Combined Devices Patents (Class 123/2)
  • Publication number: 20130333636
    Abstract: An apparatus to use waste heat from an internal combustion engine in a vehicle, wherein the apparatus has an exhaust gas line to remove exhaust gases from the internal combustion engine, the exhaust gas line is thermally connected to a high-temperature side of a thermoelectric generator, and a latent heat accumulator is thermally connected to the high-temperature side of the thermoelectric generator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2012
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Applicant: BOMBARDIER TRANSPORTATION GMBH
    Inventors: Karlheinz Geradts, Werner Sonnleitner
  • Publication number: 20130333635
    Abstract: An assembly for supplying electrical energy to electrical traction motors in a rail vehicle, wherein the assembly includes at least one internal combustion engine, a generator allocated to the at least one internal combustion engine for generating the electrical energy, wherein the generator is mechanically coupled to the internal combustion engine such that it is driven by the internal combustion engine upon generator operation of the generator, a rectifier for rectifying an electrical alternating current generated by the generator, a direct voltage intermediate circuit that is electrically connected to the generator via the rectifier, a generator inverter that is present in addition to the rectifier or that is the rectifier operated in the inverter mode, wherein the generator inverter connects the direct voltage intermediate circuit to the generator in order to operate the generator in a motor mode as a motor, and a control for controlling the motor mode of the generator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2012
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Applicant: BOMBARDIER TRANSPORTATION GMBH
    Inventors: Karlheinz Geradts, Andreas Degenhardt
  • Patent number: 8607743
    Abstract: A fuel reforming catalyst is installed in an internal combustion engine, the catalyst generating a combustible gas from a reforming fuel by using heat of the exhaust gas. In the reforming control, the combustible gas generated by action of the fuel reforming catalyst is refluxed into the intake system. An ECU varies a lower limit temperature of the reforming control depending on a mixture ratio of a gasoline and an ethanol in the reforming fuel. If the temperature of the fuel reforming catalyst is lower than the lower limit temperature, the ECU suspends the injection of the reforming fuel. The device can enlarge a temperature range to perform reforming control as much as possible, and perform the reforming control under suitable temperature conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Hideo Yahagi
  • Publication number: 20130327285
    Abstract: A generator set for a transport refrigeration unit that is operable at a first frequency and a second frequency. The generator set includes a generator and a prime mover. The generator set is controlled by an electronic control unit (ECU) that is coupled to a controller. The ECU is configured to monitor the engine operation condition to obtain an engine operation condition value; whereas the controller is configured to receive the engine operation condition value and compare the value with an engine operation condition threshold. When the engine operation condition value, for example, exceeds the engine operation condition threshold, the controller instructs the ECU to operate the engine at a first speed; and when the engine operation condition value, for example, is below the engine operation condition threshold, the controller instructs the ECU to operate the engine at a second speed that is slower than the first speed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Applicant: THERMO KING CORPORATION
    Inventor: THERMO KING CORPORATION
  • Patent number: 8602511
    Abstract: A method of retrofitting a generator set includes disconnecting a removable panel from a frame of a generator set housing. In order to accomplish this, short bolts associated with the removable panel are disconnected from nutserts that are permanently affixed to the frame. A removable panel compliance kit is installed to the generator set frame by threading long bolts through the nutserts and then attaching a pair of nuts in a locking configuration on each of the long bolts. The removable panel, which is modified to include keyhole shaped bolt openings, is then reconnected to the frame by advancing the long bolts further into the respective nutserts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Nader W. Ktami, Gareth Campbell, Ian D. Henderson
  • Publication number: 20130319349
    Abstract: The machine combination of an internal combustion engine and the generator of a hybrid drive has two cylinder-piston units, which are arranged parallel to each other in a common housing and each piston of which has a drive connection to an individual crankshaft via connecting rods associated with the pistons. The crankshafts have a counter-rotational connection to each other by gears. This coupling of the two crankshafts by gears allows the internal combustion engine to be combined with a generator in a particularly compact design, in that the shaft of the generator bears a gear, which is arranged in the same plane as the gears of the crankshafts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2011
