Tag Archives: patent

Motorsport

Ferrari Wants to Build an Upside-Down, Hydrogen, Twin-Supercharged Inline-Six

Automaker generally patent a single farfetched know-how to guard an concept. But describing an unorthodox car system with a number of uncommon traits is way from the norm. That’s what Ferrari did with this recent patent application, which is excessive, to say the least.

The doc itself is titled “CAR PROVIDED WITH A HYDROGEN-POWERED INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE,” however it’s really solely one among a number of paperwork that describe various unorthodox programs for a possible sports activities automobile. All of the patents are purposes within the EU and US in the mean time. They all share a single credited inventor: Fabrizio Favaretto. According to his LinkedIn, Favaretto has been employed by Ferrari for twenty-four years, at the moment holding the title of “Vehicle and Powertrain Architectures Innovation Manager.”

The paperwork describe a hybrid sports activities automobile related in primary configuration to the Corvette E-Ray. Engine on the again, electrical motor up entrance. But that is the place the similarities finish. The precise electrical traction system on the entrance axle will not be described in nice element. At least, not within the paperwork I learn. The rear-mounted engine and transaxle are the centerpiece.

The combustion engine is, within the major embodiment, an inline-six fueled by hydrogen fuel. It’s an inline engine as a result of that configuration supplies room for hydrogen tanks on both aspect of it. The engine can also be mounted the other way up, i.e., the crankshaft is on the highest level of the engine whereas the cylinder head sits straight above the highway.

The logic behind that is that the transaxle can now be positioned greater up on the engine, which implies a extra aggressive diffuser might be put in in the back of the automobile. Some World War II fighter plane had upside-down engines like this, so it is not utterly exceptional.

The similar aggressive diffuser could be potential with out this uncommon association, however the car could be for much longer—and the doc insists a brief wheelbase is essential.

It’s all finest described by this picture:

unusual-ferrari-patent-inline-a

Figure 75 refers back to the floor of the car’s rear diffuser, whereas 69 describes the differential output shaft’s location.

The quirks do not finish there. The engine options compelled induction, that is for sure, however the patent describes a number of strategies wherein this compelled induction could also be achieved. In one embodiment, it consists of two centrifugal compressors mounted coaxially to both aspect of a single electrical motor.

The power to drive the compressors electrically could be generated beneath braking by the entrance drive unit, and though the phrase “battery” will not be talked about within the paperwork I learn, it should be assumed that one could be used to retailer this power.

Another embodiment places the 2 compressors in a unique association however nonetheless drives them with an electrical motor. Another describes an MGU-H kind system with an exhaust fuel turbine able to recovering electrical power to drive a number of compressors. The closing iteration, as I perceive it, ditches all method of electrical energy, as a substitute tapping energy from one of many dual-clutch transmission’s shafts to drive a number of mechanical superchargers straight. In this embodiment, there could also be a transmission between the DCT and the supercharger to allow variable speeds. Multiple varieties of potential transmission are described. I’m not kidding.

unusual ferrari patent inline E
unusual ferrari patent inline D

One would possibly fear in regards to the potential serviceability of an upside-down engine, however the patent addresses these issues. The oil and coolant pumps are all pushed from the camshafts, as an illustration, which locations them on the backside of the engine in straightforward attain of technicians. A portion of the diffuser can also be an engine cowl, and it may be eliminated to entry important elements.

Ferrari’s system is, briefly, a supercharged, hydrogen-combustion, inline-six, all-wheel-drive, hybrid sports activities automobile. Subject to vary primarily based on regardless of the mad scientists at Maranello assume works finest.

Another publication, Autoguide, coated this patent in a skeptical, arguably adverse method. In its personal phrases, the outlet described the know-how as “unholy,” and “sacrilege” for a model similar to Ferrari to think about. Entertainingly, Favaretto himself then appeared on Linkedin, the place the article was shared by an affiliate of his, to defend the concepts.

unusual-ferrari-patent-inline-f

The upside-down inline-six, as described within the doc.

“With the basic [physics] of hydrogen you must forget everything you know about how to design a car. Talk is cheap,” he says in a single remark. He then expands additional on the concepts specified by the patents, noting that Ferrari made an inline-six up to now primarily based on the Lampredi V-12.

The entire factor is a really attention-grabbing episode. Skepticism is suitable when discussing such radical concepts, naturally, however a smaller firm like Ferrari with entry to superior in-house manufacturing methods and really gifted engineers has each means to execute one thing like this.

The firm already makes a six-cylinder hybrid automobile. If something, going totally electrical could be extra sacrilegious. Innovating one’s means out of a world the place Ferraris—of all automobiles—fall silent is something however.

News

Future Ford Vehicles The Most Comfortable On The Road? A New Patent Filing Says Maybe!

