Methods Of Operation Patents (Class 60/327)
  • Patent number: 8407993
    Abstract: A method is provided for controlling a hydraulic cylinder in a work machine, which hydraulic cylinder is arranged to move an implement in relation to a part of a vehicle, with the hydraulic cylinder being controlled by a hydraulic machine. The method includes the steps of detecting initiation of a movement of the implement that is such that the piston of the hydraulic cylinder is moved in a first direction, of driving the hydraulic machine in a first rotational direction, prior to the movement of the implement taking place, so that a line from the hydraulic machine is pressurized, which line is arranged to connect the hydraulic machine to the side of the cylinder toward which the piston will be moved during the movement of the implement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: Volvo Construction Equipment AB
    Inventors: Bo Vigholm, Markku Palo
  • Publication number: 20130074485
    Abstract: In various embodiments, foam is compressed to store energy and/or expanded to recover energy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2012
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Applicant: SUSTAINX, INC.
    Inventor: SUSTAINX, INC.
  • Publication number: 20130074484
    Abstract: A clothing article for a foot including a sole including a sealed collapsible air cavity having disposed therein a return support for expanding a collapsed air cavity wherein the air cavity includes an outlet permitting a quantity of air to exit when the air cavity is collapsed; an upper, coupled to the sole, for covering a portion of the foot; an air-actuated active element coupled to the upper, the active element including a first mode and a second mode, the active element biased to the first mode and responsive to the quantity of air to transition from the first mode to the second mode; and a communication channel, coupled to the outlet and to the active element, for transferring the quantity of air from the air cavity to the active element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2012
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Inventor: Finn Alexander Strong
  • Patent number: 8405328
    Abstract: There is provided a slewing control device that enables to detect breakdown of a driving system of a mechanical brake, and generate a torque for holding a slewing body in a stopped state to thereby prevent movement of the slewing body when an anomaly has occurred. In a working machine for driving a slewing body by an electric motor 1, judgment is made as to whether a mechanical brake 4 is in an inconsistent state, based on a command to be outputted to a brake circuit B, and a pressure detected by a brake pressure sensor 17. The inconsistent state is a state that the mechanical brake 4 is in a brake released state when an activation command for switching the mechanical brake 4 to a brake activated state is outputted. If it is judged that the mechanical brake 4 is in the inconsistent state, a command for obtaining a braking torque for holding the slewing body in a stopped state is outputted to the electric motor 1.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Kobelco Construction Machinery Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masayuki Komiyama, Natsuki Yumoto, Yoshiyasu Umezu, Masayuki Kogashima
  • Publication number: 20130067899
    Abstract: An example includes a hydraulically controllable coupling to couple a rotating input and to an output to rotate, or to decouple the input and the output, with coupling and decoupling modes selected by switching a hydraulic device such as a vane pump between a pumping mode and a mode in which it does not pump. In an example, the system cooperates with a transmission to increase the number of possible gear ratios in some examples.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2010
    Publication date: March 21, 2013
    Inventor: Norm Mathers
  • Publication number: 20130047593
    Abstract: A controllable brake booster and to a method and a device for controlling the brake booster are disclosed. The pedal force that a driver must apply in order to convey an input element of the brake booster into an actuating position or to retain the element in said position is adjusted by operating the brake booster.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2010
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicant: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Reinhard Weiberle, Timo Jahnz, Jochen Mayer, Jens Kolarsky
  • Publication number: 20130047592
    Abstract: A hydraulic system is disclosed. The hydraulic system may have a primary pump, a hydraulic actuator, and first and second passages fluidly connecting the primary pump to the hydraulic actuator in a closed-loop manner. The hydraulic system may also have a charge circuit, a makeup valve movable to selectively allow charge fluid from the charge circuit to enter the first or second passages, and at least one restricted pilot passage configured to direct pilot fluid to the makeup valve to move the makeup valve and allow the charge fluid into the first and second passages.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2011
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Inventors: Patrick Opdenbosch, Michael L. Knussman, Joshua Dierking
  • Publication number: 20130042602
