A liquid-cooled electric motor assembly is disclosed having a coolant circuit used to cool both an electric motor and a motor controller of the electric motor assembly. The compact coolant circuit minimizes the need for external lines between the electric motor and controller, while providing separate heat sinks for the electric motor and motor controller assembly. The liquid-cooled electric motor may engage and power a variety of reduction output assemblies to form drive assemblies. The coolant circuit of the electric motor assembly may cooperate with an external coolant circuit to form a cooling system. The external circuit may include a radiator (e.g., heat exchanger or oil cooler) and an electric pump for the coolant which may cool one or more drive assemblies of a vehicle drive system.
A lawn mower having a control system, and a pair of driven wheels and a pair of electric motors for zero turn capabilities, is disclosed. The lawn mower has a steering wheel having a neutral wheel position. The control system includes one or more first sensors configured to collect orientation data of the lawn mower, a position sensor configured to detect a position of the steering wheel, memory for storing a target heading of the lawn mower, and a processor. The processor is configured to determine the target heading based on the position of the steering wheel, determine a current heading of the lawn mower based on the orientation data collected by the one or more first sensors, and transmit a course correction signal for at least one of the pair of electric motors based on a comparison between the current heading and the target heading.
B60W 30/04 - Control of vehicle driving stability related to roll-over prevention
B60L 15/20 - Methods, circuits or devices for controlling the propulsion of electrically-propelled vehicles, e.g. their traction-motor speed, to achieve a desired performanceAdaptation of control equipment on electrically-propelled vehicles for remote actuation from a stationary place, from alternative parts of the vehicle or from alternative vehicles of the same vehicle train for control of the vehicle or its driving motor to achieve a desired performance, e.g. speed, torque, programmed variation of speed
B62D 11/00 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like
B62D 11/12 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like by differentially driving ground-engaging elements on opposite vehicle sides by means of a single main power source using gearings with differential power outputs on opposite sides, e.g. twin- differential or epicyclic gears using separate change-speed gearings
G01C 21/18 - Stabilised platforms, e.g. by gyroscope
G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude or attitude of land, water, air or space vehicles, e.g. using automatic pilots
An electric brake for an electric drive includes a brake coil housing joined to an electric motor end cap to form a brake compartment containing a first and second stator with a rotor assembly disposed between the two stators. The rotor assembly comprises isolators for vibration damping and alignment of brake pucks constrained by and rotating along with a rotor engaged to an output shaft of the electric motor. An adjustable plug, a spacer and a spring are disposed in the brake coil housing. The spring is compressed by the adjustable plug to apply a biasing force against the second stator to press the stator against the brake pucks of the rotor assembly, and an electric brake coil is positioned adjacent to the second stator to electromagnetically pull the second stator away from the pair of brake pucks when energized.
H02K 7/102 - Structural association with clutches, brakes, gears, pulleys or mechanical starters with friction brakes
F16D 55/226 - Brakes with substantially-radial braking surfaces pressed together in axial direction, e.g. disc brakes with axially-movable discs or pads pressed against axially-located rotating members by clamping an axially-located rotating disc between movable braking members, e.g. movable brake discs or brake pads with a common actuating member for the braking members the braking members being brake pads in which the common actuating member is moved axially
B60K 7/00 - Disposition of motor in, or adjacent to, traction wheel
B60T 1/06 - Arrangements of braking elements, i.e. of those parts where braking effect occurs acting by retarding wheels acting otherwise than on tread, e.g. employing rim, drum, disc, or transmission
B60T 13/74 - Transmitting braking action from initiating means to ultimate brake actuator with power assistance or driveBrake systems incorporating such transmitting means, e.g. air-pressure brake systems with electrical assistance or drive
A parallel hybrid drive system for use with utility vehicles includes a battery-powered drive system and an internal combustion engine. The utility vehicle includes a mounting deck having one or more electric deck motors mounted thereon. Each deck motor receives electrical power from and is controlled by a dedicated deck motor controller. Each deck motor controller is in communication with a vehicle controller or a CAN bus connected to a vehicle integration module. Each deck motor includes a pulley and either a one-way mechanical or electric clutch so the deck motor(s) can be selectively belt-driven by the internal combustion engine. The power and control system of the parallel hybrid drive system is configured to return power to the battery source when the motor(s) are engaged by the internal combustion engine.
A parallel hybrid drive system for use with utility vehicles includes a battery-powered drive system and an internal combustion engine. The utility vehicle includes a mounting deck having one or more electric deck motors mounted thereon. Each deck motor receives electrical power from and is controlled by a dedicated deck motor controller. Each deck motor controller is in communication with a vehicle controller or a CAN bus connected to a vehicle integration module. Each deck motor includes a pulley and either a one-way mechanical or electric clutch so the deck motor(s) can be selectively belt-driven by the internal combustion engine. The power and control system of the parallel hybrid drive system is configured to return power to the battery source when the motor(s) are engaged by the internal combustion engine.
A01D 34/68 - MowersMowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having rotating cutters having cutters rotating about a vertical axis hand-guided by a walking operator with motor driven cutters or wheels
A system for providing feedback to a vehicle operator includes a lawn vehicle including a movement mechanism and at least one rotatable blade, a circuit capable of residing on the lawn vehicle, a sensor associated with the lawn vehicle and capable of sensing at least one characteristic of the lawn vehicle, a data packet representative of the at least one characteristic of the lawn vehicle, a transmitter connected to the circuit and to a computing device, the transmitter capable of transmitting the data packet to the computing device, the computing device connected to one of a speaker or visual display, the speaker or visual display capable of outputting audible or visual feedback representing the at least one characteristic of the lawn vehicle.
A lawn vehicle network includes a charging station having a visual identifier, a lawn vehicle having a battery, a blade system, a drive system whose output effects lawn vehicle forward movement, a processor board connected to both systems, the processor board capable of processing image data and sending commands to both systems, and a vision assembly connected to the processor board and able to transmit image data to the processor board, and the processor board, having received the image data, able to, if the image data represent a first object, maintain the drive system's output at the time of that determination, if the image data represent a second object, change the drive system's output at the time of that determination, and if the image data represent the visual identifier, maintain the drive system's output or send a shutoff command to the vision assembly at the time of that determination.
G05D 1/249 - Arrangements for determining position or orientation using signals provided by artificial sources external to the vehicle, e.g. navigation beacons from positioning sensors located off-board the vehicle, e.g. from cameras
A control assembly for a lawn mower includes a shaft configured to rotate about a first axis and a pivot bar coupled to and configured to rotate with and pivot relative to the shaft. The pivot bar is configured to rotate with the shaft between a forward position, a neutral position, and a rear position about the first axis and pivot relative to the shaft between an operative position and a stopped position about a second axis. The control assembly includes a magnet coupled to an end of the shaft, a position sensor positioned to interact with a magnetic field of the magnet to detect rotation of the pivot bar about the first axis, and a return-to-neutral assembly configured to bias the pivot bar toward the neutral position about the first axis.
B62D 11/00 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like
A01D 34/64 - MowersMowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having rotating cutters having cutters rotating about a vertical axis mounted on a vehicle, e.g. a tractor, or drawn by an animal or a vehicle
A01D 69/02 - Driving mechanisms or parts thereof for harvesters or mowers electric
B60K 1/04 - Arrangement or mounting of electrical propulsion units of the electric storage means for propulsion
B60K 7/00 - Disposition of motor in, or adjacent to, traction wheel
B60K 17/04 - Arrangement or mounting of transmissions in vehicles characterised by arrangement, location or kind of gearing
B60K 17/12 - Arrangement or mounting of transmissions in vehicles characterised by arrangement, location or kind of gearing of electric gearing
B60K 17/30 - Arrangement or mounting of transmissions in vehicles the ultimate propulsive elements, e.g. ground wheels, being steerable
B62D 11/04 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like by differentially driving ground-engaging elements on opposite vehicle sides by means of separate power sources
F16H 21/44 - Gearings comprising primarily only links or levers, with or without slides all movement being in, or parallel to, a single plane for conveying or interconverting oscillating or reciprocating motions
F16H 61/427 - Motor capacity control by mechanical control means, e.g. by levers or pedals
F16H 61/439 - Control of the neutral position, e.g. by zero tilt rotation holding means
G05G 5/03 - Means for enhancing the operator's awareness of the arrival of the controlling member at a command or datum positionProviding feel, e.g. means for creating a counterforce
An electric transaxle includes a main housing defining threaded holes. The transaxle includes a first axle horn connected to the main housing. The transaxle includes an electric motor assembly that includes an electrical connector and the electric motor assembly is attached to the main housing next to the first axle horn to form a compact arrangement. The electric motor assembly defines through-holes. The electric motor assembly includes fasteners, each of which extends through a respective one of the through-holes and engages a respective one of the threaded holes, to attach the electric motor assembly to the main housing. The through-holes and the threaded holes are arranged in a first regular polygon shape to enable attachment of the electric motor assembly to the main housing in multiple orientations to orient the electrical connector away from the first axle horn in various installed orientations of the transaxle.
An electric transaxle includes a main housing defining threaded holes. The transaxle includes a first axle horn connected to the main housing. The transaxle includes an electric motor assembly that includes an electrical connector and the electric motor assembly is attached to the main housing next to the first axle horn to form a compact arrangement. The electric motor assembly defines through-holes. The electric motor assembly includes fasteners, each of which extends through a respective one of the through-holes and engages a respective one of the threaded holes, to attach the electric motor assembly to the main housing. The through-holes and the threaded holes are arranged in a first regular polygon shape to enable attachment of the electric motor assembly to the main housing in multiple orientations to orient the electrical connector away from the first axle horn in various installed orientations of the transaxle.
A utility vehicle such as a lawn mower includes a deck having one or more electric deck motor assemblies mounted thereon. Each deck motor assembly includes an electric motor compartment formed by combining a motor end cap, a stator housing and a motor output cap. The motor end cap forms a flat motor mounting surface that seats around the perimeter of an opening in the deck such that the stator housing and motor output cap extend through the opening. The motor compartment contains an electric motor that drives a motor shaft connected to a mowing blade suspended below the deck. Rotation of the mowing blade air-cools the components of the motor compartment that extend through the opening in the deck. The deck motor assembly may include a debris shield for protection of a motor output shaft lower bearing seal during operation and cleaning of the mowing deck.
H02K 5/15 - Mounting arrangements for bearing-shields or end plates
A01D 34/66 - MowersMowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having rotating cutters having cutters rotating about a vertical axis mounted on a vehicle, e.g. a tractor, or drawn by an animal or a vehicle with two or more cutters
A01D 34/78 - Driving mechanisms for the cutters electric
A01D 69/02 - Driving mechanisms or parts thereof for harvesters or mowers electric
H02K 5/10 - Casings or enclosures characterised by the shape, form or construction thereof with arrangements for protection from ingress, e.g. of water or fingers
H02K 5/22 - Auxiliary parts of casings not covered by groups , e.g. shaped to form connection boxes or terminal boxes
A utility vehicle such as a lawn mower includes a deck having one or more electric deck motor assemblies mounted thereon. Each deck motor assembly includes an electric motor compartment formed by combining a motor end cap, a stator housing and a motor output cap. The motor end cap forms a flat motor mounting surface that seats around the perimeter of an opening in the deck such that the stator housing and motor output cap extend through the opening. The motor compartment contains an electric motor that drives a motor shaft connected to a mowing blade suspended below the deck. Rotation of the mowing blade air-cools the components of the motor compartment that extend through the opening in the deck. The deck motor assembly may include a debris shield for protection of a motor output shaft lower bearing seal during operation and cleaning of the mowing deck.
A01D 34/78 - Driving mechanisms for the cutters electric
A01D 75/18 - Safety devices for parts of the machines
H02K 5/10 - Casings or enclosures characterised by the shape, form or construction thereof with arrangements for protection from ingress, e.g. of water or fingers
H02K 5/20 - Casings or enclosures characterised by the shape, form or construction thereof with channels or ducts for flow of cooling medium
A01D 34/64 - MowersMowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having rotating cutters having cutters rotating about a vertical axis mounted on a vehicle, e.g. a tractor, or drawn by an animal or a vehicle
A01D 34/66 - MowersMowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having rotating cutters having cutters rotating about a vertical axis mounted on a vehicle, e.g. a tractor, or drawn by an animal or a vehicle with two or more cutters
A versatile and compact design for an electric motor assembly is disclosed. The electric motor assembly may include a fan mounted on an end of an output through-shaft of an electric motor to cool both the electric motor and a motor controller. The motor controller may be bracket-mounted on the electric motor housing or integrated into the electric motor assembly and is electrically connected to the electric motor to deliver power and exchange CAN bus communication. A fan shroud may be mounted on a compartment cover that seals a first end of the electric motor assembly. This shroud-mounting compartment cover is interchangeable with a brake compartment cover of an electric brake assembly. When the fan and shroud are removed, an electric brake can be installed in the brake compartment.
H02K 11/30 - Structural association with control circuits or drive circuits
H02K 9/06 - Arrangements for cooling or ventilating by ambient air flowing through the machine having means for generating a flow of cooling medium with fans or impellers driven by the machine shaft
H02K 9/22 - Arrangements for cooling or ventilating by solid heat conducting material embedded in, or arranged in contact with, the stator or rotor, e.g. heat bridges
H02K 11/00 - Structural association of dynamo-electric machines with electric components or with devices for shielding, monitoring or protection
A versatile and compact design for an electric motor assembly is disclosed. The electric motor assembly may include a fan mounted on an end of an output through-shaft of an electric motor to cool both the electric motor and a motor controller. The motor controller may be bracket- mounted on the electric motor housing or integrated into the electric motor assembly and is electrically connected to the electric motor to deliver power and exchange CAN bus communication. A fan shroud may be mounted on a compartment cover that seals a first end of the electric motor assembly. This shroud-mounting compartment cover is interchangeable with a brake compartment cover of an electric brake assembly. When the fan and shroud are removed, an electric brake can be installed in the brake compartment.