Summary

  • Ford’s distinctive patent reveals a visionary pure lively suspension system and centerless wheel design for future autos.
  • The design’s versatility makes it a possible game-changer in private and public transportation, opening doorways to progressive car varieties.
  • Practical challenges could delay large-scale manufacturing, however Ford’s dedication to exploring cutting-edge expertise stays evident.

The editorial team at our sister site, Carbuzz, have stumbled upon a recently filled patent by Ford that tells of a novel, and futuristic, pure lively suspension system and centerless wheel design. The patent not solely particulars the way in which through which this design’s superior elements work in live performance, however how precisely they could possibly be utilized within the fashionable world. Though possibly years away from precise consideration, the patent reveals Ford’s dedication to exploring numerous avenues on the trail to automotive development.

An attention-grabbing space of the patent description mentions that conventional coil spring suspension and leaf spring could possibly be a viable inclusion within the design that might make the lively suspension with a centerless wheel extra versatile. This is large when it comes to future transportation, as this explicit design may doubtlessly change the face of non-public and public transit, with the varied embodiments of the unique design opening doorways to varied car varieties using the system.

Ford has given no particular timeline concerning the manufacturing of this futuristic thought, and should not for some time, as a few of the applied sciences employed within the design aren’t sensible when it comes to large-scale manufacturing. However, with the longer term coming quick, an increasing number of applied sciences make their method into mainstream purposes day by day. This offers many lovers hope that the centerless wheel, in addition to different sci-fi-esque automotive concepts, could quickly be actuality.

Ford Isn’t The First To Consider Centerless Wheels, But The Recent Patent Could Make Them The First Mass-Producer

The picture of a centerless wheel is straight out of a sci-fi movie, however the thought has been round for some time. While not typically discovered on automobiles or passenger autos, the centerless wheel can be observed on custom motorcycles and scooters all over the world. Though it needs to be talked about that these designs normally make use of a chain-and -sprocket or gear setup. This is the place the Ford patent begins to boost eyebrows.

The patent Ford Global Technologies LLC filed described a pure lively suspension meeting that employs an electrical motor and housing related to the within rim of the centerless wheel.

This electrical motor acts independently, making torque changes on the fly with a purpose to react to varied street situations, together with bumps and depressions (potholes). Located on all 4 wheels, every motor connects to a suspension arm by way of a motor shaft, which then connects to the chassis.

The suspension articulation is a key issue within the viability of this design, because the unbiased lively suspension is already a working idea. This patent hopes to advance present expertise by permitting an elevated vary of movement, extra reactive changes, and general higher efficiency and traction. An ingenious system of reactive torque exudes a way of Yin and Yang, because the give and take of the lively suspension in opposition to the torque changes ought to, theoretically, present seamless trip high quality.

The Complicated Inner Workings

We’ll attempt to hold this clarification as comprehensible as doable, however please be warned, it will get technical. The hubless wheel is definitely a centerless wheel. The hub is current, it is simply not situated on the heart of the wheel meeting as with conventional wheels, and it is not a conventional hub. This new electrical motor hub homes the wheel rim engagement elements which apply toque to the rim, which then rotates the wheels and strikes the car.

This motor hub is then related to a suspension setup by way of a motor shaft. As talked about earlier than, the suspension elements are up for debate, as coil spring, leaf spring, and helical spring are all viable choices relying on the autos objective and atmosphere. The instance that was expanded upon within the patent description was a cantilever-style suspension. In this mannequin, the electrical motor hub’s shaft connects to the “fixed” finish of the cantilever beam, whereas the other finish connects to the chassis of the car. Regardless of the suspension fashion employed, every naturally lively setup will function unbiased of the car physique.

The Cantilever Suspension Theory

While this will not appear to be probably the most comfy setup when in comparison with the coil spring and helical spring, the patent describes the method through which the cantilever suspension begins to make sense. It begins by describing “reactive torque”, which refers back to the particular person motors’ utilized power to the wheels when encountering uneven street situations, in addition to the suspension’s utilized torque to the cantilever’s assist place situated on the chassis. This system is designed to keep up a set distance between the bottom and the car chassis, which can also be known as the nominal assist place, or equilibrium.

Simply put, the suspension pushes again whereas the motor applies extra torque to whichever wheel encounters a street obstruction.

This setup incorporates a reactive system the place, if the wheel experiences any vertical displacement relative to the nominal assist place, the suspension will react by making use of torque to the motor’s shaft, which is able to return the car to its equilibrium. This motion will finally change the place of the wheel motor hub relative to the equilibrium, which is able to then power that particular person motor to use torque to the wheel rim engagement elements. Simply put, these two methods work to counteract one another’s displacement and hold the car leveled, offering easy trip high quality.

Could We See This Concept Employed On A Wider Scale?

2024 Ford Performance Mustang GT3
Ford Performance

The intricacies and pure math concerned in making this method profitable depends on managed testing. Real world implementation may end in difficult malfunctions and much more difficult options. So, as for seeing this new suspension and wheel setup on the following Mustang, do not wager on it. Though it is not out of the realm of creativeness to take a position {that a} completely different expertise or development may come from the pure lively suspension and centerless wheel design, because the suspension and electrical wheel motor setup could also be helpful exterior the patent parameters.

