Power systems for a power machine

Abstract

A power system 222 for a power machine 100 can include a first power sub-system 420, a second power sub-system 425, and a third power sub-system 430. The first power sub-system 420 may include a first electric motor to power a tractive element 140 of the power machine 100. The second power sub-system 425 may include a second electric motor to power a workgroup element of the power machine 100. The third power sub-system 430 may include a third electric motor to power an auxiliary element of the power machine 100. The first electric motor, second electric motor, and third electric motor may be independently powered via an electric power source 220 of the power machine 100.

Description

Docket No.: E2023-0016-W01POWER SYSTEMS FOR A POWER MACHINECROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of United States provisional application no.63 / 748,820, filed 23 January 2025, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety as though fully set forth herein.BACKGROUND

[0002] This disclosure is directed toward power machines. More particularly, the present disclosure is directed to a power system arrangement for power machines. Power machines, for the purposes of this disclosure, include any type of machine that generates power to accomplish a particular task or a variety of tasks. One type of power machine is a work vehicle. Work vehicles are generally self-propelled vehicles that have a work device, such as a lift arm (although some work vehicles can have other work devices) that can be manipulated to perform a work function. Work vehicles include telehandlers, loaders, excavators, utility vehicles, tractors including compact tractors, and trenchers, to name a few examples. Other types of power machines can include mini-loaders (e.g., mini track loaders), and mowers.

[0003] Different types of power machines, including telehandlers, can include a power system powered by a power source to operate one or more components of the power machine. For example, some power machines include hydraulic systems that are powered by an internal combustion engine to operate two or more tractive elements of the power machine.

[0004] The discussion above is merely provided for general background information and is not intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.SUMMARY

[0005] According to some aspects of the disclosure, a power system for a power machine can include a first power sub-system, a second power sub-system, and a third power sub-system. The first power sub-system may include a first electric motor to power a tractive element of the power machine. The second power sub-system may include a second electric motor to power a workgroup element of the power machine. The third power sub-system may include a third electric motor toDocket No.: E2023-0016-W01power an auxiliary element of the power machine. The first electric motor, second electric motor, and third electric motor may be independently powered via an electric power source of the power machine.

[0006] According to some aspects of the disclosure, a method of using a power machine can include selectively powering a tractive element of the power machine with a first power subsystem, the first power sub-system including an electric drive motor arranged outside of a power bay that is on a first lateral side of the power machine, selectively powering a workgroup element of the power machine with a second power sub-system, the second power sub-system including an electric workgroup motor arranged within the power bay of the power machine, and constantly powering an auxiliary element of the power machine with a third power sub-system, the third power sub-system including an electric auxiliary motor arranged within the power bay of the power machine.

[0007] This Summary and the Abstract are provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor are they intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] The following drawings are provided to help illustrate various features of non-limiting examples of the present disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure or exclude alternative implementations.

[0009] FIG. l is a block diagram illustrating functional systems of an example power machine according to some examples of the disclosed technology.

[0010] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an example configuration of the power machine of FIG. 1.

[0011] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a telehandler that includes the systems represented by the block diagram of FIG. 2.

[0012] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a power system of the telehandler of FIG. 3.

[0013] FIG. 5 is a hydraulic circuit diagram of the power system of FIG. 4.Docket No.: E2023-0016-W01

[0014] FIG. 6 is a botom view of the telehandler of FIG. 3, illustrating an arrangement of the power system of FIG. 4.

[0015] FIG. 7 is a first axonometric partial view of a portion of the power system of FIG. 4.

[0016] FIG. 8 is a second axonometric partial view of a portion of the power system of FIG. 4.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] The concepts disclosed in this discussion are described and illustrated by referring to exemplary implementations of the disclosed technology. These concepts, however, are not limited in their application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components in the illustrative examples and are capable of being practiced or being carried out in various other ways. The terminology in this document is used for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. Words such as “including,” “comprising,” and “having” and variations thereof as used herein are meant to encompass the items listed thereafter, equivalents thereof, as well as additional items.

[0018] Conventional power machines may be configured with a power system that includes a power source (e.g., internal combustion engine) configured to power one or more tractive, workgroup, or auxiliary elements of the power machine. For example, conventional power machines may include only a single motor and corresponding hydraulic pump used to power a combination of elements (e.g., each of the workgroup and auxiliary elements of the power machine). Such arrangements may result in over-sizing of the motor and pump, which may lead to inefficient operation of the power machine. In particular, this type of operational system may not be useful in electrically powered machines that use a rechargeable battery system in place of an internal combustion engine. For example, as a result of the over-sizing of a single motor and pump package (which is capable of providing sufficient flow to all systems), the battery of an electric power machine may drain rapidly even when all this flow is not requested / needed by the machine, which may prevent operation through a full workday.

[0019] Examples of the present disclosure can address these problems, for example, by providing a power system that includes separate power systems for tractive elements, for workgroup elements, and for auxiliary elements. In some examples, a first power system may include a hydrostatic tractive motor, a hydrostatic drive pump, and an electric drive motor thatDocket No.: E2023-0016-W01collectively power one or more tractive elements (e.g., axles, wheels, etc.). A second power system may include a workgroup electric motor and a workgroup hydraulic pump that collectively power one or more workgroup elements (e.g., lift arms, implements, etc.). A third power system may include an auxiliary electric motor and an auxiliary hydraulic pump used to power one or more auxiliary elements (e.g., power steering, braking, hydrostatic charge, cooling, or other non-tractive, non -workgroup components).

