Showing papers on "Drive wheel published in 2006"

Hybrid vehicle drive control system

Abstract: A hybrid vehicle drive control system is configured to perform engine startup when switching from an electric drive mode to a hybrid drive mode, without creating a sense of output torque loss. In particular, a controller selectively controls a first clutch disposed between the engine and the motor/generator and a second clutch disposed between the motor/generator and a drive wheel to switch between an electric drive mode in which the first clutch is released and the second clutch is engaged, and a hybrid drive mode in which both the first and second clutches are engaged. The controller sets the second torque transfer capacity to a value that is more than zero and less than the target motor/generator torque of the motor/generator when switching from the electric drive mode to the hybrid drive mode and when starting the engine.

Hybrid vehicle drive control system

Abstract: A hybrid vehicle drive control system has a first clutch interposed between an engine and a motor/generator, a transmission including several gear position clutches arranged between the motor/generator and a drive wheel, and a controller The controller selectively starts the engine using torque from the first clutch during a drive mode change from an electric drive mode to a hybrid drive mode When an engine start command and a gear shifting operation occur during a drive mode change, the controller selects the gear position clutch that is a common engaged clutch from among the engaged gear position clutches constituting the vehicle running gears occurring from immediately before starting the engine until immediately after starting the engine as a second clutch to be controlled Then, the controller executes a slip control of the second clutch when the first clutch is being connected to start the engine during the drive mode change

Hybrid vehicle control system

Abstract: A hybrid vehicle control system is configured to improve fuel economy by optimizing a torque transfer capacity of a clutch transmitting drive power from both an engine and a motor/generator while the motor torque provides at least part of the drive force. In particular, the system selectively controls a pair of clutches to switch between an electric drive mode and a hybrid drive mode. The torque transfer capacity of the clutch transmitting drive power from both the engine and the motor/generator to a drive wheel includes a motor/generator torque component and an engine torque component. The motor/generator torque component is determined based on a motor/generator torque and a torque transfer capacity margin allowance for the motor/generator torque. The engine torque component is determined based on an engine torque and a torque transfer capacity margin allowance for the engine torque when the drive wheel is driven at least by the motor/generator.

Hybrid vehicle control

Abstract: A hybrid vehicle control system is configured to improve fuel economy by optimizing a torque transfer capacity of a clutch transmitting drive power from both an engine (1) and a motor/generator (5) while the motor torque provides at least part of the drive force. In particular, the system selectively controls a pair of clutches (6,7) to switch between an electric drive mode and a hybrid drive mode. The torque transfer capacity of the clutch (7) transmitting drive power from both the engine (1) and the motor/generator (5) to a drive wheel (2) includes a motor/generator torque component and an engine torque component. The motor/generator torque component is determined based on a motor/generator torque and a torque transfer capacity margin allowance for the motor/generator torque. The engine torque component is determined based on an engine torque and a torque transfer capacity margin allowance for the engine torque when the drive wheel is driven at least by the motor/generator.

Mower suspension system and method

Abstract: In some embodiments, the present invention provides a mower including a frame having a front portion and a rear portion, at least one front wheel coupled to the front portion of the frame, and two drive wheels on substantially opposite sides of the rear portion of the frame. Each drive wheel is coupled to the frame by a first link pivotably coupled at one end to the front portion of the frame and at an opposite end to the drive wheel, and a second link pivotably coupled at one end to the rear portion of the frame and at an opposite end to the drive wheel. The mower also includes at least one spring positioned to bias the drive wheels in a downward direction. Each of the drive wheels are movable upward and downward relative to the frame.

Steering Systems, Steering and Speed Coordination Systems, and Associated Vehicles

Abstract: In a broad respect, vehicles that are capable of making a low- to zero-radius turn using the independent rotation of drive wheels and by turning the non-driving steerable structure or structures (such as wheels) with a steering input device (in some embodiments, the driving wheels also may be capable of being turned). This may be accomplished using a steering system, a speed control system and an integration device (together, a control system) that are configured to work together to provide correct steering in forward and reverse, and, in some embodiments, to reduce the speed of the outboard drive wheel of the vehicle when it enters an extreme turn under constant speed input. Different systems configured for use in such vehicles are included.

