Vehicle with noncontact drive mechanism and transportation system using the same
US5263419A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 7, 1991 |
| Grant date | Nov 23, 1993 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 7, 2011 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02T10/64
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A vehicle with a noncontact drive mechanism includes a magnetic propelling device 7 for generating a propelling force derived from magnetic induction of an eddy current within a reaction plate 4 laid on a road surface, without contact between the magnetic propelling device and the reaction plate; a flux changing device 13 for changing magnetic flux of the magnetic propelling device; a chassis supporting device for holding a chassis with respect to the road surface; and running-direction control devices 3, 5 for controlling the direction of running of the vehicle. The vehicle is adapted to run by generating a magnetic force in noncontact with the reaction plate. The vehicle further includes a plurality of wheels 2 for supporting the chassis on the road surface and a wheel drive device for driving at least one of the wheels, so as to permit running by making use of magnetic propelling force in noncontact with the reaction plate and by making use of a frictional force through friction between the road surface and the wheels. The vehicle is capable of running on any road surface so as to enhance the degree of its freedom, and is capable of reducing tire wear. Also disclosed is a transp…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.