Apparatus for controlling a steering-by-driving system
US4914592A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 3, 1987 |
| Grant date | Apr 3, 1990 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 3, 2007 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB62D11/005
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus is disclosed for controlling at least two driven wheels of a vehicle. The apparatus includes two hydraulic motors, each motor drivably connected to an associated drive wheel. A load sense piston pump provides a source of pressurized fluid for operating the hydraulic motors. Associated with each hydraulic motor is an electrically controllable load sense flow control valve assembly, an electrically controllable directional control valve, and a set of counterbalance valves. A microcomputer controls operation of the electrically controllable load sense flow control valve assemblies and the electrically controllable directional control valves in response to electrical signals indicative of rotary position of a steering wheel, position of an operator controlled speed and direction input device, and the speed of the vehicle engine. Steering ratio can be selected by the operator. Vehicle speed is controlled so as to prevent pump cavitation and engine stalling.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.