H02K 5/18 - Casings or enclosures characterised by the shape, form or construction thereof with ribs or fins for improving heat transfer
H02K 5/22 - Auxiliary parts of casings not covered by groups , e.g. shaped to form connection boxes or terminal boxes
H02K 9/06 - Arrangements for cooling or ventilating by ambient air flowing through the machine having means for generating a flow of cooling medium with fans or impellers driven by the machine shaft
H02K 11/30 - Structural association with control circuits or drive circuits
17.
Battery mounting system for electric zero-turn mower
A battery assembly is disposed on a mowing vehicle having at least two electric drive assemblies. The battery assembly includes a plurality of battery packs joined together, where two of the battery packs are structurally connected to the vehicle frame and at least one other battery pack is structurally connected only to the first two battery packs to form a structural support for the vehicle. A fourth battery pack may be connected to and disposed below one of the other battery packs, and may be located between the two electric drive assemblies. A portion of the battery assembly may be located between an operator seat and a portion of the drive assemblies.
A01D 69/02 - Driving mechanisms or parts thereof for harvesters or mowers electric
A01D 34/412 - MowersMowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having rotating cutters
B60K 1/02 - Arrangement or mounting of electrical propulsion units comprising more than one electric motor
B60K 1/04 - Arrangement or mounting of electrical propulsion units of the electric storage means for propulsion
B60K 26/02 - Arrangement or mounting of propulsion-unit control devices in vehicles of initiating means or elements
H01M 50/204 - Racks, modules or packs for multiple batteries or multiple cells
H01M 50/244 - Secondary casingsRacksSuspension devicesCarrying devicesHolders characterised by their mounting method
H01M 50/249 - MountingsSecondary casings or framesRacks, modules or packsSuspension devicesShock absorbersTransport or carrying devicesHolders specially adapted for aircraft or vehicles, e.g. cars or trains
H01M 50/296 - MountingsSecondary casings or framesRacks, modules or packsSuspension devicesShock absorbersTransport or carrying devicesHolders characterised by terminals of battery packs
H01M 4/02 - Electrodes composed of, or comprising, active material
H01M 4/58 - Selection of substances as active materials, active masses, active liquids of inorganic compounds other than oxides or hydroxides, e.g. sulfides, selenides, tellurides, halogenides or LiCoFySelection of substances as active materials, active masses, active liquids of polyanionic structures, e.g. phosphates, silicates or borates
H01M 10/0525 - Rocking-chair batteries, i.e. batteries with lithium insertion or intercalation in both electrodesLithium-ion batteries
A utility vehicle with regenerative braking is disclosed. The utility vehicle includes a system power bus, a battery coupled to the system power bus, at least one electric drive motor configured to generate power through the regenerative braking and supply the power onto the system power bus, and a first controller configured to decrease a maximum travel speed to reduce an amount of the power generated through the regenerative braking when the battery is fully charged and the power is greater than a power consumption limit.
B60W 20/14 - Controlling the power contribution of each of the prime movers to meet required power demand in order to stay within battery power input or output limitsControlling the power contribution of each of the prime movers to meet required power demand in order to prevent overcharging or battery depletion in conjunction with braking regeneration
B60K 6/20 - Arrangement or mounting of plural diverse prime-movers for mutual or common propulsion, e.g. hybrid propulsion systems comprising electric motors and internal combustion engines the prime-movers consisting of electric motors and internal combustion engines, e.g. HEVs
B60W 10/08 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of propulsion units including control of electric propulsion units, e.g. motors or generators
B60W 10/30 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of auxiliary equipment, e.g. air-conditioning compressors or oil pumps
19.
Vibration damping apparatus for mounting an electric actuator on a hydraulic drive
A vibration damping apparatus for mounting an electric actuator on a hydraulic drive is disclosed herein. A mounting assembly comprises a mounting adapter and a vibration damping clamp. A base plate is coupled to and positioned between a housing of the electric actuator and the drive to mount the actuator housing to the drive. A support arm extends from the base plate and the damping clamp is coupled to a distal end of the support arm. The damping clamp extends circumferentially about a housing of an electric motor of the actuator to secure the electric motor to the drive. A fastener may couple a drive adapter to a trunnion, and a magnet is mounted to the fastener and positioned adjacent to a magnetic field sensor positioned within an electric actuator housing. A spring biases the magnet into a positional range adjacent to the field sensor.
Autonomous vehicle navigation is disclosed. A tangible computer readable medium includes instructions which, when executed cause a machine to divide an image of an area being approached by a lawn mower into a grid of separate image sections. Each of the image sections corresponds to a respective portion of the area being approached. For each of the image sections in the grid, the instructions, when executed, cause the machine to calculate, using an image recognition algorithm, a percentage of the image section categorized as corresponding with unmowable material and assign a result value based on a comparison between the calculated percentage and one or more movement thresholds. The instructions, when executed, also cause the machine to instruct a drive system to control movement of the lawn mower based on an arrangement of result values in the grid of the image sections.
A01D 34/64 - MowersMowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having rotating cutters having cutters rotating about a vertical axis mounted on a vehicle, e.g. a tractor, or drawn by an animal or a vehicle
A vehicle control system includes a communication network, a vehicle integration module, and a pair of control assemblies. Each of the pair of control assemblies is configured to be operated by a respective control lever and communicatively connected to the vehicle integration module. Each of the pair of control assemblies comprises an operator control assembly that includes a neutral switch, a return-to-neutral assembly configured to provide a return force to the respective control lever, a return-to-neutral shaft supporting a portion of the return-to-neutral assembly, a magnet attached to the return-to-neutral shaft, a position sensor assembly, and a linkage connecting the operator control assembly to the return-to-neutral assembly. The position sensor assembly includes a circuit board, a magnetic field sensor configured to sense a rotational orientation of the magnet, and a plurality of terminals for communication with the circuit board.
B62D 11/04 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like by differentially driving ground-engaging elements on opposite vehicle sides by means of separate power sources
A01D 69/02 - Driving mechanisms or parts thereof for harvesters or mowers electric
B60K 26/02 - Arrangement or mounting of propulsion-unit control devices in vehicles of initiating means or elements
B60K 26/04 - Arrangement or mounting of propulsion-unit control devices in vehicles of means connecting initiating means or elements to propulsion unit
B60R 16/023 - Electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided forArrangement of elements of electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided for electric for transmission of signals between vehicle parts or subsystems
Vehicle drive and control systems are disclosed. A utility vehicle includes a first electric drive motor configured to drive a first traction wheel, a second electric drive motor configured to drive the a traction wheel, a steering wheel configured to receive a first user input, one or more pedals configured to receive a second user input, a steering input sensor, and a drive input sensor. The steering input sensor is configured transmit a steering input signal that corresponds with a steering input position. The drive input sensor is configured to transmit a drive input signal that corresponds with a drive input position. A plurality of controllers are configured to collectively generate, based on the steering input signal and the drive input signal, a first drive signal to drive the first electric drive motor and a second drive signal to drive the second electric drive motor.
B60R 16/023 - Electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided forArrangement of elements of electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided for electric for transmission of signals between vehicle parts or subsystems
B60W 10/06 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of propulsion units including control of combustion engines
B60W 10/08 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of propulsion units including control of electric propulsion units, e.g. motors or generators
B60W 20/50 - Control strategies for responding to system failures, e.g. for fault diagnosis, failsafe operation or limp mode
B60W 30/08 - Predicting or avoiding probable or impending collision
B60W 50/14 - Means for informing the driver, warning the driver or prompting a driver intervention
B62D 11/04 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like by differentially driving ground-engaging elements on opposite vehicle sides by means of separate power sources
A01D 34/66 - MowersMowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having rotating cutters having cutters rotating about a vertical axis mounted on a vehicle, e.g. a tractor, or drawn by an animal or a vehicle with two or more cutters
B60K 28/14 - Safety devices for propulsion-unit control, specially adapted for, or arranged in, vehicles, e.g. preventing fuel supply or ignition in the event of potentially dangerous conditions responsive to conditions relating to the vehicle responsive to accident or emergency, e.g. deceleration, tilt of vehicle
B60L 1/00 - Supplying electric power to auxiliary equipment of electrically-propelled vehicles
B60L 15/20 - Methods, circuits or devices for controlling the propulsion of electrically-propelled vehicles, e.g. their traction-motor speed, to achieve a desired performanceAdaptation of control equipment on electrically-propelled vehicles for remote actuation from a stationary place, from alternative parts of the vehicle or from alternative vehicles of the same vehicle train for control of the vehicle or its driving motor to achieve a desired performance, e.g. speed, torque, programmed variation of speed
B60L 50/60 - Electric propulsion with power supplied within the vehicle using propulsion power supplied by batteries or fuel cells using power supplied by batteries
B60N 2/00 - Seats specially adapted for vehiclesArrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles
B60Q 9/00 - Arrangement or adaptation of signal devices not provided for in one of main groups
B60R 21/0132 - Electrical circuits for triggering safety arrangements in case of vehicle accidents or impending vehicle accidents including means for detecting collisions, impending collisions or roll-over responsive to vehicle motion parameters
B60R 21/0136 - Electrical circuits for triggering safety arrangements in case of vehicle accidents or impending vehicle accidents including means for detecting collisions, impending collisions or roll-over responsive to actual contact with an obstacle
B60T 17/22 - Devices for monitoring or checking brake systemsSignal devices
H04W 4/80 - Services using short range communication, e.g. near-field communication [NFC], radio-frequency identification [RFID] or low energy communication
23.
Electric transaxle with integral power generating device
A vehicle drive and control system for a vehicle having a prime mover and an operator control device such as a steering wheel is disclosed. A transaxle includes a power generating device in a transaxle housing and driven by the prime mover, an electric motor in the transaxle housing and powered by the power generating device, and at least one axle extending out of the transaxle housing and engaged to and driving one of a pair of driven wheels. A battery is powered by the power generating device, and connected to a controller. The controller is operatively connected to the operator control device and to the electric motor such that the controller controls electric motor output based on input received via the operator control device.
B62D 11/04 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like by differentially driving ground-engaging elements on opposite vehicle sides by means of separate power sources
A01D 34/78 - Driving mechanisms for the cutters electric
A01D 69/02 - Driving mechanisms or parts thereof for harvesters or mowers electric
B60L 15/20 - Methods, circuits or devices for controlling the propulsion of electrically-propelled vehicles, e.g. their traction-motor speed, to achieve a desired performanceAdaptation of control equipment on electrically-propelled vehicles for remote actuation from a stationary place, from alternative parts of the vehicle or from alternative vehicles of the same vehicle train for control of the vehicle or its driving motor to achieve a desired performance, e.g. speed, torque, programmed variation of speed
B62D 11/00 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like
B62D 11/10 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like by differentially driving ground-engaging elements on opposite vehicle sides by means of a single main power source using gearings with differential power outputs on opposite sides, e.g. twin- differential or epicyclic gears
A power control system is disclosed for a utility vehicle having position sensors configured to collect vehicle position data. The system includes a propulsion system having electric drive motors powered by a battery, and the drive motors are configured to recharge the battery via regenerative braking. The battery has a maximum charge capacity and a regenerative capacity, wherein the regenerative capacity is a portion of the maximum charge capacity reserved for regenerative braking. Memory is configured to store terrain data indicative of terrain types for a plurality of locations. A processor is configured to determine a location of the utility vehicle based on the position data, identify a current terrain type based on vehicle location and stored terrain data, and generate a command signal to adjust the regenerative capacity of the battery based on the current terrain type.
B60L 15/20 - Methods, circuits or devices for controlling the propulsion of electrically-propelled vehicles, e.g. their traction-motor speed, to achieve a desired performanceAdaptation of control equipment on electrically-propelled vehicles for remote actuation from a stationary place, from alternative parts of the vehicle or from alternative vehicles of the same vehicle train for control of the vehicle or its driving motor to achieve a desired performance, e.g. speed, torque, programmed variation of speed
G05B 13/02 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric
G07C 5/02 - Registering or indicating driving, working, idle, or waiting time only
G07C 5/08 - Registering or indicating performance data other than driving, working, idle, or waiting time, with or without registering driving, working, idle, or waiting time
25.
Lawn tractor with electronic drive and control system
A drive and control system for a utility vehicle includes a CAN-Bus network and a vehicle control module operable to communicate signals to and from one or more components via the CAN-Bus network. The system includes first and second electric actuators with first and second electronic drive modules, respectively. The system includes a steering and drive input device and a steering and drive sensor module operable to post on the CAN-Bus network a steering and drive input command. The vehicle control module processes the steering and drive input command and post on the CAN-Bus network a steering and drive output command. The first and second electronic drive modules process and convert the steering and drive output command to appropriate first and second actuator commands to drive the first and second electric actuators to obtain the desired speed and direction of motion of the utility vehicle.