[0020] In some examples, each of the separate first, second, and third power systems may be independently controlled based on the current operation of the power machine. For example, when the power machine receives a travel command, power may be sent to the first power system to operate the one or more tractive elements, but may not be sent to the second power system to operate the one or more workgroup elements. Similarly, if no workgroup or travel command is received, power may not be sent to either of the first or second power systems, while the third power system may be powered to provide cooling, steering, or other auxiliary functions. Thus, each of the motors or pumps may be sized appropriately for their intended use to prevent oversizing and reduce unneeded power draw from the power source.

[0021] In one particular example, the third power system may receive constant power from the power source (e.g., whenever the power machine is on) to permit operation of the one or more auxiliary elements. As should be appreciated, through selective operation of the first, second, and third power systems, the overall battery life of the power system may be increased, which may correspond to a longer period of operation of the power machine. Further, as noted above, the ability to selectively provide power to (and via) only some of the power systems can allow for more efficient configuration of the various parts.

[0022] Although examples herein focus particularly on telehandlers - e.g., battery-powered telehandlers - implementations of the disclosed technology can be practiced on a variety of power machines with a variety of ground-engaging elements. In this regard, FIG. 1 is a block diagram that illustrates the basic systems of a power machine 100, which can be any of a number of different types of power machines and upon which the embodiments discussed below can be advantageously incorporated. The block diagram of FIG. 1 identifies various systems on power machine 100 and the relationship between various components and systems. In particular, the power machine 100 has a frame 110, a power source 120, a workgroup work element 130 and tractive work elementsDocket No.: E2023-0016-W01140. The workgroup work element 130 can be operated to perform work tasks (e.g., mowing, digging, cutting, grading, etc.) and the tractive work elements 140 can be operated move the power machine over a support surface. In the illustrated example, the power machine 100 also includes an operator station 150 that provides an operating position for controlling the work elements of the power machine. In some examples, however, no operator station may be included.

[0023] A control system 160 is provided to interact with other systems of the power machine 100 to perform various tasks, including in response to control signals provided by an operator. For example, the control system 160 can be an integrated or distributed architecture of one or more controllers (e.g., one or more processor devices and one or more memories) that are collectively configured to receive operator input or other input signals (e.g., sensor data) and to output commands accordingly for power machine operations (e.g., workgroup operations, tractive operations, etc.).

[0024] Some power machines have work elements that can perform a dedicated task. For example, some power machines include a mower deck that can be attached to a main frame of the work vehicles in various ways (e.g., with a fixed mount, as an implement attached to a lift arm, etc.). Cutting elements of the mower deck can be controlled as needed. For example, the control system 160 can control the speed of one or more rotating blades, or a position of the mower deck relative to the frame, or the mower deck can be otherwise manipulated to perform mowing or other tasks.

[0025] Some power machines can include other dedicated work elements, including cutting or drilling implements, buckets, grading blades, and others as variously known in the art. In some cases, work elements can be interchanged on a particular power machine (e.g., as attachable implements that can be supported by a lift arm, or otherwise). In this regard, for example, the power machine 100 as illustrated includes an implement interface 170, which provides a connection between the frame 110 or the work element 130 and an attachable implement. In some cases, the implement interface 170 can be a direct connection to secure an implement directly to the frame 110 or to the work element 130 (e.g., can be a pinned connection directly to a lift arm). In some cases, the implement interface 170 can include a linkage or other support structure, or can be formed as an implement carrier (e.g., which may be configured to secure and support various implements, and may itself be controllably movable relative to the frame 110 or the work elementDocket No.: E2023-0016-W01130). In some examples, the implement interface 170 can be a pinned or other connection that secures a mower deck to a movable support structure, so that the mower deck can be supported at selected heights relative to the frame 110 (and the ground).

[0026] In some example, the frame 110 can be rigid (e.g., formed from a single member, a weldment, or other unified structure). In some examples, at least one portion of the frame 110 may be movable relative to another. For example, excavators can have an upper frame portion that rotates with respect to a lower frame portion, and some power machines can include articulated frames that are pivotable about one or more vertical (or other) axes. Articulated frames, for example, can be used to implement steering operations, provide improved following of terrain, or otherwise.

[0027] The frame 110 supports the power source 120, which can provide power to the work element 130 or the tractive elements 140. In some cases, the power source 120 can provide power for use by an implement attached at the implement interface 170. In some examples, power from the power source 120 can be provided directly to the work element 130, the tractive elements 140, or implement interfaces 170 (e.g., via direct mechanical or electrical connection). In some examples, power from the power source can be provided indirectly to the work element 130, the tractive elements 140, or the implement interfaces 170 (e.g., may be transferred via hydraulic operations, or a combination of electrical and hydraulic operations). In some examples, the control system 160 can control routing of power from the power source 120 to other systems (e g., via a system of electronic, hydraulic, electro-hydraulic, or other control devices, including as generally known in the art).

