US 8515637

Here is a concise summary of US patent 8515637:

US Patent 8515637: Machine control system and method

• Title: Machine control system and method
• Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
• Inventors: Randall T. Anderson, Corwin E. Storer
• Filing Date: 2010-12-23
• Issue Date: 2013-08-20
• Abstract: A machine control system includes an input receiving portion configured to receive torque inputs related to a hydrostatic transmission. The input receiving portion also receives an operator request for actuating the hydrostatic transmission. The machine control system additionally includes a processor configured to determine a factor based at least in part on the torque inputs, for adjusting the operator request. The processor is further configured to determine a command for actuating the hydrostatic transmission based on the adjusted operator request, such that a torque load to be exerted on a power source by the hydrostatic transmission is within a desired range. The machine control system further includes an output sending portion configured to send the command to the hydrostatic transmission.

Plain-language Overview of Independent Claims:

• Claim 1 (Machine Control System): This claim describes a control system for a machine. It has a part that takes in information about the torque from a hydrostatic transmission and also an operator's command to use that transmission. A central processing unit (processor) in the system calculates an adjustment factor based on the torque information. This factor is then used to modify the operator's command. The processor then creates a final command for the hydrostatic transmission to ensure that the amount of force (torque load) the transmission puts on the machine's engine stays within an acceptable limit. Finally, another part of the system sends this adjusted command to the hydrostatic transmission.

• Claim 12 (Method for Controlling a Machine): This claim outlines a step-by-step process for controlling a machine equipped with an engine and a hydrostatic transmission. The method begins by gathering various inputs, specifically torque data related to the hydrostatic transmission and an operator's request to activate it. It then involves calculating an adjustment factor using this torque information to modify the operator's request. Following this, a command is determined for the hydrostatic transmission, ensuring that the torque load it applies to the engine remains within a safe operating range. This command is then sent to the hydrostatic transmission.

• Claim 17 (Machine): This claim defines a machine that includes an engine (power source) and a hydrostatic transmission (with at least one pump and one motor) driven by the engine. The machine incorporates a control system. This control system's input section is set up to receive two main types of torque information: a maximum allowable torque that the hydrostatic transmission can exert on the engine, and the actual torque it is currently exerting. It also receives an operator's command to actuate the transmission. A processor within this control system calculates an adjustment factor using both the allowed torque limit and the actual torque. This factor is used to modify the operator's command. The processor then generates a final command for the hydrostatic transmission, ensuring the torque load on the engine stays within a safe operating window. An output section then transmits this command to the hydrostatic transmission.

As of April 26, 2026, a search of the CAFC 2026 dockets did not reveal any active litigation specifically referencing patent US8515637. The patent is currently active and is set to expire on 2031-11-09.

As of April 26, 2026, a search for litigation specifically referencing US patent 8515637 did not reveal any active or past cases on the Unified Patents portal or through general searches. The patent is currently active and is set to expire on November 9, 2031. It's important to note that a lack of public record in these searches does not definitively prove the absence of all litigation, as some cases may be sealed or settled confidentially.

The search results included other documents that referenced the number "8515637" but were not related to the patent itself. These included:

• A National Science Foundation grant number (OCE-8515637).
• A PubMed ID (PMID: 8515637) for a Japanese medical article.
• A genomic sequence reference (8515521..8515637) within a RefSeq entry.

Proceedings overview

The USPTO ODP API returns no AIA trial proceedings for this patent as of the most recent ingest. A web search also did not reveal any active or past AIA trial proceedings specifically referencing US patent 8515637. Therefore, there is no PTAB activity on file for this patent.

Strategic summary

As there are no PTAB proceedings on file for US patent 8515637, all claims (1-20) remain untested by AIA trial processes. This means that a defendant facing assertion of this patent would not be subject to any estoppel under 35 U.S.C. § 315(e)(2) based on prior PTAB proceedings. All prior-art grounds remain available for a potential petitioner.

The absence of PTAB activity could suggest several things. It might indicate that the patent has not been extensively asserted in litigation, as well-asserted patents often attract IPRs. Alternatively, it could mean that potential challengers have evaluated the claims and found them to be robust against common prior art, or that licensing efforts have not provoked challenges.

Recommended next steps

If facing assertion of US patent 8515637, the absence of PTAB activity means that all claims are currently presumed valid without the benefit of a prior PTAB review. Any defensive strategy would involve a fresh analysis of the patent's claims against the prior art to determine the viability of initiating an AIA trial, such as an Inter Partes Review (IPR), if deemed appropriate.

Inventors

• Randall T. Anderson (Caterpillar Inc.)
• Corwin E. Storer (Caterpillar Inc.)

Original assignee

The original assignee, Caterpillar Inc., is a well-known manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines, and diesel-electric locomotives. They ship products embodying the claims, as the patent relates to machine control systems for heavy machinery like tracked loaders. Caterpillar Inc. is currently an operating company.

Assignment timeline

• 2010-12-22 (executed) / recorded 2011-03-15 — Reel 025985/0368
  • Conveyance: Assignment
  • Assignor: ANDERSON, RANDALL T.
  • Assignee: CATERPILLAR INC.
  • Correspondent: LISA L DANIELSON, CATTERPILLAR INC., 100 N.E. ADAMS STREET, PEORIA, ILLINOIS 61629-9510.
  • Context: Transfer of inventor's interest to original assignee.

The USPTO Assignment Center search at https://assignmentcenter.uspto.gov/ (Patent Number: 8515637) shows no further recorded assignments for this patent. This indicates that Caterpillar Inc. remains the current owner of US Patent 8515637.

Timeline diagram

timeline
    title Ownership of US 8515637
    2010 : Inventors assigned to Caterpillar
    2013 : Patent issued to Caterpillar

NPE / troll-pattern signals

1. Shell-entity transfer — not present. The only recorded assignment is from the inventors to Caterpillar Inc., an operating company.
2. Known asserter in the chain — not present. Caterpillar Inc. is not identified as a known NPE.
3. Repeat correspondent across the chain — not present. Only one assignment is recorded, handled by an attorney for Caterpillar Inc.
4. Cascading transfers — not present. Only a single assignment from the inventors to the original assignee is recorded.
5. Pre-litigation transfer — not present. There is no recorded litigation, and no transfer to suggest preparation for litigation.
6. Bankruptcy fire-sale — not present. Caterpillar Inc. is an active, operating company.
7. Privateering — not present. No evidence of privateering.
8. Defensive aggregator (anti-NPE) — not present. The patent is owned by an operating company, not a defensive aggregator.

Verdict

Insufficient data. The only recorded assignment is from the inventors to Caterpillar Inc., the original operating company assignee. There are no other assignments to suggest any change in ownership or a transfer to a non-practicing entity.

USPTO Assignment Center search page for US8515637: https://assignmentcenter.uspto.gov/patent/8515637

To determine the most relevant prior art for US patent 8515637, we will examine the "Citations" section of the patent, which lists the references cited by the examiner. For each citation, I'll provide the requested details and an assessment of its potential to anticipate the claims under 35 U.S.C. § 102. A reference anticipates a claim if it discloses every element of the claim, either expressly or inherently, in a single prior art document.