A01D 69/02 - Driving mechanisms or parts thereof for harvesters or mowers electric
B60K 7/00 - Disposition of motor in, or adjacent to, traction wheel
B60K 17/00 - Arrangement or mounting of transmissions in vehicles
B60K 17/14 - Arrangement or mounting of transmissions in vehicles characterised by arrangement, location or kind of gearing the motor of fluid or electric gearing being disposed in, or adjacent to, traction wheel
B60K 17/356 - Arrangement or mounting of transmissions in vehicles for driving both front and rear wheels, e.g. four wheel drive vehicles having fluid or electric motor, for driving one or more wheels
B60R 16/023 - Electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided forArrangement of elements of electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided for electric for transmission of signals between vehicle parts or subsystems
A01D 34/66 - MowersMowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having rotating cutters having cutters rotating about a vertical axis mounted on a vehicle, e.g. a tractor, or drawn by an animal or a vehicle with two or more cutters
A system for mapping a plot of land includes a utility vehicle and a remote computer. The utility vehicle includes a GPS unit configured to collect location data of the utility vehicle during operation on the plot of land. The utility vehicle includes an accelerometer configured to collect roll data and pitch data of the utility vehicle during operation on the plot of land. The utility vehicle includes a transceiver configured to wirelessly transmit the location data, the roll data, and the pitch data. The remote computer is configured to wirelessly receive the location data, the roll data, and the pitch data. The remote computer is configured to generate a three-dimensional contour map of the plot of land based on the location data, the roll data, and the pitch data.
A vehicle having a prime mover and a central gear box mounted to a frame. First and second transaxles are driven by the central gear box. Each transaxle includes an output axle having a completely splined external portion and a threaded end for engagement with a driven wheel, and the completely splined portion of each output axle is disposed in one of the driven wheels of the vehicle. A cross brace may be mounted to the two transaxle housings for rigidity.
B62D 11/12 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like by differentially driving ground-engaging elements on opposite vehicle sides by means of a single main power source using gearings with differential power outputs on opposite sides, e.g. twin- differential or epicyclic gears using separate change-speed gearings
B60K 17/344 - Arrangement or mounting of transmissions in vehicles for driving both front and rear wheels, e.g. four wheel drive vehicles having a transfer gear
A drive and control system is provided for use on a zero turn vehicle, and includes first and second hydraulic ground drives independently driving a set of driven wheels. Each ground drive has an electric actuator to control the output thereof. An operator mechanism generates a drive signal corresponding to a neutral drive position or to one of a plurality of non-neutral drive positions of the operator mechanism, and a steering signal corresponding to a neutral steering position or to one of a plurality of non-neutral steering positions of the operator mechanism. Sensors generate signals corresponding to sensed roll, pitch and yaw parameters. A stability control module includes a processor for receiving the drive and steering signals and for providing output signals to the electric actuators.
B60W 30/04 - Control of vehicle driving stability related to roll-over prevention
B60L 15/20 - Methods, circuits or devices for controlling the propulsion of electrically-propelled vehicles, e.g. their traction-motor speed, to achieve a desired performanceAdaptation of control equipment on electrically-propelled vehicles for remote actuation from a stationary place, from alternative parts of the vehicle or from alternative vehicles of the same vehicle train for control of the vehicle or its driving motor to achieve a desired performance, e.g. speed, torque, programmed variation of speed
B62D 11/00 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like
B62D 11/12 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like by differentially driving ground-engaging elements on opposite vehicle sides by means of a single main power source using gearings with differential power outputs on opposite sides, e.g. twin- differential or epicyclic gears using separate change-speed gearings
G01C 21/18 - Stabilised platforms, e.g. by gyroscope
G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude or attitude of land, water, air or space vehicles, e.g. using automatic pilots
29.
Vehicle having electric drive and operator platform
A zero turn vehicle is disclosed, having an operator platform located adjacent to the rear of the frame. An upright riser is disposed on the frame. The vehicle uses first and second electric drive transmissions to drive the output wheels. An electrical bus or controllers may be mounted on a panel of the upright riser or on the drive transmissions to assist in providing a compact design. A pair of drive levers is mounted on the upright riser for controlling the output of the vehicle.
B62D 11/04 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like by differentially driving ground-engaging elements on opposite vehicle sides by means of separate power sources
B60K 6/40 - Arrangement or mounting of plural diverse prime-movers for mutual or common propulsion, e.g. hybrid propulsion systems comprising electric motors and internal combustion engines the prime-movers consisting of electric motors and internal combustion engines, e.g. HEVs characterised by apparatus, components or means specially adapted for HEVs characterised by the assembly or relative disposition of components
B62D 11/00 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like
B62D 49/06 - Tractors adapted for multi-purpose use
A01D 34/64 - MowersMowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having rotating cutters having cutters rotating about a vertical axis mounted on a vehicle, e.g. a tractor, or drawn by an animal or a vehicle
A lawn vehicle network includes a charging station having a visual identifier, a lawn vehicle having a battery, a blade system, a drive system whose output effects lawn vehicle forward movement, a processor board connected to both systems, the processor board capable of processing image data and sending commands to both systems, and a vision assembly connected to the processor board and able to transmit image data to the processor board, and the processor board, having received the image data, able to, if the image data represent a first object, maintain the drive system's output at the time of that determination, if the image data represent a second object, change the drive system's output at the time of that determination, and if the image data represent the visual identifier, maintain the drive system's output or send a shutoff command to the vision assembly at the time of that determination.
An electric actuator for use with a variable drive apparatus is disclosed herein. The actuator has a rotary design incorporating a magnetic field sensor chip disposed on a circuit board to sense the rotational orientation of the magnetic field of a magnet positioned on the end of a control shaft of the drive apparatus. The actuator further includes an electric motor driving a gear train, and a fastener connecting a drive adapter to the control shaft, and the magnet is engaged to the fastener. A jack shaft may be used to connect the actuator housing to the drive apparatus, with a first end of the jack shaft configured to rotatably mount a gear of the gear train, and a second end including threads to connect the actuator housing to the drive apparatus housing.
G01D 5/12 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing memberMeans for converting the output of a sensing member to another variable where the form or nature of the sensing member does not constrain the means for convertingTransducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using electric or magnetic means
F04B 1/295 - Control of machines or pumps with stationary cylinders by varying the relative positions of a swash plate and a cylinder block by changing the inclination of the swash plate
B60W 10/103 - Infinitely variable gearings of fluid type
An electrical connector for a reduction drive assembly includes a connector body and a plurality of pins disposed within the connector body. The plurality of pins include one or more motor pins to conduct power to an electric motor, one or more brake pins to conduct power to an electric brake coil, and one or more sensor pins electrically connected to a sensor board for control of the electric motor.
H02K 11/20 - Structural association of dynamo-electric machines with electric components or with devices for shielding, monitoring or protection for measuring, monitoring, testing, protecting or switching
H02K 5/22 - Auxiliary parts of casings not covered by groups , e.g. shaped to form connection boxes or terminal boxes
H02K 7/102 - Structural association with clutches, brakes, gears, pulleys or mechanical starters with friction brakes
H02K 7/116 - Structural association with clutches, brakes, gears, pulleys or mechanical starters with gears
H02K 11/25 - Devices for sensing temperature, or actuated thereby
H02K 11/40 - Structural association with grounding devices
H02K 11/215 - Magnetic effect devices, e.g. Hall-effect or magneto-resistive elements
33.
Automatic sensitivity adjustment for an autonomous mower
Methods and apparatus are disclosed for automatic sensitivity adjustment for an autonomous mower. An exemplary mower includes a drive system and one or more cameras. One or more processors are configured to generate a grass value by applying an image recognition algorithm to one or more images, instruct the drive system to autonomously adjust a velocity of current movement in response to determining that the grass value is less than or equal to a mowing threshold, determine a trigger rate that indicates how often the grass value is less than or equal to the mowing threshold within a predefined period of time, decrease the mowing threshold by a decrement in response to determining that the trigger rate is greater than an upper threshold rate, and increase the mowing threshold by an increment in response to determining that the trigger rate is less than a lower threshold rate.
A control system is disclosed for use in a zero turn vehicle, including an electric controller in communication with a pair of independent drive units. A joystick is pivotable between a plurality of pivot positions, each pivot position corresponding to a particular rotational speed and direction of each driven wheel. A plurality of driving modes stored in the controller each map a different set of speeds and directions for each driven wheel onto the plurality of pivot positions. The joystick may also rotate about a vertical axis to provide zero turn capability. In at least one driving mode, when the rotational speed of one driven wheel is zero, the rotational speed of the other driven wheels is zero, and when the rotational speed of one driven wheel is non-zero, the rotational speed of the other driven wheel is non-zero.
B62D 11/00 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like
B62D 11/04 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like by differentially driving ground-engaging elements on opposite vehicle sides by means of separate power sources
35.
UTILITY VEHICLE WITH BATTERY MANAGEMENT AND AUTONOMOUS CONTROL SYSTEMS
Utility vehicles with battery management and autonomous control systems are disclosed. A utility vehicle includes driven wheels, electric motor(s), blade motor(s), at least one battery, battery management system(s), global navigation satellite system receiver(s), and controller(s) communicatively connected to memory. The controller(s) identify whether map data for a mow area is stored in the memory and perform a sparse-mow routine in response to identifying no map data in the memory. To perform the sparse-mow routine, the controller(s) autonomously steer the electric utility vehicle to travel over a sample of each portion of the mow area, collect location data, and collect current discharge data. The controller(s) generate an energy- consumption map for the mow area by correlating the current discharge data with the location data and determine an efficient-mow path for subsequent mowing events of the mow area based on the energy-consumption map.
Autonomous vehicle navigation is disclosed. An example lawn mower includes a vision sensor configured to capture an image of an area being approached. The lawn mower includes a processor in communication with the vision sensor and configured to divide the image into a grid of separate image sections. Each of the image sections corresponds to a respective portion of the area being approached. For each of the image sections in the grid the processor is further configured to calculate a percentage of the image section categorized as corresponding with unmowable material and assign a result value based on a comparison between the calculated percentage and one or more movement thresholds. The lawn mower includes a drive system in communication with the processor and configured to control movement of the lawn mower based on an arrangement of the result values in the grid of the image sections.
G06F 18/243 - Classification techniques relating to the number of classes
G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude or attitude of land, water, air or space vehicles, e.g. using automatic pilots
A01D 34/64 - MowersMowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having rotating cutters having cutters rotating about a vertical axis mounted on a vehicle, e.g. a tractor, or drawn by an animal or a vehicle
A drive and control system for a lawn tractor includes a CAN-Bus network, a plurality of controllers, a pair of electric transaxles controlled by the plurality of controllers, and one or more steering and drive input devices coupled to respective sensor(s) for sensing user steering and drive inputs. The plurality of controllers communicate with one or more vehicle sensors via the CAN-Bus network. The plurality of controllers receive the user's steering and drive inputs and posts on the CAN-Bus network and generate drive signals to obtain the desired speed and direction of motion of the lawn tractor.
B60R 16/023 - Electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided forArrangement of elements of electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided for electric for transmission of signals between vehicle parts or subsystems
A01D 69/02 - Driving mechanisms or parts thereof for harvesters or mowers electric
B62D 11/04 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like by differentially driving ground-engaging elements on opposite vehicle sides by means of separate power sources
A01D 69/03 - Driving mechanisms or parts thereof for harvesters or mowers fluid
B60K 1/02 - Arrangement or mounting of electrical propulsion units comprising more than one electric motor
B60W 10/06 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of propulsion units including control of combustion engines
B60W 10/08 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of propulsion units including control of electric propulsion units, e.g. motors or generators
B60W 20/50 - Control strategies for responding to system failures, e.g. for fault diagnosis, failsafe operation or limp mode
B60W 30/08 - Predicting or avoiding probable or impending collision
A01D 34/66 - MowersMowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having rotating cutters having cutters rotating about a vertical axis mounted on a vehicle, e.g. a tractor, or drawn by an animal or a vehicle with two or more cutters
B60N 2/00 - Seats specially adapted for vehiclesArrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles
B60T 17/22 - Devices for monitoring or checking brake systemsSignal devices
B60R 21/0136 - Electrical circuits for triggering safety arrangements in case of vehicle accidents or impending vehicle accidents including means for detecting collisions, impending collisions or roll-over responsive to actual contact with an obstacle
B60R 21/0132 - Electrical circuits for triggering safety arrangements in case of vehicle accidents or impending vehicle accidents including means for detecting collisions, impending collisions or roll-over responsive to vehicle motion parameters
B60Q 9/00 - Arrangement or adaptation of signal devices not provided for in one of main groups
B60K 28/14 - Safety devices for propulsion-unit control, specially adapted for, or arranged in, vehicles, e.g. preventing fuel supply or ignition in the event of potentially dangerous conditions responsive to conditions relating to the vehicle responsive to accident or emergency, e.g. deceleration, tilt of vehicle
B60L 50/60 - Electric propulsion with power supplied within the vehicle using propulsion power supplied by batteries or fuel cells using power supplied by batteries
B60L 15/20 - Methods, circuits or devices for controlling the propulsion of electrically-propelled vehicles, e.g. their traction-motor speed, to achieve a desired performanceAdaptation of control equipment on electrically-propelled vehicles for remote actuation from a stationary place, from alternative parts of the vehicle or from alternative vehicles of the same vehicle train for control of the vehicle or its driving motor to achieve a desired performance, e.g. speed, torque, programmed variation of speed
B60L 1/00 - Supplying electric power to auxiliary equipment of electrically-propelled vehicles
H04W 4/80 - Services using short range communication, e.g. near-field communication [NFC], radio-frequency identification [RFID] or low energy communication
38.
POWER AND CONTROL ASSEMBLY FOR AN ELECTRIC DRIVE APPARATUS
A drive includes an electric motor disposed in a housing and driving a motor shaft, a Hall effect sensor adjacent to the motor, a power and control assembly, and a pinion gear driven by the motor shaft. A planetary gear reduction assembly is driven by the pinion gear, and an output axle has an axis of rotation that is offset from and parallel to the motor shaft axis of rotation. The reduction drive is substantially bilaterally symmetrical about a plane passing through the motor shaft axis of rotation and the output axle axis of rotation. The power and control assembly comprises a control board oriented perpendicular to a power board and includes a heat dissipation apparatus that applies multi-point, localized, indirect pressure to a plurality of field effect transistors mounted on the power board.
