Orbit Braked Patents (Class 475/317)
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Patent number: 7798934Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: October 11, 2007Date of Patent: September 21, 2010Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.Inventors: James M. Hart, Andrew W. Phillips, Clinton E. Carey, Scott H. Wittkopp, Madhusudan Raghavan
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Patent number: 7794347Abstract: A power train for hybrid vehicles increases the range of the transmission gear ratio within which the efficiency of the power train is superior. Furthermore, the method of operating the power train is varied depending on the transmission gear ratio, so that the power train can be operated with superior efficiency.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2006Date of Patent: September 14, 2010Assignee: Hyundai Motor CompanyInventors: Sung-Tae Cho, Jang-Moo Lee, Nam-Wook Kim, Ho-Rim Yang
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Patent number: 7785227Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 19, 2007Date of Patent: August 31, 2010Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.Inventors: Scott H. Wittkopp, Clinton E. Carey, James M. Hart, Andrew W. Phillips, Madhusudan Raghavan
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Patent number: 7780567Abstract: An input brake assembly is provided for selectively grounding a transmission input member. The packaging location of the input brake assembly does not interfere with, and thus still allows the option of providing a bypass clutch for a flex plate-type flywheel connecting the engine with the transmission input member. The input brake assembly includes a flywheel, preferably a flex plate, for transferring rotary torque between the engine and the transmission input member and a ring gear secured to the outer periphery of the flex plate. A pinion gear is axially movable into and out of meshing engagement with the ring gear. A grounding device is operatively connected to the pinion gear and is operable to prevent rotation of the pinion gear, thereby braking the flex plate as well as the transmission input member operatively connected thereto when the pinion gear is in meshing engagement with the ring gear.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2007Date of Patent: August 24, 2010Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, inc.Inventors: James D. Hendrickson, John A. Diemer, Craig S. Ross, Michael H. Pohl, Robert K. Dunlap, Alan G. Holmes
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Patent number: 7766786Abstract: 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, five torque-transmitting devices, one grounded member 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 five torque-transmitting devices provide interconnections between various gear members, and the transmission housing, and are operated in combinations of two to establish eight forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2007Date of Patent: August 3, 2010Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.Inventors: Gregory Hukill, Scott H. Wittkopp, James M. Hart, Andrew W. Phillips, Clinton E. Carey
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Patent number: 7749128Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 1, 2006Date of Patent: July 6, 2010Assignee: Mazda Motor CorporationInventors: Shinya Kamada, Takamichi Teraoka, Junichi Doi, Tokimori Saka, Tatsuhiko Iwasaki, Naohiro Sakaue, Tatsutoshi Mizobe, Yoshihiko Fujita, Norio Iwashita, Satoshi Komori, Kazuhiko Ueda, Seiji Esaki
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Patent number: 7749129Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: October 11, 2007Date of Patent: July 6, 2010Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.Inventors: Scott H. Wittkopp, Andrew W. Phillips, Clinton E. Carey, James M. Hart, Madhusudan Raghavan
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Patent number: 7736259Abstract: 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 having six torque-transmitting devices, a fixed interconnection and a grounded member. The powertrain includes an engine and torque converter that is selectively 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 six torque-transmitting devices provide interconnections between various gear members, the transmission housing and with the input member, and are operated in combinations of three to establish at least eight forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2007Date of Patent: June 15, 2010Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.Inventors: Scott H. Wittkopp, Andrew W. Phillips, Clinton E. Carey, James M. Hart, Madhusudan Raghavan
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Patent number: 7713161Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: May 7, 2007Date of Patent: May 11, 2010Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AGInventors: Michael Kamm, Gabor Diosi, Josef Haupt, Gerhard Gumpoltsberger, Peter Ziemer, Martin Brehmer
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Patent number: 7704176Abstract: There is provided a transmission device having an electrically variable output that employs three electrically powered motor-generators, or machines. The electrically-variable transmission device comprises first, second and third electrical machines coaxial to and coupled to a plurality of planetary gear sets. Each planetary gear set coupled to a main shaft operative to transmit torque therebetween and operative to transmit torque to an output. There is an input mechanically coupled to one of the planetary gear sets. This transmission device can transmit mechanical power with a continuously variable ratio of the input shaft speed to the output shaft speed using two of the electric motors at a time, forming an input-split or either an output-split or a compound-split. A selectively actuable brake device is operative to multiply torque output from the second electrical machine.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2007Date of Patent: April 27, 2010Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.Inventor: Alan G. Holmes
