A hybrid vehicle comprises an internal combustion engine, a traction motor, a starter motor, and a battery bank, all controlled by a microprocessor in accordance with the vehicle""s instantaneous torque demands so that the engine is run only under conditions of high efficiency, typically only when the load is at least equal to 30% of the engine""s maximum torque output. In some embodiments, a turbocharger may be provided, activated only when the load exceeds the engine""s maximum torque output for an extended period; a two-speed transmission may further be provided, to further broaden the vehicle""s load range. A hybrid brake system provides regenerative braking, with mechanical braking available in the event the battery bank is fully charged, in emergencies, or at rest; a control mechanism is provided to control the brake system to provide linear brake feel under varying circumstances.

This application relates to improvements in hybrid vehicles, that is, vehicles in which both an internal combustion engine and one or more electric motors are provided to supply torque to the driving wheels of the vehicle. More particularly, this invention relates to a hybrid electric vehicle that is fully competitive with presently conventional vehicles as regards performance, operating convenience, and cost, while achieving substantially improved fuel economy and reduced pollutant emissions.
For many years great attention has been given to the problem of reduction of fuel consumption of automobiles and other highway vehicles. concomitantly very substantial attention has been paid to reduction of pollutants emitted by automobiles and other vehicles. To a degree, efforts to solve these problems conflict with one another. For example, increased thermodynamic efficiency and thus reduced fuel consumption can be realized if an engine is operated at higher temperatures. Thus there has been substantial interest in engines built of ceramic materials withstanding higher combustion temperatures than those now in use. However, higher combustion temperatures in gasoline-fueled engines lead to increase in certain undesirable pollutants, typically NOx.
Another possibility for reducing emissions is to burn mixtures of gasoline and ethanol (xe2x80x9cgasoholxe2x80x9d), or straight ethanol. However, to date ethanol has not become economically competitive with gasoline, and consumers have not accepted ethanol to any great degree. Moreover, to make an alternate fuel such as ethanol available to the extent necessary to achieve appreciable improvements in nationwide air quality and fuel conservation would require immense costs for infrastructure improvements; not only the entire nation""s motor fuel production and delivery system, but also the vehicle manufacture, distribution, and repair system, would have to be extensively revised or substantially duplicated.
One proposal for reducing pollution in cities is to limit the use of vehicles powered by internal combustion engines and instead employ electric vehicles powered by rechargeable batteries. To date, all such xe2x80x9cstraight electricxe2x80x9d cars have had very limited range, typically no more than 150 miles, have insufficient power for acceleration and hill climbing except when the batteries are substantially fully charged, and require substantial time for battery recharging. Thus, while there are many circumstances in which the limited range and extended recharging time of the batteries would not be an inconvenience, such cars are not suitable for all the travel requirements of most individuals. Accordingly, an electric car would have to be an additional vehicle for most users, posing a substantial economic deterrent. Moreover, it will be appreciated that in the United States most electricity is generated in coal fired power plants, so that using electric vehicles merely moves the source of the pollution, but does not eliminate it. Furthermore, comparing the respective net costs per mile of driving, electric vehicles are not competitive with ethanol-fueled vehicles, much less with conventional gasoline-fueled vehicles. See, generally, Simanaitis, xe2x80x9cElectric Vehiclesxe2x80x9d, Road and Track, May 1992, pp. 126-136; Reynolds, xe2x80x9cAC Propulsion CRXxe2x80x9d, Road and Track, October 1992, pp. 126-129.
Brooks et al U.S. Pat. No. 5,492,192 shows such an electric vehicle; the invention appears to be directed to incorporation of antilock braking and traction control technologies into an otherwise conventional electric vehicle.
Much attention has also been paid over the years to development of electric vehicles including internal combustion engines powering generators, thus eliminating the defect of limited range exhibited by simple electric vehicles. The simplest such vehicles operate on the same general principle as diesel-electric locomotives used by most railroads. In such systems, an internal combustion engine drives a generator providing electric power to traction motors connected directly to the wheels of the vehicle. This system has the advantage that no variable gear ratio transmission is required between the engine and the wheels of the vehicle.
More particularly, an internal combustion engine produces zero torque at zero engine speed (RPM) and reaches its torque peak somewhere in the middle of its operating range. Accordingly, all vehicles driven directly by an internal combustion engine (other than certain single-speed vehicles using friction or centrifugal clutches, and not useful for normal driving) require a variable-ratio transmission between the engine and the wheels, so that the engine""s torque can be matched to the road speeds and loads encountered. Further, some sort of clutch must be provided so that the engine can be mechanically decoupled from the wheels, allowing the vehicle to stop while the engine is still running, and to allow some slippage of the engine with respect to the drive train while starting from a stop. It would not be practical to provide a diesel locomotive, for example, with a multiple speed transmission, or a clutch. Accordingly, the additional complexity of the generator and electric traction motors is accepted. Electric traction motors produce full torque at zero RPM and thus can be connected directly to the wheels; when it is desired that the train should accelerate, the diesel engine is simply throttled to increase the generator output and the train begins to move.
The same drive system may be employed in a smaller vehicle such as an automobile or truck, but has several distinct disadvantages in this application. In particular, and as discussed in detail below in connection with FIGS. 1 and 2, it is well known that a gasoline or other internal combustion engine is most efficient when producing near its maximum output torque. Typically, the number of diesel locomotives on a train is selected in accordance with the total tonnage to be moved and the grades to be overcome, so that all the locomotives can be operated at nearly full torque production. Moreover, such locomotives tend to be run at steady speeds for long periods of time. Reasonably efficient fuel use is thus achieved. However, such a direct drive vehicle would not achieve good fuel efficiency in typical automotive use, involving many short trips, frequent stops in traffic, extended low-speed operation and the like.
So-called xe2x80x9cseries hybridxe2x80x9d electric vehicles have been proposed for automotive use, wherein batteries are used as energy storage devices, so that an internal combustion engine provided to power a generator can be operated in its most fuel-efficient output power range while still allowing the electric traction motor(s) powering the vehicle to be operated as required. Thus the engine may be loaded by supplying torque to a generator charging the batteries while supplying electrical power to the traction motor(s) as required, so as to operate efficiently. This system overcomes the limitations of electric vehicles noted above with respect to limited range and long recharge times. Thus, as compared to a conventional vehicle, wherein the internal combustion engine delivers torque directly to the wheels, in a series hybrid electric vehicle, torque is delivered from the engine to the wheels via a serially connected generator used as a battery charger, the battery, and the traction motor. However, energy transfer between those components consumes at least approximately 25% of engine power. Further, such components add substantially to the cost and weight of the vehicle; in particular, an electric motor capable of providing sufficient torque to meet all expected demand, e.g., to allow reasonable performance under acceleration, during hill-climbing and the like, is rather heavy and expensive. Thus, series hybrid vehicles have not been immediately successful.
A more promising xe2x80x9cparallel hybridxe2x80x9d approach is shown in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,566,717 and 3,732,751 to Berman et al. In Berman et al an internal combustion engine and an electric motor are matched through a complex gear train so that both can provide torque directly to the wheels, the vehicle being operated in several different modes. Where the output of the internal combustion engine is more than necessary to drive the vehicle (xe2x80x9cfirst mode operationxe2x80x9d) the engine is run at constant speed and excess power is converted by a first motor/generator (xe2x80x9cspeederxe2x80x9d) to electrical energy for storage in a battery. In xe2x80x9csecond mode operationxe2x80x9d, the internal combustion engine drives the wheels directly, and is throttled. When more power is needed than the engine can provide, a second motor/generator or xe2x80x9ctorquerxe2x80x9d provides additional torque as needed.
Berman et al thus show two separate electric motor/generators separately powered by the internal combustion engine; the xe2x80x9cspeederxe2x80x9d charges the batteries, while the xe2x80x9ctorquerxe2x80x9d propels the vehicle forward in traffic. This arrangement is a source of additional complexity, cost and difficulty, as two separate modes of engine control are required. Moreover, the operator must control the transition between the several modes of operation. Such a complex vehicle is unsuited for the automotive market. Automobiles intended for mass production can be no more complicated to operate than conventional vehicles, and must be essentially xe2x80x9cfoolproofxe2x80x9d, that is, resistant to damage that might be caused by operator error. Further, the gear train shown by Berman et al appears to be quite complex and difficult to manufacture economically. Berman et al also indicate that one or even two variable-speed transmissions may be required; see, e.g., col. 3, lines 19-22 and 36-38 of U.S. Pat. No. 3,566,717, and col. 2, lines 53-55 of U.S. Pat. No. 3,732,751.
Lynch et al U.S. Pat. No. 4,165,795 also shows an early parallel hybrid drive. Lynch argues that maximum fuel efficiency can be realized when a relatively small internal combustion engine is provided, such that when the engine is operated at an efficient speed, it produces approximately the average power required over a typical mission. The example given is of an engine producing 25 hp maximum and 17 hp at its most efficient speed, about 2500 rpm. This is to be combined with an electric motor-generator of about 30 peak hp. This vehicle requires a variable-ratio transmission to achieve reasonable performance. It appears that the engine is to be run continuously, at a steady speed, with additional torque provided by the motor when needed and excess torque produced by the engine being used to charge the batteries. In a first embodiment, torque provided by the motor is transmitted to the drive wheels through the engine, while in a second embodiment their respective positions are reversed.
Nishida U.S. Pat. No. 5,117,931 shows a parallel hybrid vehicle where torque from an electric motor may be combined with torque from an internal combustion engine in a xe2x80x9ctorque transmission unitxe2x80x9d comprising paired bevel gears and means for controlling the relative rates of rotation of the motor and engine, so that the motor can be used to start the engine, absorb excess torque from the engine (by charging a battery), or provide additional propulsive torque. A variable-speed transmission is coupled between the torque transmission unit and the propelling wheels. Both the torque transmission unit and the variable-speed transmission are complex, heavy, and expensive components, the use of which would preferably be avoided.
