U.S. PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE
Information Products Division |
U.S. Patent Classification System - Classification Definitions
as of June 30, 2000
Patents classified in a subclass may be accessed by either clicking on
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(definitions have been obtained from the
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Electronic Products Branch)
Class 180
MOTOR VEHICLES
Class Definition:
This class relates to the propulsion of land vehicles by a
motor carried on the vehicle and to the following subject
matter, which may be considered as incidental to such
propulsion:
1. The mounting of a motor on a land vehicle.
2. Transmission mechanism in connection with specific
vehicle structure. (See Lines With Other Classes and Within
This Class, B, below.)
3. Power steering-gear for land vehicles.
4. Power means for raising a frame or body relative to a
wheel or wheels.
5. Devices not of general application for utilizing the
power of the power plant of a land vehicle to drive other
machines, the specific structure of such machines not being
involved.
6. Controlling devices in connection with land vehicle
structure.
7. Gyroscopes in connection with land vehicle structure.
8. Safety devices involving a feature limited to use on
motor vehicles.
9. Motor Vehicles provided with wheel substitutes. This
includes vehicles with wheel substitutes even though no power
or driving means is claimed unless the vehicle claimed is
identified in the specific disclosure as only a nonmotor
vehicle. Further, this class takes fluid supported suction
effect and surface effect vehicles, including subcombinations
drawn to the fluid producing means even though no power or
driving means or specific vehicle structure is claimed or
disclosed.
LINES WITH OTHER CLASSES AND WITHIN THIS CLASS
The preceding class definition is subject to the following
exceptions:
A. This class is superior to the various motor classes, and
whenever a patent contains claims involving in any degree the
structure of the vehicle in connection with a power plant or
the location and arrangement of the motive-power plant
relative thereto it is placed in this class. The mere
mention of a vehicle broadly, or of such parts as are
necessarily involved in the definition of a vehicle, in a
claim which is in other respects drawn to the specific
construction of the power plant, does not cause such an
assignment, the classification being then based on the
power-plant structure, so that the patent is assigned to the
appropriate motor class.
B. Transmission mechanism for driving vehicle-wheels is
classified with other transmission mechanism elsewhere, even
when there is an inclusion in a claim for such structure of a
frame, body or boiler, an axle, and traction-wheels. In
general, however, inventions relating to vehicle structure
are classified in Class 180, although transmission mechanism
is included. Transmission-trains designed to drive the
road-wheels on opposite sides of a vehicle at the same speed
and when desired at different speeds or in different
directions or to drive the wheel on one side only are placed
in Class 180. Patents containing claims for vehicle-springs
in connection with transmission mechanism are placed in Class
180. Patents having two sets of claims, one relating to
vehicle structure of general application and the other to
transmission mechanism, are placed in this class.
Transmission mechanism for an occupant-propelled vehicle in
connection with vehicle structure is found elsewhere.
C. Self-propelled vehicles carrying or constituting a device
designed to perform a function not incidental to
transportation are classified in the class having such
devices when a functional manipulation or mounting of the
device or more structure than is necessary for connection to
the running gear is claimed. For example, a traction-engine
claimed in connection with a plow is placed elsewhere.
The term "steering wheel" used in the following definitions
means a road-wheel, the axis of which may be swung so as to
change the course of the vehicle; however, for an exception
to this practice see Subclass References to the Current
Class, below. By the term "normal wheel-base" is meant the
arrangement of the four wheels of a vehicle so that straight
lines joining the points of contact of the wheels with the
road form approximately a rectangle when the steering wheels
are in the straight-away position.
Vehicle structure designed for motor-vehicles, but not
involving features mentioned in the preceding definition,
will be found in Classes 280, Land Vehicles, 296, Land
Vehicles: Bodies and Tops, and 301, Land Vehicles: Wheels
and Axles.
LINE WITH CLASS 475 AND CLASS 74
See Class 475, Planetary Gear Transmission Systems or
Components, for a planetary gear transmission in a vehicle
drive train. The same line exists between Class 180 and Class
475 as exists between Class 180 and Class 74.
LINE WITH CLASS 477, CLASS 74, CLASS 180, AND CLASS 192
See Class 477,Interrelated Power Delivery Controls, Including
Engine Control, for interrelated control between an engine
and a transmission, clutch, or brake. Class 477 was formed
from patents in Classes 74 and 192 and so the same line
exists between Class 180 and Class 477 as exists between
Class 180 and Classes 74 and 192.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
252 (2) Note for an exception to the term "steering wheel" as
defined in the Glossary, below.
REFERENCES TO OTHER CLASSES
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, see Lines With Other
Classes and Within This Class, B, above.
105, Railway Rolling Stock, appropriate subclasses (e.g.,
subclass 215.1 ) for a motor vehicle which includes means
whereby it may operate in the manner of a vehicle of that
class (105).
172, Earth Working, subclass 3 for earth working apparatus
with automatic motive power control, subclasses 114+ for a
driven earth working tool mounted on a vehicle, specific
propelling means for the vehicle being claimed, and subclass
292 for earth working apparatus in which specific propelling
means are claimed. Also, see Lines With Other Classes and
Within This Class C, above.
173, Tool Driving or Impacting, subclasses 184+ for a tool
driving or impacting device combined with a vehicle support.
244, Aeronautics, appropriate subclasses (e.g., subclass 2,
17.17, 50) for a vehicle of that class which either is
combined with a land or water vehicle or else includes means
whereby it may operate in one or more respects (e.g.,
braking, steering, etc.) in the manner of a land or a water
vehicle.
280, Land Vehicles, (see Lines With Other Classes and Within
This Class, in reference to Vehicle Structure, above).
296, Land Vehicles: Bodies and Tops, (see Lines With Other
Classes and Within This Class, in reference to Vehicle
Structure, above).
301, Land Vehicles: Wheels and Axles, (see Lines With Other
Classes and Within This Class, in reference to Vehicle
Structure, above).
305, Wheel Substitutes for Land Vehicles, for wheel
substitutes, per se. Class 180 takes patents relating to a
vehicle, disclosed as a motor vehicle, where some vehicle
structure or a special relationship between the vehicle frame
and the wheel substitute is set forth in the claims,
irrespective of whether or not any driving means is claimed.
However such expressions as a "vehicle frame", an "axle", a
"pivotal connection between the vehicle frame and wheel
substitute carrying frame" in claims which are otherwise
directed to specific wheel substitute structure are
considered mere nominal recitations of vehicle structure and
are not excluded from Class 305. Also Class 180 takes
patents claiming some element of the driving means of a wheel
substitute except that the mere broad recitation of a drive
means, drive axle or drive sprocket for a wheel substitute is
not sufficient to exclude the patent from Class 305, if the
vehicle is otherwise only nominally recited in the claims.
Further Class 180 takes suction effect and surface effect
vehicles even though no driving means or specific vehicle
structure is claimed.
368, Horology: Time Measuring Systems or Devices, subclasses
6+ for a vehicle responsive parking meter and subclasses 1+
for an horological device acted upon by a disparate device.
475, Planetary Gear Transmission Systems or Components, for a
planetary gear transmission in a vehicle drive train. (See
Lines With Other Classes and Within This Class, above.)
477, Interrelated Power Delivery Controls, Including Engine
Control, for interrelated control between an engine and a
transmission, clutch, or brake. (See Lines With Other
Classes and Within This Class, above.)
GLOSSARY:
NORMAL WHEEL-BASE
Means the arrangement of the four wheels of a vehicle so that
straight lines joining the points of contact of the wheels
with the road form approximately a rectangle when the
steering wheels are in the straight-away position.
STEERING WHEEL
Used in the Class 180 subclass definitions means a
road-wheel, the axis of which may be swung so as to change
the course of the vehicle; however, see Subclass References
in the Current Class above.
SUBCLASSES
Subclass:
2.1
MOTOR SUPPLIED WITH POWER FROM AN EXTERNAL SOURCE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Motors
supplied from without the vehicle with fuel or an equivalent
during the travel of the vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
191, Electricity: Transmission to Vehicles, which contains
inventions relating to the transmission of electrical energy
from fixed points to vehicles, and not involving specific
vehicle structure nor specific means for applying the
electrical energy to any specific purpose.
239, Fluid Sprinkling, Spraying, and Diffusing, subclass 738
and 746 for ambulant sprayers with a stationary fluid supply
and having a carriage propelled by the energy of the fluid to
be sprayed.
Subclass:
2.2
Source comprises or includes energy derived from a force of
nature (e.g., sun, wind):
This subclass is indented under subclass 2.1. Motor vehicles
wherein the source of power for the motor is derived from a
freely occurring natural force (e.g., sun, wind).
(1) Note. For the purposes of this subclass, although a
sail is powered by a natural force, it is not considered a
motor under the class definition and therefor vehicles
powered by sails except in connection with a motor are
excluded from this class.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
114, Ships, subclass 39.12, for sailboard and rig means
therefor and subclasses 39.21+ for sailpowered watercraft.
280, Land Vehicles, subclass 1, 213 and 810 for sail powered
land vehicles.
Subclass:
6.2
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Vehicles having means to cause a relative difference in rate
of travel between traction elements on opposite sides, as by:
(1) unclutching or otherwise disengaging the road traction
element or elements on one side from its driving means; (2)
changing the speed of, or the amount of power transmitted to,
the traction element or elements to produce a differential
effect; or (3) varying the effective tractive area of the
driving element or elements.
(1) Note. The line between this group of subclasses and
Classes 74, Machine Element or Mechanism, 188, Brakes and
192, Clutches and Power-Stop Control and 475, Planetary Gear
Transmission Systems or Components, is that where specific
vehicle frame structure or arrangement not related to the
transmission of power is claimed, such as, the location or
equilibrious positioning of the motor, transmission or the
like on the frame, or other vehicle feature (e.g., load
carrying structure or nondriven wheels), classification is in
Class 180.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
23 for vehicles in which the driving wheels are positively
moved by independent means for steering the vehicle.
24.01 for vehicles in which wheels other than driving wheels
are positively moved by independent means for steering the
vehicle.
24.08 for similar devices in which steering of the vehicle
is not involved.
subclasses 400+ for power steering gear mechanism and
steering gear combined with vehicle power features.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, appropriate subclasses, for
power transmitting elements included in steering by driving
mechanism wherein specific vehicle structure or specific
relation with vehicle structure is not claimed (i.e., the
vehicle is included in name only). See (1) Note.
188, Brakes, appropriate subclasses, for brakes included in
steering by driving mechanism wherein no significant vehicle
structure is claimed. See (1) Note.
192, Clutches and Power-Stop Control, appropriate subclasses,
for brakes and clutches, plural clutches, transmission
control with brake control or clutch, etc., wherein no
significant vehicle structure is claimed. See (1) Note.
475, Planetary Gear Transmission Systems or Components,
subclasses 18+ for steering by driving. See (1) Note.
477, Interrelated Power Delivery Controls, Including Engine
Control, for steering by driving, including interrelated
engine and transmission, clutch, or brake controls and
lacking significant vehicle structure. The same line exists
between Class 180 and Class 477 as exists between Class 180
and Class 74 as set forth above.
Subclass:
6.24
This subclass is indented under subclass 6.2. Vehicles having
combined therewith means for manually turning or rotating
ground engaging elements about a vertical axis; i.e.,
conventional steering gear.
(1) Note. The manual steering mechanism for the most part
controls nondriven wheels.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 400+ for power steering gear mechanisms and
steering gear combined with vehicle power features.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
280, Land Vehicles, subclasses 771+ for a general utility
wheeled land vehicle including occupant controlled steering.
Subclass:
6.26
This subclass is indented under subclass 6.24. Combinations
in which the mechanism for steering by driving is controlled
by or responsive to the manual steering mechanism.
Subclass:
6.28
This subclass is indented under subclass 6.26. Combined
steering mechanisms in which the interlocked relation between
the steering mechanisms is accomplished by means of
electromechanical responsive devices.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
6.44 for auxiliary electric motors used to effect steering
by driving.
6.5 for electric traction motors that drive traction
elements and are controlled to effect steering by driving.
Subclass:
6.3
This subclass is indented under subclass 6.26. Combined
steering mechanisms in which the interlocked relation between
the steering mechanisms is accomplished through the medium of
a fluid pressure system.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
6.44 for auxiliary fluid motors used to effect steering by
driving.
6.48 for fluid traction motors that drive traction elements
and are controlled to effect steering by driving.
Subclass:
6.32
This subclass is indented under subclass 6.26. Combined
steering mechanisms in which the interlocked relation between
the steering mechanisms is accomplished by means of a
mechanical lever and/or linkage system.
Subclass:
6.34
This subclass is indented under subclass 6.32. Steering
mechanisms in which the mechanical lever and/or linkage
system is operated or controlled by a cam mechanism.
Subclass:
6.36
This subclass is indented under subclass 6.32. Steering
mechanisms in which the mechanical lever and/or linkage
systems is constructed so as to have lost motion.
(1) Note. These devices, for the most part, are operative
only when making sharp turns.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
6.34 for cam controlled linkage systems having a lost
motion.
Subclass:
6.38
This subclass is indented under subclass 6.32. Steering
mechanisms in which the motion of the mechanical lever and/or
linkage system is controlled by geared members.
Subclass:
6.4
This subclass is indented under subclass 6.32. Steering
mechanisms in which the mechanical lever and/or linkage
system includes flexible and/or yieldable elements.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
6.36 for yieldable elements providing lost motion in the
steering mechanism.
Subclass:
6.44
This subclass is indented under subclass 6.2. Vehicles in
which a separate motor is used to modify or vary the drive to
the traction element or elements to effect steering by
driving.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
6.28 for auxiliary electric motors in steering by driving
systems combined with manual steering mechanisms.
6.3 for auxiliary fluid motors in steering by driving
systems combined with manual steering mechanisms.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, subclasses 640+ for
gearing in general with two power sources.
475, Planetary Gear Transmission Systems or Components,
subclasses 1+ for planetary gearing having two power
sources.
Subclass:
6.48
This subclass is indented under subclass 6.2. Vehicles in
which different traction elements are driven by individually
controlled motor units for varying motor power output to
effect steering by driving.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
6.3 for independently operable fluid drive motors in
steering by driving systems combined with manual steering
mechanism.
Subclass:
6.5
This subclass is indented under subclass 6.48. Combinations
in which the motor units are electrical.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
6.28 for electrical motor units used in interlocked steering
mechanisms.
Subclass:
6.54
This subclass is indented under subclass 6.2. Vehicles in
which the effective tractive area of a traction element or
elements is varied.
(1) Note. These vehicles, for the most part, have endless
flexible traction elements.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
6.7 for vehicles having endless flexible traction elements,
steered by driving, but not involving variable ground
contact.
15 for vehicles having auxiliary traction elements.
16 for auxiliary traction elements adapted to be attached to
vehicles.
Subclass:
6.58
This subclass is indented under subclass 6.2. Vehicles in
which means for controlling the steering by driving mechanism
is located on a pivotally mounted platform or turntable type
of superstructure.
(1) Note. These are for the most part vehicles having
endless flexible tracks.
Subclass:
6.6
This subclass is indented under subclass 6.58. Combinations
in which the steering by driving mechanism is responsive to
the position of and/or controllable by the rotation of the
superstructure.
