초록 ▼

This invention is an improved modular engine having replaceable power modules wherein the improvement consists of automatically coupling and decoupling the power modules and the engine\s power output shaft in response to immediate operating requirements resulting in fuel savings. When a unit is deco

This invention is an improved modular engine having replaceable power modules wherein the improvement consists of automatically coupling and decoupling the power modules and the engine\s power output shaft in response to immediate operating requirements resulting in fuel savings. When a unit is decoupled, it is shut down and does not use fuel or add load to the engine. This feature saves fuel whenever operating requirements permit a reduction in power. The power units may be of several types known to the art. The power units are shown to have a gear which meshes with a gear part of the engine\s power output shaft to drive the shaft. A microprocessor is shown to control the dynamic coupling and decoupling between the unit\s gear and the power output shaft to keep the invention properly timed and fuel efficient. A flywheel is shown, in combination with the other parts, to store regenerated energy and release the energy to the power shaft upon demand. This feature of the invention provides an additional fuel savings.

대표청구항 ▼

An apparatus for transmitting drive to a driven shaft, the combination comprising: a first housing; the first housing rotatably supporting the driven shaft; the driven shaft comprising the crankless type; at least one power unit of the internal combustion type; the power unit including a casing, an

An apparatus for transmitting drive to a driven shaft, the combination comprising: a first housing; the first housing rotatably supporting the driven shaft; the driven shaft comprising the crankless type; at least one power unit of the internal combustion type; the power unit including a casing, an output drive means, power generated by the internal combustion, a timing means for synchronizing the internal combustion with the output drive means, a second means for transmitting the power from the internal combustion to the output drive means; a first connection means for operatively coupling the power unit to the first housing; a second connection means for transmitting drive between the output drive means and the driven shaft; a control unit; a first set of indicators presented to the control unit, the first set indicating a first variable condition of the combination; a second set of indicators presented to the control unit, the second set indicating a second variable condition of the combination; the control unit adapted to receive and process at least the first and second sets; the control unit further adapted to determine a result from the process; and the control unit further adapted to communicate with the power unit for controlling said second connection means whereby at least the second communication is effected dependent upon the result of the control unit.