[0028] In some examples, the power source 120 can include an engine (e.g., an internal combustion engine). In some examples, the power source 120 can include an electrical power source (e.g., a battery, a capacitor, a fuel cell, etc ). In some examples, hybrid power sources can be provided (e.g., with a combination of an engine and an electrical power source). In some examples, a power conversion system can be provided to convert power from the power source 120 into other forms useable by the work element 130, the tractive elements 140, or an implement at the implement interface 170. For example, a hydraulic system can be used to convert rotational output from the power source 120 into hydraulic power (e.g., to power hydrostatic or other operations). Similarly, an electrical system can be used to convert electrical output from the powerDocket No.: E2023-0016-W01source 120 into non-electrical power (e.g., rotational mechanical power, or hydraulic power via a coupled hydraulic system).

[0029] For simplicity of presentation, FIG. 1 shows the work element 130, but various examples can include various numbers of work elements. In some examples, as also discussed above, work elements can include mower decks or other similar equipment. In some examples, work elements can include lift arm assemblies or other similar systems. The tractive elements 140 are a special case of work elements and may be provided in various number and configuration. In some examples, tractive elements can be arranged and controllable for independent operation and can be steerable in some cases. In some examples, one or more tractive elements on a first side of the power machine 100 may be separately controllable from one or more tractive elements on a second side of the power machine 100 (e.g., controllable for rotation in opposite directions for “skid steer” operation). Tractive elements can be, for example, wheels attached to an axle, track assemblies, or other assemblies of known configurations to convey tractive power from the frame 110 to a supporting surface.

[0030] In some examples, the tractive elements 140 can be rigidly mounted to the frame 110 so as to be limited to rotation about one or more corresponding axles. In some examples, the tractive elements 140 can be pivotally mounted to the frame 110. In some power machines, including zeroradius turn mowers, one or more caster wheels or similar devices can be used in combination with rigidly mounted tractive elements, with the rigidly mounted tractive elements provide tractive power and allowing the power machine to be steered via implementation of different groundengaging speeds at tractive elements on opposing sides of the power machine. Such an arrangement is referred to herein as a zero-radius turn configuration and can in particular be implemented on mowers, as further discussed below.

[0031] In some power machines, the operator station 150 is defined by an enclosed or partially enclosed cab. In some examples, the operation station 150 can include a standing or other platform (e.g., without overhead enclosure). In some example, the operator station 150 can be a remote station (e.g., as provided by a remote control device not attached to the frame 110). In some examples, the operator station 150 can be supported by the frame 110 by accessible by operators that are not (e.g., by an operator walking behind the power machine 100).Docket No.: E2023-0016-W01

[0032] FIG. 2 illustrates an example of an electrically powered telehandler 200, which is one particular example of the power machine 100 illustrated in FIG. 1. To that end, features of the telehandler 200 described below include reference numbers that are generally similar to those used in FIG. 1. For example, the telehandler 200 has a frame 210, just as power machine 100 has a frame 110. The telehandler 200 should not be considered limiting especially as to the description of features that telehandler 200 may have described herein that are not essential to the disclosed examples and thus may or may not be included in power machines other than the telehandler 200 upon which the examples disclosed below may be advantageously practiced. Unless specifically noted otherwise, examples disclosed below can be practiced on a variety of power machines, with the telehandler 200 being only one of those power machines. For example, some or all of the concepts discussed below can be practiced on many other types of work vehicles such as various other loaders, excavators, trenchers, and dozers, to name but a few examples.

[0033] The frame 210 of the telehandler 200 supports a power system 222 that can generate or otherwise provide power for operating various functions on the power machine. In particular, the power system 222 can include an electric power source 220 configured to supply electric power for power machine operations (e.g., a battery assembly, a generator, a capacitor system, etc.), as well as a power conversion system 224 arranged to utilize the power from the power source 220 for useful power machine operations.

[0034] In particular, the power conversion system 224 of the telehandler 200 can include various components, including mechanical transmissions, hydraulic systems, various motors or other actuators, and the like. In some examples, the power conversion system 224 of the telehandler 200 includes one or more actuators 226 (e.g., electric motors 226A, 226B, 226C), which can be powered by the power source 220 and can be selectively controllable (e.g., via the control system 260) to provide a power to various work elements of the telehandler 200. In some examples, as further discussed below, a tractive motor 226A can power a drive pump 230 (e.g., a hydrostatic drive pump), which may be connected to a drive motor 250 (e.g., a hydrostatic drive motor), which may provide power to axles 228A, 228B. Further, an auxiliary motor 226B can power an auxiliary pump 238 (e.g., a hydraulic pump) configured to provide pressurized hydraulic fluid to one or more auxiliary functions within an auxiliary circuit 258 of the telehandler 200 (e.g., braking, steering, oil-cooling flow, pre-charge flow, etc.). Additionally, a workgroup motor 226C can power a workgroup pump 234 (e.g., a hydraulic pump) configured to provide pressurized hydraulicDocket No.: E2023-0016-W01fluid to one or more work implements within a workgroup circuit 254 of the telehandler 200 (e.g., hydraulic actuators to raise and lower a lift arm, extend or retract a telescoping boom, tilt an implement carrier, etc.).

