Abstract: The ATV transmission includes an epicyclic arrangement, which serves as a drive-differential. One road wheel is geared to the planet-carrier or spider, and the other to the ring gear, while the engine drives the sun. An idler-gear between the ring and its road wheel means that the ring and the spider rotate in opposite senses, whereby a large gear ratio between the sun and the road wheels can be provided. Steering of the vehicle is provided, by driving the road wheels at different speeds. This is accomplished using a steer-differential, which is identical to the drive-differential; rotating the sun of the steer-differential imposes a corresponding differential speed on the road wheels.

Abstract: A method of determining a vehicle steering wheel angle by receiving at least one steering sensor output from at least one steering sensor. The method then receives a vehicle speed signal. A centered steering angle is determined based on the received vehicle speed signal and the steering sensor output.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling straight line travel of a tracked machine having a left track and a right track. The method and apparatus includes initiating a straight line travel mode of the tracked machine, determining an initial heading angle of a heading sensor located on the tracked machine, sensing a deviation in heading angle from the initial heading angle as the tracked machine travels, determining a heading angle error in response to the deviation in heading angle, and adjusting the speed of at least one of the left and right tracks to compensate for the heading angle error.

Abstract: A vehicle including a load frame, a drive assembly, and a pivot link assembly. The load frame includes castor wheels to rollingly support the load frame on a support surface. The drive assembly includes a drive frame, a drive wheel, and a rigid castor wheel wherein the drive wheel and rigid castor wheel are each mounted to the drive frame. The pivot link assembly couples the drive frame to the load frame and permits the drive frame to move vertically and angularly relative to the load frame.

Abstract: In a steering device for vehicle, the movement of a steering actuator, which is driven in accordance with the rotating operation of an operating member, is transmitted to the vehicle wheels such that the steering angle changes without mechanically coupling the operating member to the wheels. A target yaw rate, which accords with a load torque, that is sum of the control torque generated by an operating actuator and driver operating torque, and an operating angle of the operating member resulting from the functioning of this load torque, are computed. The steering actuator is controlled such that the vehicle yaw rate follows the target yaw rate. The operating actuator is controlled such that the operating angle follows a target operating angle of the operating member corresponding to a behavior index value comprising at least yaw rate of the vehicle.

Abstract: A drive mechanism for driving a vehicle, comprising a pair of drive wheels each having a drive shaft, a source of hydraulic oil under pressure on the vehicle and controlled by a control unit for delivering hydraulic oil in two directions, wherein the drive shafts of the pair of wheels are each driven by a high torque, low speed hydraulic motor or pump. The principal components of the motors include a crank shaft mounted in the housing for connection to the drive shafts of the wheels. At least two cylinder and piston assemblies are attached to the crank shaft for rotation of the crank shaft upon movement of the pistons between a minimum and maximum point of travel in the cylinders to thereby impart motion to the wheel drive shaft. A valve assembly provides hydraulic fluid to the cylinders to sequentially move the pistons in the desired direction of piston travel. The two motors are mounted on the vehicle to form a transaxle unit, and controls permit simultaneous or independent operation of the two motors.

Abstract: A steering column differential angle position sensor includes an upper flux shutter and a lower flux shutter, both of which form a plurality of similarly shaped openings. Receiver and transmitter coils are coaxially aligned with the shutters. The transmitter coil provides a magnetic field around the shutters, with changes in the field being sensed by the receiver coil upon differential motion of the flux shutters. Using the output of the receiver coil, the torque on a steering column that is mechanically coupled to the shutters can be obtained.

Abstract: A clutch/brake assembly for a vehicle, such as a lawn tractor, includes left and right drums rotatable with left and right drive axles of the vehicle. The assembly is responsive to vehicle steering input to resist rotation of one drum and, thereby, to slow the drive wheel associated with the one drum. Further steering input provides braking capabilities. The assembly has no differential action. The housing for the assembly is a split housing having a plurality of bearing supports aligned along transverse axes. On each one of the split housing pieces, all the bearing support surfaces are finished simultaneously with one punching operation.