Helling U.S. Pat. No. 3,923,115 also shows a hybrid vehicle having a torque transmission unit for combining torque from an electric motor and an internal combustion engine. However, in Helling the relative rates of rotation of the motor and engine input shafts are fixed; a flywheel is provided to store excess mechanical energy as well as a battery to store excess electrical energy. Albright, Jr. et al U.S. Pat. No. 4,588,040 shows another hybrid drive scheme using a flywheel in addition to batteries to store excess energy; various complicated mechanical connections are provided between the various components. Capacitors have also been proposed for energy storage; see Bates et al U.S. Pat. No. 5,318,142.
Fjxc3xa4llstrxc3x6m U.S. Pat. No. 5,120,282 shows a parallel hybrid drive train wherein torque from two electric motors is combined with torque produced by an internal combustion engine; the combination is performed by a complex arrangement of paired planetary gearsets, and unspecified control means are alleged to be able to allow variation of road speed without a variable-ratio transmission.
Hunt U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,405,029 and 4,470,476 also disclose parallel hybrids requiring complex gearing arrangements, including multiple speed transmissions. More specifically, the Hunt patents disclose several embodiments of parallel hybrid vehicles. Hunt indicates (see col. 4, lines 6-20 of the ""476 patent) that an electric motor may drive the vehicle at low speeds up to 20 mph, and an internal combustion engine used for speeds above 20 mph, while xe2x80x9cin certain speed ranges, such as from 15-30 mph, both power sources may be energized . . . Additionally, both power sources could be utilized under heavy load conditions.xe2x80x9d Hunt also indicates that xe2x80x9cthe vehicle could be provided with an automatic changeover device which automatically shifts from the electrical power source to the internal combustion power source, depending on the speed of the vehiclexe2x80x9d (col. 4, lines 12-16).
However, the Hunt vehicle does not meet the objects of the present invention, as discussed in detail below. Hunt""s vehicle in each embodiment requires a conventional manual or automatic transmission. See col. 2, lines 6-7. Moreover, the internal combustion engine is connected to the transfer case (wherein torque from the internal combustion engine and electric motor is combined) by a xe2x80x9cfluid coupling or torque converter of conventional constructionxe2x80x9d. Col. 2, lines 16-17. Such transmissions and fluid couplings or torque converters are very inefficient, are heavy, bulky, and costly, and are to be eliminated according to one object of the present invention, again as discussed in detail below.
Furthermore, the primary means of battery charging disclosed by Hunt involves a further undesirable complexity, namely a turbine driving the electric motor in generator configuration. The turbine is fueled by waste heat from the internal combustion engine. See col. 3, lines 10-60. Hunt""s internal combustion engine is also fitted with an alternator, for additional battery charging capability, adding yet further complexity. Thus it is clear that Hunt fails to teach a hybrid vehicle meeting the objects of the present inventionxe2x80x94that is, a hybrid vehicle competitive with conventional vehicles with respect to performance, cost and complexity, while achieving substantially improved fuel efficiency.
Kawakatsu U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,305,254 and 4,407,132 show a parallel hybrid involving a single internal combustion engine coupled to the drive wheels through a conventional variable-ratio transmission, an electric motor, and an alternator, to allow efficient use of the internal combustion engine. As in the Hunt disclosure, the engine is intended to be operated in a relatively efficient range of engine speeds; when it produces more torque than is needed to propel the vehicle, the excess is used to charge the batteries; where the engine provides insufficient torque, the motor is energized as well.
A further Kawakatsu U.S. Pat. No. 4,335,429, shows a hybrid vehicle, in this case comprising an internal combustion engine and two motor/generator units. A first larger motor/generator, powered by a battery, is used to provide additional torque when that provided by the engine is insufficient; the larger motor-generator also converts excess torque provided by the engine into electrical energy, to be stored by the battery, and is used in a regenerative braking mode. The second smaller motor/generator is similarly used to provide additional torque and additional regenerative braking as needed.
More particularly, the latter Kawakatsu patent asserts that a single electric motor sized to provide sufficient torque to propel the vehicle would not be capable of providing sufficient regenerative braking force; see col. 1, line 50-col. 2 line 8. Accordingly, Kawakatsu provides two separate motor/generators, as noted; a separate engine starting motor is also provided. See col. 6, lines 22-23. In the embodiment shown, the larger motor/generator is connected to the wheel drive shaft, while the engine and the smaller motor/generator are connected to the wheels through a complex mechanism comprising three separately-controllable clutches. See col. 5, lines 50-62.
Numerous patents disclose hybrid vehicle drives tending to fall into one or more of the categories discussed above. A number of patents disclose systems wherein an operator is required to select between electric and internal combustion operation; for example, an electric motor is provided for operation inside buildings where exhaust fumes would be dangerous, and an internal combustion engine provided for operation outdoors. It is also known to propose a hybrid vehicle comprising an electric motor for use at low speeds, and an internal combustion engine for use at higher speed. The art also suggests using both when maximum torque is required. In several cases the electric motor drives one set of wheels and the internal combustion engine drives a different set. See generally Shea (U.S. Pat. No. 4,180,138); Fields et al (U.S. Pat. No. 4,351,405); Kenyon (U.S. Pat. No. 4,438,342); Krohling (U.S. Pat. No. 4,593,779); and Ellers (U.S. Pat. No. 4,923,025).
Many of these patents show hybrid vehicle drives wherein a variable speed transmission is required, as do numerous additional references. A transmission as noted above is typically required where the internal combustion engine and/or the electric motor are not capable of supplying sufficient torque at low speeds. See Rosen (U.S. Pat. No. 3,791,473); Rosen (U.S. Pat. No. 4,269,280); Fiala (U.S. Pat. No. 4,400,997); and Wu et al (U.S. Pat. No. 4,697,660). Kinoshita (U.S. Pat. No. 3,970,163) shows a vehicle of this general type wherein a gas turbine engine is coupled to the road wheels through a three-speed transmission; an electric motor is provided to supply additional torque at low speeds.
For further examples of series hybrid vehicles generally as discussed above, see Bray (U.S. Pat. No. 4,095,664); Cummings (U.S. Pat. No. 4,148,192); Monaco et al (U.S. Pat. No. 4,306,156); Park (U.S. Pat. No. 4,313,080); McCarthy (U.S. Pat. No. 4,354,144); Heidemeyer (U.S. Pat. No. 4,533,011); Kawamura (U.S. Pat. No. 4,951,769); and Suzuki et al (U.S. Pat. No. 5,053,632). Various of these address specific problems arising in the manufacture or use of hybrid vehicles, or specific alleged design improvements. For example, Park addresses certain specifics of battery charging and discharge characteristics, while McCarthy shows a complex drive system involving an internal combustion engine driving two electric motors; the torque generated by the latter is combined in a complex differential providing continuously variable gear ratios. Heidemeyer shows connecting an internal combustion engine to an electric motor by a first friction clutch, and connecting the motor to a transmission by a second friction clutch.
Other patents of general relevance to this subject matter include Toy (U.S. Pat. No. 3,525,874), showing a series hybrid using a gas turbine as internal combustion engine; Yardney (U.S. Pat. No. 3,650,345), showing use of a compressed-air or similar mechanical starter for the internal combustion engine of a series hybrid, such that batteries of limited current capacity could be used; and Nakamura (U.S. Pat. No. 3,837,419), addressing improvements in thyristor battery-charging and motor drive circuitry. Somewhat further afield but of general interest are the disclosures of Deane (U.S. Pat. No. 3,874,472); Horwinski (U.S. Pat. No. 4,042,056); Yang (U.S. Pat. No. 4,562,894); Keedy (U.S. Pat. No. 4,611,466); and Lexen (U.S. Pat. No. 4,815,334); Mori (U.S. Pat. No. 3,623,568); Grady, Jr. (U.S. Pat. No. 3,454,122); Papst (U.S. Pat. No. 3,211,249); Nims et al (U.S. Pat. No. 2,666,492); and Matsukata (U.S. Pat. No. 3,502,165). Additional references showing parallel hybrid vehicle drive systems include Froelich (U.S. Pat. No. 1,824,014) and Reinbeck (U.S. Pat. No. 3,888,325).U.S. Pat. No. 4,578,955 to Medina shows a hybrid system wherein a gas turbine is used to drive a generator as needed to charge batteries. Of particular interest to certain aspects of the present invention is that Medina discloses that the battery pack should have a voltage in the range of 144, 168 or 216 volts and the generator should deliver current in the range of 400 to 500 amperes. Those of skill in the art will recognize that these high currents involve substantial resistance heating losses, and additionally require that all electrical connections be made by positive mechanical means such as bolts and nuts, or by welding. More specifically, for reasons of safety and in accordance with industry practice, currents in excess of about 50 amperes cannot be carried by the conventional plug-in connectors preferred for reasons of convenience and economy, but must be carried by much heavier, more expensive and less convenient fixed connectors (as used on conventional starter and battery cable connections). Accordingly, it would be desirable to operate the electric motor of a hybrid vehicle at lower currents.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,765,656 to Weaver also shows a series hybrid wherein a gas turbine is used as the internal combustion engine; hydrogen is the preferred fuel.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,439,989 to Yamakawa shows a system wherein two different internal combustion engines are provided, so that only one need be run when the load is low. This arrangement would be complex and expensive to manufacture.
Detailed discussion of various aspects of hybrid vehicle drives may be found in Kalberlah, xe2x80x9cElectric Hybrid Drive Systems for Passenger Cars and Taxisxe2x80x9d, SAE Paper No. 910247 (1991). Kalberlah first compares xe2x80x9cstraightxe2x80x9d electric, series hybrid, and parallel hybrid drive trains, and concludes that parallel hybrids are preferable, at least when intended for general use (that is, straight electric vehicles may be useful under certain narrow conditions of low-speed, limited range urban driving). Kalberlah then compares various forms of parallel hybrids, with respect to his FIG. 4, and concludes that the most practical arrangement is one in which an internal combustion engine drives a first pair of wheels, and an electric motor the second; more particularly, Kalberlah indicates that mechanical combination of the torque from an internal combustion engine and an electric motor is impractical.
