Abstract: A regenerative braking system is provided. The regenerative braking system includes at least one energy storage medium operably connected to a coupler. The coupler is operable to selectively couple and decouple the energy storage medium with a drive train of motor vehicle, or an electric generator, or a combination of both. A control arrangement governs the operation of the coupler. A sensor of the control arrangement is operable to determine information relating to the relative deceleration and acceleration of the motor vehicle and send said information to the controller. The controller is operable to determine the amount of energy storage medium or mediums to be coupled to the drive train via the coupler.

Abstract: A method and system for an external combustion engine operable using at least two different working fluids to be supplied to an engine to cause it to do mechanical work. The engine is started by providing a compressed gaseous working fluid at a sufficient pressure to the engine. At the same time the compressed gaseous working fluid is provided to the engine, a second working fluid that is liquid at ambient temperatures is provided to a heater to be heated. The second working fluid is heated to its boiling point and converted to pressurized gas form. Once the pressure is increased to a sufficient level, the second working fluid is injected into the engine to generate power, and the supply of the first working fluid may be stopped. After expansion in the engine, the working fluids are is exhausted from the engine, and the second working fluid may be condensed for separation from the first working fluid. The initial compressed fluid is recompressed for later use.

Abstract: An exemplary system includes a vehicle having a drive wheel mechanically coupled to a drive shaft of a hybrid power train. The hybrid power train includes an internal combustion engine and an electric motor selectively coupled to the drive shaft. The internal combustion engine including a compression braking device. The system includes an electric generator selectively coupled to the drive shaft and coupled to an electrical storage device. The system includes a brake pedal position sensor that provides a braking request value. The system includes a controller configured to interpret the braking request value, a regenerative braking capacity, and a compression braking capacity. The controller is further configured to provide a regenerative braking command and a compression braking command in response to the braking request value, the regenerative braking capacity and the compression braking capacity.

Abstract: A traveling hydraulic handling machine of energy-saving type includes a driving system and a control system for both hoisting and traveling. The hydraulic handling machine converts partly potential energy of a heavy object before being lowered and kinetic energy of a vehicle before being braked to pressure energy of a fluid and stores the pressure energy into a hydraulic energy accumulator (15) by using added hydraulic elements with the aid of the original hydraulic system of the handling machine during lifting and lowering of the heavy object as well as braking and starting of the vehicle, thus enabling potential energy of the heavy object and kinetic energy of the vehicle obtained by consuming power to be partly regenerated during next lifting of the heavy object and starting of the vehicle, to reduce the load and power of a power machine for driving an oil pump and starting the vehicle.

Abstract: A vehicle speed-based operational cost optimization module provides an optimized velocity profile over a given route while also considering imposed constraints such as deviation from time targets, deviation from maximum governed speed limits, etc. Given current vehicle speed, engine state and transmission state, the present disclosure optimally manages the engine map to provide a recommended vehicle speed that optimizes fuel consumption. Exemplary embodiments provide for offline and online optimizations relative to fuel consumption. The benefit is increased freight efficiency in transporting cargo from source to destination by minimizing fuel consumption and maintaining drivability.

Abstract: A method providing assistance with hill starts to a vehicle including a power plant connected to the driven wheels by a clutch and an automatic parking brake. The method generates an instruction to store in a memory a characteristic of a gradient which corresponds to a state in which it is estimated that the user and the vehicle are ready to pull away, on the basis of conditions that given physical parameters of the vehicle must satisfy.

Abstract: A vehicle includes an engine, a transmission associated with the engine, and an engine retarder having a deactivated state and an activated state. The engine retarder is configured to provide a retarding torque to the engine in the activated state. The vehicle also includes a fan associated with the engine. The fan is configured to be activated in response to a selection of a transmission gear ratio greater than or equal to a threshold gear ratio while the engine retarder is in the activated state. The fan assists in providing additional retarding torque to the engine while activated.