Subclass:
6.62
This subclass is indented under subclass 6.2. Vehicles
claimed in combination with features other than the steering
by driving structure and not provided for in preceding
subclasses.
(1) Note. Steering by driving structure includes propulsive
ground engaging elements and power, transmission and/or
driving means such as will produce variation in the relative
motion of the traction elements either by changing power or
tractive effort, with connecting framework or platform.
(2) Note. In this subclass, for example, are combinations
with power take-offs, hitches or hangers for a trailing load
or animal draft, furrow engaging wheels used as a controlling
element for the steering by driving mechanism, and supports
on which the vehicle can be tilted.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
6.24 for steering by driving mechanism combined with manual
steering mechanism.
6.58 for steering by driving mechanism combined with a
rotatably mounted superstructure.
53.1 for other power take-offs combined with vehicle
structure.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, subclasses 11+ for power
take-offs, per se.
192, Clutches and Power-Stop Control, the unnumbered title
"Interrelated power delivery controls" and see the Notes
thereto for interrelated control of one or more of prime
movers, clutches, gearing, brakes and loads by name only.
Subclass:
6.64
This subclass is indented under subclass 6.2. Vehicles having
a frame member, carrying driven traction elements, mounted so
as to swing about a vertical axis in response to the steering
by driving.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
14.1 for articulated trains of motor vehicles.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
280, Land Vehicles, subclass 124.109 for a general utility
wheeled land vehicle including a self-sustaining structural
assembly disposed between the vehicle body, chassis, or frame
and the axle, wheel, or wheels; subclasses 124.11+ for a
general utility wheeled land vehicle wherein the running gear
includes a pivotally mounted axle or axle assembly providing
resilient, shock absorbing support for the vehicle body
chassis or frame; subclasses 137.5+ for a general utility
wheeled land vehicle wherein the running gear includes a
turnable axle lacking resilient, shock absorbing support; or
subclasses 400+ for an articulated vehicle or interconnected
plural vehicles (i.e., vehicle train).
Subclass:
6.66
This subclass is indented under subclass 6.2. Vehicles in
which means are provided for driving the traction elements in
relatively reverse directions to effect steering by driving.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
6.48 for vehicles driven by individually controlled motor
units capable of selectively reversing the drive to their
respective traction elements.
Subclass:
6.7
This subclass is indented under subclass 6.2. Vehicles
wherein the traction elements are flexible and endless.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
6.58 for endless flexible tracked vehicles mounting a
rotatable superstructure.
9.1 for endless flexible tracked vehicles not involving
steering by driving.
Subclass:
7.1
SPECIAL DRIVING DEVICE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Motor-vehicles driven in some other way than by the mere
rotation of road-wheels as traction-wheels.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
116 for surface effect vehicles.
164 for a motor vehicle having powered means for creating a
fluid force to attract the vehicle to the surface upon which
it travels.
subclasses 186+ for a motor vehicle which includes a
ski-like or runner member and wherein the vehicle is provided
with at least one surface-engaging propulsion element.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
104, Railways, subclass 235, for vehicles propelling the
vehicle along a fixed cable.
242, Winding, Tensioning, or Guiding, subclass 390.7 for a
reeling device driven by a vehicle motor, 392 for a spool
mounted on a vehicle wheel, and 391+ for a traction driven
spool in a reeling device.
280, Land Vehicles, subclasses 8+ for a general utility
land vehicle including both wheel and runner ground engaging
elements; subclass 28.5 for a general utility land vehicle
including wheel substitutes; or subclasses 845+ for a general
utility land vehicle including runner ground engaging
elements. In each instance identified above, the vehicle
being claimed is a nonmotor vehicle or identified only as a
nonmotor vehicle in the specific disclosure.
305, Wheel Substitutes for Land Vehicles, appropriate
subclasses, for wheel substitutes, per se. See the class
definition of Class 180 for the line between Class 180 and
Class 305.
Subclass:
7.2
Spiral type element:
This subclass is indented under subclass 7.1. Motor vehicle
wherein at least one propulsion element comprises a reaction
surface in the form of a screw or a helix which is driven
about its axis of rotation, said axis being in general
alignment with the direction of the vehicle's motion.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
188 for vehicles driven by this type of device and also
provided with runners.
Subclass:
7.3
Reaction jet propulsion:
This subclass is indented under subclass 7.1. Motor vehicle
wherein the special driving device is a jet propulsion
device.
Subclass:
7.4
Propeller type:
This subclass is indented under subclass 7.1. Motor vehicle
wherein the special driving device is a rotary fluid reaction
type impeller.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 182+ for vehicles driven by this type of device
and also equipped with runners.
Subclass:
7.5
Vehicle mounted winch for pulling vehicle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 7.1. Motor vehicle
wherein the special driving device is a driven cable reel
which is mounted on the vehicle and winds a cable connected
at its other end to a stationary object.
(1) Note. These devices are usually used to extract the
vehicle from the mud and the like.
(2) Note. A wheeled roadway vehicle having a motor powered,
traction cable-pulling device mounted on it for propelling it
from one location to another as the cable is pulled by the
device, is found in this subclass; if, however, the vehicle
is not claimed, or the device is not disclosed as also being
used to pull a load, classification is in Class 254.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
254, Implements or Apparatus for Applying Pushing or Pulling
Force, subclasses 264+, for apparatus for hauling or hoisting
a load which includes a driven device for pulling on or
traveling along a cable, and wherein either the device or the
cable is attached to the load; see (2) Note above.
Subclass:
8.1
Stepper:
This subclass is indented under subclass 7.1. Motor vehicles
driven by mechanical legs.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
187 for a motor vehicle of the kind described in the
reference to subclasses 186+ appearing in subclass 7.1 above,
and wherein the propulsion element is of a type which
shuffles along the vehicle-supporting surface.
203 for a motor vehicle provided with powered,
ground-engaging means for producing, or assisting in the
production of, lateral movement of the vehicle (e.g., for
parking) and wherein the means comprises a reciprocally
driven stepper or a rotatably driven cam.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
56, Harvesters, subclasses 365+ for combined rakes and
tedders and 370+ for tedders.
105, Railway Rolling Stock, subclass 32 and 49 for
intermittent grip drive.
172, Earth Working, subclasses 84+ for earth working blades
having a reciprocating and oscillating motion, and subclass
352 for earth working apparatus with manually driven stepper
propulsion means.
280, Land Vehicles, subclass 1.181 for an occupant propelled
land vehicle which simulates an animate figure including
similar driving means; or subclasses 218 and 219 for a
general utility wheeled land vehicle of occupant propelled
type including similar driving means.
305, Wheel Substitutes for Land Vehicles, subclasses 1+ for
stepper type wheel substitutes.
Subclass:
8.2
Step or abutment ascending/descending type vehicle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 8.1. Motor vehicle
wherein the mechanical legs are used to propel the vehicle up
or down steps or abutments (e.g., stair climber).
(1) Note. Vehicles to be placed in this subclass must have
legs that engage the step or abutment by intermittent action.
Legs on wheels which form spiders will be found in this
subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
9.22 for motor driven stair climbers employing only an
endless tread.
Subclass:
8.3
Wheel and stepper type:
This subclass is indented under subclass 8.1. Motor vehicle
having supporting wheels in addition to the mechanical legs.
Subclass:
8.4
Nonsupporting pusher type stepper:
This subclass is indented under subclass 8.3. Motor vehicles
wherein the mechanical legs serve only to propel the
vehicle.
Subclass:
8.5
With alternately lifted support base and legs:
This subclass is indented under subclass 8.1. Motor vehicle
having a ground engaging supporting base and at least one
mechanical leg and including means that alternately lift the
base and the leg from the ground and means for moving the
base and leg relative to one another to move the vehicle.
Subclass:
8.6
With alternately lifted feet or skids:
Motor vehicle under 8.1 having ground engaging means that are
alternately lifted from the ground and reciprocated or swung
relative to the vehicle to move the vehicle.
Subclass:
8.7
Endless or rotary type:
This subclass is indented under subclass 8.1. Motor vehicle
wherein the mechanical legs are mounted for guided motion on
an endless guide track or a rotary support and engage with
and disengage from the ground in succession.
Subclass:
9
This subclass is indented under subclass 7.1. Motor-vehicles
adapted to travel upon a track carried by the vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
305, Wheel Substitutes for Land Vehicles, subclasses 6+ for
rigid portable tracks.
Subclass:
9.1
This subclass is indented under subclass 9. Motor vehicles
wherein the track is flexible and endless.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 184+ for a motor vehicle which includes a
ski-like or runner member, which member is substitutable for
support structure of the wheel type, and wherein the vehicle
is provided with a propulsion element of the endless track
type.
subclasses 190+ for a motor vehicle which includes a
ski-like or runner member and wherein the vehicle is provided
with at least one surface-engaging propulsion element of the
endless track type.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
172, Earth Working, subclass 292 for an earth working
implement propelled over the ground by an endless track motor
vehicle.
280, Land Vehicles, subclass 5.22 for a step or abutment
ascending land vehicle including an endless track; subclass
28.5 for a nonmotor general utility land vehicle including
wheel substitutes; or subclasses 124.128+, particularly
subclass 124.129 for a general utility wheeled land vehicle
wherein the running gear includes a wheel separately
supported upon an individual stub axle by a longitudinally
extending swinging support arm as commonly used in
conjunction with an endless track but not claiming the
endless track.
305, Wheel Substitutes for Land Vehicles, appropriate
subclasses for flexible endless track type wheel
substitutes.
Subclass:
9.21
Track substituted for drive wheel:
This subclass is indented under subclass 9.1. Motor vehicles
wherein the endless track is substituted for one or more of
the regular drive wheels of the vehicle.
Subclass:
9.22
This subclass is indented under subclass 9.1. Motor vehicles
provided with means by which the vehicle may be supported or
guided by a walking attendant.
(1) Note. Motorized stair climbers using endless tread
drives will be found in this subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
19.1 for a motor vehicle steered by a walking attendant.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
172, Earth Working, subclass 258 for an earth working
implement supported on an endless track motor vehicle which
is guided by a walking attendant.
Subclass:
9.23
With attendant station:
This subclass is indented under subclass 9.1. Motor vehicles
provided with a seat or other support means for the operator
of the vehicle.
Subclass:
9.25
Rider straddles vehicle (e.g., motorcycle):
This subclass is indented under subclass 9.23. Motor vehicle
wherein the attendant rides the vehicle with one leg on each
side of the vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 190+ for snowmobiles.
Subclass:
9.26
This subclass is indented under subclass 9.1. Motor vehicles
wherein (1) a flexible track is always carried by a vehicle
provided with ground wheels but by an adjustment of parts the
vehicle is either a flexible track vehicle (i.e., a vehicle
in which a flexible track engages the ground) or a wheeled
vehicle (i.e., a vehicle in which all of the supporting means
are wheels) or (2) a frame carrying a flexible track
apparatus is mounted on a wheeled vehicle without removing
any of the wheels from the vehicle.
(1) Note. Devices in which the drive wheel of a vehicle is
removed and a flexible track apparatus substituted therefor,
and devices in which a flexible track is applied to the drive
wheel of a motor vehicle to extend between such drive wheel
and an idler wheel to convert the wheel vehicle into an
endless track vehicle are not included in this subclass.
Such devices are classified on other features in other
subclasses under subclass 9.1.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
185 for a motor vehicle which includes a ski-like or runner
member, which member is substitutable for support structure
of the wheel type, and wherein the vehicle is provided with a
propulsion element of the endless track type and further
wherein the track comprises a substitute for or an addition
to a propulsion element in the nature of a traction wheel.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
305, Wheel Substitutes for Land Vehicles, subclass 20 for a
flexible track apparatus adapted to be positioned beneath a
vehicle so that the vehicle wheel directly engages the upper
surface of the flexible track to drive said track.
Subclass:
9.28
This subclass is indented under subclass 9.26. Motor vehicles
wherein the flexible track is always carried by a vehicle
provided with ground wheel means and by an adjustment of
parts may be brought into or out of ground contact.
Subclass:
9.3
This subclass is indented under subclass 9.28. Motor vehicles
wherein the arrangement of parts is such that when the
flexible track contacts the ground the wheel means is out of
ground contact.
Subclass:
9.32
This subclass is indented under subclass 9.1. Apparatus
provided with means in addition to the running gear of the
vehicle, said means being out of ground contact during normal
operation of the vehicle but being operative when the vehicle
encounters an obstacle to assist the vehicle in surmounting
the obstacle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
9.28 for a wheel vehicle provided with a flexible track
apparatus, said flexible track apparatus being vertically
movable into or out of ground contact.
Subclass:
9.34
This subclass is indented under subclass 9.1. Motor vehicles
provided with a ground engaging wheel adapted to assist the
endless track in supporting or propelling the vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
9.32 for a flexible track motor vehicle provided with wheels
which are normally out of ground contact, but which are
engageable with the ground when the vehicle encounters an
obstruction.
Subclass:
9.36
This subclass is indented under subclass 9.34. Motor vehicles
wherein the ground wheel is located to one side of the track,
and a portion thereof lies within an area defined by a
horizontal projection of the track periphery.
Subclass:
9.38
This subclass is indented under subclass 9.34. Motor vehicles
wherein said wheel is adapted to be turned to steer the
vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
9.44 for steering means in which the track is steered.
Subclass:
9.4
This subclass is indented under subclass 9.1. Motor vehicles
provided with an articulated hitch for connecting another
vehicle to the motor vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
280, Land Vehicles, subclasses 400+ for articulated
vehicles.
Subclass:
9.42
This subclass is indented under subclass 9.1. Motor vehicles
in combination with means other than the basic subject matter
of subclass 9.1, which includes a flexible track structure, a
vehicle frame and motive power and drive means for the
flexible track, and not provided for in other subclasses
under subclass 9.1.
(1) Note. This subclass includes, for example, jack means
for supporting the vehicle frame on the track frame for
allowing the removal of the drive sprocket from the
apparatus, an automatic track leveling means, a crawler speed
indicator, a track heating means, a vehicle hood usable as a
trailer, and a means for conducting the engine exhaust gases
to the final drive mechanism for the expulsion of dirt and
grit therefrom.
Subclass:
9.44
This subclass is indented under subclass 9.1. Motor vehicles
provided with means for steering the vehicle.
(1) Note. The means of this subclass may involve modifying
(e.g., by distorting) or repositioning, relative to the
vehicle, a track.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
6.7 for a flexible track motor vehicle which is steered by
driving.
9.38 for a flexible track vehicle provided with a separate
ground engaging wheel which is adapted to be turned to steer
the vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
305, Wheel Substitutes for Land Vehicles, subclass 44 for an
endless flexible track where the track is so modified as to
facilitate steering thereof.
Subclass:
9.46
This subclass is indented under subclass 9.44. Motor vehicles
wherein the track is carried by a frame which is pivotally
mounted on the vehicle frame to turn about a vertical axis.
Subclass:
9.48
This subclass is indented under subclass 9.1. Motor vehicles
wherein the flexible track is carried by a frame and (1)
there are means to selectively hold the track frame at
various distances from the vehicle frame, or (2) the track
frame is adapted to accommodate tracks of varying widths.
