Plural Engines Patents (Class 477/2)
  • Patent number: 11110908
    Abstract: A method of performing a mode transition in a hybrid vehicle includes: determining a transition from a first mode to a second mode; comparing a driver's required torque with a maximum torque of an electric motor, determining a compensation torque when the driver's required torque is greater than the maximum torque; and determining a first torque to be output from an engine and a second torque to be output from a hybrid starter generator, which is connected to the engine, in consideration of the compensation torque and a system efficiency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2021
    Assignees: HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY, KIA MOTORS CORPORATION
    Inventor: Young Jun Lee
  • Patent number: 10962106
    Abstract: The invention relates to a drive arrangement for a vehicle and a method for gear shifting in a vehicle. The drive arrangement (5) comprises at least a first drive axle (10, 20, 30) operatively connected to a first gear box (11) and a first propulsion unit (12). The drive arrangement (5) further comprises a second gear box (21) and a second propulsion unit (22) operatively connected to the first drive axle (10) or to an optional second drive axle (20, 30). The drive arrangement (5) further comprises at least one electronic control unit (ECU) adapted to govern gear transmission of the first and the second gear boxes (11, 21). The electronic control unit (ECU) is configured to automatically select between shifting gear on the first and the second gear boxes (11, 21) simultaneously, or sequentially. The drive arrangement and the method provides for a very versatile drive arrangement and gear synchronization providing comfort for the driver and the passengers as well as improved vehicle dynamics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2021
    Assignee: VOLVO TRUCK CORPORATION
    Inventors: Mattias Åsbogård, Jonas Jerrelind, Erik Lauri
  • Patent number: 10940748
    Abstract: A hybrid transmission for use with a vehicle having an engine has an electric-only mode where the engine is off and a hybrid mode where the engine is on. The hybrid transmission includes an engine connection member configured for connection with the engine, a motor/generator unit configured to selectively operate as a motor, a transmission gearing arrangement, and a transmission input member connected with the transmission gearing arrangement. A torque transfer device is controllable to transfer torque from the motor to the transmission input member upstream in power flow from the transmission gearing arrangement, and a starter gear set includes a planetary gear set positioned in power flow between the engine connection member and the motor. The starter gear set is selectively engageable with the transmission input member and the engine connection member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2021
    Assignee: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Madhusudan Raghavan, Neeraj S. Shidore
  • Patent number: 10821961
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an engine torque control method of a mild hybrid electric vehicle including an engine as a power source, the mild hybrid electric vehicle further includes a mild hybrid starter and generator (MHSG) which starts the engine or operates as a generator by an engine torque and a controller which controls the change of a fuel injection mode among a MPI engine mode using a low pressure injector which injects the fuel to an intake port of the engine, a GDI engine mode using a high pressure injector which injects a fuel to a combustion chamber of the engine, and a hybrid MPI and GDI engine mode using both the low pressure injector and the high pressure injector, and the engine torque control method includes: determining whether a fuel injection mode is a MPI engine mode, by the controller, measuring a maintaining period when the MPI engine mode is maintained by a timer when the fuel injection mode is the MPI engine mode, determining whether the fuel injection mode is changed from the M
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2020
    Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corporation
    Inventor: YoungMin Kim
  • Patent number: 10457372
    Abstract: A propulsion device for a ship capable of preventing idling of a propeller without any limitation on the type of clutch. The propulsion device includes: a forward and reverse switching clutch for transmitting the driving power from an input shaft to a forward gear or a reverse gear; a forward one-way clutch, disposed between the input shaft and the forward gear, for connecting the forward gear and the input shaft when the forward gear is rotated at a higher speed than that of the input shaft; and a reverse one-way clutch, disposed between the input shaft and the reverse gear, for connecting the reverse gear and the input shaft when the reverse gear is rotated at a higher speed than that of the input shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2019
    Assignee: YANMAR CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Yuji Hashimoto
  • Patent number: 10435013
    Abstract: A hybrid vehicle drive system includes: an engine; a rotary machine; a gear type engagement device; and a controller configured to: control a vehicle to travel in a first mode in which a reaction force of the engine is received by a torque of the rotary machine, and in a second mode in which the reaction force of the engine is received by the engagement device. The controller is configured to perform a first control of receiving the reaction force of the engine by the torque of the rotary machine, increasing a magnitude of the torque of the rotary machine to be equal to or greater than an upper limit of an estimated torque range of the engine, and then decreasing the magnitude of the torque of the rotary machine is performed at a time the engagement device is disengaged from the second mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2019