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Patent number: 7699736Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 6, 2007Date of Patent: April 20, 2010Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AGInventors: Gabor Diosi, Josef Haupt, Peter Ziemer, Pedro Casals, Martin Brehmer
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Patent number: 7695394Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 27, 2007Date of Patent: April 13, 2010Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.Inventors: Andrew W. Phillips, Scott H. Wittkopp, James M. Hart, Clinton E. Carey
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Patent number: 7575534Abstract: The transmission includes a minimal-orbiter gear complex and a single infinitely-variable rotary control device. The minimal orbiter includes only a control gear and an output gear interconnected by the different gearing portions of at least one cluster gear supported by an orbiting web responsive to an input drive provided by a primary engine. The rotary control device may be any kind of apparatus that is capable of providing resistance torque that can match the torque of the primary engine to slow and stop the control gear of the orbital complex. In a preferred embodiment disclosed, the rotary control device is a hydraulic jack machine having a drive shaft connected to an adjustable swash plate that provides primary control of the flow of fluid through the machine.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2006Date of Patent: August 18, 2009Assignee: Torvec, Inc.Inventors: James Y. Gleasman, Keith E. Gleasman, Donald Gabel
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Patent number: 7537540Abstract: An electric motor-driven screw driving or drilling tool device with a planetary gear, comprising a ring gear and planet wheels mating with the ring gear, wherein the ring gear can be locked and fixed relative to the housing via locking bodies which are pretensioned by springs in a radially inward direction, the locking bodies being radially outwardly displaceable when a switch-off torque has been exceeded, such that the ring gear can be rotated relative to the housing, and the drive shaft is no longer driven. In order to improve the ease of operation of the device and reduce its size, the invention proposes leaf springs which extend in the peripheral direction of the ring gear, whose lever arm lengths can be adjusted in a peripheral direction to generate different bending forces acting on a respective locking body.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2006Date of Patent: May 26, 2009Assignee: Metabowerke GmbHInventors: Martin Baumann, Christoph Maier
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Patent number: 7488269Abstract: An automatic transmission having first and second groups of successive forward-drive positions for outputting a rotary motion a speed of which is higher than the speed of a rotary motion received from an input member, the first group being established by an engaging action of a first input clutch while the second group being established by an engaging action of a second input clutch, or first and second groups of successive forward-drive positions for reducing the speed of the rotary motion received from the input member, the first and second groups being established by an engaging action of a first and second input clutches respectively. The successive operating positions of the first group have respective speed ratios different from those of the second group. The automatic transmission is shiftable to a selected one of the successive operating positions of a selected one of the first and second groups.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 2007Date of Patent: February 10, 2009Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Atsushi Tabata, Akira Hoshino, Terufumi Miyazaki, Atsushi Honda, Akiharu Abe, Hirofumi Ota
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Patent number: 7452304Abstract: A power tool with a housing, a motor, an output spindle and a transmission assembly with a transmission and a speed selector. The transmission includes a plurality of planetary transmission stages that couple the motor to the output spindle. The speed selector includes only one switch member that is slidably movable between three positions to cause the transmission to operate in a corresponding number of speed ratios.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2008Date of Patent: November 18, 2008Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.Inventors: Todd A Hagan, Christine Potter, Rodney Milbourne
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Publication number: 20080261767Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: October 5, 2007Publication date: October 23, 2008Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.Inventors: Andrew W. Phillips, James M. Hart, Scott H. Wittkopp, Clinton E. Carey
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Publication number: 20080242495Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: October 11, 2007Publication date: October 2, 2008Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.Inventors: Scott H. Wittkopp, Andrew W. Phillips, Clinton E. Carey, James M. Hart, Madhusudan Raghavan
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Patent number: 7419450Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: October 24, 2005Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Hoya CorporationInventor: Shunichi Ito
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Publication number: 20080207373Abstract: An electrically-variable transmission is provided with input member and output member, first and second motor/generators, a first planetary gear set and multiple additional planetary gear sets as well as at least four torque-transmitting mechanisms that are selectively engagable alone or in different combinations to establish a reverse electrically-variable operating mode, at least three forward electrically-variable operating modes, including two low range forward electrically-variable modes and a high range forward electrically-variable modeType: ApplicationFiled: February 26, 2007Publication date: August 28, 2008Inventor: Brendan M. Conlon
