Magnetic Induction Patents (Class 191/10)
-
Publication number: 20110315496Abstract: A contactless power transfer system for a mobile asset is presented. The system includes a primary loop disposed adjacent to a location that is coupled to a power source. A secondary receiving coil is disposed on the mobile asset and coupled to a traction motor for receiving power from the primary loop. The power transfer system further includes a field-focusing element that can focus a magnetic field from the primary loop onto the secondary receiving coil, the field-focusing element having a non-linear current distribution.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 24, 2010Publication date: December 29, 2011Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANYInventors: Adnan Kutubuddin Bohori, Ajith Kuttannair Kumar, Bret Dwayne Worden, James William Bray, Somakumar Ramachandrapanicker, Arvind Kumar Tiwari, Suma Memana Narayana Bhat
-
Publication number: 20110259694Abstract: An electric vehicle can run with power supplied from a power supply facility on the outside of the vehicle. A resonator for power reception is disposed under a metallic under body and configured to receive power from a resonator for power transmission in the power supply facility by resonating with the resonator through an electromagnetic field. A power storage device stores power received by the resonator for power reception. A power cable is laid under the under body along with the resonator for power reception, and configured to transmit power received by the resonator for power reception.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 12, 2009Publication date: October 27, 2011Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventor: Naohide Matsumura
-
Publication number: 20110253495Abstract: The invention is a system for transferring electric energy to a vehicle. The system includes an electric conductor arrangement for producing an alternating electromagnetic field and for thereby transferring the energy to the vehicle. The electric conductor arrangement includes at least one alternating current line, wherein each alternating current line carries one phase of an alternating electric current. The conductor arrangement includes a plurality of consecutive segments, wherein the segments extend along the path of travel of the vehicle. Each segment includes one section of each of the at least one alternating current line. The system also includes a direct current supply line for supplying electric energy to the segments. Each segment is connected to the supply line via at least one inverter which inverts a direct current carried by the supply line to an alternating current carried by the at least one alternating current line.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 17, 2009Publication date: October 20, 2011Applicant: BOMBARDIER TRANSPORTATION GMBHInventors: Kurt Vollenwyder, Jürgen Meins
-
Patent number: 8027755Abstract: From among a plurality of interconnected segments of a travel route of a transportation vehicle, an operator manually assigns a plurality of segments that form a path for the transportation vehicle to actually travel, such assignment is received, a travel instruction is generated in accordance with the plurality of assigned segments, and the transportation vehicle is instructed to travel in accordance with the travel instruction.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2009Date of Patent: September 27, 2011Assignee: Murata Machinery, Ltd.Inventor: Hidekazu Ohta
-
Publication number: 20110220445Abstract: A fully automatic traffic system includes insertable individual system vehicles that are used for transporting persons and goods, are provided with their own drive system, their own steering mechanism, and at least one power take-off and guiding apparatus, and move along a route which encompasses a solid ground forming the running surfaces for the wheels of the individual vehicles, and a power supply and guiding system over which the wheels of the vehicles can roll. At least one power take-off and guiding apparatus of the individual vehicles can be deployed into and retracted from the effective range of the power supply and guiding system of the route. The ground that supports the running surfaces for the wheels of the individual vehicles consists of roadway elements which can be separately arranged and/or laid.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 12, 2011Publication date: September 15, 2011Inventor: Peter Hasenfuss
-
Publication number: 20110220446Abstract: The invention relates to a device for inductively transmitting electrical energy to or from a mobile object (3) that is located on a roadway or rail, is at a standstill or in motion, and comprises a load and/or an energy store, comprising a floor inductor (5) that is associated with the roadway (1) and comprises a plurality of first induction coils (4) that are arranged along the roadway (1) or rail, are connected to a current source, and have a magnetically conductive iron core (6) for generating a magnetic field directed toward the moving object (3). An inductive wheel (8) attached to the moving object (3) comprises a stationary second induction coil (9) having a magnetically conductive iron core (10) and magnetically conductive wheel disks (11, 12) that are directed toward the roadway (1) or rail and connected to said magnetically conductive iron core on both sides.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 9, 2009Publication date: September 15, 2011Applicant: Stemmann-Technik GmbHInventor: Burkhard Hübner