Gardner U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,301,764 and 5,346,031 follow Kalberlah""s teachings, in that Gardner shows separately driving at least two pairs of wheels; one pair is driven by a first electric motor, and the second by a second electric motor or alternatively by a small internal combustion engine. Three different clutches are provided to allow various sources of drive torque to be connected to the wheels, and to a generator, depending on the vehicle""s operation mode. The internal combustion engine is run continuously, and provides the driving torque when the vehicle is in a cruise mode; at other times it is used to charge the batteries powering the electric motors.
Bullock, xe2x80x9cThe Technological Constraints of Mass, Volume, Dynamic Power Range and Energy Capacity on the Viability of Hybrid and Electric Vehiclesxe2x80x9d, SAE Paper No. 891659 (1989) provides a detailed theoretical analysis of electric vehicles in terms of the loads thereon, and a careful analysis of the various battery types then available. Bullock concludes that a vehicle having two electric motors of differing characteristics, driving the wheels through a variable-speed transmission, would be optimal for automotive use; see the discussion of FIG. 8. Bullock also suggests the use of an internal combustion engine to drive battery charging, but does not address combining the engine""s torque with that from the motors; see pp. 24-25.
Further related papers are collected in Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Technology, volume SP-915, published by SAE in February 1992. See also Wouk, xe2x80x9cHybrids: Then and Nowxe2x80x9d; Bates, xe2x80x9cOn the road with a Ford HEVxe2x80x9d, and King et al, xe2x80x9cTransit Bus takes the Hybrid Routexe2x80x9d, all in IEEE Spectrum, Vol. 32, 7, (July 1995).
Urban et al U.S. Pat. No. 5,667,029 shows two embodiments of parallel hybrids; a first embodiment is shown in FIGS. 1-9 and 11, and a second in FIGS. 12-17. Both embodiments have numerous common features, including similar operating modes. Referring to the first embodiment, an internal combustion engine provides torque to the road wheels or to a generator; two electric motors can provide torque to the road wheels, or charge batteries during regenerative braking. Torque from the engine and motors is combined at the input shaft to a variable-ratio transmission. Overrunning clutches are provided, e.g., to allow the engine""s torque to be applied to the road wheels without also rotating the motors.
As indicated at col. 6, lines 25-54, certain transitions between various operating modes are made automatically, responsive to the position of the accelerator pedal; for example, if the operator does not depress the pedal beyond a given point, only the internal combustion engine is employed to propel the vehicle; if the operator depresses the pedal more fully, the electric motors are also energized. Other changes in the operational mode must be made by the operator directly; for example, the vehicle may be operated as a xe2x80x9cstraight electricxe2x80x9d vehicle, e.g. for short duration trips, by the operator""s making an appropriate control action. See col. 7, lines 49-56.
The Urban et al design appears to suffer from a number of significant defects. First, the internal combustion engine is stated to provide all torque needed to accelerate the vehicle to cruising speed under normal circumstances (see col. 5, lines 3-10), and also to propel the vehicle during cruising (see col. 6, lines 48-54). The electric motors are to be used only during rapid acceleration and hill-climbing; col. 5, lines 10-13. A 20 horsepower engine, operated through a continuously variable-ratio transmission and a torque converter, is stated to be adequate for this purpose. Such components are clearly complex and expensive; further, torque converters are notoriously inefficient. Moreover, using the internal combustion engine as the sole source of power for low-speed running would require it to be run at low speeds, e.g., at traffic lights, which is very inefficient and highly polluting. (Various additional references suggest that excess torque can be used to charge batteries; if this were incorporated in the Urban system, the engine might be run at a reasonably efficient output level while the vehicle was stationary, but this would lead to high levels of noise and vibration. In any event Urban does not appear to consider this possibility.)
On the other hand, Urban does suggest that the vehicle can be operated as a xe2x80x9cstraight electricxe2x80x9d under low-speed conditions, but this requires the operator to provide an explicit control input; this complexity is unacceptable in a vehicle intended to be sold in quantity, as would be required in order to reach Urban""s stated goals of reduction of atmospheric pollution and reduced energy consumption. As noted, hybrid vehicle operation must be essentially xe2x80x9cfoolproofxe2x80x9d, or xe2x80x9ctransparentxe2x80x9d to the user, to have any chance of commercial success.
Urban""s second embodiment is mechanically simpler, employing but a single xe2x80x9cdynamotorxe2x80x9d, through which torque is transmitted from the engine to the variable-ratio transmission, but suffers from the same operational deficiencies.
A second Urban et al U.S. Pat. No. 5,704,440, is directed to the method of operation of the vehicle of the ""029 patent and suffers the same inadequacies.
Various articles describe several generations of Toyota Motor Company hybrid vehicles, believed to correspond to that available commercially as the xe2x80x9cPriusxe2x80x9d. See, for example, Yamaguchi, xe2x80x9cToyota readies gasoline/electric hybrid systemxe2x80x9d, Automotive Engineering, July 1997, pp. 55-58; Wilson, xe2x80x9cNot Electric, Not Gasoline, But Bothxe2x80x9d, Autoweek, Jun. 2, 1997, pp. 17-18; Bulgin, xe2x80x9cThe Future Works, Quietlyxe2x80x9d, Autoweek Feb. 23, 1998, pp. 12 and 13; and xe2x80x9cToyota Electric and Hybrid Vehiclesxe2x80x9d, a Toyota brochure. A more detailed discussion of the Toyota vehicle""s powertrain is found in Nagasaka et al, xe2x80x9cDevelopment of the Hybrid/Battery ECU for the Toyota Hybrid Systemxe2x80x9d, SAE paper 981122 (1998), pp. 19-27. According to the Wilson article, Toyota describes this vehicle as a xe2x80x9cseries-parallel hybridxe2x80x9d; regardless of the label applied, its powertrain appears to be similar to that of the Berman patents described above, that is, torque from either or both of an internal combustion engine and an electric motor are controllably combined in a xe2x80x9cpower-split mechanismxe2x80x9d and transmitted to the drive wheels through a planetary gearset providing the functionality of a variable-ratio transmission. See the Nagasaka article at pp. 19-20.
Furutani U.S. Pat. No. 5,495,906 describes a vehicle having an internal combustion engine driving a first set of wheels through a variable-ratio transmission and an electric motor driving a second set of wheels. The engine is apparently intended to be run continuously; at low speeds, it drives a generator to charge batteries providing energy to the motor, and at higher speeds the engine or both engine and motor propel the vehicle. In some circumstances the transmission may not be required; compare, for example, col. 3, lines 4-8 with col. 5, lines 59-64.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,842,534 to Frank shows a xe2x80x9ccharge depletionxe2x80x9d control method for hybrid vehicles; in this scheme, the internal combustion engine is essentially used only when the state of the batteries is such that the vehicle cannot otherwise reach a recharging point. See col. 3, lines 50-55. In normal operation, the batteries are recharged from an external power source. Frank also discusses two-mode brake pedal operation, wherein mechanical brakes are engaged in addition to regenerative braking when the pedal is depressed beyond a preset point.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,823,280 to Lateur et al shows a parallel hybrid wherein the shafts of an internal combustion engine and first and second electric motors are all coaxial; the engine is connected to the first motor by a clutch, and the first motor to the second by a planetary gearset, allowing the speeds of the motors to be varied so as to operate them in their most efficient range. See col. 4, line 57xe2x80x94col. 5, line 60.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,826,671 to Nakae et al shows a parallel hybrid wherein torque from an internal combustion engine is combined with that from a motor in a planetary gearset; a clutch is provided therebetween. The specific invention relates to sensing of engine warmup conditions, so as to limit emission of unburnt fuel and thus lower emissions.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,846,155 to Taniguchi et al shows a parallel hybrid wherein torque from an internal combustion engine and a motor is again combined in a planetary gearset; the specific improvement appears to be the use of a continuously-variable transmission.
It will be appreciated by those of skill in the art that there are significant limitations inherent in the use of planetary gearsets as a means for connecting different sources, e.g., an internal combustion engine and an electric motor, to the drive wheels of a vehicle, namely, that unless the planetary gearset is effectively locked (anathematic to its use as a continuously-variable transmission, e.g., in the Toyota vehicle) it is capable of additive combination of shaft speeds, but not of output torque. Hence, the principal advantage of the parallel hybrid drivetrain, additive combination of the output torque of both the electric motor and the internal combustion engine, is only available when the planetary gearset is locked. This fact is acknowledged by Lateur, for example, at col. 6, line 27.
Additional disclosures of possible interest include U.S. Pat. No. 5,845,731 to Buglione et al; this patent issued Dec. 8, 1998, and therefore is not necessarily available as a reference against the claims of the present application. The basic powertrain shown by Buglione et al includes an internal combustion engine 12, coupled through a first clutch 18 to a first electric motor 20, coupled to a second electric motor 26 through a second clutch 24; the wheels are (apparently; see col. 3, line 8) driven by the second motor 26. The overall hybrid operational scheme provided by Buglione et al is illustrated in FIG. 4. At low speeds one or both motors may be used to propel the vehicle, with the engine off, idling, or running to drive one motor as a generator. During low-speed cruising the second motor propels the vehicle, while during high-speed cruising, the engine propels the vehicle. When acceleration is required at high speed, the engine and both motors may be used to propel the vehicle. Buglione et al also indicates that a variable-ratio transmission may be unnecessary, col. 3, line 9, and that the first motor can be used to start the engine, col. 4, lines 8-15.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,586,613 to Ehsani, showing an xe2x80x9celectrically peaking hybridxe2x80x9d vehicle is also of interest. Ehsani""s vehicle is shown in several embodiments; in each, an engine is apparently to be run continuously, with excess torque used to charge the batteries, and one or more motors used to provide additional propulsive torque when the engine""s output torque is inadequate. A transmission is provided in some embodiments of the Ehsani vehicle. An embodiment involving two motors is shown in FIG. 7, and can be modified as discussed in the text at col. 9, lines 4-5. FIG. 7 itself shows driving a first set of wheels by a first xe2x80x9celectric machinexe2x80x9d, i.e., a motor capable of operation as a generator. This drive arrangement is independent of a second drive arrangement, whereby a second set of wheels is driven by an engine connected through a first clutch to a second electric machine, connected to the second set of wheels by a second clutch. Ehsani suggests at col. 9, lines 4-5 that the drive shaft otherwise coupled to the first electric machine could also be driven by the engine. Although it is not made explicit that the first electric machine is to be retained, this seems likely; otherwise, the modified FIG. 7 embodiment would be the same as Ehsani""s FIG. 1, modified to have all four wheels driven by a common driveshaft.