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Patent number: 7410441Abstract: A portable power tool having a relatively compact multi-stage, three-speed transmission and a related method for operating a power tool with a multi-stage, three-speed transmission.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2007Date of Patent: August 12, 2008Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.Inventors: Rodney Milbourne, Christine Potter, Todd A Hagan, Michael C Bowers
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Patent number: 7404781Abstract: A method for operating a portable power tool having a multi-stage, three-speed transmission.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2007Date of Patent: July 29, 2008Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.Inventors: Rodney Milbourne, Christine Potter, Todd A. Hagan, Michael C. Bowers
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Patent number: 7390281Abstract: Method and arrangement for providing a range gearbox with a planetary gear (1) for a motor vehicle that is configured to be connected to the output side of a basic gearbox. The ring gear (18) of the planetary gear is axially displaceable. The ring gear (18) can alternatively engage coupling rings (10, 16). A synchronizing ring (15) is intended to synchronize the rotational speed difference between the ring gear (18) and one or other coupling ring (10, 16). The synchronizing ring (15) and the coupling ring (16) are arranged coaxially outside the ring gear (18). Bars (25) for engaging the coupling ring (16) and bars (25, 25b) for driving said synchronizing ring (15) are arranged on the radially external side of the ring gear (18). The coupling ring (16) is arranged between the synchronizing ring (15) and the fork (27).Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2003Date of Patent: June 24, 2008Assignee: Volvo Lastvagnar ABInventor: Sverker Alfredsson
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Patent number: 7387585Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: March 17, 2006Date of Patent: June 17, 2008Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.Inventors: Norman K. Bucknor, Madhusudan Raghavan
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Publication number: 20080108473Abstract: A power train for an automatic transmission provides seven forward speeds and three reverse speeds. The powertrain includes an input shaft; an output gear; a transmission case; a speed shift unit; an output unit and a series of brakes and clutches for sequentially stopping and connecting input and output members of the powertrain for realizing the respective speeds.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 19, 2006Publication date: May 8, 2008Inventor: Hyu Tae Shim
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Patent number: 7367910Abstract: A one-mode, input-split electrically variable transmission is provided with two motor/generators and a torque-transmitting mechanism that is operatively connected to a second member of a first differential gear set and selectively engageable to connect the second member of the first differential gear set with the stationary member, thereby establishing a fixed speed ratio between the input member and the output member of the transmission. Preferably, another torque-transmitting mechanism is also provided to lock any two members of the differential gear set to one another, thereby establishing a second fixed speed ratio between the input member and the output member.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2005Date of Patent: May 6, 2008Assignee: General Motors CorporationInventor: Michael R. Schmidt
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Patent number: 7357751Abstract: A drive for pivoting a flap on a body of a vehicle about a pivot axis, with a drive motor, by means of which an output driving the flap pivotably can be driven rotatably via a drive train having an epicyclic gear. The epicyclic gear has a sun gear, an internally toothed rim, a planet gear which is in engagement with the sun gear and the internally toothed rim, and a planet carrier which carries the planet gear and which is connected fixedly in terms of rotation to a shaft coaxial with respect to the axis of rotation of the planet carrier. The rotational movement of a component of the epicyclic gear can be braked by a brake. In particular, the brake can stop the rotational movement of the internally toothed rim, the sun gear can be driven rotatably by the drive motor, and the shaft of the planet carrier can form the output.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2005Date of Patent: April 15, 2008Assignee: Stabilus GmbHInventors: Michael Kleinmann, Andreas Ritter
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Patent number: 7357752Abstract: A power train assembly is driveably engaged with an input source and includes a transmission module having a casing and a drive member. The transmission module is driveably connected to the input source and a creeper module is driveably engaged with the drive member of the transmission module. The creeper module is detachably mounted to the casing of the transmission module. An output assembly is in driving engagement with the creeper module and a control interface is configured to selectively engage the creeper module to transform the speed of the drive member to a reduced speed of the output member.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 2002Date of Patent: April 15, 2008Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventors: Karl A. Nerstad, James E. Winzeler, Craig R. Rust
