Caterpillar Tractor Co.

Robert C Hansen

William K Engel

Lowell E Johnson

A fluidborne noise attenuator (14) comprises a dampening medium (27) which exhibits a bulk modulus (e.g., 50,000 psi to 180,000 psi) substantially greater than that of an inert gas, such as nitrogen, and substantially less than that of a hydraulic working fluid (e.g., 225,000 psi). The attenuator (14) is capable of attenuating noise levels of hydraulic fluid over wide frequency and mean system pressure ranges in contrast to conventional attenuators which are 'tuned' for the attenuation of noise levels at a specific frequency and mean system pressure.

Fluidborne noise attenuator

Reservoir with controlled pathway to a pump suction line

A fluid device has an inlet and a pumping chamber which is positioned in spaced relation to the inlet. The chamber is rotatably movable relative to the inlet. Apparatus is provided for contacting the fluid at the inlet at a preselected angle sufficient for accelerating the fluid into the chamber.

Self-filling fluid device

A hydrodynamic torque converter is provided with means for varying the torque capacity of the torque converter, including means for varying the capacity of the impeller. The capacity of the impeller is varied by means of movable impeller blades which are movable radially outward to vary the radius of the respective blades.

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East Peoria, IL, United States of America

Robert C Hansen