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicant: OBRIST POWERTRAIN GMBH
    Inventors: Frank Obrist, Bernd Praesent
  • Publication number: 20130312675
    Abstract: In a hydraulic control apparatus for a continuously variable transmission that enables gear ratio variation by controlling supply of hydraulic oil to first and second hydraulic actuators, there are provided with first and second oil passages connecting the first and second actuators to a reservoir, a single electric hydraulic pump installed at a common portion thereof, first and second check valves installed in the first and second oil passages for blocking flow of hydraulic oil to the reservoir, first and second bypass passages formed in the first and second oil passages, a control valve installed therebetween, a fourth check valve installed in the first and second bypass passages for blocking flow of hydraulic oil to the hydraulic pump, and a controller for controlling these, thus readily enabling a configuration that reduces the number of electric hydraulic pumps to one and minimizes cost increase.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2012
    Publication date: November 28, 2013
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Toru Yagasaki
  • Patent number: 8590496
    Abstract: An energy conversion and free hydrogen producing system including a electromagnetically energized reciprocating piston motor, a plurality of lead acid flow through batteries, each consisting of a plurality of individual flow through lead acid cells, and a hydrogen burning internal combustion engine. With concentrated sulfuric acid as the primary fluid, the electromagnetically energized reciprocation piston motor, and the hydrogen burning internal combustion engine provide a rotational torque output.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Inventors: Mark Forman, Javier C. Sanchez
  • Publication number: 20130291810
    Abstract: An engine-operated device includes a dust separating device. An air inlet provided on a first end side of the dust separating device. A first discharge opening is provided in the lateral surface on a second end side of the longitudinal direction, and a second discharge opening is provided to be separated from the first discharge opening. A first connecting passage is connected between the first discharge opening and the rotor cover of a magneto-rotor, and a second connecting passage is connected between an upstream side of an air cleaner case and the second discharge opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2011
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Applicant: HITACHI KOKI CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Tomomasa Nishikawa, Fumikazu Hirasawa
  • Publication number: 20130284125
    Abstract: A method of operating a drive-train of a hybrid vehicle which comprises at least a hybrid drive with an internal combustion engine and an electric machine, an automatic or automated change-speed transmission connected between the hybrid drive and a drive output, and a clutch connected between the internal combustion engine and the electric machine. When starting the internal combustion engine from a purely electric driving mode, the clutch is initially disengaged. To start the internal combustion engine, the clutch is at least partially engaged and the internal combustion engine is drag-started by the electric machine, and, in parallel with starting the internal combustion engine, a downshift in the transmission is initiated once a rotational speed of the internal combustion engine reaches or exceeds an applicable threshold value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2011
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Applicant: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Tobias Zollner, Bernd Allgaier, Clemens Kuhn, Patrick Peter, Lorenz Fehrenbach, Holger Bacher
  • Publication number: 20130284123
    Abstract: The disclosure is directed to an energy recovery system for a mobile machine. The energy recovery system may include a tank configured to store a liquid fuel for combustion within an engine of the mobile machine, and a combustor selectively connectable to receive gaseous fuel formed in the tank. The energy recovery system may also include a recovery device operable to generate work using exhaust from the combustor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2012
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Inventor: Aaron Gamache FOEGE
  • Publication number: 20130284124
    Abstract: A power unit for generation of electric current is disclosed. A hydraulic motor, powered by a source of pressurized hydraulic fluid, is coupled to and turns a generator, producing direct or alternating electric current. The hydraulic motor and generator are mounted on a base section, which in turn can be mounted on a desired surface, for example a trailer used in connection with hydraulic fracturing operations on oil and gas wells. A cover is hingedly connected to the base section, and in a first position is swung into a closed position covering the hydraulic motor and electric generator. With the cover in a second, open position, easy access is had to the the hydraulic motor and electric generator. Instrumentation showing operating conditions of the hydraulic motor and electric generator may be mounted in one or more openings in the cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2013
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Inventors: Matthew Austin Conques, Kenneth James Conques
