Brake For Sun And Orbit Patents (Class 475/282)
  • Patent number: 7798934
    Abstract: The transmission has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide eight forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. The transmission includes four planetary gear sets having five torque-transmitting devices, three fixed interconnections and a grounded member. The powertrain includes an engine and torque converter that is continuously connected to at least one of the planetary gear members and an output member that is continuously connected with another one of the planetary gear members. The five torque-transmitting devices provide interconnections between various gear members, and with the transmission housing, and are operated in combinations of three to establish at least eight forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: James M. Hart, Andrew W. Phillips, Clinton E. Carey, Scott H. Wittkopp, Madhusudan Raghavan
  • Patent number: 7794354
    Abstract: A variable speed transmission is disclosed. In one embodiment, a two shaft and two opposing planetary gearset arrangement is utilized. Drive and driven shafts are connected as respective inputs and outputs to opposing planetary gears of the planetary gearsets. Respective sun gears are rotatably coupled to each end of an intermediary shaft which traverses the span between the planetary gearsets. Respective ring gears are meshed to a pair of spur gears coupled to a secondary shaft which also traverses the span. In operation, the coordinated actuation of a pair of clutch-brake assemblies associated with the intermediary and secondary shafts substantially continuously varies the transmission of torque from the drive shaft to the driven shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Inventor: Jeffrey W. Bradshaw
  • Patent number: 7789792
    Abstract: A transmission having input and output shafts, gearsets (RS1-RS4), shafts (1-8) and elements (A-E). Carriers of gearsets (RS4, RS3) are respectively connected to the input and the output forming shafts (1, 2). Sun gears of gearsets (RS1, RS4) are coupled forming shaft (3). The ring gear and a carrier respectively of gearsets (RS1, RS2) form shafts (4, 8). Ring gears of gearsets (RS2, RS4) respectively couple sun gears of gearsets (RS3, RS2) forming shafts (5, 7). A carrier of gearset (RS1) and a ring gear of gearset (RS3) are connected forming shaft (6). In the power flow, elements (A, B) are respectively arranged between shafts (3, 4) and a transmission housing, element (C) between shafts (5, 1), element (D) between shafts (8, 2) or (8, 6), and element (E) between two of shafts (5, 7, 8).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Michael Kamm, Gabor Diosi, Josef Haupt, Gerhard Gumpoltsberger, Peter Ziemer, Martin Brehmer
  • Patent number: 7785227
    Abstract: The transmission has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide eight forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. The transmission includes three planetary gear sets, six torque-transmitting devices, one fixed interconnection and a grounded member. The powertrain includes an engine and torque converter that is continuously connected to one of the planetary gear members and an output member that is continuously connected with another one of the planetary gear members. The six torque-transmitting devices provide interconnections between various gear members, and the transmission housing, and are operated in combinations of three to establish eight forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott H. Wittkopp, Clinton E. Carey, James M. Hart, Andrew W. Phillips, Madhusudan Raghavan
  • Publication number: 20100210404
    Abstract: The transmission has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide at least ten forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. The transmission includes four planetary gear sets, six torque-transmitting devices, and three fixed interconnections. The powertrain includes an engine and torque converter that is continuously connected to one of the planetary gear members and an output member that is continuously connected with another one of the planetary gear members. The six torque-transmitting devices provide interconnections between various gear members and the transmission housing, and are operated in combinations of three to establish at least ten forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2009
    Publication date: August 19, 2010
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Andrew W. Phillips, Scott H. Wittkopp, James M. Hart, Clinton E. Carey
  • Patent number: 7771305
    Abstract: The transmission has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide at least ten forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. The transmission includes four planetary gear sets, six torque-transmitting devices, and two fixed interconnections. The powertrain includes an engine and torque converter that is continuously connected to one of the planetary gear members and an output member that is continuously connected with another one of the planetary gear members. The six torque-transmitting devices provide interconnections between various gear members, the transmission housing and each other, and are operated in combinations of three to establish at least ten forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: James M. Hart, Andrew W. Phillips, Clinton E. Carey, Scott H. Wittkopp
  • Patent number: 7749128