This application discloses a number of improvements over and enhancements to the hybrid vehicles disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,343,970 (the xe2x80x9c""970 patentxe2x80x9d), to one of the present inventors, which is incorporated herein by this reference. Where differences are not mentioned, it is to be understood that the specifics of the vehicle design shown in the ""970 patent are applicable to the vehicles shown herein as well. Discussion of the ""970 patent herein is not to be construed to limit the scope of its claims.
Generally speaking, the ""970 patent discloses hybrid vehicles wherein a controllable torque transfer unit is provided capable of transferring torque between an internal combustion engine, an electric motor, and the drive wheels of the vehicle. The direction of torque transfer is controlled by a microprocessor responsive to the mode of operation of the vehicle, to provide highly efficient operation over a wide variety of operating conditions, and while providing good performance. The flow of energyxe2x80x94either electrical energy stored in a substantial battery bank, or chemical energy stored as combustible fuelxe2x80x94is similarly controlled by the microprocessor.
For example, according to the operating scheme of the hybrid vehicle disclosed in the ""970 patent, in low-speed city driving, the electric motor provides all torque needed responsive to energy flowing from the battery. In high-speed highway driving, where the internal-combustion engine can be operated efficiently, it typically provides all torque; additional torque may be provided by the electric motor as needed for acceleration, hill-climbing, or passing. The electric motor is also used to start the internal-combustion engine, and can be operated as a generator by appropriate connection of its windings by a solid-state, microprocessor-controlled inverter. For example, when the state of charge of the battery bank is relatively depleted, e.g., after a lengthy period of battery-only operation in city traffic, the internal combustion engine is started and drives the motor at between 50 and 100% of its maximum torque output, for efficient charging of the battery bank. Similarly, during braking or hill descent, the kinetic energy of the vehicle can be turned into stored electrical energy by regenerative braking.
The hybrid drive train shown in the ""970 patent has many advantages with respect to the prior art which are retained by the present invention. For example, the electric drive motor is selected to be of relatively high power, specifically, equal to or greater than that of the internal combustion engine, and to have high torque output characteristics at low speeds; this allows the conventional multi-speed vehicle transmission to be eliminated. As compared to the prior art, the battery bank, motor/generator, and associated power circuitry are operated at relatively high voltage and relatively low current, reducing losses due to resistive heating and simplifying component selection and connection.
It can thus be seen that while the prior art, including the ""970 patent, clearly discloses the desirability of operating an internal combustion engine in its most efficient operating range, and that a battery may be provided to store energy to be supplied to an electric motor in order to even out the load on the internal combustion engine, there remains substantial room for improvement. In particular, it is desired to obtain the operational flexibility of a parallel hybrid system, while optimizing the system""s operational parameters and providing a substantially simplified parallel hybrid system as compared to those shown in the prior art, again as including the ""970 patent.
As noted above, the present application is a continuation-in-part of Ser. No. 09/264,817, filed Mar. 9, 1999 (the ""817 application), which discloses and claims several distinct improvements over the hybrid vehicles shown in the ""970 patent, as discussed in further detail below. Similarly, the present application is a continuation-in-part of Ser. No. 09/392,743, filed Sep. 9, 1999 (the ""743 application), which discloses and claims several distinct improvements over the hybrid vehicles shown in the ""970 patent and the ""817 application, as discussed in further detail below. The present application discloses and claims further improvements over the vehicles of the ""817 and ""743 applications.
As discussed in detail below, the ""817 and ""743 applications (which are not to be limited by this brief summary) disclose a new xe2x80x9ctopologyxe2x80x9d for a hybrid vehicle, wherein an internal combustion engine and a first electric xe2x80x9cstartingxe2x80x9d motor, which can be operated as a starter, to start the engine, a generator, to charge the battery bank responsive to torque from the engine or the wheels (i.e., during regenerative braking) or as a source of torque, to propel the vehicle, are connected to the road wheels of the vehicle through a clutch, so that the engine can be decoupled from the wheels during starting and battery charging, but can be connected to the wheels to propel the vehicle. A second xe2x80x9ctractionxe2x80x9d motor is directly connected to the road wheels to propel the vehicle. The vehicle operating mode is determined by a microprocessor responsive to the xe2x80x9croad loadxe2x80x9d, that is, the vehicle""s instantaneous torque demands. The ""743 application further discloses that a turbocharger may be provided, and operated when needed to increase the torque output of the engine when torque in excess of its normally-aspirated capacity is required for more than a minimum time. The present application builds further on these concepts.
Koide U.S. Pat. No. 5,934,395 and Schmidt-Brxc3xccken U.S. Pat. No. 6,059,059 were addressed during the prosecution of the ""817 application. Tsuzuki U.S. Pat. No. 6,018,198 and Werson U.S. Pat. No. 5,986,376 were also each applied against one claim. As indicated, the ""817 application discloses a hybrid vehicle comprising a controller, a battery bank, an internal combustion engine, and two electric motors, a starting motor and a traction motor. The starting motor and engine are connected to the road wheels through a clutch, while the traction motor is connected directly and permanently to the road wheels for torque transmission therebetween, i.e., without a clutch therebetween. Koide does not show this xe2x80x9ctopologyxe2x80x9d for a hybrid vehicle; although Koide does show a hybrid vehicle having first and second motors along with an engine, the components are not connected as described. Specifically, in Koide, both motors and the engine are connected to the road wheels by way of a variable-ratio transmission and a clutch, while, as noted, in the ""817 application only the combination of the engine and starting motor is connected to the wheels through a clutch, while the traction motor is connected directly to the wheels for torque transmission therebetween, that is, without a clutch or variable-ratio transmission. More specifically, Koide""s entire disclosure is premised on being able to vary the ratios between the torque-producing components of his system and the road wheels, in order that the engine can be smoothly started when needed. According to the ""817 application, only the starter motor and engine need to be disconnectible from the wheels for smooth starting, while the traction motor can be connected to the road wheels at all times.
This represents a substantial simplification with respect to the system shown by Koide.
The Schmidt-Brxc3xccken patent also fails to show the topology shown in the ""817 application. Schmidt-Brxc3xccken shows an engine 1 in combination with a starting motor 7, connected to the road wheels through a first clutch 11, and a traction motor 19 connected to the road wheels through a second clutch 23.
The ""817 and ""743 applications also disclose that the vehicle operating mode is determined by a microprocessor responsive to the xe2x80x9croad loadxe2x80x9d, that is, the vehicle""s instantaneous torque demands, i.e., that amount of torque required to propel the vehicle at a desired speed. The operator""s input, by way of the accelerator or brake pedals, or a xe2x80x9ccruise controlxe2x80x9d device, indicates that continuing at steady speed is desired, or that a change in vehicle speed is called for. For example, the operator""s depressing the accelerator pedal signifies an increase in desired speed, i.e., an increase in road load, while reducing the pressure on the accelerator or depressing the brake pedal signifies a desired reduction in vehicle speed, indicating that the torque being supplied is to be reduced or should be negative. More particularly, it is important to note that the road load can vary between wide limits, independent of vehicle speed, and can be positive or negative, i.e., when decelerating or descending a hill, in which case the negative road load (that is, torque available at the wheels in excess of that required to propel the vehicle) is usually employed to charge the battery bank.
More particularly, it is important to recognize that road load is not the same thing as vehicle velocity. Indeed, as noted, road load can be negative while vehicle velocity is positive, as during deceleration or descent. Moreover, widely differing road loads may be encountered during operation at the same velocity; for example, operation at 50 mph on a flat road may involve a road load of only 30-40% of the engine""s maximum output torque (MTO), while accelerating from the same speed while climbing a hill may involve a road load of well over 100% of MTO.
By the same token, control of the vehicle""s operating mode in response to monitoring of road load is not the same as controlling its operating mode in response to vehicle speed. Numerous prior art references, including the Koide and Schmidt-Brxc3xccken patents, teach the latter, i.e., indicate the vehicle operating mode should be controlled in response to vehicle speed. See Koide at col. 12, lines 45-48, and Schmidt-Brxc3xccken at col. 5, line 56xe2x80x94col. 6 line 29. Neither Koide nor Schmidt-Brxc3xccken, nor any other reference of which the inventors are aware, recognizes that the desired vehicle operational mode should preferably be controlled in response to the vehicle""s actual torque requirements, i.e., the road load. Doing so according to the invention provides superior performance, in terms of both vehicle response to operator commands and fuel efficiency, under the widely-varying conditions encountered in xe2x80x9creal worldxe2x80x9d driving situations, than is possible according to the prior art.