-
Publication number: 20110198176Abstract: The invention relates to a system for transferring electric energy to a track bound vehicle, in particular to a light rail vehicle, such as a tram, wherein the system comprises an electric conductor arrangement (12) for producing an electromagnetic field and for thereby transferring the energy to the vehicle, the electric conductor arrangement (12) comprises at least one line (1, 2, 3) for carrying one phase of an alternating voltage or current, the line (1, 2, 3) extends along the track, the line (1, 2, 3) is arranged in such a manner that it produces—at each point in time while the alternating electric current is flowing through the line (1, 2, 3)—a row of successive magnetic poles (at sections 5) of an electromagnetic field, wherein the successive magnetic poles have alternating magnetic polarities, the row of successive magnetic poles extends in the travel direction of the vehicle which is defined by the track.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 2, 2009Publication date: August 18, 2011Applicant: BOMBARDIER TRANSPORTATION GMBHInventors: Juergen Meins, Carsten Struve
-
Publication number: 20110184601Abstract: A system and method for operating a vehicle in multiple zones is disclosed. In one aspect, there is a vehicle for transporting a load comprising an energy storage device configured to receive and store energy originating from at least one of a power source and a linear motor and a motor configured to move the vehicle using energy delivered from the power source when energy from the power source is available for delivery, and further configured to move the vehicle using the energy stored in the energy storage device when the energy from the power source is unavailable for delivery, wherein the power source is located external to the vehicle and is stationary when the vehicle is in motion.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 31, 2011Publication date: July 28, 2011Inventor: Sandor Wayne Shapery
-
Publication number: 20110163542Abstract: A high power wireless resonant energy transfer system transfers energy across an airgap.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 11, 2011Publication date: July 7, 2011Inventor: Laszlo Farkas
-
Publication number: 20110114401Abstract: To stabilize the transmission characteristic of an electric power supply system for vehicle even when the vehicle being charged and powered by it shifts horizontally, a power transmitting antenna, which is arranged on the ground, and a power receiving antenna, which is arranged at the bottom of the vehicle, set up resonances at substantially the same resonant frequency and produce magnetic coupling between them. When the power receiving antenna enters the zone in which the power transmitting antenna is located, power is transmitted to the vehicle. By setting H, which is the distance between the power transmitting and receiving antennas that face each other, so that H satisfies 0.11×W1?H?0.26×W1 with respect to the width W1 of the power transmitting antenna, the transmission characteristic can be stabilized.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 11, 2010Publication date: May 19, 2011Inventor: Hiroshi KANNO
-
Publication number: 20110114400Abstract: To stabilize the transmission characteristic of an electric power supply system for vehicle even when the vehicle being charged and powered by it shifts horizontally, a power transmitting antenna, which is arranged on the ground, and a power receiving antenna, which is arranged at the bottom of the vehicle, set up resonances at substantially the same resonant frequency and produce magnetic resonant coupling between them. When the power receiving antenna enters the zone in which the power transmitting antenna is located, power is transmitted to the vehicle. By setting the width of the power receiving antenna as measured in the vehicle's width direction to be larger than the length of the power receiving antenna as measured in the vehicle's traveling direction, the transmission characteristic can be stabilized.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 11, 2010Publication date: May 19, 2011Inventor: Hiroshi KANNO
-
Patent number: 7906935Abstract: Disclosed is a method and apparatus for charging electrically powered devices. In accordance with the invention, the device is powered by two storage devices. One storage device is capable of receiving a substantial charge very rapidly while the other storage device requires a longer time to receive a charge. The advantage is that the powered device can be used almost instantly and continually while at the same time rebuilding electrical charge.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2008Date of Patent: March 15, 2011Inventor: Waldemar F. Kissel, Jr.
