Caterpillar Inc.

Jerry F Smith

Alan D Young

David S Suckow

An automatic control for operating an engine retarder, service brakes, and an automatic transmission associated with earth moving equipment is provided. The automatic control monitors engine speed and responsively produces control signals to maintain engine speed within predetermined limits.

Automatic engine retarder and transmission control in off highway earth moving equipment

An articulated work machine includes an engine mounted in front of a load carrying receptacle on a trailer. The articulated work machine includes a cab assembly which has a front axle assembly on which number of front wheels are mounted, and a seat for supporting an operator of the work machine. The articulated work machine further includes a trailer assembly having a rear axle assembly on which a number of rear wheels are mounted. The articulated work machine still further includes a receptacle adapted to receive and carry loads. The receptacle is supported on the trailer assembly. The articulated work machine yet further includes a coupling which pivotally connects the cab assembly to the trailer assembly. The articulated work machine still further includes an engine assembly for propelling the work machine. The engine assembly is mounted on the trailer assembly. The assembly is interposed between the receptacle and the number of front wheels.

Articulated work machine having an engine mounted in front of a load

A differential lock control system for controlling the locking of the various differential assemblies associated with a particular work machine wherein such system includes a first switch positionable to select any one or more of the differential assemblies for operation in their locked condition, a second switch actuatable to control the locking of the differential assemblies selected by the first switch, a ground speed sensor for determining the ground speed of the work machine, an optional steering pressure sensor for determining the steering effort required to turn the wheels associated with the front axle, and an electronic controller coupled to the first and second switches and to the respective sensors for receiving signals therefrom, the controller outputting a signal to actuate the locking mechanism of the differential assemblies selected by the position of the first switch when the controller receives a signal indicative of the second switch being actuated, and a signal indicative of the ground speed being below a predetermined ground speed. In addition, if the locking mechanism of the front axle differential has been selected for actuation by the first switch, the controller will only lock-up the front axle differential when it receives an additional signal indicative of the steering effort being below a predetermined amount.

Differential lock control system

Elevating scrapers are useful for loading material into a bowl and transporting the material to a location for dumping. When the elevator loads material into the bowl, a portion tends to slide forward between the side walls and the elevator and out of the bowl. The subject arrangement provides a blocking plate attached to the side wall which extends toward the elevator. The blocking plate blocks the reverse flow of material between the side wall and the elevator. This arrangement of components reduces the amount of time needed to load the material into the bowl.

Growing community of inventors

Clinton, IL, United States of America

Jerry F Smith