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Hiroto Hashimoto, Yuji Iwase, Hiroaki Ebuchi, Hidekazu Nagai, Shotaro Kato
  • Patent number: 10173516
    Abstract: A method for controlling operating modes of a hybrid powertrain mechanism including a first epicyclic train having first and second sun gears and a planetary gear couplable to these sun gears; a second epicyclic train having third and fourth sun gears and a planetary gear couplable to these sun gears; a first electric machine having one end coupled to the second sun gear; a second electric machine having one end coupled to the fourth sun gear; a first clutch having one end coupled to another end of the first electric machine; a first brake having one end coupled to another end of the first clutch and another end coupled to the third sun gear; and an engine coupled to the first sun gear. Various driving modes are provided by changing the states of the first clutch and the first brake and the operating modes of the first and second electric machines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2019
    Assignee: INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY RESEARCH INSTITUTE
    Inventors: Jui-Tang Tseng, Yun-Jui Chung, Ching-Huei Wu, Sheng-Feng Tsai
  • Patent number: 9950606
    Abstract: The start system related to the present invention is for an internal combustion engine of a hybrid vehicle. The hybrid vehicle is configured to use at least one of a differential mechanism and a transmission gear mechanism to temporarily change an engine speed in starting of the internal combustion engine. The start system includes an electronic control unit. The electronic control unit is configured to determine a duration for which the engine speed needs to be changed in starting of the internal combustion engine. The electronic control unit is configured to determine a degree of change in the engine speed in starting of the internal combustion engine. The electronic control unit is configured to determine whether the engine speed needs to be changed by changing the gear position of the transmission gear mechanism based on the degree and the duration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2018
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Tatsuya Imamura, Atsushi Tabata, Yoshihito Kanno, Hiroki Morita, Masaya Yamamoto, Shunya Kato
  • Patent number: 9869353
    Abstract: A vehicle clutch hydraulic system for a vehicle is provided with a mechanical oil pump, an electric oil pump, a forward clutch and a control valve unit. In the vehicle clutch hydraulic system, a main pump oil passage fluidly connects the mechanical oil pump to the control valve unit. A sub-pump oil passage fluidly connects the electric oil pump to a forward clutch oil passage into which an oil passage outlet opens at an inside location closer to a clutch rotational axis than a clutch oil chamber of the forward clutch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2018
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takashi Kuwahara, Shigeru Ishii
  • Patent number: 9827989
    Abstract: A method of optimizing fuel economy and reduced noise and vibration levels in a vehicle includes one or more of the following steps: evaluating an engine speed and a speed of the vehicle, determining if the engine speed and the speed of the vehicle produces a noise level that causes a potential customer complaint, monitoring the noise level in the vehicle, calculating the engine operating condition that causes the noise level, determining if the noise level is above a threshold, adjusting an engine torque or a slip condition of a torque converter for optimal vehicle fuel economy if the noise level is at or below the threshold, and, if the noise level is above the threshold, adjusting the engine torque or the slip condition of the torque converter such that the noise level is at or below the threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2017
    Assignee: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Brad A. Saxman, Scott M. Reilly, Quentin D. Guzek
  • Patent number: 9716460
    Abstract: Motor drive control apparatus and methods are presented for speed reversal control for drives used with output filters and transformers using a high or maximal drive current command to facilitate dissipation of regenerative energy seen in this system during speed reversal with open loop control to reverse the spin direction of a driven motor while quickly transitioning through zero speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2017
    Assignee: Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas Nondahl, Jingbo Liu, Semyon Royak, Peter B. Schmidt, Jingya Dai, Ehsan Al-nabi
  • Patent number: 9470158
    Abstract: An vehicle with defined power on demand including a control system configured to provide to an operator a plurality of selectable features each have selectable options. The defined power on demand utilizes unrealized engine power which is limited by an engine control system for reasons of fuel savings and cost effectiveness. The selectable features include power take off (PTO), mechanical front wheel drive (MFD), front hitch, and rear hitch. Selectable options include a plurality of defined amounts of power delivered by a vehicle engine over a period of time with respect to a selected feature. The defined amount of power is greater than the power at which the engine typically operates as limited by the engine control system. The greater power is provided over a period of time to complete each of the selectable features.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2016