For instance, the patent states that the lively suspension design could possibly be employed in fashionable combustion autos in addition to hybrid and battery-electric autos.

These suspension setups, which may embrace a coil spring, leaf spring, or helical spring, may omit the centerless wheel idea in favor of a extra sensible use of the pure lively suspension. This would doubtlessly relocate the motor and wheel rim engagement elements, and remove the futuristic aesthetic. However, the suspension alone may show to be an development ready to come back to fruition.

Another software that involves thoughts is Ford’s track racing vehicles. As the principle fear behind the pure lively suspension design is the unpredictability of real-world street situations, a managed atmosphere can be the perfect playground to make use of this new superior system. Plus, components automobiles and high-performance motorsport autos would profit most from the added traction and efficiency offered by the suspension, presumably increasing the game and elevating security concurrently.

Concept Background

The patent begins by expressing the necessity for up to date suspension methods. It reminds readers that the unbiased suspension methods present in most fashionable automobiles have remained unchanged in general software since first employed. While unbiased suspension has undergone quite a few developments, the inventor of the pure lively suspension meeting patent, Larry Dean Elie, believes an entire overhaul is required to really usher within the subsequent evolution of automotive design, or not less than suspension design. Larry is assured that, if utilized successfully, this method will extract higher efficiency out of the car.

Ford’s Future Plans

White Ford RS200 Evolution
Bring-A-Trailer

While as regards to the Blue Oval’s current patent fillings, they recently filled the patent for their 1980s rally racer, the RS200. Insiders have thrown out hypothesis as to what this explicit patent filling may imply, with most arrows pointing to Ford simply defending a previous icon’s identify. However, some hypothesis posits that Ford could possibly be planning a revival or reintroduction indirectly form or kind.

A well-liked concept revolves across the RS200 identify being reintroduced as a trim degree on a present Ford mannequin, extra particularly, the Mustang Mach-E crossover. This concept gained traction on account of Ford design heads mentioning that Ford wished to deliver again names of the long-lasting previous names with new fashions. Another path some hypothesis has taken posits a brand new limited-production supercar based mostly across the previous RS200’s insane efficiency.

white Ford_RS200
Brian Snelson / flickr.com

While it might be reaching, these two patent fillings may make for a significantly intriguing mannequin, because the previous RS200 boasted excellent management and efficiency skill. The pure lively suspension and centerless wheel patent expresses the efficiency enhancements it may present. Would or not it’s inconceivable to take a position that Ford makes use of the pure lively suspension on a model new RS200? More than probably, sure.

In concept, the pure lively suspension design is a leap in the appropriate route. And it might be. However, the present automotive panorama is not ready for a leap of this distance on a big scale. As said earlier than, the intricate design and elements may make for a furry state of affairs if failure happens. This idea could also be just a few a long time forward of its time, although we’ll hold our eyes open for centerless wheels on new mannequin Fords.

Motorsport

Ford’s Retractable Bed Rails Patent Could Be Seriously Useful

Automakers like to patent weird gizmos on a regular basis only for the sake of defending outlandish concepts, however a latest Ford patent looks like a genuinely good accent. The Blue Oval thinks placing retractable rails into the truck’s mattress sides would make securing and loading cargo a lot simpler. 

The system works in a easy approach. Linear actuators able to lifting 1,320 kilos every can be mounted to heavy-duty rails, which sit in tracks on both facet of the mattress. With assist from a controller, they could possibly be lifted and raised at will. Stretch a web throughout the rails and decrease them over cumbersome cargo to safe it within the again. Ford takes it additional than that, although.


Motorsport

Subaru, Please Don’t Use Any Of These Names You Just Trademarked

Subaru has filed emblems for 12 new names with the US Patent and Trademark Office for “automobiles and structural parts and fittings therefor.” The phrases may very well be used for future off-road autos, trim ranges, packages—or simply so no one else tries to trademark them.

Many of them might match alongside or exchange Subaru’s “Wilderness” nameplate, which is presently used for the model’s most rugged fashions. But we will not get our heads round among the others:

  • Accomplice
  • Everguide
  • Everpass
  • Getaway
  • Highroad
  • Hightrail
  • Outsider
  • Trailhead
  • Trailseeker
  • Trailwind
  • Viewfinder
2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness First Drive Review
2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness Exterior

Loads of these names are fairly foolish; what’s an Everguide, anyway? Viewfinder has us nostalgic for that toy all of us had as youngsters and each Getaway and Accomplice sound an excessive amount of like blockbuster crime thrillers directed by Michael Bay.

