically communicable with a pressurized fluid supply, a forward and a reverse transmission signal input, a steering speed controlling system for controlling the speed of a left track and a right track, and a transmission gear controlling system. The steering speed controlling system includes at least one selector. The transmission gear controlling system includes at least one transmission gear selector. The steering control system is positioned so that pivoting the controller in a first series of planes operates the steering control system.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2001Date of Patent: February 25, 2003Assignee: Probir Chatterjea & Associates, Inc.Inventor: Probir Chatterjea
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Patent number: 6484828Abstract: A mobile cultural machine including right and left traction members, a transmission, and a main speed change device operable to transmit, at any speed ratio, a driving force from an engine through the transmission to the traction members so that they are driven at any traveling speed. A steerage and a steering devise operate cause the steerage to differentiate the traveling speeds between traction members. The traveling speeds are reduced in response to the extent to which the steering device is operated, so that a machine running straight may smoothly be controlled to enter a spinning turn at the end of a row.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2002Date of Patent: November 26, 2002Assignee: Yanmar Agricultural Equipment Co., Ltd.Inventors: Shigemi Hidaka, Daigo Yokoyama
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Publication number: 20020169536Abstract: In many applications, it is desirable to have work machines automatically maintain a desired speed and heading. Provided is an electronic control connected with left and right hydraulic motor assemblies that drive left and right ground engaging propulsion mechanisms, left and right speed sensors, and on operator input.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 9, 2001Publication date: November 14, 2002Inventors: Timothy A. Feucht, Timothy M. Gutzwiller
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Patent number: 6474426Abstract: A steering method and steering system which enable a minimum turn radius more than the discharge capacities of a hydraulic motor and a hydraulic pump and which positively prevent the unstable traveling and turning behavior of a vehicle when the vehicle makes a pivot turn. The vehicle is provided with a pair of brakes for right and left output shafts and designed to transmit the driving force of the hydraulic motor to the output shafts through planetary gear mechanisms. During a pivot turn of the vehicle, an operation of the brake of either one of the right and left output shafts and a transmission of a driving force from the hydraulic motor to a planetary gear mechanism are simultaneously carried out for a specified period of time and thereafter, the transmission of the driving force from the hydraulic motor to the planetary gear mechanism is interrupted.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2001Date of Patent: November 5, 2002Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.Inventors: Shigeru Yamamoto, Toshikazu Okada, Hisao Asada, Tomohiro Nakagawa, Ikuo Kita
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Patent number: 6435289Abstract: The aim is to improve operability in vehicles such as skid steer loaders and to reduce the burden on the operator. It is made easy to switch between a first operation pattern wherewith only one operation apparatus of two operation apparatuses is used in driving two actuators, and a second operation pattern wherewith the two actuators are driven using both of the two operation apparatuses. It is made possible to hold operation positions, and to release held positions, whether with an operation lever apparatus that is capable of operation in only one directional component or with an operation lever apparatus that is capable of operation in two directional components in the forward and backward direction and in the left and right direction. When a change to a first combination is designated by a pattern switching lever, the first combination (first operation pattern) is switched to by switching means.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2000Date of Patent: August 20, 2002Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.Inventors: Shuuji Hori, Naoki Ishizaki, Yasuhiro Sato, Masayoshi Mototani
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Publication number: 20020096374Abstract: A brake-actuating steering and braking control system for a tracked vehicle is provided with a braking control subsystem, a steering control subsystem, and right and left side brake-actuating subsystems. The braking control subsystem includes a brake pedal and is connected to brake mechanisms of each brake-actuating subsystem. A user may depress the brake pedal to apply a braking force to right and left side track assemblies of the tracked vehicle via the brake mechanisms to thereby slow or stop the tracked vehicle. The steering control subsystem includes a steering wheel and is connected to each of the brake mechanisms. The user may rotationally displace the steering wheel, which applies a braking force to the track assembly corresponding to the direction of rotational displacement of the steering wheel via the corresponding brake mechanism to thereby turn the tracked vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 23, 2001Publication date: July 25, 2002Inventor: Robert G. Ryan
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Publication number: 20020079144Abstract: A steering control system for a tracklaying vehicle, which ensures smooth turning performance according to various modes such as ascent travel, descent travel, and travel in a low speed range and which provides improved controllability. According to various operation states such as an ascent travel state, descent travel state, high-load drive state, low engine rotational speed travel state, and high-speed travel state, the clutch/brake modulation characteristic (i.e., static or dynamic characteristic) is varied to select the optimum characteristic.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 21, 2001Publication date: June 27, 2002Inventors: Kazuyuki Suzuki, Shigeru Yamamoto, Tomohiro Nakagawa, Masahiro Ikeda
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Patent number: 6408960Abstract: A mobile cultural machine including right and left traction members, a transmission, and a main speed change device operable to transmit, at any speed ratio, a driving force from an engine through the transmission to the traction members so that they are driven at any traveling speed. A steerage and a steering device operate to cause the steerage to differentiate the traveling speeds between traction members. The traveling speeds are reduced in response to the extent to which the steering device is operated, so that a machine running straight may smoothly be controlled to enter a spinning turn at the end of a row.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 2000Date of Patent: June 25, 2002Assignee: Yanmar Agricultural Equipment Co., Ltd.Inventors: Shigehiro Hidaka, Daigo Yokoyama
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Publication number: 20020070056Abstract: A steering traction control apparatus for a track laying work machine includes first and second speed sensors that produce a slip signal responsive to the difference in rotational velocity of first and second axles. A controller receives the slip signal and responsively supplies a steering output signal in response to the magnitude of the slip signal.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 7, 2000Publication date: June 13, 2002Inventor: Arlyn P. Wilcox
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Publication number: 20020023786Abstract: With an object of providing a frame structure of a crawler type construction machine vehicle facilitating a degree of freedom of reforming in accordance with a variation of vehicle kind, capable of setting a vehicle body gravitational center position to an optimum portion by enabling to install an upper vehicle frame at an arbitrary position and capable of strengthening total rigidity by an integrated structure, there is provided a frame structure of a crawler type construction machine vehicle in a crawler travelling type having crawler reduction gears built with hydraulic motors at track frames of a crawler travelling apparatus, having left and right track frames and front and rear cross beams for coupling the left and right track frames in a shape of a lattice and a vehicle body frame disposed between inner sides of the left and right track frames and coupled in a shape of a lattice above the front and rear cross beams and the left and right track frames, the front and rear cross beams and the vehicle bodyType: ApplicationFiled: August 10, 2001Publication date: February 28, 2002Inventor: Shinobu Kamikawa
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Patent number: RE38632Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for controlling the propulsion and steering of a machine. The machine includes a hydrostatic system that drives a pair of ground engaging traction devices. An electronic controller receives operator signals indicative of a desired travel speed and direction, and determines a desired rotational speed of the ground engaging traction devices. The electronic controller produces command signals indicative of the determined speeds to regulate the speed of the ground engaging traction devices to the desired speed.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 2000Date of Patent: October 19, 2004Assignee: Caterpillar Paving Products IncInventors: Keith R. Schmidt, Conrad G. Grembowicz, Alan L. Ferguson