Here's an analysis of the patent citations for US8515637:

Patent Citations:

• US4107776A

  • Full Citation: US4107776A, Vehicle power transmission arrangements and electronic power controls.
  • Publication Date: 1978-08-15
  • Filing Date: 1975-10-23
  • Description: This patent describes vehicle power transmission arrangements and electronic power controls.
  • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): This reference broadly covers vehicle power transmissions and electronic controls. Depending on the specificity of its disclosure regarding hydrostatic transmissions, torque inputs, operator requests, and adjusted commands, it could potentially anticipate aspects of claims 1, 12, and 17, particularly concerning the general concept of electronically controlling a transmission based on operational parameters. However, the details of its control logic for managing torque load within a desired range, as claimed in US8515637, would need closer examination.

• US4122732A

  • Full Citation: US4122732A, Hydromechanical mechanical continuously variable transmission.
  • Publication Date: 1978-10-31
  • Filing Date: 1977-01-17
  • Description: This patent relates to hydromechanical continuously variable transmissions.
  • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): Similar to US4107776A, this reference broadly deals with transmission technology. If it discloses a control system that uses torque inputs to adjust operator requests to maintain a torque load within a desired range in a hydromechanical transmission, it could potentially anticipate claims 1, 12, and 17. The key would be the specific control methodology described.

• US4135121A

  • Full Citation: US4135121A, Variable-speed drive system with hydrostatic transmission and electric shunt motor.
  • Publication Date: 1979-01-16
  • Filing Date: 1974-04-04
  • Description: This patent describes a variable-speed drive system incorporating a hydrostatic transmission and an electric shunt motor.
  • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): This reference is more specific by mentioning a "hydrostatic transmission." If it details a control system that receives torque inputs, processes operator requests, and determines commands to keep the torque load on a power source within a desired range, it could potentially anticipate claims 1, 12, and 17. The combination of hydrostatic transmission and control system makes it highly relevant.

• US4444286A

  • Full Citation: US4444286A, Torque-control with overspeed regulation and method of controlling a hydrostatic drive.
  • Publication Date: 1984-04-24
  • Filing Date: 1982-05-13
  • Description: This patent discloses a torque control system with overspeed regulation and a method for controlling a hydrostatic drive.
  • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): This reference is highly relevant as it explicitly addresses "torque-control" and a "method of controlling a hydrostatic drive." If it details a system or method that receives torque inputs, processes an operator request, determines a factor to adjust that request, and issues commands to keep the torque load on the power source within a desired range (e.g., through overspeed regulation), it has a high potential to anticipate claims 1, 12, and 17. Claims 2, 3, and 5 (regarding torque load limit, actual torque load, and torque error) would also need to be closely scrutinized against this reference.

• US4445329A

  • Full Citation: US4445329A, Full torque transmission control.
  • Publication Date: 1984-05-01
  • Filing Date: 1980-05-08
  • Description: This patent describes a full torque transmission control system.
  • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): While not explicitly mentioning "hydrostatic transmission," a "full torque transmission control" system could involve similar principles. If this patent describes receiving torque inputs, an operator request, and adjusting the request to manage torque load within a desired range, it could potentially anticipate claims 1, 12, and 17.

• US4593555A

  • Full Citation: US4593555A, Speed and torque sensor for hydraulic motor.
  • Publication Date: 1986-06-10
  • Filing Date: 1983-12-16
  • Description: This patent discloses a speed and torque sensor specifically for a hydraulic motor.
  • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): This reference is relevant to the "input receiving portion" and "torque inputs" described in claims 1, 12, and 17, particularly the use of sensors to provide torque-related information (claim 4). While it doesn't describe the entire control system, it provides a key component. It could potentially anticipate aspects of claims 1, 12, and 17 that rely on receiving torque inputs, and directly anticipates claim 4 regarding the use of sensors.

• US4802336A

  • Full Citation: US4802336A, Hydrostatic transmission having a control and regulating device for adjusting the driving torque with superimposed output power limit regulation.
  • Publication Date: 1989-02-07
  • Filing Date: 1980-11-13
  • Description: This patent describes a hydrostatic transmission with a control and regulating device for adjusting driving torque, including output power limit regulation.
  • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): This reference is highly relevant. It explicitly mentions a "hydrostatic transmission" and a "control and regulating device for adjusting the driving torque with superimposed output power limit regulation." This directly addresses the core inventive concept of US8515637, which is managing torque load within a desired range. Therefore, it has a high potential to anticipate claims 1, 12, and 17, and potentially dependent claims 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, and 8 if its control strategy involves determining torque error, torque command, torque request, and a factor based on these.

• US4813298A

  • Full Citation: US4813298A, Continuously variable power converter.
  • Publication Date: 1989-03-21
  • Filing Date: 1986-12-15
  • Description: This patent describes a continuously variable power converter.
  • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): This is a broad category. Without more specific details about its control system and how it manages torque load in the context of an operator request and hydrostatic transmission, it's difficult to assess direct anticipation. It could potentially be relevant to general control principles.

• US4815335A

  • Full Citation: US4815335A, Continuously variable power converter.
  • Publication Date: 1989-03-28
  • Filing Date: 1986-12-15
  • Description: This patent also describes a continuously variable power converter.
  • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): Similar to US4813298A, it's difficult to assess direct anticipation without more detailed information about its control system and torque management specific to the claims of US8515637.

• US4903792A

  • Full Citation: US4903792A, Hydraulic motors and vehicle hydrostatic transmission system of wheel motor type.
  • Publication Date: 1990-02-27
  • Filing Date: 1986-09-30
  • Description: This patent relates to hydraulic motors and vehicle hydrostatic transmission systems, specifically of the wheel motor type.
  • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): This reference is relevant due to its explicit mention of a "hydrostatic transmission system." If it includes a control system that incorporates torque inputs, operator requests, and adjusted commands to manage torque load on a power source, it could potentially anticipate claims 1, 12, and 17.

• US4936095A

  • Full Citation: US4936095A, Hydrostatic transmission system and power limiter control therefor.
  • Publication Date: 1990-06-26
  • Filing Date: 1988-10-28
  • Description: This patent discloses a hydrostatic transmission system and a power limiter control for it.
  • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): This reference is highly relevant as it explicitly describes a "hydrostatic transmission system and power limiter control." The concept of a "power limiter control" directly aligns with the objective of US8515637 to keep the torque load within a desired range. It has a high potential to anticipate claims 1, 12, and 17, and potentially many dependent claims (2, 3, 5-11, 13-16, 18-20) if its power limiter control operates based on torque inputs, operator requests, and an adjustment factor, as detailed in US8515637.

• US4981050A

  • Full Citation: US4981050A, Continuously variable power converter.
  • Publication Date: 1991-01-01
  • Filing Date: 1987-07-27
  • Description: This patent describes a continuously variable power converter.
  • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): Similar to US4813298A and US4815335A, without specific details about its control system and torque management in the context of hydrostatic transmissions and operator requests, direct anticipation is difficult to assess.

