With Interrelated Controls Patents (Class 74/733.1)
  • Patent number: 10808804
    Abstract: The invention relates to a transmission for a vehicle, in particular for a teleboom handler or for a backhoe loader, the transmission comprising: an input shaft; a first clutching assembly drivingly engaged with the input shaft; a second clutching assembly drivingly engaged with the first clutching assembly; a third clutching assembly drivingly engaged with the second clutching assembly; and an output clutching assembly drivingly engaged with the third clutching assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2020
    Assignee: Dana Belgium N.V.
    Inventors: Matthias Byltiauw, Benoit Vandevoorde, Mark R. J. Versteyhe
  • Patent number: 9531778
    Abstract: Disclosed are systems and methods for controlling an amount and rate of security related information (e.g., content encryption or rights management information) being transmitted in a content stream to a user device. In one aspect, the disclosure provides a method and related apparatuses for reducing bandwidth usage required when sending transitional security related information during a transition point of different content in a content stream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2016
    Assignee: Combined Conditional Access Development and Support, LLC
    Inventors: Kenneth Miller, Lawrence Tang
  • Patent number: 9097342
    Abstract: The method of estimating and controlling driveline torque in a continuously variable hydro-mechanical transmission uses pressure data and other metrics of a hydrostatic power unit of the transmission in lieu of actual driveline torque data. A mechanical efficiency of the transmission is determined as a function of whether the power unit is operating in a power generation or regeneration mode, and the torque output of the power unit is estimated from that and other hydrostatic parameters. This is used to estimate a torque output of a planetary power unit of the transmission, and the torque on an output member of the driveline is then estimated using that value, and appropriate corrective action taken.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2015
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventors: Peter J. Dix, Garth H. Bulgrien, Robert C. Prasse, Cecil A. Weeramantry, Haibo Guo
  • Patent number: 9068648
    Abstract: An automated transmission comprises a hydraulic control device and one or more hydraulically actuated gear units. The hydraulic control device comprises a control unit for setting actuating pressures on the gear units; a base pressure control valve for adjusting a hydraulic base pressure of the hydraulic control device; and a device for controlling the base pressure control valve dependent on the actuating pressures. The automated transmission further comprises a device for switching through an actuating hydraulic pressure to the base pressure control valve. A method comprises the method steps of adjusting a hydraulic base pressure at the hydraulic control device; adjusting actuating pressures for actuating one or more transmission units; switching through one of the actuating pressures to the base pressure control valve; and adjusting the hydraulic base pressure by one of the actuating pressures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2015
    Assignee: Getrag Ford Transmissions GmbH
    Inventor: Reinhard Moehlmann
  • Patent number: 9032840
    Abstract: A vehicle transmission includes at least one rotatable component and is disposed in an environment at a first pressure. A transmission housing includes a sump portion disposed near a bottom portion of the transmission housing, where the transmission housing substantially encloses the at least one rotatable component. A hydraulic fluid is disposed at least partially in the sump portion of the transmission housing and a vacuum source is in pneumatic communication with the transmission housing. The vacuum source at least partially evacuates a gas from the transmission housing so that an interior of the transmission housing is at a second pressure. The at least one rotatable component is partially exposed to a gas at the second pressure and partially submerged in the hydraulic fluid when the transmission is under a predetermined dynamic load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2015
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, LLC
    Inventor: Gregory P. Prior
  • Patent number: 8826760
    Abstract: An automatic transmission having high pressure actuation and low pressure lube includes a hydraulic circuit (110) having a source of pressurized fluid (112), an actuation circuit (114) that delivers pressurized fluid to actuate components of the transmission, and a cooling circuit (116) used to cool components of the transmission. The source of pressurized fluid includes a motor 118, a first pump 120 operatively driven by the motor 118, and a second pump 122 selectively driven by motor 118. A clutch mechanism 124 is connected between the motor 118 and the second pump 122 so as to selectively engage and disengage the second pump 122 in driven relationship with the motor 118 so that the second pump 122 selectively supplies pressurized fluid to the cooling circuit 116 when the clutch mechanism 124 is engaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: BorgWarner Inc.
