Lubrication system
US6401870B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 29, 2001 |
| Grant date | Jun 11, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 29, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T74/2189
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
In one exemplary embodiment, the lubrication system includes a valve between the fluid conduit and the fluid pump, a sensor configured to generate a signal indicative of a viscosity of the fluid and an actuator coupled to the valve, wherein the actuator opens and closes the valve in response to the signal from the sensor.A method for lubricating and cooling an axle within a housing includes the steps of pumping fluid from a reservoir through a first passage having a first cross sectional area, through a second adjacent passage having a second smaller cross sectional area and through a third passage having a third cross sectional area greater than the second cross sectional area to the interior of the housing. The method also includes the step of providing a source of air to the fluid after the fluid exits the second passage. Air is drawn into the fluid to aerate the fluid. The aerated fluid expels fluid from the interior of the housing to the fluid reservoir. In one exemplary embodiment, the method additionally includes the steps of generating a signal indicative of a viscosity of the fluid and controlling flow of fluid through the first, second and third passages based upon the si…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.