H02K 11/33 - Drive circuits, e.g. power electronics
F02N 15/04 - Gearing between starting-engines and started enginesEngagement or disengagement thereof the gearing including disengaging toothed gears
B60T 13/74 - Transmitting braking action from initiating means to ultimate brake actuator with power assistance or driveBrake systems incorporating such transmitting means, e.g. air-pressure brake systems with electrical assistance or drive
An electric motor and related components, such as a motor controller assembly, are disclosed having a coolant circuit where the related components are cooled by the same fluid flow that cools the electric motor. The compact coolant circuit minimizes the need for external lines between the electric motor and related components, while providing separate heat sinks for the electric motor and, for example, a motor controller assembly. The liquid-cooled electric motor and related components may engage and power a variety of reduction output assemblies to form drive assemblies. The coolant circuit of the electric motor and its related components cooperates with an external coolant circuit to form a cooling system. The external circuit may include a radiator (e.g., heat exchanger or oil cooler) and an electric pump for the coolant which may cool one or more drive assemblies of a vehicle drive system.
An electric motor and related components, such as a motor controller assembly, are disclosed having a coolant circuit where the related components are cooled by the same fluid flow that cools the electric motor. The compact coolant circuit minimizes the need for external lines between the electric motor and related components, while providing separate heat sinks for the electric motor and, for example, a motor controller assembly. The liquid-cooled electric motor and related components may engage and power a variety of reduction output assemblies to form drive assemblies. The coolant circuit of the electric motor and its related components cooperates with an external coolant circuit to form a cooling system. The external circuit may include a radiator (e.g., heat exchanger or oil cooler) and an electric pump for the coolant which may cool one or more drive assemblies of a vehicle drive system.
A vehicle drive and control system includes an input shaft driven by a prime mover and extending into a housing to drive a generator. An electric motor powered by the generator drives an output axle, which may be a single axle extending out one side of the housing, or a through shaft extending through the electric motor and out both sides of the housing. The input shaft may be parallel to the axle. A power controller is configured to back-drive the generator when certain predetermined conditions are met. A motor controller may control an output of the motor based on input received via an operator control device, and the motor controller is configured to operate the motor as a generator under certain operating conditions. The transaxle includes a common housing in which the power generator, the motor, and controllers for the generator and electric motor are disposed.
B62D 11/04 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like by differentially driving ground-engaging elements on opposite vehicle sides by means of separate power sources
A01D 69/00 - Driving mechanisms or parts thereof for harvesters or mowers
B62D 11/00 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like
B60L 15/20 - Methods, circuits or devices for controlling the propulsion of electrically-propelled vehicles, e.g. their traction-motor speed, to achieve a desired performanceAdaptation of control equipment on electrically-propelled vehicles for remote actuation from a stationary place, from alternative parts of the vehicle or from alternative vehicles of the same vehicle train for control of the vehicle or its driving motor to achieve a desired performance, e.g. speed, torque, programmed variation of speed
A01D 69/02 - Driving mechanisms or parts thereof for harvesters or mowers electric
A01D 34/78 - Driving mechanisms for the cutters electric
B62D 11/10 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like by differentially driving ground-engaging elements on opposite vehicle sides by means of a single main power source using gearings with differential power outputs on opposite sides, e.g. twin- differential or epicyclic gears
A control system including a drive system and a blade system; a collision sensor; a main board having a main processor and in communication with the collision sensor, the drive system, and the blade system; the collision sensor, upon sensing a collision, capable of transmitting a collision signal to the main processor; the main board capable of transmitting an adjustment command to the drive system or the blade system; a vision sensor; a vision processor in communication with the vision sensor and the main processor, and capable of determining whether the image data represent an obstacle; the vision sensor capable of transmitting image data to the vision processor; when the vision processor determines the image data represent an obstacle, the vision processor capable of transmitting a collision-replicating signal to the main processor, prompting the main board to transmit the adjustment command to the drive system and/or the blade system.
A01D 34/64 - MowersMowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having rotating cutters having cutters rotating about a vertical axis mounted on a vehicle, e.g. a tractor, or drawn by an animal or a vehicle
A control assembly for use with a vehicle having a pivot arm for controlling output of the vehicle includes a bracket, a yoke attached to the pivot arm, and a shaft engaged to the yoke and extending into the bracket. The pivot arm is rotatable about a first axis of rotation between a neutral position and a plurality of forward positions and a plurality of reverse positions. When in the neutral position, the pivot arm may also rotate about a second axis of rotation between an operative position and a stopped position, and a switch may be engaged when the pivot arm is rotated to the stopped position. A return to neutral assembly may provide a return force to the pivot arm when it is rotated about the first axis of rotation away from the neutral position.
B62D 11/00 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like
B62D 11/04 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like by differentially driving ground-engaging elements on opposite vehicle sides by means of separate power sources
B60K 17/30 - Arrangement or mounting of transmissions in vehicles the ultimate propulsive elements, e.g. ground wheels, being steerable
B60K 7/00 - Disposition of motor in, or adjacent to, traction wheel
B60K 17/12 - Arrangement or mounting of transmissions in vehicles characterised by arrangement, location or kind of gearing of electric gearing
F16H 61/427 - Motor capacity control by mechanical control means, e.g. by levers or pedals
F16H 61/439 - Control of the neutral position, e.g. by zero tilt rotation holding means
G05G 5/03 - Means for enhancing the operator's awareness of the arrival of the controlling member at a command or datum positionProviding feel, e.g. means for creating a counterforce
A01D 69/02 - Driving mechanisms or parts thereof for harvesters or mowers electric
F16H 21/44 - Gearings comprising primarily only links or levers, with or without slides all movement being in, or parallel to, a single plane for conveying or interconverting oscillating or reciprocating motions
A01D 34/64 - MowersMowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having rotating cutters having cutters rotating about a vertical axis mounted on a vehicle, e.g. a tractor, or drawn by an animal or a vehicle
B60K 1/04 - Arrangement or mounting of electrical propulsion units of the electric storage means for propulsion
B60K 17/04 - Arrangement or mounting of transmissions in vehicles characterised by arrangement, location or kind of gearing
A vehicle control assembly having a control lever for controlling output of a traction drive. An operator control mechanism of the control assembly has an arm pivotable about a first pivot axis between a neutral position and a range of both forward and reverse positions. When in the neutral position, the arm can pivot about a second pivot axis between an operative and stopped position, and a switch is engaged when the arm is in the stopped position. A linkage connects the operator control mechanism to a return to neutral (RTN) module that provides a return force to the arm when it is pivoted away from the neutral position. The RTN module includes a shaft pivotable about a third pivot axis parallel to the first pivot axis and placing a magnet proximate to a magnetic field sensor chip mounted on a circuit board comprising CAN Bus and switch terminals.
B62D 11/04 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like by differentially driving ground-engaging elements on opposite vehicle sides by means of separate power sources
B60K 26/04 - Arrangement or mounting of propulsion-unit control devices in vehicles of means connecting initiating means or elements to propulsion unit
B60R 16/023 - Electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided forArrangement of elements of electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided for electric for transmission of signals between vehicle parts or subsystems
An actuator has an actuator housing engaged to a portion of a transaxle housing to define a space. A clutch assembly has a support shaft extending through the actuator housing and rotatably supporting gears in the space. At least one pin extends through one gear and a spring urges the pin into engagement with a second gear. An adjustment nut extends through the actuator housing and engages the support shaft to adjustably compress the spring. The actuator may further have an actuator housing forming a motor chamber and a gear chamber. A mounting plate detachably couples the actuator and pump housings, and the plate defines an opening through which a pump control shaft extends. A worm drive is disposed in the gear chamber and driven by an electric motor shaft, and drives a spur gear reduction, the pump control shaft being controlled by the spur gear reduction.
F16H 39/02 - Rotary fluid gearing using pumps and motors of the volumetric type, i.e. passing a predetermined volume of fluid per revolution with liquid motors at a distance from liquid pumps
B60W 10/08 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of propulsion units including control of electric propulsion units, e.g. motors or generators
B60W 10/10 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of change-speed gearings
H02K 5/22 - Auxiliary parts of casings not covered by groups , e.g. shaped to form connection boxes or terminal boxes
H02K 7/108 - Structural association with clutches, brakes, gears, pulleys or mechanical starters with friction clutches
H02K 7/116 - Structural association with clutches, brakes, gears, pulleys or mechanical starters with gears
B62D 11/04 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like by differentially driving ground-engaging elements on opposite vehicle sides by means of separate power sources
B62D 11/00 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like
F16H 1/20 - Toothed gearings for conveying rotary motion without gears having orbital motion involving more than two intermeshing members
F16H 19/08 - Gearings comprising essentially only toothed gears or friction members and not capable of conveying indefinitely-continuing rotary motion for interconverting rotary motion and oscillating motion
F16H 35/10 - Arrangements or devices for absorbing overload or preventing damage by overload
F16H 61/435 - Pump capacity control by electric actuators
F04B 17/03 - Pumps characterised by combination with, or adaptation to, specific driving engines or motors driven by electric motors
F16D 7/04 - Slip couplings, e.g. slipping on overload, for absorbing shock of the ratchet type
F16D 43/202 - Internally controlled automatic clutches actuated entirely mechanically controlled by torque, e.g. overload-release clutches, slip-clutches with means by which torque varies the clutching pressure of the ratchet type
B60W 10/02 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of driveline clutches
46.
Power and control assembly for an electric drive apparatus
A drive includes an electric motor disposed in a housing and driving a motor shaft, a Hall effect sensor adjacent to the motor, a power and control assembly, and a pinion gear driven by the motor shaft. A planetary gear reduction assembly is driven by the pinion gear, and an output axle has an axis of rotation that is offset from and parallel to the motor shaft axis of rotation. The reduction drive is substantially bilaterally symmetrical about a plane passing through the motor shaft axis of rotation and the output axle axis of rotation. The power and control assembly comprises a control board oriented perpendicular to a power board and includes a heat dissipation apparatus that applies multi-point, localized, indirect pressure to a plurality of field effect transistors mounted on the power board.
H02K 11/00 - Structural association of dynamo-electric machines with electric components or with devices for shielding, monitoring or protection
H02K 7/11 - Structural association with clutches, brakes, gears, pulleys or mechanical starters with dynamo-electric clutches
H02K 5/18 - Casings or enclosures characterised by the shape, form or construction thereof with ribs or fins for improving heat transfer
H02K 11/33 - Drive circuits, e.g. power electronics
F02N 15/04 - Gearing between starting-engines and started enginesEngagement or disengagement thereof the gearing including disengaging toothed gears
B60T 13/74 - Transmitting braking action from initiating means to ultimate brake actuator with power assistance or driveBrake systems incorporating such transmitting means, e.g. air-pressure brake systems with electrical assistance or drive
Hydro-Gear Limited Partnership, composed of AF Holding Company, a Delaware Corporation, and Danfoss Power Solutions (US) Company, a Delaware Corporation ()
Hydro-Gear Limited Partnership, composed of AF Holding Company, a Delaware Corporation, and Danfoss Power Solutions (US) Company, a Delaware Corporation ()
A utility vehicle with regenerative braking is disclosed. The utility vehicle includes a power bus, a battery coupled to the system power bus, and at least one electric drive motor to generate power through regenerative braking and supply the generated power onto the power bus. The utility vehicle includes a power regulation controller configured to direct the generated power to the battery to recharge the battery when the battery is not fully charged, direct the generated power to at least one power sink to consume the generated power when the battery is fully charged and the generated power is less than or equal to a power consumption limit, and reduce a maximum travel speed to reduce an amount of power generated by the at least one electric drive motor through regenerative braking when the battery is fully charged and the generated power is greater than the power consumption limit.
B60W 20/14 - Controlling the power contribution of each of the prime movers to meet required power demand in order to stay within battery power input or output limitsControlling the power contribution of each of the prime movers to meet required power demand in order to prevent overcharging or battery depletion in conjunction with braking regeneration
B60K 6/20 - Arrangement or mounting of plural diverse prime-movers for mutual or common propulsion, e.g. hybrid propulsion systems comprising electric motors and internal combustion engines the prime-movers consisting of electric motors and internal combustion engines, e.g. HEVs
B60W 10/30 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of auxiliary equipment, e.g. air-conditioning compressors or oil pumps
B60W 10/08 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of propulsion units including control of electric propulsion units, e.g. motors or generators
A system provided for use with a lawn mower includes a processor in communication with the lawn mower. The processor is configured to acquire geographic location data of the lawn mower and mapping data for the lawn mower as the lawn mower operates on the plot of land. The processor is configured to acquire performance data of the lawn mower as the lawn mower operates on the plot of land according to a first path and generate a map of the plot of land at least partially based on the geographic location data and the mapping data. The processor is configured to determine an operational efficiency of the lawn mower according to the first path and determine a second path for the lawn mower that increases the operational efficiency of the lawn mower for operating on the plot of land.
Vision based guidance system and method for lawn mowing devices are disclosed. An exemplary method for operating an autonomous lawn mower includes receiving, via a receiver, a perimeter data set from a handheld computer. The perimeter data set includes a perimeter outline of at least one perimeter that is determined utilizing a GPS unit of the handheld computer. The exemplary method also includes collecting, via at least one camera, images of a set area within the perimeter outline and mowing, via a mowing blade, grass within the set area. The exemplary method also includes autonomously steering, via a controller, the autonomous lawn mower based on the perimeter outline of the at least one perimeter and the images captured by the at least one camera.