    Abstract: There is provided an automatic transmission comprising a first shaft capable of receiving torque from an engine, and four planetary gear sets arranged coaxially on the first shaft and in series in an axial direction of the first shaft. Each of the four planetary gear sets has a single sun gear and a single ring gear. Further, the automatic transmission comprises an output wheel arranged coaxially on the first shaft, and capable of outputting torque transmitted from the engine through some of the four planetary gear sets. The output wheel is arranged between two of the four planetary gear sets. Accordingly, the noise or vibration from the planetary gear sets in the automatic transmission may be reduced, while the overall length of the first shaft may be made shorter, and the overall size of the automatic transmission may be made smaller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: Mazda Motor Corporation
    Inventors: Shinya Kamada, Takamichi Teraoka, Junichi Doi, Tokimori Saka, Tatsuhiko Iwasaki, Naohiro Sakaue, Tatsutoshi Mizobe, Yoshihiko Fujita, Norio Iwashita, Satoshi Komori, Kazuhiko Ueda, Seiji Esaki
  • Patent number: 7749129
    Abstract: The transmission has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide eight forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. The transmission includes four planetary gear sets having five torque-transmitting mechanisms, three fixed interconnections and a grounded member. The powertrain includes an engine and torque converter that is continuously connected to at least one of the planetary gear members, and an output member that is continuously connected with another one of the planetary gear members. The five torque-transmitting mechanisms provide interconnections between various gear members, and the transmission housing, and are operated in combinations of three to establish at least eight forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott H. Wittkopp, Andrew W. Phillips, Clinton E. Carey, James M. Hart, Madhusudan Raghavan
  • Patent number: 7736263
    Abstract: The transmission has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide nine forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. The transmission includes four planetary gear sets, six torque-transmitting devices and four fixed interconnections. The powertrain includes an engine and torque converter that is continuously connected to one of the planetary gear members and an output member that is continuously connected with another one of the planetary gear members. The six torque-transmitting devices provide interconnections between various gear members, and the transmission housing, and are operated in combinations of three to establish nine forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew W. Phillips, Scott H. Wittkopp, Clinton E. Carey, James M. Hart
  • Patent number: 7717817
    Abstract: The electrically variable transmission family of the present invention provides low-content, low-cost electrically variable transmission mechanisms including first and second differential gear sets, a battery, two electric machines serving interchangeably as motors or generators, four or five selectable torque transmitting devices, and possibly a dog clutch. The selectable torque transmitting devices are engaged to yield an EVT with a continuously variable range of speeds (including reverse) and at least one mechanically fixed forward speed ratio. The torque transmitting devices and the first and second motor/generators are operable to provide five operating modes in the electrically variable transmission, including battery reverse mode, EVT reverse mode, reverse and forward launch modes, continuously variable transmission range mode, and fixed ratio mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Madhusudan Raghavan, Norman K. Bucknor
  • Patent number: 7713161
    Abstract: A transmission having input and output shafts, planetary gearsets (RS1, RS2, RS3, RS4), and additional shafts and shifting elements. A ring gear of set (RS4) and the input shaft define shaft (1). A carrier of (RS3) and the output define shaft (2). The sun gears of (RS1, RS4) define shaft (3). A ring gear of (RS1) forms shaft (4). A ring gear of (RS2) and a sun gear of (RS3) define shaft (5). A carrier of (RS1) and a ring gear of (RS3) form shaft (6). A sun gear of (RS2) and a carrier of (RS4) define shaft (7). A carrier of (RS2) forms shaft (8). A first element (A) couples shaft (3) to the transmission housing. A second element (B) couples shaft (4) to the housing. A third element (C) couples shafts (1, 5) to one another. A fourth element (D) couples shafts (2, 8) or (6, 8) to one another. A fifth element (E) couples shafts (5, 7), (7, 8) or (5, 8) to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Michael Kamm, Gabor Diosi, Josef Haupt, Gerhard Gumpoltsberger, Peter Ziemer, Martin Brehmer
  • Patent number: 7699736
    Abstract: A multi-speed automatic planetary transmission for a motor vehicle having an input shaft (AN), an output shaft (AB), four planetary gearsets (RS1, RS2, RS3, RS4), at least eight rotatable shafts (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8), and five shifting elements (A, B, C, D, E), the selective engagement of which produces different transmission ratios between the input shaft (AN) and the output shaft (AB), such that eight forward gears and at least one reverse gear are possible. Further, it is possible to connect an electric machine (12) as generator and/or drive, to the fifth shaft (5) by means a drive connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Gabor Diosi, Josef Haupt, Peter Ziemer, Pedro Casals, Martin Brehmer
  • Patent number: 7695394