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Patent number: 7354372Abstract: An electric actuator for an automatic transmission includes an adapter to transmit rotary motion between the adapter and the automatic transmission. An electric motor has an output shaft operably connected to the adapter by a gear set which includes a ring gear. The gear set reduces speed and increases torque supplied by the output shaft of the electric motor and applied to the adapter. A release mechanism is operably connected to the gear set and includes a lock member movable between a first position wherein the lock member is in engagement with the ring gear to lock the ring gear against rotary motion in both directions and a second position wherein the lock member is out of engagement with the ring gear to permit rotary motion of the ring gear in both directions.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2007Date of Patent: April 8, 2008Assignee: Dura Global Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Yong Qiang Wang
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Patent number: 7306533Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 7, 2005Date of Patent: December 11, 2007Assignee: PENTAX CorporationInventor: Shunichi Ito
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Patent number: 7303502Abstract: A gear change mechanism coupling a pair of shafts employs a planetary gear set comprising a sun gear fast with a first of the shafts, planet gears in a planet carrier, and an annulus or ring gear, the latter being fixed. A selector hub slidable on the other of the shafts has sets of radially spaced dogs to engage with corresponding dogs on the planet carrier and sun gear respectively, so as to couple the shafts at two different ratios depending on the axial position of the selector hub. This results in a more axially compact package than conventional dog clutch gear changers. In an alternative embodiment a reversing mechanism is provided by fixing the planet carrier and engaging the selector hub with the sun gear or annulus depending on its axial position.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2004Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: Qinetiq LimitedInventor: Robert William Thompson
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Patent number: 7294087Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 2, 2004Date of Patent: November 13, 2007Assignee: Aisin AW Co., Ltd.Inventors: Masahiro Hayabuchi, Masaaki Nishida, Satoru Kasuya, Toshihiko Aoki
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Patent number: 7244213Abstract: A drive arrangement for a motor vehicle door or hatch which can be moved by a motor with a planet gear and a brake device with a brake. The brake device has a brake drive which is separate from the drive which drives the drive shaft and the brake is able to be moved at least from one of two positions into the other of the two positions by the brake drive. The brake can be an arc-shaped clip pivotally supported by a pivot axle with an inner periphery which is matched to an outer periphery of an element of the planet gear. The brake can be combined with the brake drive as an eddy current brake or can be operated by a further gearing or use of a permanent magnet with which an electromagnet is able to interact.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2005Date of Patent: July 17, 2007Assignee: Brose Schliesssysteme GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Mehmet Gueler, Slawomir Kortyrba, Andreas Heinrich, Peter Bartel, Axel Kamberg
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Patent number: 7241244Abstract: An electric actuator for an automatic transmission includes an adapter to transmit rotary motion between the adapter and the transmission. An electric motor has an output shaft operably connected the adapter by a gear set which includes a ring gear. A release mechanism includes a solenoid which selectively moves a lock member. In a first position, the lock member engages the ring gear to lock the ring gear so that the adapter is rotated by rotary motion of the output shaft and the adapter rotates to a predetermined zone about a desired gear position. In a second position, the lock member is out of engagement with the ring gear to permit rotation of the ring gear so that the adapter is rotated by internal forces of the transmission and the adapter automatically self-aligns to the exact desired gear position when the adapter is within the predetermined zone.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2004Date of Patent: July 10, 2007Assignee: Dura Global Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Yong Qiang Wang
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Patent number: 7223195Abstract: A portable power tool with a housing, a motor having a motor output member, a driven member and a transmission. The transmission, which is located in the housing, is configured to receive a rotary input from the motor output member and to produce a rotary output that is transmitted to the output spindle. The transmission has a plurality of planetary transmission stages, each of which including a ring gear, a planet carrier and a plurality of planet gears that are supported by the planet carrier for meshing engagement with the ring gear. The transmission further includes at least one member that may be configured in a first condition, which renders at least one of the planetary transmission stages operable in an active mode, and a second condition, which renders at least one of the planetary transmission stages operable in an inactive mode. The transmission is operable in at least three overall speed reduction ratios.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2006Date of Patent: May 29, 2007Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.Inventors: Rodney Milbourne, Christine Potter, Todd A Hagan, Michael C Bowers
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Patent number: 7220211Abstract: A multi-speed transmission assembly for a rotary power tool. The transmission assembly includes a plurality of transmission stages, with at least two of the transmission stages employing a movable reduction element that permits the transmission stage to be operated in an active mode and an inactive mode. The movable reduction elements are coupled to a switching mechanism that switches the reduction elements in a predetermined manner to provide at least three-gear reduction or speed ratios.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2004Date of Patent: May 22, 2007Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.Inventors: Christine Potter, Rodney Milbourne, Todd A Hagan, Michael C Bowers