-
Patent number: 7891931Abstract: Lateral guidance transportation systems include at least one route, on which at least one transportation vehicle is guided as the main vehicle. The main vehicle is energized by a primary circuit having a contact wire arranged along the route, or contactlessly. The main vehicle includes a lifting platform that is drivable by a drive, and on which there is at least one satellite vehicle. The satellite vehicle also includes a drive for automatically moving along an additional route, and which is arranged for transporting goods. The additional route includes a satellite route section for the positioning and parking of the satellite vehicle. The satellite route section is truly alignable, by positioning the main vehicle on satellite routes arranged transversely to the route, on shelves. Satellite route sections and satellite routes include primary conductors energized contactlessly by the main vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2004Date of Patent: February 22, 2011Assignee: Sew-Eurodrive GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Leobald Podbielski, Udo Laubenstein, Josef Schmidt, Bernhard Schneider
-
Publication number: 20110031047Abstract: An exemplary embodiment provides electrical energy to an electric vehicle travelling along a roadway enabled with electric energy transmitting modules. The electric energy is transmitted via a magnetic field for use by the electric vehicle via electric energy receiving modules in the wheels of the electric vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 30, 2010Publication date: February 10, 2011Applicant: TARR ENERGY GROUP, LLCInventor: Walter L. Tarr
-
Patent number: 7868585Abstract: A wireless charging device which locates a portable electronic device for efficient charging while providing a secure, stable and usable platform for the portable electronic device.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2007Date of Patent: January 11, 2011Assignee: Visteon Global Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Melvin J. Sarnowsky, Robert B. Bucciarelli, Royce D. Channey
-
Patent number: 7854304Abstract: Method of producing a plasma conductor in air with the aid of a femtosecond high-frequency pulsing and high-repetition rate laser. The plasma is used for transmitting a current between an electric or catenary wire supplying a vehicle such as a train and an electric contact, for example a pantograph arm disposed on a moving vehicle and connected to a power distribution system thereof. The plasma is in contact with the electric or catenary wire and with an electric contact.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2005Date of Patent: December 21, 2010Assignees: Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (C.N.R.S.), Ecole PolytechniqueInventors: Andre Mysyrowicz, Michel Pellet
-
Patent number: 7832534Abstract: A device for transmitting electrical energy from the track (2, 3) to the vehicle (1) of a magnetic leviation railway is described. According to the invention a contactless operating device is provided in that the track (2, 3) has mounted thereon at least one primary line (44) connected to a voltage source (46) and being designed as an emitting coil and in that the vehicle (1) has mounted thereon at least one pick-up coil (47) applied to its magnet back box (15).Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2005Date of Patent: November 16, 2010Assignee: ThyssenKrupp Transrapid GmbHInventors: Wolfgang Hahn, Peter Becker, Luitpold Miller
-
Patent number: 7733676Abstract: A non-contact power supply system is provided in which current phases of induction lines are matched. According to the output current of a power supply unit (21) and the power consumption of induction lines (19), a lead time corresponding to a phase difference between the output currents of the induction lines is determined. A signal for driving transistors (52) is advanced ahead of a drive synchronization signal (?) according to the lead time.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2005Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Daifuku Co., Ltd.Inventors: Makoto Nunoya, Kazutoshi Takeda
-
Patent number: 7714536Abstract: A method and apparatus for charging energy supplies in an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). The present invention relates to a UAV that comprises an inductive charging device that utilizes the electromagnetic field emanated by overhead/utility power lines, to charge the energy supplies. The UAV also includes a releasable latch for holding power lines to allow for the perching of the UAV on power lines during the charging process. The latch and the inductive charging device may be provided on a single device, a battery augmentation trap (BAT). The UAV may be perched in an upright orientation to allow for takeoff after the charging of energy supplies on the power line.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2007Date of Patent: May 11, 2010Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventors: Eric J. Silberg, Judah H. Milgram
-