    Abstract: A transmission is provided having an input member, an output member, four planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes first, second and third members. The torque transmitting devices may include clutches and brakes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew W. Phillips, Scott H. Wittkopp, James M. Hart, Clinton E. Carey
  • Patent number: 7682282
    Abstract: A multi-speed transmission has input and output shafts, gearsets (RS1, RS2, RS3, RS4), shafts (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8), and shifting elements (A, B, C, D, E). A carrier of gearset (RS4) and the input shaft couple as shaft (1). A carrier of gearset (RS3) and the output shaft couple as shaft (2). Sun gears of gearsets (RS1, RS4) couple as shaft (3). Ring gears of coupled gearsets (RS1, RS2) respectively form shafts (4, 8). Sun gears of gearsets (RS2, RS3) couple as shaft (5). A carrier of gearset (RS1) and a ring gear of gearset (RS3) couple as shaft (6). A carrier of gearset (RS2) and a ring gear of gearset (RS4) couple as shaft (7). Arranged within the power flow: elements (A, B) are respectively between shaft (3, 4) and a transmission housing; element (C) between shafts (1, 5); element (D) between either shafts (2, 8) or (6,8); element (E) between two of shafts (5, 7, 8).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Michael Kamm, Gabor Diosi, Josef Haupt, Gerhard Gumpoltsberger, Peter Ziemer, Martin Brehmer
  • Patent number: 7651431
    Abstract: The transmission has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide ten forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. The transmission includes four planetary gear sets, six torque-transmitting devices, and four fixed interconnections. The powertrain includes an engine and torque converter that is continuously connected to one of the planetary gear members and an output member that is continuously connected with another one of the planetary gear members. The six torque-transmitting devices provide interconnections between various gear members, and the transmission housing, and are operated in combinations of three to establish ten forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2010
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew W. Phillips, Scott H. Wittkopp, James M. Hart, Clinton E. Carey
  • Patent number: 7651429
    Abstract: A transmission with planetary gearsets (RS1, RS2, RS3, RS4), shafts and shifting elements (A, B, C, D, E). A carrier of gearset (RS2) and the input forming shaft (1). A carrier of gearset (RS3) and the output forming shaft (2). Sun gears of gearsets (RS1, RS4) couple and forming shaft (3). Ring gears of gearsets (RS1, RS4) respectively form shafts (4, 8). Sun gears of gearsets (RS2, RS3) forming shaft (5). A carrier and a ring gear of respective gearsets (RS1, RS3) forming shaft (6). A ring gear and a carrier of respective gearsets (RS2 RS4) forming shaft (7). In the direction of power flow, element (A) is located between shaft (3) and a housing, element (B) between shaft (4) and the housing, element (C) between two of shafts (1, 5, 7), element (D) between shafts (6, 8), and element (E) between shafts (5, 8).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2010
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Michael Kamm, Gabor Diosi, Josef Haupt, Gerhard Gumpoltsberger, Peter Ziemer, Martin Brehmer
  • Patent number: 7651255
    Abstract: A light source apparatus for an electronic endoscope includes a light source; a rotary shutter including a pair of aperture controlling rotary plates; a first planetary gear mechanism including a first internal tooth gear, a first sun gear rotated with one aperture controlling rotary plate, and a first planet gear engaged with the first internal tooth gear and the first sun gear; a second planetary gear mechanism including a second internal tooth gear, a second sun gear rotated with the other aperture controlling rotary plate, and a second planet gear engaged with the second internal tooth gear and the second sun gear; and a carrier device which holds the first and second planet gears. An endless timing belt is installed on an output gear of a phase-difference motor and an input tooth portion of the second internal tooth gear, and includes a meshing portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2010
    Assignee: Hoya Corporation
    Inventor: Shunichi Ito
  • Patent number: 7648437
    Abstract: The electrically variable transmission family of the present invention provides low-content, low-cost electrically variable transmission mechanisms including first, second and third differential gear sets, a battery, two electric machines serving interchangeably as motors or generators and four selectable torque-transfer devices. The selectable torque transmitting devices are engaged to yield an EVT with a continuously variable range of speeds (including reverse) and four mechanically fixed forward speed ratios. The torque transmitting devices and the first and second motor/generators are operable to provide five operating modes in the electrically variable transmission, including battery reverse mode, EVT reverse mode, reverse and forward launch modes, continuously variable transmission range mode, and fixed ratio mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Madhusudan Raghavan, Alan G. Holmes
  • Publication number: 20090312128
    Abstract: A power train according to an embodiment of the invention includes three sets of planetary gear sets, one clutch, and two brakes, such that it provides two electric vehicle modes, two hybrid modes, and two engine modes of overdrive shift ratio. Further, the power train of a hybrid vehicle has a simple configuration, high power performance, and reduced weight and fuel consumption, while being easily equipped in the vehicle. In particular, since an engine mode that makes it possible to reduce a significant amount of fuel consumption especially when a vehicle is traveling at a constant high-velocity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2008