Subclass:
9.5
This subclass is indented under subclass 9.1. Motor vehicles
in which at least one end portion of the track is trained
over a supporting structure including an end wheel and said
supporting structure is mounted for movement in a vertical
plane relative to the vehicle frame.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
193 for a motor vehicle of the kind described in the
reference to subclasses 190+ appearing in subclass 9.1 above
and wherein the endless track is provided with a vertically
movable support which is located intermediate the forward and
rearward extremities of the track.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
305, Wheel Substitutes for Land Vehicles, subclass 143 for a
wheel substitute apparatus comprising a pair of spaced end
wheels, a flexible track trained about said end wheels, and
one of said end wheels being vertically movable with relation
to the other end wheel.
Subclass:
9.52
This subclass is indented under subclass 9.5. Motor vehicles
wherein means are provided to selectively hold said
supporting structure in different vertical positions relative
to the vehicle frame.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
9.28 for a vehicle provided with ground wheels and a
flexible track apparatus, and in which the track apparatus
may be selectively raised or lowered relative to the vehicle
frame.
Subclass:
9.54
This subclass is indented under subclass 9.5. Motor vehicles
wherein spring means are provided between the track
supporting structure and the vehicle frame.
Subclass:
9.56
This subclass is indented under subclass 9.54. Motor vehicles
wherein said spring means comprises a coil spring extending
in a longitudinal direction relative to the vehicle frame.
Subclass:
9.58
This subclass is indented under subclass 9.54. Motor vehicles
wherein said spring means comprises either a leaf or torsion
spring.
Subclass:
9.6
This subclass is indented under subclass 9.58. Motor vehicles
wherein said leaf or torsion spring extends in a transverse
direction relative to the vehicle frame.
Subclass:
9.62
This subclass is indented under subclass 9.1. Motor vehicles
wherein the track is driven by means of a wheel provided with
track engaging teeth along the periphery thereof.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
305, Wheel Substitutes for Land Vehicles, subclasses 195+
for specific interengaging means between a track and its
driving sprocket.
Subclass:
9.64
This subclass is indented under subclass 9.62. Motor vehicles
wherein said toothed wheel is driven by a power train which
includes a belt or a sprocket chain.
Subclass:
10
This subclass is indented under subclass 9. Motor-vehicles
having a ring or annular track on which a supporting-wheel or
supporting-wheels of the vehicle bear and which is caused to
rotate to effect propulsion.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 342+ for transmission mechanism which includes a
rotatably driven pulley or the equivalent for driving a tire
or a wheel rim by direct engagement therewith.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
280, Land Vehicles, subclass 207 for vehicles propelled by
occupant within the wheel.
295, Railway Wheels and Axles, subclass 3 for railway wheels
of this type.
305, Wheel Substitutes for Land Vehicles, subclass 7 for a
rigid circular track type wheel substitute.
Subclass:
11
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Devices
comprising a frame carrying a motor supported on one or more
wheels and adapted to be attached to a vehicle which supports
the frame in part.
(1) Note. The motor may drive the wheel or wheels of the
frame or a wheel or wheels of the vehicle.
(2) Note. See (2) Note of subclass 295 below regarding the
apparent absence, at present, of a clear line of distinction
between the art of that subclass (295) and that of this
subclass (11).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
295 for a motor vehicle wherein the motor and the body frame
are particularly related to one another and wherein a
change-speed gearing or a clutch is mounted in common with
the motor and further wherein a wheeled auxiliary frame,
which is resiliently joined to the body frame, is provided
for supporting the motor and the gearing or clutch; however,
see also (2) Note above.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
280, Land Vehicles, subclasses 400+ for articulated
vehicles, especially subclasses 423.1+ for a motor section
and a trailer supported on the rear end thereof, the motor
section and trailer being separable.
Subclass:
12
This subclass is indented under subclass 11. Frames wherein
the wheels of the attachment are driven and steered.
Subclass:
13
This subclass is indented under subclass 12. Frames having a
single wheel supporting the frame.
Subclass:
14.1
VEHICLE TRAINS:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Vehicles having two or more connected vehicles, one at least
being a motor vehicle which remains a complete vehicle when
the other vehicle or vehicles are detached.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
182 for a vehicle train consisting of one or more sleds
attached to a motor vehicle, as mentioned in (1) Note
thereof.
235 for a motor vehicle having four wheels driven and
provided with means for steering all of the driven wheels and
wherein the means includes articulation of the frame of the
vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
280, Land Vehicles, subclasses 400+ for patents relating to
a train of vehicles including a motor vehicle, and claiming
the motor vehicle only by a general term, as motor vehicle or
traction-engine.
Subclass:
14.2
Motorized trailer:
This subclass is indented under subclass 14.1. Motor vehicles
wherein each of the vehicles is provided with its own motor
or power plant.
Subclass:
14.3
All motors supplied from power plant of a single vehicle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 14.2. Motor vehicles
wherein the motors of all of the vehicles are supplied with
power from a power plant mounted on one vehicle (e.g.,
hydrostatic or electric transmission of power between
vehicles).
(1) Note. Motor as used herein refers to a device supplied
with power from an external source.
Subclass:
14.4
Drive means between vehicles through coupling:
This subclass is indented under subclass 14.1. Motor vehicles
wherein one vehicle is a complete motor vehicle which drives
the wheels of the other vehicles by means of a drive train
extending through the means coupling the vehicles.
Subclass:
14.5
This subclass is indented under subclass 14.1. Vehicles in
which the connections between the motor vehicle and the drawn
vehicle contain means which operates to stop the motor or
release the load in case of overload.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
172, Earth Working, subclass 3 for earth working apparatus
with an automatically operated control of the motive power
for the apparatus. A trailing implement must be claimed by
more than name only to be placed in Class 172.
192, Clutches and Power-Stop Control, subclass 150 for
over-load released stop mechanisms.
280, Land Vehicles, subclasses 449+ for vehicle train draft
couplings with over-load release.
Subclass:
14.6
Tractor drive effort varied by pull exerted by trailer:
This subclass is indented under subclass 14.1. Motor vehicle
where one vehicle is a complete motor vehicle which functions
as a tractor and the power applied to the wheels of the
tractor is a function of the load exerted by the trailing
vehicles on the means connecting the vehicles.
Subclass:
14.7
Vehicle drive drives other vehicle wheel:
This subclass is indented under subclass 14.1. Motor vehicle
where one vehicle is a complete motor vehicle which has drive
means directly engaging and driving one or more wheels of the
other vehicle, e.g., a drive device for driving the nose or
trail wheel of an aircraft.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
904 for a cross reference art collection of traction dollies
for aircraft.
Subclass:
15
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Vehicles with driving devices consisting of one or more
traction-wheels not constituting the main supporting-wheels
of the vehicle. The traction-wheel is frequently mounted on
a frame pivoted at one end to the vehicle body or
running-gear.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 11+ for motor carrying attachments which may
have traction wheels.
196 for a motor vehicle which includes one or more ski-like
or runner members and wherein the vehicle is provided with at
least one surface-engaging propulsion element and further
wherein the element comprises a traction wheel.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
105, Railway Rolling Stock, especially subclass 73 for
locomotives and traction regulators therefor.
Subclass:
16
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Devices
comprising a frame carrying traction-wheels adapted to be
attached to motor vehicles.
(1) Note. The traction-wheels of the motor-vehicle may be
removed or may remain in place; but the traction-wheels of
the attachment support the vehicle instead of the original
traction-wheels and are driven from the source of power of
the motor vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 11+ for such frames carrying a motor.
Subclass:
19.1
STEERED BY WALKING ATTENDANT:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Vehicles having steering means adapted to be actuated by an
attendant who walks with the vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
9.22 for such vehicles adapted to travel upon a flexible
endless track carried by the vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
56, Harvesters, subclass 14.7, a harvester driven by a motor
and guided by a walking attendant.
172, Earth Working, subclasses 42+ for a driven earth
working tool guided by a walking attendant, and subclasses
256+ for an earth working apparatus comprising a propulsion
unit guided by a walking attendant.
280, Land Vehicles, subclass 47.11 for non-motor propelled
vehicles with wheel steering by walking attendant.
Subclass:
19.2
Who steerably controls steerable wheel:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.1. Motor vehicles
including steerable wheel means and mechanism carried by the
vehicles, accessible to the walking attendant to control the
steerable wheel means.
(1) Note. Castered wheels with a handle attached thereto
are included in this subclass.
Subclass:
19.3
Handle movement controls vehicle drive:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19.1. Motor vehicles
having a handle engaged by the attendant for guiding the
vehicle with movement of the handle relative to the vehicle
by the attendant being effective to control the drive means
to the vehicle wheels.
(1) Note. Sectional handles in which one handle portion is
movable to control the drive are included in this subclass
Subclass:
20
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Motor
vehicles wherein one or more rollers support the body or
frame.
(1) Note. Patents for power steering-gear disclosing a
steering-roller are placed in this subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
172, Earth Working, subclasses 133+ for rollers combined
with other earth working tools and subclasses 518+ for some
types of rollers specific to agricultural use.
404, Road Structure, Process, or Apparatus, subclasses 122+
for a device for working earth or road material provided with
one or more rollers.
492, Roll or Roller, for a roll, per se, not elsewhere
provided for, and see the notes thereunder.
Subclass:
21
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Motor
vehicles in which the arrangement of the road-wheels differs
from the usual one in which straight lines joining the points
of contact of the wheels with the road form approximately a
rectangle when the steering-wheels are in the straightaway
position.
(1) Note. In the reclassification of former subclasses 25+
("Three wheeled") and 29+ ("Two wheeled") of this area, now
subclasses 205 through 231, and in a concurrent screening of
the examiner copies of the patents of this subclass (21),
which subclass was not included in the reclassification
project, a vehicle which is (a) disclosed solely as having a
number or an arrangement of wheels whereby it constitutes a
special wheel base type of vehicle, even though the specific
number or arrangement of wheels is not claimed, or (b)
disclosed as having both special and nonspecial (i.e., four
wheels, rectangularly arranged) wheel base species, and
claimed only generically, is classified here (subclasses 21
and 205 through 231); however, this statement is not
applicable to subclass 22 and the subclasses indented
thereunder, which subclasses were not included in the project
nor were they screened.
(2) Note. Also included herein (subclasses 21 and 205
through 231) is a subcombination of a special wheel base
vehicle, provided that the subcombination (a) is not
specifically provided for in another class or in a superior
subclass of this class and (b) is primarily relevant only to
the special wheel base vehicle with which it is associated.
(3) Note. Generally, a vehicle which is disclosed solely as
having a nonspecial (see (1) Note above) wheel base, but for
which a number of wheels less than four is claimed, is not
classified here (subclasses 21 and 205 through 231) on the
basis of that specific number of wheels; rather,
classification is elsewhere in the class on some other
feature.
(4) Note. Insofar as subclasses 21 and 205 through 231 are
concerned, the substitution of a dual wheel (i.e., two wheels
having their central portions either joined back to back or
else otherwise mounted in such proximity to each other that
insufficient space remains therebetween for accommodating an
intervening element such as a drive chain or a steering gear
operating shaft) for a single wheel at one or more of the
vehicle's wheel-carrying locations does not change the number
of wheels thereon from the standpoint of determining the
vehicle's wheel base. This statement, however, is not
intended to affect the meaning assigned to "dual wheel pair"
in subclass 24.03.
Subclass:
22
This subclass is indented under subclass 21. Motor vehicles
comprising five or more main supporting-wheels.
(1) Note. These are single vehicles and are distinguishable
by this from the vehicles of subclass 14.1.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 11+ for vehicles having wheeled motor carrying
attachments.
14.1 (see Note 1).
15 for single vehicles having additional traction wheels.
subclasses 233+ for a motor vehicle having four wheels
which are driven.
Subclass:
23
This subclass is indented under subclass 22. Apparatus in
which one of the supporting wheels is a driving wheel which
is positively moved by independent means for guidance of the
vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
6.2 for vehicles that are steered by causing a relative
difference in the rate of travel between traction elements on
opposite sides thereof.
24.01 for vehicles in which nondriving wheels are positively
moved for steering a vehicle.
Subclass:
24
This subclass is indented under subclass 23. Apparatus in
which the driving wheel which is positively moved to guide
the vehicle swings about pivot means positioned between the
medium line of the vehicle and the wheel.
Subclass:
24.01
This subclass is indented under subclass 22. Apparatus in
which one of the wheels is positively moved by external means
for guiding the vehicle and in which one other wheel
longitudinally spaced in the direction of travel of the
vehicle being either positively and simultaneously moved for
steering the vehicle or movably mounted to vehicle structure
to move incident to a steering movement of the vehicle.
Subclass:
24.02
This subclass is indented under subclass 22. Apparatus which
one of the wheels is either (1) adjustably mounted for
vertical movement on the frame of the vehicle or (2) mounted
for vertical movement and moving incident to a condition of
operation of the vehicle whereby the load carried by one
other wheel is accordingly modified.
(1) Note. Under part (2) of the above definition it is
considered that wheels mounted on opposite ends of a rocker
beam or the equivalent thereof and thereby having relative
vertical movement do not constitute load shifting or
proportioning wheels for classification here and
classification thereof will be based on other vehicle
features classifiable in subclass 22 of this class or the
subclasses indented thereunder.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 200+ for a motor vehicle provided with powered,
ground-engaging means for producing, or assisting in the
production of, lateral movement of the vehicle (e.g., for
parking) and wherein the means comprises a rotatably driven
member which may be an auxiliary wheel.
Subclass:
24.03
This subclass is indented under subclass 22. Apparatus in
which two of the wheels are positioned side-by-side to
thereby make a dual wheel pair and in which each wheel of the
dual wheel pair is mounted on the vehicle to have rotational
differential movement relative to the other wheel of the
wheel pair.
(1) Note. See (4) Note of subclass 21 above.
Subclass:
24.04
This subclass is indented under subclass 22. Apparatus in
which gearing connected to and simultaneously and
differentially transmitting driving power to laterally spaced
driving wheel axles is provided with a housing which is
rigidly connected to the frame of the vehicle.
Subclass:
24.05
This subclass is indented under subclass 22. Apparatus in
which the motor vehicle includes a hollow pivoted member
having mounting means intermediate its ends by which it is
rotatably supported on the vehicle, the hollow pivoted member
having one of the wheels mounted thereon at each of its ends
and driving torque to the wheels being provided by power
transmitting mechanism within the hollow member.
Subclass:
24.06
This subclass is indented under subclass 22. Apparatus in
which the motive means for propelling the vehicle comprises
either a plurality of prime movers or a plurality of energy
conversion devices converting other than mechanical energy to
mechanical energy.
Subclass:
24.07
This subclass is indented under subclass 24.06. Apparatus
comprising a separate prime mover or energy conversion device
for independently driving each driving wheel of the vehicle
for propelling the vehicle.
Subclass:
24.08
This subclass is indented under subclass 22. Apparatus in
which the motive means is positively drivingly connected to
each wheel of the vehicle for propelling the vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
6.2 for similar devices in which steering of the vehicle is
involved.
38 for a motor vehicle of the steam traction engine type
having not only the steering wheels, but also the remaining
two wheels, driven.
212 for a motor vehicle having a wheel arrangement
comprising three wheels and wherein at least one wheel is
steered and further wherein each wheel is driven.
224 for a motor vehicle having a wheel arrangement
comprising two wheels in tandem relationship and wherein at
least one of the wheels is steered and further wherein both
wheels are motor driven.
subclasses 233+ as explained in the reference thereto
appearing in subclass 22 above.
