Patent · US Expired

Power distribution control apparatus for four-wheel drive vehicle

US6711487B2 · kind B2 · utility

6Cited by
4References
18Claims
0Family size

Assignees

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateOct 31, 2002
Grant dateMar 23, 2004
Priority date
Expiry dateOct 31, 2022

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
  • CPC primaryY02T10/40
  • WIPO fieldMechanical elements
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

A four-wheel drive vehicle includes a coupling, which varies the distribution ratio of torque to the front wheels and the rear wheels. The distribution ratio of torque to the front wheels and the rear wheels is determined by the engaging force of the coupling. An ECU sets first to third determination threshold values for the opening degree of a throttle valve of an engine in accordance with the detected vehicle speed. The ECU determines whether the vehicle is in a steady driving state by comparing the detected throttle opening degree with the set first to third determination threshold values and controls the engaging force of the coupling in accordance with the determination result. Thus, the steady driving state of the vehicle is correctly determined.

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