Controller of driver for vehicle

Abstract: A control apparatus for a vehicular drive system including (a) a differential portion having a differential mechanism operable to distribute an output of an engine to a first electric motor and a power transmitting member, a second electric motor disposed in a power transmitting path between the power transmitting member and a vehicle drive wheel, and a switching clutch and a switching brake provided in the differential mechanism and operable to limit a differential function of the differential portion, and (b) a step-variable automatic transmission portion constituting a part of the power transmitting path and operable to perform a clutch-to-clutch shifting action by a releasing action of a coupling device and an engaging action of another coupling device, the control apparatus including a step-variable shifting control configured to change an amount of racing of an input speed of the automatic transmission portion during the clutch-to-clutch shifting action, depending upon whether the differential function of the differential portion is limited by the switching clutch and brake.

Portable electricity generating gravity driven wheel system

Abstract: A wheel assembly with tangentially attached fluid receptacles around the perimeter rotates to power a gravity driven fluid electricity generating assembly. A plunger pump assembly with a drive wheel powered by the wheel assembly pumps a quantity of fluid to fill a fluid receptacle with each motion of a lever arm eccentrically attached to the drive wheel.

Control apparatus for vehicular drive system, vehicle provided with the control apparatus, and method of controlling vehicular drive system

Abstract: A control apparatus for a vehicular drive system including a first transmission portion having a differential mechanism operable to distribute an engine output to a first electric motor and a power transmitting member, and a second electric motor disposed in a power transmitting path between the power transmitting member and a drive wheel; and a second transmission portion constituting a part of the power transmitting path. The control apparatus includes a switching device provided in the differential mechanism and operable to selectively place the first transmission portion in a continuously-variable shifting state and in a non-continuously-variable shifting state, rendering the first transmission portion respectively capable or not capable of operating as an electrically controlled continuously variable transmission; and a transmission controller operable to change a speed ratio of the second transmission portion, concurrently with switching of the first transmission portion between the continuously-variable shifting state and the non-continuously-variable shifting state.

Hybrid vehicle drive train and method

Abstract: A drive train for a hybrid vehicle having first, second and third motors includes a first variable transmission, having an input shaft, and an output shaft coupled to a drive wheel of the vehicle, and first, second, and third clutched rotational drive connections. The rotational drive connections selectively interconnect an output shaft of the first, second and third motors, respectively, with the input shaft of the first transmission, whereby torque from each of the three motors can be selectively combined through the variable transmission to drive the drive wheel.

Hybrid power train structure using toroidal variator

Abstract: A hybird power train structure having a toroidal variator. The hybird power train structure is constructed such that drive force generated by an engine and drive force generated by a motor are appropriately combined and transmitted to a drive wheel, thus having a quiet variable speed change characteristic despite having a relatively simple structure.

Method and apparatus for starting an engine in a hybrid vehicle

Abstract: A method and apparatus for starting an engine in a hybrid vehicle being driven by an electric motor is disclosed. The motor is operably configured to deliver mechanical power through an automatic transmission to at least one vehicle drive wheel to cause an acceleration of the vehicle. The method involves coupling the engine to the motor to cause an inertial load on the motor thus causing the motor to decelerate to a reduced rotational speed to provide a starting torque to the engine for starting the engine, and causing the automatic transmission to change gear ratio to a target gear ratio associated with the reduced rotational speed while causing the motor to decelerate, the motor being operable to deliver increased torque at the reduced rotational speed, thereby generally maintaining the acceleration of the vehicle.

Method and apparatus for validating OBD repairs

Abstract: A method is provided for validating emissions component conditions of a vehicle including the steps of operatively placing drivable wheel hubs of the vehicle under load so that the vehicle drive wheel hubs may be driven without vehicle movement and running the vehicle through an associated drive cycle associated with that vehicle. The method further includes the steps of determining if monitored emission components are in a Ready condition at the end of drive cycle, and monitoring for diagnostic trouble codes during and at the end of the drive cycle.