B60W 10/08 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of propulsion units including control of electric propulsion units, e.g. motors or generators
B60W 10/20 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of steering systems
B60W 40/02 - Estimation or calculation of driving parameters for road vehicle drive control systems not related to the control of a particular sub-unit related to ambient conditions
G05D 1/02 - Control of position or course in two dimensions
A lawn vehicle network including a lawn vehicle including a movement mechanism and at least one rotatable blade, a circuit capable of residing on the lawn vehicle, a sensor associated with the lawn vehicle and capable of sensing at least one characteristic of the lawn vehicle, a data packet representative of the at least one characteristic of the lawn vehicle, a transmitter connected to the circuit and to a computing device, the transmitter capable of transmitting the data packet to the computing device, the computing device connected to a speaker, the speaker capable of outputting an audible command representing the at least one characteristic of the lawn vehicle.
A power and cooling assembly is disclosed for use with a vehicle having a deck for a rotatable tool such as a mowing blade. An electric motor is mounted on the deck and used to drive the blades by an output shaft. A circulating pump is connected to a housing of the electric motor and is also driven by the electric motor. The circulating pump is hydraulically connected to at least one sump on the vehicle and at least one electrical component of the vehicle to provide cooling thereto. Additional cooling pumps may be provided on the vehicle and may provide cooling to additional electrical components.
A01D 34/78 - Driving mechanisms for the cutters electric
A01D 69/02 - Driving mechanisms or parts thereof for harvesters or mowers electric
B60K 11/02 - Arrangement in connection with cooling of propulsion units with liquid cooling
H02K 7/00 - Arrangements for handling mechanical energy structurally associated with dynamo-electric machines, e.g. structural association with mechanical driving motors or auxiliary dynamo-electric machines
A01D 34/66 - MowersMowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having rotating cutters having cutters rotating about a vertical axis mounted on a vehicle, e.g. a tractor, or drawn by an animal or a vehicle with two or more cutters
Methods and apparatus are disclosed for automatic sensitivity adjustment for an autonomous mower. An exemplary mower includes a drive system and one or more cameras for capturing one or more images. One or more processors are configured to generate a grass value by applying a machine learning algorithm to the one or more images, instruct the drive system to maintain a current direction in response to determining that the grass value is greater than a mowing threshold, instruct the drive system to turn in response to determining that the grass value is less than or equal to the mowing threshold, determine a trigger rate that indicates how often the grass value is less than the mowing threshold within a predefined period of time, and decrease the mowing threshold by a predefined increment in response to determining that the trigger rate is greater than an upper threshold rate.
A vehicle having a pair of electric actuators for use with a pair of drive apparatuses is disclosed herein. For each actuator, an electric motor drives a reduction gear train to position a control shaft, the reduction gear train having a worm drive that motivates a spur gear reduction. The housing of the electric actuator features a motor chamber to accommodate the electric motor and is sealed by a cap having an electric connector.
F16H 39/02 - Rotary fluid gearing using pumps and motors of the volumetric type, i.e. passing a predetermined volume of fluid per revolution with liquid motors at a distance from liquid pumps
B60W 10/10 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of change-speed gearings
H02K 5/22 - Auxiliary parts of casings not covered by groups , e.g. shaped to form connection boxes or terminal boxes
H02K 7/108 - Structural association with clutches, brakes, gears, pulleys or mechanical starters with friction clutches
H02K 7/116 - Structural association with clutches, brakes, gears, pulleys or mechanical starters with gears
B62D 11/00 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like
F16H 1/20 - Toothed gearings for conveying rotary motion without gears having orbital motion involving more than two intermeshing members
F16H 19/08 - Gearings comprising essentially only toothed gears or friction members and not capable of conveying indefinitely-continuing rotary motion for interconverting rotary motion and oscillating motion
F16H 35/10 - Arrangements or devices for absorbing overload or preventing damage by overload
F16H 61/435 - Pump capacity control by electric actuators
B60W 10/08 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of propulsion units including control of electric propulsion units, e.g. motors or generators
F16D 43/202 - Internally controlled automatic clutches actuated entirely mechanically controlled by torque, e.g. overload-release clutches, slip-clutches with means by which torque varies the clutching pressure of the ratchet type
F16D 7/04 - Slip couplings, e.g. slipping on overload, for absorbing shock of the ratchet type
B60W 10/02 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of driveline clutches
F16D 11/10 - Clutches in which the members have interengaging parts actuated by moving a non-rotating part axially with clutching members movable only axially
A lawn mower including a vision sensor configured to capture an image, a drive system configured to move the lawn mower at a velocity and configured to change the velocity, a processor connected to the vision sensor and the drive system, the processor comprising processing logic that includes a first movement threshold, the processor configured to divide the image into a plurality of image sections, categorize, for each image section, the image data, into one of mowable image data and unmowable image data, obtain, for each image section, a percentage of unmowable image data, and assign one of a first result value and a second result value to each section based on a comparison between the percentage with the first movement threshold.
A01D 34/64 - MowersMowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having rotating cutters having cutters rotating about a vertical axis mounted on a vehicle, e.g. a tractor, or drawn by an animal or a vehicle
A drive and control system for a lawn tractor includes a CAN-Bus network, a plurality of controllers, a pair of electric transaxles controlled by the plurality of controllers, and one or more steering and drive input devices coupled to respective sensor(s) for sensing user steering and drive inputs. The plurality of controllers communicate with one or more vehicle sensors via the CAN-Bus network. The plurality of controllers receive the user's steering and drive inputs and posts on the CAN-Bus network and generate drive signals to obtain the desired speed and direction of motion of the lawn tractor.
B60W 50/14 - Means for informing the driver, warning the driver or prompting a driver intervention
B60R 21/0136 - Electrical circuits for triggering safety arrangements in case of vehicle accidents or impending vehicle accidents including means for detecting collisions, impending collisions or roll-over responsive to actual contact with an obstacle
B60W 10/08 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of propulsion units including control of electric propulsion units, e.g. motors or generators
B60W 10/06 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of propulsion units including control of combustion engines
B60W 20/50 - Control strategies for responding to system failures, e.g. for fault diagnosis, failsafe operation or limp mode
B60W 30/08 - Predicting or avoiding probable or impending collision
A01D 69/03 - Driving mechanisms or parts thereof for harvesters or mowers fluid
B60R 16/023 - Electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided forArrangement of elements of electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided for electric for transmission of signals between vehicle parts or subsystems
A01D 69/02 - Driving mechanisms or parts thereof for harvesters or mowers electric
B62D 11/04 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like by differentially driving ground-engaging elements on opposite vehicle sides by means of separate power sources
A01D 34/66 - MowersMowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having rotating cutters having cutters rotating about a vertical axis mounted on a vehicle, e.g. a tractor, or drawn by an animal or a vehicle with two or more cutters
H04W 4/80 - Services using short range communication, e.g. near-field communication [NFC], radio-frequency identification [RFID] or low energy communication
B60R 21/0132 - Electrical circuits for triggering safety arrangements in case of vehicle accidents or impending vehicle accidents including means for detecting collisions, impending collisions or roll-over responsive to vehicle motion parameters
B60Q 9/00 - Arrangement or adaptation of signal devices not provided for in one of main groups
B60K 28/14 - Safety devices for propulsion-unit control, specially adapted for, or arranged in, vehicles, e.g. preventing fuel supply or ignition in the event of potentially dangerous conditions responsive to conditions relating to the vehicle responsive to accident or emergency, e.g. deceleration, tilt of vehicle
B60L 50/60 - Electric propulsion with power supplied within the vehicle using propulsion power supplied by batteries or fuel cells using power supplied by batteries
B60L 15/20 - Methods, circuits or devices for controlling the propulsion of electrically-propelled vehicles, e.g. their traction-motor speed, to achieve a desired performanceAdaptation of control equipment on electrically-propelled vehicles for remote actuation from a stationary place, from alternative parts of the vehicle or from alternative vehicles of the same vehicle train for control of the vehicle or its driving motor to achieve a desired performance, e.g. speed, torque, programmed variation of speed
B60L 1/00 - Supplying electric power to auxiliary equipment of electrically-propelled vehicles
59.
Electric actuator and vibration damping apparatus for drive apparatus
An electric actuator for use with a variable drive apparatus is disclosed herein. The electric actuator has a rotary design incorporating a magnetic field sensor chip disposed on a circuit board to sense the rotational orientation of the magnetic field of a cylindrical diametric magnet positioned on the end of a control shaft of a hydrostatic drive unit. The circuit board includes a microprocessor, electric motor power control and CAN Bus communication capability. The gear housing of the electric actuator features an integral end cap to accommodate mounting of the electric motor to enable a compact design. A vibration damping apparatus may be utilized to improve integrity of signals generated by the magnetic field sensor chip.
F16H 57/028 - GearboxesMounting gearing therein characterised by means for reducing vibration or noise
F16H 61/435 - Pump capacity control by electric actuators
H02K 5/24 - CasingsEnclosuresSupports specially adapted for suppression or reduction of noise or vibrations
G01D 5/12 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing memberMeans for converting the output of a sensing member to another variable where the form or nature of the sensing member does not constrain the means for convertingTransducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using electric or magnetic means
H02K 7/116 - Structural association with clutches, brakes, gears, pulleys or mechanical starters with gears
H02K 11/21 - Devices for sensing speed or position, or actuated thereby
F16H 55/14 - Construction providing resilience or vibration-damping
F04B 1/295 - Control of machines or pumps with stationary cylinders by varying the relative positions of a swash plate and a cylinder block by changing the inclination of the swash plate
60.
Lawn tractor with electronic drive and control system
A drive and control system for a utility vehicle includes a CAN-Bus network and a vehicle control module operable to communicate signals to and from one or more components via the CAN-Bus network. The system includes first and second electric actuators with first and second electronic drive modules, respectively. The system includes a steering and drive input device and a steering and drive sensor module operable to post on the CAN-Bus network a steering and drive input command. The vehicle control module processes the steering and drive input command and post on the CAN-Bus network a steering and drive output command. The first and second electronic drive modules process and convert the steering and drive output command to appropriate first and second actuator commands to drive the first and second electric actuators to obtain the desired speed and direction of motion of the utility vehicle.
A01D 69/02 - Driving mechanisms or parts thereof for harvesters or mowers electric
B60R 16/023 - Electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided forArrangement of elements of electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided for electric for transmission of signals between vehicle parts or subsystems
B60K 17/00 - Arrangement or mounting of transmissions in vehicles
B60K 7/00 - Disposition of motor in, or adjacent to, traction wheel
B60K 17/356 - Arrangement or mounting of transmissions in vehicles for driving both front and rear wheels, e.g. four wheel drive vehicles having fluid or electric motor, for driving one or more wheels
B60K 17/14 - Arrangement or mounting of transmissions in vehicles characterised by arrangement, location or kind of gearing the motor of fluid or electric gearing being disposed in, or adjacent to, traction wheel
A01D 34/66 - MowersMowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having rotating cutters having cutters rotating about a vertical axis mounted on a vehicle, e.g. a tractor, or drawn by an animal or a vehicle with two or more cutters
A vehicle transmission housing has first and second axle housings pivotably connected to opposite ends of the transmission housing and a stand-on platform may be connected to the assembly. A first gear train in the first axle housing drives a first axle having a first axis of rotation. A second gear train is disposed in the second axle housing drives a second axle having a second axis of rotation collinear with the first axis of rotation. The axle housings are both capable of pivoting about the transmission housing about a third axis that is parallel to the first and second axes. The first and second axle housings may also be separately rigidly or flexibly connected to one another. This assembly permits adjustment of the ground heights of the platform with respect to a vehicle frame.
F16H 47/02 - Combinations of mechanical gearing with fluid clutches or fluid gearing the fluid gearing being of the volumetric type
F16H 39/14 - Rotary fluid gearing using pumps and motors of the volumetric type, i.e. passing a predetermined volume of fluid per revolution with liquid motor and pump combined in one unit pump and motor being of the same type each with one main shaft and provided with pistons reciprocating in cylinders with cylinders arranged around, and parallel or approximately parallel to, the main axis of the gearing with cylinders carried in rotary cylinder blocks or cylinder-bearing members
B60K 17/10 - Arrangement or mounting of transmissions in vehicles characterised by arrangement, location or kind of gearing of fluid gearing
B60K 17/04 - Arrangement or mounting of transmissions in vehicles characterised by arrangement, location or kind of gearing
B62D 11/12 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like by differentially driving ground-engaging elements on opposite vehicle sides by means of a single main power source using gearings with differential power outputs on opposite sides, e.g. twin- differential or epicyclic gears using separate change-speed gearings
A control system including a drive system and a blade system; a collision sensor; a main board having a main processor and in communication with the collision sensor, the drive system, and the blade system; the collision sensor, upon sensing a collision, capable of transmitting a collision signal to the main processor; the main board capable of transmitting an adjustment command to the drive system or the blade system; a vision sensor; a vision processor in communication with the vision sensor and the main processor, and capable of determining whether the image data represent an obstacle; the vision sensor capable of transmitting image data to the vision processor; when the vision processor determines the image data represent an obstacle, the vision processor capable of transmitting a collision-replicating signal to the main processor, prompting the main board to transmit the adjustment command to the drive system and/or the blade system.
A01D 34/64 - MowersMowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having rotating cutters having cutters rotating about a vertical axis mounted on a vehicle, e.g. a tractor, or drawn by an animal or a vehicle
A lawn mower includes a pair of electric motors configured to drive respective driven wheels and a control assembly. The control assembly includes a controller configured to control operation of the pair of electric motors, a bracket, a pivot bar, and rotation assembly. The rotation assembly is configured to rotatably mount the pivot bar to the bracket such that the pivot bar is configured to rotate between a forward position, a neutral position, and a rear position about a first axis and between an operative position and a stopped position about a second axis. The control assembly also includes a magnet and a position sensor spaced apart from the magnet. The position sensor is configured to detect rotation of the pivot bar about the first axis. The lawn mower also includes a return-to-neutral assembly configured to bias the pivot bar toward the neutral position about the first axis.