[0035] FIG. 3 illustrates an example telehandler 200, which is one particular example of a power machine 100 of FIG. 1, where the examples discussed below can be advantageously employed. To that end, features of the telehandler 200 described below include reference numbers that are generally similar to those used in FIGS. 1 and 2. For example, the telehandler 200 is described as having a frame 210, just as power machine 100 has a frame 110. However, the telehandler 200 as illustrated should not be considered limiting, and examples disclosed below can also be practiced on a variety of other power machines.

[0036] The frame 210 of the telehandler 200 supports a power system 222 that is capable of generating or otherwise providing power for operating various functions on the power machine. In particular the power system 222 can include an electric power source (e.g., a battery assembly, a capacitor assembly, a fuel cell, etc.) in some examples. Power system 222 is shown in block diagram form and is located within the frame 210.

[0037] The frame 210 also supports a work element in the form of a lift arm assembly 330 (e.g., including a telescoping boom) that is powered by the power system 222 and that can perform various work tasks. As the telehandler 200 is a work vehicle, the frame 210 also supports the traction system 240, which is also powered by power system 222 and can propel the power machine over a support surface. The lift arm assembly 330 in turn supports an implement (e.g., accessory) interface 370 that can receive and secure various implements to the telehandler 200 for performing various work tasks. In some examples, the implement interface 370 (or other subsystem) can include power couplers, to which an implement can be coupled to receive hydraulic or electric power from the power system 222.

[0038] The lift arm assembly 330 shown in FIG. 3 is one example of many different types of lift arm assemblies that can be attached to a power machine such as telehandler 200 or other power machines on which examples of the present discussion can be practiced. The lift arm assembly 330 is moveable using actuators (e.g., hydraulic cylinders), to change position of the lift arm assembly 330 along a lift path with respect to the frame 210 (e.g., to raise and lower the lift arm assembly as desired). Other lift arm assemblies can have different geometries and can be coupled to theDocket No.: E2023-0016-W01frame of a loader in various ways to provide lift paths. For example, some lift arm assemblies are configured to provide a vertical lift path, while others are configured to provide a radial lift path. Some lift arm assemblies can have an extendable or telescoping portion. Some power machines can have a plurality of lift arm assemblies attached to their frames, with each lift arm assembly being movable independent of the other(s). In one particular example, the lift arm assembly 330 of the telehandler 200 may be offset (e.g., laterally offset) to one side of the telehandler 200, with an operator station 355 arranged laterally from the lift arm assembly 330. Unless specifically stated otherwise, none of the inventive concepts set forth in this discussion are limited by the type or number of lift arm assemblies that are coupled to a particular power machine.

[0039] Some lift arms, including lift arms on excavators, may have portions that are controllable to pivot with respect to another segment instead of moving in concert (i.e., along a pre-determined path). Some power machines have lift arm assemblies with a single lift arm, such as is known in excavators, in some loaders, and in other power machines.

[0040] Generally, implements can be located forward of a front end of a frame of the telehandler 200 (or at other locations), including implements that include or provide any suitable accessory for the telehandler 200. For example, an implement 380 can be configured as a bucket (e.g., as shown), one or more forks, or a man lift, but is not so limited and may be nearly any variety of accessory that may be utilized and / or driven by the telehandler 200. Generally, implements have a complementary machine interface that is configured to be engaged with the implement interface 370 in an operational configuration. Further, various implement power couplers can be included to provide hydraulic or electrical signals to or from an associated implement (e.g., the implement 380).

[0041] As mentioned above, the telehandler 200 includes the operator station 355, from which an operator can manipulate various control devices to cause the power machine to perform various work functions. In some examples, the operator station 355 includes an operator seat and a plurality of operation input devices, including control levers and a steering wheel (e.g., control devices) that an operator can manipulate to control various machine functions, including as steering functions, drive functions, and auxiliary hydraulic functions (i.e., pressurized hydraulic flow made selectively available to an operably coupled implement). Operator input devices can include various humanmachine interfaces including buttons, switches, levers, sliders, pedals, touchscreens, and the likeDocket No.: E2023-0016-W01that can be stand-alone devices such as hand-operated levers or foot-operated pedals, incorporated into hand grips, or incorporated into display panels, which may be included on a dashboard, including programmable input devices. Actuation of operator input devices can generate signals in the form of electrical signals, hydraulic signals, or mechanical signals. Signals generated in response to operator input devices are provided to various components on the power machine for controlling various functions on the power machine (e.g., to or via one or more electronic controllers of a larger electronic control system). Among the functions that can be controlled via operator input devices on telehandler 200 include control of the traction system 240, the lift arm assembly 330, the implement interface 370, and providing signals to any implement that may be operably coupled to the implement.

[0042] Other power machines, including walk behind power machines may not have a cab nor an operator compartment, nor a seat. The operator position on such power machines is generally defined relative to a position where an operator can access and manipulate relevant operator input devices.

[0043] Various power machines that can include or interact with the examples discussed below can have various different frame components that support various work elements. The frame 210 discussed herein can include many elements, however the frame 210 is not the only type of frame that a power machine on which the disclosed technology can be practiced can employ. For example, the frame 210 of telehandler 200 can include an undercarriage or lower portion of the frame 210 and a mainframe or upper portion of the frame 210 that is supported by the undercarriage. The main frame of telehandler 200, in some examples is attached to the undercarriage such as with fasteners or by welding the undercarriage to the main frame. Alternatively, the main frame and undercarriage can be integrally formed. The frame 210 also supports a set of tractive elements in the form of wheels 350 at the front and back of both sides of the telehandler 200.