Abstract: A four-stage power distribution system (100) includes (i) a first stage (110) having an inverter (112) that provides power to a frequency drive (114) and an electric motor (116) controlled by the frequency drive; (ii) a second stage (120) having a flywheel (122) driven by the motor; (iii) a third stage (130) having an alternator (132) driven by the motor (116) and connected to the flywheel, and a rectifier (134) that receives current from the alternator and generates a direct current; and (iv) a fourth stage (140) having a charge control switch (142) that receives power from the rectifier, and a plurality of power storage devices such as batteries (144A-144C). A master control switch (150) controls the charge control switch to transition the plurality of batteries individually between a charging configuration and a load configuration. One or more of the battery(ies) in the load configuration provides power to the inverter.

Abstract: A pneumatic system has a compressor (8), a pneumatic reservoir (20) for a gaseous pressure transmission medium, at least one valve device (12) and at least one pneumatically actuable actuator (4). To provide satisfactory functioning even under extreme temperatures, and to provide a simple cost effective construction, the pneumatic reservoir (20) to which the compressor (8) is connected has a variable volume.

Abstract: A standard change gear transmission is separated from a vehicle's engine by a compact modulator having modulator rotor, modulator stator/flywheel, and a fixed modulator induction coil. Upon application of the vehicle's braking mechanism, the modular flywheel selectively and independently delivers vehicle kinetic energy to the transmission by means of an extended, clutched transmission or modulator shaft.

Abstract: A pneumatic-internal combustion (IC) engine based power management system with improved energy efficiency for automobile application. More particularly, the pneumatic IC engine based power management system comprises a compressor, a pressure vessel, a pneumatic motor and related control mechanisms to provide energy on demand and reduce environmental pollution. The compressor is driven by the IC engine during low power demand by the vehicle. The lightweight pressure vessel wrapped with high strength metal wire and/or fibers provide impact resistance adequate to store compressed air at rated pressure. For low/no load condition of engine or compressor, the IC engine will shut off rather than idling to save fuel. The stored compressed air drives the air motor that powers the vehicle's initial motion and then starts the IC engine to provide continuous power. A controller monitors the power demand and actuates different system components accordingly through sensors.

Abstract: Disclosed are a driving system and method of a hybrid electric vehicle. The hybrid electric vehicle driving system includes a generator to generate electric energy from rotating power input thereto, and an electric motor to generate rotating power from electric energy supplied thereto. An auxiliary drive wheel is movably provided to be raised or lowered. When being lowered, the auxiliary drive wheel is rotated in contact with the ground surface, to provide the generator with rotating power generated upon rotation thereof. A power distributor is provided to distribute the rotating power generated from the electric motor or auxiliary drive wheel, so as to provide the generator with regenerative energy, or to provide a drive wheel with rotating power. A control unit controls distribution of the rotating power by controlling the supply of electric current to the power distributor.

Abstract: A hydraulic energy storage system (comprising a hydraulic pump/motor, a high pressure hydraulic accumulator, a low pressure hydraulic accumulator/reservoir, and interconnecting hydraulic lines) is incorporated into a EV, HEV, or PHEV to provide hydraulic regenerative braking and propulsive assistance for the vehicle. Implementation of the low cost and long-lasting hydraulic energy storage system in the vehicle, together with the electric energy storage system (comprising a motor/generator and battery pack) of the vehicle, allows significantly reduced demands and higher operating efficiencies for the battery pack, thereby facilitating a more cost-effective, efficient and/or durable overall energy storage system for the vehicle.

Abstract: A vehicle power system includes a constant speed internal combustion engine coupled with an electrical generator for powering an electric motor coupled to the vehicle drive train. An air assist system also coupled to the drive train supplements the electric motor. The air assist system includes an air fan powered by diverted air flow during vehicle travel and by an engine driven air compressor during low vehicle speeds.

