Abstract: A through the road (TTR) hybridization strategy is proposed to facilitate introduction of hybrid electric vehicle technology in a significant portion of current and expected trucking fleets. In some cases, the technologies can be retrofitted onto an existing vehicle (e.g., a trailer, a tractor-trailer configuration, etc.). In some cases, the technologies can be built into new vehicles. In some cases, one vehicle may be built or retrofitted to operate in tandem with another and provide the hybridization benefits contemplated herein. By supplementing motive forces delivered through a primary drivetrain and fuel-fed engine with supplemental torque delivered at one or more electrically-powered drive axles, improvements in overall fuel efficiency and performance may be delivered, typically without significant redesign of existing components and systems that have been proven in the trucking industry.

Abstract: A through the road (TTR) hybridization strategy is proposed to facilitate introduction of hybrid electric vehicle technology in a significant portion of current and expected trucking fleets. In some cases, the technologies can be retrofitted onto an existing vehicle (e.g., a trailer, a tractor-trailer configuration, etc.). In some cases, the technologies can be built into new vehicles. In some cases, one vehicle may be built or retrofitted to operate in tandem with another and provide the hybridization benefits contemplated herein. By supplementing motive forces delivered through a primary drivetrain and fuel-fed engine with supplemental torque delivered at one or more electrically-powered drive axles, improvements in overall fuel efficiency and performance may be delivered, typically without significant redesign of existing components and systems that have been proven in the trucking industry.

Abstract: A through the road (TTR) hybridization strategy is proposed to facilitate introduction of hybrid electric vehicle technology in a significant portion of current and expected trucking fleets. In some cases, the technologies can be retrofitted onto an existing vehicle (e.g., a trailer, a tractor-trailer configuration, etc.). In some cases, the technologies can be built into new vehicles. In some cases, one vehicle may be built or retrofitted to operate in tandem with another and provide the hybridization benefits contemplated herein. By supplementing motive forces delivered through a primary drivetrain and fuel-fed engine with supplemental torque delivered at one or more electrically-powered drive axles, improvements in overall fuel efficiency and performance may be delivered, typically without significant redesign of existing components and systems that have been proven in the trucking industry.

Abstract: A system for a vehicle trailer includes a function block having a data input configured to receive gear shift signals of a vehicle towing the vehicle trailer. The function block includes a controller configured to generate a torque increase request signal depending on a received gear shift signal of the gear shift signals, and a data output configured to output the torque increase request signal to an electric motor controller of at least one electric drive of the vehicle trailer.

Abstract: An implement drive system is provided for an implement towed by a prime mover vehicle in a work vehicle train. The system includes an axle arrangement and an auxiliary power unit. The auxiliary power unit includes an electric motor; a planetary gear set receiving rotational input from the electric motor and providing a rotational output with a decreased rotational speed and an increased torque relative to the rotational input; and a disconnect device having an output configured to be coupled to the axle arrangement. The disconnect device is movable to a first position in which the disconnect device transfers the rotational output from the planetary gear set to the axle arrangement such the rotational input drives the wheels of the implement. The disconnect device is movable to a second position in which the disconnect device decouples the axle arrangement from the rotational input of the electric motor.

Abstract: A hydraulic system for utility vehicles includes an auxiliary drive, a hydraulic pump and a first valve arrangement, wherein, in an operating mode, the auxiliary drive is supplied with hydraulic energy by the hydraulic pump via the first valve arrangement, wherein, in addition to the auxiliary drive, the hydraulic pump supplies at least one further hydraulically operated system with hydraulic energy, wherein the hydraulic pump is arranged on a tractor vehicle, and wherein the auxiliary drive is arranged on a trailer, which is able to be coupled to the tractor vehicle.

Abstract: A delayed charging system for a vehicle implements an energy transfer efficiency check prior to the scheduled charge time to confirm sufficient grid power quality and wireless power quality. In addition to this, a foreign object check is performed prior to the scheduled charge. These checks are performed immediately after the customer sets up the delayed session as well as at specified intervals after that. If a power quality issue is detected, the customer will be alerted so they can remedy the situation.

Abstract: The invention relates to a vehicle hydraulic assistance method comprising: two hydraulic devices connected therebetween by a supply line, a return line, a power boost source, and a tank, the power boost source being connected to the supply line and return line via a power boost line and taking the oil from the tank; and a vacuum valve including an input port, connected to the supply line and return line, and an output port connected to the tank. The vacuum valve has a first passing state and a second blocking state. The method includes the steps of: (E1) activating the power boost source when the vehicle fulfills at least one predetermined requirement, the vacuum valve being in the first passing state; and (E2) switching the vacuum valve from the first passing state to the second blocking state when hydraulic assistance is required, thus making it possible to boost power to the supply system and return system.