    Abstract: The invention relates to a power train for a hybrid vehicle, comprising two hydraulic machines (20, 22) including variable displacement, both of which are connected to a hydraulic pressure accumulator (24) which stores energy, a first hydraulic machine (20) being permanently connected to an internai combustion traction engine (2), and a second hydraulic machine (22) being connected, also permanently, to drive wheels (8) of the vehicle, characterised in that the two hydraulic machines (20, 22) are also interconnected by a linking means (10) that can be engaged or disengaged.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2010
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Applicant: PEUGEOT CITROEN AUTOMOBILES SA
    Inventor: Pierre Gauthier
  • Publication number: 20130042601
    Abstract: A compressed air energy storage system integrated with a source of secondary heat, such as a simple cycle gas turbine, to increase power production and to provide power regulation through the use of stored compressed air heated by said secondary heat to provide power augmentation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2011
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Inventor: Robert J. Kraft
  • Publication number: 20130036727
    Abstract: A device having a hydraulic drive for civil engineering work has least one shaft that can be rotated by a hydraulic motor. The hydraulic motor is operated by fluid of a hydraulic circuit that is supplied by a hydraulic pump. The hydraulic motor has a changeable displacement, and means for changing the volume stream are provided. A sensor for measuring the fluid pressure is disposed in the hydraulic circuit, and is connected with a control and regulation unit, by way of which the displacement of the hydraulic motor is adjustable, and by way of which the means for a change in the volume stream can be turned on. The control and regulation unit is set up so that in the event of a pressure drop in the hydraulic circuit, a reduction in the displacement of the hydraulic motor as well as a reduction in the volume stream is brought about.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2012
    Publication date: February 14, 2013
    Applicant: ABI Anlagentechnik-Baumaschinen-Industriebedarf Maschinenfabrik und Vertriebsgesellschaft mbH
    Inventors: Christian HEICHEL, Albrecht KLEIBL
  • Publication number: 20130036728
    Abstract: Disclosed are hydraulic pump systems and pump suction charging systems which reduce or eliminate cavitation in the systems, as well as methods of operating the same and work machines including the same.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2011
    Publication date: February 14, 2013
    Applicant: Clark Equipment Company
    Inventors: Gaetan Billaud, Nicolas Gales
  • Publication number: 20130025271
    Abstract: A hydraulic system having an actuator having a piston and associated rod forming head and rod chambers and being adapted to move between retracted and extended positions within a cylinder, and first and second sources of fluid. A first pump provides fluid from the first source to the head chamber at a first pressure. At least one valve provides fluid from the second source at a second pressure to supplement fluid provided to the head chamber from the first pump when the second pressure is greater than the first pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2011
    Publication date: January 31, 2013
    Applicant: CATERPILLAR INC.
    Inventors: Daniel T. Mather, Troy A. Shawgo, Daniel H. Killion, Vishnu Irigireddy, Deepak Amaravadi, Dayao Chen, Matthew Hempel, Kenneth A. Dust, Ryan M. Ludwig, Alfred J. Abraham
  • Publication number: 20130014498
    Abstract: A system controlling pressure in a transmission including a variable displacement pump, a circuit carrying fluid from the pump to the transmission, a valve using fluid in said circuit to regulate pressure that controls displacement of the pump, a source of control pressure including an accumulator, a first spring acting with said source causing the valve to change the regulated pressure, and a second spring acting with feedback pressure from said circuit to oppose said change.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2011
    Publication date: January 17, 2013
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Derek Kinch, Mark R. Dobson, Lev Pekarsky, Hrudaya Mahapatro
  • Publication number: 20130014499
    Abstract: Fail-safe methods for utilizing an over-center pump/motor in a hydraulic hybrid vehicle are disclosed. A high-pressure fluid shutoff valve and an optional electrically or manually operated valve are additionally provided as means to ensure disconnection of the high pressure source in the event of a failure. Displacement stroke position and pressure differentials across the pump/motor are continually monitored. On detection of various modes of failure or irregularity in control of displacement, actions are taken including any of: the high pressure and low pressure accumulators are shut off automatically or manually, a check valve between the high and low pressure ports of the pump/motor is activated, and a small amount of pressurized fluid is released from the high pressure circuit to depressurize the captive fluid. Safe startup and shutdown procedures are also specified.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2011
    Publication date: January 17, 2013
    Applicant: U.S. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
    Inventor: Charles L. Gray, JR.