Subclass:
24.09
This subclass is indented under subclass 22. Apparatus in
which the drive means for the motor vehicle includes a power
dividing means in the form of differential gearing driving
each differential of a tandem pair of differentially driven
wheel drive axles.
Subclass:
24.1
This subclass is indented under subclass 22. Apparatus
comprising two driving wheels spaced longitudinally in the
direction of travel of the vehicle and the drive thereto
includes drive disconnect means whereby driving torque to one
of the longitudinally spaced driving wheels is discontinued,
the driving torque to the other driving wheel remaining
unaffected.
Subclass:
24.11
This subclass is indented under subclass 22. Apparatus
comprising wheels spaced longitudinally in the direction of
travel of the vehicle and a drive to two of the
longitudinally spaced wheels for propelling the vehicle.
Subclass:
24.12
This subclass is indented under subclass 24.11. Apparatus
wherein the drive to the longitudinally spaced wheels is
initially directed to a wheel or drive gearing therefor from
which one other wheel or its drive gearing is sequentially
driven whereby upon interruption of the drive to the first
mentioned wheel or drive gearing, drive to the other wheel or
to the other drive gearing would also be interrupted.
Subclass:
24.13
This subclass is indented under subclass 22. Apparatus in
which the motor vehicle includes an elongated resilient
member having a wheel means mounted at each end thereof, the
elongate resilient member being pivotally mounted
intermediate its ends to the frame of the vehicle.
Subclass:
36
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Vehicles of normal wheelbase carrying a steam-engine and
boiler, the parts of the power plant constituting the main
part of the vehicle, precluding its use as a means of
carrying goods or passengers.
(1) Note. Classification in this and the indented
subclasses likewise is proper when only the steam traction
engine vehicle and its boiler are claimed, i.e., the motor
(engine) is disclosed but not claimed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 303+ for a motor vehicle of other than the steam
traction engine type having a propulsion motor driven by
expansible gas from an external source, which gas is produced
by treating a volatile fluid (e.g., the gas is steam).
310 for a vehicle of the kind described above as being
proper for subclasses 303+ but wherein the vehicle's motor is
not claimed.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
60, Power Plants, subclass 668 for a steam power system
physically related to vehicle structure. See (1) Note of the
class definition of Class 180 for the line between Class 180
and the power or motor classes.
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, in appropriate subclasses,
for transmission mechanism not involving specific vehicle
structure. For a more detailed statement of this line see
Note 1, b, under the class definition.
280, Land Vehicles, subclasses 830+ for inventions relating
to the mounting of a boiler on the running gear.
Subclass:
37
This subclass is indented under subclass 36. Vehicles wherein
the steering-wheels are driven.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 12+ for a motor vehicle having a motor-carrying
attachment in the nature of a wheeled frame and wherein the
wheels of the frame are driven and steered.
subclasses 23+ for a motor vehicle having a wheel
arrangement comprising five or more wheels and wherein one or
more of the wheels are driven and steered.
subclasses 211+ for a motor vehicle having a wheel
arrangement comprising three wheels and wherein at least one
of the wheels is driven and steered.
222 for a motor vehicle having a wheel arrangement
comprising two wheels in tandem relationship and wherein one
of the wheels is driven frictionally and further wherein
means is provided for steering that wheel.
subclasses 223+ for a motor vehicle having a wheel
arrangement comprising two wheels in tandem relationship and
wherein at least one of the wheels is driven and steered.
subclasses 234+ for a motor vehicle having four wheels
driven and provided with means for steering all of the driven
wheels.
subclasses 252+ for a motor vehicle having at least one
wheel which is both driven and steerable.
subclasses 400+ for a motor vehicle having means for
guiding it.
Subclass:
38
This subclass is indented under subclass 37. Vehicles in
which all four wheels are driven.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
212 for a motor vehicle having a wheel arrangement
comprising three wheels and wherein at least one wheel is
steered and further wherein each wheel is driven.
224 for a motor vehicle having a wheel arrangement
comprising two wheels in tandem relationship and wherein at
least one of the wheels is steered and further wherein both
wheels are motor driven.
subclasses 234+ as explained in the reference thereto
appearing in subclass 37 above.
Subclass:
39
This subclass is indented under subclass 36. Vehicles wherein
means is provided for leveling the boiler.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
280, Land Vehicles, subclass 7 for similar vehicles without
special motor features.
Subclass:
40
This subclass is indented under subclass 36. Vehicles in
which the boiler is mounted by means of springs on the rear
axle or axle of the driving wheels.
Subclass:
41
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Motor-vehicles having means for raising the frame or body
relatively to a wheel or wheels, also power means for raising
a frame or body relatively to a wheel or wheels.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
39 for boiler carrying vehicles of this type.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
56, Harvesters, subclasses 208+ for harvester platform
adjustments.
280, Land Vehicles, subclass 5.5 for a land vehicle
including an active suspension responsive to a force
encountered while the vehicle is in surface traversing
motion; subclasses 6.15+, particularly subclasses 6.157+ for
a general utility land vehicle including means, interposed
between the vehicle body, chassis, or frame and running gear
thereof, provided for altering height or levelness of the
vehicle body, chassis, or frame; or subclasses 43+ for a
general utility wheeled land vehicle including means for
vertically adjusting a wheel for the proximate utility of
altering a dimension of the vehicle or a part thereof.
Subclass:
53.1
MOTOR AS SOURCE OF POWER FOR OTHER MACHINE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Devices
designed to facilitate the use of the motor of a motor
vehicle to supply power to drive other machines.
(1) Note. Inventions of this nature disclosed in connection
with a steam traction-engine of usual wheelbase will be found
in subclass 36.
(2) Note. Classes 74, Machine Element or Mechanism, and
464, Rotary Shafts, Gudgeons, Housing, and Flexible Couplings
for Rotary Shafts, contain devices of general application for
transmitting power from a motor.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
14.1 for motor-vehicles supplying power to other vehicles
connected thereto.
36 (see (1) Note).
198 for a portable carrier which comprises the sole support
for a motor of the vehicle, the power of the motor continuing
to be expended in the same manner (e.g., through the
vehicle's wheels), however, as it was when the vehicle was
not supported by the carrier.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, (see (2) Note).
172, Earth Working, subclasses 35+ for driven earth working
tools, and see the Search Class notes in this subclass for
the line.
173, Tool Driving or Impacting, subclasses 25+ for a tool
driving or impacting means mounted on a wheeled vehicle, in
which the vehicle motor is mechanically coupled to the means
to drive or impact a tool, and subclass 27 for a vehicle
motor and drive motor powered by the same energy source.
222, Dispensing, subclass 627 for a driven dispensing means
which is carried on, or pulled or pushed by, a motor vehicle
and wherein the means is driven by the motor of the vehicle.
242, Winding, Tensioning, or Guiding, subclass 390.7 for a
reeling device driven by a vehicle motor, 392 for a spool
mounted on a vehicle wheel, and 391+ for a traction driven
reel spool.
464, Rotary Shafts, Gudgeons, Housings, and Flexible
Couplings for Rotary Shafts, (see (2) Note).
Subclass:
53.2
Other machine is creeper drive on motor vehicle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 53.1. Devices
wherein the other machine is a speed reducing transmission
which enables the motor vehicle to move at a slow speed to
permit the machinery on the vehicle to perform a function
related to that slow speed.
Subclass:
53.3
Other machine mounted by three point hitch (i.e.,
ford-ferguson hitch):
This subclass is indented under subclass 53.1. Devices
wherein the other machine is mounted on the motor vehicle by
a lifting hitch having three connecting linkages, at least
one of which is powered to raise and lower the other machine
between a use and nonuse (i.e., transporting) position.
(1) Note. Such hitches are known as the Ford-Ferguson
hitch.
Subclass:
53.4
Hydraulic drive to other machine:
This subclass is indented under subclass 53.1. Devices
wherein the motor vehicle motor drives a hydraulic drive
system which in turn drives the other machine.
Subclass:
53.5
Electric drive to other machine:
This subclass is indented under subclass 53.1. Devices
wherein the motor vehicle motor drives an electric power
system which in turn drives the other machine.
Subclass:
53.6
Drive to other machine by power take-off (PTO) driven by
wheel or axle of motor vehicle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 53.1. Drives wherein
the other machine is driven by drive means connected to or
forming part of the driven axle or wheels of the motor
vehicle.
Subclass:
53.61
PTO mounted directly on or engaging drive wheel to rotate
therewith:
This subclass is indented under subclass 53.6. Devices
wherein the drive means for the other machine is rigidly
mounted on or engages the drive wheel of the motor vehicle
and rotates with the drive wheel.
Subclass:
53.62
PTO constantly driven with wheel selectively drive:
This subclass is indented under subclass 53.6. Devices
wherein the drive means to the other machine is constantly
driven by the axle and means are provided to selectively
couple the axle to the wheel to drive the latter.
Subclass:
53.7
Drive to other machine by power take-off (PTO) at front end
of vehicle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 53.1. Devices
wherein the other machine is driven by drive means connected
to the forward end of an engine mounted on the front end of
the motor vehicle.
(1) Note. The connection is usually to the forward end of
the crankshaft of the engine.
Subclass:
53.8
Other machine is vehicle accessory:
This subclass is indented under subclass 53.1. Devices
wherein the other machine is a vehicle accessory (i.e.,
windshield wiper, air conditioning system, etc.) and the
invention is in the drive means to the vehicle accessory.
(1) Note. Where the invention is in the accessory and not
the drive means therefore, the invention is classified with
the accessory in the appropriate class and subclass.
Subclass:
54.1
POWER:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Inventions in which the distinguishing feature of the
invention relating to the apparatus for producing power,
usually its location and arrangement relative to the
vehicle.
(1) Note. When a patent contains claims involving the
structure of the vehicle in connection with the motor or
power-plant, or the location and arrangement of the motor or
power-plant relative to the vehicle, it is placed in this
class. The mere mention of a vehicle broadly, or of such
parts as are necessarily involved in the definition of a
vehicle, in a claim which is in other respects drawn to the
specific construction of the motor or power-plant does not
cause such an assignment, the classification being then based
on the motor or power-plant structure. A search therefore
for a motor or power-plant shown in connection with a
conventional vehicle must be made in the motor or power-plant
classes (e.g., Classes 60, 91, 123, 185, 290, 310, and 415).
(2) Note. The vehicles of this subclass and the subclasses
indented thereunder are four-wheeled vehicles of usual
wheel-base.
(3) Note. Motors mounted so as to be moved to place a
pulley in contact with the tire of a road-wheel will be found
in Class 74, Machine Element or Mechanism, subclasses 13+,
unless specific vehicle structure is included, in which case
they will be found in this class, subclasses 342+.
(4) Note. Motors movable on a frame to enable the
power-shaft to drive different shafts, and so change the
speed or direction, will be found in Class 74, Machine
Element or Mechanism, in appropriate subclasses of Gearing,
unless specific vehicle structure is claimed, in which case
they will be found in this class, subclasses 364+.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
283 for a motor vehicle provided with safety-promoting means
which responds to a sensing of acceleration, deceleration, or
tilt of the vehicle in a manner whereby the ignition circuit
is interrupted.
284 for a motor vehicle provided with safety-promoting means
which responds in the manner of the means of subclass 283
noted above and which further responds by impeding the flow
of fuel.
subclasses 342+ (see (3) Note).
subclasses 364+ (see (4) Note).
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, (see (3) Note and (4)
Note).
Subclass:
54.2
With spring powered motor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 54.1. Power plant
apparatus wherein the power plant includes an energy storing
mechanical motor.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
185, Motors: Spring, Weight, or Animal Powered, appropriate
subclasses for spring motors, per se.
Subclass:
55
This subclass is indented under subclass 54.1. Inventions
relating to the mounting of the power plant partly or wholly
on the lower running-gear--i.e., wheels, axles, and their
immediate attachments, such as underframes and springs. The
body-frame is not included as part of the lower
running-gear.
(1) Note. When the mounting of some other part of the power
plant than the motor and the mounting of the motor constitute
the invention, the patent is classified according to the
motor-mounting and a cross-reference, if necessary, placed in
the subclass in which the rest of the invention would be
placed if claimed, per se.
(2) Note. In the instance of a vehicle wheel which contains
a motor for driving the wheel, classification is in a motor
class as long as the wheel is claimed in such a manner as to
amount to no more than a nominal load for the motor.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
310, Electrical Generator or Motor Structure, subclass 67
for dynamoelectric devices incorporated within some other
unit or device such as a vehicle wheel.
Subclass:
56
This subclass is indented under subclass 55. Power plant
mounted on the rear axle and on a body or body-frame
spring-mounted on the rear axle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
63 for motor moving with axle relatively to body.
Subclass:
57
This subclass is indented under subclass 56. Power plant
drive effected by means of a fore-and-aft shaft.
Subclass:
58
This subclass is indented under subclass 55. Power apparatus
mounted on the frame connecting the axles.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
55 for frames carrying a motor or power-plant and mounted by
means of springs on both axles or mounted pivotally on the
front axle and by springs on the rear axle.
61 for frames carrying a motor or power-plant and mounted
pivotally on the rear axle and by springs on the front axle.
Subclass:
59
This subclass is indented under subclass 58. Power plants
mounted pivotally on a rear axle and by means of springs from
an underframe of which the rear axle forms a part.
Subclass:
60
This subclass is indented under subclass 58. Electric-power
apparatus mounted on an underframe.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
59 for electric-power apparatus pivotally mounted on a
driving-axle and spring-mounted at the other end of an
underframe.
Subclass:
61
This subclass is indented under subclass 55. Power apparatus
carried by a frame or casing pivoted to the rear or driving
axle at one end and supported resiliently at the other end by
some part of the running-gear other than the body-frame or
the underframe.
Subclass:
62
This subclass is indented under subclass 55. Power apparatus
mounted on the rear or driving axle.
Subclass:
63
This subclass is indented under subclass 54.1. Motors mounted
on the body or body-frame and moving relatively to its
support, the rear axle being connected with the motor, so
that as the body moves up and down relatively to the axle,
the distance from the motor-shaft to the axle is kept
constant.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
105, Railway Rolling-Stock, subclass 3, for articulated
trains.
384, Bearings, appropriate subclasses for bearing of general
use.
Subclass:
65.1
Electric:
This subclass is indented under subclass 54.1. Vehicles
wherein an electric motor in the body or on the body-frame
drives the vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
6.48 for vehicles wherein electric motors are selectively
driven to steer the vehicle.
60 for a motor vehicle having its power plant mounted on its
lower running gear and wherein that running gear comprises
the frame which connects the axles and further wherein the
power plant is an electric motor.
214 for a motor vehicle having a wheel arrangement
comprising three wheels and wherein at least one wheel is
both steerable and driven and further wherein the vehicle's
motor is mounted to swing with that wheel, and wherein, in
addition, the motor is electrical in nature.
216 for a motor vehicle having a wheel arrangement
comprising three wheels and wherein two wheels, which wheels
have a common axis, are driven and further wherein the
vehicle's motor is electrical in nature.
220 for a motor vehicle having a wheel arrangement
comprising two wheels in tandem relationship and wherein the
vehicles motor is of the electrical type.
subclasses 242+ for a motor vehicle having four wheels
driven and wherein the means for driving one or more of the
wheels may be an electric motor.