A reduction drive assembly includes a planetary gear assembly. The planetary gear assembly includes a first gear carrier that includes a first plate and projections extending therefrom. The first plate defines first support openings. The planetary gear assembly includes a second gear carrier that defines second support openings and joint openings. The joint openings receive the projections to couple the first and second gear carriers. The planetary gear assembly includes a sun gear coupled to an output shaft and disposed between the first and second gear carriers. The planetary gear assembly includes planet gears disposed around the sun gear between the first and second gear carriers. Each of the planet gears has a carrier pin. Each carrier pin is received by one of the first support openings and one of the second support openings to retain the planet gears between the first and second gear carriers.
A drive system for a vehicle having a rear drive assembly powered by a first power source, a front drive assembly in selective electrical communication with a second power source, a selector switch to selectively permit or prevent electrical communication between the front drive assembly and the second power source, and an output capacity sensor to detect an output of the first power source, where the rear drive assembly drives the vehicle when the selector switch is in a first position and both the rear and front drive assemblies drive the vehicle when the selector switch is in a second position and the output capacity sensor detects that the output of the first power source meets a threshold output.
B60K 17/354 - Arrangement or mounting of transmissions in vehicles for driving both front and rear wheels, e.g. four wheel drive vehicles having separate mechanical assemblies for transmitting drive to the front or to the rear wheels or set of wheels
B60K 6/24 - Arrangement or mounting of plural diverse prime-movers for mutual or common propulsion, e.g. hybrid propulsion systems comprising electric motors and internal combustion engines the prime-movers consisting of electric motors and internal combustion engines, e.g. HEVs characterised by apparatus, components or means specially adapted for HEVs characterised by the combustion engines
B60K 17/34 - Arrangement or mounting of transmissions in vehicles for driving both front and rear wheels, e.g. four wheel drive vehicles
B60K 17/348 - Arrangement or mounting of transmissions in vehicles for driving both front and rear wheels, e.g. four wheel drive vehicles having differential means for driving one set of wheels, e.g. the front, at one speed and the other set, e.g. the rear, at a different speeds
B60L 50/52 - Electric propulsion with power supplied within the vehicle using propulsion power supplied by batteries or fuel cells characterised by DC-motors
B60K 17/356 - Arrangement or mounting of transmissions in vehicles for driving both front and rear wheels, e.g. four wheel drive vehicles having fluid or electric motor, for driving one or more wheels
B60K 6/26 - Arrangement or mounting of plural diverse prime-movers for mutual or common propulsion, e.g. hybrid propulsion systems comprising electric motors and internal combustion engines the prime-movers consisting of electric motors and internal combustion engines, e.g. HEVs characterised by apparatus, components or means specially adapted for HEVs characterised by the motors or the generators
B60K 6/52 - Driving a plurality of drive axles, e.g. four-wheel drive
B60W 10/08 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of propulsion units including control of electric propulsion units, e.g. motors or generators
B60L 50/51 - Electric propulsion with power supplied within the vehicle using propulsion power supplied by batteries or fuel cells characterised by AC-motors
B60L 58/21 - Methods or circuit arrangements for monitoring or controlling batteries or fuel cells, specially adapted for electric vehicles for monitoring or controlling batteries of two or more battery modules having the same nominal voltage
B60K 6/28 - Arrangement or mounting of plural diverse prime-movers for mutual or common propulsion, e.g. hybrid propulsion systems comprising electric motors and internal combustion engines the prime-movers consisting of electric motors and internal combustion engines, e.g. HEVs characterised by apparatus, components or means specially adapted for HEVs characterised by the electric energy storing means, e.g. batteries or capacitors
B60K 6/36 - Arrangement or mounting of plural diverse prime-movers for mutual or common propulsion, e.g. hybrid propulsion systems comprising electric motors and internal combustion engines the prime-movers consisting of electric motors and internal combustion engines, e.g. HEVs characterised by apparatus, components or means specially adapted for HEVs characterised by the transmission gearings
B60K 1/04 - Arrangement or mounting of electrical propulsion units of the electric storage means for propulsion
B60K 1/02 - Arrangement or mounting of electrical propulsion units comprising more than one electric motor
B60K 23/08 - Arrangement or mounting of control devices for vehicle transmissions, or parts thereof, not otherwise provided for for changing number of driven wheels
B60K 1/00 - Arrangement or mounting of electrical propulsion units
A reduction drive assembly includes a spindle that defines an aperture and a motor output shaft extending through the aperture. The reduction drive assembly includes an output hub and a planetary gear assembly. The planetary gear assembly includes a ring gear fixed to the output hub, a first stage sun gear coupled to and driven by the motor output shaft, a second stage sun gear, a planetary gear carrier engaged to the second stage sun gear, first stage planetary gears each of which is supported by a respective support pin of the planetary gear carrier and meshed with the first stage sun gear and the ring gear, carrier pins extending from a first end of the spindle, and second stage reduction gears each of which is rotationally mounted on a respective one of the carrier pins and is meshed with the second stage sun gear and the ring gear.
An expansion tank includes a tank body mounted inside a housing forming a sump, and defining an internal expansion volume. A fluid inlet opening in the tank body is in communication with the sump and the expansion volume. A combination valve may be disposed on a lower end of the tank to control fluid flow between the sump and the expansion volume. The valve may be a combination duckbill valve and umbrella valve. Fluid enters the expansion volume through the umbrella valve when sump pressure exceeds expansion volume pressure by a first predetermined amount, and fluid exits the expansion volume through the duckbill valve to the sump when expansion volume pressure exceeds sump pressure by a second predetermined amount. The tank body may include a cover on which an inlet tube is formed.
F16H 57/04 - Features relating to lubrication or cooling
B60K 17/04 - Arrangement or mounting of transmissions in vehicles characterised by arrangement, location or kind of gearing
B60K 17/346 - Arrangement or mounting of transmissions in vehicles for driving both front and rear wheels, e.g. four wheel drive vehicles having a transfer gear the transfer gear being a differential gear
B60K 17/10 - Arrangement or mounting of transmissions in vehicles characterised by arrangement, location or kind of gearing of fluid gearing
B60K 17/344 - Arrangement or mounting of transmissions in vehicles for driving both front and rear wheels, e.g. four wheel drive vehicles having a transfer gear
F16H 1/22 - Toothed gearings for conveying rotary motion without gears having orbital motion involving more than two intermeshing members with a plurality of driving or driven shaftsToothed gearings for conveying rotary motion without gears having orbital motion involving more than two intermeshing members with arrangements for dividing torque between two or more intermediate shafts
B60K 17/342 - Arrangement or mounting of transmissions in vehicles for driving both front and rear wheels, e.g. four wheel drive vehicles having a longitudinal, endless element, e.g. belt or chain, for transmitting drive to wheels
F16D 55/40 - Brakes with a plurality of rotating discs all lying side by side actuated by a fluid-pressure device arranged in or on the brake
B60K 17/14 - Arrangement or mounting of transmissions in vehicles characterised by arrangement, location or kind of gearing the motor of fluid or electric gearing being disposed in, or adjacent to, traction wheel
B60K 17/356 - Arrangement or mounting of transmissions in vehicles for driving both front and rear wheels, e.g. four wheel drive vehicles having fluid or electric motor, for driving one or more wheels
F16H 39/14 - Rotary fluid gearing using pumps and motors of the volumetric type, i.e. passing a predetermined volume of fluid per revolution with liquid motor and pump combined in one unit pump and motor being of the same type each with one main shaft and provided with pistons reciprocating in cylinders with cylinders arranged around, and parallel or approximately parallel to, the main axis of the gearing with cylinders carried in rotary cylinder blocks or cylinder-bearing members
F16H 61/4096 - Fluid exchange between hydrostatic circuits and external sources or consumers with pressure accumulators
F16K 17/18 - Safety valvesEqualising valves opening on surplus pressure on either side
F16K 17/19 - Equalising valves predominantly for tanks
F16K 17/26 - Excess-flow valves actuated by the difference of pressure between two places in the flow line acting directly on the cutting-off member operating in either direction
Hydro-Gear Limited Partnership, Limited Partnership composed of AF Holding Company, a Delaware Corporation and Danfoss Power Solutions (US) Company, a Delaware Corporation ()
Hydro-Gear Limited Partnership, Limited Partnership composed of AF Holding Company, a Delaware Corporation and Danfoss Power Solutions (US) Company, a Delaware Corporation ()
Hydro-Gear Limited Partnership, Limited Partnership composed of AF Holding Company, a Delaware Corporation and Danfoss Power Solutions (US) Company, a Delaware Corporation ()
Hydro-Gear Limited Partnership, Limited Partnership composed of AF Holding Company, a Delaware Corporation and Danfoss Power Solutions (US) Company, a Delaware Corporation ()
A reduction drive assembly includes a housing and a flange. Outer surfaces of the spindle and the flange form at least one fillet corner. A motor output shaft extends through an aperture of the spindle. The reduction drive assembly includes a planetary gear assembly that includes a sun gear driven by the motor output shaft and gears. The reduction drive assembly includes a fixed ring gear that is meshed with a second stage gear of each of the planet gears, an output hub, a rotating ring gear coupled to the output hub and meshed with a first stage gear of each of the planet gears, a set of bearings positioned radially between the spindle and the output hub and axially between the fixed ring gear and the flange of the housing, and a spacer ring positioned between the set of bearings and adjacent the at least one fillet corner.
A control system is disclosed for use in a zero turn vehicle, including an electric controller in communication with a pair of independent drive units. A joystick is pivotable between a plurality of pivot positions, each pivot position corresponding to a particular rotational speed and direction of each driven wheel. A plurality of driving modes stored in the controller each map a different set of speeds and directions for each driven wheel onto the plurality of pivot positions. The joystick may also rotate about a vertical axis to provide zero turn capability. In at least one driving mode, when the rotational speed of one driven wheel is zero, the rotational speed of the other driven wheels is zero, and when the rotational speed of one driven wheel is non-zero, the rotational speed of the other driven wheel is non-zero.
B62D 11/02 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like by differentially driving ground-engaging elements on opposite vehicle sides
B62D 11/00 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like
B62D 11/04 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like by differentially driving ground-engaging elements on opposite vehicle sides by means of separate power sources
A hydraulic fluid expansion tank is located inside a housing of a drive device. The expansion tank comprises a siphon tube in communication with a sump located within the drive device and also comprises a vent opening in communication with a vent of the drive device that is in communication with atmospheric pressure. The fluid expansion tank is positioned and restrained within the drive device without the use of fasteners.
F16H 57/04 - Features relating to lubrication or cooling
F16H 1/22 - Toothed gearings for conveying rotary motion without gears having orbital motion involving more than two intermeshing members with a plurality of driving or driven shaftsToothed gearings for conveying rotary motion without gears having orbital motion involving more than two intermeshing members with arrangements for dividing torque between two or more intermediate shafts
An electric brake assembly for a planetary reduction drive includes a first housing defining a brake housing compartment, first and second stators disposed within the brake housing compartment, and a rotor disposed within the brake housing compartment between the first and second stators. The rotor has a spline engaging an output shaft of a motor. The electric brake assembly also includes a brake end cap coupled to the first housing and defining a cylindrical volume, a plug movably disposed in the cylindrical volume of the brake end cap, a spring disposed within the cylindrical volume of the brake end cap and compressed by the plug to apply a spring biasing force for pressing the second stator against the rotor, and an electric brake coil positioned adjacent to the second stator to electromagnetically pull the second stator away from the rotor when energized.
H02K 7/102 - Structural association with clutches, brakes, gears, pulleys or mechanical starters with friction brakes
H02K 7/00 - Arrangements for handling mechanical energy structurally associated with dynamo-electric machines, e.g. structural association with mechanical driving motors or auxiliary dynamo-electric machines
H02K 11/215 - Magnetic effect devices, e.g. Hall-effect or magneto-resistive elements
F16H 1/46 - Systems consisting of a plurality of gear trains, each with orbital gears
H02K 7/116 - Structural association with clutches, brakes, gears, pulleys or mechanical starters with gears
A reduction drive including an electric motor disposed in a housing and driving a motor shaft, a Hall Effect sensor adjacent to the motor, a power and control module, and a pinion gear in the housing and driven by the motor shaft. A planetary gear reduction assembly includes a first ring gear rotatably disposed in the housing and driven by the pinion gear, a sun gear engaged to and driven by the first ring gear, a second ring gear non-rotatably fixed to a housing surface, and a plurality of planet gears mounted on a carrier assembly, each planet gear rotating with the sun gear, and on the second ring gear. An output axle is driven by the carrier assembly and has an axis of rotation that is offset from and parallel to the motor shaft axis of rotation.
A01D 34/69 - MowersMowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having rotating cutters having cutters rotating about a vertical axis hand-guided by a walking operator with motor driven cutters or wheels with motor driven wheels
F16H 1/28 - Toothed gearings for conveying rotary motion with gears having orbital motion
B60L 50/10 - Electric propulsion with power supplied within the vehicle using propulsion power supplied by engine-driven generators, e.g. generators driven by combustion engines
H02K 7/116 - Structural association with clutches, brakes, gears, pulleys or mechanical starters with gears
A performance learning system and method is provided for a utility vehicle. The performance learning system includes a propulsion system, a plurality of sensors disposed on the vehicle and capable of acquiring operational data associated with the vehicle, a processor, and a memory configured to store historical operational data. The processor can be configured to receive the operational data from the sensors, generate and transmit a command to control the propulsion system based on the operational data and the historical operational data, and update the historical operational data based on the operational data. The operational data may include characteristics associated with one or more of an operator of the vehicle or an operating environment of the vehicle. The systems and methods may optimize the performance of the utility vehicle for particular environments and conditions in which the utility vehicle is being operated and increase operator satisfaction.
