Patent ID: 7658250
Filing Date: 2010-02-09
Classification: B60K,B60L,B60W,B60Y,E02F,Y02T

Abstract:
1. A system for storing and recovering energy associated with a machine having ground engaging tracks, the system comprising: a power source configured to supply mechanical energy for operation of the machine; an electric generator operably coupled to the power source, the electric generator being configured to convert at least a portion of the mechanical energy into electric energy; an electric motor operably coupled to the electric generator, the electric motor being configured to supply power to the ground engaging tracks; an energy storage device configured to store energy associated with the machine; and a controller configured to coordinate operation of the power source, the electric generator, the electric motor, and the energy storage device, wherein the controller is configured to divert a portion of the energy supplied by the power source to the energy storage device while the machine travels in a first direction, and recover energy stored in the energy storage device for use while the machine travels in a second direction.