Method and apparatus for controlling a mobile machine during start-up

Patent 6266596 Issued on July 24, 2001. Estimated Expiration Date:

June 13, 2020. Estimated Expiration Date is calculated based on simple USPTO term provisions. It does not account for terminal disclaimers, term adjustments, failure to pay maintenance fees, or other factors which might affect the term of a patent.

Abstract Claims Description Full Text

Patent References

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Steering control system for articulated vehicle
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Inventors

Assignee

Caterpillar Inc.

Application

No. 592622 filed on 06/13/2000

US Classes:

701/50, Construction or agricultural-type vehicle (e.g., crane, forklift)180/419, Combined with another steering mode701/41, Steering control701/113Starting, warmup

Examiners

Primary: Nguyen, Tan T.

Attorney, Agent or Firm

Lundquist; Steve D.

International Class

B62D 005/04

Abstract

A method and apparatus for controlling a mobile machine during start-up. The mobile machine has a prime power source, a means for transport, and at least one auxiliary system; the means for transport and the at least one auxiliary system are controllably driven by the prime power source. The method and apparatus includes determining an actual angle of steering of the mobile machine, comparing the actual angle of steering with a desired angle of steering, starting the prime power source, enabling engagement of the at least one auxiliary system, and disabling engagement of the means for transport in response to the difference between the actual angle of steering and the desired angle of steering being greater than a predetermined threshold value.