The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Jul. 04, 2000
Filed:
Nov. 12, 1998
Jerry F Smith, Clinton, IL (US);
David S Suckow, Decatur, IL (US);
Caterpillar Inc., Peoria, IL (US);
Abstract
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.