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Applicant: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventors: Talchol Kim, Jongsool Park, Byungsoon Min, Changwook Lee
  • Patent number: 7611432
    Abstract: A powertrain is provided, comprising: an internal combustion engine and an electro-mechanical transmission. The internal combustion engine has two torque output nodes operatively connected to two torque input nodes of the electro-mechanical transmission. The transmission comprises first and second electrical machines operatively connected to first and second planetary gear sets that are selectively operative to transmit torque to an output shaft. The two torque output nodes of the engine comprise an engine block comprising a cylinder with a pair of opposed pistons inserted therein, and each piston operatively connected to one of a first and a second crankshaft. The first and second crankshafts are operatively connected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Joel M. Maguire, Norman K. Bucknor, Madhusudan Raghavan, Paul M. Najt
  • Patent number: 7597646
    Abstract: The transmission has an input and output shaft, planetary gearsets, rotatable shafts, and shifting elements. A carrier of the gearset (RS4) and the input shaft are coupled to form the shaft (1). A ring gear of the gearset (RS2), a carrier of the gearset (RS3), and the output shaft are coupled to form a shaft (2). A sun gear of the gearset (RS1) and a sun gear of the gearset (RS4) are coupled to form shaft (3). A ring gear of the gearset (RS1) forms the shaft (4). A sun gear of the gearset (RS3) and a carrier of the gearset (RS2) are coupled to form the shaft (5). A carrier of the gearset (RS1) and a ring gear of the gearset (RS3) are coupled to form the shaft (6). A ring gear of the gearset (RS4) forms the shaft (7). A sun gear of the gearset (RS2) forms the shaft (8).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Michael Kamm, Gabor Diosi, Josef Haupt, Gerhard Gumpoltsberger, Peter Ziemer, Martin Brehmer
  • Patent number: 7582040
    Abstract: An eight-gear gearbox comprises an input shaft, an output shaft, four planetary gear sets, eight rotatable shafts and five shifting elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Michael Kamm, Gabor Diosi, Josef Haupt, Gerhard Gumpoltsberger, Peter Ziemer, Martin Brehmer
  • Publication number: 20090209391
    Abstract: A front wheel drive transmission is provided having an input member, an output member, four planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes a sun gear member, a planet carrier member, and a ring gear member. The torque transmitting devices include clutches and brakes arranged within a transmission housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2008
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Clinton E. Carey, Scott H. Wittkopp, James M. Hart, Andrew W. Phillips
  • Publication number: 20090209390
    Abstract: A front wheel drive transmission is provided having an input member, an output member, four planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes a sun gear member, a planet carrier member, and a ring gear member. The torque transmitting devices include clutches and brakes arranged within a transmission housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2008
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Clinton E. Carey, Scott H. Wittkopp, James M. Hart, Andrew W. Phillips
  • Patent number: 7566284
    Abstract: A multi-speed transmission with forward and reverse gears having input and output shafts, planetary gearsets, rotatable shafts and control elements. The input shaft can be detachably connected to shaft (6) by clutch (16); clutch (13) to shaft (3), and clutch (14) to shaft (4). The shaft (6) is permanently connected to the sun gear of the second planetary gearset and the sun gear of the third planetary gearset. Shaft (3) is permanently connected to the carrier of the second planetary gearset and the ring gear of the third planetary gearset; coupled to the housing via brake (03). Shaft (4) is permanently connected to the sun gear of the first planetary gearset and can be coupled to the housing via the brake (04).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2009
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventor: Gerhard Gumpoltsberger
  • Publication number: 20090143187
    Abstract: An automatic transmission includes a first planetary gear set; a second planetary gear set; a third planetary gear set; an input shaft; an output shaft; and five friction elements. A first ring gear is constantly locked. A third carrier is connected with a second ring gear to define a rotating member. The input shaft is constantly connected with a second carrier, and the output shaft is constantly connected with the rotating member. The five friction elements include a first friction element adapted to selectively connect a first carrier with a third ring gear; a second friction element adapted to selectively connect a first sun gear with the second carrier; a third friction element adapted to selectively connect the first sun gear with a second sun gear; a fourth friction element adapted to selectively connect the first carrier with the second carrier; and a fifth friction element adapted to selectively connect the first carrier with the second sun gear.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2008
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Inventor: Takeo HIRAMATSU