  • Publication number: 20130284126
    Abstract: A brushcutter includes: a centrifugal clutch (20) that transmits a drive force of an engine from a crankshaft to a drive shaft; a clutch housing (23) covering the cooling fan and the centrifugal clutch, the clutch housing being made of a synthetic resin; and a bearing that is held inside the clutch housing (23) and supports a coupling shaft that couples the drive shaft and the centrifugal clutch (20). A volute-shaped air-flow space (27) defined including a rise wall (26) surrounding the centrifugal clutch (20) is provided inside the clutch housing (23) near an outer circumference of the centrifugal clutch (20). An inflow opening (28, 29) that lets a cooling air flowing in the air-flow space (27) flow into an inner air-flow space (53) and an outflow opening (52) that lets the cooling air flowing in the air-flow space (53) flow out to the air-flow space (27) are provided on the rise wall (26).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2011
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Applicant: HUSQVARNA AB
    Inventors: Takayuki Kimura, Hiroshi Hokari, Yuusuke Kawasaki
  • Patent number: 8567354
    Abstract: Portable energy generation systems are disclosed. More particularly, a high-output mobile electrical generator system comprising a radial engine power source providing a highly compact physical format.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Clear Energy Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony J. Carmen, Douglas R. Heise, Janet R. Kealy
  • Patent number: 8567355
    Abstract: An integrated control system for use with an engine connected to a generator providing electrical power to a switchgear is disclosed. The engine receives gas produced by a gasifier. The control system includes an electronic controller associated with the gasifier, engine, generator, and switchgear. A gas flow sensor monitors a gas flow from the gasifier to the engine through an engine gas control valve and provides a gas flow signal to the electronic controller. A gas oversupply sensor monitors a gas oversupply from the gasifier and provides an oversupply signal indicative of gas not provided to the engine. A power output sensor monitors a power output of the switchgear and provide a power output signal. The electronic controller changes gas production of the gasifier and the power output rating of the switchgear based on the gas flow signal, the oversupply signal, and the power output signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Paul Sai Keat Wang, Darryl Baldwin, Myoungjin Kim
  • Publication number: 20130276725
    Abstract: An ECU executes a program including the steps of carrying out low-load control when an IG OFF operation is performed, when a vehicle is running, and when stop of an engine is not permitted, carrying out gate cut-off control, ending low-load control and gate cut-off control when a brake pedal has been operated, when a vehicle speed is lower than a threshold value, or when a prescribed time period has elapsed since the IG OFF operation, permitting stop of the engine, and carrying out fuel cut control.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2011
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Hideaki Yaguchi, Takeshi Hoshiba, Akihiro Kimura, Masahiro Naito
  • Publication number: 20130276724
    Abstract: A work apparatus has an internal combustion engine for driving a work tool of the work apparatus and a fuel pump which is driven by the engine and delivers fuel from a fuel tank to the engine. The work apparatus has a feed pump which is to be actuated manually by the operator. The fuel pump and the feed pump form one component which is arranged outside the fuel tank. The fuel tank has a tank wall which delimits the tank interior. An advantageous arrangement arid satisfactory cooling of the component are achieved if the component is arranged at least partially on the tank wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: Andreas Stihl AG & Co. KG
    Inventors: Jonas Lank, Helmut Zimmermann, Klaus-Martin Uhl
  • Publication number: 20130276849
    Abstract: A system includes at least one thermoelectric generator configured to generate electricity in response to a temperature difference across at least a portion of the at least one thermoelectric generator. The system further includes at least one fluid conduit in thermal communication with the at least one thermoelectric generator. The at least one fluid conduit is configured to have at least one working fluid flow through the at least one fluid conduit. The system further includes at least one device configured to direct the at least one working fluid through the at least one fluid conduit. The at least one device is powered by at least a portion of the electricity generated by the at least one thermoelectric generator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: Gentherm, Incorporated
    Inventors: Dmitri Kossakovski, Douglas T. Crane, Vladimir Jovovic
  • Publication number: 20130269632
