Linear generator apparatus
OwnerGérald Beaulieuinventor
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A linear generator apparatus includes first and second elongate coaxial bodies that are axially movable relative to one another with a reciprocating movement. The first body is axially and freely movable relative to the second body within a predetermined displacement range or free zone. A helical spring connecting to both first and second bodies biases the first body toward the free zone relative to the second body when outside of the free zone. An electrical power generator mounted on both first and second bodies generates power when the first and second bodies axially move relative to one another within the free zone and beyond. The invention also relates to a suspension system for motor vehicle that includes a coil spring and the apparatus in replacement of a conventional shock absorber.
Claims43
A linear generator apparatus, comprising:
- first and second elongate bodies generally coaxial relative to one another, said first and second bodies being generally axially movable relative to one another with a reciprocating movement, said first body being generally axially and freely movable relative to said second body within a predetermined displacement range;
- a means for biasing said first body toward said predetermined displacement range relative to said second body when outside of said predetermined displacement range, said biasing means connecting to both said first and second bodies;
- and
- a means for generating electrical power mounted on both said first and second bodies, said power generating means generating power when said first and second bodies axially move relative to one another at least within said predetermined displacement range.
A suspension system for a motor vehicle, comprising:
- a coil spring connected to a body structure of the motor vehicle and to a wheel mounting structure pivotally mounted on the body structure;
- a linear generator apparatus mounted on the motor vehicle between the body structure and the wheel mounting structure, said apparatus including:
- first and second elongate bodies generally coaxial relative to one another, said first and second bodies being generally axially movable relative to one another with a reciprocating movement, said first body being generally axially and freely movable relative to said second body within a predetermined displacement range;
- a means for biasing said first body toward said predetermined displacement range relative to said second body when outside of said predetermined displacement range, said biasing means connecting to both said first and second bodies;
- and
- a means for generating electrical power mounted on both said first and second bodies, said power generating means generating power when said first and second bodies axially move relative to one another at least within said predetermined displacement range.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.