Hightrail, Outsider, Trailhead, and Trailseeker are actually higher. Those names would not look that off-putting on the bottom of a Crosstrek or Outback—not less than, not any extra off-putting than the time period Wilderness. And they actually slot in with Subaru’s out of doors aesthetic.

But it is unclear precisely what the model would use these names for, or if any of them will really attain manufacturing. Automakers typically file emblems like this and by no means use any of the names talked about. But who is aware of, possibly within the subsequent decade you may be driving round in a BRZ Getaway or an Ascent Viewfinder.

News

Ford’s Latest Patent Fillings Reveal A GM Ultium-like Modular EV Platform

The automotive landscape is on the verge of a seismic shift, and Ford’s lately unveiled patent for a modular EV platform stands as a testomony to this transformative period. This ingenious design, likened to a Lego set for EVs, guarantees to interrupt free from the inflexible confines of conventional automobile manufacturing, ushering in an period of unprecedented versatility and flexibility.

Gone are the times of devoted platforms for every mannequin. Ford‘s imaginative and prescient reimagines the meeting line, changing it with a versatile framework able to birthing a various fleet of electrical autos, from modern sedans to rugged SUVs and past. This core tenet – modularity – lies on the coronary heart of the patent’s brilliance. Instead of sculpting bespoke platforms for every automobile, Ford envisions a standardized set of constructing blocks – interchangeable subframes, adjustable body rails, and a plug-and-play strategy to parts.

A gray 2024 Ford Mustang

Related

Ford’s ‘Drift Mode’ For EVs Revealed In Latest Patent Filings

Ford patents an revolutionary ‘drift mode,’ providing managed slides and redefining efficiency within the electrical automobiles period.

In order to provide the latest and correct info potential, the information used to compile this text was sourced from the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), Ford, GM and different dependable sources.

Ford Attempts To Rewrite The Rulebook

Ford has unveiled a daring imaginative and prescient for its future EVs via a lately revealed patent, showcasing a extremely modular platform that might revolutionize the way in which they’re constructed and supplied. This revolutionary design guarantees a big departure from conventional automobile manufacturing by emphasizing adaptability and flexibility.

The patent, filed in 2021 and published in January 2024, describes a modular EV platform constructed round three standardized subframes: a central one housing the battery and two others encompassing suspension, steering, and propulsion techniques on the entrance and rear. These subframes may be related with adjustable body rails and crossmembers, permitting for personalisation of the chassis size and accommodating various automobile varieties, from vehicles and SUVs to sports activities automobiles.

Key Features

  • Extreme Versatility: The platform’s modularity shines in its capacity to cater to a variety of car sizes and types. By merely swapping our bodies and adjusting the chassis size, Ford envisions creating every part from compact automobiles to full-size pickups.
  • Interchangeable Performance: The patent hints at efficiency packages with completely different motors, probably swappable due to common mounting {hardware}. This opens the door for customized driving experiences with out requiring in depth manufacturing changes.
  • Ground Clearance Flexibility: The entrance and rear subframes may be inverted, altering floor clearance to swimsuit particular automobile wants. This caters to the calls for of each off-road adventurers and modern sports activities automobile fanatics.
  • Production Efficiency: The modular strategy guarantees vital value financial savings by streamlining manufacturing and decreasing the necessity for devoted platforms for various fashions. Standardized elements and a simplified meeting course of might translate to elevated profitability and faster time-to-market.

Legos For EVs

2024 Kia EV9 E-GMP Platform
Kia Newsroom 

Imagine a Lego set, however one particularly designed for constructing electrical autos. Each piece, from the battery pack to the suspension, is standardized and interchangeable. This is the essence of a modular EV platform. Instead of crafting a bespoke platform for every new mannequin, automakers can combine and match pre-designed modules to create a various vary of EVs. Think sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, and even industrial autos – all constructed upon the identical adaptable basis.

Blue Ford Mustang EV Rendering

Related

TopSpeed’s Exclusive Rendering Reveals What The Ford Mustang EV Could Look Like

The iconic Ford Mustang is reimagined in a modern and aerodynamic silhouette that captures its essence whereas embracing the longer term.

Ford’s Modular EV Platform vs. GM’s Ultium

Ultium platform
General Motors

Both Ford and GM, titans of the American automotive business, are diving headfirst into the electric vehicle (EV) revolution. Each has its personal strategy to platform design, with Ford’s newly patented modular platform and GM’s established Ultium structure vying for dominance. While they share some similarities, key variations set them aside.

Modular Mastermind vs. Battery Backbone

GM's New Ultium Powertrain
Chevrolet

Ford’s modular platform leans closely on flexibility. Imagine a Lego set for automobiles, the place a central subframe with adjustable rails accommodates various automobile sizes. Front and rear subframes housing motors, suspension, and wheels may be bolted on, and our bodies merely positioned on high. This skateboard strategy permits for a variety of fashions, from sporty coupes to burly pickups, all sharing the identical core platform.