Publication number: 20100072815Abstract: A reception unit is provided including a receiver coil for the contactless transfer of electric energy. The receiver coil includes a plurality of flux guiding elements (16a, 16b) that are made of a highly permeable material and that are designed to concentrate the field lines. The flux guiding elements (16a, 16b) form a continuous molded part that is embodied in a base body (18) and that is combined with the base body to form a component that can be completely prefabricated. The molded part is produced by casting and the base body (18) is used as a casting mold.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 4, 2007Publication date: March 25, 2010Inventors: Wolfgang Hahn, Qinghua Zheng, Andreas Diekmann
-
Patent number: 7635053Abstract: A transport system is provided, comprising an underfloor high frequency alternate current primary conductor for providing an electromagnetic field extending along the primary conductor for inductive energy transfer. The transport system includes at least one electric transport vehicle comprising two individually controllable and individually drivable drive wheels. At least one pick-up unit with a secondary conductor for the inductive energy transfer is pivotable relative to the vehicle and comprises at least one idle roller adapted for being continuously contacted with the travel surface. The electric transport vehicle includes a sensor unit adapted for sensing continuously a floor track signal. A control unit is provided to control the two drive wheels in response to signals of the sensor unit for minimizing a deviation of the vehicle from the floor track signal.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2005Date of Patent: December 22, 2009Assignee: RofaInventor: Wolfgang Kozsar
-
Publication number: 20090057084Abstract: An energy recovery system including a device that produces a magnetic field adapted for mounting to a vehicle and a stationary conductor adapted for placing in or adjacent the path of the vehicle wherein the magnetic field induces current to flow through the conductor when the vehicle moves past the conductor. The vehicle may be an automobile, a truck, a train, or other type of vehicle. When used in conjunction with a train, the energy recovery system may be designed to recover energy from non-locomotive train cars in addition to, or in lieu of, the train locomotive. Kinetic energy that would otherwise be lost to heat energy through the application of brakes to the non-locomotive cars can thereby be recovered and re-used.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 9, 2008Publication date: March 5, 2009Applicant: ENERGY RECOVERY TECHNOLOGY, LLCInventor: Imad Mahawili
-
Publication number: 20090032350Abstract: A method and system of using one or more railcar linear electric generators to decelerate a vehicle such as a train consist. In one embodiment, the one of more electric generators are configured to capture deceleration energy and supply the energy to one or more power grid connections. The one of more railcar electric generators may also operate as motors to assist propelling a train consist. Optional energy storage may also be included.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 1, 2008Publication date: February 5, 2009Inventor: Sandor Wayne Shapery
-
Publication number: 20090013899Abstract: A transport system, including a rail system and carriages movably disposed thereon, the rails being encompassed by a primary conductor system to which at least one secondary coil, included by the carriage, is inductively coupled for the contactless transfer of electrical energy and/or information.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 13, 2007Publication date: January 15, 2009Inventors: Konstantin Wolf, Josef Schmidt, Gunter Becker, Leobald Podbielski
-
Publication number: 20080236973Abstract: A device for transmitting electrical energy from the track (2, 3) to the vehicle (1) of a magnetic leviation railway is described. According to the invention a contactless operating device is provided in that the track (2, 3) has mounted thereon at least one primary line (44) connected to a voltage source (46) and being designed as an emitting coil and in that the vehicle (1) has mounted thereon at least one pick-up coil (47) applied to its magnet back box (15).Type: ApplicationFiled: March 9, 2005Publication date: October 2, 2008Applicant: THYSSENKRUPP TRANSRAPID GMBHInventors: Wolfgang Hahn, Peter Becker, Luitpold Miller
-
Publication number: 20080179154Abstract: An energy recovery system including a device that produces a magnetic field adapted for mounting to a vehicle and a stationary conductor adapted for placing in or adjacent the path of the vehicle wherein the magnetic field induces current to flow through the conductor when the vehicle moves past the conductor.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 31, 2008Publication date: July 31, 2008Applicant: ENERGY RECOVERY TECHNOLOGY, LLCInventor: Imad Mahawili
-
Publication number: 20080170350Abstract: A feeding line is connected to an AC source so that electricity is picked up from the feeding line in a non-contact manner by a pickup coil provided on the side of a moving body. A compensating current from a compensating power source in phase or in reverse phase with respect to a current flowing in the feeding line is caused to flow in a compensating line arranged in the vicinity of the feeding line. A magnetic field from the compensating current reduces a leakage magnetic field from the feeding line.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 11, 2008Publication date: July 17, 2008Applicant: MURATA MACHINERY, LTD.Inventor: Homare KOUMOTO