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Patent number: 7150697Abstract: A range gearbox with planetary gear (1) for motor vehicles intended to be connected to the output side of a basic gearbox. The ring gear (18) of the planetary gear is axially displaceable. The ring gear (18) can engage coupling rings (10, 16) alternatively. A synchronizing member or member (15) is intended to synchronize the rotational speed difference between the ring gear (18) and one or other coupling ring (10, 16). The synchronizing means (15) and the coupling ring (16) are arranged coaxially outside the ring gear (18). A second member or engagement member (25) for engaging the coupling ring (16) and a third member or engagement member (25, 25b) for driving said synchronizing member (15) are arranged on the external side, as seen radially, of the ring gear (18). The coupling ring (16) is arranged between the synchronizing member (15) and the first member (27).Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2004Date of Patent: December 19, 2006Assignee: Volvo Last vagnar ABInventor: Sverker Alfredsson
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Patent number: 7101300Abstract: A portable power tool with a housing, a motor having a motor output member, a driven member and a transmission. The transmission, which is located in the housing, is configured to receive a rotary input from the motor output member and to produce a rotary output that is transmitted to the output spindle. The transmission has a plurality of planetary transmission stages, each of which including a ring gear, a planet carrier and a plurality of planet gears that are supported by the planet carrier for meshing engagement with the ring gear. The transmission further includes at least one member that may be configured in a first condition, which renders at least one of the planetary transmission stages operable in an active mode, and a second condition, which renders at least one of the planetary transmission stages operable in an inactive mode. The transmission is operable in at least three overall speed reduction ratios.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 2004Date of Patent: September 5, 2006Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.Inventors: Rodney Milbourne, Christine Potter, Todd A. Hagan, Michael C. Bowers
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Patent number: 7081066Abstract: 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. None of the members of the planetary gear sets are continuously grounded or continuously connected with any other member of the planetary gear sets. 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 seven torque-transmitting mechanisms provide interconnections between various gear members and the transmission housing, and are operated in combinations of five to establish at least eight forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2004Date of Patent: July 25, 2006Assignee: General Motors CorporationInventors: Madhusudan Raghavan, Norman K. Bucknor, Patrick B. Usoro
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Patent number: 7059996Abstract: A planetary gear drive includes a thin, elastically resilient internal gear arranged within an annular housing, in which there is also a carrier that is rotatably supported by a pair of tapered roller bearings. A sun gear located concentrically within a cylindrical portion of the carrier is arranged so that the sun gear is capable of floating movement perpendicular to the drive axis. Any uneven meshing caused by error in the assembly or manufacture of the gears is automatically cancelled by radial elastic deformation of the internal gear and the floating movement of the sun gear, reducing backlash. Moreover, the use of two tapered roller bearings makes it possible to increase the moment capacity of the planetary gear drive.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2004Date of Patent: June 13, 2006Assignee: Harmonic Drive Systems Inc.Inventor: Norio Shirokoshi
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Patent number: 7059986Abstract: A powertrain having a fuel cell prime mover, an electronic control unit, two motor/generator units, two planetary gearsets, and a plurality of torque-transmitting mechanisms is operable to provide three ranges of operation. During one range of operation, the power take-off unit operates at a constant speed. During the second range of operation, the power take-off unit, one of the motor/generator units, and the output shaft operate at a same speed, and during the third range of operation, both motor/generator units, the output shaft, and the power take-off unit operate at a same speed.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2004Date of Patent: June 13, 2006Assignee: General Motors CorporationInventor: Michael R. Schmidt
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Patent number: 7044882Abstract: A switchable gearbox of a handheld power tool has a gear having a first switching stage and a second switching stage arranged sequentially in an axial direction of the gear, wherein the gear comprises a gear arrangement movable in the axial direction of the gear between the first and second switching stages. An actuator is rotatable about an axis parallel to the axial direction of the gear. At least one shifting gate is rotatable together with the actuator wherein the shifting gate interacts with the gear arrangement for moving the gear arrangement in the axial direction. The shifting gate has a central area extending linearly and at a slant relative to a circumferential direction of the gear and end sections on each end of the central area, wherein the end sections extend parallel to the circumferential direction.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2004Date of Patent: May 16, 2006Assignee: Atlas Copco Electric Tools GmbHInventor: Armin Eisenhardt