    Abstract: In some embodiments, systems are provided in which electric power generated from a renewable energy source such as a solar or wind power system during low demand periods is used to drive an electric motor which turns an air hybrid split-cycle engine. The split-cycle engine operates in AC mode during this time to compress air into a storage tank. Later, during high demand periods, compressed air stored in the tank and added fuel are fed to the split-cycle engine, which operates in AEF mode. The work generated by the split-cycle engine turns a generator to produce electric power. When the supply of compressed air stored in the storage tank is depleted, the split-cycle engine can operate in an NF mode to serve as a backup generator, or in an FC mode to serve as a backup generator while simultaneously recharging the air storage tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2013
    Publication date: October 17, 2013
    Inventors: Riccardo Meldolesi, Stephen P. Scuderi, Salvatore C. Scuderi
  • Publication number: 20130255595
    Abstract: An air connector is described mountable opposite an intake or exhaust port in an associated intake or exhaust pipe of an internal combustion engine to allow the port to communicate selectively with the associated pipe and with a compressed air storage tank. The connector comprises a stopper mounted on a rod movable by an actuator between an open position in which the port communicates with the associated pipe and a closed position in which the stopper seals around the entrance of the port to isolate the port from the associated pipe. An air passage is provided in the stopper and the rod to allow communication between the port and the compressed air storage tank when the stopper is in the closed position, and a check valve is arranged in the air passage and biased in a direction to prevent escape of air from the compressed air storage tank in all positions of the stopper.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2011
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: BRUNEL UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Thomas Ma, Hua Zhao
  • Publication number: 20130232939
    Abstract: Described herein are embodiments of systems and methods for oxidizing gases. In some embodiments, a reaction chamber is configured to receive a fuel gas and maintain the gas at a temperature within the reaction chamber that is above an autoignition temperature of the gas. The reaction chamber may also be configured to maintain a reaction temperature within the reaction chamber below a flameout temperature. In some embodiments, heat and product gases from the oxidation process can be used, for example, to drive a turbine, reciprocating engine, and injected back into the reaction chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2012
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Applicant: FlexEnergy, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey ARMSTRONG, Richard MARTIN, Douglas HAMRIN
  • Publication number: 20130236370
    Abstract: Described herein are embodiments of systems and methods for oxidizing gases. In some embodiments, a reaction chamber is configured to receive a fuel gas and maintain the gas at a temperature within the reaction chamber that is above an autoignition temperature of the gas. The reaction chamber may also be configured to maintain a reaction temperature within the reaction chamber below a flameout temperature. In some embodiments, heat and product gases from the oxidation process can be used, for example, to drive a turbine, reciprocating engine, and injected back into the reaction chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2012
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Applicant: FLEXENERGY, INC.
    Inventor: Boris A. MASLOV
  • Patent number: 8512181
    Abstract: A power unit including an internal combustion engine with a crankshaft and a power transmission system. The power transmission system being equipped with a belt-type continuously variable transmission having a drive shaft and a driven shaft. The belt-type continuously variable transmission being disposed below the axis of the crankshaft wherein the torque from the crankshaft is transmitted to the drive shaft for rotating the crankshaft and the drive shaft rotate in opposite directions. An output shaft, linked and interlocked with the driven shaft via a gear transmission system, is disposed above the continuously variable transmission. A gear transmission mechanism includes a single idle shaft, which has an axis parallel to the crankshaft, and being arranged between the driven shaft and the output shaft for rotating the driven shaft and the output shaft in the same direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Toshimasa Mitsubori, Erika Hara
  • Publication number: 20130199465
    Abstract: An engine which includes a rotor mounted relative to an output shaft, the rotor having one or more piston cylinder assembly's disposed in or on the rotor. The longitudinal axis/axes of the one or more piston cylinder assembly's is orientated to be tangential to a peripheral rim of the rotor. The rotor or output shaft has a lobed cam which rotates at the same, greater or slower speed than the rotor and in which via compression and combustion, each piston rotates the rotor continuously relative to a stationary part of the engine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2011
    Publication date: August 8, 2013
    Applicant: GRACE MOTOR WORKS LIMITED
    Inventor: William Llewis White
  • Publication number: 20130199464