-
Patent number: 7398946Abstract: A rechargeable battery energized unmanned aerial vehicle having surveillance capability and an ability to clandestinely collect propulsion and other energy needs from a conveniently located and possibly enemy owned energy transmission line. Energy collection is by way of a parked vehicle engagement with the transmission line in a current flow dependent, magnetic field determined, rather than shunt, voltage dependent, conductor coupling. Surveillance during both a parked or docked condition and during aerial vehicle movement is contemplated.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2005Date of Patent: July 15, 2008Assignee: United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Air ForceInventor: Patrick T. Marshall
-
Publication number: 20080135378Abstract: The invention relates to a sorting and distributing system and to a method for transmitting power and data in a sorting and distributing system, comprised of carriages (1), which are coupled to one other to form a train (2) and which can be displaced along running rails, and comprising primary parts (5), which are arranged in a stationary manner along the running rails, serve to provide power to the carriages (1), and which can be inductively connected to secondary parts (6) provided on the carriages (1), and comprising devices for wirelessly transmitting control data for the train (2). The aim of the invention is, with the use of simple and retrofittable means, to attain a high speed and acceleration of the carriages with a low power consumption and to render a rapid and reliable data transfer possible. To this end, the invention provides that the primary parts (5) are placed at intervals along the running rails, and the secondary parts (6) can be moved past the primary parts (5) while in inductive range.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 1, 2005Publication date: June 12, 2008Inventor: Paolo Mignano
-
Publication number: 20080121481Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a non-contact electricity feeding facility that feeds electricity to a rail guided vehicle in a non-contact manner, the facility enabling a temperature abnormality in a feeding cable to be reliably detected using a simple configuration. The present invention provides a non contact electricity feeding facility 7 that feeds electricity to a rail guided vehicle 5 in a non-contact manner, the facility including a thermostat 43 mounted at an end of the feeding cable 9 at a connection between a feeding cable 9 and a bus bar 12 for junction or termination which is required for feeding electricity, the thermostat 43 operating at least a predetermined temperature, and a temperature abnormality detecting circuit 44 that detects that the thermostat 43 has operated.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 16, 2007Publication date: May 29, 2008Applicant: MURATA MACHINERY, LTD.Inventors: Hiroaki MITSUHASHI, Hiroyuki HASHIMOTO
-
Patent number: 7336156Abstract: A communication apparatus installed in the trains and that in a complex station building, a station or a maintenance factory communication through feeders, trolley wires or third rails can communicate each other. The present invention can realize a low cost vehicle-facility intra communication system that provides various information services available in the train.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2004Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.Inventors: Setsuo Arita, Yuji Ichinose, Daisuke Shinma, Naoyuki Yamada, Hiroyuki Akiyama, Shigenobu Yanai
-
Patent number: 7318564Abstract: A surveillance aircraft recharging system based on energy collection by magnetic induction from the current flowing in a randomly selected alternating current transmission line conductor. The charging energy originates in the magnetic field surrounding the current carrying conductor and is obtained by way of a laminated magnetic circuit surrounding the current carrying conductor and disposable in both an open and transmission line receiving state and a closed and energy collecting state upon command. Latching of the magnetic structure into a condition providing physical suspension stability for the host aircraft as well as an efficient magnetic circuit are provided. Latching of the magnetic structure includes a docking aircraft kinetic energy storage sequence assisting in aircraft deceleration and also providing saved energy useful during an undocking sequence.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2005Date of Patent: January 15, 2008Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Air ForceInventor: Patrick T. Marshall
-