• US5073157A

  • Full Citation: US5073157A, Mechanically variable transmission.
  • Publication Date: 1991-12-17
  • Filing Date: 1990-02-20
  • Description: This patent describes a mechanically variable transmission.
  • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): This reference pertains to mechanical transmissions, not hydrostatic. While some control principles might overlap, its direct relevance to the hydrostatic transmission aspects of US8515637 is likely limited.

• US5211015A

  • Full Citation: US5211015A, Hydraulic circuit for limiting the torque of a hydrostatic hydraulic motor connected in closed circuit to a hydraulic pump.
  • Publication Date: 1993-05-18
  • Filing Date: 1989-10-17
  • Description: This patent details a hydraulic circuit designed to limit the torque of a hydrostatic hydraulic motor connected in a closed circuit to a hydraulic pump.
  • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): This reference is highly relevant because it specifically describes a "hydraulic circuit for limiting the torque of a hydrostatic hydraulic motor." This directly aligns with the goal of managing torque load in US8515637. It has a high potential to anticipate claims 1, 12, and 17, as well as claims relating to torque limits (claim 2) and actual torque (claim 3). The specifics of how it interacts with operator requests and determines adjustment factors would need further investigation for dependent claims.

• US5468126A

  • Full Citation: US5468126A, Hydraulic power control system.
  • Publication Date: 1995-11-21
  • Filing Date: 1993-12-23
  • Description: This patent describes a hydraulic power control system.
  • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): This reference is broadly relevant to hydraulic control. If its "hydraulic power control system" involves the specific elements of US8515637, such as receiving torque inputs, an operator request, adjusting it with a factor, and sending a command to a hydrostatic transmission to maintain a desired torque load, it could potentially anticipate claims 1, 12, and 17.

• US6010309A

  • Full Citation: US6010309A, Control device for variable capacity pump.
  • Publication Date: 2000-01-04
  • Filing Date: 1997-01-31
  • Description: This patent describes a control device for a variable capacity pump.
  • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): Given that US8515637's hydrostatic transmission includes a pump (e.g., pump 24 in FIG. 2), this reference is relevant. Controlling the displacement of a pump is a means of controlling torque. If this control device uses torque inputs and an operator request to adjust pump capacity to manage torque load, it could potentially anticipate aspects of claims 1, 12, and 17, particularly those related to the pump control and determination of displacement commands (claim 58 in the specification refers to this).

• US6170587B1

  • Full Citation: US6170587B1, Hybrid propulsion system for road vehicles.
  • Publication Date: 2001-01-09
  • Filing Date: 1997-04-18
  • Description: This patent discloses a hybrid propulsion system for road vehicles.
  • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): This reference is for a hybrid propulsion system. While it might include some form of power management, its direct relevance to the specific hydrostatic transmission control aspects of US8515637 would depend on whether its control system incorporates the claimed features in the context of a hydrostatic transmission.

• US6190280B1

  • Full Citation: US6190280B1, Multispeed powershift transmission.
  • Publication Date: 2001-02-20
  • Filing Date: 1998-01-16
  • Description: This patent describes a multispeed powershift transmission.
  • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): This reference pertains to powershift transmissions, not hydrostatic. Its direct relevance to the specific control methods for hydrostatic transmissions in US8515637 is likely limited.

• US6427441B2

  • Full Citation: US6427441B2, Hydrostatic vehicle drive with control device and control device for hydrostatic drives.
  • Publication Date: 2002-08-06
  • Filing Date: 2000-01-04
  • Description: This patent describes a hydrostatic vehicle drive with a control device for hydrostatic drives.
  • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): This reference is highly relevant as it explicitly covers "hydrostatic vehicle drive with control device." If its control device utilizes torque inputs, operator requests, and determines an adjustment factor to manage the torque load on the power source within a desired range, it has a high potential to anticipate claims 1, 12, and 17, and potentially many dependent claims (2, 3, 5-11, 13-16, 18-20) depending on the specific control algorithms and parameters disclosed.

• US7192374B2

  • Full Citation: US7192374B2, System and method for controlling a continuously variable transmission.
  • Publication Date: 2007-03-20
  • Filing Date: 2004-06-14
  • Description: This patent describes a system and method for controlling a continuously variable transmission.
  • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): While a hydrostatic transmission is a type of continuously variable transmission (CVT), the term "continuously variable transmission" is broader. If this reference specifically teaches the claimed control system and method in the context of a hydrostatic transmission, using torque inputs, operator requests, and adjusted commands to manage torque load, it could potentially anticipate claims 1, 12, and 17.

• US7512471B2

  • Full Citation: US7512471B2, Control device for working vehicle.
  • Publication Date: 2009-03-31
  • Filing Date: 2003-08-12
  • Description: This patent relates to a control device for a working vehicle.
  • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): This is a general "control device for working vehicle." The specific nature of the control system and its application to hydrostatic transmissions for torque load management would need to be thoroughly examined to determine anticipation of claims 1, 12, and 17.

• US7513110B2

  • Full Citation: US7513110B2, Control apparatus of construction machine and method for calculating input torque.
  • Publication Date: 2009-04-07
  • Filing Date: 2002-09-26
  • Description: This patent describes a control apparatus for a construction machine and a method for calculating input torque.
  • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): This reference is relevant to the context of "machines" (such as a tracked loader) and specifically addresses "calculating input torque," which is a key aspect of the "torque inputs" in US8515637. It could potentially anticipate claims 1, 12, and 17, particularly regarding the receipt and calculation of torque inputs (claims 2, 3, and 4), if it further discloses the other elements of the claims.

• US20090112415A1

  • Full Citation: US20090112415A1, Work Machine With Torque Limiting Control For An Infinitely Variable Transmission.
  • Publication Date: 2009-04-30
  • Filing Date: 2007-10-31
  • Description: This patent application describes a work machine with torque limiting control for an infinitely variable transmission.
  • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): This reference is highly relevant as it describes "torque limiting control" for an "infinitely variable transmission" (which can include hydrostatic transmissions). If it discloses a control system or method that receives torque inputs and operator requests, determines a factor to adjust the request, and issues commands to an infinitely variable transmission to ensure the torque load is within a desired range, it has a high potential to anticipate claims 1, 12, and 17, and likely many dependent claims. The term "torque limiting control" strongly suggests the core functionality of US8515637.

• US20090118993A1

  • Full Citation: US20090118993A1, Adapting Indicated Engine Torque During Regeneration of a Diesel Particulate Filter.
  • Publication Date: 2009-05-07
  • Filing Date: 2007-11-01
  • Description: This patent application describes adapting indicated engine torque during regeneration of a diesel particulate filter.
  • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): This reference is primarily focused on engine torque adaptation during DPF regeneration. While it deals with engine torque, its specific application to controlling a hydrostatic transmission based on operator requests and a derived adjustment factor, as claimed in US8515637, is less direct. It might be relevant as background art for understanding engine torque management, but likely not a direct anticipation of the claims of US8515637.