    Abstract: Drive device having an internal combustion engine with a crankshaft; an electric machine with a rotor which rotates on a rotor shaft; a gearbox device; wherein the rotational axis of the crankshaft and the rotational axis of the rotor are arranged one next to the other in parallel; wherein the electric machine and the internal combustion engine are connected to one another by means of a gearbox element, wherein the electric machine and the internal combustion engine are positioned outside the gearbox device; the electric machine and the internal combustion engine have a common output shaft which is connected to the gearbox element and which is connected or can be connected to an input shaft of the gearbox device, wherein the common output shaft is positioned upstream of, or together with, the input shaft in the direction of the drive power flux from the internal combustion engine to the gearbox device, and wherein a hydrodynamic clutch is arranged between the rotor shaft of the electric machine and the common
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2011
    Publication date: August 8, 2013
    Inventor: Ulrich Burr
  • Publication number: 20130199463
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an energy-conversion system comprising an internal combustion engine (1) and a generator (2) which is driven by the internal combustion engine, and comprising a rotational connection which couples a first shaft (3) of the internal combustion engine (1) to at least one second shaft (5) of the energy-conversion system, wherein the second shaft (5) rotates in the opposite direction to the first shaft (3) and the first shaft (3) is arranged parallel to the second shaft (5), wherein products of moments of inertia and respectively associated rotational speed ratios of individual rotating components, which are rotationally coupled to one another by means of the rotational connection, at least approximately cancel one another out.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2011
    Publication date: August 8, 2013
    Applicant: FEV GMBH
    Inventors: Martin Pischinger, Christoph Steffens, Karsten Wittek, Markus Kalenborn
  • Patent number: 8499722
    Abstract: A portable, on-demand hydrogen generation system producing hydrogen and injecting the hydrogen into the air intake of internal combustion engines. Hydrogen and oxygen is produced with an electrolyzer from nonelectrolyte water in a supply tank. The hydrogen and oxygen is passed back thru the supply tank for distribution and water preservation. The gases are kept separate by a divider in the tank. The device is optionally powered by the vehicle battery, a stand alone battery, waste heat of the internal combustion engine or solar energy. The system utilizes a vacuum switch or other engine sensor that permits power to the device and therefore hydrogen production only when the engine is in operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: HNO Greenfuels, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald Wade Owens
  • Patent number: 8495974
    Abstract: A process and apparatus is provided for burning liquid ammonia in an energy device such as a diesel engine, boiler or gas turbine. In particular, the process and apparatus include mixing a renewable fuel with a low flame speed and high ignition temperature, e.g., ammonia, with a combustible liquid fossil or bio-fuel and supplying the mixture into a closed fuel loop where part is efficiently burned in an engine combustion chamber, and part is used to cool the engine and returned by the loop for mixture with fresh incoming fuel mixture. The invention provides for the mixing and emulsifying in such a way that vapor lock is avoided. In the loop, the mixture is emulsified into a disperse distribution of fuel droplets such that upon injection of a portion into the combustion chamber, the renewable fuel in an emulsified droplet evaporates, mixes with the air and forms a small combustion cell surrounding the liquid fuel droplet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Inventor: Vito Agosta
  • Patent number: 8490584
    Abstract: The air hybrid engine with dual chamber cylinder with an air storage tank is an energy recovery unit from deceleration and breaking the vehicle and will perform as power management. During deceleration mode of a vehicle where the compressor chamber in the engine will recover energy by compressing the air and storing the compressed in a storage tank. During acceleration mode the engine will run in a mixed mode, conventional mode and air motor mode. The compressed air can also be used for starting the engine. The engine will operate in the “sweet spot” to optimize fuel consumption by using the lower chamber and or upper chamber in compression mode or an idle mode. The compressed air from the air storage tank can be used for other purposes such as air suspension and or to power pneumatic tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Inventor: Rez Mustafa
  • Publication number: 20130180476
    Abstract: A portable engine configured to operate a working machine includes: an engine body mainly configured by a crankcase and a cylinder; a carburetor connected to an inlet port of the cylinder; an air cleaner connected to the carburetor to filter suction air; a cleaner box configured to accommodate the air cleaner; and a fuel tank configured to store fuel which is supplied to the cylinder, wherein at least a part of the fuel tank is located between the cleaner box and the engine body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2013
    Publication date: July 18, 2013
    Applicant: HITACHI KOKI CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Hitachi Koki Co., Ltd.