Patent number: 7232020Abstract: In an electric telpher system with non-contact power transmission between a feeder (4) placed at a spacing along a slide rail (1) for mobile transfer units (12) and an inductive current collector on the transfer unit, a data transmission loop (7) is arranged at a defined distance from the feeder for non-contact data transmission between a central control station (18) and the transfer units in such a way that its parallel conductors are located exactly within a field line of the feeder. The data transmission loop is direct-coupled with the central control station via a transmission station (10). Each transfer unit is equipped with a communication module (6) with transmit and receive coils on ferrite cores for inductive data transmission to ensure that these units can receive all information exchanged via the data transmission loop. The data transmitted by means of induction consists in sinusoidal signal sequences at two different fixed frequencies in the medium frequency range that serve as digital signals.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 2002Date of Patent: June 19, 2007Assignee: LJU Industrieelektronik GmbHInventor: Norbert Futschek
-
Patent number: 7137494Abstract: A device with which electrical energy can be transferred from a power cable running along a stationary rail of a transport system to a moving element that can be driven along the rail. Each moving element has for this purpose a transfer head which works inductively together with the power cable. The power cable is attached with the aid of carrier profile which extends substantially along the entire length of the rail and is fixed in a releasable manner to the rail, which element has at least one a trough-like holder open to the side in which the power cable is laid. The power cable is thus relatively easily and accurately laid, avoiding hanging loops of cable which could be damaged by abrasion by the passing transfer heads of the moving elements.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 2004Date of Patent: November 21, 2006Assignee: Eisenmann Maschinenbau GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Werner Swoboda, Juergen Roeckle
-
Patent number: 7084527Abstract: In an electric telpher or similar conveyor system comprising movable transfer units, power is transmitted to consumers having differing input power requirements in that the slide rail (1) is also used as return conductor of the feeder (4) in the primary circuit and in that the current collector (6) of the secondary circuit comprises two separate and differently rated windings (N01, N02) to provide two separate supply voltages (U01, U02) with different load capacities that are geared to the differing power needs of the consumers via electronic collector circuits (AE1, AE2).Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 2001Date of Patent: August 1, 2006Assignee: LJU Industrieelektronik GmbHInventor: Norbert Futschek
-
Patent number: 6978873Abstract: An induction line cover includes a cylinder-shaped section into which an induction line can be fitted, plate-shaped sections continuously connected outwardly from a pair of ends created by cutting a slit longitudinally in the cylinder-shaped section at a circumferential position of the cylinder-shaped section, and engaging sections formed adjacent outer faces of the plate-shaped sections and being engageable toward the movement track. A cover joining member for connecting the induction line cover has a receiving section which can receive the engaging sections, and is configured to be accommodated within the extent of the outer diameter of the cylinder-shaped section when the engaging sections are engaged toward the movement track. By this, connection between induction line covers can be performed firmly with stability using the cover joining member, and sufficient clearance can be secured between the cover joining member and a pickup coil.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2004Date of Patent: December 27, 2005Assignee: Daifuku Co., Ltd.Inventor: Yasushi Ishioka
-
Patent number: 6951268Abstract: A system is proposed for transmitting energy and/or data between a vehicle body and a removable part, a first core half having a pin and a pin ring which extend into a second core half to thus improve an inductive coupling. The first and second core halves are elements of an inductive transformer, and in each case have windings to transmit the energy and data, respectively. So that the pin does not protrude when a movable part is removed from a vehicle, in a further development, a ring is provided with bore holes and an annular spring which ensure that all primary-side transformer parts terminate flush with the vehicle floor. The improved inductive coupling makes it possible for the core halves to be made predominantly of an iron material.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2002Date of Patent: October 4, 2005Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventor: Hans Guettler
-
Patent number: 6848547Abstract: A non-contact electric power supply system for a rail-guided vehicle includes a main line having fixed rails for guiding the vehicle. A movable rail body is provided for changing the course of the vehicle moving along the main line. A first high frequency power supply apparatus supplies electric power to the main line along an electric feed line. A second high frequency power supply apparatus supplies electric power to the movable rail body along an electric feed line. Portions of the electric feed line on the movable rail body may be fixed in place.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 1998Date of Patent: February 1, 2005Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toyoda Jidoshokki SeisakushoInventors: Yasuharu Odachi, Masaki Takasan, Katsuyuki Morita