B60L 15/20 - Methods, circuits or devices for controlling the propulsion of electrically-propelled vehicles, e.g. their traction-motor speed, to achieve a desired performanceAdaptation of control equipment on electrically-propelled vehicles for remote actuation from a stationary place, from alternative parts of the vehicle or from alternative vehicles of the same vehicle train for control of the vehicle or its driving motor to achieve a desired performance, e.g. speed, torque, programmed variation of speed
G05B 13/02 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric
G07C 5/08 - Registering or indicating performance data other than driving, working, idle, or waiting time, with or without registering driving, working, idle, or waiting time
G07C 5/02 - Registering or indicating driving, working, idle, or waiting time only
80.
Electric actuator for use on a hydraulic drive device
An electric actuator assembly for controlling the output of a variable output drive device such as a hydraulic transaxle or pump having an output shaft connected to a swash plate for rotation thereof to control the output of the drive device. The output shaft is engaged to and driven by a control shaft of an electric actuator. The assembly includes a clamping coupler to connect and align the output shaft and the control shaft, thereby permitting use of the electric actuator with multiple drive device designs without the need to modify the control shaft of the drive device.
A system for remotely controlling mower operations includes a mower and a remote server. The mower includes a plurality of wheels and a plurality of blades. The mower also includes an onboard processor configured to control operation of the mower and a transceiver configured to communicate with the mobile device via a wireless area network. The remote server is configured to communicate with the mobile device via a cellular network to receive real-time streaming of a GPS location collected from a GPS unit of the mobile device. The remote server also is configured to determine, in real-time, a command signal for the mower based on the GPS location and transmit, in real-time, the command signal to the onboard processor via the mobile device to instruct the onboard processor to modify one or more mower operational parameters.
A hydrostatic drive includes a transmission having a pump and motor disposed on a center section, and a charge pump to provide fluid to a charge gallery. A power take off (PTO) driven by a prime mover includes a clutch assembly, solenoid valve, and PTO drive member driven by a prime mover input. When the solenoid valve is in a first position, fluid flows from the charge gallery to the clutch to connect the input with the PTO drive member, and when the solenoid valve is in a second position, fluid flows from the PTO mechanism to the sump to disengage the PTO drive member from the input. A filter may be disposed on a land on the center section and seated in a filter pocket in the housing. The filter engages with a bottom surface of the filter pocket to maintain a seal against the land.
F16H 61/4157 - Control of braking, e.g. preventing pump over-speeding when motor acts as a pump
F03C 1/06 - Reciprocating-piston liquid engines with multiple cylinders, characterised by the number or arrangement of cylinders with cylinder axes generally coaxial with, or parallel or inclined to, main shaft axis
B62D 5/20 - Power-assisted or power-driven steering fluid, i.e. using a pressurised fluid for most or all the force required for steering a vehicle specially adapted for particular type of steering gear or particular application
B62D 5/22 - Power-assisted or power-driven steering fluid, i.e. using a pressurised fluid for most or all the force required for steering a vehicle specially adapted for particular type of steering gear or particular application for rack-and-pinion type
F16H 39/02 - Rotary fluid gearing using pumps and motors of the volumetric type, i.e. passing a predetermined volume of fluid per revolution with liquid motors at a distance from liquid pumps
F15B 11/16 - Servomotor systems without provision for follow-up action with two or more servomotors
F15B 15/06 - Mechanical layout characterised by the means for converting the movement of the fluid-actuated element into movement of the finally-operated member for mechanically converting rectilinear movement into non-rectilinear movement
Hydro-Gear Limited Partnership, Limited Partnership composed of AF Holding Company, a Delaware Corporation and Danfoss Power Solutions (US) Company, a Delaware Corporation ()
A hybrid vehicle using an engine driving a generator to supply power to electric drive motors through a system power bus, and a method for controlling power regeneration in a hybrid vehicle are disclosed. Ground drive controllers associated with the drive motors are configured to determine a slope of a surface on which the vehicle is driving and set a maximum downhill speed of the vehicle based thereon. A generator controller, in response to the drive motors generating power through regenerative braking, regulates power on the bus by directing the generated power to recharge the battery when the battery has capacity, reducing an output of the generator to the bus when the battery is fully charged, and driving a driveshaft to drive the engine with the generator to consume excess power on the bus when the generator output is reduced to zero.
B60W 20/14 - Controlling the power contribution of each of the prime movers to meet required power demand in order to stay within battery power input or output limitsControlling the power contribution of each of the prime movers to meet required power demand in order to prevent overcharging or battery depletion in conjunction with braking regeneration
B60K 6/20 - Arrangement or mounting of plural diverse prime-movers for mutual or common propulsion, e.g. hybrid propulsion systems comprising electric motors and internal combustion engines the prime-movers consisting of electric motors and internal combustion engines, e.g. HEVs
B60W 10/30 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of auxiliary equipment, e.g. air-conditioning compressors or oil pumps
B60W 10/08 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of propulsion units including control of electric propulsion units, e.g. motors or generators
A hydraulic motor apparatus includes a motor housing engaged to an end cap having a first porting system and an adapter connected to an external surface of the end cap and having a second porting system. A filter may be attached to the adapter and connected to the second porting system and a pressure reducing valve in the adapter is connected to the second porting system. The assembly may also include a controller operatively connected to the pressure reducing valve and system sensors measuring parameters affected by the output of the hydraulic motor apparatus, whereby the pressure reducing valve is operatively controlled by the controller in response to input from the system sensors.
F01B 3/00 - Reciprocating-piston machines or engines with cylinder axes coaxial with, or parallel or inclined to, main shaft axis
F03C 1/34 - Distribution members specially adapted for multiple-cylinder engines
F03C 1/06 - Reciprocating-piston liquid engines with multiple cylinders, characterised by the number or arrangement of cylinders with cylinder axes generally coaxial with, or parallel or inclined to, main shaft axis
F15B 21/041 - Removal or measurement of solid or liquid contamination, e.g. filtering
F04B 1/324 - Control of machines or pumps with rotary cylinder blocks by varying the relative positions of a swash plate and a cylinder block by changing the inclination of the swash plate
F04B 49/03 - Stopping, starting, unloading or idling control by means of valves
F04B 1/30 - Control of machines or pumps with rotary cylinder blocks
F04B 1/2021 - Details or component parts characterised by the contact area between cylinder barrel and valve plate
F04B 49/00 - Control of, or safety measures for, machines, pumps, or pumping installations, not otherwise provided for in, or of interest apart from, groups
F04B 17/03 - Pumps characterised by combination with, or adaptation to, specific driving engines or motors driven by electric motors
F16H 39/14 - Rotary fluid gearing using pumps and motors of the volumetric type, i.e. passing a predetermined volume of fluid per revolution with liquid motor and pump combined in one unit pump and motor being of the same type each with one main shaft and provided with pistons reciprocating in cylinders with cylinders arranged around, and parallel or approximately parallel to, the main axis of the gearing with cylinders carried in rotary cylinder blocks or cylinder-bearing members
F04B 23/06 - Combinations of two or more pumps the pumps being all of reciprocating positive-displacement type
86.
Vehicle having electric drive and operator platform
A zero turn vehicle is disclosed, having an operator platform located adjacent to the rear of the frame. An upright riser is disposed on the frame. The vehicle uses first and second electric drive transmissions to drive the output wheels. An electrical bus or controllers may be mounted on a panel of the upright riser to assist in providing a compact design. A pair of drive levers is mounted on the upright riser for controlling the output of the vehicle.
B62D 11/04 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like by differentially driving ground-engaging elements on opposite vehicle sides by means of separate power sources
A01D 34/64 - MowersMowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having rotating cutters having cutters rotating about a vertical axis mounted on a vehicle, e.g. a tractor, or drawn by an animal or a vehicle
B60K 6/40 - Arrangement or mounting of plural diverse prime-movers for mutual or common propulsion, e.g. hybrid propulsion systems comprising electric motors and internal combustion engines the prime-movers consisting of electric motors and internal combustion engines, e.g. HEVs characterised by apparatus, components or means specially adapted for HEVs characterised by the assembly or relative disposition of components
B60K 17/12 - Arrangement or mounting of transmissions in vehicles characterised by arrangement, location or kind of gearing of electric gearing
A01D 69/02 - Driving mechanisms or parts thereof for harvesters or mowers electric
B62D 11/00 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like
B60L 50/10 - Electric propulsion with power supplied within the vehicle using propulsion power supplied by engine-driven generators, e.g. generators driven by combustion engines
B62D 49/06 - Tractors adapted for multi-purpose use
A control assembly for use with a vehicle having a pivot arm for controlling output of the vehicle includes a bracket, a yoke attached to the pivot arm, and a shaft engaged to the yoke and extending into the bracket. The pivot arm is rotatable about a first axis of rotation between a neutral position and a plurality of forward positions and a plurality of reverse positions. When in the neutral position, the pivot arm may also rotate about a second axis of rotation between an operative position and a stopped position, and a switch may be engaged when the pivot arm is rotated to the stopped position. A return to neutral assembly may provide a return force to the pivot arm when it is rotated about the first axis of rotation away from the neutral position.
B62D 11/00 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like
B62D 11/04 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like by differentially driving ground-engaging elements on opposite vehicle sides by means of separate power sources
B60K 17/30 - Arrangement or mounting of transmissions in vehicles the ultimate propulsive elements, e.g. ground wheels, being steerable
F16H 61/427 - Motor capacity control by mechanical control means, e.g. by levers or pedals
F16H 61/439 - Control of the neutral position, e.g. by zero tilt rotation holding means
B60K 7/00 - Disposition of motor in, or adjacent to, traction wheel
B60K 17/12 - Arrangement or mounting of transmissions in vehicles characterised by arrangement, location or kind of gearing of electric gearing
G05G 5/03 - Means for enhancing the operator's awareness of the arrival of the controlling member at a command or datum positionProviding feel, e.g. means for creating a counterforce
F16H 21/44 - Gearings comprising primarily only links or levers, with or without slides all movement being in, or parallel to, a single plane for conveying or interconverting oscillating or reciprocating motions
B60K 1/04 - Arrangement or mounting of electrical propulsion units of the electric storage means for propulsion
A01D 34/64 - MowersMowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having rotating cutters having cutters rotating about a vertical axis mounted on a vehicle, e.g. a tractor, or drawn by an animal or a vehicle
A hydrostatic transmission assembly includes a first housing member and a housing cap sealed to the first housing member to form a sump wherein a pump and motor are rotatably disposed. A pump mount is located in the sump and engaged to the housing cap. The housing cap also includes a motor mount for an axial piston motor, and hydraulic fluid passages for connecting the pump to the motor. A pocket is located in the housing cap to rotationally support a swash plate for the pump.
F16H 39/08 - Rotary fluid gearing using pumps and motors of the volumetric type, i.e. passing a predetermined volume of fluid per revolution with liquid motor and pump combined in one unit pump and motor being of the same type each with one main shaft and provided with pistons reciprocating in cylinders
F16H 39/14 - Rotary fluid gearing using pumps and motors of the volumetric type, i.e. passing a predetermined volume of fluid per revolution with liquid motor and pump combined in one unit pump and motor being of the same type each with one main shaft and provided with pistons reciprocating in cylinders with cylinders arranged around, and parallel or approximately parallel to, the main axis of the gearing with cylinders carried in rotary cylinder blocks or cylinder-bearing members
F16H 61/437 - Pump capacity control by mechanical control means, e.g. by levers or pedals
F16H 61/42 - Control of exclusively fluid gearing hydrostatic involving adjustment of a pump or motor with adjustable output or capacity
B60K 17/10 - Arrangement or mounting of transmissions in vehicles characterised by arrangement, location or kind of gearing of fluid gearing
E01H 5/04 - Apparatus propelled by animal or engine powerApparatus propelled by hand with driven dislodging or conveying elements, e.g. conveying pneumatically
A drive assembly for a vehicle is provided, the vehicle having a frame, a prime mover and a pair of driven wheels. The drive assembly includes a transmission having a housing in which a pump and motor may be disposed. The transmission may be pivotally mounted to the frame and movable between at least two positions. The transmission may include an internal reduction gear assembly driven by a motor output shaft, a transmission output shaft disposed generally parallel to the motor output shaft and driven by the internal reduction gear assembly, the transmission output shaft extending from the transmission at both ends thereof. Each end of the transmission output shaft may drive an external reduction assembly supported in part by the frame, and the external reduction assemblies power at least a driven wheel of the vehicle.
B60K 17/08 - Arrangement or mounting of transmissions in vehicles characterised by arrangement, location or kind of gearing of change-speed gearing of mechanical type
B60K 17/10 - Arrangement or mounting of transmissions in vehicles characterised by arrangement, location or kind of gearing of fluid gearing
F16H 61/437 - Pump capacity control by mechanical control means, e.g. by levers or pedals
F16H 9/24 - Gearings for conveying rotary motion with variable gear ratio, or for reversing rotary motion, by endless flexible members without members having orbital motion using chains, toothed belts, belts in the form of linksChains or belts specially adapted to such gearing
A drive and control system for a lawn tractor includes a CAN-Bus network, a vehicle controller, a pair of hydrostatic or electric transaxles controlled by respective electronic drive controllers, and one or more steering and drive input devices coupled to respective sensor(s) for sensing user steering and drive inputs. The vehicle controller communicates with one or more vehicle sensors and one or more vehicle controllers that control one or more vehicle components via the CAN-Bus network. The vehicle controller processes the user's steering and drive inputs and posts on the CAN-Bus network digital drive signals configured to obtain the desired speed and direction of motion of the lawn tractor. The electronic drive controllers convert the digital drive signals to appropriate signals for driving the hydrostatic transaxles or the electric transaxles, as equipped, based on tunable motion parameters to obtain the desired speed and direction of motion of the lawn tractor.