Abstract: A motorized scooter is disclosed that comprises a steering shaft mounted for rotation about its axis. A tiller is connected to said steering shaft to rotate said steering shaft, and pivotable relative to said steering shaft. A pivot block is mounted on the free end of said steering shaft, a pair of forks on said tiller straddle the pivot block, and a pivot pin passes through the forks and the pivot block. The pivot block has a pair of lubricating plates of low-friction material on either side of it, so that the forks rest on said lubricating plates, to facilitate pivoting of said steering column. A strut of variable length is connected to the tiller and to said steering shaft so that pivoting of the tiller requires a change in the length of said strut. The strut comprises an inner shaft and an outer sleeve movable along said shaft to vary the length of said strut.

Abstract: An omnidirectional vehicle includes a body, and a plurality of units, each unit including a bearing rotatably supporting a steering shaft around a vertical axis with a rotor plate, and a driving wheel axially supported by a supporter fixed to the rotor plate. The driving wheel is positioned at a location spaced apart for a first offset distance from the steering shaft in the rolling direction of the driving wheel and spaced apart for a second offset distance from the steering shaft in the direction perpendicular to the rolling direction of the driving wheel. A first motor is fixed to the body for driving the steering shaft, and a second motor is fixed to the body for rotating the driving wheel. In the holonomic omnidirectional vehicle, the control system and the driving system are simplified, and interference therebetween is prevented. Also, it is possible to reduce the capacities of the actuators, the electric power for driving the vehicle and the manufacturing costs.

Abstract: A vehicle is installed with an integral transaxle apparatus constructed so that a single housing contains left and right axles, a driving hydrostatic transmission (HST) having a variable displacement first hydraulic pump and a first hydraulic motor fluidly connected with each other, a steering HST having a variable displacement second hydraulic pump and a variable displacement second hydraulic motor fluidly connected with each other, and a differential unit differentially connecting the axles with each other so as to be driven regularly or reversely by the output of the driving HST and to differentially drive the axles while receiving the output of the steering HST, wherein the first hydraulic pump receives power of a prime mover and has a first movable swash plate, and the second hydraulic pump receives power of the prime mover independently of the first hydraulic pump and has a second movable swash plate.

Abstract: A hydraulic power steering apparatus for a vehicle is provided with a main control valve in which a valve opening degree is controlled on the basis of a relative movement between an input shaft interlocking with a steering wheel and an output shaft interlocking with a steering mechanism for turning a steered wheel, a power cylinder mechanism generating a steering assist force, a pump apparatus discharging a fixed flow amount of working oil, a first flow passage including a supply passage communicated with the main control valve, and a control unit controlling an assist control valve. The main control valve controls a supply amount of the working oil in the first flow passage to the power steering apparatus, and the assist control valve controlling a flow amount of a part of the working oil discharged from the pump apparatus is controlled to a set valve opening degree set on the basis of a vehicle speed and an oil pressure of the working oil in the first flow passage, by the control unit.

Abstract: A zero-turning radius self-propelled power lawn mower includes a standing platform structure for supporting a standing operator during mower operation. The mower has a combination parking brake and pump lockout structure which, when actuated, simultaneously applies a braking force to rear drive wheels and prevents hydro pumps from being moved from their neutral positions. The mower also includes a biasing system for automatically returning hand control levers to their neutral positions when they are not being manipulated by an operator. Unique cutter deck structure, caster structure, grass catcher structure, and steering control levers are also provided.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for controlling the resistance to the movement of a steering shaft that is operable to move as a function of an operator input. A position sensor is coupled with the steering shaft and transmits a shaft position signal as a function of the position of the steering shaft. A processing device is coupled with the position sensor to receive the shaft position signal and transmits a resistance signal as a function of the shaft position signal. A resistance device is coupled with the processing device to receive the resistance signal and is coupled with the steering shaft, the resistance device resists the movement of the steering shaft as a function of the resistance signal.

Abstract: The transformable vehicle comprises a central chassis assembly having first and second distal ends with an axis passing therebetween, a first wheel assembly mounted to the first distal end, and a second wheel assembly mounted to second distal end. A multifunction transformable vehicle comprising at least two configurational states: a stowed state and a transformed state. In the stowed state, the transformable vehicle comprises a compact structure suitable for storage, transport or deployment. During transition from the stowed state to the transformed state, the first and second wheel assemblies move longitudinally outward along the axis to reveal the central chassis assembly.

