Abstract:
A wheel module (2) in accordance with the invention includes a wheel (4). A tire (5) is shown fixe to the rim of the wheel (4). A stationary brake caliper (6) is shown fixed to a stationary motor housing (26). In this embodiment, the motor housing (26) is non-rotating structural unit. The brake caliper (6) is operable connectable to a brake disc (8). The brake caliper (6) and brake disc (8) together comprise a brake system (9). The brake caliper (8) is operatively conneted to hub (10). The hub (10) is affixed to the wheel (4) by use of a bolt (11). A rotor unit (12) including rotor discs (14, 16) is rigidly mounted to the hub (10). A stator (18) is shown operatively connected to the motor housing (26).
Abstract:
A vehicle braking system has two driver-operable input devices. The vehicle braking system is sufficiently configured such that one of the driver-operable input devices is effective in causing resistance to the rotation of at least one wheel only when a predetermined condition exists, and the other driver-operable input device is effective independent of the predetermined condition.
Abstract:
A vehicle chassis (10) having substantially all of the mechanical, electrical, and structural componentry necessary for a fully functional vehicle, including at least an energy conversion system (67), a steering system (81), and a braking system (83). The chassis (10) is configured for releasable engagement with a variety of different types or styles of vehicle bodies (85, 85', 85''). Various prior art mechanical control linkages between a driver and controlled systems are replaced with non-mechanical control signal transmission components. Fuel cell technology (125) is also implemented.
Abstract:
A vehicle chassis includes a frame defining a cavity, and a tank configured to store compressed hydrogen gas. The tank is at least partially located within the cavity, and is longitudinally oriented with respect to the frame to maximize the fuel-storage capability of the vehicle chassis. In an exemplary embodiment, a floorpan includes a concavity to accommodate at least a portion of the tank, with a corresponding protuberance in the passenger compartment floor surface of the vehicle chassis.
Abstract:
A vehicle chassis (10) having substantially all of the mechanical, electrical, and structural componentry necessary for a fully functional vehicle, including at least an energy conversion system (67), a steering system (81), and a braking system (83). The chassis (10) is configured for matability with a variety of different types or styles of vehicle bodies. Various prior art mechanical control linkages between a driver and controlled systems are replaced with non-mechanical control signal transmission components. Fuel cell technology (125) is also implemented.
Abstract:
A chassis having systems responsive to a nonmechanical control signals and a simplified body-attachment interface includes pressembled modules to enhance ease and simplicity of chassis assembly.The chassis preferably configured to minimize the possibility of a preassembled module being incorrectly positioned within the chassis. Methods for advantageously employing preassembled modules to assemble vehicle chassis are also provided.
Abstract:
A method is provided for modifying the functionality and aesthetic characteristics of a vehicle. The method includes removing a first body from a vehicle chassis, wherein the first body and vehicle chassis form a first type of vehicle. A second body is then attached to the vehicle chassis without subjecting the second body to significant value-added manufacturing processes. The second body and vehicle chassis form a second type of vehicle different from the first type of vehicle and having different functionality and aesthetic characteristics. The bodies and chassis comply with a standardized body/chassis interface system which enables such interchangeability of bodies on a single chassis, or on a family of chassis.