Methods and apparatus for powering a vehicle
US11117481B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 22, 2021 |
| Grant date | Sep 14, 2021 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 22, 2041 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02T90/14
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
This application is directed to an apparatus for providing electrical charge to a vehicle. The apparatus comprises a driven mass, a generator, a charger, a hardware controller, and a communication circuit. The driven mass rotates in response to a kinetic energy of the vehicle and is coupled to a shaft such that rotation of the driven mass causes the shaft to rotate. The driven mass exists in one of (1) an extended position and (2) a retracted position. The generator generates an electrical output based on a mechanical input coupled to the shaft such that rotation of the shaft causes the mechanical input to rotate. The charger is electrically coupled to the generator and: receives the electrical output, generates a charge output based on the electrical output, and conveys the charge output to the vehicle. The controller controls whether the driven mass is in the extended position or the retracted position in response to a signal received from the communication circuit.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.