GM’s Ultium, alternatively, revolves across the battery pack. It serves because the structural spine, with modules stacked and built-in into the chassis. While providing scalability for various autos, Ultium focuses on optimizing battery packaging and efficiency.

Swapping Power And Performance

2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV
Chevrolet

Ford’s modularity extends past bodily dimensions. The patent hints at efficiency packages with swappable motors, probably providing consumers numerous energy ranges with out main manufacturing tweaks. This opens doorways for customized driving experiences throughout the identical automobile footprint.

Ultium, whereas not explicitly mentioning motor swapping, emphasizes environment friendly battery utilization. Its cell-to-pack design promises improved range and charging instances, prioritizing general EV efficiency over modularity in powertrain choices.

Production Puzzle

Both platforms supply potential value financial savings. Modular designs like Ford’s can streamline manufacturing by leveraging shared parts throughout various fashions. Ultium’s give attention to battery integration goals to optimize manufacturing processes and scale back complexity.

However, these advantages include challenges. Ford’s modularity would require vital upfront funding to adapt factories and provide chains. Ultium’s tight battery integration would possibly restrict flexibility in future platform iterations.

Chevrolet Equinox EV in red

Related

Everything We Know About GM’s Ultium Battery Technology

GM’s daring ambition to eclipse Tesla by 2025 is fueled by its ultra-flexible Ultium battery know-how. And it actually has the potential to take action.

Benefits Of Ford’s Patent Modular Platform

Ford modular chassis patent
USPTO

Ford’s newly patented modular platform for electrical autos (EVs) affords a spread of potential advantages, from elevated manufacturing flexibility and value financial savings to improved automobile customization and efficiency.

Reduced Production Costs

  • Standardized parts: By utilizing a standardized set of subframes and body rails, Ford can streamline manufacturing and scale back the necessity for specialised elements for every mannequin. This can result in vital value financial savings in manufacturing and stock administration.
  • Scalability: The modular platform may be simply tailored to completely different automobile sizes and kinds, from compact automobiles to SUVs and vehicles. This permits Ford to leverage the identical platform for a wider vary of autos, spreading improvement prices throughout a bigger product portfolio.
  • Flexible manufacturing: The modular design permits for better flexibility in manufacturing strains, as completely different physique types may be assembled on high of the identical primary chassis. This can allow Ford to regulate manufacturing volumes extra simply based mostly on market demand.

Enhanced Customization

  • Interchangeable efficiency packages: The patent means that motors and management gear could possibly be simply swapped due to common mounting {hardware}. This would enable Ford to supply consumers a wider vary of efficiency choices with out requiring vital adjustments to the platform itself.
  • Body swapping: The idea of a “skateboard” chassis with a separate physique probably permits physique swapping, permitting house owners to customise their autos or simply change between completely different physique types.

Other Benefits

  • Improved effectivity: The skateboard chassis design helps to optimize weight distribution and packaging, probably resulting in improved effectivity and vary for EVs.
  • Sustainability: The use of standardized parts and lowered materials waste contributes to a extra sustainable manufacturing course of.

It’s necessary to notice that Ford has not but confirmed whether or not it’ll put this modular platform into manufacturing. However, the potential advantages are vital, and it is doubtless that Ford will proceed to discover this idea because it develops its subsequent technology of EVs.

Mercedes-Benz F-Cell Hydrogen SUV

Related

Why Infusing Hydrogen Fuel Cell System Within An EV Skateboard Platform Is A Big Breakthrough

A proposed hydrogen gas cell system might revolutionize FCEVs simply as they’re taking off, and here is all it’s worthwhile to learn about it.

Challenges Ahead For Ford And It’s Modular Platform

Ford modular chassis patent
USPTO

While Ford’s patent for a extremely modular EV platform presents intriguing potentialities for manufacturing effectivity and automobile customization, a number of vital challenges lie forward earlier than it might develop into a actuality.

  • Upfront Investment: Implementing such a radical departure from conventional manufacturing would require an enormous upfront funding to adapt Ford’s factories and provide chain. Revamping manufacturing strains, coaching personnel, and probably growing new manufacturing processes can be a pricey endeavor.
  • Production Complexity: Despite its modularity, assembling autos from pre-fabricated subframes and our bodies could introduce new complexities. Coordinating the manufacturing and supply of those parts throughout completely different suppliers and making certain seamless integration on the meeting plant could possibly be a logistical problem.
  • Supplier Integration: Successfully implementing this platform hinges on shut collaboration with suppliers. They would want to adapt their manufacturing processes to Ford’s modular specs and probably develop new parts suitable with the platform’s flexibility.
  • Uncertain Market Acceptance: While modularity affords value financial savings and customization choices, it stays to be seen if shoppers would embrace autos constructed from interchangeable elements. Concerns about long-term sturdiness and potential high quality inconsistencies might deter consumers.
  • Patent vs. Production: It’s necessary to do not forget that submitting a patent does not assure its implementation in manufacturing autos. Automakers usually patent applied sciences they in the end do not use. Only time will inform if Ford commits to bringing this bold platform to market.