    Inventors: Keith Feldt, Melissa Koenig, Christopher S. Vangorder, Alexander Moser
  • Publication number: 20140157955
    Abstract: A gearbox system includes a gearbox having integrated therein a pump system, a plurality of fluid passages and a clutch control system. The pump system is in fluid communication with the clutch control system via the fluid passages to flow at least one pressurized stream. A first pressurized stream controls a first pressure-responsive device included in the clutch control system. The gearbox system further includes a hydro-mechanical control unit (HMCU) in fluid communication with the gearbox to receive a second pressurized stream and to generate at least one actuator control stream. The actuator control stream controls an actuator integrated in the gearbox.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2012
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Inventors: Timothy P. Walgren, JR., Dean A. Norem, Charles L. DeGeorge, Alex Rak, Raymond N. Weyl, Ricky D. Reimers
  • Publication number: 20140137702
    Abstract: A vehicle control system (100) includes a rotary electric machine unit (40), a PCU (14) including an inverter circuit, and a controller (18). The rotary electric machine unit (40) includes a casing defining an interior space and containing a rotary electric machine and a lubricating cooling fluid disposed therein and a cover, and a breather (70) which is connected to the interior space via an on-off valve (58). The on-off valve (58) is normally in an open state. The controller (18) outputs a valve-closing signal to the on-off valve (58) when a single phase short circuit fault occurs in the inverter circuit which drives the rotary electric machine. A mechanical mechanism can also be used to place the on-off valve (58) into a closed state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 22, 2013
    Publication date: May 22, 2014
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Tsukashima, Hirotaka Kamijo, Tomoko Shimana, Daisuke Umiguchi
  • Patent number: 8567286
    Abstract: At pre-shift of a shift control, a line pressure control section determines a pressure raising amount ?PL of a line pressure PL on the basis of a pressure raising amount map stored in a memory, and controls a line pressure controlling linear solenoid valve so that the line pressure PL regulated by a regulator valve is raised by this pressure raising amount ?PL. For example, a control hydraulic pressure corresponding to the pressure raising amount ?PL is applied to the regulator valve from the line pressure controlling linear solenoid valve. Thus, hydraulic oil supplied from an oil pump is mostly discharged from an output port for the line pressure PL. Therefore, although there is a possibility that the line pressure PL regulated within a line pressure circuit somewhat varies when stroke of a hydraulic piston starts, a decrease of the line pressure PL is suppressed sufficiently compared with the case where the line pressure PL is not raised as a conventional manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shohei Taka, Masayuki Sadakiyo
  • Patent number: 8561503
    Abstract: An example mechanical transmission assembly receives an input rotating at a first rotational speed and provides an output rotating at a second rotational speed. The mechanical transmission selectively adjusts the second rotational speed. The input is provided by a prime mover. The output is provided to a hydraulic pump assembly that rotatably drives a motor-generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation
    Inventors: Glenn C. Lemmers, Jr., David S. Behling
  • Patent number: 8522644
    Abstract: When shift transmission of an automatic transmission is performed in a free-run state, a driving force control apparatus controls a degree of engagement of an engaging device in accordance with a hydraulic difference between a first hydraulic pressure and a second hydraulic pressure in a condition that the first hydraulic pressure does not reach the second hydraulic pressure. As a result, an oil pump supplies a hydraulic pressure to the automatic transmission, and the shift transmission can be performed. The first hydraulic pressure is a hydraulic pressure of the automatic transmission. The second hydraulic pressure is a hydraulic pressure required to perform the shift transmission. The engaging device can adjust an extent of transmission power between an engine and the automatic transmission in accordance with the degree of engagement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Hitoshi Matsunaga, Yoji Takanami
  • Patent number: 8333131