  • Patent number: 7513846
    Abstract: The transmission has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide eight forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. The transmission includes three planetary gear sets, six torque-transmitting devices, one fixed interconnection and a grounded member. The powertrain includes an engine and torque converter that is continuously connected to one of the planetary gear members and an output member that is continuously connected with another one of the planetary gear members. The six torque-transmitting devices provide interconnections between various gear members, and the transmission housing, and are operated in combinations of three to establish eight forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott H. Wittkopp, James M. Hart, Andrew W. Phillips, Clinton E. Carey, Madhusudan Raghavan
  • Patent number: 7497802
    Abstract: The multi-speed transmission has shafts, planetary gearsets (RS1, RS2, RS3, RS4) and shifting elements (A, B, C, D, E). Carrier (ST4) of gearset (RS4) and the input shaft couple as shaft (1). Carrier (ST3) of gearset (RS3) and the output shaft couple as shaft (2). Sun gears (SO1, SO4) of gearsets (RS1, RS4) couple as shaft (3). Ring gear (HO1) of gearset (RS1) forms shaft (4). Sun gear (SO3) forms shaft (5). Carrier (ST1) of gearset (RS1) and ring gear (HO3) of gearset (RS3) couple as shaft (6). Sun gear (SO2) of gearset (RS2) and carrier (ST4) of gearset (RS4) couple as shaft (7). Ring gear (HO2) is shaft (8). In the flow of power, elements (A, B) are respectively between shafts (3, 4) and a transmission housing; element (C) is between shafts (1, 5); element (D) is between shafts (2, 8); and element (E) is between shafts (5, 7).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Michael Kamm, Gabor Diosi, Josef Haupt, Gerhard Gumpoltsberger, Peter Ziemer, Martin Brehmer
  • Publication number: 20090036255
    Abstract: A transmission is provided having an input member, an output member, four planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes first, second and third members. The torque transmitting devices may include clutches and brakes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2007
    Publication date: February 5, 2009
    Inventors: Andrew W. Phillips, Scott H. Wittkopp, James M. Hart, Clinton E. Carey, Madhusudan Raghavan
  • Patent number: 7479080
    Abstract: The electrically variable transmission family of the present invention provides low-content, low-cost electrically variable transmission mechanisms including first and second differential gear sets, a battery, three electric machines serving interchangeably as motors or generators and up to three brakes. The three motor/generators are operable in a coordinated fashion to yield an EVT with a continuously variable range of speeds (including reverse). One of the brakes enables series hybrid operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2009
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventor: Patrick B. Usoro
  • Publication number: 20090017979
    Abstract: The transmission has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide ten forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. The transmission includes four planetary gear sets, six torque-transmitting devices, and four fixed interconnections. The powertrain includes an engine and torque converter that is continuously connected to one of the planetary gear members and an output member that is continuously connected with another one of the planetary gear members. The six torque-transmitting devices provide interconnections between various gear members, and the transmission housing, and are operated in combinations of three to establish ten forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2007
    Publication date: January 15, 2009
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Andrew W. Phillips, Scott H. Wittkopp, James M. Hart, Clinton E. Carey
  • Patent number: 7470209
    Abstract: A hybrid powertrain includes an electrically variable transmission and an internal combustion engine. The transmission is operable to provide a continuously variable mode of operation. The engine is capable of variable displacement in that at least half of the cylinders contained therein are deactivatable. Additionally the internal combustion engine operates with a late intake valve closing strategy to increase the peak efficiency of the internal combustion engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Alan G. Holmes, Michael R. Schmidt, Donald Klemen, Anthony H. Heap, Gregory A. Hubbard, Larry T. Nitz
  • Publication number: 20080261767
    Abstract: The transmission has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide eight forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. The transmission includes four planetary gear sets having five torque-transmitting devices, three fixed interconnections and a grounded member. The powertrain includes an engine and torque converter that is continuously connected to at least one of the planetary gear members and an output member that is continuously connected with another one of the planetary gear members. The five torque-transmitting devices provide interconnections between various gear members, and with a stationary member, and are operated in combinations of three to establish at least eight forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2007
    Publication date: October 23, 2008
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Andrew W. Phillips, James M. Hart, Scott H. Wittkopp, Clinton E. Carey
  • Publication number: 20080242495