  • Patent number: 8487455
    Abstract: A welding generator system, in certain embodiments, has a generally vertical arrangement of a drive and a generator. The welding generator system may include a motor and a generator coupled to the motor, wherein the generator includes a rotor having an axis oriented in a generally upright direction relative to a base portion of the welding generator system. The welding generator system also may include a thrust bearing configured to support an axial load of the rotor, and a welding power system coupled to the generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventor: Mike Trinkner
  • Publication number: 20130160722
    Abstract: A hybrid vehicle employing an internal combustion engine and an electric drive includes a turbine powered by exhaust gases from the internal combustion engine. The turbine drives a generator which provides electrical power to the electric drive motor and the electrical power storage system for the drive, usually comprising a battery. This exhaust gas energy recovery system may be used with either a serial hybrid system in which the internal combustion engine powers another generator or a parallel system in which both the mechanical outputs of the internal combustion and electric motor are combined to drive the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2013
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Applicant: HYBRID ELECTRIC CONVERSION CO., LLC
    Inventor: HYBRID ELECTRIC CONVERSION CO., LLC
  • Patent number: 8464667
    Abstract: A hydrogen system for diesel and gas engines, comprising a housing assembly containing an aqueous solution. A heating assembly comprises a first inlet, a first outlet, and tubing connecting the first inlet to the first outlet. A hydrogen generator is contained within the housing assembly. It comprises a second inlet and a second outlet, and at least a top wall and a base wall. The top wall is at a predetermined angle to allow the aqueous solution to flow and circulate into a connecting tube. The hydrogen generator comprises negative charged rods and positive charged rods. The hydrogen generator generates hydrogen and oxygen gas for use in an internal combustion engine to improve combustion efficiency and to decrease emissions. The hydrogen generator serves as an electrolysis cell to generate the oxygen and hydrogen gas with electric current from a power source being passed through the aqueous solution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Inventor: Giulio Stama
  • Publication number: 20130098031
    Abstract: Embodiments for an internal combustion engine having at least one cylinder, at least one exhaust line for discharging combustion gases via an exhaust-gas discharge system, and at least one intake line for supplying charge air via an intake system are provided. In one example, an internal combustion engine comprises an exhaust-gas recirculation arrangement which comprises a recirculation line which branches off from the exhaust-gas discharge system and which opens into the intake system, an exhaust-gas turbocharger comprising a compressor arranged in the intake system and a turbine arranged in the exhaust-gas discharge system, a throttle element which is arranged in the intake line downstream of the compressor, a bypass line which branches off from the intake line upstream of the throttle element and which opens into the intake line again downstream of the throttle element, and an expansion machine for gaining additional energy arranged in the bypass line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2012
    Publication date: April 25, 2013
    Applicant: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
  • Patent number: 8424496
    Abstract: Methods and systems for starting a vehicle engine are provided. One example method for starting a vehicle engine having a plurality of cylinders may include generating hydrogen gas and oxygen gas onboard the vehicle from water. The method may further include maintaining the hydrogen gas and oxygen gas together as a gaseous mixture. The method may further include injecting the gaseous mixture to at least one cylinder of the engine during a start.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Ross Dykstra Pursifull
  • Publication number: 20130087108
    Abstract: A combustion-engined setting tool for driving fastening elements in a workpiece includes a combustion chamber (14) for an oxidant-fuel mixture, a ventilator (16) located in the combustion chamber and driven by an electric motor (18), and an electrical energy source (24) for supplying electrical energy to the electric motor (18) which forms part of a generator unit (30) for generating the electrical energy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2012
    Publication date: April 11, 2013
    Applicant: HILTI AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventor: HILTI AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
  • Publication number: 20130047939
    Abstract: An air inlet system (10) for an internal combustion engine (200) is provided. The air inlet system comprises an air intake port (20), an air output port (30) for providing air for a combustion chamber (202) of the combustion engine (200), and a turbine (40). The turbine (40) is situated in between the air intake port (20) and the air output port (30) for turning kinetic energy of an airstream from the air intake port (20) to the air output port (30) into mechanical energy. The turbine (40) comprises at least one adjustable vane (48) for controlling an air flow resistance of the turbine (40). An electrical generator (46) is coupled to the turbine (40) for converting the mechanical energy into electrical energy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2011
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicant: PROGRESSION-INDUSTRY B.V.