Abstract: The invention relates to a rock drilling rig and a method for downhill driving of a rock drilling rig. The rock drilling rig comprises electric drive equipment, the drive motor of which serves as a primary brake in long-term downhill driving. The drive motor thus converts kinetic energy into electric energy, with which an energy storage is charged. To consume surplus electric energy, a hydraulic system or a compressed air system is turned on. A hydraulic pump and a compressor (54) are driven by an electric motor.

Abstract: An electric vehicle comprising a drive wheel which is driven by a traction electric motor, a brake command device, a brake releasing unit, a brake shaft, a friction plate, and a braking spring. The brake shaft is rotatable in a brake realizing direction which is one direction by an operation of the brake command device, and is rotatable in a brake releasing direction which is the other direction by driving of the brake releasing unit. The friction plate is operatively connected to the traction electric motor, and is frictionally braked when the brake shaft is rotated in the brake realizing direction. The braking spring applies an elastic force to the brake shaft in a direction to rotate the brake shaft in the brake realizing direction.

Abstract: A control system for a transmission of a vehicle including an engine includes a deceleration fuel cutoff (DFCO) module and an accumulator module. The DFCO module initiates a DECO period of engine operation. The accumulator module increases a working pressure of a transmission accumulator in response to a start of the DFCO period. A method for controlling a transmission of a vehicle including an engine includes initiating a DECO period of engine operation, and increasing a working pressure of a transmission accumulator in response to a start of the DFCO period.

Abstract: Regenerative shock absorber. A piston is disposed for reciprocating motion within a cylinder as a vehicle's suspension system deflects. Hydraulic fluid passes through an hydraulic motor to turn its shaft. The hydraulic motor shaft is connected to an electric generator to generate electricity. Flow characteristics of hydraulic circuits are selected to provide suspension system damping for appropriate wheel control.

Abstract: A power take-off (PTO) is used to selectively run a secondary device. The PTO includes a clutch assembly having first and second clutch members that are selectively engaged with each other to drive the secondary device. The first clutch member is associated with a driving input and rotates at an input speed. An accumulator is in power communication with the secondary device and is used to provide power to temporarily drive the second clutch member via the secondary device such that a speed of the second clutch member can be synchronized with the input speed for clutch engagement.

Abstract: A working machine including an internal combustion engine for supplying torque to the driving wheels of the working machine, and a transmission line arranged between the internal combustion engine and the driving wheels for transmitting torque from the internal combustion engine to the driving wheels. The working machine further including at least one hydraulic pump in a hydraulic system for moving an implement arranged on the working machine and/or steering the working machine. The transmission line includes at least one electric machine for driving or braking the driving wheels, and/or for generating electric power for the at least one hydraulic pump.

Abstract: A power generation system has at least one wheel. A trailing arm is pivotably coupled to an undercarriage of a vehicle for converting rotational energy generated by the at least one wheel to electrical energy. A transformer is coupled to the trailing arm. An electric refrigeration unit is coupled to the transformer.

Abstract: A drive arrangement suitable for driving a final drive comprises a first drive means and a power-splitting gear arrangement. A first hydraulic mechanism is operable either as a pump or a motor. The first hydraulic mechanism is capable of being driven from the first drive means or from the final drive or both concurrently, acting through the gear arrangement. The final drive is drivable through the gear arrangement from the first drive means or the first hydraulic mechanism or both concurrently.

Abstract: A mechanical compressor system of potential energy storage for the electric energy generation for electric vehicles and/or with compressed air motor, without withdrawing power to the engine, which allows you as the vehicle travels through irregular terrain: a. take advantage of the vehicle weight to generate startup rpm from generator, both at the ascent and descent of the rack getting the same rpm output of gearbox thus increasing the rpm output of the generator; b. compress air more quickly to have rings of tightness in its cylinder piston which allows to accumulate air compressed by storage tanks through taking advantage of the weight of the vehicle in motion; c. take advantage of the pressure surplus accumulated in the main compressed air storage tank and redirect to the compressed air auxiliary storage tank and after certain pressure, release it into the turbine of the generator in motion and accelerating the movement to generate electricity.