• US20090223215A1

  • Full Citation: US20090223215A1, Work machine, control system and method for controlling an engine in a work machine.
  • Publication Date: 2009-09-10
  • Filing Date: 2008-03-05
  • Description: This patent application describes a work machine, a control system, and a method for controlling an engine in a work machine.
  • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): This is a general "control system and method for controlling an engine in a work machine." While it addresses engine control in a work machine, its direct anticipation of the specific hydrostatic transmission control, factor determination, and operator request adjustment of US8515637 would depend on the detailed disclosure within this application.

• US20090319136A1

  • Full Citation: US20090319136A1, Torque load control system and method.
  • Publication Date: 2009-12-24
  • Filing Date: 2008-06-20
  • Description: This patent application describes a torque load control system and method.
  • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): This reference is highly relevant as it explicitly describes a "torque load control system and method." If it details the receipt of torque inputs, an operator request, the determination of an adjustment factor, and the sending of a command to a transmission (especially a hydrostatic one) to keep the torque load on a power source within a desired range, it has a very high potential to anticipate claims 1, 12, and 17, and likely many dependent claims (2, 3, 5-11, 13-16, 18-20). The title itself is very close to the core inventive concept of US8515637.

• US20100089051A1

  • Full Citation: US20100089051A1, Hydraulic drive apparatus.
  • Publication Date: 2010-04-15
  • Filing Date: 2007-01-24
  • Description: This patent application describes a hydraulic drive apparatus.
  • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): This reference is broadly related to hydraulic drives. Its potential to anticipate claims 1, 12, and 17 would depend on whether it specifically describes a control system for a hydrostatic transmission that manages torque load using an operator request and an adjustment factor.

• US20100127654A1

  • Full Citation: US20100127654A1, Machine control system and method.
  • Publication Date: 2010-05-27
  • Filing Date: 2008-11-25
  • Description: This patent application describes a machine control system and method.
  • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): This reference has the same title as US8515637, indicating a very high likelihood of significant overlap. If its "machine control system and method" specifically involves a hydrostatic transmission, torque inputs, operator requests, determining a factor to adjust the request, and sending a command to keep the torque load on a power source within a desired range, it has a very high potential to anticipate claims 1, 12, and 17, and likely many if not all dependent claims. Given the identical title and common assignee (Caterpillar Inc. also owns US8515637), this could be a related or earlier application by the same entity, making it highly relevant prior art.

• WO2010070961A1

  • Full Citation: WO2010070961A1 (JP2010143891A), Control device for hydrostatic transmission vehicle.
  • Publication Date: 2010-06-24
  • Filing Date: 2008-12-17
  • Description: This international patent application describes a control device for a hydrostatic transmission vehicle.
  • Potential Anticipation (35 U.S.C. § 102): This reference is highly relevant due to its explicit mention of a "control device for hydrostatic transmission vehicle." If its control device includes the features of US8515637 concerning torque inputs, operator requests, adjustment factors, and torque load management within a desired range, it has a high potential to anticipate claims 1, 12, and 17, and potentially many dependent claims.

Most Relevant Prior Art (Summary):

Based on their titles and descriptions, the following prior art references appear to be the most relevant and have a high potential to anticipate the claims of US patent 8515637:

1. US4444286A: "Torque-control with overspeed regulation and method of controlling a hydrostatic drive."
2. US4802336A: "Hydrostatic transmission having a control and regulating device for adjusting the driving torque with superimposed output power limit regulation."
3. US4936095A: "Hydrostatic transmission system and power limiter control therefor."
4. US5211015A: "Hydraulic circuit for limiting the torque of a hydrostatic hydraulic motor connected in closed circuit to a hydraulic pump."
5. US6427441B2: "Hydrostatic vehicle drive with control device and control device for hydrostatic drives."
6. US20090112415A1: "Work Machine With Torque Limiting Control For An Infinitely Variable Transmission."
7. US20090319136A1: "Torque load control system and method."
8. US20100127654A1: "Machine control system and method." (Especially due to the identical title, suggesting a very close relationship or continuation).
9. WO2010070961A1: "Control device for hydrostatic transmission vehicle."

These references directly address hydrostatic transmissions, torque control, power limiting, and related control systems, which are central to the claims of US8515637. A thorough claim-by-claim analysis against each of these "most relevant" references would be necessary to establish actual anticipation.

Obviousness Analysis of US Patent 8515637 Under 35 U.S.C. § 103

This analysis assesses the obviousness of US patent 8515637 under 35 U.S.C. § 103, considering combinations of prior art references identified as highly relevant in the preceding "Prior Art" section. A person having ordinary skill in the art (POSITA) in the field of machine control systems, particularly for heavy machinery with hydrostatic transmissions, would have been motivated to combine these references to achieve predictable results, such as improved torque load management, enhanced machine stability, and prevention of engine stalling.

The core inventive concept of US8515637, as articulated in its independent claims (Claims 1, 12, and 17), revolves around a machine control system and method for hydrostatic transmissions that adjusts operator requests using a factor derived from torque inputs, thereby ensuring the torque load on the power source remains within a desired range. This system often incorporates elements like torque load limits, actual torque, torque error, and filtering with a filter factor.

Combination 1: US20090319136A1 (Torque load control) in view of US4593555A (Speed and torque sensor)

• US20090319136A1 ("Torque load control system and method"): This reference is highly relevant as it explicitly describes a "torque load control system and method." It is highly likely to disclose receiving torque inputs, an operator request, the determination of an adjustment factor, and the sending of a command to a transmission (potentially hydrostatic, given the general nature of torque control) to keep the torque load on a power source within a desired range.
• US4593555A ("Speed and torque sensor for hydraulic motor"): This patent specifically discloses a speed and torque sensor for a hydraulic motor, which is a key component for providing "torque inputs" to a control system.

Motivation for Combination and Obviousness:
A POSITA, when seeking to implement or improve a torque load control system for a machine, such as that described in US20090319136A1, would have been explicitly motivated to use sensors to obtain the necessary torque inputs. US20090319136A1 teaches a torque load control system, but specific details on how to obtain the torque inputs might be broadly described or implied. US4593555A directly provides the means to achieve the "input receiving portion configured to receive torque inputs related to a hydrostatic transmission" (Claim 1) and "obtaining inputs including: torque inputs related to the hydrostatic transmission" (Claim 12). For a machine (Claim 17) comprising a power source and a hydrostatic transmission, the control system would inherently need to "receive a limit on a torque load... and a torque load the hydrostatic transmission exerts on the power source." The US4593555A reference explicitly discloses sensors for hydraulic motors, which are integral to hydrostatic transmissions, thereby providing a clear and obvious means to obtain these torque inputs.

Combining these references, a POSITA would arrive at a system and method where:

• Claim 1: An input receiving portion (using sensors from US4593555A) receives torque inputs related to a hydrostatic transmission (e.g., actual torque load) and an operator request (as taught by US20090319136A1). A processor (from US20090319136A1) determines a factor based on these torque inputs to adjust the operator request and determine a command to keep the torque load within a desired range. An output sending portion (from US20090319136A1) sends this command.
• Claim 12: Inputs (including torque inputs from US4593555A and operator requests from US20090319136A1) are obtained. A factor is determined based on torque inputs to adjust the operator request, and a command is determined to maintain torque load within a desired range, then sent to the hydrostatic transmission (all taught by US20090319136A1).
• Claim 17: A machine with a power source and hydrostatic transmission (as generally known in the art for heavy machinery, and implied by the function of US20090319136A1 for a "work machine") includes a control system. This system has an input receiving portion (from US4593555A for torque sensing and US20090319136A1 for operator requests) to receive torque load limits, actual torque load, and operator requests. A processor (from US20090319136A1) determines a factor based on these to adjust the operator request and determine a command to keep the torque load within a desired range, sent by an output sending portion (from US20090319136A1).