[0044] The description of power machine 100 and telehandler 200 above is provided for illustrative purposes, to provide illustrative environments on which the examples discussed below can be practiced. While the examples discussed can be practiced on a power machine such as is generally described by the power machine 100 shown in the block diagram of FIG. 1 and moreDocket No.: E2023-0016-W01particularly on the telehandler 200, unless otherwise noted or recited, the concepts discussed below are not intended to be limited in their application to the environments specifically described above.

[0045] Turning now to FIG. 4, an example of the power system 222 of the telehandler 200 is shown. As shown, the power system 222 may include one or more separate power sub-systems, which may each be configured to power a particular set or subset of components of the telehandler 200 (e.g., by converting or routing power from a common electrical power source). For example, the power system 222 may include a first power sub-system 420, a second power sub-system 425, and a third power sub-system 430. In some examples, the first power sub-system 420 may be configured to power one or more tractive elements of the telehandler 200. For example, the first power sub-system 420 may include the tractive motor 226A, the drive pump 230, and the drive motor 250. In some examples, the second power sub-system 425 may be configured to power one or more workgroup elements of the telehandler 200. For example, the second power sub-system 425 may include the workgroup motor 226C, the workgroup pump 234, and the workgroup circuit 254. In some examples, the third power sub-system 430 may be configured to power one or more auxiliary elements of the telehandler 200. For example, the third power sub-system 430 may include the auxiliary motor 226B, the auxiliary pump 238, and the auxiliary circuit 258.

[0046] In some cases, each of the first power sub-system 420, the second power sub-system 425, and the third power sub-system 430 may be independent systems, i.e., may be selectively powered by the power source 220 (e.g., a battery system) independently from each other. Thus, the first, second, and third power systems 420, 425, 430 may selectively (and independently) power the tractive elements, workgroup elements, or the auxiliary elements, respectively. In one particular example, the third power sub-system 430 may receive constant power from the power source 220 to facilitate consistent activation of the one or more auxiliary elements (e.g., a steering system, braking system, etc.). In contrast, the first and second power sub-system 420, 425 may selectively (e.g., intermittently) receive power from the power source 220 depending on the current operations of the telehandler 200. For example, electric power may be routed to the power sub-system 420 only when travel commands are received, and electric power may be routed to the power subsystem 425 only when commands are received for operation of a lift arm or other workgroup element. Thus, due to the separation between the first power sub-system 420, the second power sub-system 425, and the third power sub-system 430, more efficient operation of the telehandlerDocket No.: E2023-0016-W01200 may be achieved, which may increase overall runtime of the telehandler 200 (e.g., operation time of the telehandler 200 without the need for charging of the power source 220).

[0047] In some examples, the first power sub-system 420 may be controlled by a motor controller 435, the second power sub-system 425 may be controlled by a motor controller 440, and the third power sub-system 430 may be controller by a motor controller 445. For example, the motor controllers 435, 440, 445 may be used to selectively operate the respective power systems 420, 425, 430 based on power allocation from the power source 220. In some examples, power from the power source 220 may be allocated via one or more power distribution units (PDUs) 415, which may distribute power to each of the motor controllers 435, 440, 445 based on the operations of the telehandler 200. For example, during travel of the telehandler 200 over terrain, power may be distributed to the first power sub-system 420. However, if no workgroup element is being concurrently used, then power may not be distributed to the second power sub-system 425. As mentioned previously, power may be constantly distributed to the third power sub-system 430 whenever the telehandler 200 is turned on. In some examples, rather than using the motor controllers 435, 440, 445, only a single motor controller (with multiple channels) may be used to control each of the motors 226A, 226B, 226C or sub-combinations thereof.

[0048] Generally, the power source 220 may be an internal power source (i.e., internal to the telehandler 200). For example, the power source 220 may be in the form of one or more batteries (e g., rechargeable batteries) supported by a frame of the telehandler 200 or other known electric power sources. In one particular example, the power source 220 may be in the form of a series of battery packs that together can supply 30 kWh of usable energy. The power source 220 may be recharged via connection between the telehandler 200 and an external power source 405 (e.g., via a charging cord, charging station, etc.). For example, the telehandler 200 may include a charging socket to receive the charging cord. In some examples, the external power source 405 may be an alternating current (AC) source and the internal power source 220 may be a direct current (DC) power source. Thus, a rectifier 410 may be arranged upstream of the internal power source 220 to convert AC to DC.

[0049] FIG. 5 illustrates an example hydraulic diagram for the power system 222. For example, hydraulic fluid may flow from one or more reservoirs 505 to each of the pumps 230, 234, 238. As mentioned previously, the pumps 230, 234, 238 may be controllably powered by respective motorsDocket No.: E2023-0016-W01226A, 226B, 226C in response to commands from the motor controllers 435, 440, 445 (e.g., which in turn may be in response to operator input commands). However, in some examples, the auxiliary motor 226B may constantly receive power from the power source 220 while the telehandler 200 is in an operational state (e.g., even in the absence of corresponding operator input commands), while the motors 226A and 226C may selectively receive power from the power source 220 (e.g., based on the current operating conditions of the telehandler 200).