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventor: Vinesh Y. Deshmukh
  • Patent number: 9382867
    Abstract: Provided is an abnormality determination device of a vehicle including an engine and a first motor that is configured to output a torque to an output shaft of the engine, the abnormality determination device determining an output abnormality of dropping output of the engine in the vehicle. The abnormality determination device has an abnormality determination unit that determines that an output abnormality of the engine has occurred when an actual torque that is estimated, based on a torque of the first motor, as a torque actually output from the engine falls below a lower limit of an allowable range for a target torque to be output from the engine, and when an amount of increase in a rotational speed of the engine is smaller than a threshold value for misdetermination suppression, which is a threshold value that is larger as the target torque is higher.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2016
    Assignees: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA, DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Daigo Ando, Kengo Hamada
  • Patent number: 9242638
    Abstract: A first shaft has one end coupled to an engine. A damper has a spring coupled the other end of the first shaft. A second shaft has one end coupled to the spring. A third shaft rotates in correspondence to a final output shaft. A fourth shaft has one end coupled to a first rotary electric machine. A power split mechanism is provided among the second shaft, the third shaft and the fourth shaft and transfers torque among the second shaft, the third shaft and the fourth shaft. A control unit calculates a torque correction value for the rotary electric machine based on information indicating torsion angle of the damper and corrects the torque of the rotary electric machine based on a calculated torque correction value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Masakazu Yamamoto, Yusuke Fujitsu, Hiroaki Ono, Hikaru Shinohara
  • Patent number: 9216727
    Abstract: A method for operating a multi-mode powertrain system includes executing a selection scheme to evaluate operating the powertrain system in a plurality of candidate powertrain states including a one-motor electric vehicle (EV) range responsive to an output torque request. A respective minimum cost for operating the powertrain system in each of the candidate powertrain states including the one-motor EV range is determined. A preferred powertrain state is selected as one of the candidate powertrain states including the one-motor EV range that is associated with a minimum of the respective minimum costs. The powertrain system is controlled in the preferred powertrain state responsive to the output torque request.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2015
    Assignee: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Anthony H. Heap, Kee Yong Kim
  • Patent number: 9108526
    Abstract: A hybrid vehicle includes a power storage device, an engine, a power generation apparatus, an input apparatus, and an ECU. The power generation apparatus is configured to generate charging power of the power storage device by using output of the engine. The input apparatus is configured to request, by a user input, an increase in a power storage amount of the power storage device. The ECU is configured to: (a) control charging of the power storage device by the power generation apparatus and accelerate the charging of the power storage device, when the increase in the power storage amount is requested, and (b) suppress charging of the power storage device at the time when a travel load is small in comparison with charging of the power storage device at the time when the travel load is large, when the increase in the power storage amount is requested.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2015
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Kazuma Aoki, Koji Hokoi, Hiroki Endo
  • Patent number: 9020677
    Abstract: A control apparatus for a vehicle including a second clutch capable of switching between input and output shafts connecting state in which a motor-generation is connected. The control apparatus drives the wheels by the motor-generation so a torque transmitted to the wheels does not fluctuate in case the gear shift is executed to the transmission when is in the output shaft connecting state of the second clutch, and synchronizes the input and output shafts at the gear shift by the motor-generation in case the gear shift is executed to the transmission when the second clutch state is in the input shaft connecting state. The second clutch state is switched to the output shaft connecting state when a drive power to the vehicle is equal or less than a value. The second clutch state is switched to the input shaft connecting state when the drive power is greater than the value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignees: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki Kaisha, Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Takaaki Tanaka, Shinya Harada, Hiroshi Toyoda
  • Publication number: 20150039172