B60W 50/14 - Means for informing the driver, warning the driver or prompting a driver intervention
B60R 21/0136 - Electrical circuits for triggering safety arrangements in case of vehicle accidents or impending vehicle accidents including means for detecting collisions, impending collisions or roll-over responsive to actual contact with an obstacle
B60W 10/08 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of propulsion units including control of electric propulsion units, e.g. motors or generators
B60W 10/06 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of propulsion units including control of combustion engines
B60W 20/50 - Control strategies for responding to system failures, e.g. for fault diagnosis, failsafe operation or limp mode
B60W 30/08 - Predicting or avoiding probable or impending collision
A01D 69/03 - Driving mechanisms or parts thereof for harvesters or mowers fluid
B60K 1/02 - Arrangement or mounting of electrical propulsion units comprising more than one electric motor
H04W 4/80 - Services using short range communication, e.g. near-field communication [NFC], radio-frequency identification [RFID] or low energy communication
A01D 34/66 - MowersMowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having rotating cutters having cutters rotating about a vertical axis mounted on a vehicle, e.g. a tractor, or drawn by an animal or a vehicle with two or more cutters
91.
Lawn tractor with electronic drive and control system
A drive and control system for a lawn tractor includes one or more sensors configured to detect an operational parameter of an aspect of the vehicle, and one or more controllers for controlling one or more components of the vehicle and for receiving data output from the one or more sensors. The controller communicates with the one or more sensors and one or more vehicle modules configured to control one or more vehicle components via a CAN Bus network. The controller may be coupled to an IMU mounted on the vehicle for dynamically controlling the vehicle on sloped terrain, for example. The controller may be accessible from a remote device over a wireless network for communicating setup, diagnostic, and performance data to and from the vehicle.
B60R 16/023 - Electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided forArrangement of elements of electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided for electric for transmission of signals between vehicle parts or subsystems
A drive and control system for a lawn tractor includes a CAN-Bus network, a vehicle controller, a pair of hydrostatic or electric transaxles controlled by respective electronic drive controllers, and one or more steering and drive input devices coupled to respective sensor(s) for sensing user steering and drive inputs. The vehicle controller communicates with one or more vehicle sensors and one or more vehicle controllers that control one or more vehicle components via the CAN-Bus network. The vehicle controller processes the user's steering and drive inputs and posts on the CAN-Bus network digital drive signals configured to obtain the desired speed and direction of motion of the lawn tractor. The electronic drive controllers convert the digital drive signals to appropriate signals for driving the hydrostatic transaxles or the electric transaxles, as equipped, based on tunable motion parameters to obtain the desired speed and direction of motion of the lawn tractor.
B60R 16/023 - Electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided forArrangement of elements of electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided for electric for transmission of signals between vehicle parts or subsystems
A01D 69/02 - Driving mechanisms or parts thereof for harvesters or mowers electric
B62D 11/04 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like by differentially driving ground-engaging elements on opposite vehicle sides by means of separate power sources
A01D 34/66 - MowersMowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having rotating cutters having cutters rotating about a vertical axis mounted on a vehicle, e.g. a tractor, or drawn by an animal or a vehicle with two or more cutters
B60N 2/00 - Seats specially adapted for vehiclesArrangement or mounting of seats in vehicles
B60T 17/22 - Devices for monitoring or checking brake systemsSignal devices
B60R 21/0136 - Electrical circuits for triggering safety arrangements in case of vehicle accidents or impending vehicle accidents including means for detecting collisions, impending collisions or roll-over responsive to actual contact with an obstacle
B60R 21/0132 - Electrical circuits for triggering safety arrangements in case of vehicle accidents or impending vehicle accidents including means for detecting collisions, impending collisions or roll-over responsive to vehicle motion parameters
B60Q 9/00 - Arrangement or adaptation of signal devices not provided for in one of main groups
B60K 28/14 - Safety devices for propulsion-unit control, specially adapted for, or arranged in, vehicles, e.g. preventing fuel supply or ignition in the event of potentially dangerous conditions responsive to conditions relating to the vehicle responsive to accident or emergency, e.g. deceleration, tilt of vehicle
B60L 50/60 - Electric propulsion with power supplied within the vehicle using propulsion power supplied by batteries or fuel cells using power supplied by batteries
B60L 15/20 - Methods, circuits or devices for controlling the propulsion of electrically-propelled vehicles, e.g. their traction-motor speed, to achieve a desired performanceAdaptation of control equipment on electrically-propelled vehicles for remote actuation from a stationary place, from alternative parts of the vehicle or from alternative vehicles of the same vehicle train for control of the vehicle or its driving motor to achieve a desired performance, e.g. speed, torque, programmed variation of speed
B60L 1/00 - Supplying electric power to auxiliary equipment of electrically-propelled vehicles
A vent for a hydraulic drive device disposed in a housing includes a vent body having a closed first side, a second side having an opening, and a sidewall. An internal passageway in the vent body connects the second side opening to the atmosphere. The vent body is removably disposed in a vent opening in one of two positions. When the first side of the vent body is inserted into the vent opening, the closed first side prevents communication between the sump and atmosphere, and when the second side of the vent body is inserted into the vent opening, the internal passageway and the second side opening permit communication between the internal sump and atmosphere.
B60K 8/00 - Arrangement or mounting of propulsion units not provided for in one of main groups
E01H 5/08 - Apparatus propelled by animal or engine powerApparatus propelled by hand with driven dislodging or conveying elements, e.g. conveying pneumatically dislodging essentially by driven elements
A drive and control system is provided for use on a zero turn vehicle, and includes first and second hydraulic ground drives independently driving a set of driven wheels. Each ground drive has an electric actuator to control the output thereof. An operator mechanism generates a drive signal corresponding to a neutral drive position or to one of a plurality of non-neutral drive positions of the operator mechanism, and a steering signal corresponding to a neutral steering position or to one of a plurality of non-neutral steering positions of the operator mechanism. Sensors generate signals corresponding to sensed roll, pitch and yaw parameters. A stability control module includes a processor for receiving the drive and steering signals and for providing output signals to the electric actuators.
B60W 30/04 - Control of vehicle driving stability related to roll-over prevention
G01C 21/18 - Stabilised platforms, e.g. by gyroscope
B62D 11/00 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like
B62D 11/12 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like by differentially driving ground-engaging elements on opposite vehicle sides by means of a single main power source using gearings with differential power outputs on opposite sides, e.g. twin- differential or epicyclic gears using separate change-speed gearings
B60L 15/20 - Methods, circuits or devices for controlling the propulsion of electrically-propelled vehicles, e.g. their traction-motor speed, to achieve a desired performanceAdaptation of control equipment on electrically-propelled vehicles for remote actuation from a stationary place, from alternative parts of the vehicle or from alternative vehicles of the same vehicle train for control of the vehicle or its driving motor to achieve a desired performance, e.g. speed, torque, programmed variation of speed
A hydraulic pressure compensating pump assembly having a fluid flow regulation mechanism is provided. The fluid flow regulation mechanism is set to an initial stroked position that can be adjusted to accommodate various applications. The fluid flow regulation mechanism includes a biasing means that allows the pump to de-stroke in response to a pressure demand increase and to return to the initial pressure set point when pressure demand subsides sufficiently. Different spring types and spring rates can be specified to achieve a desired response to pressure demand fluctuations within a particular hydraulic circuit.
F04B 1/324 - Control of machines or pumps with rotary cylinder blocks by varying the relative positions of a swash plate and a cylinder block by changing the inclination of the swash plate
F01B 13/04 - Reciprocating-piston machines or engines with rotating cylinders in order to obtain the reciprocating-piston motion with more than one cylinder
F04B 1/20 - Multi-cylinder machines or pumps characterised by number or arrangement of cylinders having cylinder axes coaxial with, or parallel or inclined to, main shaft axis having rotary cylinder block
F01B 13/06 - Reciprocating-piston machines or engines with rotating cylinders in order to obtain the reciprocating-piston motion with more than one cylinder in star arrangement
F04B 1/12 - Multi-cylinder machines or pumps characterised by number or arrangement of cylinders having cylinder axes coaxial with, or parallel or inclined to, main shaft axis
An electric actuator for use with a variable drive apparatus is disclosed herein. The electric actuator has a rotary design incorporating a magnetic field sensor chip disposed on a circuit board to sense the rotational orientation of the magnetic field of a cylindrical diametric magnet positioned on the end of a control shaft of a hydrostatic drive unit. The circuit board includes a microprocessor, electric motor power control and CAN Bus communication capability. The gear housing of the electric actuator features an integral end cap to accommodate mounting of the electric motor to enable a compact design.
A reduction drive has an electric motor and an output hub rotatable with respect to a motor housing. A planetary gear reduction assembly is disposed entirely within an internal volume formed by the output hub and includes a first ring gear fixed to and rotating with the output hub, a second ring gear fixed to a portion of the main housing, a sun gear driven by the motor shaft, and gears mounted on a carrier assembly and driven by the sun gear. Each planet gear has a first stage gear driving the first ring gear, and a second stage gear engaged to the second ring gear.
F16H 1/46 - Systems consisting of a plurality of gear trains, each with orbital gears
F16D 55/225 - Brakes with substantially-radial braking surfaces pressed together in axial direction, e.g. disc brakes with axially-movable discs or pads pressed against axially-located rotating members by clamping an axially-located rotating disc between movable braking members, e.g. movable brake discs or brake pads with a common actuating member for the braking members the braking members being brake pads
F16D 65/18 - Actuating mechanisms for brakesMeans for initiating operation at a predetermined position arranged in or on the brake adapted for drawing members together
H02K 7/00 - Arrangements for handling mechanical energy structurally associated with dynamo-electric machines, e.g. structural association with mechanical driving motors or auxiliary dynamo-electric machines
H02K 7/102 - Structural association with clutches, brakes, gears, pulleys or mechanical starters with friction brakes
H02K 7/116 - Structural association with clutches, brakes, gears, pulleys or mechanical starters with gears
H02K 7/118 - Structural association with clutches, brakes, gears, pulleys or mechanical starters with starting devices
H02K 11/215 - Magnetic effect devices, e.g. Hall-effect or magneto-resistive elements
H02K 21/14 - Synchronous motors having permanent magnetsSynchronous generators having permanent magnets with stationary armatures and rotating magnets with magnets rotating within the armatures
A utility vehicle having operator selectable onboard and remote controls also includes a prime mover and a power generating device driven thereby, first and second electric wheel motors, and a drive controller in communication with the wheel motors to control the output thereof and in communication with the onboard controls. A radio control receiver is in communication with the drive controller and with a radio control transmitter having steering and speed controls. The vehicle includes a control mode switch having a first position where the drive controller receives steering and speed control inputs from the onboard controls, and a second position where the drive controller receives steering and speed control inputs from the radio control transmitter.
A01D 34/64 - MowersMowing apparatus of harvesters characterised by features relating to the type of cutting apparatus having rotating cutters having cutters rotating about a vertical axis mounted on a vehicle, e.g. a tractor, or drawn by an animal or a vehicle
B62D 11/04 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like by differentially driving ground-engaging elements on opposite vehicle sides by means of separate power sources
B62D 11/00 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like
B62D 1/00 - Steering controls, i.e. means for initiating a change of direction of the vehicle
A check valve for use with a hydraulic drive apparatus includes a check ball disposed in a cage portion for engaging a valve seat to close the valve. The cage portion has a plurality of flexible ribs composed of a flexible material which permits the check ball to be inserted into to ball retaining area during assembly and to be retained in the ball area after assembly. A filter housing connected to a mounting member has a pair of openings formed in a first surface, and a pair of deformable lips surrounding each opening. A filter screen permits hydraulic fluid to enter a filter housing from a sump. A pair of check valves are disposed in a pair of check valve ports. An external surface of each check valve is engaged to one of the deformable lips to sealingly engage the check valve to the filter housing.
A vehicle transmission housing has first and second axle housings pivotably connected to opposite ends of the transmission housing and a stand-on platform may be connected to the assembly. A first gear train in the first axle housing drives a first axle having a first axis of rotation. A second gear train is disposed in the second axle housing drives a second axle having a second axis of rotation collinear with the first axis of rotation. The axle housings are both capable of pivoting about the transmission housing about a third axis that is parallel to the first and second axes. The first and second axle housings may also be separately rigidly or flexibly connected to one another. This assembly permits adjustment of the ground heights of the platform with respect to a vehicle frame.
F16H 47/02 - Combinations of mechanical gearing with fluid clutches or fluid gearing the fluid gearing being of the volumetric type
F16H 39/14 - Rotary fluid gearing using pumps and motors of the volumetric type, i.e. passing a predetermined volume of fluid per revolution with liquid motor and pump combined in one unit pump and motor being of the same type each with one main shaft and provided with pistons reciprocating in cylinders with cylinders arranged around, and parallel or approximately parallel to, the main axis of the gearing with cylinders carried in rotary cylinder blocks or cylinder-bearing members
B60K 17/10 - Arrangement or mounting of transmissions in vehicles characterised by arrangement, location or kind of gearing of fluid gearing
B60K 17/04 - Arrangement or mounting of transmissions in vehicles characterised by arrangement, location or kind of gearing
B62D 11/12 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like by differentially driving ground-engaging elements on opposite vehicle sides by means of a single main power source using gearings with differential power outputs on opposite sides, e.g. twin- differential or epicyclic gears using separate change-speed gearings
