Eugene C Ward

US Patent:

40420540, Aug 16, 1977

Filed:

Dec 18, 1975

Appl. No.:

5/642133

Inventors:

Eugene T. Ward - Highland Heights OH

International Classification:

B60L 1118

US Classification:

180 60

Abstract:

In a light electrically powered vehicle, a battery pack of two to six batteries is supported on the rear axle independently of bending forces on the frame. The resultant (1) lighter frame requirement and (2) reduced battery requirement together have a synergistic weight-saving effect. The complete battery pack is light enough to be readily removable rearwardly by direct lifting on a manually operated handtruck and is readily replaced. The ready removability and replaceability of the pack frees the vehicle from battery charging shut-downs, and enables a fleet of vehicles such as golf carts to be kept fully in operation by provision of a battery recharging facility, extra battery packs and a few handtrucks. The vehicles of the fleet can be easily stored or shipped vertically for space-saving since the batteries can be readily removed. Further space-saving is effected by temporarily replacing the battery packs in the vertically stored vehicles, the packs being placed in their normal horizontal position.

US Patent:

40420558, Aug 16, 1977

Filed:

Dec 18, 1975

Appl. No.:

5/642135

Inventors:

Eugene T. Ward - Highland Heights OH

International Classification:

B60L 1118

US Classification:

180 60

Abstract:

An electrically driven vehicle, such as a local transportation vehicle, suburban runabout, light service vehicle or golf car, has a non-articulated frame with drive wheels associated with one end and a steerable wheel or wheels with the other end. Each of the drive wheels has its own permanent magnet direct current motor drive. The motors pass through a series-connected stage with unlimited differential action to a parallel-connected stage with limited differential action as the vehicle is brought up to speed from a stationary position. No mechanical differential is necessary and the vehicle may have a very low center of gravity and excellent center ground clearance. The drive system provides dynamic braking and energy restoration, with attendant control and energy saving advantages. This contributes to good traction and steerability under the varying operating conditions encountered. The weight of the batteries for the vehicle is sprung by the rear axle, so that the frame is relieved of carrying bending loads associated with the considerable proportion of total weight represented by the batteries.