  • Publication number: 20130008152
    Abstract: An energy storage system, for a hybrid vehicle including an internal combustion engine having an output shaft and a transmission operably coupled to the output shaft, includes a reservoir containing working fluid, a reversible pump/motor in fluid communication with the reservoir, a first clutch selectively drivably coupling the output shaft of the engine and the reversible pump/motor, a second clutch selectively drivably coupling an output shaft of the transmission and the reversible pump/motor, and an accumulator containing working fluid and gas. The accumulator is in fluid communication with the reversible pump/motor to deliver pressurized working fluid to the reversible pump/motor when operating as a motor to drive one of the respective output shafts of the engine and the transmission, and to receive pressurized working fluid discharged by the reversible pump/motor when operating as a pump driven by the one of the respective output shafts of the engine and the transmission.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2012
    Publication date: January 10, 2013
    Applicant: ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
    Inventors: Kenric B. Rose, William G. Spadafora, Edward Greif
  • Publication number: 20130009612
    Abstract: A wind turbine generator, or other energy extraction device, has a hydraulic circuit comprising a hydraulic pump driven by a rotating shaft and a hydraulic motor driving an electricity generator. When the electricity generator is switched off, it executes one or more pumping cycles to pressurise the high pressure manifold and therefore recover angular kinetic energy from the electricity generator rotor which can later be used to reaccelerate the electricity generator rotor to the correct operating speed for an electricity grid. Overall energy efficiency is increased and the minimum operating high pressure manifold pressure may be reduced as a result.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2011
    Publication date: January 10, 2013
    Applicant: MITSUBISHI HEAVY INDUSTRIES, LTD.
    Inventors: Niall Caldwell, Daniil Dumnov, Michael Fielding, Stephen Laird, Uwe Stein, Jamie Taylor
  • Publication number: 20130008153
    Abstract: A tool coupler assembly for a machine is disclosed. The tool coupler assembly may have a coupler frame, a first latch, a second latch, and a hydraulic actuator connected to move the second latch relative to the first latch and the coupler frame. The hydraulic actuator may have a first chamber, a second chamber, and a pressure valve with a check element movable to allow a flow of fluid into the first chamber based on a pressure of fluid in the first chamber, and a pressure regulating element movable to allow a flow of fluid out of the first chamber based on a pressure of fluid in the second chamber. The tool coupler assembly may additionally have a first pilot passage configured to communicate fluid from the second chamber with the pressure-regulating element, and a second pilot passage configured to communicate fluid from the first chamber with the pressure-regulating element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Publication date: January 10, 2013
    Inventors: Trent Randall STEFEK, Troy Curtis Robl
  • Publication number: 20130000293
    Abstract: A pump system includes a closed-loop fluid circuit and an open-loop fluid circuit. The closed-loop fluid circuit includes a motor for rotating a first component connected to the closed-loop fluid circuit. A closed-loop pump drives the motor up to a first maximum rotational speed. The open-loop fluid circuit includes an open-loop pump for driving a second component connected to the open-loop fluid circuit. A control circuit includes a control valve for switching the outflow from the open-loop pump. The control valve selectively connects the open-loop pump to the closed-loop fluid circuit and simultaneously disconnects the open-loop pump from the open-loop fluid circuit. When the open-loop pump is connected to the closed-loop circuit, the closed-loop pump and the open-loop pump drive the motor at a second rotational speed greater than the first maximum rotational speed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2012
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Applicant: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: Philip James Dybing
  • Publication number: 20130000290
    Abstract: A swing energy recovery system for a machine is disclosed. The swing energy recovery system may have a pump configured to pressurize fluid, a motor driven by a flow of pressurized fluid from the pump, and an energy recovery arrangement configured to receive pressurized fluid discharged from the motor and selectively supply pressurized fluid to the motor. The swing energy recovery system may also have a pressure relief valve associated with the motor, and a controller in communication with the energy recovery arrangement and the pressure relief valve. The controller may be configured to selectively adjust a setting of the pressure relief valve based on an operating condition of the energy recovery arrangement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2011
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Inventors: Jiao ZHANG, Dayao Chen, Pengfei Ma, Tonglin Shang, Lawrence J. Tognetti, Jeffrey L. Kuehn
  • Publication number: 20130000289
    Abstract: A hydraulic control system for a machine is disclosed. The hydraulic control system may have a work tool movable to perform an excavation cycle having a plurality of segments, a motor configured to swing the work tool during the excavation cycle, and a pump configured to pressurize fluid directed to drive the motor. The hydraulic control system may also have at least one accumulator configured to selectively receive fluid discharged from the motor and to discharge fluid to the motor during the plurality of segments, and a controller configured to implement a plurality of modes of operation. Each of the plurality of modes of operation includes a different combination of segments during which the at least one accumulator receives and discharges fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2011
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Inventors: Jiao ZHANG, Tonglin Shang, Peter Spring, Pengfei Ma, Randal N. Peterson, Rustu Cesur