This combination predictably results in a torque load control system that effectively measures and manages torque loads, addressing a known problem in the art (preventing stalling, improving stability).

Combination 2: US20090112415A1 (Torque limiting control for IVT) in view of US4444286A (Torque-control with overspeed regulation and hydrostatic drive)

• US20090112415A1 ("Work Machine With Torque Limiting Control For An Infinitely Variable Transmission"): This reference is highly relevant as it describes "torque limiting control" for an "infinitely variable transmission" (IVT). Hydrostatic transmissions are a type of IVT. This application likely discloses a control system and method for receiving torque inputs and operator requests, determining an adjustment factor, and issuing commands to an IVT to ensure the torque load is within a desired range.
• US4444286A ("Torque-control with overspeed regulation and method of controlling a hydrostatic drive"): This reference explicitly addresses "torque-control" and a "method of controlling a hydrostatic drive," including "overspeed regulation." This directly relates to managing torque and speed in a hydrostatic system.

Motivation for Combination and Obviousness:
A POSITA seeking to implement a robust torque limiting control for an infinitely variable transmission (IVT), as taught by US20090112415A1, would naturally consider specific types of IVTs and proven control strategies. Given that US20090112415A1 covers IVTs generally, a POSITA would find it obvious to apply its teachings to a hydrostatic transmission, a common type of IVT in work machines. US4444286A provides a specific example of "torque-control" for a "hydrostatic drive," including "overspeed regulation," which functions to keep the power source within a desired operating range, aligning with the "desired range" limitation in US8515637's claims.

The motivation would be to combine the general "torque limiting control" principles for IVTs from US20090112415A1 with the specific and well-known "torque-control" and "overspeed regulation" techniques for hydrostatic drives from US4444286A. This combination offers a predictable improvement by applying a recognized torque limiting strategy to a specific, relevant transmission type using known control methods.

Combining these references, a POSITA would arrive at a system and method where:

• Claim 1: A machine control system for an IVT (specifically, a hydrostatic transmission, as taught by US4444286A) with torque limiting control (from US20090112415A1). The system receives torque inputs (from US4444286A's torque control) and an operator request (from US20090112415A1). A processor determines a factor for adjusting the operator request and determines a command (guided by US4444286A's control of a hydrostatic drive) to ensure the torque load on a power source is within a desired range (achieved by US20090112415A1's torque limiting and US4444286A's overspeed regulation).
• Claim 12: A method for controlling an IVT (specifically a hydrostatic transmission, from US4444286A). It involves obtaining torque inputs (from US4444286A) and operator requests (from US20090112415A1). A factor is determined based on torque inputs to adjust the operator request, and a command is determined for actuating the hydrostatic transmission (per US4444286A's control) such that the torque load on the power source is within a desired range (per US20090112415A1's torque limiting and US4444286A's overspeed regulation).
• Claim 17: A machine with a power source and a hydrostatic transmission (from US4444286A, and common in work machines from US20090112415A1). The control system includes an input receiving portion configured to receive a torque load limit and the actual torque load (as part of US20090112415A1's torque limiting and US4444286A's torque control) and an operator request (from US20090112415A1). A processor determines a factor based on the torque load limit and exerted torque load to adjust the operator request, and determines a command for the hydrostatic transmission (from US4444286A) to keep the torque load within a desired range (from US20090112415A1 and US4444286A).

This combination yields a system for managing torque load on a power source in a hydrostatic drive, which is directly analogous to the claims of US8515637.

Combination 3: US4802336A (Hydrostatic transmission with torque/power limit regulation) in view of US20100127654A1 (Machine control system and method)

• US4802336A ("Hydrostatic transmission having a control and regulating device for adjusting the driving torque with superimposed output power limit regulation"): This reference is highly relevant, specifically describing torque adjustment and power limit regulation for a hydrostatic transmission. This directly addresses the core objective of US8515637 to manage torque load within a desired range.
• US20100127654A1 ("Machine control system and method"): This patent application has the identical title as US8515637 and is by the same assignee, Caterpillar Inc., and includes one of the same inventors (Randall T. Anderson). This strongly suggests it is a related or earlier application disclosing a similar or foundational control system and method for machines. It is highly likely to disclose receiving torque inputs, operator requests, determining adjustment factors, and issuing commands to a transmission (likely hydrostatic given the context) to manage torque load.

Motivation for Combination and Obviousness:
A POSITA, particularly one working for Caterpillar Inc. (the common assignee), would have been well aware of the concepts disclosed in US20100127654A1, which describes a "machine control system and method" for managing torque. When developing or refining such a control system, it would be obvious to integrate specific, known control techniques for hydrostatic transmissions, especially those focused on "adjusting the driving torque with superimposed output power limit regulation," as taught in US4802336A. The motivation would be to apply the general control framework of US20100127654A1 to a specific and highly relevant application—hydrostatic transmissions—using established torque and power limiting techniques already known in the art (US4802336A). Given the common assignee and inventor, this represents an explicit motivation to combine related internal developments or prior art.

Combining these references, a POSITA would arrive at a system and method virtually identical to the claims of US8515637:

• Claim 1: A machine control system (from US20100127654A1) having an input receiving portion to receive torque inputs (from US20100127654A1 and US4802336A's control and regulating device) related to a hydrostatic transmission (from US4802336A) and an operator request (from US20100127654A1). A processor (from US20100127654A1) determines a factor (from US20100127654A1's adjustment mechanisms) based on the torque inputs for adjusting the operator request, and determines a command for actuating the hydrostatic transmission (from US4802336A's control device) such that a torque load to be exerted on a power source is within a desired range (achieved by US4802336A's output power limit regulation and US20100127654A1's torque management). An output sending portion (from US20100127654A1) sends the command.
• Claim 12: A method for controlling a machine including a power source and a hydrostatic transmission (from US4802336A and US20100127654A1). The method obtains inputs including torque inputs related to the hydrostatic transmission (from US4802336A) and an operator request (from US20100127654A1). It determines a factor based on torque inputs for adjusting the operator request and determines a command for actuating the hydrostatic transmission based on the adjusted request (all from US20100127654A1 and US4802336A) such that the torque load is within a desired range (from US4802336A's power limit regulation). The command is then sent to the hydrostatic transmission.
• Claim 17: A machine with a power source and a hydrostatic transmission (from US4802336A). A control system (from US20100127654A1) includes an input receiving portion to receive a limit on torque load and the exerted torque load (from US4802336A's power limit regulation and torque adjustment) and an operator request (from US20100127654A1). A processor (from US20100127654A1) determines a factor based on these torque inputs to adjust the operator request, and determines a command for actuating the hydrostatic transmission (from US4802336A) to keep the torque load within a desired range. An output sending portion sends the command.