    Inventors: Michael Dirk Boot, Ruud Henricus Lambertus Eichhorn
  • Patent number: 8381701
    Abstract: A bio-diesel fuel engine system and bio-diesel fuel engine operating method capable of producing a biomass fuel from a liquid state biomass source material of a fat-containing vegetable or animal oil allowing fuel to be combusted in a conventional diesel engine while providing the benefits of low fuel consumption, stable engine operation, and extended engine service life, with compared to use a biomass fuel reformed by methyl-ester method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Inventors: Tetuo Sugioka, Akira Sakamoto
  • Publication number: 20130042825
    Abstract: The present invention is intended to reduce the friction of an internal combustion engine in a suitable manner when the internal combustion engine is in a cold state, thereby to attain the reduction of fuel consumption as well as the reduction of exhaust emission. In order to achieve this object, a lubrication system of an internal combustion engine of the present invention is provided with a generator which is capable of carrying out heat exchange with lubricating oil in the internal combustion engine, wherein an amount of electric power generated by the generator is increased when the temperature of the lubricating oil is lower than a target temperature. According to this lubrication system of an internal combustion engine, it becomes possible to quickly raise the temperature of the lubricating oil to the target temperature with the heat produced by the generator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2009
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Yuichi Shimasaki, Yoshinori Futonagane, Takuya Hirai
  • Patent number: 8373289
    Abstract: A fuel module comprises an enclosure and a fuel chamber. In one exemplary embodiment, the fuel chamber comprises a primary containment tank contained within a secondary containment tank. The enclosure comprises a plurality of exterior enclosure walls and a plurality of interior enclosure walls that cooperate to form the secondary containment tank such that the primary containment tank is disposed between the exterior enclosure walls and the interior enclosure walls. In another exemplary embodiment, the exterior enclosure walls and the interior enclosure walls cooperate to form a single-walled fuel chamber disposed between the exterior and interior enclosure walls of the fuel module. Additional exemplary embodiments include fuel chambers configured as any multiple-wall structures, whether double-wall, triple-wall, or other, that comprise a plurality of containment tanks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: F3 & I2, LLC
    Inventor: Jefferey Allen Hunter
  • Patent number: 8360013
    Abstract: A system for separating an ethanol-gasoline blended fuel into gasoline and ethanol-water mixture by mixing water therewith with a lightweight, compact and simple configuration is provided. The system includes a fuel tank for storing a blended fuel; pump means for sucking the blended fuel in the fuel tank, separating the blended fuel into gasoline and ethanol-water mixture by mixing water therewith, and pressure-feeding the separated gasoline and ethanol-water mixture; a separation tank provided inside the fuel tank, and storing the gasoline and the ethanol-water mixture pressure-fed by the pump means in a state separated from each other and in a pressurized state; gasoline drawing means for drawing the gasoline stored in the separation tank via a first on-off valve; and ethanol drawing means for drawing the ethanol-water mixture stored in the separation tank via a second on-off valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yasuyuki Kubo, Junichi Kamio, Tadashi Kurotani
  • Patent number: 8360015
    Abstract: Systems and methods for monitoring a fuel reformer which reforms ethanol into a reformate gas comprising H2, CO, and CH4 for fueling an engine are provided. Degradation of the fuel reformer may be indicated based on an amount of ethanol injected into the fuel reformer and an amount of at least one of H2, CO, and CH4 produced by the fuel reformer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Ross Dykstra Pursifull
  • Patent number: 8360014
    Abstract: In the context of an enclosure-housed engine in which an engine 10 is housed within an enclosure 2, the present invention is such that arranged in an intake chamber 8A, separate from one or more chambers where a radiator 18 and the engine are disposed, there is engine intake equipment comprising an air cleaner 22 and an intake silencer 23; the constitution being such that at least one wall face of said intake chamber is subjected to a cooling airstream, intake and exhaust of which are driven by a radiator fan; and the constitution being such that the radiator fan 19 is driven, regardless of whether or not engine coolant within the radiator is circulating, when outside air temperature is greater than or equal to a prescribed temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Yanmar Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masaaki Ono, Toshiyuki Hayashi, Hirotoshi Kihara, Shojiro Matsumura
  • Patent number: 8353269