  • Publication number: 20130004278
    Abstract: A hydraulic control system for a machine is disclosed. The hydraulic control system may have a pump configured to pressurize fluid, and a motor driven by a flow of pressurized fluid from the pump. The hydraulic control system may also have a first accumulator configured to receive pressurized fluid discharged from the motor and to selectively supply pressurized fluid to the motor, and a second accumulator configured to receive pressurized fluid discharged from the motor and selectively supply pressurized fluid to the motor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2011
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Inventors: Pengfei MA, Jiao Zhang, Dayao Chen, Tonglin Shang
  • Publication number: 20130000291
    Abstract: A hydraulic circuit is disclosed. The hydraulic circuit may have a pump, a motor, a tank, and an accumulator. The hydraulic circuit may also have a valve movable between a first position at which an output of the pump is fluidly connected to the tank and the accumulator is fluidly connected to the motor, and a second position at which the output of the pump is fluidly connected to the motor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2011
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Inventors: Bryan E. NELSON, Jeremy T. Peterson, Jeffrey L. Kuehn
  • Publication number: 20130000288
    Abstract: A hydraulic control system is disclosed. The hydraulic control system may have a pump configured to pressurize a fluid, an actuator, a position sensor associated with the actuator and configured to generate a first signal indicative of a position of the actuator, and a circuit fluidly connecting the pump to the actuator. The hydraulic control system may also have a valve associated with the circuit and configured to move from a first position, at which fluid relief from the circuit is inhibited, toward a second position, at which fluid is relieved from the circuit through the valve, when a pressure of fluid within the circuit exceeds a threshold setting of the valve. The hydraulic control system may additionally have a controller in communication with the position sensor and the valve. The controller may be configured to selectively cause adjust the threshold setting of the valve based on the first signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2011
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Inventors: Aaron Y. HO, Bryan A. Johnson, Nikhil Jalgaonkar
  • Publication number: 20130000292
    Abstract: A method for overpressure control in a hydraulic system having multiple hydraulic pumps, with each hydraulic pump being connected by a respective hydraulic circuit for actuating a single respective hydraulic actuator, includes actuating a first variable displacement hydraulic pump, the first hydraulic pump being fluidly linked by a first hydraulic circuit to a first hydraulic actuator for powering the first hydraulic actuator. Upon detecting a pressure that exceeds a predetermined threshold pressure, the flow rate of the first hydraulic pump is electronically modified to a second flow rate lower than the first flow rate whereby the pressure in the first hydraulic circuit is reduced to a pressure that is below the predetermined threshold pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2011
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Applicant: CATERPILLAR INC.
    Inventors: BRAD EDLER, VIRAL S. MEHTA, LAWRENCE TOGNETTI, CHRISTOPHER WILLIAMSON
  • Publication number: 20130000294
    Abstract: A system and method of dithering speed and/or torque for shifting a transmission of a vehicle having an engine, a reversible, variable displacement hydraulic motor/pump which can be driven by the engine, a hydraulic accumulator supplied by said motor/pump, and at least one reversible hydraulic driving motor for propelling the vehicle supplied with fluid by the hydraulic accumulator and/or by said motor/pump operating as a pump. A transmission unit connects the engine with the variable displacement hydraulic motor/pump during a first mode of operation (city mode) and connects the engine to a vehicle drive wheel during a second mode of operation. The system utilizes stored hydraulic energy to dither the output of the driving motor in order to achieve quick and smooth shifts between city and highway mode, or between various ranges within the city mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2012
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Inventors: Yisheng Zhang, John Loeffler
  • Publication number: 20120324873
    Abstract: A hydraulic accumulator system for providing pressurized oil to a transmission in a vehicle. The system includes a transmission oil storage chamber to store oil at a predetermined level; and a hydraulic accumulator mounted in the oil storage chamber and including an accumulator piston mounted below the level of oil, separating an accumulator oil area from a remainder of the oil storage area and movable to increase and decrease the oil in the accumulator oil area, and a spring biasing the piston toward the accumulator oil area. The system also has a hydraulic assembly including a first oil passage for removing the oil from the remainder of the oil storage area, a second oil passage for directing oil into and out of the accumulator oil area below the predetermined oil level and a hydraulic circuit directing the oil from the first oil passage into the second oil passage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2011
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Lev Pekarsky, Derek Kinch
  • Publication number: 20120324878
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for hydraulic fluid supply between a hydraulic pump and a hydraulic drive unit, switching hydraulic fluid flow direction to the hydraulic drive unit or stopping hydraulic fluid flow to the hydraulic drive unit when measured hydraulic fluid pressure crosses a predetermined pressure threshold value. The method further comprises calculating an amount of mechanical work done by the hydraulic drive unit and warning an operator or limiting hydraulic fluid flow rate to the hydraulic drive unit when the calculated mechanical work for the drive cycle is less than an expected amount of mechanical work. The apparatus for practicing the method further includes a pressure sensor associated with a hydraulic fluid supply conduit between the pump and the drive unit, and an electronic controller programmed to operate the drive system according to the method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2012