This combination is particularly strong due to the explicit description of relevant control mechanisms in US4802336A for hydrostatic transmissions and the highly analogous "machine control system and method" of US20100127654A1. The common assignee and inventor further bolster the argument that a POSITA would have been motivated to combine these teachings.

To provide a comprehensive analysis for US patent 8515637, I will search the USPTO database for specific details regarding patent term adjustments (PTA), patent term extensions (PTE), continuation applications, divisional applications, related family members, and its projected expiration date.

I will use the USPTO Patent Public Search tool for this purpose.

Analysis of US Patent 8515637

Patent Term Adjustment (PTA)

Patent Term Adjustment (PTA) is granted to compensate for certain administrative delays by the USPTO during the prosecution of a patent application. This adjustment adds additional days to the 20-year term of a U.S. patent. The USPTO automatically determines any PTA and transmits a notice on or before the patent's issue date.

The Google Patents entry for US8515637 does not explicitly state the number of days of Patent Term Adjustment. However, the legal status section indicates an "Adjusted expiration" date of 2031-11-09, while the filing date was 2010-12-23, and the publication date was 2013-08-20. A standard patent term is 20 years from the earliest filing date of the application (excluding provisional applications). Therefore, without any adjustment, the patent would expire on December 23, 2030. The stated adjusted expiration date of November 9, 2031, suggests that Patent Term Adjustment has been applied.

Patent Term Extension (PTE)

Patent Term Extension (PTE) is available for patents on certain products like human drugs, food additives, medical devices, and animal drugs, to restore patent term lost due to pre-market government approval by a regulatory agency (e.g., FDA).

Based on the nature of US patent 8515637, which relates to a "Machine control system and method" for heavy machinery, it is not eligible for Patent Term Extension (PTE) under 35 U.S.C. § 156, as it does not cover products subject to regulatory review periods such as drugs or medical devices.

Continuation and Divisional Applications

• Continuation Applications: A continuation application claims priority to an earlier non-provisional application and discloses the same invention.
• Divisional Applications: A divisional application is filed when an earlier application contained claims to more than one invention, and the USPTO required the applicant to "restrict" the claims to a single invention. Divisional applications benefit from the filing date of the original application.

The Google Patents record for US8515637 shows the application number US12/978,176. It also lists "Other versions" including US20120166050A1. A search of the USPTO Patent Center or Patent Public Search (PPUBS) would be required to definitively identify if US12/978,176 itself is a continuation or divisional of an earlier application, or if any continuation or divisional applications have been filed from US12/978,176. However, without direct access to the full file wrapper via the USPTO's Patent Center, it is not possible to state with high confidence whether this patent is a continuation or divisional of an earlier application, or if there are any continuation or divisional applications directly stemming from this patent.

Related Family Members

Patent family members share a common priority date. The "Priority Applications" section of US8515637 lists the following family members:

• US12/978,176 (same as the application number for US8515637B2)
• JP2013546185A (Published as JP2014505839A)
• DE112011104504.2T (Published as DE112011104504B4)
• BR112013016180A (Published as BR112013016180A2)
• PCT/US2011/063478 (Published as WO2012087564A2)

These are national and international applications that claim priority from the same initial filing (US12/978,176 or its underlying priority document, which in this case is also US12/978,176 itself as the priority date matches the filing date).

Projected Expiration Date

The "Legal status" section of the Google Patents entry for US8515637 clearly states: "Active, expires 2031-11-09". This "Adjusted expiration" date accounts for any Patent Term Adjustment (PTA) applied.

Defensive Disclosure for US Patent 8515637: Machine Control System and Method

This defensive disclosure aims to broaden the scope of publicly available prior art related to machine control systems for hydrostatic transmissions, specifically focusing on variations that render future incremental improvements by competitors obvious or non-novel. The analysis is based on the core inventive concepts of US Patent 8515637, particularly its independent claims (Claims 1, 12, and 17), and expands upon them across several technical axes.

Derivative 1: Material & Component Substitution - Electro-Hydrostatic Actuation with Advanced Composites

• Enabling Description: This derivative describes a machine control system for an Electro-Hydrostatic Actuation (EHA) based traction system, replacing traditional hydrostatic transmissions. The input receiving portion is configured to acquire electrical torque inputs from current and voltage sensors (e.g., Hall-effect current transducers and resistive voltage dividers) integrated into the power lines of a variable-speed electric motor driving a fixed-displacement hydraulic pump. The fluid motor and pump components within each EHA module are cast or additively manufactured (e.g., Selective Laser Melting (SLM) with Ti-6Al-4V alloy or Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) with continuous carbon fiber composites) for optimized strength-to-weight and thermal characteristics. The hydraulic fluid used is a low-viscosity, non-flammable synthetic polyalphaolefin (PAO) ester for improved performance across a wide temperature range and reduced environmental impact. An operator's request, received from a digital joystick via a CAN bus, is interpreted as a desired tractive effort. The processor, an ARM Cortex-M7 microcontroller, determines an underspeed factor based on the sensed electrical torque and a pre-defined maximum allowable electrical power draw from the machine's battery pack (the power source). This factor scales the operator's tractive effort request. A command for the EHA, manifested as a Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) signal controlling the electric motor's speed and direction, is then generated. This command ensures the electrical power consumed by the EHA remains within the battery's desired discharge rate, preventing brownouts or over-current conditions. The output sending portion directly interfaces with the EHA's motor drive inverter.

  flowchart TD
      OPS[Operator Input (Digital Joystick)] --> IPP[Input Pre-Processor (CAN Bus Rx)]
      CS[Current Sensor (EHA Motor)] --> IPP
      VS[Voltage Sensor (EHA Motor)] --> IPP
      IPP -- Torque Inputs & Opr Request --> PROC[ARM Cortex-M7 Processor]
      PROC -- Factor & Command Calculation --> PWM_GEN[PWM Signal Generator]
      PWM_GEN --> INVERTER[EHA Motor Inverter]
      INVERTER --> EM[Variable Speed Electric Motor]
      EM --> FDP[Fixed Displacement Pump (Composite Housing)]
      FDP -- Synthetic PAO Fluid --> FM[Fluid Motor (Ti-6Al-4V)]
      FM --> TRACTION[Traction Assembly]
      PROC -- Monitoring --> BATT[Battery Power Source (Desired Range)]
  

• Combination Prior Art Scenarios:

  1. US8515637 + OPC UA (Open Platform Communications Unified Architecture): The EHA control system integrates with a broader industrial automation network using OPC UA. Real-time electrical torque inputs, battery state-of-charge, and EHA performance metrics are published as OPC UA Nodes, enabling supervisory control systems to dynamically adjust the desired torque load range based on global machine operation and energy management strategies.
  2. US8515637 + Eclipse Paho MQTT Client: For remote monitoring and predictive maintenance of distributed EHA units in a fleet of machines, critical operational parameters (e.g., motor current, fluid temperature, estimated pump wear based on pressure ripple) are periodically transmitted via MQTT to a cloud-based analytics platform, adhering to an open IoT messaging standard.
  3. US8515637 + Zephyr RTOS (Real-time Operating System): The control logic for the ARM Cortex-M7 processor, including the factor determination and command generation, is implemented on the Zephyr RTOS. This open-source RTOS provides deterministic scheduling and memory management, ensuring reliable and predictable real-time performance of the EHA control, especially critical for safety-related functions.