    Abstract: A device (2) for a vehicle drivetrain (1) with a transmission unit (3) for changing various transmission ratios. The device (2) comprising a reversing gear system (4) arranged on an input side of the transmission for reversing the rotational direction. A hydrodynamic torque converter device (5) located upstream of the reversing gear system (4). A hydraulic device (6) which, in the power flow direction is located between the reversing gear system (4) and the transmission unit (3) and can be brought into active connection with them for producing a torque that can be applied in the area between the reversing gear system (4) and the transmission unit (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventor: Jurgen Legner
  • Patent number: 8266986
    Abstract: A hydraulic control system for a transmission includes a motor, a sump for storing a hydraulic fluid, and a dual element pump connected to the motor. The dual element pump has at least one input port connected to the sump, a first outlet port, and a second outlet port. The dual element pump provides a first volume of hydraulic fluid to the first outlet port and provides a second volume of hydraulic fluid to the second outlet port. The first volume is greater than the second volume. The first outlet port is connected to a diversion valve. The second outlet port is connected to a high pressure hydraulic circuit. The diversion valve is operable to transmit the hydraulic fluid from the first outlet port to a low pressure hydraulic circuit and the high pressure hydraulic circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Alan G. Holmes, Jy-Jen F. Sah, Kevin Michael Dougan, Norman Schoenek, Michael R. Schmidt
  • Publication number: 20120017724
    Abstract: An ECU executes a program including the steps of: starting monitoring the turbine revolution speed and the output shaft revolution speed when a direct shift is started (YES in S100) (S102); performing complete disengagement control on a disengagement element (1) (S106), lowering control pressure of a disengagement element (2) to preliminarily fixed control pressure (S110); starting engagement control on an engagement element (1) when a set time period Is (1) passes (YES in S112) (S114); performing complete disengagement control on the disengagement element (2) when a set time period Is (2) passes (YES in S118) (S120); and starting the engagement control on an engagement element (2) when turbine revolution speed NT is equal to or larger than (the synchronous revolution speed of a gear after a shift—a set value Ns) (YES in. S 122) (S 124).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2011
    Publication date: January 26, 2012
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Eiji FUKUSHIRO, Keisuke Ota, Koji Oshima
  • Publication number: 20110303049
    Abstract: A control system for controlling a dual clutch transmission having a synchronizer assembly includes a motor for selectively providing an output torque in a first and second to both of a first and a second output member. A one-way device is interconnected to the first output member and is operable to transmit the output torque in the first rotational direction. A pump is connected to the one-way device. A disconnect device is interconnected to the second output member. The torque disconnect device is operable to decouple the motor from a cam or a torque multiplication device. The cam includes at least one groove having a configuration corresponding to synchronizer assembly positions. A shift fork is disposed in the groove and is operable to translate the synchronizer assembly. Rotation of the cam translates the shift fork and the synchronizer assembly between at least a neutral position and an engaged position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2010
    Publication date: December 15, 2011
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Vijay A. Neelakantan, Bret M. Olson
  • Publication number: 20110290074
    Abstract: A power split transmission includes a first power branch having a continuously variable transmission and a separable second power branch. The two power branches are combined again in a summation gear and a device connects or disconnects the second branch when a synchronous condition is present when changing from an initial driving range into a target driving range. A control device for controlling and adjusting the transmission ratio of the first power branch is connected to the continuously variable transmission. A predicting device for predicting an efficiency ?v of the first power branch in a target driving range is connected to the control device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2009
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Applicant: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Horst Schulte, Jürgen Winkelbake, Thomas Anderl
  • Patent number: 7854182