298 for a motor vehicle wherein the motor and the body frame
are particularly related to one another and wherein is
included means which enables the repositioning of the motor
relative to the body frame; as explained in (2) Note of that
subclass (298), the motor may be a prime mover of the
battery, or of the motor-generator, type.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
191, Electricity: Transmission to Vehicles, for inventions
relating to the transmission of electrical energy from fixed
points to vehicles and not involving specific vehicle
structure nor specific means for applying the electrical
energy to any specific purpose.
290, Prime-Mover Dynamo Plants, subclass 45, and the
subclasses (e.g., 9+, 22+, 27-29) indented under Electric
Control, for power-plants for motor-vehicles, including a
prime mover, a generator, and one or more motors. Patents
herein do not include claims for structure specific to
vehicles nor for inventions relating to the mounting of
electric-power-plant structure relative to a vehicle.
310, Electrical Generator or Motor Structure, appropriate
subclasses for electric motors designed for motor vehicles
but not involving vehicle features.
320, Electricity: Battery or Capacitor Charging or
Discharging, appropriate subclass for charging a vehicular
battery.
Subclass:
65.2
Combined with nonelectric drive means:
This subclass is indented under subclass 65.1. Vehicles
wherein the electric motor is combined with a prime mover,
other than another electric motor, for driving the vehicle.
(1) Note. The electric motor and the prime mover may act on
the same or different wheels of the vehicle and may be usable
alternately or jointly but both remain on the vehicle at all
times.
(2) Note. This subclass is intended to include a
prime-mover-generator-electric motor drive train provided
they are all mechanically interconnected with the drive
wheels. Such an apparatus is known as a hybrid drive
vehicle. Vehicles where only the electric motor portion of
the combination is mechanically connected to the drive wheels
will be found in the class subclass 65.4. Vehicles where
nonelectric drive means is provided by the physical effort of
the vehicle occupants, will be found in this class,
subclasses 205+.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
65.4 (see (2) Note).
subclasses 205+ (see (2) Note).
Subclass:
65.3
With means on vehicle for generating power for the electric
motor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 65.1. Vehicles
wherein the electric motor is supplied with electric power
generated by means carried on the vehicle.
(1) Note. The generating means may be a generator driven a
prime mover or the running gear of the vehicle including the
drive wheels, the drive axle, drive shaft or shock absorbing
means. The drive may be direct or indirect through an energy
conversion mechanisms. Although the systems in this and the
indented subclass may include batteries, for purposes of this
subclass, a storage battery is not considered to be means for
generating electric power.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
2.2 for generating means on a vehicle driven by a wind motor
or in the form of a solar cell.
Subclass:
65.4
Generating means is driven by a prime mover:
This subclass is indented under subclass 65.3. Vehicles
wherein the means for generating power for the electric motor
is driven by a prime mover other than another electric
motor.
(1) Note. The prime mover is usually a gasoline or diesel
engine and the drive system is usually referred to as a
gas-electric or diesel-electric drive.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
65.2 for vehicles wherein the prime mover is also connected
to the vehicle wheels to form a hybrid drive.
Subclass:
65.5
With motor in or moveable with wheel:
This subclass is indented under subclass 65.1. Vehicles
wherein the electric motor is mounted in the wheel to form
part of the wheel or is mounted on the wheel to move with the
wheel as the wheel moves relative to the vehicle body or
frame.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
55 for wheel mounted motors other than electric or
hydraulic.
308 for hydraulically driven motors mounted in or on the
wheels.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
310, Electrical Generator or Motor Structure, subclass 67,
for electric motors combined with wheels.
Subclass:
65.6
With gearing between electric motor and drive wheel:
This subclass is indented under subclass 65.1. Vehicles
wherein the electric motor is connected to the drive wheels
by a mechanical transmission means comprising intermeshing
gears.
(1) Note. The gearing means is usually used to permit the
motor and drive wheels to rotate at different speeds.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 337+ for gear transmissions in combination with
vehicles not limited by the recitation of an electric motor.
Subclass:
65.7
Gearing is changeable ratio gearing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 65.6. Vehicles
wherein the transmission is provided with means whereby the
ratio of the motor speed to the wheel speed can be
selectively changed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 364+ for variable speed transmissions in
vehicles without an electric motor.
Subclass:
65.8
With electronic devices (logic gates, semi-conductors, vacuum
tubes, etc.) in control circuit:
This subclass is indented under subclass 65.1. Vehicles
wherein the electric motor is controlled by a circuit that
includes electronic devices such as logic gates,
semi-conductors or vacuum tubes in the circuit.
(1) Note. The motor and circuit must be claimed in
combination with features limited to a motor vehicle for
placement in this subclass. Control circuits utilizing only
normally standard switches, relays or regulators are excluded
from this subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
318, Electricity: Motive Power Systems, appropriate
subclasses for control circuits not claimed in combination
with a vehicle.
Subclass:
68.1
With means to guide and/or control air for power plant
cooling:
This subclass is indented under subclass 54.1. Power plant
apparatus wherein the vehicle is provided with means for
directing cooling air to the power plant for its cooling.
(1) Note. This subclass includes means to guide air to the
radiator of a liquid cooled engine, housings for the power
plant and having air guide means and air cooled engines in
combination with a motor vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
123, International-Combustion Engines, subclass 41.01, for
cooling systems for internal combustion engines.
Subclass:
68.2
With further means to utilize power plant cooling air for
other purposes:
This subclass is indented under subclass 68.1. Power plant
cooling apparatus wherein the air that is used to cool the
power plant is used to heat or cool the vehicle by either
passing through the vehicle before cooling the engine or by
passing into the vehicle after cooling the engine or for
other purposes.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
237, Heating Systems, subclass 12.3, for heating devices
wherein the vehicle is claimed only nominally.
Subclass:
68.3
With means to guide and/or control combustion air for power
plant:
This subclass is indented under subclass 54.1. Power plant
apparatus wherein the vehicle is provided with means to guide
and/or control air provided to the power plant for combustion
purposes.
(1) Note. The guide means may be part of the vehicle frame
or may be mounted on the hood covering the power plant.
Subclass:
68.4
Radiators and condensers, mounting:
This subclass is indented under subclass 54.1. Apparatus for
mounting a radiator condenser on a vehicle-body or
body-frame.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
165, Heat Exchange, subclasses 41+, for a heat exchanger
installed on a vehicle; subclasses 67+, for an external
support for a heat exchanger; and subclass 149, for a
radiator case having a frame or edge cover means.
Subclass:
68.5
This subclass is indented under subclass 54.1. Apparatus
including cradles, holders, hold-downs, and supports for
battery cells on motor vehicles.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
105, Railway Rolling Stock, subclass 51 for electric
locomotive battery holders.
224, Package and Article Carriers, subclasses 400+ for
vehicle-mounted carriers generally.
248, Supports, subclasses 500+ for hold-downs of general
utility.
429, Chemistry: Electrical Current Producing Apparatus,
Product, and Process, subclasses 96+ for battery supports.
Subclass:
68.6
With protector for the radiator or condenser:
This subclass is indented under subclass 68.4. Radiator or
condenser mountings having combined therewith a protector
positioned in front of the radiator or condenser, to fend off
foreign objects which would otherwise strike the radiator or
condenser.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
160, Flexible or Portable Closure, Partition, or Panel,
appropriate subclasses for flexible panels, per se.
293, Vehicle Fenders, subclass 115, for radiator guards which
also serve as a fender or bumper for the vehicle.
Subclass:
69.1
This subclass is indented under subclass 54.1. Devices
including dust, protective, or drip pans adapted to be
attached beneath the engines of automobiles.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
184, Lubrication, subclass 106 for a device placed beneath a
bearing for catching unused oil.
Subclass:
69.2
Hoods:
This subclass is indented under subclass 54.1. Covers for the
power plants of motor-vehicles.
(1) Note. The inclusion of a radiator or dashboard in a
claim for a motor- cover is deemed to restrict it to use on
a vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
289 for a motor vehicle having means for promoting its
safety, which means may be in the nature of a device,
mechanism, or system for either (1) repositioning the hood of
the vehicle or (2) operating a means for locking the hood,
the moving or the securing of the hood being for the purpose
of preventing unauthorized or unintended access or use.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
16, Miscellaneous Hardware, subclass 221 for hinges for
automobile hoods.
70, Locks, subclass 240 and 241 for devices for locking
hoods to vehicle-frames.
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, subclass 606 for
motor-covers of general applications.
Subclass:
69.21
Pivoted about horizontal axis extending transversely of
vehicle (e.g., alligator type or front end pivot):
This subclass is indented under subclass 69.2. Power plant
covers wherein the cover is pivoted about a horizontal axis
extending transversely off the vehicle.
(1) Note. The cover is usually of one place construction
and the pivot may be at either the forward end or the rear
end of the cover. The cover may also be provided with an
operator for the cover.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
49, Moveable or Removable Closures, appropriate subclasses
for closures and operators therefor.
Subclass:
69.22
With noise suppression means:
This subclass is indented under subclass 69.2. Power plant
covers wherein the cover is provided with means to reduce the
transmission of acoustical vibrations caused by the operation
of the power plant or by the movement of the cover relative
to the vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
181, Acoustics, subclasses 284+, for sound absorbing panels.
Subclass:
69.23
Noise suppression means prevents hood from vibrating (i.e.,
anti-rattlers):
This subclass is indented under subclass 69.22. Power plant
covers wherein the noise suppression means is attached to one
of the vehicle frame or the cover and engages the other to
prevent acoustical vibration from being transferred between
the cover and the vehicle frame.
Subclass:
69.24
With access openings having moveable or removable closures:
This subclass is indented under subclass 69.2. Power plant
covers wherein the cover is provided with openings to permit
access to portions of the power plant without opening the
cover completely, said openings being provided with suitable
closures pivoted to or removable from the cover.
(1) Note. These openings are usually to permit access to
the battery filler caps, the dipsticks, the radiator cap or
other items involved in routine servicing of the power
plant.
Subclass:
69.25
Water deflectors:
This subclass is indented under subclass 69.2. Devices
forming a part of the hood or adapted for use with a
conventional hood for deflecting water from the engine
compartment of a motor vehicle.
Subclass:
69.3
With means to increase idle speed of internal combustion
engine to compensate for accessory load:
This subclass is indented under subclass 54.1. Power plant
apparatus wherein the power plant is an internal combustion
engine and means are provided to increase automatically the
idle speed of the engine when accessories to be driven by the
engine are connected to drive means driven by the engine.
Subclass:
69.4
With fuel supply for internal combustion engine:
This subclass is indented under subclass 54.1. Power plant
apparatus wherein the power plant is an internal combustion
engine and the vehicle is provided with means to provide fuel
to the engine, said fuel supply means being connected to the
means controlling the operation of the engine.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
123, Internal-Combustion Engines, appropriate subclasses for
internal combustion engines, per se, with fuel supply means.
280, Land Vehicles, subclasses 834+ for a general utility
land vehicle including a boiler or tank wherein the tank
forms a container or receptacle for a fluid for use by a
prime mover to produce propulsion.
Subclass:
69.5
Engine uses gaseous fuel:
This subclass is indented under subclass 69.4. Power plant
fuel supply apparatus wherein the power plant uses a normally
gaseous fuel and means are provided on the vehicle for
storing or generating the fuel.
(1) Note. The fuel may be stored in gaseous form such as
propane, in liquid for such as LPG or may be generated and
stored by means carried on the vehicle or on a trailer
attached to the vehicle.
Subclass:
69.6
Vehicle has plural power plants:
This subclass is indented under subclass 54.1. Power plant
apparatus wherein the vehicle has two or more separate power
plants mounted on a single body or body frame.
(1) Note. The power plants may be used individually or
simultaneously and the operation of one may control the
operation of the other.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
14.2 for vehicle trains with more than one power plant.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
475, Planetary Gear Transmission Systems or Components,
subclasses 1+ for plural motors driving a planetary gear
transmission lacking significant vehicle structure.
477, Interrelated Power Delivery Controls, Including Engine
Control, subclasses 2+ for plural motors with interrelated
control between a transmission clutch, or brake, and lacking
significant vehicle structure.
Subclass:
76
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Miscellaneous devices for allowing a driven road-wheel to
turn faster than the corresponding wheel on the other side
when the resistance that it meets is less than that of the
other.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 200+ for a motor vehicle provided with powered,
ground-engaging means for producing, or assisting in the
production of, lateral movement of the vehicle (e.g., for
parking) and wherein the means comprises a rotatably driven
auxiliary wheel or endless track, the drive train for which
wheel or track may include the vehicle's differential.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, subclasses 640+ for
compensating mechanism other than planetary gearing
connecting the adjacent ends of two shafts and subclass 575
for pawls and ratchets connecting one or more wheels to a
shaft.
192, Clutches and Power-Stop Control, subclasses 41+ for
pawl-and-ratchet and other overrunning clutches.
475, Planetary Gear Transmission Systems or Components,
subclasses 220+ for planetary gear differentials.
Subclass:
78
This subclass is indented under subclass 315. Controlling
devices mounted on the steering post or handle.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, subclasses 484+ and 491+
for hand and/or foot operated control lever and linkage
systems.
123, Internal-Combustion Engines, subclass 319, per se, for
manually controlled speed regulators.
361, Electricity: Electrical Systems and Devices, subclasses
600+, especially subclass 627 for panel board-type
switchboards.
Subclass:
84
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Devices
for preventing the cloud of dust raised by the vehicle from
settling on the occupants or the vehicle claimed in
combination with a feature limited to a motor-vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
280, Land Vehicles, subclasses 847+ for dust-guards for
vehicles in general.
454, Ventilation, subclasses 96+ for dust-guards used on
railway-vehicles.
Subclass:
89.1
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Body
structure claimed in combination with a feature limited to a
motor vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
54.1 and indented subclasses, for inventions relating to the
mounting of a power plant in a body.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
296, Land Vehicles: Bodies and Tops, appropriate subclasses,
for vehicle body construction in general.
Subclass:
89.11
This subclass is indented under subclass 89.1. Apparatus
wherein the passenger compartment of a motor vehicle is
provided with either I, an article receiving compartment or
receptacle means or II, a means which may include a
compartment or receptacle whereby articles such as litter or
trash may be positively removed from within the passenger
compartment of a vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
296, Land Vehicles: Bodies and Tops, subclass 37.8 for
auxiliary article compartments accessible from within the
passenger compartment of a vehicle.
Subclass:
89.12
This subclass is indented under subclass 89.1. Apparatus in
which a motor vehicle other than what is normally considered
to be a roadway type vehicle (e.g., automobile, truck, bus,
etc.) is provided with an enclosed operator's compartment or
station.
(1) Note. Cabs for tractors, self-propelled farm machines,
bulldozers, etc., are classified here providing no specific
art structure is claimed. This subclass will take a
nominally claimed bulldozer, harvester, etc.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
296, Land Vehicles: Bodies and Tops, subclass 102 and
190.01+ for similar structure where no vehicle features for
Classes 180 and 280 are claimed.
Subclass:
89.13
This subclass is indented under subclass 89.1. Apparatus
wherein the body or the vehicle comprises a compartment or
portion for occupation by the vehicle operator, the
compartment or portion being shiftable to at least one other
position or attitude on the vehicle.
