Patent · US Expired

Drive and steer vehicle

US6484827B2 · kind B2 · utility

27Cited by
38References
34Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateJan 25, 2001
Grant dateNov 26, 2002
Priority date
Expiry dateJan 25, 2021

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
  • CPC primaryB62D11/183
  • WIPO fieldTransport
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

A vehicle such as a front engine tractor is adapted to utilize conventional steering and propel controls with a drive and steer type transmission. The transmission permits the vehicle to be driven and steered through its rear wheels, thereby permitting it to turn about one wheel and/or about an axis between its wheels. A substantial portion of the engine weight is carried on the vehicle frame forwardly of the transmission. Front castered wheels enable the vehicle to be easily steered by the drive wheels. A conventional type steering wheel is provided with a mechanical linkage extending between it and the transmission. Conventional type controls are also provided to propel or power the vehicle in a forward or rearward direction and within a range of speeds. With conventional type steering and propel controls adapted to be utilized with the drive and steer type transmission, operation of spin-turn vehicles is made simple and more efficient as well as reducing the time required to learn to operate and maneuver the vehicle.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.