    Abstract: A work vehicle includes a hydrostatic continuously variable speed-change device, a gear type multiple-stage speed-change device disposed downstream of the hydrostatic continuously variable speed-change device with respect to a direction in which power is transmitted, first and second oil passages, a bypass oil passage communicating the first and second oil passages with each other, a valve mechanism for opening and closing the bypass oil passage, and a manual operating member provided in a driving section for opening and closing the valve mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Assignee: Kubota Corporation
    Inventors: Yasunobu Nakatani, Fumitake Okunishi, Yoshifumi Horiuchi, Hiroki Bessho, Yoshihiro Kawahara, Mitsugu Kobayashi, Shinichiro Saji, Masaki Hayashi
  • Publication number: 20090301258
    Abstract: A power transmission implementing continuously variable transmission using a succession of gear sets. A first constant ratio gear-set receives torque and rotation from a motor and a second constant ratio gear set provides torque and rotation to a driven device. These two gear-sets each employ three gear elements such that the first gear-set receives power in one shaft and provides power in two shafts. The second gear set receives power in two different shafts and provides power in one shaft. Two drive chains transmit rotation and torque from the first gear-set to the second gear-set, in between the two gear sets the rotation is reversed in one drive chain. A control over the total gearing ratio of the transmission is provided by transient application of power to modify the rotation rate of one branch. In one embodiment fluid couplings are employed for transmission of power in each drive chain.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2004
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Inventor: Giora Ledereich
  • Patent number: 7588510
    Abstract: A hydro-mechanical transmission for an agriculture vehicle, such as a tractor. The transmission includes an input shaft, a hydrostatic unit driven by the input shaft, a mechanical transmission driven by the hydrostatic unit and/or the input shaft, and a valve assembly having a pressure control valve assembly to control an output speed of the hydrostatic unit. A mechanical shift control valve assembly is coupled with the mechanical transmission to selectively engage one of the gear sets of the mechanical transmission and adjust the hydrostatic unit speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2009
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventor: Douglas R. Johnson
  • Patent number: 7575111
    Abstract: A clutch apply control valve switches between a first position and a second position based on a control pressure PDS1 and a control pressure PDS2. When both the control pressure PDS1 and the control pressure PDS2 are output, the clutch apply control valve switches from the first position to the second position and outputs the control pressure PDS2. As a result, a lockup control valve switches to an OFF position. Accordingly, a dedicated solenoid valve for controlling operation of the clutch apply control valve can be eliminated, thus reducing both size and cost while enabling a lockup clutch to be released even if there is an ON failure of a solenoid valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yusuke Ogata, Yoshinobu Soga
  • Patent number: 7412913
    Abstract: An oil pump driving apparatus including a rotation shaft in driving connection with a torque converter, a drive sprocket rotatable about the rotation shaft and adapted to be connected with a driven sprocket disposed on the oil pump via the chain, a first sleeve disposed on a radial outside of the rotation shaft so as to be rotatable together with the torque converter, the first sleeve being engaged with the drive sprocket, a second sleeve fixedly disposed on a radial inside of the first sleeve, a first bearing supporting the first sleeve so as to be rotatable relative to the second sleeve, and a second bearing supporting the drive sprocket so as to be rotatable relative to the second sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2008
    Assignee: JATCO Ltd
    Inventors: Masanori Ishikawa, Yuji Takahashi, Hiromu Soya
  • Patent number: 7296496
    Abstract: A method of reducing speed in a hydrostatic drive work machine, and a hydrostatic drive work machine are provided. The method includes the steps of retarding the work machine by at least one of, upstroking a variable displacement hydraulic motor thereof, and downstroking a variable displacement pump coupled with the motor. An offgoing clutch pressure is dropped after each of the motor and pump displacements reaches a predetermined point. The steps of slowing the work machine are carried out by adjusting the respective displacements at rates based on a predetermined acceleration limit and/or a predetermined jerk limit of the work machine. The hydrostatic drive work machine further includes an electronic control module having a control algorithm recorded thereon for to neutral.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventor: Vaibhav H. Shah