Abstract: A method for operating a hybrid drive of a motor vehicle in particular. An internal combustion engine is connected to a generator via a force-conducting connection. In a learning mode, the generator is operated as a motor and drives the internal combustion engine. In this learning mode, a so-called zero quantity calibration is performed.

Abstract: A vehicle including an energy stocking mechanism having an elastic member connected to the driving wheel of the vehicle so that power of the driving wheel is stocked as elastic force in the elastic member and the stocked elastic force is output as power to the driving wheel, and an output limiter that holds the energy stocking mechanism when the elastic force is stocked in the elastic member and releases the holding of the energy stocking mechanism to output the elastic force when the vehicle starts running. A power stocking source for stocking elastic force into the energy stocking mechanism is installed in the vehicle or a station at which the vehicle stops, and connected to the energy stocking mechanism so that power from the power stocking source is applied to the energy stocking mechanism and stocked as the elastic force in the energy stocking mechanism.

Abstract: A system and method of dithering speed and/or torque for shifting a transmission of a vehicle having an engine, a reversible, variable displacement hydraulic motor/pump which can be driven by the engine, a hydraulic accumulator supplied by said motor/pump, and at least one reversible hydraulic driving motor for propelling the vehicle supplied with fluid by the hydraulic accumulator and/or by said motor/pump operating as a pump. A transmission unit connects the engine with the variable displacement hydraulic motor/pump during a first mode of operation (city mode) and connects the engine to a vehicle drive wheel during a second mode of operation. The system utilizes stored hydraulic energy to dither the output of the driving motor in order to achieve quick and smooth shifts between city and highway mode, or between various ranges within the city mode.

Abstract: A hydraulic energy storage system (comprising a hydraulic pump/motor, a high pressure hydraulic accumulator, a low pressure hydraulic accumulator/reservoir, and interconnecting hydraulic lines) is incorporated into a EV, HEV, or PHEV to provide hydraulic regenerative braking and propulsive assistance for the vehicle. Implementation of the low cost and long-lasting hydraulic energy storage system in the vehicle, together with the electric energy storage system (comprising a motor/generator and battery pack) of the vehicle, allows significantly reduced demands and higher operating efficiencies for the battery pack, thereby facilitating a more cost-effective, efficient and/or durable overall energy storage system for the vehicle.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to wind powered apparatus for recharging batteries in an electric powered vehicle, the system includes at least one generator adapted to alternately recharge batteries that supply power to the vehicle, and at least one windmill with turbine blades that automatically adjust blade pitch and operate the generator. Each adjusting turbine blade includes at least one fluid handling system that contains a non-Newtonian pseudoplastic fluid, the handling system including means to reposition the non-Newtonian pseudoplastic fluid between a first location and a second location within the fluid handling system in response to a fluid viscosity is changed by shear created from blade rotation, the blade pitch changed by a shift in blade center of gravity from the repositioned fluid.

Abstract: Disclosed is a tractor-trailer including a tractor having a lower tractor duct that receives first air from a front of the tractor and channels the first air through a center area of the tractor and down between a set of rear wheels, a trailer having a lower trailer duct positioned below a cargo space and that channels the first air in the lower trailer duct between each set of trailer rear wheels and a lower articulation duct positioned near the set of rear wheels in the tractor that receives air from the lower tractor duct and communicates air to the lower trailer duct. An upper duct is also provided with an articulation duct that channels air through a ductwork at the top of the trailer and tractor. A louver system at the rear of the trailer enables the air in each duct to be channeled and pulled out of the respective duct in such a manner as to reduce drag and eddy currents using the vacuum at the rear of the trailer.

Abstract: The disclosed vehicle has posture control of an inverted pendulum which provides good riding comfort. A balancer target position ?* (calculated value) is determined according to target acceleration ?* indicated by an occupant. Driving thrust SB of a balancer 134 is determined by state feedback control so that a current balance position ? (measured value) becomes closer to the determined balancer target position ?*, and the balancer 134 is driven. An output ?W of a driving wheel actuator 52 is determined from the current balancer position ? (measured value) resulting from driving of the balancer 134. Since a driving torque is determined from an actual position of the balancer 134, stable upright posture control can be implemented even in a transient state which lasts until the balancer 134 reaches the target position.