Abstract: A system for controlling propulsion of a machine is described. The system includes a first sensor for generating a first signal indicative of an articulation angle of the machine. The system also includes at least one transmission power unit coupled to front and rear powertrains of the machine. The system further includes a control module in communication with the first sensor and the at least one transmission power unit. The control module is configured to receive the first signal from the first sensor. The control module is also configured to control the at least one transmission power unit to provide power to at least one of the front powertrain or the rear powertrain, based on the articulation angle of the machine.

Abstract: Provided are an electric vehicle and a vehicle power feeding method capable of charging, at an ultra-high speed, an electricity storage device of the electric vehicle that travels on a trackless road. A control device of the electric vehicle executes a first charging control for controlling a voltage converter to limit the input current from a power feeding portion to an electricity storage device or the variation of the input current per unit time and allowing the voltage converter to charge the electricity storage device; and a second charging control for, for example, slopping the transforming operation of the voltage converter and allowing the voltage converter to charge the electricity storage device. Both charging controls are executed while moving the contact point between an electrical connection portion and the power feeding portion, and the execution time of the second charging control is longer than that of the first charging control.

Abstract: A power supply unit, which supplies hydraulic drive motors of a heavy goods vehicle with hydraulic fluid, includes a frame with first connecting elements for operationally fixed mechanical connection to the heavy goods vehicle and second connecting elements for operationally fixed mechanical connection to a further functional unit, a hydraulic pump, which is attached to the frame, can be driven by an assigned electric motor and during operation feeds hydraulic fluid to drive the hydraulic drive motors, and a battery pack, which is attached to the frame and supplies the electric motor with electrical drive power. The hydraulic pump and electric motor are configured in such a way that the hydraulic pump can be operated as a hydraulic motor and the electric motor can be operated as an electric generator.

Abstract: A generator unit is provided for attachment to an agricultural work vehicle with a gear module and a generator module. The gear for the driving of the generator module is connected in a drive system with the generator module, and the gear module and the generator module are hydraulically connected with one another via an integrated cooling and lubricating agent circuit.

Abstract: Method for deceleration of a hydrostatic transmission 3 driven by a drive motor 2 comprising a closed hydraulic fluid circuit, in which a hydraulic pump 4 coupled mechanically with the drive motor 2 and a hydraulic motor 5 are arranged. Two hydraulic lines 6, 7 connect the hydraulic pump 4 and the hydraulic motor 5 and constitute for the hydraulic motor 5 according to the drive direction of the hydrostatic transmission 3 a supply line 6 and a return line 7.

Abstract: A system and method configured to select a control configuration for a hydraulic fluid system. The system includes a controller having at least one sensor and a processor. The controller is configured to sense a feed pressure and a return pressure of a fluid within the hydraulic fluid system and a speed of a driven set of wheels and a speed of an idle set of wheels. The driven set of wheels are drivingly coupled to an engine, and the idle set of wheels are drivingly coupled to the hydraulic fluid system. The controller is further configured to select a control configuration for the hydraulic fluid system based on a ratio between the feed pressure and the return pressure, and further based on a ratio between the speed of the driven set of wheels and the speed of the idle set of wheels.

Abstract: In a method for operating a medical imaging system and a medical imaging system operating according to such a method, a measurement sequence is divided into a number of partial sequences, with each of the partial sequences resulting in a loading of at least one of these system components when the measurement sequence is executed. The partial sequences are evaluated, in terms of their number and duration, using a computerized model in order to determine whether a load limit for the at least one of the system components is exceeded. If so, the number or duration of the partial sequences is modified, and a check using the computer model is again implemented. A number or respective duration of the partial sequences that results in the load limit not being exceeded is then used as a final output in order to operate the medical imaging system.

Abstract: An apparatus for controlling a brake of a tractor towing a trailer includes a trailer sensor for sensing whether or not the trailer is mounted at the tractor, an auxiliary brake driver for driving an auxiliary brake of the tractor, a main brake driver for driving main brakes of the tractor and the trailer, and a controller for setting a ratio of braking force of the auxiliary brake to a reference value with respect to a required braking force from a smart cruise control (SCC) system and allocating the remaining required braking force to the main brakes of the tractor and the trailer in the case in which the trailer sensor senses that the trailer is mounted at the tractor.