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Patent number: 6997847Abstract: A traction cable actuator has a sun gear, with a lever, at least two planetary gears engaged with the sun gear, and a housing with a toothed race engaging the planetary gears. The housing further has a lock spring seat, and a traction cable sleeve seat. A drive shaft operatively engages with the sun gear to turn the sun gear. The shaft has at least one release tab. A pulley is disposed within the housing. The pulley has planetary gear axles disposed to receive driving force from the planetary gears. The pulley also has a traction cable wire seat. A lock spring disposed to engage said lock spring seat in the housing engages the lever on the sun gear when the sun gear is turned. The lock spring holds said pulley in a position selected by turning the drive shaft. A bearing and groove stop assembly may be included.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 2004Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: L&P Property Management CompanyInventor: Jintao Liu
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Patent number: 6994649Abstract: 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 three fixed interconnections. 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 seven torque-transmitting mechanisms provide interconnections between various gear members and with the transmission housing, and are operated in combinations of two to establish at least eight forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2004Date of Patent: February 7, 2006Assignee: General Motors CorporationInventors: Madhusudan Raghavan, Norman K. Bucknor, Patrick B. Usoro
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Patent number: 6984188Abstract: A multi-speed transmission assembly for a rotary power tool. The transmission assembly includes a plurality of transmission stages, with at least two of the transmission stages employing a movable reduction element that permits the transmission stage to be operated in an active mode and an inactive mode. The movable reduction elements are coupled to a switching mechanism that switches the reduction elements in a predetermined manner to provide at least three-gear reduction or speed ratios.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2003Date of Patent: January 10, 2006Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.Inventors: Christine Potter, Rodney Milbourne, Todd A. Hagan, Michael C. Bowers
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Patent number: 6939262Abstract: A gearing switch device includes a switch assembly that is switched to one of positions to engage one of the gears in an idle gear set with an input gear and a transferring gear of a speed reduction device. The transferring gear drives a ring gear that is engaged with planetary gears device connected to one side of a disk and an output gear is connected to the other side of the disk. By the different types of engagement between the gears of the idle gear set and the transferring gear, the speed of the disk is changeable so as to have desired output torque.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2004Date of Patent: September 6, 2005Inventor: Ling-Ling Yu
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Patent number: 6899653Abstract: A fastener with a reduced gear affect. The fastener of the present invention comprises a handle assembly having an end and an opening wherein a shaft assembly is positioned within the opening and extending from the opening. The fastener further comprises a switch assembly positioned between the handle assembly and the shaft assembly wherein the switch assembly reciprocates between a locked position and an unlocked position to control a ratio of revolutions between the handle assembly and the shaft assembly. A method of fastening comprising connecting a shaft assembly to a handle assembly and moving a switching assembly, connected to the handle assembly, to an unlocked position. Next, a gear assembly is connected to the switch assembly which engages the gear assembly to the handle assembly to increase a ratio of revolutions of the shaft assembly as compared to the handle assembly.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 2003Date of Patent: May 31, 2005Inventor: Raymond J. Murphy
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Patent number: 6869380Abstract: A driveline for mobile vehicles comprising one multi-disc brake (14) which non-rotatably connects a rotatable part of a planetary transmission (12) with the housing (4) wherein the actuating device of the multi-disc brake has one piston (18) which has one automatic piston-resetting device (21), and clamping elements (22) are situated in holes (40) of the piston (18).Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 2003Date of Patent: March 22, 2005Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AGInventor: Johann Gerhard Oberstarr
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Patent number: 6860832Abstract: The transmission assembly, specially for motor vehicles, has a housing, a drive shaft, a countershaft and an arrangement for changing the reduction ratio between the drive shaft and the countershaft which contains a continuously variable transmission and downstream thereof a mechanical transmission with shifting elements in the form of clutches and brakes and a planetary gear set for shifting the reverse gear and one or more forward gears.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2001Date of Patent: March 1, 2005Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AGInventor: Markus Hoher
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Publication number: 20040142788Abstract: In order to minimize unwanted corotation, a gear support member is in the shape of a flat disk and has an outer diameter greater than the pitch circle of a ring gear. Further, a surface level of lubricating oil stored in a casing is set to be below the ring gear, but above the gear support member. Furthermore, a resilient clip is resiliently fitted on an output shaft and gear support member, and the resilient clip has at least one end supported by the casing. In addition, the casing has, on its bottom, a frictional surface for sliding contact with the lower surface of the gear support member.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 13, 2003Publication date: July 22, 2004Inventors: Susumu Ohkubo, Nobuchika Katagiri, Yoshitaka Oota