Moreover, as set forth the ""817 and ""743 applications, in order to provide maximum efficiency in use of fuel, it is essential to operate the internal combustion engine of a hybrid vehicle only under circumstances where the engine will be loaded so as to require at least 30% of its maximum torque output (xe2x80x9cMTOxe2x80x9d) (it being understood throughout this specification and the appended claims that this 30% figure is arbitrary and can be varied). If the vehicle is controlled to shift into an engine-only mode whenever it exceeds some arbitrary road speed, as in Koide and Schmidt-Brxc3xccken, it is apparent that the engine will be operated at various times when the road load is less than 30% of MTO, for example, during deceleration or during descents. Moreover, as noted above, the torque actually required can vary widely irrespective of vehicle speed. For example, 30% of MTO may be sufficient to maintain steady speed on a flat road, but 150% of MTO may be required for acceleration from the same speed. If the vehicle""s operational mode is selected based solely on speed, as taught by Koide and Schmidt-Brxc3xccken, it will be incapable of responding to the operator""s commands, and will ultimately be unsatisfactory.
By comparison, according to the invention of the ""817 and ""743 applications, and as further disclosed and claimed herein, the vehicle""s operating modexe2x80x94that is, the selection of the source of torque needed to propel the vehiclexe2x80x94is determined based on the amount of torque actually required. In this way the proper combination of engine, traction motor, and starting motor is always available. This apparently-simple point has evidently been missed entirely by the art.
Moreover, according to this aspect of the invention, the engine is used to propel the vehicle only when it is efficient to do so. This is in accordance with another aspect of the invention, wherein the engine is operated only at high efficiency, leading directly to improved fuel economy. For example, the engine is also used as needed to charge the battery bank, e.g., in low-speed city driving, where the battery bank may become depleted. The starter motor, which is operated as a generator in these circumstances, is accordingly sized so as be able to accept at least 30% of MTO as input torque; the battery bank is likewise sized so as to be able to accept a corresponding amount of charging current. Therefore the engine is never operated at less than 30% of MTO, and is thus never operated inefficiently. Koide and Schmidt-Brxc3xccken, because they teach switching the vehicle""s operational mode based on vehicle speed and not its torque requirements, would inherently operate the engine under less efficient conditions.
Furutani U.S. Pat. No. 5,495,906 discloses selection of operating mode based on a combination of vehicle speed and xe2x80x9cvehicle loadxe2x80x9d; see, e.g., col. 2, lines 39-47: xe2x80x9cIt is preferable that the running state detection means detects vehicle speed and vehicle load . . . [and] that the control means transfers the driving force generated by the engine to the power generator and changes the electric power generated by the power generator [i.e., more of the engine power is used to charge the batteries] in accordance with the vehicle load if the vehicle speed is the predetermined value or less. Moreover, it is preferable to change the predetermined value of the vehicle speed in accordance with the vehicle load.xe2x80x9d It thus appears that Furutani determines the vehicle operating state based on vehicle speed, although the change-over speed can be varied responsive to the vehicle load. Furutani""s xe2x80x9cvehicle loadxe2x80x9d thus apparently includes the torque required to charge the battery, as distinguished from applicants"" xe2x80x9croad loadxe2x80x9d, i.e., the torque required to propel the vehicle. Even assuming that Furutani""s xe2x80x9cvehicle loadxe2x80x9d, which is not defined, were suggestive of xe2x80x9croad loadxe2x80x9d as used by applicants, Furutani clearly does not suggest determining the operating mode based on road load. More specifically, although Furutani recognizes a distinction between differing vehicle loads, and that the vehicle load can vary independent of vehicle speed, the vehicle operating mode is nonetheless selected based on vehicle speed; see col. 3, line 62xe2x80x94col. 4, line 32. Instead of varying the operating mode of the vehicle based on road load, Furutani directs more or less of the engine""s torque to battery charging; see col. 4, lines 24-32.
Frank U.S. Pat. No. 6,054,844 shows several embodiments of hybrid vehicles. In those where an engine is used to provide torque to the vehicle wheels, a continuously-variable transmission is employed, and the ratio R is considered in determining the response to be made to operator input, e.g., accelerator and brake pedal positions. Frank""s control strategy is to operate the engine along a line of optimal efficiency and use an electric motor to add to or subtract from the engine""s output torque as appropriate. See col. 6, line 49xe2x80x94col. 7, line 7 and col. 10, line 33xe2x80x94col. 11, line 22. Frank thus does not suggest control of the vehicle operating mode responsive to road load.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,018,694 to Egami et al shows a controller for a hybrid vehicle comprising an internal combustion engine and first and second xe2x80x9crotary electric unitsxe2x80x9d. Although the question is not free from doubt, it appears from a detailed review of Egami""s disclosure that torque from the engine is not supplied directly to the road wheels, but instead is used to drive one of the rotary electric units as a generator, in turn supplying the second with current to provide torque for propelling the vehicle. Hence Egami does not show selection of the operational mode of the vehicle (that is, the determination whether propulsive torque is to be provided from the engine, one or both of the motors, or all three) in response to the road load, since it does not appear that propulsive torque is ever supplied from the engine to the wheels. Moreover, despite making reference to a xe2x80x9cvehicle driving torque demand Mv*xe2x80x9d, which might be misunderstood to be equivalent to applicant""s road load, Egami in fact does not determine the road load. More specifically, Mv* is determined by consulting a xe2x80x9cmapxe2x80x9d, using xe2x80x9cthe vehicle speed V, the accelerator lift ACC, the brake state BRK, and the shift position SFT as the input parametersxe2x80x9d. See col. 22, lines 23-26. The same point, i.e., that the xe2x80x9cvehicle driving torque demand Mv*xe2x80x9d is not equivalent to applicant""s claimed road load, is made throughout Egami""s extensive specification; see, for example, col. 10, lines 28-32 and col. 27, lines 58-65.
Deguchi U.S. Pat. No. 5,993,351 refers to decision-making regarding the vehicle mode of operation xe2x80x9cbased on the vehicle speed detected value and the required motive force detected valuexe2x80x9d (Abstract; see also col. 1, line 41); the latter might be misunderstood to be equivalent to the road load. Deguchi also states (col. 2, lines 7-9) that the vehicle xe2x80x9cruns on the motor at times of low load and runs on the internal combustion engine at times of high loadxe2x80x9d. However, Deguchi makes it clear that in fact the operational-mode decision is made xe2x80x9cbased on the accelerator aperture detected value xcex8 which represents the required driving force of the vehicle and the detected vehicle speedxe2x80x9d (col. 5, lines 19-21). The accelerator position and vehicle speed signals are the only relevant inputs to the vehicle controller shown in FIG. 2. Hence Deguchi does not show controlling the vehicle operating mode responsive to road load as defined by applicants.
Along generally similar lines, Boll U.S. Pat. No. 5,327,992 teaches a hybrid vehicle comprising a diesel engine and a motor on a common shaft, and intended to be operated such that the engine is only operated efficiently, i.e., under relatively high load. The torque required to overcome the xe2x80x9cinstantaneous tractive resistancexe2x80x9d is determined responsive to the deflection of the accelerator pedal, i.e., in response to operator command (see col. 3, line 13 and line 35); when this is less than the minimum amount of torque that can be produced efficently by the engine, the excess torque is used to power the motor as a generator. Boll also suggests that both the motor and engine can be used to propel the vehicle when needed, e.g., during acceleration, and that the vehicle can be operated in four different modes: (a) engine alone powering the vehicle; (b) motor only powering the vehicle, with the engine xe2x80x9cgenerally switched offxe2x80x9d; (c)engine and motor both powering the vehicle; and (d) engine powering vehicle, with excess torque powering motor in generator mode. Boll also teaches that a second motor can be provided, operable as a generator and then driven either by the engine directly or by exhaust gas, and that the resulting current can be used to charge the battery or to power the other motor.
Other references of interest are directed to the braking systems of hybrid vehicles, see for example German patent 19 05 641 to Strifler, discussing a method of control of a braking system providing both regenerative and mechanical braking, and the powering of ancillary systems, such as power steering pumps, see U.S. Pat. No. 5,249,637 to Heidl. These references are discussed in further detail below with reference to improvements provided in these areas by the present application.
It is an object of the invention to provide an improved hybrid electric vehicle realizing substantially increased fuel economy and reduced pollutant emissions as compared to present day internal combustion and hybrid vehicles while suffering no significant penalty in performance, operating convenience, cost, complexity, or weight, which can be operated efficiently by an operator accustomed to conventional vehicles without special training, and which does not require modification of the existing infrastructure developed over the years to support conventional vehicles.
More specifically, it is an object of the invention to provide such an improved vehicle that operates on fuel now widely available and uses batteries already well understood and widely available, so that the operator need not learn new driving techniques, deal with new fuel supply arrangements, nor be obliged to be attentive to maintenance of batteries employing complex new technologies.
It is a more particular object of the present invention to provide an improved series-parallel hybrid electric vehicle wherein an internal combustion engine and two separately-controlled electric motors can separately or simultaneously apply torque to the driving wheels of the vehicle, controlled to realize maximum fuel efficiency at no penalty in convenience, performance, or cost.
It is a further object of the invention to provide a series-parallel hybrid electric vehicle comprising two electric motors together providing output power equal to at least 100 percent of the rated output power of the internal combustion engine, and more preferably up to about 150-200 percent thereof, so that the engine operates under substantially optimum conditions in order to realize substantial fuel economy and reduced emission of undesirable pollutants in operation.
More particularly, it is an object of the invention to provide a series-parallel hybrid electric vehicle wherein the internal combustion engine is sized to efficiently provide the average power required for operation at moderate and highway speeds, with two )or more) separately-controlled electric motors together sized to deliver the additional power needed for acceleration and hill climbing.
Still another object of the invention is to provide a series-parallel hybrid electric vehicle wherein the electric motor and battery charging circuits operate at no more than about 30-50 amperes continuous current (although significantly greater currents may flow for short periods, under peak load conditions), whereby resistance heating losses are greatly reduced, and whereby inexpensive and simple electrical manufacturing and connection techniques can be employed.
It is a more specific object of the present invention to provide a hybrid drive system for vehicles that does not require the controllable torque-transfer unit shown in the ""970 patent, while providing the functional advantages of the hybrid vehicle shown in the ""970 patent.