[0050] The workgroup pump 234 may route pressurized hydraulic fluid through the workgroup circuit 254 via operation of a valve 510. For example, the valve 510 may selectively prohibit, permit, or inhibit the flow of hydraulic fluid from the workgroup pump 234 to one or more workgroup elements 515 (e.g., linear or other actuators to move the lift arm assembly 330, the implement interface 370, or the implement 380) to facilitate use of the workgroup elements (e.g., in response to an operator command). While a single valve 510 and workgroup element 515 have been show for illustrative purposes, it is to be appreciated that the motor 226C / pump 234 may route pressurized fluid to a plurality of valves / actuators within the workgroup circuit 254. In some specific embodiments, a main control valve may control multiple workgroup elements simultaneously.

[0051] The auxiliary pump 238 may route pressurized hydraulic fluid through the auxiliary circuit 258 via operation of a valve 520. For example, based on operator input commands, the valve 520 may selectively prohibit, permit, or inhibit the flow of hydraulic fluid from the auxiliary pump 238 to one or more auxiliary elements 525 (e.g., the brakes, power steering, etc.). Further, hydraulic fluid from the auxiliary pump 238 may be selectively supplied to a hydrostatic circuit 530 to provide charge to the hydrostatic circuit 530, although a separate charge pump is provided in the illustrated example, or may operate other auxiliary elements (e.g., cooling fan motors).

[0052] The drive pump 230 may route pressurized hydraulic fluid through the hydrostatic drive circuit 530. For example, the drive pump 230 may route pressurized hydraulic fluid through the hydrostatic drive circuit 530 to the drive motor 250 (e.g., a hydrostatic motor), which may power rotation of the one or more of the axles 228A, 228B (shown in FIG. 2) to rotate the wheels 240 and generate movement of the telehandler 200 (e.g., in accordance with corresponding operator input commands). As noted above, a separate charge pump can be provided in some cases, including as can also be powered by the motor 226A.Docket No.: E2023-0016-W01

[0053] FIGS. 6-8 illustrate examples of the telehandler 200 including the power system 222. In some examples, the power source 220, the auxiliary motor 226B, the auxiliary pump 238, the workgroup motor 226C, and the workgroup pump 234 may be arranged within a power bay 610 of the telehandler 200. For example, the power bay 610 may be arranged on one lateral side of the telehandler 200, laterally opposite the operator station 355 of the telehandler 200. Further, the auxiliary motor 226B and workgroup motor 226C may be arranged adjacent each other within the power bay 610 (e.g., to be supported on a common support bracket or other support structure). In one particular example, the auxiliary motor 226B may be an 8kW electric motor connected to a 14 cc configuration of the auxiliary pump 238, while the workgroup motor 226C may be a 17-23 kW electric motor connected to a 25 cc configuration of the workgroup pump 234. In the example shown, the power bay 610 is laterally separated from other systems of the telehandler 200 by a solid wall of the frame 210 (e g., with various pass-through openings for cables, hydraulic lines, etc.), although other configurations are possible.

[0054] In some examples, the tractive motor 226A and the drive pump 230 may be arranged outside of the power bay 610. For example, the tractive motor 226A and the drive pump 230 may be arranged laterally offset from and between both the power bay 610 and a driveshaft 625 of the telehandler 200. For example, the driveshaft 625 may define a rotational axis 620 that is laterally offset from a rotational axis 615 of the tractive motor 226A. In some examples, the drive motor 250 may be arranged at the axle 228A to power rotation of the axle 228A and therefore rotation of the wheels 350. In some examples, the drive motor 250 may also power rotation of the axle 228B, via a mechanical drive shaft 625 extending from axle 228A or via another power transmission element. However, in some alternative examples, a second drive motor 605 may be optionally arranged on the axle 228B to power rotation of the axle 228B, or one or both of the motors 250, 605 may be otherwise arranged (e.g., as a single dual-rotor assembly arranged along the driveshaft 625F). Further, due to the arrangement of the drive motor 250 and other control components, the telehandler 200 may permit selective operation of the axle 228A (e.g., 2WD), the axle 228B (e.g., 2WD), or both axles 228A and 228B (e.g., 4WD). In one particular example, the tractive motor 226A may be a 20-39 kW electric motor and the drive pump 230 may be a 45 cc pump.

[0055] In some examples, the power bay 610 may further include a cooling system 705, which may provide liquid cooling of the workgroup motor 226C, the tractive motor 226A, or the power source 220. Further, the auxiliary motor 226B and corresponding auxiliary pump 238 may be usedDocket No.: E2023-0016-W01to power the cooling system 705. The auxiliary motor 226B may be liquid or air cooled in some examples. Further, in some examples, the rectifier 410 may be arranged outside of the power bay 610, upstream of the internal power source 220, to convert AC (e.g., from an external power source) to DC (e.g., to charge in the internal power source 220). In some examples, the rectifier 410 may be arranged along the rotational axis 615 of the tractive motor 226A. However, alternative locations of the rectifier 410 are envisioned.