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Inventor: Greg Batenburg
  • Publication number: 20120324876
    Abstract: Embodiments of a subsea accumulator system are disclosed. The system includes a subsea skid structure, a pre-charged fluid accumulator mounted in the subsea skid structure and fluidly coupled to a flowline in the skid structure, and a subsea device coupled to the flowline to receive hydraulic fluid power from the pre-charged fluid accumulator. The system may include a fill port having a releasable connection to selectively couple with a hydraulic fluid supply separate from the skid structure. Certain embodiments may include a subsea pump, instead of a pre-charge, for delivering pressurized fluid to a piston in the accumulator, and multiple accumulators for mixing fluids or discharging the fluids sequentially.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2012
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Applicant: BP Corporation North America Inc.
    Inventors: James Edward Fuselier, Daniel Gutierrez, Luis Javier Gutierrez
  • Publication number: 20120324877
    Abstract: Disclosed are a system for driving a boom of a hybrid excavator, and a method for controlling same. The disclosed system comprises: an electric motor operating by means of a motor or generator; a capacitor for storing electricity generated by the electric motor; a hydraulic pump motor driven by the electric motor to supply working oil to a boom; a boom control valve having a closed circuit for selectively connecting/disconnecting a discharge line and an inlet line of the hydraulic pump motor to/from a head or a load of the boom; a main pump driven by a driving source arranged separately from the motor so as to supply working oil to a bucket, driving motor, or arm; a boom-assisting valve, which connects a discharge line of the main pump to the discharge line of the hydraulic pump motor, such that working oil discharged from the main pump and the hydraulic pump motor can be combined; and a control unit for controlling the electric motor, the hydraulic pump motor, and the boom control valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2010
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Applicant: DOOSAN INFRACORE CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Byung Il Kang
  • Publication number: 20120324875
    Abstract: A method and system for operating a machine having first and second movable elements, first and second hydromechanical movers for moving the first and second movable elements, respectively, and first and second hydraulic pumps linked to the first and second hydromechanical movers, respectively. Movement requests for moving the first and second movable elements are processed such that the movement command to the second hydromechanical mover is reduced by a variable amount based on the magnitude of the first movement request. For commanded first hydromechanical mover movements below a certain level, flow to the second hydromechanical mover may optionally not be reduced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2011
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Applicant: CATERPILLAR INC.
    Inventors: BRAD EDLER, VIRAL S. MEHTA, CHRISTOPHER WILLIAMSON, JEFFREY KUEHN
  • Publication number: 20120324874
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a hydraulic system for controlling a load. The system includes a housing defining an inlet, a first port, and a second port. The system further includes a spool valve and a proportional control element. The spool valve is in fluid communication with the inlet and the second port and the proportional control element is in fluid communication with the first port. The proportional control element can be controllable to exhaust fluid from the first port to a reservoir. In this arrangement, the proportional control element and the spool valve are controlled independently of one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2011
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Applicant: DEERE & COMPANY
    Inventor: Joshua D. Graeve
  • Publication number: 20120324879
    Abstract: A shut off valve is configured to shut off flow from the high pressure fluid line to the high pressure accumulator in a series hydraulic hybrid vehicle in order to quickly raise system pressure in the high pressure fluid line and enable additional torque output from the hydraulic motor for vehicle propulsion. A pressure relief valve is further provided to vent excess flow from the high pressure line to the high pressure accumulator as needed to avoid exceeding a maximum desired system pressure in the high pressure fluid line, thereby providing for safe and efficient hydrostatic operation in the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2011
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Inventor: David J. Haugen
  • Publication number: 20120317964
    Abstract: A closed hydrostatic circuit with variable charge and variable flushing systems is disclosed. A variable displacement charge pump is configured to supply charge fluid and pilot control fluid to the hydrostatic circuit. An electronically controlled pressure regulating valve is in communication with an output of the charge pump and is linked to a controller. When the hydrostatic control system detects a high hydraulic temperature condition, the electronically controlled pressure regulating valve, that is in communication with an output of the charge pump and that is linked to a controller, increases the charge pump flow. A bidirectional variable displacement hydrostatic motor is connected in parallel to two input/output lines. A flush valve is in communication with the hydrostatic motor and both input/output lines. The flush valve and hydrostatic motor are both in communication with the flush orifice and a flush relief valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2011
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Applicant: CATERPILLAR, INC.