    Abstract: A hybrid drive vehicle control method for a hybrid drive vehicle is provided. The hybrid drive vehicle includes a prime mover, drive wheels, a hybrid mechanism having an energy storage device, and an electrical controller. In accordance with the method, a prime mover reference command corresponding to a torque output by the prime mover is generated, the reference command generated using prime mover torque-based feedback control in combination with prime mover residual torque compensation. Further, a hybrid mechanism reference command corresponding to a torque output by the hybrid mechanism and applied to the prime mover is generated, the hybrid mechanism reference command generated using feedforward compensation. A hybrid mechanism feedback signal corresponding to a torque applied by the hybrid mechanism to the prime mover is also generated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2014
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Inventors: Guobiao Song, Yisheng Zhang
  • Patent number: 8844663
    Abstract: A twin engine improves fuel efficiency in a low-load section and generates sufficient output in a high-load section by selecting a specific bank or operating all of the banks in accordance with necessity of required load. The twin engine may include a plurality of engine banks that independently operates in a unit of a cylinder block equipped with a plurality of cylinders, transmissions that are provided at the same number of engine banks and disposed between output ends of engine banks, a power controller that selectively collects the power output from the output ends of transmissions and transmits the power to driving wheels, and a driving controller that controls the operations of the engine banks and the power controller, such that the engine banks are selectively or simultaneously operated in accordance with traveling conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventors: Wonjin Jo, Hyunwook Shin
  • Patent number: 8762024
    Abstract: A system for automatically managing engine control modes of a multi-engine aircraft is disclosed. The system (1) can comprise means (5, 7, 8, 9, 10) for automatically switching all the controlling units (2) of the engines of the aircraft to an alternative controlling mode, as soon as one of such controlling units (2) is brought to such an alternative controlling mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Airbus Operations (SAS)
    Inventor: Brice Fernandez
  • Patent number: 8731755
    Abstract: A drive device for a hybrid vehicle, which has a first driven axle and a second driven axle, including: a first motor/generator unit, which is connected to the first driven axle; an internal combustion engine unit, which is connected in a rotationally fixed fashion to a differential/transmission unit which is connected to the rear axle; a second motor/generator unit, which is connected in a rotationally fixed fashion to the differential/transmission unit, parallel to the internal combustion engine unit; a clutch unit, which is designed to disconnect and connect a force flux between the differential/transmission unit and the second driven axle; and a control unit, which actuates the clutch unit, the internal combustion engine unit, the first motor/generator unit and the second motor/generator unit as a function of predefined operating states.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Thomas Rauner
  • Publication number: 20140087916
    Abstract: A hydraulic motor/pump regenerator system for recovering energy from the moving vehicle having high efficiency and precise control, thereby allowing the maximum amount of energy to be recovered and reused, is described. Three, fixed-displacement pump/motors are used to enable the system to recover and reapply energy at efficiencies expected to be above 70% in most circumstances. The invention is not limited to the use of three fixed displacement hydraulic units since using more units may in some drive cycles further improve efficiency. By selecting an appropriate combination of pump/motor units for providing the driveshaft torque required by the driver, embodiments of the present invention generate high recovery efficiency at any speed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2013
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Inventors: Daniel S. Johnson, D. Jude Hueber, JR., Jonathan L. Reynolds
  • Publication number: 20130296098
    Abstract: Systems and methods for improving operation of a hybrid vehicle are presented. In one example, driveline operating modes may be adjusted in response to driving surface conditions. The approaches may improve vehicle drivability and reduce driveline degradation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2012
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Alex O'Connor Gibson, Gregory Michael Pietron, Yuji Fujii, James William Loch McCallum, Jeffrey Allen Doering
  • Patent number: 8500597
    Abstract: A multi-ratio rotorcraft drive system and a method of changing gear ratios thereof are disclosed. According to one embodiment, the multi-ratio rotorcraft drive system comprises a rotor system comprising one or more rotors and one or more engines. Each engine of the one or more engines is coupled to the rotor system through a multi-ratio transmission. The multi-ratio transmission comprises an output shaft coupled to the rotor system, an input shaft coupled to a respective engine of the one or more engines, a high speed clutch integrated into a high speed gear train, and a low speed clutch integrated into a low speed gear train. The high speed clutch and the low speed clutch are freewheeling clutches without a friction plate and are capable of disconnecting the output shaft and the input shaft in an overrunning condition when the output shaft spins faster than the input shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Bell Helicopter Textron Inc.