  • Patent number: 7228762
    Abstract: A method of regulating a travelling speed of an agricultural machine includes providing a diesel engine to drive a variable displacement pump, the variable displacement pump connected by a hydraulic line to at least one hydraulic motor connected to a running gear so as to drive the agricultural machine at the travelling speed. The method further includes measuring a speed of the diesel engine, and providing a delivery volume from the variable displacement pump via the hydraulic line to the at least one hydraulic motor in proportion to the measured speed of the diesel engine, where a speed of the at least one hydraulic motor controls the travelling speed of the agricultural machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2007
    Assignee: CNH America LLC
    Inventors: Ingo Mende, Henri Scholtke
  • Patent number: 7047840
    Abstract: A power transmission apparatus for an engine of a vehicle. The apparatus includes a starting clutch for smoothly connecting rotation of a crankshaft to a transmission upon starting of the vehicle, a hydrostatic continuously variable transmission for performing speed change depending upon a capacity difference between a swash plate hydraulic pump and a swash plate hydraulic motor to transmit rotation of the crankshaft at a reduced speed to a driving wheel, and a slider for moving a ball screw back and forth to change the angle of the swash plate of the swash plate hydraulic motor. The starting clutch can be a torque converter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Katsuhiko Ito, Yoshiaki Hori, Mitsuru Saito
  • Patent number: 6952981
    Abstract: A hydrodynamic 2-speed turbine drive, in particular, a turbine drive for application in under-floor or low-floor drive systems on rail vehicles, with two hydrodynamic components for the formation of two tractive-work circuits for two different speed ranges. A first hydrodynamic component is in the form of a hydrodynamic speed/torque converter and a second hydrodynamic component is in the form of a hydrodynamic clutch. The converter and the clutch are arranged parallel to each other and with no, or very little, offset between drive input shaft and drive output shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2005
    Assignee: Voith Turbo GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Wolfgang Fischer, Hubert Schmölz
  • Patent number: 6953416
    Abstract: A traveling gear for an agricultural working machine configured to adjust an engine speed so as to control the traveling speed of the agricultural working machine for road travel. The traveling gear generally controls the traveling speed of the machine by controlling a central driving gear. The traveling gear generally includes a diesel engine as its central motive power source, a variable displacement pump driven by the diesel engine, an electro-hydraulic motor with an adjustable induction volume, and a pair of electro-hydraulic motors which are switchable in their induction volume. For a change in speed, the displacement volume of the variable displacement pump is adjusted. The change in displacement of the variable displacement pump causes a change in speed of the electro-hydraulic motors, which in turn causes a corresponding change in speed of the traveling gear and associated traveling speed of the agricultural machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2005
    Assignee: CNH America LLC
    Inventors: Ingo Mende, Henri Scholtke
  • Patent number: 6857986
    Abstract: An apparatus for controlling a plurality of hydraulic motors and a clutch is capable of reliably implementing a sequence for engaging and disengaging the clutch and for fixing and clearing a zero tilt rotation amounts of the hydraulic motors, thereby preventing a speed change shock or load slip in the hydraulic motors. The apparatus includes zero tilt rotation fixing means (10A), a clutch (5), hydraulic vehicle speed detecting means (32A), and control valve means (30A) that releases an output command pressure to a return pressure connected to a tank (19) until a vehicle speed signal pressure to be received reaches a start pressure of a predetermined value, and begins to output the command pressure to the zero tilt rotation fixing means and the clutch when the vehicle speed signal pressure exceeds a predetermined value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.