    Abstract: Internal combustion engine system. The system includes a source of gasoline for direct injection into cylinders of a spark ignition engine along with a source of an antiknock fuel for injection into the intake ports of the engine as needed to prevent knock. A preferred antiknock fuel is ethanol or an ethanol/gasoline blend having an ethanol content of 20% by volume or more. Other suitable antiknock fuels are methanol, a combination of ethanol and methanol, and a blend of gasoline with either ethanol, methanol, or an ethanol/methanol mixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Emmanouil Kasseris, John B. Heywood
  • Patent number: 8334604
    Abstract: An integrated engine and generator is provided and includes a stationary non-rotating shaft. An engine block is provided that is capable of rotation about the shaft. The engine block comprises a plurality of cylinders with each cylinder including a piston translating in rectilinear motion while rotating about the shaft. A stationary generator housing and stator surrounds the block and has stator windings wound into the housing. Magnets are affixed to an outer surface of the block to rotate with the block, with the magnets separated from the housing by an air gap. The stator windings are electrically configured to match pole pairs of the magnets in order to generate electrical current upon block rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Paul M. Dunn, Christopher J. Egan
  • Publication number: 20120247407
    Abstract: A mixing block to supply a throttle-able hydrogen and air mixture to an internal combustion engine includes a bore through the mixing block between an air intake side and an engine intake side. A slider chamber is disposed orthogonal to and intersecting the bore, where the slider chamber houses a movable slider biased to at least partially block the bore but throttle-able to overcome the bias and reduce blockage of the bore. A jet chamber is disposed parallel to and intersecting the slider chamber and extending away from the slider chamber a distance sufficient to accommodate a shaped needle, where the needle is connected to the slider on one side such that the needle moves within the jet chamber as the slider moves in the slider chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2011
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Applicant: Hydrogen Energy Systems, LLC
    Inventor: Rick M. Saccone
  • Patent number: 8276831
    Abstract: A box truck for supplying sufficient electrical power and compressed air flow to enable spray foam contractors to use specialized equipment to foam insulate buildings. Such a truck has the necessary generator and air compressor systems mounted within the chassis of the vehicle and said systems do not take up valuable cargo space within the truck box, while utilizing components present in normal box truck designs to assist in their operation. The generator system is hydraulically powered and utilizes a PTO (Power Take-Off) mechanism to use power from the truck power train to drive the hydraulic system. The air compressor is a screw type compression system and is belt driven off the truck engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Inventor: Keith D. Rutherford
  • Patent number: 8272353
    Abstract: Embodiments are shown wherein ammonia is used for powering, heating and cooling of various applications including: vehicles (terrestrial, naval, aero-spatial or other engine-driven equipment), residential and commercial buildings, remote generators, refrigerated transport. An ammonia-fuelled internal combustion engine comprising; a thermally insulated fuel tank adapted to store ammonia; a heat exchangers operably connected to the fuel tank, wherein the heat exchanger is adapted to heat the ammonia; a decomposition and separation unit operably connected to the heat exchangers and having a hydrogen conduit and a nitrogen conduit, wherein the decomposition and separation unit is adapted to separate the heated ammonia into hydrogen and nitrogen and stream them into the hydrogen and nitrogen conduits respectively; and an internal combustion engine operably connected to the hydrogen conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Assignee: University of Ontario Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Ibrahim Dincer, Calin Zamfirescu
  • Patent number: 8261717
    Abstract: A power management system, in certain aspects, may utilize direct load sensing feedback from the prime mover (e.g., engine), thereby reducing the possibility of overloading the prime mover. The use of direct load sense feedback from the prime mover can then be used with additional feedback, such as prime mover RPM feedback and individual output load sensing feedback, to directly control the output loads and set the primary power sources rpm set-point to better manage the power available and reduce the possibility of overloading the primary power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Benjamin G. Peotter, Ross Renner
  • Publication number: 20120210952
    Abstract: A motor vehicle includes a combustion engine and an intake tract for feeding air to the combustion engine. A compressor is arranged in the intake tract for compressing air, and a turbine is arranged in the intake tract downstream of the compressor and powered by air compressed in the compressor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2011
    Publication date: August 23, 2012
    Applicant: Audi AG
    Inventors: Thomas Reuss, Marc Fessler