    Abstract: The transmission has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide eight forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. The transmission includes four planetary gear sets having five torque-transmitting mechanisms, three fixed interconnections and a grounded member. The powertrain includes an engine and torque converter that is continuously connected to at least one of the planetary gear members, and an output member that is continuously connected with another one of the planetary gear members. The five torque-transmitting mechanisms provide interconnections between various gear members, and the transmission housing, and are operated in combinations of three to establish at least eight forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2007
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Scott H. Wittkopp, Andrew W. Phillips, Clinton E. Carey, James M. Hart, Madhusudan Raghavan
  • Patent number: 7422535
    Abstract: The electrically variable transmission family of the present invention provides low-content, low-cost electrically variable transmission mechanisms including first and second differential gear sets, a battery, two electric machines serving interchangeably as motors or generators, four or five selectable torque-transmitting devices, and possibly a dog clutch. The selectable torque transmitting devices are engaged to yield an EVT with a continuously variable range of speeds (including reverse) and at least one mechanically fixed forward speed ratio. The torque transmitting devices and the first and second motor/generators are operable to provide five operating modes in the electrically variable transmission, including battery reverse mode, EVT reverse mode, reverse and forward launch modes, continuously variable transmission range mode, and fixed ratio mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Madhusudan Raghavan, Norman K. Bucknor
  • Patent number: 7419450
    Abstract: A light source apparatus for an electronic endoscope includes a light source; a rotary shutter including a pair of coaxial aperture controlling rotary plates, which are selectively rotatable relative to and together with each other and each includes light interception portions and opening portions, wherein a combined opening angle of the opening portions is varied by a relative rotation of the aperture controlling rotary plates, and the amount of emitted light is controlled by varying the combined opening angle, and the controlled amount of the light is emitted through the rotary shutter by integral rotation of the aperture controlling rotary plates; and a mechanical stop device, positioned between the aperture controlling rotary plates, for limiting the range of relative rotation angle between the aperture controlling rotary plates from a maximum opening angle to a minimum opening angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2008
    Assignee: Hoya Corporation
    Inventor: Shunichi Ito
  • Patent number: 7402119
    Abstract: A transmission can be provided which achieves multiple speeds while maintaining good balance of gear ratio steps between gears by having a first clutch which selectively connects a first intermediate output member and a fourth rotating element RE4 together, a second clutch which selectively connects an input shaft and a second rotating element RE2 together, a third clutch which selectively connects the first intermediate output member and a first rotating element RE1 together, a fourth clutch which selectively connects the input shaft and the first rotating element RE1 together, a fifth clutch which selectively connects a second intermediate output member and the first rotating element RE1 together, a first brake which selectively holds the first rotating element RE1 to a transmission case, and a second brake which selectively holds the second rotating element RE2 to the transmission case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Atsushi Kamada, Atsushi Honda, Akiharu Abe, Atsushi Tabata, Kazutoshi Nozaki, Yuji Inoue, Hirofumi Ota
  • Patent number: 7387585
    Abstract: The electrically variable transmission family of the present invention provides low-content, low-cost electrically variable transmission mechanisms including first, second and third differential gear sets, a battery, two electric machines serving interchangeably as motors or generators, up to five selectable torque-transfer devices and possibly a dog clutch. The selectable torque transmitting devices are engaged to yield an EVT with a continuously variable range of speeds (including reverse) and up to four mechanically fixed forward speed ratios. The torque transmitting devices and the first and second motor/generators are operable to provide five operating modes in the electrically variable transmission, including battery reverse mode, EVT reverse mode, reverse and forward launch modes, continuously variable transmission range mode, and fixed ratio mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2008
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Norman K. Bucknor, Madhusudan Raghavan
  • Patent number: 7384361
    Abstract: The transmission is constructed so that the rotation of the input shaft is outputted to the second transmission portion via the first intermediate output path and the second intermediate output path accelerated and rotated with respect to the first intermediate output path, and the first rotary element is selectively connected to the first driven gear via the first clutch and is selectively connected to the second driven gear via the third clutch, the second rotary element are selectively connected to the first driven gear via the second clutch and are selectively connected to the transmission case operating as a non-rotating member via the first brake, the third rotary element is connected to the output gear, the fourth rotary element is selectively connected to the transmission case via the second brake, and the fifth rotary element is selectively connected to the second driven gear via the fourth clutch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2008