    Inventors: Masanori Ikari, Nobuo Matsuyama
  • Patent number: 6848548
    Abstract: Hydraulic control system for a vehicle transmission connected to an output shaft from a hydraulic torque converter (1) with a hydraulically operated disc clutch for locking the torque converter and which has two hydraulically operated disc clutches for shifting. The control system has a low pressure circuit (30) with a low-pressure pump feeding fluid through the torque converter, and a high pressure circuit (34) with a high-pressure pump (35), which feeds fluid via valves (38) to the disc clutches. The high-pressure pump has variable displacement, which is regulated by the operating pressure of the disc clutch of the torque converter, so that the high-pressure pump is set to a lower displacement when this last-mentioned clutch is engaged than when it is disengaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2005
    Assignee: Volvo Lastvagnar AB
    Inventor: Sverker Alfredsson
  • Patent number: 6774780
    Abstract: In a system for the control of an automatic or automated vehicle variable transmission (2) with a transmission control (6) and a display device (20, 22, 24) for the driver, the display device (20) is provided in order to indicate to the driver the imminent gear shift. After advanced indication of the gear shift, the driver can make a correction engagement in the transmission control (6) or prevent the gear shift.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventor: Harald Neubecker
  • Patent number: 6729990
    Abstract: The automatic transmission for motor vehicles, especially with transverse drive with six gear steps, has a main wheel train (2), a front-mounted wheel train (1) and five wet running clutches and brakes (A to E) and is connected to the output shaft of an internal combustion engine via a torsional-vibration damper; the front-mounted wheel train (1) located in force flow direction before the main wheel train (2) is spatially situated behind the main wheel train (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventor: Josef Haupt
  • Patent number: 6622835
    Abstract: An electro-hydraulic control mechanism provides controlled engagement pressure for both a torque converter clutch and a shifting torque transmitting mechanism. The control mechanism include a TCC regulator valve that establishes the engagement pressure for the torque converter clutch and a TTM regulator valve that controls the engagement pressure for the torque transmitting mechanisms. An electronically-controlled variable bleed solenoid controls the output pressure level of both of the regulator valves. A control valve is employed to multiplex the output of the regulator valves and to ensure that the torque transmitting mechanism remains engaged during the engagement of the torque converter clutch. The control valve also ensure that the output pressure of the TTM regulator valve is communicated with a manual control valve in the event of an unexpected discontinuance of electrical power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Steven Patrick Moorman, Todd Roy Berger, Brian W. Whitmarsh
  • Patent number: 6622594
    Abstract: An apparatus for controlling a plurality of hydraulic motors and a clutch is capable of reliably implementing a sequence for engaging and disengaging the clutch and for fixing and clearing a zero tilt rotation amounts of the hydraulic motors, thereby preventing a speed change shock or load slip in the hydraulic motors. The apparatus includes zero tilt rotation fixing means (10A), a clutch (5), hydraulic vehicle speed detecting means (32A), and control valve means (30A) that releases an output command pressure to a return pressure connected to a tank (19) until a vehicle speed signal pressure to be received reaches a start pressure of a predetermined value, and begins to output the command pressure to the zero tilt rotation fixing means and the clutch when the vehicle speed signal pressure exceeds a predetermined value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.
    Inventors: Masanori Ikari, Nobuo Matsuyama
  • Patent number: 6505529
    Abstract: A reversing transmission shiftable under load in which the reversing clutches (1, 2) are automatically evacuated by the flow of pressure medium through the clutch (1, 2) not subjected to pressure wherein bores (9, 24), which in this shifting state, are connected to the oil reservoir (5) are placed at the highest point of the piston chamber. The shifting clutches (1, 2) are configured as negative clutches. For modulating the pressure during a reverse shift, an accumulator (27, 28) is provided from which pressure medium flows out via orifices (25, 29). For inching a valve (30) is provided via which the closed clutch (1, 2) can be subjected to a pressure whose level can be continuously varied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Jürgen Legner, Eduard Heilig
  • Patent number: 6481314
    Abstract: The present invention provides a vehicle traveling control apparatus for a vehicle with an HST and a mechanical transmission, which are connected in tandem to each other and interposed in a traveling power transmission path between a driving power source and driving wheels. The vehicle traveling control apparatus includes a speed-change control mechanism which in turn includes a signal detection part and a control part for controlling the changing of the output speed of the HST and the shifting operation of the mechanical transmission. The signal detection part includes a load-torque detection means. The control part is designed to control the mechanical transmission and the HST based upon the detected results by the load torque detection means so that where the vehicle lies in a high load torque state, the control part downshifts the mechanical transmission to a lower speed stage, while increasing the output speed of the HST.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Assignee: Kanzaki Kokyukoki Mfg. Co. Ltd.