Power assist apparatus for use with a hospital bed

Abstract: A power-assist apparatus for use with hospital beds has at least one drive wheel interconnected to a frame of the hospital bed so as to be movable between a first position in which the drive wheel is positioned in spaced relationship to an underlying surface and a second position in which the drive wheel resiliently contacts the underlying surface. A controller is cooperative with the drive wheel so as to move the drive wheel between the first and second positions. A motor is drivably connected to the drive wheel. A handle is connected to the frame of the bed so as to extend upwardly and outwardly therefrom. The handle has control mechanisms for controlling the drive wheel and the motor.

Bicycle propulsion mechanism

Abstract: This invention discloses a mechanism for propelling a bicycle through rectilinear reciprocation of the pedals The mechanism includes a crank lever, which when forced by the drivers legs, pushes a drive arm that, in turn, rotates a drive wheel The rotation of the drive wheel transmits a torque to the bicycles rear wheel via a gearing mechanism A guide lever meanwhile maintains the proper position of the crank lever throughout its reciprocating cycle

Dynamic allocation of energy storage limits for a hybird vehicle propulsion system

Abstract: A system and method is disclosed for operating a hybrid propulsion system for a vehicle including at least an engine having a plurality of combustion cylinders, wherein the engine is mechanically coupled to at least a drive wheel of the vehicle, an energy conversion device mechanically coupled to at least one of the engine and the vehicle drive wheel, and an energy storage device coupled to the energy conversion device, the method comprising adjusting at least one of the engine and the energy conversion device so that an amount of energy stored by the energy storage device varies within a first range when the engine is operating in a first combustion mode and varies within a second range when the engine is operating in a second combustion mode, wherein the first range is different from the second range.

Vehicle drive control apparatus and method

Abstract: A vehicle drive control for a wheeled vehicle including a first motor generator, and a second motor generator. A planetary gear set includes a first rotating element connected to the first motor generator, a second rotating element connected to the second motor generator, and a third rotating element connected to a drive wheel. A rotation control mechanism selectively restricts rotation of one of the first and second rotating elements of the planetary gear set to establish a fixed speed ratio mode, and releases the one of the first and second rotating elements to establish a variable speed ratio mode. A control unit is configured to control each operating state of the rotation control mechanism, the first motor generator, and the second motor generator, and configured to establish the variable speed ratio mode when a slip state of the drive wheel is detected in the fixed speed ratio mode.

Drive Wheel of an Auxiliary Unit Pulley of an Internal Combustion Engine

Abstract: The invention relates to a drive wheel of an auxiliary unit pulley of an internal combustion engine, having a barrel jacket which is operatively connected to a traction mechanism, having a hub which is rotationally fixedly connected to the drive input axle of an auxiliary unit, and having a damping device, which is arranged so as to act between the barrel jacket and the hub, for reducing torsional vibrations. In order to obtain improved damping of torsional vibrations together with increased operational reliability, it is provided that the damping device (4) comprises a serial arrangement of a spring store (5) and a slip clutch (6), wherein the spring store (5) is arranged so as to act between the barrel jacket (2) and a driver disk (8) which is rotatably mounted on the hub (3), and the slip clutch (6) is arranged so as to act between the driver disk (8) and the hub (3).

Personal utility vehicle (PUV)

Abstract: A powered personal utility vehicle having a quick-change body configuration with a mating tray assembly and a universal chassis is disclosed. The upper level of the mating tray houses electronics while the lower level engages with the universal chassis to form the personal utility vehicle. Reconfigurations are simplified with plug and play design electronics. Vehicle traction is increased through a specialized track and drive wheel design that improves contact between the between the surfaces allowing operation in multiple environments. The two-piece wheel design allows assembly of the inflatable drive molded balloon tire. Adjustment of inflation levels of the balloon tires controls track tension. Control is either manually programmed into the on board central processing unit, or via carrier signals. Semi and fully autonomous operation is disclosed. Advanced operator interaction functions using two-way real time video and audio are disclosed along with LED and GPS systems. The invention as disclosed is configurable for a range of uses, load capacities and sizes.