-
Patent number: 6705441Abstract: A series resonant inductive pickup has a bi-directional solid state switch in series with an inductor and a capacitor is controlled by switch control elements capable of causing the switching elements to repetitively be in either an open or a closed state, so that by varying the closed: open ratio of the switch the time-averaged amount of power picked up by the power pickup can be controlled. Switch is controlled by output of a voltage comparing circuit. A reference voltage source provides a basis for comparison of some fraction of a supply voltage in order to cause the switch to operate. The magnitude of capacitance in relation to the current drawn by the load determines the repetition rate of ON or OFF commands to the switch. If the current drawn by the load tends to zero, the proportion of time during which the switch is open will tend to 100%.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2002Date of Patent: March 16, 2004Assignee: Auckland Uniservices LimitedInventors: John Talbot Boys, Oskar Heino Stielau
-
Patent number: 6651566Abstract: A transportation system includes a guideway lane and a power cable assembly extending along the guideway lane. The system further includes a vehicle configured to travel on the guideway lane. The vehicle includes a self-centering transformer that is movable along the cable assembly and configured to cooperate with the cable assembly to transfer power to the vehicle. In addition, the transformer includes a magnet array that creates a magnetic field for centering the transformer-with respect to the cable assembly as the transformer moves along the cable assembly.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2002Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: Ford Motor CompanyInventors: Craig Hammann Stephan, John Michael Miller, Lloyd Craig Davis, Richard David Anderson
-
Publication number: 20030173172Abstract: A method is provided for controlling operation of a vehicle on a guideway system, wherein the vehicle includes a first element of a linear induction motor and an alternate power source, and the guideway system has an acceleration section including a second element of the linear induction motor, and a computer control system. The method includes utilizing the second element in cooperation with the first element so as to accelerate the vehicle on the acceleration section of the guideway system, and providing speed instructions to the vehicle using the computer control system so as to cause the vehicle to use the alternate power source to maintain a desired cruising speed on a main section of the guideway system.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 13, 2002Publication date: September 18, 2003Applicant: Ford Motor CompanyInventors: Craig Hammann Stephan, John Michael Miller, Lloyd Craig Davis, Richard David Anderson
-
Publication number: 20030173173Abstract: A transportation system includes a guideway lane and a power cable assembly extending along the guideway lane. The system further includes a vehicle configured to travel on the guideway lane. The vehicle includes a self-centering transformer that is movable along the cable assembly and configured to cooperate with the cable assembly to transfer power to the vehicle. In addition, the transformer includes a magnet array that creates a magnetic field for centering the transformer with respect to the cable assembly as the transformer moves along the cable assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 13, 2002Publication date: September 18, 2003Applicant: Ford Motor CompanyInventors: Craig Hammann Stephan, John Michael Miller, Lloyd Craig Davis, Richard David Anderson
-
Publication number: 20030173174Abstract: A guideway system for conveying vehicles includes a first guideway lane and a plurality of control cells. Each cell includes a particular portion of the first guideway lane and a cell controller for monitoring and controlling traffic flow on the first guideway lane portion within the respective cell. Furthermore, the cell controllers are in communication with each other so as to share information with each other.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 13, 2002Publication date: September 18, 2003Applicant: Ford Motor CompanyInventors: Craig Hammann Stephan, John Michael Miller, Lloyd Craig Davis, Richard David Anderson
-
Patent number: 6615740Abstract: An electrically powered vehicle transportation system utilizes a guideway with parallel enclosed rails. Each enclosed rail has an electrical bus bar for supplying power to vehicles on the guideway. The guideway will accommodate dual-mode vehicles that are capable of usage on conventional streets as well as on the guideway. The guideway also accommodates conventional vehicles and ferries that operate only on the guideway. The dual-mode vehicle has a body with axles that are extensible. The axles move from a retracted position, with the wheels recessed within the wheel wells, to an extended position. In the extended position, the wheels locate within the enclosed rails. Conventional vehicles and freight are carried on ferries that move along the guideways.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 2002Date of Patent: September 9, 2003Inventor: J. Kirston Henderson