Abstract: A vehicle such as a lawn and garden tractor is adapted to utilize conventional steering and propel controls with a drive and steer type transmission. The transmission permits the vehicle to be driven and steered through its rear drive wheels, thereby permitting it to turn about one wheel and/or about an axis between its wheels. Front castered wheels enable the vehicle to easily steered by the drive wheels. A conventional type steering wheel is provided with a mechanical linkage extending between it and the transmission. Conventional type controls are also provided to propel or power the vehicle in a forward or rearward direction and within a range of speeds. With conventional type steering and propel controls adapted to be utilized with the drive and steer type transmission, operation of spin-turn vehicles is made simple and more efficient as well as reducing the time required to learn to operate and maneuver the vehicle.

Abstract: Turning radius is calculated from steering angles of steering-wheels (2, 3) and articulation angles of respective frames, and the steering-wheels (2, 3) are automatically rotated faster than rear-wheels (4, 5) based on the turning radius, the revolution number of the rear-wheels (4, 5), engine speed of an engine (6) and a speed range of hydraulic motors (14, 15), so that conventional trouble for manipulating operation lever etc. while turning a motor grader (1) and skill-requiring work for adjusting the revolution number of the steering-wheels (2, 3) in accordance with the revolution number of the rear-wheels (4, 5) can be eliminated, thereby easily and accurately controlling the revolution number of the steering-wheels (2, 3) and securely preventing tight-corner braking phenomenon.

Abstract: An omni direction vehicle with a frame having a round surface about its perimeter with no apparatus mounted on the frame extending beyond the perimeter. Two independent drive wheels located on an axis through the center of the frame are mounted at the same distance from a central vertical axis through the frame. Each wheel is powered independently of the other and can rotate at variable speeds in either direction. The vehicle is capable of movement in any direction by rotating the axis of the drive wheels to a position which is perpendicular to the desired direction of travel. The vehicle can spin about its vertical axis such that the axis of the drive wheels can be oriented at any direction without changing the original footprint of the space that the frame occupies over the ground. Thus, the vehicle requires a zero turning radius and requires only the space it occupies to change its forward orientation.

Abstract: In a four wheel steering vehicle, the rear wheels are steered so as to reduce a magnitude of the vehicle body side slip angular speed. Thus, whenever there is a rise in the vehicle body side slip angle which is directed outward with respect to the turning circle of the vehicle at an early stage of turning operation, the rear wheels are steered in opposite sense to the front wheel steering angle. Therefore, the vehicle body side slip angle is at least partly canceled, and this in turn increases the yaw moment and produces a sharp heading response. As the vehicle continues the turning operation, the rear wheels are steered in the same phase as the front wheels, thereby offsetting the tendency of the vehicle to go into a spin. When the vehicle is turning at a steady rate without incurring any change in the vehicle body side slip angle, the rear wheels are not steered, and the vehicle essentially behaves as if it were a front wheel steering vehicle.

Abstract: A vehicle position calculation unit (1) calculates a position of a vehicle on a plan view, and an estimate locus calculation unit (2) calculates an estimate movement locus of a vehicle body when the vehicle is moved at a maximum steering angle with respect to the vehicle position, and a display unit (3) displays the vehicle position calculated by the vehicle position calculation unit (1) together with the estimate locus of the vehicle body calculated by the estimate locus calculation unit (2). Thus, even a beginner driver of the vehicle can easily and quickly park the vehicle with accuracy and safety while monitoring the estimate movement locus of the vehicle on the display screen.

Abstract: A working vehicle such as a mobile agricultural machine is designed such that it has an improved working efficiency if any spinning turn is not required, and has an improved running property in a wet farm. The vehicle has a pair of right and left crawlers (2), a speed change apparatus (25) for imparting traction force to the crawlers, a speed change lever (73) operable to control the speed change apparatus so as to alter running speed of the vehicle in a step-less manner. The vehicle further has a steering apparatus (28) and a steering wheel (19) operable to control the steering apparatus so as to alter difference in the running speeds between the crawlers (2). The running speed generally determined for each crawler by the speed change lever (73) can be decreased voluntarily and proportionally to an operated angle of the steering wheel (19).

Abstract: A running vehicle comprises a steering operation tool, a pair of running-driving axles, a pair of running wheels drivingly connected with the pair of running-driving axles, a first differential unit interposed between the pair of running-driving axles, a first hydrostatic transmission for transmitting a driving force to the first differential unit, a pair of steering output shafts, a second differential unit interposed between the pair of steering output shafts, a second hydrostatic transmission for transmitting a driving force to the second differential unit. The second hydrostatic transmission drivingly interlocks with the steering operation tool so that the output speed and direction of the second hydraulic transmission is changed by manipulation of the steering operation tool.