    Inventors: Shusuke Nemoto, Toshiro Azuma
  • Patent number: 6470771
    Abstract: A transmission system including an automatic transmission having a plurality of speed change modes, including at least a continuously variable speed change node and a steeping speed change mode, and a sub-transmission connected to the automatic transmission. The sub-transmission is capable of switching to one of a plurality of running ranges including at least a forward range, a neutral range, and a reverse range. The transmission system also includes a mode switch for selectively switching to one of the plurality of speed change modes of the automatic transmission, and a shift switch for switching from one speed change stage to another speed change when the stepping speed change mode is active. Functionally of the shift switch and the mode switch are collectively integrated into a common switch, and the common switch is selectively used as the shift switch or the mode switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Takehiko Nanri, Yoshihisa Kanno
  • Patent number: 6457382
    Abstract: A transmission assembly having a variable displacement hydraulic device which controls a ratio of an input speed to an output speed of the hydrostatic transmission is disclosed. The transmission assembly further includes a torque reversing mechanical transmission coupled to the hydrostatic transmission and having a first range and a second range. The transmission assembly further includes an output shaft driven by one or more of the hydrostatic transmission and the mechanical transmission which causes a work machine to move at a travel speed and a controller. The controller is operable to determine a transmission load and an equal displacement travel speed ratio based on the transmission load. A shift from the first gear range to the second gear range is based on the equal displacement travel speed ratio. A method of operating a transmission assembly is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2002
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Michael G. Cronin, Brian D. Kuras
  • Patent number: 6393945
    Abstract: A transmission assembly having a continuously variable transmission, a mechanical transmission coupled to the continuously variable transmission for selecting a first gear range and a second gear range, and a controller for receiving operator inputs and generating commands operable to control an output of the continuously variable transmission is disclosed. The controller executes a first shift between the first gear range and the second gear range at a shift point in response to the commands. The controller places the transmission in a first mode of operation whereby a second shift from the second gear range to the first gear range is inhibited. The controller places the transmission in a second mode of operation where the second shift from the second gear range to the first gear range is allowed when the output progresses beyond the shift point by a first value or the command falls past the shift point by a second value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventor: Brian D. Kuras
  • Publication number: 20020023815
    Abstract: An automatic transmission for a vehicle comprises a torque converter TC equipped with a lock-up clutch 4. This automatic transmission further comprises FIRST˜FOURTH speed clutches 31˜34 for a shift control executing a shift from an off-going speed ratio to an on-coming speed ratio by controlling the release of the hydraulic pressure from the off-going clutch and by controlling the supply of the hydraulic pressure to the on-coming clutch. A control system comprises first and second off-going pressure releasing valves 70 and 80, which release the hydraulic pressure from the off-going clutch during the shift, a lock-up control valve 40 and a lock-up timing valve 50, which control the engagement of the lock-up mechanism, and a linear solenoid valve 60, which supplies a control pressure to these valves and controls the operation of these valves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2001
    Publication date: February 28, 2002
    Applicant: HONDA GIKEN KOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Kimura, Yuuji Okazaki, Masamichi Kagawa
  • Patent number: 6343528
    Abstract: A vehicle driving device includes an engine installed in a vehicle, a fluid coupling actuated by the engine, and a friction clutch disposed between the fluid coupling and a transmission, the fluid coupling,having a lock-up clutch. Controlling means for controlling actuation of the lock-up clutch controls the lock-up clutch so as to be engaged during a gear change operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2002
    Assignee: Isuzu Motors Limited
    Inventors: Yasushi Tamamoto, Nobuyuki Iwao
  • Patent number: 6272950