Power-assisted transport device

Abstract: The apparatus includes an external housing (317) with an opening, an interior storage compartment, a drive wheel (313) operatively connected to a drive belt (315) , configured to propel the device across a surface, and at least one input switch, operatively connected to the power controller, configured to engage movement of the device upon activation of the at least one switch. The interior storage compartment may include a battery, a power controller operatively connected to the battery, circuitry, operatively connected to the power controller, configured to control input of power to a motor, and the motor, operatively connected to the circuitry, configured to turn the drive belt operatively connected to the motor and the drive wheel . The battery may be connected to an outlet, in the external housing, configured to permit insertion of a device to use the battery.

Hybrid vehicle control operation

Abstract: A drive system for a hybrid vehicle comprises a differential including a planetary gear set having a plurality of rotating elements and at least one engagement element. At least one rotating element is connected to each of, a first motor generator, an engine, a drive wheel and a second motor generator. The at least one engagement element selectively provides a variable speed ratio mode and a fixed speed ratio mode for the differential. The first motor generator generates electric power from output power of at least one of the engine and the second motor generator in the variable speed ratio mode. The drive system further includes a controller that selects the variable speed ratio mode to charge a battery of the hybrid vehicle when a state of charge of the battery is lower than a predetermined value.

Drive unit for hybrid vehicle

Abstract: A drive unit includes an engine, a generator, an electric motor and a power distributing device. The engine drives the generator to generate electric power. The electric motor is driven by the electric power generated by the generator and rotates a drive wheel. The power distributing device distributes the drive power generated by the engine between the generator and the drive wheel. A crankshaft of the engine can extend in a transverse direction of the vehicle. The generator, the motor and the power distributing device are disposed on a shaft, which is different from the crankshaft and extends substantially parallel to the crankshaft. The power of the engine and the drive force of the motor are output from a portion of the shaft through the power distributing device and the rotor of the motor.

Hybrid drive for a tracked vehicle

Abstract: A drive for a tracked vehicle with a drive shaft which drives two track drive wheels, and at least one differential gear arrangement which can superimpose a steering rotational speed of a steering drive on at least one track drive wheel is disclosed. The drive shaft has a drive connection to at least one electric machine which can be operated as a generator or electric motor and the output shafts of an internal combustion engine and of the at least one electric machine can be coupled to one another by means of a variable ratio gear unit.

Cuttings-less cutting mechanism for plastic tubes

Abstract: The utility model discloses a chipless cutting mechanism for a plastic pipe material, which comprises a machine base, a cutting device, a rotating barrel, a pushing disk, a propelling cylinder, a guiding device and a clamping device which is arranged on the machine base, wherein the cutting device is composed of a cutting seat and a knife saw which is arranged on the cutting seat The rotating barrel is movably arranged on the machine base, a drive wheel is arranged on the rotating barrel and the pushing disk is sheathed outside the rotating barrel The propelling cylinder is in contact with the pushing disk, and the guiding device is arranged on the pushing disk The cutting device is arranged on the guiding device The utility model has the advantages that application range is broad; cutting effect is good; a special saw dust collecting and sweeping device is not needed; equipment cost is reduced; meanwhile, the pollution for working environment is reduced; cutting efficiency is high, and is suitable for the high-speed production of the pipe material The pipe material is cut by using a thin knife blade and a rotary cutting mode; knife feeding quantity is little; at the time of work, noise is low; the mechanism is compact; operation is convenient, etc

Wheelchair propulsion and exercise attachment

Abstract: The “Pedalong” is a propulsion and exercise device attaching to a conventional wheelchair having: a drive support system attaching to the wheelchair frame and supporting a drive main frame; a propulsion system including an input unit operated by the user proximate the front end; and further including at least one drive wheel operably interposed between the rear set of wheelchair wheels. a power transmission assembly interposed between the input unit and the drive wheel to transmit power from said input unit to the drive wheel when engaged by the user to propel the device. The propulsion system can be: belt driven; chain driven; shaft driven; fluid power driven; or electrically driven. The input unit is mounted at a forward end of the main frame, so as to be adjustable in length.

