Gary A Robison

US Patent:

6491126, Dec 10, 2002

Filed:

Jun 24, 1999

Appl. No.:

09/339517

Inventors:

Gary Robison - Fletcher NC
Claude Gagnon - Magog, CA
Vincent Morin - Canton de Brompton, CA

Assignee:

Bombardier Inc. - Montreal

International Classification:

B60K 17344

US Classification:

180233, 475 88

Abstract:

A four-wheel drive straddle-type all-terrain vehicle has a progressive limited-slip differential that functions as an open differential when the wheel speed differential is less than a predetermined threshold, or cutting point, and functions as a progressive limited-slip differential when the wheel speed differential exceeds the cutting point. The progressive limited-slip differential is able to transfer torque to the wheel with greater traction as a generally linear function of the wheel speed differential, meaning that the more one wheel slips with respect to the other, the more torque is transferred from the slipping wheel to the wheel with traction. The progressive limited-slip differential comprises a rotary shear pump that drives a piston against a pack of clutch plates. The force of the piston against the clutch pack locks the left and right axles together to provide optimal traction in slippery conditions. Since the rotation of the pump is caused by relative wheel spin, the progressive limited-slip differential is said to be speed-sensitive in that it is responsive to wheel speed differential and exerts a locking force directly proportional to speed differential.

US Patent:

61421235, Nov 7, 2000

Filed:

Feb 12, 1999

Appl. No.:

9/249000

Inventors:

Mario M. Galasso - Newtown CT
Christopher P. D'Aluisio - Bethel CT
Gary Robison - Penrose NC

Assignee:

Cannondale Corporation - Bethel CT

International Classification:

F02M 5100
B60K 4104

US Classification:

123486

Abstract:

The present invention is directed towards a motorcycle or off-road use with an improved engine, air inlet, exhaust and engine control management. The engine is an improved four-stroke engine with a monocoque cylinder and crank case. The air inlet has been moved to the head tube of the motorcycle frame. The engine is reverse flow with the exhaust coming out the rear side and being shortened to less than about 50 inches. The engine control management has been modified to include an ignition interrupt, gear based ignition timing and after market tuning capabilities.