Abstract: A system and method for powering of a vehicle is disclosed. In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, a powering assembly may include an axle, a wheel coupled to the axle, and at least one secondary coil winding affixed to the wheel. The wheel may be configured to rotate about the axle in a plane substantially perpendicular to an axis of the axle. The at least one secondary coil may be configured such that when the wheel is proximate to an embedded conductor embedded in a roadway and carrying a first electrical current, a magnetic field induced by the first electrical current induces a second electrical current in the at least one secondary coil winding.

Abstract: A wind-powered pneumatic engine including one or more impeller chambers and one or more impellers disposed in the impeller chambers is provided. One or more air inlets for receiving external wind resistance airflow are disposed on the impeller chambers, and the external wind resistance airflow entering the air inlets drives the impellers to operate to generate power output. The wind-powered pneumatic engine further includes an air-jet system for jetting HPCA into the impeller chambers, and the internal high-pressure compressed air jetted by the air-jet system in conjunction with the external wind resistance airflow entering the air inlets drives the impellers to operate to generate power output. In the present invention, the external resistance airflow around a motor vehicle moving at a speed is converted into power for use, which greatly reduces energy consumption and improves the moving speed of a motor vehicle. A motor vehicle equipped with wind-powered pneumatic engine is also provided.

Abstract: A pneumatic hybrid turbo transmission for reduced energy consumption is disclosed. A pneumatic hybrid turbo transmission configured as a multi-purpose unit (MPU). The MPU recovers energy from the cooling system, exhaust system, ram pressure and the breaking system. The MPU unit is an automatic transmission, supercharger, air compressor for other uses, and starter for the engine using a multi-purpose unit that will eliminate the need for a torque converter or clutch, flywheel, catalytic converter, starter and supercharger. The MPU reduces pollution to near zero and reduces the aerodynamic drag coefficient on the vehicle. The MPU uses two or more in-line compressors to transfer power from the power source, such as an internal combustion engine (ICE) to a turbine or multi-stage turbine that acts as an automatic transmission. The pneumatic hybrid turbo transmission system uses plug-in power as a second source of power.

Abstract: A wheel assembly for a vehicle may include a rim and an energy recovery system. The energy recovery system may include a flywheel and an infinitely variable transmission (IVT). The flywheel may be concentric with the rim and operable to rotate relative to the rim. The IVT may be positioned within the flywheel and couple the rim to the flywheel. When the vehicle is decelerating and an angular velocity of the rim is greater than an angular velocity of the flywheel, kinetic energy of the rim may be imparted to the flywheel and stored as mechanical potential energy thereby providing a braking force to the vehicle. Alternatively, when the vehicle is accelerating and the angular velocity of the rim is less than the angular velocity of the flywheel, the mechanical potential energy of the flywheel may be imparted to the wheel thereby providing an accelerating force to the vehicle.

Abstract: An energy-producing system comprising an axle configured to be driven by an electric vehicle's wheels when in motion. The axle supports a series of wind-catching cups contained within an aerodynamic housing configured to direct air to the cups while also increasing the air speed. During vehicle motion, the cups are acted upon by rushing air causing the rotation of the axle such that the rotation may be transferred into energy via a generator/alternator linked thereto. A series of similarly polarized magnets integrated on said cups and proximate thereto further maintain the axle in motion during short vehicle stops. The system extends the life of the batteries between charges as well the distance the vehicle can travel between charges.