Abstract: With a vehicle comprising a motor (5; 12; 20, 21; 32, 33) and exactly two rotatable elements (1, 2; 15; 18, 19; 30, 31) which are in contact with the ground during travelling of the vehicle, the axes of rotation of the two rotatable elements (1, 2; 15; 18, 19; 30, 31) are situated substantially in one line or in one vertical plane, and the vehicle is provided with a frame (3; 11; 17; 29) which is suitable for fastening devices (26-28; 34-36) thereto. The vehicle is simple and compact.

Abstract: With a vehicle comprising a motor (5; 12; 20, 21; 32, 33) and at least one rotatable element (1, 2; 15; 18, 19; 30, 31) which follows the ground, for the purpose of propelling the vehicle, the motor (5; 12; 20, 21; 32, 33) is adapted for influencing the momentary position of the center of gravity of the vehicle relative to the ground in such a manner that the rotatable element (1, 2; 15; 18, 19; 30, 31) performs a rotation under the influence of gravitational force. The vehicle is compact and has a simple driving mechanism.

Abstract: A multi-wheel vehicle provided with at least six running wheels, that is, a pair of first running wheels serving as driving wheels, a pair of second running wheels such as castors disposed before or behind said pair of first running wheels so as to be laterally turned in the traveling direction of said vehicle, and a pair of third running wheels disposed before or behind said first running wheels. The vehicle comprises a prime mover, a speed change operation means, a steering operation means, a transmission drivingly connected with said prime mover, and a pair of running-driving axles onto which said respective first running wheels are attached. The transmission applies composite force of first equal rotational forces in the same directions and second equal rotational forces in opposite directions onto said pair of first running wheels. The speed change operation means is manipulated so as to regulate the direction and magnitude of said first rotational forces.

Abstract: A portable device for connecting to scaffolding and which provides rotary motion to a drive wheel, to move scaffolding in select directions. The device includes a power wheel, rotary driven through a perpendicular or right-angled gear reduction, receiving its rotary force from a drive shaft, and the drive shaft couples with a portable drill, or other tool, that furnishes the rotational force necessary for driving the drive shaft, and its associated drive wheel. The bracket mechanism supporting the portable appliance supports the appliance during its delivery of rotary force to the drive shaft, and its wheel, and likewise, pivotally mounts to an outer support sleeve or tube that furnishes steering, to the drive mechanism, and consequently to the scaffolding, during its power movement.

Abstract: The invention relates to a track and suspension system for an agricultural tractor. Invention consists of an endless rubber track encircling a drive wheel, front and rear idle wheels and a supporting undercarriage. The undercarriage has front and rear suspension arms supporting front and rear idler wheels. Movement of the suspension arms is limited and controlled by a bridge beam and a pair of air springs. The undercarriage also has mid track roller frames whose movement are limited and controlled by a bridge beam.

Abstract: A zero-turning radius self-propelled power lawn mower includes a standing platform structure for supporting a standing operator during mower operation. The mower has a combination parking brake and pump lockout structure which, when actuated, simultaneously applies a braking force to rear drive wheels and prevents hydro pumps from being moved from their neutral positions. The mower also includes a biasing system for automatically returning hand control levers to their neutral positions when they are not being manipulated by an operator. Unique cutter deck structure, caster structure, grass catcher structure, and steering control levers are also provided.

Abstract: A hydrostatic vehicle drive (1) comprises a first hydropump (2) and a second hydropump (3) as well as a first hydromotor (7) and a second hydromotor (12). The hydromotors (7, 12) each drive separate drive lines. During straight-ahead travel operation, the hydropumps (2, 3) and the hydromotors (7, 12) are coupled to one another in a single, closed hydraulic circuit without crossed connections in such a manner that an input connection (6) of the first hydromotor (7) is connected to an output connection (5) of the first hydropump (2) and an input connection (9) of the second hydropump (3) is connected to an output connection (8) of the first hydromotor (7). An input connection (11) of the second hydromotor (12) is connected to an output connection (10) of the second hydropump (3), whilst an input connection (14) of the first hydropump (2) is connected to an output connection (13) of the second hydromotor (12).