(1) Note. For classification here the cab or operator's
station in its entirety is movable to an adjusted or
alternate position. Where a portion only of an otherwise
fixed cab or operator's station is moved to an adjusted or
alternate position, classification is in subclass 89.18 of
this class.
Subclass:
89.14
This subclass is indented under subclass 89.13. Apparatus
wherein the compartment or portion is pivotally attached to
the frame of the vehicle whereby it is shiftable to an
alternate attitude or position.
Subclass:
89.15
This subclass is indented under subclass 89.14. Apparatus
wherein the compartment is shifted to its alternate attitude
or position by either I, a motive means movable by the
application of a pressurized fluid or II, a linkage or other
gearing provided a mechanical advantage to a user for
positively moving the compartment or portion.
Subclass:
89.16
This subclass is indented under subclass 89.13. Apparatus
wherein the compartment occupied by the vehicle operator is
positioned at least partially above the motor of the
vehicle.
Subclass:
89.17
This subclass is indented under subclass 89.1. Apparatus
wherein the motor vehicle comprises body parts movable to
alternate positions, the movable body parts providing an
entrance-way to the vehicle motor.
Subclass:
89.18
This subclass is indented under subclass 89.17. Apparatus
wherein the body parts movable to alternate positions
comprises either the seat means or other part (e.g., floor)
of the vehicle operator's compartment.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
89.13 for a cab or operator's station movable in its
entirety to an adjusted or alternate position.
Subclass:
89.19
This subclass is indented under subclass 89.1. Apparatus
wherein the compartment occupied by the vehicle operator is
positioned at least partially above the motor of the
vehicle.
Subclass:
89.2
With means for handling exhaust of a motor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 89.1. Apparatus
wherein the feature comprises means for receiving,
conducting, or otherwise handling the products of combustion
discharged from a motor utilized for propelling a vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
296 as explained in subclass 309.
309 for a motor vehicle which is provided with means for
receiving, conducting, or otherwise handling the products of
combustion discharged from its motor.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
60, Power Plants, subclasses 272+ as explained in the
reference thereto appearing in subclass 296.
181, Acoustics, subclasses 121+ as explained in the
reference thereto appearing in subclass 296.
248, Supports, subclasses 49+ as explained in the reference
thereto appearing in subclass 296.1.
293, Vehicle Fenders, subclass 113 as explained in the
reference thereto appearing in subclass 296.
Subclass:
90
This subclass is indented under subclass 89.1. Dashboards
claimed in connection with a feature limited to a motor
vehicle.
(1) Note. May include the disposition or arrangements of
control or other instruments on the dashboard.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
315 for controlling devices for motor vehicles.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
175, Boring or Penetrating the Earth, subclass 298 for
panels and switch-boards which are of general application for
mounting electrical devices.
Subclass:
90.6
This subclass is indented under subclass 89.1. Inventions in
the footboards of motor vehicles and in wind and heat guards
for the same, usually in connection with the pedal openings.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, subclasses 18+, for a
flexible sealing diaphragm attached to a moving rod and to a
casing, and subclasses 469+, for levers and for guards and
devices of this nature claimed significantly in combination
with levers.
296, Land Vehicles: Bodies and Tops, appropriate subclasses
for the floor, or a floor-related feature, of a vehicle
body.
Subclass:
116
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Vehicles comprising means maintaining a working fluid mass,
i.e., a cushion or film of fluid, between a surface of the
vehicle and a reaction supporting surface, to cause a force
to act on the vehicle to repel the vehicle from the
supporting surface so as to sustain the vehicle in lift
above, but in close proximity to, the supporting surface, the
said fluid issuing from the vehicle.
(1) Note. This definition is intended to cover an art
collection of surface effect vehicles and no motor propulsion
means need be disclosed or intended to be used. The vehicle
may be a broadly recited art device and no specific vehicle
structure need be claimed. The fluid cushion may be
identified as merely a support, it being assumed for purposes
of this definition, that a fluid cushion support is intended
and is inherently capable of use in moving any device or load
over a surface in the manner of a vehicle. A subcombination
of the vehicle comprising the surface effect producing means
is classifiable under this definition.
(2) Note. Subject matter under this definition includes a
vehicle having wheels or wheel substitutes and a separate or
auxiliary surface effect producing means.
(3) Note. The "reaction supporting surface" in the
definition may be any surface (e.g., water, etc.) other than
one which is a part (e.g., a track, etc.) of the vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
164 for a motor vehicle having powered means for creating a
fluid force to attract the vehicle to a surface on which it
may travel, and see the reference to this subclass (116) in
(2) Note thereof.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
56, Harvesters, subclass 10.1, for air cushion supported
rotary cutting lawn mowers.
104, Railways, appropriate subclasses for railways having
track guided surface effect vehicles.
105, Railway Rolling Stock, appropriate subclasses for
transportation equipment for railways having a surface effect
means.
114, Ships, appropriate subclasses, especially subclass 67,
for surface effect marine vehicles having propulsion means
extending in and acting against the water, as well as devices
peculiar to water borne vehicles.
244, Aeronautics, subclass 12.1 and 23 for fluid sustained
aircraft operating in both ground effect and free flight
conditions. Class 180 takes ground effect machines which
utilize the action of a working fluid mass against a reaction
surface to effect a limited lifting of the vehicle, but do
not provide sufficient vertical thrust that would enable such
to attain a free flight condition, i.e., where the earth's
surface has no effect on the vehicle, the latter being
provided for by Class 244.
305, Wheel Substitutes for Land Vehicles, appropriate
subclasses for wheel substitutes, per se, with the exception
of the fluid supported surface effect devices provided for by
this subclass.
414, Material or Article Handling, subclass 676 for an
article supported by one or more columns of air issuing from
a surface beneath the article and wherein the article is
moved laterally relative to the surface by mechanical or
manual means.
434, Education and Demonstration, subclasses 30+, for
aircraft operation teaching devices using fluid supported
training apparatus to simulate "in space" conditions.
Subclass:
117
This subclass is indented under subclass 116. A vehicle
comprising means to propel the vehicle or control the
direction of movement, attitude, or propulsion of the
vehicle.
Subclass:
118
This subclass is indented under subclass 117. A vehicle in
which a condition indicative of instability of the vehicle
(e.g., a variation of cushion or curtain pressure, a
variation of the height of the vehicle above the supporting
surface, etc.) causes operation of the propulsion or control
means without the intervention of a human operator.
Subclass:
119
This subclass is indented under subclass 117. A vehicle
wherein the propulsion or control means has at least a
portion thereof in contact with the supporting surface.
Subclass:
120
This subclass is indented under subclass 117. A vehicle
wherein at least part of the working fluid is utilized as the
propulsion or control means.
Subclass:
121
This subclass is indented under subclass 120. A vehicle
wherein the working fluid is utilized to produce a plurality
of separate fluid cushions.
Subclass:
122
This subclass is indented under subclass 120. A vehicle
wherein the working fluid is utilized to produce a fluid
cushion which is at least in part, supplied from and confined
by a dynamic seal or fluid curtain.
Subclass:
123
This subclass is indented under subclass 116. A vehicle
provided with means to diminish the undesirable effect of the
upward spray or debris occasioned by the action of the fluid
against the supporting surface, e.g., lateral deflectors,
shields, etc.
Subclass:
124
This subclass is indented under subclass 116. A vehicle
provided with a chamber means which is expanded or inflated
by the admission of the working fluid to support the weight
of the vehicle and supply the working fluid for producing the
surface effect.
Subclass:
125
This subclass is indented under subclass 116. A vehicle
wherein the basal area of the vehicle conforms to the contour
of the supporting surface, usually planar, and is supported
above the surface by a thin film of high pressure fluid.
Subclass:
126
This subclass is indented under subclass 116. A vehicle
wherein the working fluid is contained, at least in part, by
separate side walls which are substantially rigid under
normal conditions of use, are rigidly connected to the
vehicle and extended in the direction of movement of the
vehicle.
Subclass:
127
This subclass is indented under subclass 116. A vehicle
provided with a flexible skirt suspended from the basal area
of the vehicle for confining at least a portion of the
working fluid.
Subclass:
128
This subclass is indented under subclass 127. A vehicle
wherein the flexible skirt is provided with an outlet to
supply and maintain the working fluid.
Subclass:
129
This subclass is indented under subclass 116. A vehicle
wherein the working fluid is, at least partially, supplied
and maintained by a dynamic seal or fluid curtain.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
122 for propulsion or control means for a surface effect
vehicle utilizing a dynamic seal or fluid curtain.
Subclass:
130
This subclass is indented under subclass 129. A vehicle
wherein the dynamic seal or fluid curtain has a fluid
recovery means.
Subclass:
164
WITH POWERED MEANS FOR CREATING FLUID FORCE TO ATTRACT
VEHICLE TO SURFACE OF TRAVEL:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Vehicle
provided with a fluid-moving device (e.g., blower, fan)
driven by the vehicle's propulsion motor or by an auxiliary
motor, for causing a flow of fluid (ordinarily air) away from
all or a portion of the region between the vehicle and a
surface on or along which it may travel (usually a
vehicle-underlying surface) and with such confining structure
(e.g., apron, seal) for the region as may be necessary to
cause the flow of fluid therefrom to result in a
less-than-ambient pressure in the region, thus causing the
vehicle to be attracted to the surface (by a force greater
than that of gravity when the surface is a vehicle-underlying
one).
(1) Note. The art of this subclass is not limited to the
scope of the class definition; rather, the subclass has been
utilized as a collecting point for load transporting devices,
not otherwise provided for, which devices may lack the
propulsion motor of a motor vehicle and, in fact, may amount
to no more than a movable load transporting platform;
however, the devices do meet the requirement of having a
powered (ordinarily by an onboard power plant) means for
developing the suction-creating, fluid flow.
(2) Note. The devices of this subclass occasionally have
the alternative capability of maintaining a cushion of fluid
between themselves and a reaction-supporting surface (e.g.,
by a reversal of the direction of fluid flow) as provided for
in subclasses 116+ below; cross-reference copies of patents
to such devices are found in the appropriate subclass of that
area (subclasses 116+). In rare instances, the attractive
force of this subclass (164) and the fluid cushion of
subclasses 116+ may be operative simultaneously in different
regions of a single device.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 116+ for a motor vehicle of the surface effect
type, and see (2) Note above.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
248, Supports, subclass 362 for a vacuum hold-down.
Subclass:
165
WITH FLUID OR MECHANICAL MEANS TO ACCUMULATE ENERGY (I)
DERIVED FROM MOTION OF VEHICLE OR (II) OBTAINED FROM
OPERATION OF VEHICLE MOTOR, AND GIVE UP THE ENERGY (1) WHEN
NEEDED FOR VEHICLE ACCELERATION OR (2) TO POWER AN AUXILIARY
SYSTEM OF THE VEHICLE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Vehicle
provided with means of a fluid or a mechanical nature (e.g.,
pressure reservoir, flywheel) to receive and retain energy
which (I) results from the momentum of the vehicle in
ordinary travel, or any other movement of all or part of the
vehicle ancillary thereto, or (II) is produced by the
operation of the motor of the vehicle (which operation may or
may not serve simultaneously a vehicle propelling purpose)
which means will, upon demand, feed back the stored energy
(1) to aid in starting up or increasing the speed of the
vehicle or (2) to drive or otherwise operate a system of the
vehicle which serves other than a propelling purpose.
(1) Note. This subclass was established during the project
which reclassified former subclasses 1, 3+, 25+, 42+, 64,
66+, 82+, and 115 and is intended to provide a locus for
collecting art which relates to certain aspects of conserving
the energy required for the operation of a motor vehicle.
The art initially placed here was assembled primarily from
the informal records of an examiner in the class and
secondarily from screening the subclasses listed above; while
the collection is believed to be relatively complete, also,
insofar as the nonreclassified portion of the class is
concerned, it may presently contain only a minor portion of
such relevant art as exists in other classes. Inasmuch as the
development of a subclass of this nature was beyond the
original scope of the project, it was necessary to keep the
subclass concept relatively narrow, e.g., to have broadened
it to include energy conservation devices of the kind
commonly associated with electrically propelled vehicles
would have involved reviewing such relatively large fields of
art as dynamic braking, motors which may function
alternatively as generators, etc.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
60, Power Plants, subclass 408 for a motor and a source of
fluid for driving the motor, and wherein the fluid is in the
form of a gas which is supplied to or removed from the motor
by, e.g., a pump, and wherein is further provided a storage
vessel for serving as the gas supplying or removing device
and additionally wherein the motor is a unit which is usable
either as a motor (when driven by gas from the charged
storage vessel) or as a pump (when used to charge the
vessel); and subclasses 413+ for a motor and a source of
fluid for driving the motor, and wherein is provided
structure that stores energy and also a manual or condition
responsive means for controlling either the input to the
storage means or the output therefrom.
280, Land Vehicles, subclasses 212+ for a land vehicle of
the wheeled type provided with positive means adapting it to
be propelled by an occupant, and wherein the means is one
operable by the occupant, and further wherein is additionally
provided a means for storing energy, which energy is expended
in driving the vehicle.
Subclass:
166
WHEELED INFANT CARRIAGE OR CRIB WITH DRIVEN MEANS FOR
RECIPROCATING IT LONGITUDINALLY:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising a vehicle of the kind used for resting
or transporting an infant, and motor means for moving the
vehicle back and forth in a direction parallel to its
longitudinal axis.
(1) Note. The purpose of the movement is to quiet or relax
the infant, induce it to sleep, etc. To further promote such
relaxation, etc., it is not uncommon to also provide means
for rocking the infant supporting portion of the vehicle
relative to the remainder thereof.
(2) Note. A vehicle of this subclass is propelled manually
when being utilized to transport the infant, and, from that
standpoint, is a vehicle for Class 280. However, the presence
of a motor means, which means propels the vehicle in its
direction of travel, albeit to a limited extent, is
considered to make this class (180) the more appropriate
locus.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
5, Beds, subclass 109 for an infant crib provided with motor
means for imparting a rocking (e.g., a to-and-fro) movement
thereto.
185, Motors: Spring, Weight, or Animal Powered, subclasses
37+ for a motor in which the prime mover is a spring.
280, Land Vehicles, subclass 47.34 for a vehicle of that
class which is stable when traveling and is provided with
handle means whereby it may be propelled by an attendant; and
see particularly subclasses 47.38+ thereunder.
Subclass:
167
WITH MEANS FOR CONTROLLING OPERATION RESPONSIVE TO
ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION, MAGNETIC FORCE, OR SOUND WAVES
RECEIVED FROM SOURCE, OR REFLECTED FROM OBJECT OR SURFACE,
LOCATED APART FROM VEHICLE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Vehicle
provided with means for regulating its operation (e.g.,
starting, steering, stopping), which means responds to
electromagnetic radiation (e.g., radio rays, light rays,
gamma rays) or magnetic force or sound waves, and wherein the
radiation, force, or waves are either sent to the vehicle
from a location remote therefrom or else are reflected to the
vehicle (e.g., an on-board source creates the radiation,
force, or waves) from an object or surface at such a
location.
(1) Note. The control of a vehicle by an operator located
apart therefrom, and utilizing an electrical conductor, one
end of which travels with the vehicle, to transmit signals
thereto, does not constitute subject matter for this and the
indented subclasses.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
2.1 for a motor vehicle wherein the motor of the vehicle is
supplied with fuel or the equivalent from outside the
vehicle.
subclasses 170+ for a motor vehicle provided with means
which is responsive to the speed of the vehicle for
maintaining its speed at, or preventing if from exceeding, a
particular value.