Jointed mechanism of electric wheelchair

Abstract: A jointed mechanism of an electric wheelchair is disclosed. The jointed mechanism includes symmetrically arranged front caster assemblies, symmetrically arranged rear caster assemblies, drive wheel assemblies, and a main chassis assembly. The front caster assemblies are bushed to the main chassis assembly and the rear caster assemblies respectively. The rear caster assemblies are fixed to the drive wheel assemblies by pivot arm plate assemblies and bushed to the main chassis assembly and the rear caster assemblies to construct a four-bar linkage, which allows the electric wheelchair to always have contact with the ground with all wheels and to adjust the center of gravity to maintain balance automatically, even when the electric wheelchair is climbing a slope or moving on an uneven surface.

Workpiece delivery unit of multi-stationed continuous progressive die

Abstract: The utility model relates to a workpiece delivery unit of a multi-stationed continuous progressive die, which is characterized in that the utility model comprises an intermittent synchronous driving mechanism, a flexible synchronous conveyer belt and a vacuum chamber, wherein the synchronous driving mechanism is composed of a drive wheel, a driven wheel and a graduation intermittent mechanism; the drive wheel is connected with a main shaft of a punching machine in a driving form through the graduation intermittent mechanism; the flexible synchronous conveyer belt forms a ring shape; the left and the right heads of the flexible synchronous conveyer belt are respectively formed into an upper and a lower planes through the supporting of the drive and the driven wheels; the upper plane of the conveyer belt is horizontally penetrated between an upper and a lower dies of the punching machine and is used as a workpiece transportation plane; a work table of the punching machine is provided with an open box body; the four walls of the box body are provided with vacuum orifices; the workpiece transportation plane is covered on an opening of the box body; the vacuum chamber is composed of the workpiece transportation plane and the box body; a support plate which is relieved below the workpiece transportation plane is erected in the vacuum chamber; the circumference of the support plate is provided with upper and lower driving mechanisms; the flexible synchronous transportation belt is provided with workpiece positioning holes; the support plate is also provided with circular holes. The utility model can realize high speed, stable, safe and reliable production of an easy-to-open top from the angle of workpiece conveying.

Ergonomic wheelchair propulsion system

Abstract: The present application pertains to a wheelchair having a frame; a seat attached to the frame and supporting a user; two lateral drive wheels mounted on essentially horizontal axes; and a propulsion system including a handle, an operating lever supporting said handle and having a friction element mounted onto the operating lever. The operating lever is movable axially with respect to one axis between a first and second position and radially. The friction element is arranged and constructed to frictionally engage said drive wheel in the first position and radial movement of the propulsion system propels the chair in a predetermined direction.

System and method for enhancing conveying performance of conveyors

Abstract: A system and method for conveying and for accurately handling a generally flat object employing a plurality of support elements. The system comprises: a plurality of vacuum preload drive wheels arranged in one or more drive units, each drive unit comprising at least one vacuum preload drive wheel; one or more vacuum ports located on one or more counter plates adjacent each of the vacuum preload drive wheels, for applying induced holding down forces on the object. The vacuum ports of each drive unit are fluidically connected to a main vacuum pipe with controllable valve to a vacuum source. When the main vacuum pipe is connected to a vacuum source the normal force between the object and the vacuum preload drive wheels is increased and accordingly the lateral drive force is increased.

Drive system for the individual drive of both driven wheels of a driven wheel pair

Abstract: The invention relates to a drive system for the individual drive of both driven wheels of a driven wheel pair or similar for a motor vehicle, comprising two infinitely variable drive motors (2, 6), in drive connection with a corresponding drive wheel (4, 8) or similar by means of a gearbox arrangement The gearbox arrangement comprises two gearbox units, one of the gearbox units is a selectable gearbox (10, 40) design and the other gearbox is a bevel-gear gearbox (54, 64; 70, 72) with a fixed ratio and the bevel-gear gearbox (54, 64; 70, 72) comprises a spur gearset and a bevel gearset