Abstract: The ATV transmission includes an epicyclic arrangement, which serves as a drive-differential. One road wheel is geared to the planet-carrier or spider, and the other to the ring gear, while the engine drives the sun. An idler-gear between the ring and its road wheel means that the ring and the spider rotate in opposite senses, whereby a large gear ratio between the sun and the road wheels can be provided. Steering of the vehicle is provided, by driving the road wheels at different speeds. This is accomplished using a steer-differential, which is identical to the drive-differential; rotating the sun of the steer-differential imposes a corresponding differential speed on the road wheels.

Abstract: The entire right, title and interest in and to this application and all subject matter disclosed and/or claimed therein, including any and all divisions, continuations, reissues, etc., thereof are, effective as of the date of execution of this application, assigned, transferred, sold and set over by the applicant(s) named herein to Deere & Company, a Delaware corporation having offices at Moline, Ill. 61265, U.S.A., together with all rights to file, and to claim priorities in connection with, corresponding patent applications in any and all foreign countries in the name of Deere & Company or otherwise.

Abstract: A steering linkage coupled with a drive and steer transmission allows a steering wheel to be turned a maximum of between ninety and one-hundred-eighty degrees from a neutral straight forward position, and is adjustable for altering the maximum degree to which the steering wheel is turnable from the neutral forward position.

Abstract: An improved connection between articulated bodies for agile vehicles is disclosed. It features independent bodies which are connected to each other with concentric sleeves serving as the pivot to allow the bodies to rotate in a plane parallel to the direction of forward movement. The concentric bushings are preferably made of graphite/epoxy and secured to the chassis body sidewalls. Each of the body segments remains uninterrupted by the bushings which are principally disposed between the facing interior sides of the two bodies. The bearing assembly, which is preferably graphite/epoxy, is self-lubricating as it wears over time. Lateral movement is easily controlled, and relative rotation is also controlled by a collar which serves a dual function to control lateral movement of the bodies as well as relative rotation.

Abstract: A device for a differential gear for vehicles having a driving mechanism capable of driving the vehicle and a steering mechanism capable of changing the direction of the vehicle, which differential gear has an input driving shaft, two output shafts connected to the vehicle's driving mechanism, at least one hydraulic pump capable of producing a hydraulic flow, and at least one hydraulic motor communicating with the hydraulic pump and arranged to the differential gear, capable of achieving a difference in rotational speed between the output shafts. The device is capable of regulating the hydraulic flow between the hydraulic pump and the hydraulic motor depending on the steering direction of the steering mechanism and the velocity of the vehicle.

Abstract: A control apparatus for an electric power steering system ensures convergence of a yaw rate of a vehicle without discomforting a driver, thus improving steerage of the vehicle. The control apparatus controls a motor that provides a steering mechanism with a steering assist force based on a current control value. The current control value is computed from a steering assist command value, which is computed based on a steering torque generated on a steering shaft, and from a motor current value. In the control apparatus, a rate of change in the yaw rate of the vehicle is detected, based on which damping is applied on the yaw rate.

Abstract: A supplemental steering system is provided for a machine having first and second brakes actuable for slowing rotation of first and second drive outputs or wheels, a brake actuator, and a main or primary steering system. The brake actuator is connected with a first port and a second port of a supplemental steering control valve having a first chamber and a second chamber. The first port communicates with the first chamber and the second port communicates with the second chamber. The supplemental steering control valve further includes a piston located in the bore connected to a steering input and having a neutral position generally equidistant between the first and second chambers. First and second brake ports respectively communicate the first and second chambers with the first brake.

Abstract: A steering mechanism that controls a drive and steer transmission and that causes the transmission to execute turns in the direction a steering wheel is turned when operating in either the forward or reverse direction of travel. In response to operator engagement of a drive control, an actuation linkage shifts an elongate member within a slot formed in a cam member that pivots in response to turning of a steering wheel. Shifting of the rod member between two positions on either side of the cam member pivot axis causes the drive and steer transmission to steer the vehicle in the desired direction when the vehicle is traveling in both forward and reverse.

Abstract: A four-wheel hydraulic drive system for a working vehicle comprising a hydraulic pump, a first hydraulic motor fluidly connected with said hydraulic pump, a pair of first driving wheels driven by said first hydraulic motor, a second hydraulic motor fluidly connected with said hydraulic pump, and a pair of second driving wheels driven by said second hydraulic motor, wherein the drive mode of said vehicle can be switched between a first four-wheel drive mode for substantially equaling the torque of said second hydraulic motor to that of said first hydraulic motor and a second four-wheel drive mode for making the torque of said second hydraulic motor smaller than that of first hydraulic motor.