It is a more specific object of the invention to employ the control flexibility provided by the improved hybrid drive train of the invention to allow starting of the engine at comparatively high RPM, while controlling the fuel/air mixture supplied during starting, throttling the engine, and providing a preheated catalytic converter, minimizing emission of unburned fuel and further improving fuel economy.
It is a more specific object of the invention to employ the control flexibility provided by the improved hybrid drive train of the invention to allow employment of a motor producing substantially constant torque up to a base speed, and substantially constant power thereafter, as the engine starting motor, so that torque produced thereby can also be used to propel the vehicle.
In addition to the above objects of the invention, which are similar to those listed in the ""817 and ""743 applications, the invention of the present continuation-in-part application has as objects the broadening of the useful ranges of loading of vehicles according to the invention, e.g., to provide highly efficient hybrid operation for a vehicle that may weigh 7,000 pounds empty but which can be loaded to weigh 10,000 pounds or more, and may be expected to pull a trailer also weighing 10,000 pounds or more.
A further object of the present invention is to provide further improvements in methods of control of internal combustion engines for hybrid vehicles, to obtain very efficient use of fuel.
Another object of the present invention is to provide an optimal HVAC system for hybrid vehicles.
Still a further object of the invention is to provide a braking system for hybrid vehicles including regenerative braking that provides optimal operator feedback despite changes in operation responsive to the state of charge of the battery bank.
Other aspects and objects of the invention will become clear as the discussion below proceeds.
As discussed above, the ""970 patent discloses hybrid vehicles wherein a controllable torque transfer unit is provided capable of transferring torque between an internal combustion engine, an electric motor, and the drive wheels of the vehicle. See FIGS. 3-11 thereof. The direction of torque transfer is controlled by a microprocessor responsive to the mode of operation of the vehicle, to provide highly efficient operation over a wide variety of operating conditions, and while providing good performance. The flow of energyxe2x80x94either electrical energy stored in a substantial battery bank, or chemical energy stored as combustible fuelxe2x80x94is similarly controlled by the microprocessor.
According to one aspect of the invention of the ""817 and ""743 applications, which is also employed according to the present continuation-in-part application, the controllable torque-transfer unit shown in the ""970 patent is eliminated by replacing the single electric motor shown therein by two separate motors, both operable as generators and as traction motors when appropriate. See FIGS. 3 and 4 hereof. As in the ""970 patent, an internal combustion engine is provided, sized to provide sufficient torque to be adequate for the range of cruising speeds desired, and is used for battery charging as needed. The internal combustion engine is connected to the drive wheels by a clutch operated by the microprocessor responsive to its selection of the vehicle""s mode of operation in response to evaluation of the road load, that is, the vehicle""s instantaneous torque demands and input commands provided by the operator of the vehicle. A relatively high-powered xe2x80x9ctractionxe2x80x9d motor is connected directly to the output shaft of the vehicle; the traction motor provides torque to propel the vehicle in low-speed situations, and provides additional torque when required, e.g., for acceleration, passing, or hill-climbing during high-speed driving.
According to the invention of the ""817 and ""743 applications, a relatively low-powered starting motor is also provided, and can be used to provide torque propelling the vehicle when needed. This second motor is connected directly to the internal combustion engine for starting the engine. Unlike a conventional starter motor, which rotates an internal combustion engine at low speed (e.g., 60-200 rpm) for starting, necessitating provision of a rich fuel/air mixture for starting, the starter motor according to the invention spins the engine at relatively high speeds, e.g., 300-600 rpm, for starting; this allows starting the engine with a much less fuel-rich fuel/air mixture than is conventional, significantly reducing undesirable emissions and improving fuel economy at start-up. A catalytic converter provided to catalytically combust unburnt fuel in the engine exhaust is preheated to an effective working temperature before starting the engine, further reducing emissions.
In the embodiment discussed in detail, the starting motor is connected directly to the engine, and this combination is connected to the traction motor by a clutch for transfer of torque; the output shaft of the traction motor is then connected to the road wheels of the vehicle. In other embodiments, the engine/starting motor combination may be connected to a first set of road wheels through a clutch, with the traction motor connected to another set of road wheels directly; in a further embodiment, plural traction motors may be provided. In each case, the engine is controllably disconnected from the road wheels by control of the clutch. Engagement of the clutch is controlled by the microprocessor, e.g., controlling an electrical or hydraulic actuator as part of controlling the state of operation of the vehicle in response to the road load.
For example, during low-speed operation, the clutch will be disengaged, so that the engine is disconnected from the wheels; the vehicle is then operated as a xe2x80x9cstraightxe2x80x9d electric car, i.e., power is drawn from the battery bank and supplied to the traction motor. Should the batteries become relatively depleted (e.g., become discharged to 50% of full charge), the starter motor is used to start the internal combustion engine, which then runs at relatively high torque output (e.g., at least about 30% of its maximum torque), for efficient use of fuel, and the starting motor is operated as a high-output generator to recharge the battery bank.
Similarly, when the operator calls for more power than available from the traction motor alone, e.g., in accelerating onto a highway, the starter motor starts the internal combustion engine; when it reaches an engine speed at which it produces useful torque, the clutch is engaged, so that the engine and starter motor can provide additional torque. As noted above, the engine is rotated at relatively high speed for starting, so that the engine rapidly reaches a useful speed.
As in the ""970 patent, the engine is sized so that it provides sufficient power to maintain the vehicle in a range of suitable highway cruising speeds, while being operated in a torque range providing good fuel efficiency; if additional power is then needed, e.g., for hill-climbing or passing, the traction and/or starter motors can be engaged as needed. Both motors can be operated as generators, e.g., to transform the vehicle""s kinetic energy into electrical power during descent or deceleration. Also as in the ""970 patent, the peak power of the two motors together at least equals the rated power of the engine, as is necessary to provide good performance without employment of a variable-speed transmission or the equivalent.
In each of these aspects of the operation of the vehicle, and as in the ""970 patent, the operator of the vehicle need not consider the hybrid nature of the vehicle during its operation, but simply provides control inputs by operation of the accelerator and brake pedals. The microprocessor determines the appropriate state of operation of the vehicle based on these and other inputs and controls the various components of the hybrid drive train accordingly.
It is also within the scope of the invention to operate one or both of the motors at differing rotational speeds than the engine, so that each can be optimized for the demands thereon. More specifically, motors can in general be made smaller if they can be operated at relatively high RPM. Motors operating at up to 9000-18,000 RPM appear appropriate for the present application. However, operating the internal combustion engine at this speed would likely lead to undesirable levels of noise and vibration, and might constrain its performance characteristics in an undesirable manner. Accordingly, for example, the starter motor might drive the engine through a pinion geared to a larger toothed flywheel, as conventional. Similarly, it might be desirable to provide the traction motor as a relatively high-speed unit, driving the road wheels through a chain, belt, or gear reduction unit. The starter motor may be configured as a xe2x80x9cfaceplatexe2x80x9d or xe2x80x9cpancakexe2x80x9d motor, essentially forming the flywheel of the engine, and rotating at engine speed, while the traction motor is a much higher speed induction motor connected to the vehicle driveshaft by a chain drive reduction unit. It is also within the scope of the invention, as noted above, to operate the engine and the two motors at the same speed when the clutch is engaged, avoiding intermediate gear trains or like mechanical components and the attendant cost, complexity, weight, audible noise, and frictional losses occasioned by their use.
Other improvements provided according to the invention include providing the batteries in two series-connected battery banks, with the vehicle chassis connected to the batteries at a central point, between the banks. This xe2x80x9ccenter-point-chassisxe2x80x9d connection reduces the voltage between various circuit components and the vehicle chassis by half, significantly reducing the electrical insulation required and simplifying such issues as heat-sinking of power semiconductors used in the inverter circuitry. Providing dual battery banks and dual electric motors, as above, also provides a degree of redundancy, permitting certain component failures without loss of vehicle function.
In the preferred embodiment, both the traction and starting motors are AC induction motors of four or more phases and the accompanying power circuitry provides current of more than three, preferably five, phases, allowing the vehicle to function even after failure of one or more components. These motors, and the inverter/chargers driving them, should be chosen and operated such that the motors have torque output characteristics varying as a function of rpm as illustrated in FIG. 14 of the ""970 patent; that is, the motors should produce substantially constant torque up to a base speed and should produce substantially constant power at higher speeds. The ratio of the base to maximum speed can vary between about 3 to 1 and about 6 to 1. By comparison, the series-wound DC motors conventionally used as engine starting motors provide very high torque, but only at very low speeds; their torque output drops precipitously at higher speeds. Such conventional starter motors would be unsatisfactory in the present system.
During substantially steady-state operation, e.g., during highway cruising, the control system operates the engine at varying torque output levels, responsive to the operator""s commands. The range of permissible engine torque output levels is constrained to the range in which the engine provides good fuel efficiency. Where the vehicle""s torque requirements exceed the engine""s maximum efficient torque output, e.g., during passing or hill-climbing, one or both of the electric motors are energized to provide additional torque; where the vehicle""s torque requirements are less than the minimum torque efficiently provided by the engine, e.g., during coasting, on downhills or during braking, the excess engine torque is used to charge the batteries. Regenerative charging may be performed simultaneously, as torque from the engine and the vehicle""s kinetic energy both drive either or both motors in generator mode. The rate of change of torque output by the engine may be controlled in accordance with the batteries"" state of charge.
The vehicle is operated in different modes, depending on its instantaneous torque requirements, and the state of charge of the battery, and other operating parameters. The mode of operation is selected by the microprocessor in response to a control strategy discussed in detail below; the values of the sensed parameters in response to which the operating mode is selected may vary depending on recent history, or upon analysis by the microprocessor of trips repeated daily, and may also exhibit hysteresis, so that the operating mode is not repetitively switched simply because one of the sensed parameters fluctuates around a defined setpoint.