401 for the combination of a motor vehicle and a land based
steering datum, the vehicle including means for sensing the
datum and for controlling a steering motor in accordance with
the information sensed from the datum.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
244, Aeronautics, subclass 3.11 for the remote control of a
missile; and subclasses 189+ for the remote control, by
apparatus of an electrical nature, of an aircraft.
246, Railway Switches and Signals, appropriate subclasses
(e.g., subclass 182, 186+), for the remote control of a
vehicle of the railway type.
318, Electricity: Motive Power Systems, subclass 16 for the
control of an electric motor by space-transmitted
electromagnetic or electrostatic energy; and subclass 587 for
positional servo systems for guiding a land vehicle about a
single axis.
340, Communications: Electrical, appropriate subclasses
(e.g., subclasses 901+ for the use of electrical energy for
communicating information.
446, Amusement Devices: Toys, subclass 175 or a light or
sound responsive toy; and subclasses 454+ for a remotely
controlled toy vehicle.
Subclass:
168
Having controlling means adapted to interact with stationary
means which describes course of vehicle's travel:
This subclass is indented under subclass 167. Vehicle wherein
the means for regulating the operation of the vehicle is
adapted to function with or under the influence of a means
which is fixed in a position (e.g., embedded in the roadway
which supports the vehicle) and is so configured as to
outline the path which the vehicle is intended to follow.
Subclass:
169
Radiation, force, or waves reflected from external object or
surface:
This subclass is indented under subclass 167. Vehicle wherein
the radiation, force, or waves to which the means responds is
that which is reflected from an object or a surface located
remotely from the vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
168 for a motor vehicle provided with means for controlling
its operation, which means is responsive to electromagnetic
radiation, magnetic force, or sound waves received from a
source, or from an object or surface, located apart from the
vehicle, and wherein the controlling means is adapted to
interact with a stationary means which is of a kind whereby
it describes the intended course of travel of the vehicle.
While the stationary means of that subclass frequently is a
conductor embedded in a pavement, it may also comprise, for
example, a reflecting element on each of a series of roadside
posts.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
342, Communications: Directive Radio Wave Systems and
Devices (e.g., Radar, Radio Navigation), appropriate
subclasses for reflected or otherwise returned wave systems
(e.g., object detection, radar).
Subclass:
170
WITH MEANS RESPONSIVE TO SPEED OF VEHICLE FOR MAINTAINING
SPEED AT, OR PREVENTING IT FROM EXCEEDING, A PARTICULAR
VALUE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Vehicle
provided with means for controlling its rate of movement over
a supporting surface in response to its speed, which
controlling may consist of either (a) preventing it from
exceeding an arbitrarily established, predetermined velocity
or (b) maintaining it at a particular velocity, or velocity
range, selected by the operator of the vehicle.
(1) Note. The means ordinarily includes a device (e.g., a
servomechanism) for operating a velocity-affecting element
(e.g., the throttle) of the vehicle.
(2) Note. A means for preventing the vehicle from exceeding
a particular speed often is identified as a "governor"
whereas a means for maintaining the vehicle at a particular
speed, or within a relatively narrow range of speed,
frequently is designated as a "cruise control"; however, the
two functions frequently are so interrelated as to make it
difficult to identify a device as being particularly adapted
to perform only one, or the other, of the functions.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 167+ for a motor vehicle having means for
controlling its operation responsive to electromagnetic
radiation or magnetic force or sound waves either received
from a source, or reflected from an object or a surface,
located apart from the vehicle, and wherein the controlling
of the operation of the vehicle may include the regulation of
its speed.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
73, Measuring and Testing, subclasses 488+ for a device of
that class which is responsive to speed.
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, subclass 513 for a linkage
system associated with a foot operated accelerator, which
system may include means for locking the accelerator at a
particular point in its travel.
123, Internal-Combustion Engines, subclasses 319+ (see
especially indented subclasses 350+ and 378+) for means for
controlling the speed of an engine, which engine may be the
motor of a vehicle, wherein the means is responsive to a
condition of the engine; and subclass 198 for an accessory
(e.g., a fuel or ignition cutoff device) for an engine.
137, Fluid Handling, subclasses 47+ for a system of that
class which includes a valve and a driven actuator therefor,
which actuator influences the operation of the valve in
accordance with the speed at which it is driven.
192, Clutches and Power-Stop Control, subclass 1.1 for the
joint control of a vehicle engine (e.g., as by a throttle
holder) and a vehicle brake.
246, Railway Switches and Signals, appropriate subclasses for
controlling the speed of a vehicle of the railway type;
however, as indicated in section IV(a) of the class
definition of that class (246), speed control of a vehicle is
elsewhere (as designated therein) "when all of the mechanism
is upon the vehicle and there is no cooperation with devices
on the track or roadway".
361, Electricity: Electrical Systems and Devices, subclass
51 for means for protecting an electrical system or device
by sensing an excessive speed condition and activating a
protective circuit.
388, Electricity: Motor Control Systems, subclasses 800+
and 825+ for single motor running-speed control systems with,
and without, feedback, respectively.
477, Interrelated Power Delivery Controls, Including Engine
Controls, subclass 108 for engine speed control and
interrelated transmission control to achieve constant output
speed, where specific vehicle structure is not claimed.
Subclass:
171
Including device to signal to operator existence of unusual
or unintended speed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 170. Vehicle wherein
the means includes a device to audibly, visibly, or otherwise
indicate to a person controlling the operation of the vehicle
that the vehicle is not traveling at the expected or desired
speed.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, subclass 670 for an
electrical communication device (e.g., an alarm) which is
automatically responsive to velocity (e.g., of a vehicle);
and indented subclasses 671+ for a similar device but wherein
the velocity sensed is that in an angular direction (e.g., a
centrifugal governor).
Subclass:
172
Including device responsive to centrifugal force:
This subclass is indented under subclass 170. Vehicle wherein
the means includes a device for sensing the outward force
resulting from imparting curvilinear or rotational movement
to a mass and for reacting (e.g, by developing a control
signal or force) to that force.
(1) Note. While rotating weights driven at a speed
proportional to that of the vehicle's motor presently
predominate as the device of this subclass, included also,
for example, is the pendulum of a curve compensator (i.e., a
refinement to the regulating means for automatically
adjusting the "set" speed of the means to changes in the
course of the roadway along which the vehicle is traveling).
Subclass:
173
And means to prevent tampering or unauthorized use:
This subclass is indented under subclass 172. Vehicle wherein
the means includes additional means to discourage, reduce, or
eliminate the possibility of an unauthorized adjusting or
other changing of the controlling means or the use of that
means by an unauthorized person.
(1) Note. A means for preventing unauthorized use of the
controlling means may serve also to prevent unauthorized use
of the vehicle of which it is a part.
Subclass:
174
Having electrical switch:
This subclass is indented under subclass 172. Vehicle wherein
the device includes a switch of the electrical type, which is
caused to function by the centrifugal force.
Subclass:
175
Including fluid pressure actuated servomechanism:
This subclass is indented under subclass 170. Vehicle wherein
the means includes a servomechanism of the fluid pressure
actuated type for operating a velocity-affecting element.
Subclass:
176
And electrical quantities comparison means for development of
input pressure:
This subclass is indented under subclass 175. Vehicle wherein
the means includes additional means for comparing one
electrical quantity (e.g., voltage, pulse, waveform, flux,
etc.) with another (e.g., a reference) quantity of a like
kind, which comparison means is involved in the development
of a pressure which is fed into the controlling means.
Subclass:
177
And one or more electrical components for establishing or
regulating input pressure:
This subclass is indented under subclass 175. Vehicle wherein
the means also includes at least one electrical component for
setting up or maintaining or changing a pressure which is fed
into the means.
(1) Note. The presence anywhere in the means of any
electrical device or element which sets up or maintains or
changes the pressure is sufficient for classification in this
subclass.
Subclass:
178
Including electrically actuated servomechanism:
This subclass is indented under subclass 170. Vehicle wherein
the means includes a servomechanism of the electrically
actuated type for operating a velocity-affecting element.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
361, Electricity: Electrical Systems and Devices as
explained in the reference thereto appearing in subclass 170
above.
Subclass:
179
And electrical quantities comparison means for development of
electrical input:
This subclass is indented under subclass 178. Vehicle wherein
the means includes additional means for comprising one
electrical quantity (e.g., voltage, pulse, waveform, flux,
etc.) with another (e.g., a reference) quantity of a like
kind, which comparison means is involved in the development
of an electrical signal which is fed into the controlling
means.
Subclass:
180
SKI- OR SKATE-TYPE VEHICLE FOR IMPARTING MOVEMENT TO A PERSON
STANDING THEREON:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising either (I) a surface-engaging power
device for pushing or pulling a standing person who is at
least partially supported by, and whose feet are secured to
or in direct contact with, one or more ski- or skate-like
(e.g., ice, roller) members, or (b) one or more ski- or
skate-like members which have power means integral therewith
or at least partially attached thereto, and which are adapted
to be secured to or in direct contact with the feet of a
standing person supported thereon.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
9.22 for a motor vehicle which is adapted to travel upon
endless, flexible track carried by the vehicle, and wherein
the vehicle is provided with means whereby it may be guided
by an attendant who is walking (i.e., is located apart from
the vehicle).
19.1 for a motor vehicle having steering means adapted to be
actuated by an attendant who is walking (i.e., is located
apart from the vehicle).
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
244, Aeronautics, subclass 4 for aircraft of the
heavier-than-air type, which subclass may include a device to
be attached to a person for placing the person in, or
maintaining him in, an airborne condition.
Subclass:
181
With power means or a portion thereof affixed to or built
into the ski or skate:
This subclass is indented under subclass 180. Apparatus in
which the power means is integral with or at least partially
attached to the one or more members.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
280, Land Vehicles, subclass 11.115 for a skate having means
for propelling it, the means being of a kind which is driven
by the person utilizing the skate.
Subclass:
182
INCLUDING ONE OR MORE SKI-LIKE OR RUNNER MEMBERS:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Vehicle
having a ski-like or runner member attached thereto, which
member is in sliding contact with a vehicle supporting
surface during a period when the vehicle is in a normal mode
of operation, and wherein the member serves to guide or to
support, in part, at least, the vehicle.
(1) Note. Vehicle trains consisting of one or more sleds
attached to a motor vehicle are classified in this and the
indented subclasses.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
114, Ships, subclass 43 for an ice boat.
188, Brakes, subclass 8 and 128 for braking means
particularly adapted for use on a vehicle of the sled type.
280, Land Vehicles, subclasses 8+ for a vehicle of that
class which is provided with supporting means of both the
wheeled and the runner type; and subclasses 845+ for a
vehicle of that class which is provided with one or more
supporting means in the nature of a ski-like member.
305, Wheel Substitutes for Land Vehicles, appropriate
subclasses for a vehicle supporting and/or propelling means
of other than a wheeled or runner type.
Subclass:
183
Member substitutable for wheel type support structure:
This subclass is indented under subclass 182. Vehicle in
which at least one member is utilized to change at least part
of the supportive engagement of the vehicle with the surface
from a rolling contact type to a sliding contact type.
(1) Note. If the structure which provided the rolling
contact type of engagement continues to perform--along with
the member--a supporting function, there is not a
substitution within the meaning of this subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
280, Land Vehicles, subclasses 9+ for a vehicle provided
with both supporting wheels and runners in which either the
wheels or runners may be retracted into an inoperative
position leaving the other in a position of support; and
subclass 13 for runners which are designed to be applied to
the wheels of a wheeled vehicle.
Subclass:
184
With propulsion element of endless track type:
This subclass is indented under subclass 183. Vehicle
provided with a driven endless belt or chain type propulsion
element, which describes a path determined by two or more
longitudinally spaced drive and idler wheels (i.e., the end
wheels) around which it passes, and which directly engages
the supporting surface.
Subclass:
185
Track comprises substitute for or addition to propulsion
element of traction wheel type:
This subclass is indented under subclass 184. Vehicle in
which the endless belt or chain-type propulsion element
constitutes a substitute for, or an addition to, a propulsion
element of the kind which comprises a powered wheel having a
periphery which bears directly on the supporting surface.
(1) Note. The powered wheel may remain in place and by
utilized as a driving wheel for the track.
Subclass:
186
With at least one surface-engaging propulsion element:
This subclass is indented under subclass 182. Vehicle
provided with one or more supporting-surface-contacting
propulsion elements.
Subclass:
187
Element shuffles along support surface:
This subclass is indented under subclass 186. Vehicle wherein
at least one surface containing propulsion element propels
the vehicle by alternately (a) freely sliding upon, or
slightly above and generally parallel to, the supporting
surface away from a point on the vehicle and (b) firmly
engaging the supporting surface and pulling the point on the
vehicle towards it.
(1) Note. The element may be a member in the sense of
subclass 182.
Subclass:
188
Spiral type element:
This subclass is indented under subclass 186. Vehicle wherein
at least one propulsion element comprises a reaction surface
in the form of a screw or a helix which is driven about its
axis of rotation, said axis being in general alignment with
the direction of the vehicle's motion.
Subclass:
189
Plural elements connected to and spaced along the plural
throws of a common crankshaft:
This subclass is indented under subclass 186. Vehicle
including plural propulsion elements, each attached to one of
the cranks of a crankshaft at a point on the element remote
from the surface contacting portion.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
280, Land Vehicles, subclass 12.11 for a sled having an
occupant-driven propulsion means which propels the sled by
making intermittent contact with the sled's supporting
surface.
Subclass:
190
Endless track type element:
This subclass is indented under subclass 186. Vehicle wherein
at least one propulsion element comprises an endless belt or
chain in direct engagement with the supporting surface, and
which belt or chain travels in a path having a forward
extremity determined by one track driving or guiding wheel
and a rearward extremity determined by another such wheel
(i.e., the end wheels).
Subclass:
191
Protruding from member:
This subclass is indented under subclass 190. Vehicle in
which a portion of the chain or belt passes through and
projects slightly below an opening in the member or members.
Subclass:
192
Plural tracks with interconnected drive or support means:
This subclass is indented under subclass 190. Vehicle
including plural, individual track type elements having
interjoined drive or support means.
Subclass:
193
With vertically movable track support located intermediate
the forward and rearward extremities of the track:
This subclass is indented under subclass 190. Vehicle
provided with a belt or chain supporting device which is
situated between, and is vertically movable relative to at
least one of, the end wheels.
(1) Note. "Support", as used herein, is not limited to a
force exerted in opposition to gravity; rather, it
encompasses any force applied by a vertically movable device
to the inner surface of the belt or chain in a direction
generally normal thereto.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
9.5 for a motor vehicle having a special driving device in
the nature of a portable track and wherein the track is of
the endless, flexible type and further wherein a support,
which is vertically movable, is provided for the track.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
305, Wheel Substitutes for Land Vehicles, subclass 141 for a
wheel substitute in the nature of an endless track, and
wherein the track is provided with a vertically movable
supporting means intermediate its run.