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Atsushi Tabata, Akira Hoshino, Terufumi Miyazaki, Atsushi Honda, Akiharu Abe, Hirofumi Ota
  • Patent number: 7367911
    Abstract: The electrically variable transmission family of the present invention provides low-content, low-cost electrically variable transmission mechanisms including first, second and third differential gear sets, a battery, two electric machines serving interchangeably as motors or generators, up to five selectable torque-transfer devices and possibly a dog clutch. The selectable torque transmitting devices are engaged to yield an EVT with a continuously variable range of speeds (including reverse) and up to four mechanically fixed forward speed ratios. The torque transmitting devices and the first and second motor/generators are operable to provide five operating modes in the electrically variable transmission, including battery reverse mode, EVT reverse mode, reverse and forward launch modes, continuously variable transmission range mode, and fixed ratio mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2008
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Madhusudan Raghavan, Norman K. Bucknor
  • Publication number: 20080009384
    Abstract: A multi-speed automatic planetary transmission for a motor vehicle having an input shaft (AN), an output shaft (AB), four planetary gearsets (RS1, RS2, RS3, RS4), at least eight rotatable shafts (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8), and five shifting elements (A, B, C, D, E), the selective engagement of which produces different transmission ratios between the input haft (AN) and the output shaft (AB), such that eight forward gears and at least one reverse gear are possible. Further, it is possible to connect an electric machine (12) as generator and/or drive, to the fifth shaft (5) by means a drive connection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2007
    Publication date: January 10, 2008
    Applicant: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Gabor DIOSI, Josef Haupt, Peter Ziemer, Pedro Casals, Martin Brehmer
  • Patent number: 7306533
    Abstract: A light source apparatus for an electronic endoscope includes a light source; a rotary shutter having a pair of aperture controlling rotary plates; a first planetary gear mechanism including a first internal tooth gear, a first sun gear, and a first planet gear; a second planetary gear mechanism including a second internal tooth gear, a second sun gear, and a second planet gear; and carriers holding the first and second planet gears in a same phase position and supporting the first and second planet gears. One of the first sun gear and the first internal tooth gear is non-rotatably fixed, and the other thereof is rotated together with one of the aperture controlling rotary plates, and one of the second sun gear and the second internal tooth gear of the second planetary gear mechanism is driven together with the other thereof by a phase difference motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Assignee: PENTAX Corporation
    Inventor: Shunichi Ito
  • Publication number: 20070281820
    Abstract: A transmission includes planetary gearsets, shafts and shifting elements. A carrier of gearset (RS4) and the input shaft couple forming shaft (1). A carrier of gearset (RS3) and the output shaft couple forming shaft (2). A sun gear of gearsets (RS1, RS4) couple forming shaft (3). The carriers of gearsets (RS1, RS2) respectively form shafts (4, 8). A ring gear of gearset (RS2) and a sun gear of gearset (RS3) couple forming shaft (5). A ring gear of gearsets (RS1, RS3) couple forming shaft (6). A sun gear of gearset (RS2) and a ring gear of gearset (RS4) couple forming shaft (7). Element (A) is located in a direction of power flow between shaft (3) and the transmission housing, element (B) between shaft (4) and the housing, element (C) between shafts (1, 5), element (D) between shafts (2, 6) or (6, 8), element (E) between two of shafts (5, 7, 8).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2007
    Publication date: December 6, 2007
    Applicant: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Michael Kamm, Gabor Diosi, Josef Haupt, Gerhard Gumpoltsberger, Peter Ziemer, Martin Brehmer
  • Patent number: 7303501
    Abstract: The family of transmissions has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide at least eight forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. The transmission family members include three planetary gear sets having seven torque-transmitting mechanisms and two interconnecting members. The powertrain includes an engine that is selectively connectable to at least one of the planetary gear members and an output member that is continuously connected with another one of the planetary gear members. The seven torque-transmitting mechanisms provide interconnections between various gear members, the input shaft and the transmission housing, and are operated in combinations of four to establish at least eight forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Madhusudan Raghavan, Norman K. Bucknor, Patrick B. Usoro
  • Publication number: 20070270276