Abstract: A system and method for providing engagement of a dog clutch differential on a vehicle are disclosed. The system may comprise a power source, a dog clutch differential, a CVT and a controller. The dog clutch differential may have first and second members and may distribute torque between first and second output shafts. The second member may be moveable between a disengaged and an engaged position. When the second member is in the engaged position, the first and second output shafts may rotate together. The CVT may be configured to receive power from the power source and to provide output torque to the dog clutch differential. The CVT may receive a torque or speed or ratio command that is independent of engine speed. The controller may, in response to an activation trigger, move the second member to the engaged position when the output torque from the CVT is about zero.

Abstract: An articulated tracked vehicle comprising a first vehicle unit and a second vehicle unit controllably connected by means of a control member, wherein each vehicle unit comprises two driven tracks driven by drive wheels and has one electric motor per track for driving respective drive wheel via drive shafts for propulsion of the vehicle, wherein the first vehicle unit comprises a combustion engine, wherein the combustion engine is arranged to drive a generator for electric power generation, wherein the generator is arranged to transfer electric power via power electronics to the electric motors of each vehicle unit, wherein propulsion of the vehicle is arranged to be effected only electrically, and wherein power transfer between said vehicle units is arranged to be effected only electrically.

Abstract: A portable, motorized platform apparatus that attaches to any walk-behind golf club caddy generally comprising: (a) a standing platform body between first and second wheels; (b) a third swivel wheel located to the rear/center of the platform; (c) a chain driven drive tire on the left and a disc brake tire on the right of the first and second wheels; (d) a frame assembly including an extended tongue attached to the platform to the center rear axle/frame; (e) a motor and a rechargeable electrical power supply; (f) split ring clamps attachable to the handle of the caddy, to allow for quick connect of the platform's handle bar assembly; (g) the handle bar assembly comprising a twist throttle and a braking lever; and wherein once the handle bar assembly is attached, the rider is able to steer said platform by using the modified handle of the walk-behind golf club caddy.

Abstract: A combination including a harvester, a generator vehicle, and a transport vehicle including a chassis, a motor, a plurality of traction devices, and a control unit aligning the transport vehicle in relation to at least one of the harvester and a previous path of the harvester. A method of positioning a train of transport vehicles in relation to a path of the harvester.

Abstract: A grain cart capable of self-propulsion and receiving steering and propulsion inputs from a lateral extendable connector to a tractor for the grain cart so that the grain cart may be deployed close to the central chassis of a combine for unloading of grain.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus may augment the utility of an electrically powered vehicle. A first electric motor (110a or 111a) may be provided with a first effective gear ratio, a second electric motor (110b or 111b) may be provided with a second effective gear ratio, and additional electric motors may be provided additional effective gear ratios. An electrically powered vehicle may be differentially powered by said electric motors at said different effective gear ratios. A transdisciplinary electrical diagnostic processor (440) may process electrically recondite operation parameters of one or more electrical components to provide transdisciplinary diagnostic output to a user. A standardized modular interface (540) supported on a trailer chassis (510) may be configured to accept multipurposed modular interchangeable trailer tops (560) at an interchange position (550) of said trailer chassis (510). A hand actuated accessory mount may be provided with a quick release interface (322).

Abstract: A system and method for charging an electric vehicle includes identifying vehicle information corresponding to the electric vehicle based on an electronic image of the electric vehicle, retrieving from an electronically stored local database a location of a charging port on the electric vehicle based on the vehicle information, robotically moving a charging connector according to the retrieved location to engage the charging port of the electric vehicle, querying the local database to determine whether a current time corresponds to an energy efficient usage time based on energy efficient usage data received from a power grid, and initiating a charging process upon determining that the current time corresponds to the energy efficient usage time.

Abstract: A reverse drive mechanism is configured to rotate at least one wheel of a multi-wheeled device in a reverse direction so that the device moves in that reverse direction. One particular application involves a motorcycle conversion assembly in which at least one of the rear wheels of the conversion assembly is driven in the reverse direction so as to back-up the motorcycle.

Abstract: An improved tractor trailer having a tractor unit and a trailer unit and wherein the tractor unit includes an internal combustion engine, the improvement comprising an electrical drive arranged to drive at least some of the wheels on at least one of the axles of the trailer, in a control system associated therewith. The arrangement provides extra power for situations where it is required and can, in the case of electric drive motors mounted directly on the wheel, provide for better braking.