-
Publication number: 20030146062Abstract: In an electric telpher or similar conveyor system comprising movable transfer units, power is transmitted to consumers having differing input power requirements in that the slide rail (1) is also used as return conductor of the feeder (4) in the primary circuit and in that the current collector (6) of the secondary circuit comprises two separate and differently rated windings (N01, N02) to provide two separate supply voltages (U01, U02) with different load capacities that are geared to the differing power needs of the consumers via electronic collector circuits (AE1, AE2).Type: ApplicationFiled: January 21, 2003Publication date: August 7, 2003Inventor: Norbert Futschek
-
Patent number: 6543591Abstract: An automated guided vehicle system can make a conveyor vehicle 13 traveled from a feeder line 5 disposed along a track 12 by supplying the power in a physically non-contact state, wherein the feeder lines are disposed in the both sides of a part of the track, at least one pair of the pick-up units 9, 9 is disposed so as to supply the power from any one of the feeder lines laid in both sides of the track in the conveyor vehicle, and the power is supplied from the pick-up unit whose the power to supply is bigger to the load 19 in the place that the feeder lines are disposed in the both sides of the track. According to the above system, the power can be supplied continuously even in the diverging part, etc.Type: GrantFiled: January 2, 2002Date of Patent: April 8, 2003Assignee: Murata Kikai Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Motohiko Kuzuya
-
Patent number: 6515878Abstract: A method and apparatus for supplying contactless power. Electrical power is transferred from a power source to a load through a primary energy converter that can be connected to the power source, through a primary inductive loop connected to the primary energy converter and a secondary pickup coil magnetically coupled to the primary inductive loop, and then to a secondary energy converter. The power factor for the transfer of electrical energy is one. Multiple loads can receive power from the power source and, where the loads are located in zones, collisions between the loads can be prevented.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 1998Date of Patent: February 4, 2003Inventors: Jürgen G. Meins, John D. Sinsley
-
Publication number: 20020121417Abstract: A system is proposed for transmitting energy and/or data between a vehicle body and a removable part, a first core half having a pin and a pin ring which extend into a second core half to thus improve an inductive coupling. The first and second core halves are elements of an inductive transformer, and in each case have windings to transmit the energy and data, respectively. So that the pin does not protrude when a movable part is removed from a vehicle, in a further development, a ring is provided with bore holes and an annular spring which ensure that all primary-side transformer parts terminate flush with the vehicle floor. The improved inductive coupling makes it possible for the core halves to be made predominantly of an iron material.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 6, 2002Publication date: September 5, 2002Inventor: Hans Guettler
-
Patent number: 6425468Abstract: The present invention provides a non-contact power supply apparatus which is suitable for three-dimensional running by improving an allowable degree in a relative displacement of a carrier vehicle and a guide rail in the case where the carrier vehicle is running along the guide rail while receiving a drive power. The non-contact power supply apparatus has a pickup portion which is constructed in a manner that a pair of plate portions made of a magnetic material and having an area wider than a bonding area to an opening end are arranged in parallel, and are bonded or formed integrally with opposite surfaces of both opening ends of a pickup core having a C-letter or U-letter shape.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2000Date of Patent: July 30, 2002Assignee: Tsubakimoto Chain Co.Inventors: Kenzo Yamamoto, Satoshi Takashige, Haruyoshi Kitayoshi
-
Patent number: 6407470Abstract: An electric power-transmission device having a primary conductor arrangement comprising at least two parallel primary conductors (PL) and at least one secondary winding arrangement that is electromagnetically coupled to the primary conductor arrangement, is mechanically separate from the primary conductor arrangement and can be moved in its longitudinal direction. The primary conductor arrangement and the secondary winding arrangement each comprise flat conductors having a small thickness (dL) of a few millimeters and a large width side (bL). The width sides of the primary conductors are disposed adjacently in one plane, and the secondary winding arrangement has at least one secondary coil (SS) that is embodied as a disk winding whose conductor width sides lie in one plane extends parrallel to the plane of the primary conductor arrangement.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2000Date of Patent: June 18, 2002Assignee: DaimlerChrysler AGInventor: Anton Seelig