Patent ID: 6823690
Filing Date: 2004-11-30
Classification: B60H,B60K,F02N,F04B

Abstract:
A system for use with an engine having a first drive shaft, comprising:a clutch mechanism; a drive belt for coupling the first drive shaft and the clutch mechanism; a second drive shaft coupled to the clutch mechanism, the clutch mechanism being adapted to controllably engage and release the second drive shaft thereby coupling and de-coupling the first and second drive shafts, respectively; an electrical generator/starter being coupled to the second drive shaft; a battery coupled to the electrical generator/starter; a compressor coupled to and integral with the electrical generator/starter and to the second drive shaft, for pressurizing a flow of coolant in response to rotation of the second drive shaft, the electrical generator/starter for generating electricity in response to rotation of the second drive shaft while in a first state and for utilizing electrical power from the battery to rotate the second drive shaft while in the second state; and, a controller coupled to the electrical generator/starter, the compressor and the clutch mechanism, for controlling operation thereof in accordance of a plurality of modes of operation and for detecting a predetermined condition indicating insufficient engine power to drive the compressor and to responsively enter a third mode, the predetermined condition being one of an idle condition of the engine, a low speed condition of the engine, or a desired cabin cooling condition.