Patents by Inventor Frank Anthony DeMarco

Frank Anthony DeMarco has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 8205444
    Abstract: A system and method for variator control employs positively directed electronic make-up and flushing relief valves for more precise torque control of a hydraulic variator, especially during torque reversal, as well as improved cold weather operation. This can improve machine response during periods of severe torque change. The ability to more tightly control variator torque allows more precise torque management algorithms for power control and engine matching purposes. Moreover, the ability to positively control venting of the hydraulic circuit for purposes of fluid cooling allows for more consistent machine response regardless of ambient temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Brian D. Kuras, Michael G. Cronin, Frank Anthony DeMarco, Tyler Bowman
  • Patent number: 7788917
    Abstract: A method of controlling a motor includes monitoring a pressure in a circuit supplying a pressurized fluid to the motor, determining a difference between the monitored circuit pressure and a desired circuit pressure, and determining an actuator command for an actuator that is capable of adjusting a pressure of the pressurized fluid supplied to the motor. The actuator command is determined based on the difference between the monitored circuit pressure and the desired circuit pressure, and is independent of a position of the actuator. The method also includes operating the actuator based on the actuator command.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc
    Inventors: Frank Anthony DeMarco, Michael G. Cronin
  • Publication number: 20100095665
    Abstract: A system and method for variator control employs positively directed electronic make-up and flushing relief valves for more precise torque control of a hydraulic variator, especially during torque reversal, as well as improved cold weather operation. This can improve machine response during periods of severe torque change. The ability to more tightly control variator torque allows more precise torque management algorithms for power control and engine matching purposes. Moreover, the ability to positively control venting of the hydraulic circuit for purposes of fluid cooling allows for more consistent machine response regardless of ambient temperature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2008
    Publication date: April 22, 2010
    Applicant: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Brian D. Kuras, Michael G. Cronin, Frank Anthony DeMarco, Tyler Bowman
  • Patent number: 7654135
    Abstract: A test system for a plurality of transmissions is disclosed. Each of the plurality of transmissions may have a transmission input member and a transmission output member. The test system may have a prime mover. The prime mover may have a prime mover output member configured to connect to the transmission input member of each of the plurality of transmissions. Additionally, the test system may have a plurality of inertia devices. Each of the inertia devices may be configured to connect to the transmission output member of one of the plurality of transmissions via a drive shaft. The test system may also have a controller. The controller may be configured to communicate with the prime mover and the plurality of transmissions to control a transfer of power between the plurality of transmissions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventor: Frank Anthony DeMarco
  • Publication number: 20090282904
    Abstract: A test system for a plurality of transmissions is disclosed. Each of the plurality of transmissions may have a transmission input member and a transmission output member. The test system may have a prime mover. The prime mover may have a prime mover output member configured to connect to the transmission input member of each of the plurality of transmissions. Additionally, the test system may have a plurality of inertia devices. Each of the inertia devices may be configured to connect to the transmission output member of one of the plurality of transmissions via a drive shaft. The test system may also have a controller. The controller may be configured to communicate with the prime mover and the plurality of transmissions to control a transfer of power between the plurality of transmissions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2008
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Inventor: Frank Anthony DeMarco
  • Publication number: 20080202112
    Abstract: A method of controlling a motor includes monitoring a pressure in a circuit supplying a pressurized fluid to the motor, determining a difference between the monitored circuit pressure and a desired circuit pressure, and determining an actuator command for an actuator that is capable of adjusting a pressure of the pressurized fluid supplied to the motor. The actuator command is determined based on the difference between the monitored circuit pressure and the desired circuit pressure, and is independent of a position of the actuator. The method also includes operating the actuator based on the actuator command.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2007
    Publication date: August 28, 2008
    Inventors: Frank Anthony DeMarco, Michael G. Cronin