    Inventors: Ryan T. Ehinger, Carlos A. Fenny, Charles J. Kilmain, Eric A. Sinusas, Kevin Worrell
  • Publication number: 20130178330
    Abstract: A method for controlling a downstream clutch in a vehicle during an upstream torque disturbance includes slipping a downstream clutch by reducing the downstream clutch pressure, varying the downstream clutch pressure to a target threshold to control the slip of the downstream clutch, increasing the downstream clutch pressure to engage the downstream clutch. A vehicle includes a first prime mover, a second prime mover connected to the first prime mover using an upstream clutch, a transmission connected to the second prime mover using a downstream clutch, and a controller connected to the first and second prime movers and the upstream and downstream clutches. The controller is configured to (i) slip the downstream clutch by reducing the pressure, (ii) vary the downstream clutch pressure to a target threshold to control the slip, and (iii) increase the downstream clutch pressure to engage the clutch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2012
    Publication date: July 11, 2013
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Bernard D. Nefcy, Daniel Scott Colvin, Marvin Paul Kraska, Walter Joseph Ortmann, Brian Thomas Soo
  • Patent number: 8463481
    Abstract: A dual mode battery charging system and method of use are provided for use in an electric vehicle. The system utilizes at least two user selectable, charging operational modes. In a first operational mode, a state of charge circuit powers on the engine/generator system whenever the battery state of charge falls below a first level and until the battery state of charge reaches a second level, where the second level is higher than the first level. In a second operational mode, the state of charge circuit powers on the engine/generator system whenever the battery state of charge falls below a third level and until the battery state of charge reaches the second level, where the third level is lower than both the first and second levels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Tesla Motors, Inc.
    Inventors: Kurt Russell Kelty, Scott Ira Kohn, Weston Arthur Hermann, Jeffrey Brian Straubel
  • Patent number: 8463480
    Abstract: A dual mode battery charging system and method of use are provided for use in an electric vehicle. The system utilizes at least two user selectable, charging operational modes. In a first operational mode, a state of charge circuit cycles an engine/generator system on/off between a first level and a second level, where the second level is higher than the first level. In a second operational mode, the state of charge circuit cycles the engine/generator system on/off between a third level and a fourth level. After the fourth state of charge has been reached once, the state of charge circuit cycles the engine/generator system on/off between a fifth level and the fourth level, where the fifth level is higher than the third level and lower than the fourth level, and where the fourth level is lower than both the first and second levels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Tesla Motors, Inc.
    Inventors: Kurt Russell Kelty, Scott Ira Kohn, Weston Arthur Hermann, Jeffrey Brian Straubel
  • Patent number: 8449432
    Abstract: A multi-ratio rotorcraft drive system and a method of changing gear ratios thereof are disclosed. According to one embodiment, the multi-ratio rotorcraft drive system comprises a rotor system comprising one or more rotors and one or more engines. Each engine of the one or more engines is coupled to the rotor system through a multi-ratio transmission. The multi-ratio transmission comprises an output shaft coupled to the rotor system, an input shaft coupled to a respective engine of the one or more engines, a high speed clutch integrated into a high speed gear train, and a low speed clutch integrated into a low speed gear train. The high speed clutch and the low speed clutch are freewheeling clutches without a friction plate and are capable of disconnecting the output shaft and the input shaft in an overrunning condition when the output shaft spins faster than the input shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Bell Helicopter Textron Inc.
    Inventors: Ryan T Ehinger, Carlos A Fenny, Charles J Kilmain, Eric A Sinusas, Kevin Worrell
  • Patent number: 8428806
    Abstract: A dual mode battery charging system and method of use are provided for use in an electric vehicle. The system utilizes at least two user selectable, charging operational modes. In a first operational mode, a state of charge circuit powers on the engine/generator system whenever the battery state of charge falls below a first level and until the battery state of charge reaches a second level, where the second level is higher than the first level. In a second operational mode, the state of charge circuit powers on the engine/generator system whenever the battery state of charge falls below a third level and until the battery state of charge reaches a fourth level, where the fourth level is higher than the third level, and where both the third and fourth levels are lower than both the first and second levels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Tesla Motors, Inc.