None of the implementations of the invention shown in the ""970 patent or the ""817 and ""743 applications include a conventional multi-speed transmission between the motors and engine and the road wheels, and it was stated that a desirable aspect of the invention was to avoid such transmissions, so that the rotational speeds of the two motors and the engine were fixed with respect to one another, and to the speed of the road wheels. However, it now appears that in some circumstances a two-speed transmission may be desired in some cases to broaden the range of utility of the vehicles of the invention (principally to extend their load-carrying capabilities) while still providing highly efficient operation, and to include such a two-speed transmission is accordingly part of the invention of the present continuation-in-part application. Such a two-speed transmission could be operated infrequently as a two-speed xe2x80x9crange selectorxe2x80x9d, or could be operated essentially as a conventional automatic transmission, that is, be repetitively shifted during acceleration, upon xe2x80x9ckick-downxe2x80x9d and the like.
More specifically, it is of great present interest to optimize the hybrid power train of the invention for use with relatively heavy vehicles, such as vans, pickup trucks and xe2x80x9csport-utility vehiclesxe2x80x9d (SUVs). Such vehicles have become increasingly popular in recent years, despite their generally poor fuel mileage; it would be highly desirable to provide vehicles with generally similar load-carrying abilities and performance with better fuel economy. Still more particularly, heretofore large classes of such vehicles have not been subject to certain emission regulations; however, such regulations are expected to take effect shortly. Accordingly, it would be very desirable to provide such vehicles with hybrid power trains that will allow their owners to enjoy the load-carrying and performance abilities of the existing vehicles with improved fuel economy and reduced emissions.
One of the aspect of SUVs and similar vehicles that must be considered in design of a suitable hybrid powertrain is that their owners use them to carry and tow widely-varying loads. That is, a conventional SUV might weigh 5,500 pounds, and might typically be used during the week to transport a 140 pound person, up to 300 pounds of children, and 50 pounds of groceries. However, on the weekend the family might load the vehicle with half a ton of camping gear and the like and set off for the mountains towing a 7,500 pound trailer. The vehicle must provide adequate acceleration, passing, and hill-climbing performance in both uses. In order to have sufficient power at times of maximum loading, the vehicle is grossly overpowered under all different circumstances; that is, only when the vehicle is laden to near-maximum capacity and pulling up a long hill does the engine deliver near maximum torque for any length of time. Under all other circumstances, it is run very inefficiently, as noted in connection with FIGS. 1 and 2 (reproduced herein from the ""970 patent).
An important aspect of the invention as described by the present continuation-in-part application as well as the predecessor applications and the ""970 patent lies in controlling the operation of the internal combustion engine of a hybrid vehicle so that it is only operated at high efficiency, that is, only when is it loaded to require a substantial fraction e.g., 30% of its maximum torque output. That is, the engine is never run at less than 30% of maximum torque output (xe2x80x9cMTOxe2x80x9d). As discussed in the ""970 patent and the ""817 application, this can be accomplished by sizing the engine so that it can efficiently propel the vehicle unassisted at highway speeds; if additional torque is required for passing or hill-climbing, the traction motor is operated. Application Ser. No. 392,743 further adds the idea of providing a turbocharger, controlled by the microprocessor only to operate when torque in excess of the engine""s rated normally-aspirated maximum torque output (MTO) is needed for an extended period of time, for example in towing a trailer. By employing the turbocharger only when actually needed, many of the drawbacks inherent in conventional turbocharger uses are eliminated. Typically the turbocharger may be sized such that the engine provides up to 150% of MTO when turbocharged.
According to one aspect of the invention of the present continuation-in-part application, the range of efficient use of the hybrid vehicle of the invention is further broadened by providing a two-speed transmission between the engine and road wheels, so as to allow variation in the overall gear ratio and therefore vary the amount of torque available at the wheels. As noted above, this could be a manually- or automatically-operated xe2x80x9crange shiftingxe2x80x9d gearbox akin to those presently provided on SUVs and the like, to allow shifting into a xe2x80x9clow rangexe2x80x9d, for example, when a heavy trailer is be towed, or could be operated similarly to a conventional multispeed transmission, that is, to provide a sequence of effective overall gear ratios each time the vehicle is accelerated.
A further improvement made according to the present continuation-in-part application has to do with the braking system. As noted above, the ""970 patent (as well as numerous other prior art references) disclose regenerative braking, that is, employing the microprocessor to control the operation of inverter/chargers connected between the motor and battery bank so that when the operator desires to slow the vehicle, its momentum is used to drive the motor in generator mode, charging the battery. There are certain limitations on this as a method of vehicle braking, which must be addressed by any useful vehicle. In particular, a hydraulic braking system of generally conventional design must be provided for several reasons: first, for safety, in the event that the regenerative system fails for any reason; second, to provide braking in the event the battery bank is fully charged and cannot accept further charge (since overcharging is highly detrimental to battery life); and to provide braking when regenerative braking is not available, e.g., when at a standstill. The present application discloses certain improvements in hydraulic braking systems desired to optimize their design for use with hybrid vehicles, as well as a mechanism providing optimized brake xe2x80x9cfeelxe2x80x9d to the driver, regardless whether conventional, regenerative, or both braking systems are in use.
The present application also discloses certain problems inherent in application of conventional vehicles"" heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems to hybrid vehicles, and describes preferred solutions to these problems.
A further improvement according to the present invention includes the provision of an auxiliary 12 volt supply system, allowing the hybrid vehicle of the invention to xe2x80x9cjumpstartxe2x80x9d another vehicle, or likewise to be jumpstarted as might be necessary after a long hiatus, and to allow use of conventional 12 volt accessories, such as radios and other electronic items.
The present application also discloses further useful modifications and enhancements to the hybrid-vehicles of the predecessor applications.


A silicon carbide semiconductor device having excellent electrical characteristics including channel mobility and a method for manufacturing the same are provided. The method for manufacturing a silicon carbide semiconductor device includes: an epitaxial layer forming step of preparing a semiconductor film of silicon carbide; a gate insulating film forming step of forming an oxide film on a surface of the semiconductor film; a nitrogen annealing step of performing heat treatment on the semiconductor film on which the oxide film is formed, in a nitrogen-containing atmosphere; and a post heat treatment step of performing, after the nitrogen annealing step, post heat treatment on the semiconductor film on which the oxide film is formed, in an atmosphere containing an inert gas. The heat treatment temperature in the post heat treatment step is higher than that in the nitrogen annealing step and lower than a melting point of the oxide film.

Research and development of semiconductor devices in which silicon carbide is used as a semiconductor material instead of silicon is now being actively performed. Among the silicon carbide semiconductor devices, MOSFET is of particular interest (see for example Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2009-158933 (hereinafter referred to as PTL 1)). PTL 1 discloses that an epitaxial film made of silicon carbide is formed on a surface of a silicon carbide substrate, and an oxide film is thereafter formed on a surface of the epitaxial film. After this, an annealing process is performed in a nitrogen-containing atmosphere, and another annealing process is further performed using argon gas as an atmosphere. According to PTL 1, such processes can be performed to reduce the interface state density in a boundary region between the epitaxial film and the oxide film and consequently increase the carrier mobility in the epitaxial film.

Silicon carbide semiconductor device and method for manufacturing the same


A low pressure heat resistant decorative laminate material comprises a wood base member directly secured to a decorative plastic film by an adhesive having aluminum powder dispersed therein.

Decorative laminates have a wide range of applications and are generally easier to work with, more versatile and more economical than hardwood plywood and high pressure laminates. They are handsome, durable, machineable and inexpensive substitutes and can be used for furniture, kitchen cabinets, store fixtures, case goods, displays, desk tops and the like.
Two types of decorative laminates are available from Champion International Corporation under the trademarks Decolam/hpt and Vinylcote. These laminates are made of a wood or board substrate to which a decorative overlay which is preprinted with wood grain or solid colors is laminated. The resulting laminate may or may not have a smooth, clear, tough protective layer of an ultraviolet cured polymeric resin.
Hemming et al., U.S. Pat. No. 2,601,284, teach a laminate in which an adhesive is applied to a substrate (board), an aluminum sheet or foil is placed over the adhesive, a second layer of adhesive applied to the sheet or foil and then a wood veneer is placed on the second layer of adhesive. It has now been found that the general type of structure disclosed by Hemming et al can be advantageously modified by eliminating the aluminum sheet or foil and second glue layer and, instead, employing an adhesive which has an aluminum powder dispersed therein.
Accordingly, it is the object of this invention to provide a new and highly advantageous decorative and heat resistant laminate without resorting to the use of the metal foil or sheet therein. This and other objects of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description.


A portable multimedia device and a method of operating the same enables operation of a display device by direct manipulation of a bracket housing a display window of a portable communication device such as an MP3 player, a portable multimedia player, or a digital camera. The portable multimedia device includes: a display bracket housing the display window; a PCB bracket installed at a rear surface of the display bracket and is movable within a limited range in a thickness direction; a PCB fixed in the PCB bracket between the display bracket and the PCB bracket; and a plurality of tact switches installed around a periphery of the PCB capable of contacting the rear surface of the display bracket. Each of the tact switches controls one or more function of the portable multimedia device.

Recently, the performance of portable devices essential to modern living, such as an MP3 player and a mobile phone, has been remarkably improved due to development of audio and telecommunications technology.
For example, the MP3 player is a device that can be used for recording and reproducing MP3 files containing music or other audio data downloaded from the Internet or converted from other media. The MP3 player may include an earphone jack thereby enabling a user to listen to reproduced files through earphones.
In addition to reproducing MP3 data, the MP3 player may perform various other functions such as receiving FM radio for reproduction or recording, converting the output of an audio device into MP3 files, voice recording, dictionary applications, and games. The demand for more functions is continuously increasing.