    Inventors: Christopher J. Demick, Paul A. Dvorak, William Christopher Swick, Vincent Guyard, Christopher Mark Elliott, Christopher Pruess
  • Publication number: 20120317967
    Abstract: A vehicle includes an internal combustion engine, a first hydraulic pump/motor coupled with the internal combustion engine, and a second hydraulic pump/motor is coupled with at least one driven wheel of the vehicle. A clutch establishes a driving connection between the first hydraulic pump/motor and the internal combustion engine, and selectively interrupts the driving connection when disengaged. At least one vehicle accessory device is coupled to the first hydraulic pump/motor. The at least one vehicle accessory device is operable under power of the internal combustion engine when the clutch is engaged and the internal combustion engine is running, and the at least one vehicle accessory device is operable directly by the first hydraulic pump/motor operating in a motor mode when the clutch is disengaged, regardless of whether or not the internal combustion engine is running. A corresponding method of operating the vehicle is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2011
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Applicant: ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
    Inventor: William Donohue
  • Publication number: 20120323429
    Abstract: A control system for a hydraulic system comprises an electronic control module, an electronic system controller, a remote power module, and a solenoid valve. The electronic control module monitors torque output of an internal combustion engine, an electric motor and generator. The electronic system controller monitors torque demand of a first and a second hydraulic circuit. The remote power module is in electrical communication with the electronic system controller. The solenoid valve is in electrical communication with the remote power module. The solenoid valve connects to a combination valve and has a first open position and a closed position. The combination valve is in fluid communication with a first hydraulic circuit and a second hydraulic circuit. The solenoid valve moves to the open position in response to an output signal from the electronic system controller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2010
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Applicant: International Truck Intellectual Property Company LLC
    Inventor: Jay E. Bissontz
  • Publication number: 20120317965
    Abstract: The present a hydraulic system and a method for operating a hydraulic system that includes an engine, at least one hydraulic pump, a pump box interposed between the engine and the at least one hydraulic pump, at least one hydraulic clutch pack interposed between the pump box and the at least one hydraulic pump, at least one valve, a hydraulic fluid reservoir, a clutch actuation pump, and one or more electronics. The at least one hydraulic clutch pack selectively transmits torque to the at least one hydraulic pump. The at least one valve may be opened to supply pressurized hydraulic fluid to the at least one clutch pack and may be closed to interrupt a supply of pressurized hydraulic fluid to the at least one clutch pack in order to selectively engage or disengage the clutch pack.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2010
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Applicant: VOLVO CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT AB
    Inventor: Francis Edward Pagnotta, JR.