    Inventors: Kurt Russell Kelty, Scott Ira Kohn, Weston Arthur Hermann, Jeffrey Brian Straubel
  • Publication number: 20130081889
    Abstract: A twin engine improves fuel efficiency in a low-load section and generates sufficient output in a high-load section by selecting a specific bank or operating all of the banks in accordance with necessity of required load. The twin engine may include a plurality of engine banks that independently operates in a unit of a cylinder block equipped with a plurality of cylinders, transmissions that are provided at the same number of engine banks and disposed between output ends of engine banks, a power controller that selectively collects the power output from the output ends of transmissions and transmits the power to driving wheels, and a driving controller that controls the operations of the engine banks and the power controller, such that the engine banks are selectively or simultaneously operated in accordance with traveling conditions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2011
    Publication date: April 4, 2013
    Applicant: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventors: Wonjin Jo, Hyunwook Shin
  • Patent number: 8364332
    Abstract: A method for controlling a low-voltage circuit of a vehicle having a generator includes monitoring operating conditions of the vehicle and determining whether surplus generator load is available. Available surplus generator load is captured and used to power the low-voltage circuit. The low-voltage circuit may include a low-voltage battery, which may be charged with the surplus generator load. The surplus generator load may be utilized for anti-sulfation of the low-voltage battery. The method is usable with both a hybrid vehicle and a conventional vehicle. The method may further include powering the low-voltage circuit with energy stored in the low-voltage battery as a result of charging the low-voltage battery with the surplus generator load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Brenton J. Bergkoetter, William L. Aldrich, III, Goro Tamai
  • Patent number: 8346421
    Abstract: A system and method is provided for initiating starting of an engine in a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) for a first time since a vehicle drive start request. Based on a predetermined fluid temperature and a powertrain fluid temperature from at least one of the powertrain elements in the HEV, it is determined whether energy from the engine is demanded. When the energy from the engine is demanded, the engine is started to provide energy for at least one of heating of a cabin compartment in the HEV and lubrication of a portion of powertrain elements in the HEV.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Paul S. Bryan, Christopher A. Lear, Mike P. Lindlbauer, Linda K. Ringlein, William David Treharne
  • Patent number: 8346419
    Abstract: One embodiment includes a method that includes monitoring a battery state of charge circuit that is coupled to a vehicle battery, calculating an averaged value of the state of charge over a time period, charging the vehicle battery by powering a generator with a fuel burning engine that powered on and powered off according to one of a first operational mode and a second operational mode, wherein in the first operational mode the engine is powered on when the battery state of charge drops below a first state of charge and continues until the averaged value of the state of charge increases to a first preprogrammed value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Tesla Motors, Inc.
    Inventors: Kurt Russell Kelty, Scott Ira Kohn, Weston Arthur Hermann, Jeffrey Brian Straubel
  • Patent number: 8323144
    Abstract: A vehicle hybrid drive supplies torque to an axle. The drive includes a first engine and a transmission which couples the first engine to the axle. The drive also includes a second engine, a flywheel driven by the second engine, an electric generator driven by the flywheel, a generator controller coupled between the generator and a motor controller, and an electric motor coupled to the motor controller. A gearbox is coupled between the electric motor and the axle. The vehicle drive may also include a further flywheel driven by the first engine, with the transmission being driven by the second flywheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Shi Bin, Andrew K. Rekow, Janet R. Willett
  • Patent number: 8296002
    Abstract: A control apparatus for controlling a vehicle, the vehicle provided with: a rotating electrical machine capable of inputting or outputting a torque with respect to an input shaft; and a transmission, which is disposed between the input shaft and an output shaft coupled with an axle, which is provided with a plurality of engaging apparatuses, which transmits a torque between the input shaft and the output shaft, and which can establish a plurality of gear stages having mutually different transmission gear ratios in accordance with engagement states of the plurality of engaging apparatuses, the transmission gear ratio being a ratio between a rotational speed of the input shaft and a rotational speed of the output shaft, the vehicle control apparatus provided with: a detecting device for detecting a braking operation amount of a driver; and an input shaft torque controlling device for controlling a torque of the input shaft such that in cases where the detected braking operation amount changes in a reducing dire
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Kenta Kumazaki, Tooru Matsubara, Atsushi Tabata
  • Publication number: 20120208670