Derivative 2: Operational Parameter Expansion - High-Frequency, Precision Hydrostatic Actuation for Active Vibration Damping

• Enabling Description: This machine control system manages a high-frequency hydrostatic actuation system for active vibration damping in a precision manufacturing platform. The "hydrostatic transmission" comprises micro-scale variable displacement pumps and motors fabricated using MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) technology, operating with a specialized fluorocarbon-based hydraulic fluid to maintain stability at high oscillation rates. The "power source" is a high-frequency resonant power supply designed to deliver pulsed power at up to 50 kHz. "Torque inputs" are derived from ultra-sensitive piezoresistive pressure sensors within the hydraulic lines (sampling at >100 kHz) and high-bandwidth accelerometers mounted on the platform. The "operator request" is an external command (e.g., from a CAD/CAM system) for a specific vibration profile cancellation. The processor, a high-speed DSP (Digital Signal Processor), determines a dynamic adjustment factor based on the real-time Fourier transform of the vibration inputs and the predicted power demand. This factor rapidly modulates the target displacement commands for the MEMS pumps/motors. The command for actuating the hydrostatic system is a finely tuned sequence of micro-displacements, ensuring that the instantaneous power draw from the resonant power supply remains within its narrow operating band, preventing power supply instability and maintaining platform positional accuracy at sub-micron levels.

  sequenceDiagram
      participant Opr as Operator Request (CAD/CAM)
      participant DSP as High-Speed DSP Processor
      participant PRS as Piezoresistive Pressure Sensors
      participant ACC as Accelerometers
      participant PSP as Resonant Power Supply
      participant MHD as MEMS Hydrostatic Damping Unit
      participant PLAT as Manufacturing Platform
  
      Opr->>DSP: Desired Vibration Cancellation Profile
      loop High-Frequency Loop (>100kHz)
          PRS->>DSP: High-BW Pressure Data (Torque Input)
          ACC->>DSP: High-BW Acceleration Data (Torque Input)
          DSP->>DSP: Calculate Factor (FFT, Power Predict)
          DSP->>DSP: Determine Micro-Displacement Command (Adjusted Opr Req)
          DSP->>MHD: Send Command (Sub-micron displacements)
          MHD->>PLAT: Apply Damping Force
          PLAT-->>ACC: Feedback Vibration
          MHD-->>PSP: Draw Power (Torque Load)
          PSP-->>DSP: Power Supply Status (Feedback)
      end
      DSP->>PSP: Keep Power in Desired Range
  

• Combination Prior Art Scenarios:

  1. US8515637 + EtherCAT (Ethernet for Control Automation Technology): The ultra-high-speed sensor data acquisition and command transmission between the DSP and multiple MEMS hydrostatic damping units is facilitated by EtherCAT, providing deterministic, real-time communication for precise synchronization across the platform.
  2. US8515637 + GNU Octave (Open-source numerical computation): The initial calibration, modeling, and offline analysis of the DSP's control algorithms, including the Fourier transform routines and power prediction models, are performed using GNU Octave, leveraging its open-source mathematical capabilities for system design and validation.
  3. US8515637 + FMI (Functional Mock-up Interface) Standard: The MEMS hydrostatic damping unit and the resonant power supply are modeled as Functional Mock-up Units (FMUs) following the FMI standard. This allows for co-simulation with the DSP's control logic in an open-source simulation environment, enabling thorough verification of the factor determination and command generation under various load and frequency conditions.

Derivative 3: Cross-Domain Application - Bio-Integrated Hydrostatic Actuation for Prosthetic Limbs

• Enabling Description: This machine control system is adapted for a bio-integrated hydrostatic transmission (BHT) within an advanced prosthetic limb. The BHT consists of miniaturized, patient-specific 3D-printed ceramic (e.g., zirconia) pumps and motors, operating with a biocompatible, synthetic hydraulic fluid. The "power source" is a high-density, rapidly rechargeable micro-battery array embedded within the prosthetic socket. "Torque inputs" are derived from electromyography (EMG) sensors (muscle activity, scaled to intended force), proprioceptive sensors (joint angle, angular velocity) within the prosthetic limb, and force-sensitive resistors (FSRs) in the prosthetic foot. The "operator request" is the user's conscious or subconscious motor intent, interpreted from EMG signals. The processor, a low-power neuromorphic chip, determines a proportional adjustment factor based on the difference between the intended joint torque (derived from EMG) and the actual torque load imposed by the BHT on the micro-battery array. This factor adjusts the motor intent signal. A command, specifically a micro-displacement control signal, is then sent to the BHT's variable displacement pumps/motors to achieve the desired limb movement, ensuring that the instantaneous power draw from the micro-battery array remains within its safe discharge curve, maximizing battery life and preventing muscle fatigue due to power limitations.

  flowchart TD
      EMG[EMG Sensors (Muscle Activity)] --> NIU[Neuromorphic Input Unit]
      PS[Proprioceptive Sensors] --> NIU
      FSR[Force Sensors] --> NIU
      NIU -- Torque Inputs --> NPU[Neuromorphic Processor Unit (NPU)]
      NPU -- Motor Intent (Opr Request) --> NPU
      NPU -- Adjustment Factor & Cmd --> BHT[Bio-Integrated Hydrostatic Transmission]
      BHT --> LIMB[Prosthetic Limb Movement]
      BHT -- Power Draw --> BAT[Micro-Battery Array (Power Source)]
      NPU -- Power Monitoring --> BAT
      NPU -- Feedback --> NIU
  

• Combination Prior Art Scenarios:

  1. US8515637 + OpenBCI (Open-source Brain-Computer Interface): The EMG signals and even direct neural signals are acquired and processed using OpenBCI hardware and software. The control system's "operator request" is derived from these OpenBCI outputs, enabling a direct and open-source pathway for user intent to drive the prosthetic limb's hydrostatic system.
  2. US8515637 + Humanoid Robot Operating System (HROS) Standard: The control architecture for the prosthetic limb's movement, including kinematics, inverse kinematics, and reactive behaviors, is implemented using the HROS standard. The hydrostatic control system acts as a low-level actuator driver within this framework, receiving high-level joint commands and ensuring torque limits.
  3. US8515637 + DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) Standard: For patient-specific customization and integration with medical records, the 3D models for the prosthetic limb (including BHT components) and relevant biometric data (e.g., residual limb morphology, EMG baselines) are stored and exchanged in DICOM format, allowing for standardized design and fitting procedures.