    Abstract: A transmission having input and output shafts, planetary gearsets (RS1, RS2, RS3, RS4), and additional shafts and shifting elements. A ring gear of set (RS4) and the input shaft define shaft (1). A carrier of (RS3) and the output define shaft (2). The sun gears of (RS1, RS4) define shaft (3). A ring gear of (RS1) forms shaft (4). A ring gear of (RS2) and a sun gear of (RS3) define shaft (5). A carrier of (RS1) and a ring gear of (RS3) form shaft (6). A sun gear of (RS2) and a carrier of (RS4) define shaft (7). A carrier of (RS2) forms shaft (8). A first element (A) couples shaft (3) to the transmission housing. A second element (B) couples shaft (4) to the housing. A third element (C) couples shafts (1, 5) to one another. A fourth element (D) couples shafts (2, 8) or (6, 8) to one another. A fifth element (E) couples shafts (5, 7), (7, 8) or (5, 8) to one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2007
    Publication date: November 22, 2007
    Applicant: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Michael Kamm, Gabor Diosi, Josef Haupt, Gerhard Gumpoltsberger, Peter Ziemer, Martin Brehmer
  • Patent number: 7294087
    Abstract: An automatic transmission including a mechanical reduction gear connected to an input shaft that generates a decelerated rotation smaller than a rotation of the input shaft from a decelerated rotating member and a compound planetary gear for shifting with a first element, a second element, a third element, a fourth element, and a fifth element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2007
    Assignee: Aisin AW Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masahiro Hayabuchi, Masaaki Nishida, Satoru Kasuya, Toshihiko Aoki
  • Patent number: 7278940
    Abstract: A powertrain includes an engine with an engine output member and a transmission with two motor/generators and a transmission input member operatively connected to the engine output member. A control unit is configured to selectively cause a device to resist or prevent rotation of the input member in response to the existence of certain conditions, such as the engine not supplying torque to the transmission and the transmission being in reverse operating mode. Resisting or preventing rotation of the input member improves transmission performance when only the motor/generators are supplying torque to propel the vehicle. A corresponding method is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2007
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Anthony P. Tata, Kyle K. Kinsey, Robert D. Burns, Brendan M. Conlon, Donald P. Pfaff, Mark A. Theobald, Mark A. Damico
  • Patent number: 7261660
    Abstract: An electrically variable transmission is provided including an input member to receive power from an engine about a primary axis; an output member connected to a transfer member for transmitting power to a secondary axis; first and second motor/generators; and first and second simple planetary gear sets each having first, second and third members. The input member is continuously connected to the first member of the first gear set, and the output member is continuously connected to the first member of the second gear set. The first motor/generator is continuously connected to the second member of the first gear set. The second motor/generator is continuously connected with the third member of the first or second gear set. First and second torque transfer devices are positioned on one side of the transfer member, and the first and second gear sets are positioned on an opposite side of the transfer member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2007
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Henryk Sowul, Alan G. Holmes, Michael R. Schmidt, Donald Klemen, James D. Hendrickson
  • Publication number: 20070191176
    Abstract: A multi-speed transmission with forward and reverse gears having input and output shafts, planetary gearsets, rotatable shafts and control elements. The input shaft can be detachably connected to shaft (6) by clutch (16); clutch (13) to shaft(3), and clutch (14) to shaft (4). The shaft (6) is permanently connected to the sun gear of the second planetary gearset and the sun gear of the third planetary gearset. Shaft (3) is permanently connected to the carrier of the second planetary gearset and the ring gear of the third planetary gearset; coupled to the housing via brake (03). Shaft (4) is permanently connected to the sun gear of the first planetary gearset and can be coupled to the housing via the brake (04).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2007
    Publication date: August 16, 2007
    Applicant: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventor: Gerhard Gumpoltsberger
  • Patent number: 7238132
    Abstract: An electrically variable transmission includes an input member to receive power from an engine about a primary axis; an output member connected to a transfer member for transmitting power to a secondary axis; first and second motor/generators; first and second torque transfer devices; and first and second planetary gear sets each having first, second and third members. The input member is continuously connected to the first member of the first gear set, and the output member is continuously connected to the first member of the second gear set. The first motor/generator is continuously connected to the second member of the first gear set. The second motor/generator is continuously connected with the third member of the first or second gear set. The transfer member is positioned between the first and second motor/generators.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Henryk Sowul, Alan G. Holmes, Michael R. Schmidt, Donald Klemen, James D. Hendrickson