Abstract: A system and method for powering of a vehicle is disclosed. In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, a powering assembly may a carrier having one or more structural elements, an axle coupled to the carrier, a wheel coupled to the axle and configured to rotate about the axle in a plane substantially perpendicular to an axis of the axle and substantially linear rod mechanically coupled to the carrier such that the longitudinal axis of the rod is perpendicular to the axis of the axle. A secondary coil winding may be affixed to the rod and configured such that when the rod is proximate to an embedded conductor embedded in a roadway and carrying a first electrical current, a magnetic field induced by the first electrical current induces a second electrical current in the secondary coil winding.

Abstract: A system and related method for a regenerative braking system on a towed vehicle, such as a trailer or semi-trailer. The system provides power and braking to the respective trailer wheels, as needed, to help stabilize the trailer. Power is regenerated during braking. While batteries may be used to store the energy, the system also may use capacitive storage units, which charge and discharge large amounts of energy at a fast rate. A multiple-axis sensor system in conjunction with wheel sensors, load sensors, and proportional control of the brakes and motor power to the axles and wheels, is used to achieve superior load stabilization. The invention can be easily retrofit into new or used trailers, and is self-contained with low maintenance.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to an energy storage system comprised of a heat block having a relatively high specific energy capacity. The heat block can be used, for example, with a regenerative braking system for gas turbine powered vehicles to improve fuel efficiency.

Abstract: The Harmonic Accumulation and Relative Transference of Kinetic Energy method does not transmit, but rather, transfers torque/energy from a power source to a driven system of higher rotational speed through the use of an oscillating flywheel and a potential energy storage device, for example, a torsion spring The power source adds energy to the oscillating flywheel by applying an impulse torque to the flywheel just as the flywheel begins to start rotating, and then transfers that energy to the driven system when the flywheel's speed (which may be its highest rotational speed) matches that of the driven system's rotational speed and direction. Thus, the energy is transferred when the flywheel and the driven system are at 0 rpm “relative” to each other. Accordingly, the impulse torques may be applied using principles of electric motors.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present technology are directed toward a kinetic energy storage system for capturing kinetic energy of a vehicle, converting the captured kinetic energy into another form, and storing the converted energy in a portable energy storage device.

Abstract: The inventive concept is directed fifth wheel assembly having a tire thereon that makes contact with the ground the vehicle is traveling on. The fifth wheel is in driving contact with a generator located on said fifth wheel assembly to produce an electric current that is fed by way of a computer controlled system to a battery located on the vehicle. The frame assembly that supports the fifth wheel is hinged in a predetermined location on the vehicle and has a biasing system that biasses the fifth wheel downwardly to assure a continued contact of the fifth wheel with the ground the vehicle is traveling on. The fifth wheel can be mounted on various locations on the vehicle and under it and behind it. When behind the vehicle, the fifth wheel can be mounted on a small trailer which is pulled by a hitch on the vehicle. When mounted under the vehicle, the panel of the vehicle could be modified with an upwardly directed well to receive the tire when not in use.

Abstract: A regenerative braking system for a vehicle, motorized or otherwise, that captures and stores the braking energy of the vehicle through the mechanical compression of a volume of pressurized gas contained in one or more onboard gas springs. This stored energy can be selectively released by the driver to assist with the acceleration of the vehicle from a stopped or moving condition. The compression of the volume of gas is accomplished by the insertion of a plunger into the cylinder of a gas spring by a mechanical spooling cable arrangement powered by the rotative braking of the vehicle. The release of the stored energy is accomplished by the withdrawal of the piston which acts through the spooling cable arrangement to transmit torque to the vehicle's drive train. The system can be implemented in various motorized or non-motorized vehicles.

Abstract: A hydraulic machine includes first and second opposing motors. Displacement of the first and second motors is controlled such that while the sum of the displacements of the first and second motors is below a threshold, the displacement of the first motor is substantially equal to the sum, and the displacement of the second motor is substantially equal to zero. While the sum of the displacements is above the threshold, the displacement of the first motor may be substantially equal to the displacement of the second motor, either as a displacement percentage or as a displacement volume. The first motor may be equal in capacity, or smaller than the second motor.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method and apparatus for charging electrically powered devices. In accordance with the invention, the device is powered by two storage or charge receiving devices. One of these devices is capable of receiving a substantial charge very rapidly while the other device requires a longer time to receive a charge. The advantage is that the powered device can be used almost instantly and continually while at the same time rebuilding electrical charge. The present invention further relates to a system for protecting the charging device from being damaged from an electrical surge, such as from a lightening strike.