  • Publication number: 20120312004
    Abstract: A device (1) for performing mechanical work and/or producing electrical or thermal energy, the energy necessary for operation is obtained from the oxidation of carbonaceous fuels (20) into carbon dioxide (24) and water (23). The device comprises means (14) for compression and/or condensation of the exhaust gas (21), and storage means (15) for receiving the compressed and/or condensed exhaust gas (21).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2011
    Publication date: December 13, 2012
    Inventor: Mikael Rüdlinger
  • Publication number: 20120312003
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and to a working equipment for actuating a hydraulically movable working element (24), which is provided on a main body (14) of a working equipment (11), comprising at least one main cylinder (19) and at least one additional cylinder (28), which are supplied with pressure medium to generate a pivoting movement, wherein the pivoting movement in the rapid motion mode is actuated in a first working pressure range of the hydraulic control device (32), the pivoting movement in a working motion mode is actuated in a second working pressure range, which is higher than the first working pressure range, the pivoting movement in the heavy load motion mode is actuated in a third working pressure range, which is higher than the first and second working pressure ranges, and the pivoting movement of the working element (24) in the operating modes of rapid motion, working motion or heavy load motion is actuated in accordance with the prevailing working pressure. (See FIG. 1b).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2011
    Publication date: December 13, 2012
    Inventor: Wolfgang Gmelin
  • Publication number: 20120312496
    Abstract: Apparatus (1) for storing energy includes a high pressure storage vessel (10) for receiving high pressure gas, the high pressure storage vessel (10) including a high pressure heat store including a first chamber housing a first gas-permeable heat storage structure (14); and a low pressure storage vessel (11,12) for receiving low pressure gas, the low pressure storage vessel (11,12) including a low pressure heat store including a second chamber housing a second gas-permeable heat storage structure (16,18. The first heat storage structure (14) has a mean surface area per unit volume which is higher than a mean surface area per unit volume of the second heat storage structure (16,18).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2011
    Publication date: December 13, 2012
    Applicant: Isentropic Limited
    Inventors: Jonathan Sebastian Howes, James Macnaghten
  • Publication number: 20120304637
    Abstract: A closed-loop hydraulic apparatus 200 for converting wave energy comprises a pump 201 for pumping a fluid through the apparatus 200. The pump 201 includes a body 202 defining a chamber 203, and a piston 207 that partitions the chamber 203 into a working side 208 and a blind side 209. A buoyant actuator is connected to the piston 207. An inlet 64 is connected to the working side 208 of the chamber 203 so that the fluid is able to flow from the inlet 64 and into the working side 208 of the chamber 203. An outlet 63 is connected to the working side 208 of the chamber 203 so that the fluid is able to flow from the working side 208 of the chamber 203 to the outlet 63. A hydraulic controller 102 is operable to control the pump 201 by controlling the pressure of the fluid at the inlet 64 and the outlet 63 so as to optimise the output of the pump 201 in response to tidal variations and/or sea state. The pressure of the fluid at the inlet 64 and the outlet 63 is controlled in accordance with a control algorithm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2010
    Publication date: December 6, 2012
    Applicant: CETO IP Pty Ltd.
    Inventors: Greg John Allen, Ruud Caljouw, Jonathan Pierre Fievez, David Kessel, Nigel Laxton, Laurence Drew Mann
  • Publication number: 20120304632
    Abstract: The Oil Jet for Increased Efficiency system makes use of internally developed, and stored, oil pressure to direct additional force to assist moving parts in an internal combustion engine, rotating device of any nature, and/or any power producing mechanism, to assist in overcoming frictional, compression, drag, and other resistive forces within said mechanism in order to increase efficiency. Applications include, but are not limited to, timed application of said oil jet to assist in compression and exhaust strokes. Stead-state and/or timed application to rotating parts, including flywheel, alternator, transmission parts and other rotating parts to provide continuous additional force to assist in overcoming mechanical, frictional and other losses within the system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2012
    Publication date: December 6, 2012
    Inventor: Scott Clair Pockrandt
  • Publication number: 20120304631
    Abstract: A hydraulic fluid system for a mobile machine includes a closed loop hydraulic fan circuit. The hydraulic fan circuit includes a primary pump, a motor fluidly connected to the primary pump, and a fan driven by the motor. The hydraulic fan circuit also includes a supply passage extending from the primary pump to the motor, a return passage extending from the motor to the primary pump, and a first accumulator selectively fluidly connected to at least one of the supply and return passages via a charge valve. The hydraulic fluid system also includes at least one open loop hydraulic circuit fluidly connected to the first accumulator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2011
    Publication date: December 6, 2012
    Inventors: Bryan E. NELSON, Jeremy T. Peterson
  • Publication number: 20120297758
    Abstract: A large displacement hydrostatic variator is disclosed which includes an input shaft coupled to at least first and second hydrostatic pumps. Two hydrostatic pumps are utilized instead of one larger hydrostatic pump because it has been found the two smaller hydrostatic pumps can operate at a faster speed than a larger hydrostatic pump with a displacement equivalent to that of the two smaller hydrostatic pumps. Each hydrostatic pump may include a carrier that includes a plurality of recesses. The recesses may serve as cylinders for slidably accommodating a piston in each piston of each pump may be pivotally coupled to an adjustable swash plate. A hydrostatic motor may be coupled to an output shaft. The motor includes a carrier that also includes a plurality of recesses that may also serve as cylinders for each slidably accommodating a piston. Each piston of the motor may be coupled to a swash plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2011
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Applicant: CATERPILLAR, INC.