    Abstract: A multi-ratio rotorcraft drive system and a method of changing gear ratios thereof are disclosed. According to one embodiment, the multi-ratio rotorcraft drive system comprises a rotor system comprising one or more rotors and one or more engines. Each engine of the one or more engines is coupled to the rotor system through a multi-ratio transmission. The multi-ratio transmission comprises an output shaft coupled to the rotor system, an input shaft coupled to a respective engine of the one or more engines, a high speed clutch integrated into a high speed gear train, and a low speed clutch integrated into a low speed gear train. The high speed clutch and the low speed clutch are freewheeling clutches without a friction plate and are capable of disconnecting the output shaft and the input shaft in an overrunning condition when the output shaft spins faster than the input shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2012
    Publication date: August 16, 2012
    Inventors: RYAN T. EHINGER, Carlos A. Fenny, Charles J. Kilmain, Eric A. Sinusas, Kevin Worrell
  • Publication number: 20120129648
    Abstract: A hybrid drivetrain for a motor vehicle includes an automated mechanical transmission (AMT) having an output shaft. The drivetrain includes an alternative energy source including a motor and an energy storage unit and two torque transfer arrangements. The first transfer arrangement is separate from engageable gear sets of the AMT for transferring torque from the output shaft to a motor when the energy storage unit is being charged and for transferring torque from the motor to the output shaft when the energy storage unit is being discharged. Additionally, an alternative energy source clutch for selectively coupling the first torque transfer arrangement to the output shaft is included. The second torque transfer arrangement is for transferring torque from the output shaft to a driven axle of the motor vehicle. At least one of the first and second torque transfer arrangements has different first and second torque transfer ratios.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2011
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Inventors: Robert L. Isaacs, Benjamin M. Hoxie
  • Patent number: 8082073
    Abstract: A loss reduction module of an electric vehicle control device has a function to limit a torque to not exceed a constant loss characteristic and issue a torque instruction if a requested torque exceeds the constant loss characteristic when an ecology switch is turned ON and low fuel consumption travel is instructed. More specifically, when a requested torque exceeding the constant loss characteristic is input, a torque limit is applied to a point on the constant loss characteristic. Accordingly, the torque instruction is output as a torque which is suppressed more than a characteristic curve obtained by combining the constant loss characteristic and a characteristic indicating the relationship between the torque and the number of rotations during normal travel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Assignees: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha, Aisin AW Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masaki Okamura, Masayoshi Suhama, Ken Iwatsuki
  • Publication number: 20110276241
    Abstract: A control apparatus for a power transmitting system of a four wheel-drive vehicle, which includes a first drive power source, a second drive power source, and a central differential mechanism disposed between the first and second drive power sources. The central differential mechanism has an input rotary element and a pair of output rotary elements and is constructed to distribute an output of the first drive power source received by the input rotary element, to the pair of output rotary elements to transmit the output of the first drive power source to front wheels and rear wheels of the vehicle. The second drive power source is disposed in a power transmitting path between one of the pair of output rotary elements and the front or rear wheels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2009
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Applicant: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Michiaki Nakao
  • Patent number: 7974404
    Abstract: A system for providing power to a network interface device (NID) includes a primary power supply device (PPSD), a battery backup device (BBD), and an electrical bus connecting the PPSD, the BBD, and the NID in parallel. The PPSD is operable to power the NID. The BBD is configured to provide power to the NID in response to a power loss event, such as the PPSD failing to provide adequate power to the NID.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: General Instrument Corporation
    Inventor: Dean A. Stoneback
  • Patent number: 7972239
    Abstract: A dual pump strategy for a hybrid electric automatic transmission necessitating one internal mechanically driven pump linked to the engine output shaft and an external fixed displacement pump powered by a brushless permanent magnet motor consisting of a controller with closed loop feedback control for operating such is disclosed. In neutral and electric drive mode, with the engine off, the flow demand for the transmission is sustained largely by the external pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventor: Chino D. Imediegwu
  • Publication number: 20110124465
    Abstract: An automobile dual-power automatic transmission box supplies two different power sources to a wheel to drive an automobile and includes a first power source for rotating a first drive shaft, a second drive shaft rotated by the first drive shaft, a third drive shaft for rotating the wheel, a second power source, a clutch unit for driving the second power source to rotate the third drive shaft when the wheel speed is less than a predetermined value, or driving the second drive shaft for rotating the third drive shaft if the wheel speed is greater than the predetermined value, and a speed change unit for retarding the second drive shaft if the wheel speed reaches the predetermined value, and the clutch unit will drive the first power source to rotate the third drive shaft until the wheel speed approaches the rotating speed of the third drive shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2009
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Inventor: Ze-Chun CHEN