Abstract: A wheel assembly for a vehicle includes a rim and an energy recovery system. The energy recovery system includes a flywheel, a continuously variable planetary (CVP), a first planetary gear set, and a second planetary gear set. The flywheel is substantially concentric with the rim and operable to rotate relative to the rim. The CVP is positioned within the flywheel and is operable to transmit rotational motion between the flywheel and the rim. The first planetary gear set is rotationally coupled to the rim and the CVP such that rotational motion transmitted between the CVP and the rim is transmitted through the first planetary gear set. The second planetary gear set is rotationally coupled to the CVP, the rim and the flywheel such that rotational motion transmitted between the CVP, the rim and the flywheel is transmitted through the second planetary gear set.

Abstract: A vehicle includes an internal combustion engine configured to power a hydraulic pump to pressurize hydraulic fluid, which is used to power the vehicle directly or is stored in an accumulator. A drive module, including a hydraulic pump/motor and a multi-speed mechanical transmission, is operatively coupled to drive wheels of the vehicle to provide motive power to the vehicle. The drive module can also include a second hydraulic motor (or multiple hydraulic motors) configured to provide motive power. The transmission is configured to progress through its gears at ratio shifts of no less than 2:1 between adjacent gear positions. The transmission is configured to place the hydraulic motor in neutral during some portions of vehicle operation, and to engage the motor during other portions of vehicle operation.

Abstract: A method for controlling a powertrain for an automotive vehicle includes determining a desired flywheel torque, determining, with reference to the desired flywheel torque, a desired torque capacity torque of a clutch through which torque is transmitted between the flywheel and wheels of the vehicle, operating the clutch to produce the desired clutch torque capacity, determining a slip error across the clutch, and changing a gear ratio of a continuously variable transmission located in a drive path between the clutch and said wheels to a gear ratio that reduces the slip error.

Abstract: A hydraulic regenerative braking system and method for a vehicle include a variable displacement hydraulic machine operable as a pump or a motor (22). The hydraulic machine facilitates connections between some of its piston cylinders (50, 52) and a low pressure source (32), and some other of its piston cylinders (50, 52) and a high pressure source (28). The cylinders are alternately connected to the high and low pressure sources such that a pressure transition occurs during each piston stroke. By controlling where in a piston stroke the transitions occur, the power of the hydraulic machine can be modulated. The hydraulic machine is configured to effect the pressure transitions in only a portion of the cylinders at one time. This can be accomplished by asymmetrically configuring cam lobes (86, 88, 90) and fluid ports (74, 76, 78, 80, 82, 84). Staggering the pressure transitions helps to inhibit flow disturbances in the machine when it is operating at less than full displacement.

Abstract: A drivetrain for a hybrid vehicle includes an internal combustion engine, a transmission and electric machine, and an electrical energy store. The electric machine is usable as a generator for charging the electrical energy store and/or as a motor while discharging the electrical energy store. The electrical energy store is implemented as a flywheel mass accumulator having an assigned second electric machine. The flywheel mass accumulator is able to be mechanically coupled to the internal combustion engine via a separate clutch, and thus also is mechanically chargeable and dischargeable.

Abstract: An electronic system in a vehicle includes a motor, a charger, a battery pack, and a bus. The motor drives wheels and propellers of the vehicle. The charger generates charging power according to a control signal. The battery pack coupled to the charger and the motor is operable for generating the control signal based upon a status of each cell of multiple cells in the battery pack, for receiving the charging power via a charging path when the vehicle is stalled, and for powering the motor via a discharging path when the vehicle is started. The bus coupled to the charger and the battery pack is operable for transmitting the control signal from the battery pack to the charger.