In conclusion, whereas Ford’s modular EV platform patent presents an revolutionary strategy with potential advantages, vital challenges have to be overcome earlier than it transitions from idea to actuality. The success of this platform will rely upon Ford’s capacity to handle these challenges and navigate the uncertainties of market acceptance and manufacturing feasibility.

News, Wearables

Apple Fails To Delay ITC Ban Of Apple Watch Series 9 And Ultra 2

An organization like Apple isn’t any stranger to patent regulation and aggressively protects its patents within the courts, so discovering itself on the opposite finish of that stick is considerably ironic. The ITC discovered the Apple Watch Series 9 and Ultra 2 to infringe on patents from Masimo, which produces medical know-how. The challenge is with the watches’ well being monitoring sensors, particularly people who detect blood oxygen saturation or SPO2.

As The Wall Street Journal reported, Apple met with Masimo founder Joe Kiani to debate implementing his firm’s know-how into wearable units just like the Apple Watch. But as an alternative of partnering with Masimo, Apple started to poach expertise, together with Masimo’s chief medical officer and high engineers. A patent filed in 2019 by a type of engineers bore a placing resemblance to certainly one of Masimo’s personal patents for cellular SPO2 sensors.

In January 2023, the ITC dominated that the SPO2 sensors utilized in Apple’s Watch Series 9 and Watch Ultra 2 infringed on Masimo’s patents. A commerce ban was issued in October after Apple countersued Masimo. While Apple had hoped to halt the ban whereas it labored on methods to distinguish the 2 infringing merchandise, at the moment’s denial of that movement means the watches will certainly halt gross sales for at the least a while.

Motorsport

Mitsubishi Had A Manual Trans With More Than Six Gears Way Before It Was Cool

Toyota is making waves with its current patent for a simulated manual transmission in electric vehicles with as much as 14 ratios. While this innovation is popping heads and is promising to ship engagement behind the wheel, it is value noting that Mitsubishi had a guide transmission with greater than six gears approach earlier than it turned cool. Enter the Super Shift transmission, developed by Mitsubishi within the late Nineteen Seventies, that includes an eight-speed guide with a 4×2 association.

The gearbox, also referred to as Twin-Stick, emerged as a guide transaxle transmission that was born from a normal four-speed designed for the first-generation Mitsubishi Mirage. However, the modern eight-speed gearbox featured a novel two-speed high-low selector. The transmission’s mounting beneath the engine necessitated a artistic method to energy switch, resulting in the incorporation of an extra “idle” shaft. This shaft developed right into a separate two-speed gearbox managed by a secondary shift lever alongside the principle gear shift lever contained in the cabin.

Mitsubishi Twin Stick transmission

The end result was a transmission with a traditional four-speed H-pattern shift mechanism, augmented by an extra two-speed high-low selector. This successfully doubled the variety of gears, offering drivers with a powerful eight ahead speeds. Remarkably, the Super Shift transmission additionally allowed for using the two-speed selector in reverse, resulting in the existence of two reverse gears. In most vehicles, the selector was labeled as Power for the decrease vary and Economy for the upper vary, with a dashboard gentle system indicating the chosen mode.

While the gearbox had eight gears, making the engine much more versatile, sensible use posed challenges. Sequentially using all eight ahead speeds required simultaneous motion of each gear levers – an intricate feat that proved practically inconceivable with out using each arms. Many homeowners opted for the comfort of the transmission’s low Power mode, often switching to the secondary selector to interact excessive Economy mode when in fourth gear.


News

Toyota’s "Hydrogen Sharing Network" Could Make Refuelling Your Hydrogen-powered Car A Whole Lot Easier

Thanks to a recent discovery of Toyota patent submissions, we have discovered concerning the model’s plan to create a “Hydrogen Sharing Network” for its clients driving hydrogen-powered EVs. Toyota Mirai drivers have raised points with this shortage due to the at present limited number of hydrogen refueling stations throughout the United States.

Unlike common electrical automotive charging stations, hydrogen energy is comparatively unknown and unused by automotive producers and drivers, apart from Toyota and its Mirai collection. Therefore, this latest patent submitting signifies a better want for at-home refueling choices for people with hydrogen-based automobiles, which may spark better market curiosity within the concept transferring into subsequent yr, decade, and so forth.

For these unfamiliar with the Toyota Mirai, that is the model’s first hydrogen-based EV mannequin and one of many first to be offered. The Mirai incorporates a high-power gas cell backed with a battery storing power. The tank’s capability is 5.0 kilograms (11 kilos), and the automobile travels as much as 402 miles per hydrogen fill-up. Therefore, Toyota hopes to ease its drivers’ minds between these refills with an at-home “Hydrogen Sharing Network.” This will develop far past Mirai and can seemingly be shifted towards further releases from the company.