    Abstract: A drive train comprises an internal combustion engine, a clutchless gearbox, which can be shifted by means of an electronic control unit and by means of actuating devices, without a mechanical synchronizing device, and a hydrostatic gearbox with a hydraulic pump and a hydraulic motor, which are connected in a closed circuit. The rotational speed of the hydraulic motor being controllable in dependence on a control signal to the adjusting device of the hydraulic pump and/or to the adjusting device of the hydraulic motor. The control unit calculates the control signal by means of setpoint input via an accelerator pedal or as a function of the rotational drive speed of the internal combustion engine, with shifting of the transmission stages being possible by means of the actuating devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2001
    Assignees: Sauer-Danfoss Inc., Merlo Spa Industria Metalmeccanica
    Inventors: Tom Braun, Lloyd Taylor
  • Patent number: 6269713
    Abstract: A vehicle which can achieve high speed traveling performance as achieved by a normal vehicle, and which can be continuously driven at inching speed with a traveling prime mover of high revolution speed and high output. The vehicle includes a power train including a primary power transmission for normal traveling, which is connected to a prime mover for normal traveling, for transmitting a rotational torque of the traveling prime mover to driving wheels, through a rotary power transmission shaft, a drive shaft speed reducer and drive shaft, an external power takeoff mechanism incorporated in the primary power transmission, a hydraulic pressure generator connected to an external power takeoff shaft of the external power takeoff mechanism, and a hydraulically controlled power transmission for traveling at inching speed, which includes a hydraulic motor connected to the hydraulic pressure generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2001
    Assignees: Projet Company Limited
    Inventor: Osamu Ohke
  • Patent number: 6260440
    Abstract: A transmission assembly having a hydrostatic transmission with a variable displacement hydraulic device which controls a motor speed ratio. The transmission assembly further includes a mechanical transmission coupled to the hydrostatic transmission and having a first range and a second range and an output shaft driven at a travel speed ratio. The torque through the hydrostatic transmission reverses when the mechanical transmission shifts from the first range to the second range. A synchronous travel speed ratio is the motor speed ratio which produces the same travel speed ratio in both the first gear range and the second gear range. An equal displacement travel speed ratio is the travel speed ratio at which a displacement of the variable displacement device in the second gear range is the same as the displacement in the first gear range. A travel speed ratio differential is a difference between the synchronous speed ratio and the equal displacement travel speed ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2001
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Michael G. Cronin, Brian D. Kuras
  • Patent number: 6250180
    Abstract: A traveling mechanism having a driving motor (24) which drives a feed pump (25) and a hydrostatic variable displacement pump (2), a zero fluctuating hydrostatic variable displacement motor (1) which forms with the hydrostatic variable displacement pump (2) a hydrostatic circuit and a hydrostatically driven 2-speed gear mechanism (11) which is engaged when the torque to be transmitted is minimal and the hydrostatic variable displacement motor (1) is at zero displacement capacity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2001
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Jürgen Legner, Egon Mann, Siegfried Stützle
  • Patent number: 6199450
    Abstract: A drive line assembly for a work machine is disclosed. The drive line assembly includes an engine driving an engine output shaft and an engine speed sensor which generates engine speed signals indicative of a speed of the engine output shaft. The drive line assembly further includes a torque converter driven by the output shaft which drives a transmission input shaft and a transmission speed sensor which generates transmission speed signals indicative of a speed of the transmission input shaft. The drive line assembly yet further includes a transmission driven by the transmission input shaft and having a first speed clutch, a second speed clutch, and a directional clutch, and a controller. The controller is operable to determine a torque converter ratio from the engine speed signal and the transmission speed signal and determine an engine load based on the torque converter ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2001
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas A. Carlson, Danish A. Hussain, Alan L. Stahl