[0056] In some implementations, devices or systems disclosed herein can be utilized or configured for operation using methods embodying aspects of the present disclosure. Correspondingly, description herein of particular features, capabilities, or intended purposes of a device or system is generally intended to inherently include disclosure of a method of using such features for the intended purposes, a method of implementing such capabilities, and a method of configuring disclosed (or otherwise known) components to support these purposes or capabilities. Similarly, unless otherwise indicated or limited, discussion herein of any method of manufacturing or using a particular device or system, including configuring the device or system for operation, is intended to inherently include disclosure, as examples of the disclosed technology, of the utilized features and implemented capabilities of such device or system.

[0057] Certain operations of methods according to the present disclosure, or of systems executing those methods, may be represented schematically in the figures or otherwise discussed herein. Unless otherwise specified or limited, representation in the figures of particular operations in particular spatial order may not necessarily require those operations to be executed in a particular sequence corresponding to the particular spatial order. Correspondingly, certain operations represented in the figures, or otherwise disclosed herein, can be executed in different orders than are expressly illustrated or described, as appropriate for particular implementations of the present disclosure. Further, in some examples, certain operations can be executed in parallel.

[0058] As used herein, unless otherwise limited or defined, “or” indicates a non-exclusive list of components or operations that can be present in any variety of combinations, rather than an exclusive list of components that can be present only as alternatives to each other. For example, a list of “A, B, or C” indicates options of: A; B; C; A and B; A and C; B and C; and A, B, and C. Correspondingly, the term “or” as used herein is intended to indicate exclusive alternatives only when preceded by terms of exclusivity, such as “either,” “one of,” “only one of,” or “exactly oneDocket No.: E2023-0016-W01of.” For example, a list of “one of A, B, or C” indicates options of A, but not B and C; B, but not A and C; and C, but not A and B. A list preceded by “one or more” (and variations thereon) and including “or” to separate listed elements indicates options of one or more of any or all of the listed elements. For example, the phrases “one or more of A, B, or C” and “at least one of A, B, or C” indicate options of: one or more A; one or more B; one or more C; one or more A and one or more B; one or more B and one or more C; one or more A and one or more C; and one or more of A, one or more of B, and one or more of C. Similarly, a list preceded by “a plurality of’ (and variations thereon) and including “or” to separate listed elements indicates options of multiple instances of any or all of the listed elements. For example, the phrases “a plurality of A, B, or C” and “two or more of A, B, or C” indicate options of A and B; B and C; A and C; and A, B, and C.

[0059] Unless otherwise specified or limited, the terms “about” and “approximately,” as used herein with respect to a reference value, refer to variations from the reference value of ± 15% or less (e.g., ± 10%, ± 5%, etc.), inclusive of the endpoints of the range. Similarly, the term “substantially equal” (and the like) as used herein with respect to a reference value refers to variations from the reference value of less than ± 30% (e.g., ± 20%, ± 10%, ± 5%) inclusive. Where specified, “substantially” can indicate in particular a variation in one numerical direction relative to a reference value. For example, “substantially less” than a reference value (and the like) indicates a value that is reduced from the reference value by 30% or more, and “substantially more” than a reference value (and the like) indicates a value that is increased from the reference value by 30% or more.

[0060] As used herein in the context of a power machine, unless otherwise defined or limited, the term “lateral” refers to a direction that extends at least partly to a left or a right side of a front-to-back reference line defined by the power machine. Accordingly, for example, a lateral side wall of a cab of a power machine can be a left side wall or a right side wall of the cab, relative to a frame of reference of an operator who is within the cab or is otherwise oriented to operatively engage with controls of an operator station of the cab. Similarly, a “centerline” of a power machine refers to a reference line that extends in a front-to-back direction of a power machine, approximately half-way between opposing lateral sides of an outer spatial envelope of the power machine.Docket No.: E2023-0016-W01

[0061] Also as used herein in the context of power machines, unless otherwise defined or limited, “tractive” or “drive” designate actuators and other work elements of a power machine that can be powered by a power source to cause movement of the power machine over terrain (e.g., wheeled or tracked ground-engaging elements, motors configured to power ground-engaging elements, and related assemblies). In contrast, “workgroup” is used to refer to actuators or other work elements of a power machine associated with powered operation of work elements that are not configured to provide powered travel over terrain (e.g., lift arm structures, attached implements, motors or other actuators to power movement of lift arm structures or attached implements, auxiliary power take-off interfaces, and related assemblies). Thus, tractive (or drive) actuators are arranged to power travel of a power machine whereas workgroup actuators are arranged to power non-travel work operations of the power machine. Correspondingly, discussion of workgroup functions refers to one or more functions provided by movement of one or more workgroup elements of a power machine, whereas discussion of tractive (or drive) functions refer to one or more functions provided for movement of the power machine itself over terrain.

[0062] Similarly, as used herein, unless otherwise defined or limited, the terms “interior” and “exterior” refers to a relative relationship (e.g., a lateral distance) between one or more structures (e.g., a sub-structure) and a centerline of a reference structure (e.g., a main structure) that extends in a front-to-back direction or between first and second ends of the reference structure. For example, an interior structure is disposed closer to a centerline of a reference structure than an exterior structure. In this regard, an outboard structure of a subassembly of a power machine may also be an exterior structure, but an exterior structure of a subassembly, relative to a centerline of the subassembly, may not necessarily be outboard of other components of the subassembly.