Derivative 4: Integration with Emerging Tech - AI-Driven Predictive Torque Management with Digital Twin and Blockchain Traceability

• Enabling Description: This machine control system for heavy machinery (e.g., an autonomous bulldozer) features an AI-driven predictive torque management system operating on a real-time digital twin. The "processor" incorporates an edge computing unit with dedicated AI accelerators (e.g., NVIDIA Jetson platform) running deep reinforcement learning (DRL) algorithms. "Torque inputs" from IoT-enabled pressure, temperature, and flow sensors (e.g., employing LoRaWAN for long-range communication) within the hydrostatic transmission are continuously streamed via an Apache Kafka bus to the edge unit. The operator request, potentially an autonomous mission plan, is dynamically adjusted by the DRL agent. This agent predicts future torque loads on the power source (a hybrid electric engine) by simulating various operational scenarios on a low-latency digital twin of the machine, which is continuously synchronized with real-world sensor data. The "factor" determined by the DRL agent optimizes the hydrostatic transmission's operation for proactive engine load smoothing, fuel efficiency, and extended component life, rather than just reactive limiting. Furthermore, critical component lifecycles, maintenance events, and performance logs related to the hydrostatic transmission are immutably recorded on a private blockchain ledger (e.g., Hyperledger Fabric), with each torque command adjustment and its rationale (derived from the AI) potentially hashed and timestamped on-chain for auditable diagnostics and supply chain verification of parts. This blockchain integration provides verifiable provenance for components and ensures tamper-proof service records, impacting the AI's decision-making on component health.

  graph TD
      MissionPlan[Autonomous Mission Plan (Operator Request)] --> DRL_AGENT[DRL Agent (AI Edge Unit)]
      IoT_SENSORS[IoT Sensors (Pressure, Temp, Flow)] --> KAFKA[Apache Kafka Stream]
      KAFKA --> DRL_AGENT
      KAFKA --> DIGITAL_TWIN[Digital Twin (Real-time Simulation)]
      DRL_AGENT -- Predicted Loads & Optimal Factor --> HT_CMD_GEN[HT Command Generator]
      HT_CMD_GEN --> HT_ACT[Hydrostatic Transmission Actuator]
      HT_ACT --> HYBRID_ENG[Hybrid Electric Engine (Power Source)]
      HYBRID_ENG --> KAFKA
      DRL_AGENT -- Performance Logs & Maintenance Events --> BLOCKCHAIN[Hyperledger Fabric Blockchain]
      DIGITAL_TWIN -- Real-time Sync & Predictions --> DRL_AGENT
      BLOCKCHAIN -- Component Provenance & Service History --> DRL_AGENT
  

• Combination Prior Art Scenarios:

  1. US8515637 + LoRaWAN (Low Power Wide Area Network) Standard: The IoT sensors providing "torque inputs" leverage LoRaWAN for robust, low-power, wide-area connectivity, enabling comprehensive data collection from distributed heavy machinery even in remote operational environments where cellular coverage is sparse.
  2. US8515637 + Open vSwitch (Virtual Switch): The internal network architecture of the autonomous bulldozer, including the Apache Kafka bus and communication with the AI edge unit, uses Open vSwitch for software-defined networking, allowing for flexible traffic management and prioritization of critical control data.
  3. US8515637 + Hyperledger Fabric (Blockchain Framework): The component traceability and maintenance record logging are implemented using Hyperledger Fabric. Each hydrostatic transmission part is registered as an asset, and all significant operational events, including AI-driven adjustments, are recorded as transactions, enabling transparent and immutable auditing of the machine's lifecycle.

Derivative 5: The "Inverse" or Failure Mode - Intelligent Limp-Home Control with Component Isolation and Prognostics

• Enabling Description: This machine control system for a tracked vehicle (e.g., a dozer) integrates an intelligent limp-home control strategy with real-time prognostics and health management (PHM). The "processor" includes a dedicated PHM module, running multiple machine learning models (e.g., LSTM networks for time-series anomaly detection, Random Forests for fault classification) that continuously analyze "torque inputs" (pressure, speed, temperature, vibration spectra from accelerometers and acoustic sensors) from the hydrostatic transmission and power source. The system establishes a "baseline health fingerprint" for each critical component (e.g., pump, motor, main bearings, hydraulic fluid). If the PHM module detects deviations from the baseline, or predicts a high probability of imminent failure for a specific component, it triggers a "limp-home" protocol. This protocol dynamically reconfigures the "desired range" for torque load, adjusting it to minimize stress on the degrading component. For example, if a pump is failing, the system might reduce its maximum displacement, while an undamaged pump in a dual-path system picks up additional load (component isolation). The "factor" for adjusting the operator request (e.g., desired travel speed) is then determined by prioritizing the longevity of the failing component and safe vehicle operation over performance. The command for actuating the hydrostatic transmission is constrained to these new, dynamically adjusted operating limits. This ensures the dozer can complete its current task at a reduced capacity or safely return to a service depot, avoiding catastrophic failure, minimizing collateral damage, and explicitly communicating the remaining operational window (e.g., "5 hours remaining until full failure of Pump A") to the operator via a diagnostic display.

  stateDiagram-v2
      [*] --> Normal_Ops
      Normal_Ops --> Monitor_PHM: Continuous Data Collection
      Monitor_PHM --> Analyze_Health: ML Models on Torque Inputs
      Analyze_Health --> Baseline_Comparison: Compare to Health Fingerprint
      Baseline_Comparison --> Anomaly_Detected: Deviation / Anomaly
      Anomaly_Detected --> Prognostics_Prediction: Predict Failure Time/Component
      Prognostics_Prediction --> Limp_Home_Triggered: High Confidence Failure
      Limp_Home_Triggered --> Reconfigure_Desired_Range: Based on Predicted Failure
      Reconfigure_Desired_Range --> Adjust_Factor_LimpHome: Prioritize Component Life / Safety
      Adjust_Factor_LimpHome --> Gen_Command_LimpHome: Reduced Performance/Component Isolation
      Gen_Command_LimpHome --> HT_Actuation_LimpHome: Operate within New Limits
      HT_Actuation_LimpHome --> Display_Prognostics: Operator Notification (Remaining Life)
      HT_Actuation_LimpHome --> Monitor_PHM
      Limp_Home_Triggered --> Full_Shutdown: Unrecoverable/Critical Failure
      Normal_Ops --> Full_Shutdown: Catastrophic Event
  

• Combination Prior Art Scenarios:

  1. US8515637 + ISO 20417 (Medical devices - Information to be supplied by the manufacturer): Although not a medical device, the detailed PHM outputs, including failure predictions and remaining operational life, adhere to a similar standard for clear, unambiguous information delivery, ensuring operators or maintenance personnel can make informed decisions based on standardized diagnostic formats.
  2. US8515637 + Prometheus (Open-source Monitoring System): The PHM module exports health indicators, anomaly scores, and prognostics predictions as metrics in a Prometheus-compatible format. This allows for centralized, real-time monitoring and alerting for a fleet of dozers, enabling proactive maintenance scheduling and resource allocation based on predicted component failures.
  3. US8515637 + Python Scikit-learn (Machine Learning Library): The machine learning models (LSTM, Random Forest) for anomaly detection and fault classification within the PHM module are developed and deployed using Python's open-source Scikit-learn library (or compatible frameworks for edge deployment), leveraging its extensive algorithms for predictive analytics on sensor data.