Toyota HiAce Hydrogen

Related

Toyota’s Push For Hydrogen Tech Takes Shape In The Form Of The Commercial HiAce

Toyota’s hydrogen-powered HiAce prototype is a step within the path in the direction of sustainable business autos.

To provide the most recent and correct info attainable, the information used to compile this text was sourced from authoritative sources just like the USPTO, Toyota, and the Department of Energy, and official patent submitting paperwork.

Toyota Mirai Drivers May Soon Be Able To Refill Hydrogen At Home

  • Via a latest patent submitting, Toyota has plans to permit its hydrogen automobile house owners to refuel at residence versus at a station.
  • This could be the primary at-home hydrogen station for drivers of its form.

A little bit of thrilling information popping out of Toyota’s HQ lately has been the company filing for a patent for a new “Hydrogen Sharing Network,” which might permit for at-home hydrogen refueling by its drivers. What this implies for Mirai house owners is that by way of your smartphone, you might authenticate a hydrogen refill via an app and a house system powered by photo voltaic power.

Per the patent, Toyota house owners would additionally be capable of join their at-home hydrogen stations to both a water or pure fuel supply. This would permit for straightforward, no-hassle hydrogen refuels on a per-person foundation, fairly than having to search for the place the closest licensed station is relative to your private home/work/location. For many causes, this is able to be a fantastic incentive for somebody to maneuver toward a hydrogen vehicle over a traditional battery-powered model.

Your Shared Hydrogen Network Will Use A Natural Water Or Gas Source

Once your Toyota hydrogen station makes it to your private home, the plan could be to connect with a pure water or fuel supply, permitting it to create hydrogen fuel. As we mentioned, there would even be a photo voltaic element, which might help in creating and refueling a mannequin like Mirai.

Through this know-how, what as soon as would have been a sluggish technique of finding, driving to, and refueling at a licensed hydrogen station elsewhere could be as simple as strolling to the again of your private home, house, or place of business.

It’s additionally value mentioning that the photo voltaic panel in your Toyota at-home hydrogen station would use {the electrical} power from the photo voltaic panel or a distinct electrical supply for the gas cell equipment.

White BMW iX5 Hydrogen

Related

Why Buy A Hydrogen Car Over An EV

Hydrogen excels with fast refueling and prolonged vary, surpassing EVs in some ways regardless of among the challenges this gas imposes.

Making Hydrogen More Accessible Can Only Help Toyota

2023 Toyota Hilux Hydrogen prototype, under-hood view
Toyota
  • In 2023, there are solely 59 lively hydrogen refueling stations within the U.S.
  • There are plans to extend this quantity by 50 stations.

One of the present struggles for Toyota Mirai and the corporate’s hydrogen efforts has been the dearth of widespread information and entry to this know-how. First, it is value noting that thus far, there are only 59 active hydrogen fuel stations in the United States, with 50 on the best way.

Even then, we solely have 100-ish hydrogen stations amongst choose states within the nation, which isn’t close to sufficient to energy the variety of autos at present on the roads and future projections. Therefore, via this “Shared Hydrogen Network,” you’ll develop the hydrogen attain following an at-home technique alongside photo voltaic and smartphone tech. This alone would revolutionize the house and electric car market tremendously.

Most Hydrogen Stations Are In California

Something to concentrate on is that as a result of Mirai fashions are offered in California, and the state has pioneered this effort alongside main manufacturers like Toyota, nearly all of gas stations within the U.S. fall inside California’s borders.

Per the Department of Energy, there will likely be added hydrogen gas stations added to Hawaii (one) and 5 deliberate for the northeastern states. Even then, we cannot see a major public push for these nationwide for a few years. With Toyota shifting gears towards protected at-home hydrogen storage and refueling, Mirai customers could bypass this station shortage.

Red 2023 Toyota Mirai

Related

Why The Rise Of Hydrogen Vehicles Is Inevitable

Hydrogen can energy future electrical autos and, with a comparatively easy conversion can cut back emissions of our present inner combustion autos

Storing Hydrogen Safely In Your Home Would Be Groundbreaking

Toyota Mirai Motor
Toyota
  • Hydrogen is considered one of Earth’s lightest and easiest parts.
  • Storing hydrogen has been almost unimaginable at an at-home, wide-scale stage.

Because hydrogen is among the lightest and simplest elements on Earth, storage turns into almost unimaginable. One factor about hydrogen is that it has low volumetric power density; it will probably simply be misplaced within the ambiance when uncovered. This makes at-home refueling an uphill battle, particularly for the on a regular basis one that may not perceive the sensitivity of hydrogen to the world round us.

That mentioned, by way of Toyota’s Shared Hydrogen Network, we may see a solution to basically harvest, seize, and retailer hydrogen with out shedding it between refuels. These methods are underneath growth by Toyota and may come to fruition inside the subsequent few years. Of course, their last kind, value, and availability will likely be up for query in the intervening time.