    Inventors: Bryan Edward Nelson, Jeffrey Kuehn
  • Publication number: 20120299303
    Abstract: A wave energy converter (10) for extracting energy from waves in a body of liquid. The converter (10) comprises an inflatable sleeve (12) having an air inlet (14) at or towards one end and an air outlet (18) at or towards its other end. A flexible diaphragm (22) is located within the sleeve (12) so as to extend lengthwise thereof. The diaphragm (22) is sealingly engaged with the sleeve (12) along opposed, elongate edges (22a,22b) thereof. A flexible spine (24) is retained within the diaphragm (22) so as to extend lengthwise thereof. The spine (24) is fixed with the diaphragm (22), relative to the sleeve (12), at or towards each end of the sleeve (12). The converter (10) also comprises a loading device operable to apply an axial compressive force to the spine (24) relative to the sleeve (12) such that, on operation of the loading device, the spine (24) and the diaphragm (22) are buckled into a waveform (26) constrained within the sleeve (12).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2010
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Inventors: Norman West Bellamy, Neil Michael Bellamy, Robert Ian Smith
  • Publication number: 20120291426
    Abstract: The system according to the invention comprises a rotary shaft (50), a compressor (54) mounted integral with the rotary shaft (50), a power turbine (52) capable of rotating the rotary shaft (50), a cold expansion turbine (56) rotated by the rotary shaft (50) and supplied with a compressed gas from the compressor (54) toward the cold turbine (56). The system (22) comprises an upstream assembly (42) supplying outside air to the aircraft not having passed through a propulsion engine (16A, 16B) of the aircraft, the upstream supply assembly (42) being connected to an inlet of the compressor (54).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: DASSAULT AVIATION
    Inventor: Renaud LOISON
  • Publication number: 20120285155
    Abstract: A hydraulic motor having a cooling system includes a stator, a rotor that rotates and orbits in the stator, a drive link connected to the rotor, and a housing connected with the stator. The housing includes a working fluid inlet port, a working fluid outlet port, a cooling fluid inlet port, and a cooling fluid outlet port. Each port extends through the housing and is configured to connect with a different associated external fluid line. Pressurized fluid enters the working fluid inlet port to rotate and orbit the rotor en route to the working fluid outlet port. The cooling fluid ports are isolated from the working fluid inlet port and the working fluid outlet port within the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2012
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Applicant: WHITE DRIVE PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventor: Richard Daigre
  • Publication number: 20120285153
    Abstract: A system includes a high pressure accumulator; a low pressure reservoir; and a plurality of pumps configured to control the flow of fluid between the high pressure accumulator and the low pressure reservoir, a battery; an electric motor powered by the battery; a management unit in communication with the electric motor and the plurality of pumps.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2012
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Applicant: Victory Truck & Bus Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Christopher Christiansen
  • Publication number: 20120285154
    Abstract: In various embodiments, efficiency of energy storage and recovery systems employing compressed air and liquid heat exchange is improved via control of the system operation and/or the properties of the heat-exchange liquid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2012
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Applicant: SUSTAINX, INC.
    Inventors: Benjamin Bollinger, Patrick Magari, Troy O. McBride
  • Publication number: 20120279209
    Abstract: The invention relates to methods and systems for the storage and recovery of energy using open-air hydraulic-pneumatic accumulator and intensifier arrangements that combine at least one accumulator and at least one intensifier in communication with a high-pressure gas storage reservoir on a gas-side of the circuits and a combination fluid motor/pump, coupled to a combination electric generator/motor on the fluid side of the circuits.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2012
    Publication date: November 8, 2012
    Inventors: Troy O. McBride, Benjamin R. Bollinger
  • Patent number: 8296024
    Abstract: The described system and method allow a controller to calibrate a transmission variator of a continuously variable transmission for torque control by obtaining static and dynamic qualities and parameters of the variator through an automated calibration procedure. The system and method employ a pair of transmission mode configurations and operational configurations in combination to obtain system-specific information. In this way, the system is able to calibrate out the system variations to provide effective feed forward torque control of the continuously variable transmission. In an embodiment, a first calibration operation is performed while the transmission is neutralized and a second calibration operation is performed while the transmission is engaged in a mode providing a fixed variator output speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Jason Stoller, Chad Brickner, Brian Lister