In addition to its various functions, the MP3 player has numerous controllable parameters such as volume, MP3 file, beat parameters, equalizer parameters, and various menu parameters. A large display window is required to visually represent the various menus and settings and numerous switches are required enabling a user to control the functions and parameters.
As shown in FIG. 1, a conventional portable multimedia device 10 such as an MP3 player generally includes various switches 1 and 3 installed on its front and sides, and a display window 2 disposed on its front. Since the switches take up considerable space, it is difficult to increase the size of the display window 2 beyond a certain limit. In order to significantly increase the size of the display window 2, the entire device must be enlarged.
If the display window 2 is enlarged to span the entire surface of the device, the various switches 1 and 3 would then be installed on the sides thereby making operation inconvenient.
As an example of technology intended to solve this problem, a touch screen has been proposed. The touch screen is used in combination with a general soft display such as a cathode ray tube (CRT), a liquid crystal display (LCD), a plasma display panel (PDP), or an organic light emitting display (OLED), and is manufactured as a separate device mechanically engaged with a display screen.
FIG. 2 is a schematic side view of a conventional touch screen. The touch screen 20 includes a transparent substrate 12, which is generally formed of a rigid glass material but may alternatively be formed of a flexible material such as plastic. Various additional material layers for forming a contact detection device 14 of the touch screen 20 are formed on an upper surface of the substrate 12. The contact detection device 14 includes a converter and a circuitry required to detect physical contact in a manner that can be used to calculate a contact position. A cable 16 is connected to the circuitry so that various signals can be transmitted to and received from the touch screen 20. The cable 16 is connected to an external controller 18. The external controller 18 controls application of various signals of the touch screen 20 and calculates (x, y) coordinates where contact occurs on a contact part.
Conventional touch screen technology using the above basic structure may employ resistive, capacitive, ultrasonic, surface acoustic wave, or other contact detection techniques.
A resistive touch screen generates a voltage in proportion to a relative resistance of a circuit located at a contact point, and measures the voltage to calculate (x, y) coordinates of the contact point.
A capacitive touch screen uses current variations due to contact of a conductive material to calculate (x, y) coordinates of a contact point.
An ultrasonic method applies a theory in which a sound wave field is disturbed when an object contacts the touch screen and measures the disturbance to calculate (x, y) coordinates.
When the touch screen is adapted to a portable device such as a mobile phone or a remote controller, an input may be made by the press and touch of a stylus pen or by the touch of a user's fingertip. However, when the stylus pen is employed, more than a predetermined level of pressure should be applied, the touch screen is less durable, and it is troublesome for the user to carry the stylus pen in addition to the main body.
Examples of proposed solutions to the above problems are disclosed in Korean Patent Laid-open Publication No. 1999-75892 entitled "ELECTRONIC BOOK FOR DISPLAYING DATA DOWNLOADED FROM TELECOMMUNICATION NETWORK", and Korean Patent Laid-open Publication No. 2004-103562 entitled "KEY-PAD COMBINED WITH TOUCH SCREEN".
Korean Patent Laid-open Publication No. 1999-75892 discloses an electronic book for displaying content stored in a memory device, the electronic book includes: a liquid crystal display for displaying data stored in the electronic book; an input means such as a touch pen and a touch panel input device for inputting information and selecting from a menu displayed on a screen; a telecommunication network connection socket and a connection device for connecting to an external data telecommunication network; a computer connection socket and a computer telecommunication connection device for transmitting and receiving data stored in a computer; and keys for controlling various operations.
Korean Patent Laid-open Publication No. 2004-103562 discloses a key-pad combined with a touch input means integrally formed with or separately added to a display unit for displaying a key definition, the key-pad including: an upper layer having a predetermined number of keys to be pressed; and a lower layer having projections for transmitting pressure to the touch input means corresponding to each key of the upper layer, wherein the keys are disposed at key definition regions displayed on the display unit, the key definitions displayed on the display unit are formed in a visually recognizable manner, and the keys are spaced apart from the touch input means by a contactable gap.
However, as described above, the conventional art forces a user to use both hands to precisely input data when the user's fingertip contacts the screen. In particular, when a portable multimedia device employing a conventional touch screen is operated with one hand, it is easy to accidentally touch more than one key active region in an overlapping manner so that a precise contact value cannot be selected.
Also, it is troublesome for the user to have to look at the display window while operating the device to perform a desired function in a conventional portable multimedia device adopting the touch screen.

Portable multimedia device with display bracket switch and method of operating the same


A latch mechanism is shown which utilizes a pair of latch dogs pivotally mounted on a base member. Each of the dogs has a curved end region which is adapted to contact a curved work surface of an associated stop member. The dogs are pivotable between a release position in which the curved end regions are apart from the work surfaces to allow relative movement between the base member and stop member and an engaged position in which the curved end regions contact the work surfaces. A positive locking action is achieved by providing the dog end regions with a radius of curvature which matches the radius of curvature of the stop member work surfaces, but offsetting the center point of the radius of curvature of the dogs from the pivot points of the dogs. In this way, the end regions and work surfaces fully mate in the engaged position, but are pulled fully apart when moving to the release position.

1. Field of the Invention.
The present invention relates to a latch mechanism for releasably coupling two members to each other; more specifically, for coupling a battery case within a recess provided within a fender well of a vehicle.
2. Description of the Prior Art.
Various coupling or latching mechanisms are known in the prior art for releasably coupling two elements. U.S. Pat. No. 2,931,593, issued Apr. 5, 1960, to Pray, shows a bobbin holder which includes a latching mechanism contained within a cylindrical casing or barrel which is actuated by movement of the bobbin itself. U.S. Pat. No. 3,669,481, issued June 13, 1972, to Bergmann, shows a coupling or locking means for two parts which includes a stud belonging to one part, which stud can be inserted against a stop into a locking position in a recess formed in the other part. U.S. Pat. No. 2,533,377, issued Dec. 12, 1950, to Keef, shows a door latch including a pivotally mounted dog. The door may be latched in the closed position when brought into engagement with a cabinet, and may be released by touching the plunger or pressing or pulling against a cabinet member associated with the plunger. U.S. Pat. No. 3,921,334, issued Nov. 25, 1975, to Black, Sr., shows a window guard apparatus that is hingedly mounted to a wall adjacent a window, and which is adapted to prevent entry into the window from the exterior. The window guard mechanism includes a double hinge and an interior fastener.
Although the above references show various fastening and coupling mechanisms, there exists a need for a latch mechanism of simplified design which permits two parts to be reliably coupled together. The latch mechanism should also allow the parts to be released by a simple motion but should provide safe and reliable latching to prevent unauthorized opening. The latch mechanism should be adaptable to a variety of applications, including car doors, hoods, trunks, safety belts, overhead doors, patio doors, and the like.


The disclosure relates to a film cassette drive mechanism in a dental radiographic apparatus for photographing the entire jaws which apparatus is used in tomography. The drive mechanism is of such construction that a film cassette disposed at one end of a rotary arm of the apparatus in an opposed relation with respect to an X-ray source disposed at the other end thereof is moved to feed a film necessary for tomography by driving a variable speed motor inside the cassette holder in synchronism with the speed of travel of the X-ray source responsive to the rotation of the rotary arm.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates generally to a film cassette drive mechanism in a dental radiographic apparatus for photographing the entire jaws of the human body and more particularly to a type of dental radiographic apparatus in which the film cassette is of a flat form and can be moved linearly in the direction of rotation of a rotary arm.
2. Prior Art
A description will now be given, by way of example, of this type of radiographic apparatus heretofore in use and the film cassette drive mechanism used therein with reference to FIG. 1 in conjunction with the disadvantages inherent in the apparatus and mechanism.
In the figure, the numeral 1 designates a rotary arm which turns on its axis while describing a curved (for example, an elliptic) orbit approximate to the dental arch by a rotating shaft 23. The arm 1 has an X-ray source 16 and a film holder 13 immovably fixed respectively to one end thereof and to the other end thereof with the source and the holder placed in an opposed relation to each other. A platelike radiographic film cassette 14 is held in the film holder 13 and it is well known that a tomogram is made of the dental arch by the cassette 14 being moved linearly so as to be brought into synchronism with the travelling speed of the X-ray source 16 which follows the rotation on the arm 1. The drive mechanism of the cassette 14 shown in the figure includes a pulley 17 connected coaxially with the rotating shaft 23, a film holder 13 formed into a rectangular box shape having a linear distance sufficient to move the cassette 14 linearly continuously in one direction in the range of a certain speed during a period of time from beginning to start of radiographic photographing, pulleys 18 . . . for a change of direction disposed inside the holder 13, a film cassette 14 likewise disposed in the holder 13 so as to freely travel therein, and endless wires 19 wound on the pulley 17 and distributed in front and in rear in the direction of travel of the cassette by the pulleys 18 . . . for change of direction and connected to the front and rear end faces on the top of the cassette 14, and the drive mechanism functions in the manner that the cassette 14 is caused to continuously travel from one side to the other side of the film holder 13 in response to the rotation of the rotating shaft 17 and the X-ray beams is irradiated from the X-ray source 16 through a vertically long X-ray incidence slit 20 formed in the plate placed in an opposed relation to the holder 13. Incidentally, the numeral 21 designates a cover.
Referring now to the disadvantages inherent in the prior art, one of them is that the use of a pluarlity of sprockets 17, 18 . . . and wires 19 as a means for transferring the cassette 14 increases the number of parts required and makes the construction complicated in mechanism. Another of them is that since the cassette 14 is necessarily slidden into contact with the bottom plate 22 of the holder 13 while the cassette is travelling, such contact imparts a quivering movement to the film cassette, which produces adverse effects on photographing. Still another disadvantage is that, as described hereinbefore, the holder 13 must necessarily be increased in size by the fact that the holder 13 must have a linear distance necessary and sufficient to move the cassette into the holder 13 in the replacement of cassette 14.

Film cassette drive mechanism in dental radiographic apparatus for photographing entire jaws