Because Toyota’s spearheading hydrogen storage on the client stage, this requires in depth testing, product growth, and sources. Hydrogen is NOT simply maintained, and this Shared Hydrogen Network will take a few years to excellent. Hydrogen engines are the next wave of clean energy, with many manufacturers targeted on them.

White Toyota Crown FCEV

Related

Why The Crown FCEV Could Spearhead Toyota’s Hydrogen Ambitions

The Crown Z FCEV is Toyota’s newest brainchild in hydrogen tech and blends efficiency, effectivity, and luxurious impressively properly.

Through Hydrogen Sharing, Toyota Could Majorly Disrupt The Car Industry

Toyota HiAce Hydrogen
Toyota 
  • Toyota is set to advance its hydrogen fleet and gas choices.
  • We may see the model take a Supercharger-inspired path with its hydrogen stations.

Although this residence fueling system will likely be a problem to get to market, Toyota is spearheading the ever-daunting query of local weather change and the way manufacturing can be utilized to fight it. As of this patent submitting, it is clear that Toyota has plans to dramatically change how we see and use hydrogen at a client stage and retailer it safely at residence.

Moreover, Toyota’s tough drafts of this technique give us perception into what kind of individual may benefit from it and the difference of solar energy, pure water/fuel, and an authentication course of by way of smartphone. As stations start to pop up round California, Hawaii, and the East Coast of the United States, demand for these refueling stations and hydrogen models will continue to grow.

The most important query, nonetheless, is that if Toyota will focus solely on at-home gas sharing or if it may take this to the extent of what Tesla did with Supercharger Stations. The Mirai has made great strides and has been successful for Toyota at a small level.

A nationwide hydrogen harvesting and storage growth would open the gates for Toyota to do one thing a lot bigger. With plans within the hopper for brand spanking new autos utilizing gas cell know-how, Toyota has to make a “Shared Hydrogen Network” that each proprietor can use and luxuriate in long-term.

Motorsport

Here’s The New Renault 5 Before You’re Supposed To See It

Only final week Renault teased the production-ready 5 E-Tech, and now the whole automotive has leaked. Patent photographs printed by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) present the subcompact mannequin in its full retro-modern glory. This enticing EV will change the Zoe, and higher but, Renault’s efficiency division Alpine will use this as the idea for an electric hot hatch.

The Renault 5 E-Tech reveals off the cost indicator mild on the hood we noticed within the teaser, and there are two charging ports: One on the left entrance fender and one on the proper entrance fender. Even the wheel design has been largely carried over from the idea, though the alloys appear a smidge smaller.


Featured

Mahindra Global Pik Up One Step Closer To India Launch, Design Patent Filed

**Mahindra Global Pik Up One Step Closer To India Launch, Design Patent Filed**

The patent filed shows the same design for the Scorpio N-based pick up as seen on the concept showcased in August 2023. The Mahindra Global Pik Up concept made its global debut in August 2023. It is expected to be launched by 2026, with prices likely to start from Rs 25 lakh (ex-showroom).

The image from the patent application shows the same design elements, including the headlights and off-roading features, as the concept. It is expected to get an upgraded version of the Scorpio N’s 2.2-litre diesel powertrain with enhanced 4X4 capability.

At the big Mahindra event in South Africa in August 2023, we got to see two all new cars: the [Mahindra Global Pik Up](https://www.cardekho.com/mahindra/global-pik-up) and the Mahindra Thar.e (commonly referred to as Thar EV). Shortly after the carmaker patented the design of the electric Thar concept, it has now done the same for the [Mahindra Scorpio N](https://www.cardekho.com/mahindra/scorpio-n)-based pick up.

**What Does The Patent Application Show?**

The image in the patent filing shows the same model that was on display at Mahindra’s event in South Africa. It sports identical LED headlight clusters and LED DRLs, the newly designed grille, the high snorkel on the driver side, and a set of additional LED lights. It also has the same design for the alloy wheels, front-bumper-mounted winch, and side steps.

**Will Borrow Scorpio N’s Powertrain**

The Global Pik Up concept will be propelled by an upgraded variant of the same 2.2-litre diesel engine that powers the Scorpio N. Mahindra did not share any technical details about the pickup just yet, other than the fact that it will have a 4-wheel-drive (4WD) system for off-roading.

**India Launch And Price**

The Mahindra Global Pik Up’s launch timeline hasn’t been confirmed yet, but it could be introduced in our market by 2026. Its only rivals in our market will be the [Isuzu V-Cross](https://www.cardekho.com/isuzu/v-cross) and [Toyota Hilux](https://www.cardekho.com/toyota/hilux), with a starting price of around Rs 25 lakh (ex-showroom). If you’re hoping for a somewhat practical off-roader earlier than that, the [5-door Mahindra Thar](https://www.cardekho.com/mahindra/thar-5-door) is set to enter the market in 2024.