[0063] Unless otherwise defined or limited, two components that are described herein as “substantially aligned” are aligned along a particular reference direction across more than half of a dimension of at least one the components in a direction orthogonal to the reference direction.

[0064] Also as used herein, unless otherwise limited or defined, “substantially parallel” indicates a direction that is within ± 12 degrees of a reference direction (e.g., within ± 6 degrees), inclusive. For a path that is not linear, the path can be considered to be substantially parallel to a reference direction if a straight line between end-points of the path is substantially parallel to the reference direction or a mean derivative of the path within a common reference frame as the referenceDocket No.: E2023-0016-W01direction is substantially parallel to the reference direction. Similarly, as used herein, unless otherwise limited or defined, “substantially perpendicular” indicates a direction that is within ± 12 degrees of perpendicular a reference direction (e.g., within ± 6 degrees), inclusive. For a path that is not linear, the path can be considered to be substantially perpendicular to a reference direction if a straight line between end-points of the path is substantially perpendicular to the reference direction or a mean derivative of the path within a common reference frame as the reference direction is substantially perpendicular to the reference direction.

[0065] Also as used herein, unless otherwise limited or defined, “operably supported” refers to two components that are moveably engaged together to transmit power. Similarly, “operably engaged” indicates that a first component and a second components are connected together so that the first component provides structural support to the second, relative to the first component or another structure.

[0066] Although the presently disclosed technology has been described with reference to preferred implementations, workers skilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the scope of the discussion.

Claims

Docket No.: E2023-0016-W01CLAIMS1. A power machine, comprising:a power system, including:a first power sub-system, the first power sub-system including a first electric motor configured to power a tractive element of the power machine;a second power sub-system, the second power sub-system including a second electric motor configured to power a workgroup element of the power machine;a third power sub-system, the third power sub-system including a third electric motor configured to power an auxiliary element of the power machine; andan electrical power source to independently power the first electric motor, the second electric motor, and the third electric motor.

2. The power machine of claim 1, wherein the electrical power source is a battery.

3. The power machine of claim 1, wherein the electrical power source is arranged within a power bay on a first lateral side of the power machine.

4. The power machine of claim 3, wherein the second electric motor and the third electric motor are arranged within the power bay of the power machine.

5. The power machine of claim 3, wherein the first electric motor is arranged outside of the power bay of the power machine.

6. The power machine of claim 5, wherein the first electric motor is laterally offset from a driveshaft of the of power machine.

7. The power machine of claim 6, wherein the first electric motor is arranged between the power bay and the driveshaft of the power machine.Docket No.: E2023-0016-W018. The power machine of claim 6, wherein the first electric motor is configured to power a hydrostatic drive pump, and the hydrostatic pump is laterally offset from the driveshaft of the power machine.

9. The power machine of claim 1, wherein power source is configured to constantly power the third electric motor during operation of the power machine, and selectively power the first and second electric motors during the operation of the power machine.

10. The power machine of claim 1, wherein the first power sub-system further includes: a first hydrostatic pump;the first electric motor configured to drive the first hydrostatic pump; anda first hydrostatic motor configured to receive pressurized fluid from the first hydrostatic pump and drive the tractive element of the power machine.

11. The power machine of claim 10, wherein the tractive element includes an axle of the power machine.

12. The power machine of claim 1, wherein the second power sub-system further includes:a first hydraulic pump; andthe second electric motor configured to drive the first hydraulic pump, wherein the first hydraulic pump is configured to deliver pressurized fluid to power the workgroup element of the power machine.

13. The power machine of claim 12, wherein the workgroup element includes a lift arm assembly of the power machine.

14. The power machine of claim 13, wherein the lift arm assembly is offset from a front-to-back centerline of the power machine, towards a first lateral side of the power machine; and the electrical power source, the second electric motor, and the third electric motor are arranged within a power bay on the first lateral side of the power machine, at least partly laterally outboard of a lift arm of the lift arm assembly.Docket No.: E2023-0016-W0115. The power machine of claim 14, further comprising:an operator compartment laterally offset from the lift arm assembly, towards a second lateral side of the power machine opposite the first lateral side.

16. The power machine of claim 1, wherein the third power sub-system includes:a second hydraulic pump connected to the third electric motor to power the auxiliary element of the power machine.

17. The power machine of claim 16, wherein the auxiliary element includes one of:a steering system of the power machine;a braking system of the power machine;a hydrostatic charge system of the power machine; ora cooling system of the power machine.

18. A method of using a power machine, the method comprising:selectively powering a tractive element of the power machine with a first power subsystem, the first power sub-system including an electric drive motor arranged outside of a power bay that is on a first lateral side of the power machine;selectively powering a workgroup element of the power machine with a second power subsystem, the second power sub-system including an electric workgroup motor arranged within the power bay of the power machine; andconstantly powering an auxiliary element of the power machine with a third power subsystem, the third power sub-system including an electric auxiliary motor arranged within the power bay of the power machine.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the electric drive motor is arranged laterally between the power bay and a driveshaft of the power machine.

20. The method of claim 18, further comprising:Docket No.: E2023-0016-W01powering the first power sub-system, the second power sub-system, and the third power sub-system independently via an electrical power source of the power machine.

21. The method of claim 18, wherein the first power sub-system includes a hydrostatic drive transmission.

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