Abstract: A coupler configured to secure a work tool to a machine is provided. In one embodiment, the coupler comprises a first bore with a first axis configured to receive a first pin, a second bore with a second axis configured to receive a second pin, and an actuator including an actuator rod. The coupler is characterized in that if the first bore receives the first pin, the first pin is configured to pivotally support the coupler to a machine linkage about the first axis and pivotally support the coupler to the work tool about the first axis. Furthermore, if the second bore receives the second pin, the second pin is configured to pivotally support the coupler to a machine boom about the second axis. The coupler is further characterized in that the rod is configured to engage the work tool and, if engaged, the rod intersects the second axis.
Abstract: A system and method for detecting soot and or ash loading within a filter is provided. The method comprises the steps of transmitting a source RF signal through a filter, measuring a reflected RF signal, measuring a transmitted RF signal, calculating reflected power by comparing the source RF signal with the reflected RF signal, calculating attenuated power by comparing the source RF signal with the transmitted RF signal, and determining soot loading based on reflected power and transmitted power. The system and method may also determine ash loading.
Abstract: A method of operating an internal combustion engine is provided. The engine includes a main combustion chamber in fluid communication with a prechamber. The method comprises the step of varying the volume within the prechamber during a portion of a compression stroke of the main combustion chamber.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
March 30, 2005
Date of Patent:
September 5, 2006
Assignee:
Caterpillar Inc.
Inventors:
Brett Bailey, Scott Fiveland, Weidong Gong
Abstract: An apparatus and method for varying a compression ratio of an engine having a block and a head mounted thereto. The apparatus and method includes a cylinder having a block portion and a head portion, a piston linearly movable in the block portion of the cylinder, a cylinder plug linearly movable in the head portion of the cylinder, and a valve located in the cylinder plug and operable to provide controlled fluid communication with the block portion of the cylinder.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
February 18, 2003
Date of Patent:
June 6, 2006
Assignee:
Caterpillar Inc
Inventors:
Keith E. Lawrence, Bryan E. Strawbridge, Charles H. Dutart
Abstract: A control system for determining the net power output of an engine associated with a work machine or other vehicle wherein parasitic loads encountered during engine operation are taken into account, the control system including an electronic controller coupled to the engine, at least one sensor coupled to the controller for inputting at least one signal representative of certain operating parameters associated with the engine, and at least one other sensor coupled to the controller for inputting at least one signal representative of the operation of any parasitic load encountered during engine operation, the controller being operable to determine the total output power of the engine and the power requirements associated with any parasitic load based upon the sensor signals.
Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for processing a signal in a moveable vehicle having an engine. A first combustion governor receives a first control signal and transmits a first governor signal operable to control an engine speed of the engine as a function of the first control signal. A second combustion governor receives the first control signal and to transmits a second governor signal operable to control an engine power production of the engine as a function of the first control signal. A first sensor determines a first characteristic of the vehicle transmits a first selecting signal as a function of the first characteristic. A governor-selecting device is coupled with the sensor to receive the first selecting signal.
Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for limiting torque of a motor on a vehicle. A torque limit determining device receives a weight signal indicative of an approximate weight of the vehicle. The torque limit determining device transmits a torque limit signal indicative of a torque limit for the motor as a function of the weight signal.