  • Publication number: 20110111919
    Abstract: A transmission for transferring torque from a prime mover includes a first input shaft adapted to be driven by the prime mover, a second input shaft and an output shaft. A compound planetary gearset includes a sun gear driven by the first input shaft, first pinion gears being driven by the sun gear, a ring gear fixed for rotation with the second input shaft and being meshed with second pinion gears, and a carrier driving the output shaft. A reaction motor drives the second input shaft. A controller controls the reaction motor to vary the speed of the second input shaft and define a gear ratio between the first input shaft and the output shaft based on the second input shaft speed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2009
    Publication date: May 12, 2011
    Inventor: David W. WENTHEN
  • Publication number: 20100311538
    Abstract: A hydraulic pressure supply device of an automatic transmission which supplies working oil to the automatic transmission capable of utilizing the oil pressure to make any of a plurality of frictional engagement devices selectively engaged, thereby performing gear shift to transmit the power from an engine to driving wheels of a vehicle is disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2010
    Publication date: December 9, 2010
    Applicant: AISIN SEIKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Tomohiro MIYABE, Ryoichi HIBINO, Shinobu NAKAMURA, Masahiro TOMIDA
  • Patent number: 7803085
    Abstract: An electrically powered driveline assembly includes a first electric motor and a second electric motor that drive corresponding input shafts to drive an output shaft. The first and second electric motors are selectively coupled to facilitate constant torque and speed output of the output shaft during shifting and also in the event of failure of one of the electric motors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation
    Inventor: Richard A. Himmelmann
  • Patent number: 7789796
    Abstract: A method for controlling an idle stop mode in a hybrid electric vehicle includes performing an engine RPM lift-up control to raise an engine RPM if a deceleration is less than a medium deceleration when a speed of a hybrid electric vehicle reaches an idle stop mode entering speed such that as the engine RPM is raised, a gear changing oil pressure is increased, so that a continuously variable transmission (CVT) gear ratio according to a deceleration reaches a target minimum gear ratio, and as the CVT gear ratio reaches the target minimum gear ratio, entering an idle stop mode even when a deceleration is less than a medium deceleration while a transmission control unit (TCU) does not perform a control operation for preventing an idle stop mode from being entered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Yong Kak Choi
  • Patent number: 7734401
    Abstract: A shift control system of a hybrid transmission for a vehicle is arranged to correct ideal motor/generator torques so as to achieve a target engine speed prior to a target driving torque when an actual engine speed becomes greater than an allowable upper-limit engine speed and to correct the ideal motor/generator torque so as to achieve the target driving torque prior to the target engine speed when the actual engine speed does not become greater than the allowable upper-limit engine speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shinichiro Joe, Toshikazu Oshidari
  • Patent number: 7689335
    Abstract: Start/stop decision circuit receives main and sub IG instruction signals from a hold circuit and a sub line, respectively, and if the signals match in logic, the start/stop decision circuit follows the main IG instruction signal's logic to determine whether an ignition switch is turned on/off. If the main and sub IG instruction signals attain the high and low levels, respectively, and a logic discrepancy is thus caused, and a condition is established for speculating that the vehicle is parked and therefrom a decision is made that the vehicle system will be stopped with high probability, then the start/stop decision circuit determines that the ignition switch is turned off, and start/stop decision circuit detects that the hold circuit has an ON failure and subsequently the start/stop decision circuit stops the vehicle system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushik Kaisha
    Inventors: Keiji Kaita, Masaya Amano
  • Publication number: 20090321153
    Abstract: In a drive train for a motor vehicle having at least first and second drive axles each provided with two drive wheels for moving the motor vehicle, wherein the drive train comprises a first drive unit connected to the first drive axle and a second drive unit connected to the second drive unit for driving the wheels of the drive axles or, respectively, being driven thereby, the wheels of the first and second drive axles are operable independently of each other and clutch elements are arranged in the drive train between the wheels of the second axle and the second drive unit for mechanically disconnecting the second drive unit and the wheels of the second drive axle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2008
    Publication date: December 31, 2009
    Inventors: Elmar Boeckenhoff, Dieter Reckels
  • Patent number: 7571605
    Abstract: A system and method for substantially simultaneously shifting the speed of a plurality of multiple-speed motors that have shifting valves. The system and method includes substantially simultaneously applying an equal shifting force to all shifting valves, resisting shifting of all shifting valves with an equal biasing force arising from deflection of springs contained in springs chambers, and fluidly communicating all spring chambers with a common receptacle to equalize the pressure in all spring chambers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Assignee: Clark Equipment Company
    Inventors: Joseph A. St. Aubin, Jeret L. Hoesel, Walter K. Rolf