Subclass:
194
Plural discrete elements protruding from a wheel, hub, or
shaft:
This subclass is indented under subclass 186. Vehicle
including plural, individual, propulsion elements each
attached directly to a single wheel, hub, or shaft for
rotation therewith about its axis.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
280, Land Vehicles, subclass 12.11 for a sled having an
occupant-driven propulsion means which propels the sled by
making intermittent contact with the sled's supporting
surface.
Subclass:
195
Each element moves relative to wheel, hub, or shaft:
This subclass is indented under subclass 194. Vehicle wherein
the elements are attached to the wheel, hub, or shaft in such
a manner as to be moved, at least in part, relative to the
wheel, hub, or shaft during the vehicle's operation.
Subclass:
196
Element comprises traction wheel:
This subclass is indented under subclass 186. Vehicle wherein
the propulsion element comprises a powered wheel having a
periphery which bears directly on the supporting surface.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 194+ for a traction wheel having individual
elements protruding therefrom.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
280, Land Vehicles, subclass 12.13 for a sled having an
occupant-driven propulsion means for the traction wheel
type.
Subclass:
197
WITH MEANS FOR DETECTING WHEEL SLIP DURING VEHICLE
ACCELERATION AND CONTROLLING IT BY REDUCING APPLICATION OF
POWER TO WHEEL:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus wherein the vehicle is provided with means for
determining if a driven wheel is rotating more rapidly than
is proportional to the speed of the vehicle (i.e., the wheel
is spinning relative to the surface with which it is in
engagement) during a period when the speed of the vehicle is
being increased, and for taking action to reduce or eliminate
the unproportionality of the rotational velocity of the wheel
to the speed of the vehicle by decreasing the amount or the
effect of the power being applied to drive the wheel.
(1) Note. The means of this subclass is sometimes used also
for detecting wheel slip during braking (i.e., the wheel is
rotating more slowly than is proportional to the speed of the
vehicle and therefore is sliding relative to the surface it
engages), and may include a capability for reducing or
eliminating the unproportionality by decreasing the braking
effort being applied to the wheel.
(2) Note. In detecting wheel slip of the spinning kind
(i.e., as is associated with acceleration), it is common
practice to use the rotational velocity of a nondriven wheel
as the reference against which the velocity of the driven
wheel is compared.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
477, Interrelated Power Delivery Controls, Including Engine
Control, subclass 35 for interrelated differential and
engine control.
Subclass:
198
PORTABLE CARRIER SUPPORTS MOTOR VEHICLE IN TOTO AND IS
PROPELLED THEREBY:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising a dolly or platform having
ground-engaging supporting members in the nature of wheels or
wheel substitutes and serving as the sole support for a motor
vehicle, the motor of the vehicle being utilized to drive the
loaded dolly or platform.
(1) Note. The motor vehicle does not undergo any
significant change in identity or status.
(2) Note. The motor vehicle most commonly drives the dolly
or platform by (a) driving its own wheels or wheel
substitutes to drive directly (e.g., by a belt or chain and
the appropriate gearing or by frictional engagement) or
indirectly (e.g., by a treadmill) the ground-engaging,
supporting members of the dolly or platform, or (b) driving
the ground-engaging, supporting members directly from a power
take-off located at the vehicle's motor, transmission, etc.
Subclass:
199
WITH POWERED, GROUND-ENGAGING MEANS FOR PRODUCING, OR
ASSISTING IN THE PRODUCTION OF, LATERAL MOVEMENT OF THE
VEHICLE (E.G., FOR PARKING):
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Vehicle
provided with powered means for engaging the ground and
lifting one or more of the vehicle's ground contacting
members to relieve it of all or a part of its load and then
either (1) transporting, while supporting, the one or more
members in a sidewise direction, or (2) exerting, while at
least part of the load is relieved, a sidewise thrust on the
portion of the vehicle with which the one or more members are
associated, or (3) supporting, after lifting, the one or more
members, which members are at one end of the vehicle, for
relatively friction-free sidewise movement (e.g., as on
casters) and then cooperating with the motor of the vehicle
to produce the sidewise movement of the members, and a
resultant swinging of the vehicle, when (a) power is applied
to the vehicle's two, driven, ground-contacting members at
its other end and (b) the appropriate one (depending upon the
direction of swinging desired) of those two members is braked
against rotation and thus utilized as a point of pivot for
the swinging of the vehicle.
(1) Note. While vehicle movement of the kind provided for
herein finds its most common application in the "parallel"
parking of the vehicle, it is not infrequently utilized in
turning the vehicle end for end.
(2) Note. A device or element for preventing sagging of a
wheel and its suspension members, at such time as the portion
of the vehicle to which they are attached is elevated,
appears frequently in the art of this and the indented
subclasses.
(3) Note. Certain motor vehicles, which are merely
reducible in overall dimensions for a storage (e.g., parking)
or transport purpose, will be found in subclass 208 below.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
208 for a motor vehicle of the special wheel base type,
which vehicle is of a collapsible or knockdown nature, and
see (3) Note above.
236 for a motor vehicle having four wheels driven and
wherein is provided means for steering all of the driven
wheels and further wherein that means enables the vehicle to
travel in a path which is other than that produced by turning
the front wheels and the rear wheels substantially equally
and oppositely (e.g., if each wheel is turned 90 deg. about
its axis of pivot, the vehicle will move sideways).
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
254, Implements or Apparatus for Applying Pushing or Pulling
Force, subclasses 418+ for a vehicle-attached jack for
lifting the vehicle. The powering of the jack, not only
during its lifting movement but also for driving a wheeled
jack relative to its supporting surface, by the motor of the
vehicle being lifted is not foreign to the art of that
subclass (418); however, to be proper therefor, the lifting
should be limited to that performed in conjunction with
repairing or servicing the vehicle.
280, Land Vehicles, subclass 761 for a land vehicle provided
with an attachment in the nature of a manually-actuated
device for assisting in the parking of the vehicle in
"parallel" fashion. If the device is a jack which is powered
during lifting by the motor of the vehicle, classification is
in this class (180), but, in the absence of powered lateral
movement of the vehicle, is not in this area (subclasses
199+).
Subclass:
200
Comprising rotatably driven auxiliary wheel or endless
track:
This subclass is indented under subclass 199. Vehicle wherein
the means includes at least one wheel or endless track, which
wheel or endless track (a) supplements or replaces some or
all of the vehicle's usual ground-engaging elements in
supporting the vehicle, (b) is driven about its axis of
rotation, and (c) transports the vehicle in a sidewise
direction.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
7.1 for a motor vehicle which is driven in some other way
than by the mere rotation of road wheels as traction wheels.
203 for a motor vehicle which is provided with powered,
ground-engaging means for producing, or assisting in the
production of, lateral movement of the vehicle and wherein
the means is a wheel substitute which may engage the ground
cyclically.
Subclass:
201
Driven by frictional engagement with tire of vehicle traction
wheel:
This subclass is indented under subclass 200. Vehicle wherein
the power for driving the auxiliary wheel or endless track is
derived from, or transmitted by, a member which is in
frictional engagement with a tire of one of the traction
wheels of the vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 221+ for a motor vehicle having a wheel
arrangement comprising two wheels in tandem relationship and
wherein one of the wheels is driven frictionally.
subclasses 342+ for a motor vehicle, generally, which
includes mechanism for transmitting driving effort to a wheel
and wherein the mechanism includes a rotating element which
drives the wheel by frictionally engaging it.
Subclass:
202
Driven by auxiliary electric or fluid motor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 200. Vehicle wherein
the power for driving the auxiliary wheel or endless track is
provided by an ancillary motor of the electric or the fluid
type.
Subclass:
203
Comprising reciprocally driven stepper or rotatably driven
cam:
This subclass is indented under subclass 199. Vehicle wherein
the ground-engaging means comprises either an extensible leg
or a revolvable surface, either of which exert a force upon
the vehicle which is, at first, primarily an upwardly
directed force, but which, by virtue of the location of the
leg or the surface relative to the center of gravity of the
vehicle, develops an ever-increasing lateral component as the
driving cycle of the leg or surface progresses.
(1) Note. The extensible leg or revolvable surface may
shift the vehicle laterally in a single cycle of operation,
or it may require a plurality of such cycles.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
8.1 for a motor vehicle provided with a special driving
device in the nature of a stepper.
Subclass:
204
WITH DEVICE FOR PROGRAMMABLY OPERATING VEHICLE'S STEERABLE
WHEELS:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Vehicle
wherein the means includes a device which turns the steerable
(e.g., the front) wheels of the vehicle in a direction and to
an extent and at a time whereby, in conjunction with a
particular, concurrent, backward or forward movement of the
vehicle.
(1) Note. "Automatic parking", "automatic self-steering",
and "preset maneuver" are typical of the art terms used to
describe the subject matter of this subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 167+ for a motor vehicle provided with means for
controlling its operation which is responsive to
electromagnetic radiation, magnetic force, or sound waves
received from a source, or reflected from an object or
surface, which is located apart from the vehicle.
subclasses 400+ for a motor vehicle provided with means for
guiding it.
Subclass:
205
With mechanism of occupant-powered type for developing torque
for supplementing, alternating with, or replacing torque of
motor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 21. Vehicle provided
with a mechanism (e.g., pedal drive) for receiving physical
effort on the part of an occupant of the vehicle and turning
it into rotary force for use in propelling the vehicle, which
rotary force may be utilized (a) simultaneously with the
rotary force of the vehicle's motor to increase the total
force available for propelling the vehicle, (b) to substitute
periodically for the rotary force of the motor, or (c) to
substitute indefinitely for the rotary force of the motor
(i.e., the mechanism becomes the sole, or at least the
principal, source of rotary force).
(1) Note. See (1) Note through (4) Note of subclass 21
above.
(2) Note. The torque of the mechanism and that of the motor
may be applied either to the same wheel or to different
wheels.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
65.1 for a motor vehicle, generally, provided with an
electric motor for driving it; and particularly subclass
65.2, for a motor vehicle having other than a special wheel
base and provided with both electric and nonelectric means
for driving it.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
280, Land Vehicles, subclasses 212+ for a land vehicle of
the wheeled type provided with means operable by an occupant
for propelling the vehicle and wherein the means includes
additional means for storing energy.
Subclass:
206
And means for controlling motor in response to either
operation of occupant-powered mechanism or vehicular movement
resulting therefrom:
This subclass is indented under subclass 205. Vehicle
provided also with means whereby the motor is caused to
start, operate in a prescribed manner, stop, or otherwise
perform in response to (a) the functioning of the
occupant-powered mechanism, or a component thereof, for
developing torque or (b) movement of the vehicle produced as
a result of (a).
Subclass:
207
Including member utilized in common by occupant-powered
mechanism and by motor for transmitting torque output of each
to wheel:
This subclass is indented under subclass 205. Vehicle which
includes a member (e.g., a sprocket chain) for transmitting
the torque output of either the occupant-powered mechanism or
the motor to a particular wheel or an element (e.g., a
sprocket) attached thereto, and which member is operative
whenever torque is being developed by either the mechanism or
the motor.
Subclass:
208
Collapsible or knockdown for storage or transport:
This subclass is indented under subclass 21. Vehicle provided
with elements or components which are foldable or
telescopicably respositionable, or readily disconnectable,
for a purpose relating either to placing the vehicle in a
nonuse condition or moving the vehicle to another location.
(1) Note. See (1) Note through (4) Note of subclass 21
above.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
280, Land Vehicles, subclass 278 or 287 for a general
utility occupant propelled-type wheeled land vehicle
including an adjustable, collapsible, extensible, foldable,
or knockdown framework (it is noted that in accordance with
the (2) Note of Class 280, subclass 200, motorcycle frames
and running gear, without features causing classification in
Class 180, Motor Vehicles, are included in these subclasses);
or subclasses 638+ for a general utility wheeled land vehicle
including means for altering a dimension of the vehicle or a
part thereof.
296, Land Vehicles: Bodies and Tops, subclass 27 for a land
vehicle body provided with means whereby it may be
collapsed.
Subclass:
209
With means for changing number of supporting wheels, or for
adjusting relative location thereof:
This subclass is indented under subclass 21. Vehicle provided
either with means whereby the number of wheels which engage
the ground for supporting the vehicle may be decreased or
increased, or with means whereby the position of at least one
wheel relative to at least one other wheel may be changed.
(1) Note. See (1) Note through (4) Note of subclass 21
above.
(2) Note. "Supporting wheels" is interpreted to include not
only the wheels which engage the ground while the vehicle is
traveling in normal fashion, but also any other wheels which
may be moved, relative to the vehicle, into engagement with
the ground (e.g., to maintain a two-wheeled vehicle in its
operating attitude at such time as it becomes unstable as a
result of slowing or stopping).
(3) Note. A vehicle having four wheels, which wheels are so
arranged as to form a nonspecial (i.e., a rectangular) wheel
base, and provided with means inherently capable of so
rearranging or respacing the wheels as to change the wheel
base to a special one, is proper for this subclass,
regardless of whether or not such a change is expressed in
"wheel base" terminology.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 11+ for a motor vehicle provided with an
attachment in the nature of a motor-carrying frame, which
attachment is supported in part by the vehicle.
15 for a motor vehicle provided with at least one traction
wheel which does not constitute one of the main supporting
wheels of the vehicle.
16 for a motor vehicle provided with an attachment in the
nature of a traction-wheel-carrying frame, the traction
wheels of which replace the vehicle's original traction
wheels as vehicle supporting members.
24.02 for a motor vehicle having a wheel arrangement
comprising five or more wheels and wherein one of the wheels
is adjustably, or otherwise, mounted to move vertically for
the purpose of modifying the proportion of the load imposed
upon at least one other wheel of the vehicle.
subclasses 200+ for a motor vehicle provided with powered,
ground-engaging means for producing, or assisting in the
production of, lateral movement of the vehicle (e.g., for
parking) and wherein the means comprises a rotatably driven
auxiliary wheel or endless track.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
280, Land Vehicles, subclass 86.5 for a general utility
wheeled land vehicle including an auxiliary axle assembly
movable between a use and a nonuse position; subclass 149.2
for a general utility wheeled land vehicle including
longitudinally shiftable running gear; or subclasses 638+ for
a general utility wheeled land vehicle including means for
altering a dimension of the vehicle or a part thereof.
Subclass:
210
Having only three wheels:
This subclass is indented under subclass 21. Vehicle wherein
the arrangement consists of three wheels for supporting the
vehicle.
(1) Note. See (1) Note through (4) Note of subclass 21
above.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
280, Land Vehicles, subclass 282 for a land vehicle of the
wheeled type provided with means adapting it to be propelled
by an occupant and further provided with a frame which is
designed for more than two wheels; and subclass 62 for a land
vehicle of the kind which normally travels on three wheels.
Subclass:
211
Including steerable and driven wheel:
This subclass is indented under subclass 210. Vehicle wherein
at least one wheel is not only drivingly rotated for
propelling the vehicle, but is also attached to the vehicle
in such a manner that it may be moved pivotably (e.g.,
rotatably) about a more or less vertical axis for changing
the course of travel of the vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
6.2 for a motor vehicle which is steered by creating a
difference between the driving effort developed by one or
more traction elements located on one side of the vehicle and
the driving effort developed by one or more traction elements
located on the other side thereof.
subclasses 12+ for a motor vehicle having a motor-carrying
attachment in the nature of a wheeled frame and wherein the
wheels of the frame are driven and steered.
subclasses 23+ for a motor vehicle having a wheel
arrangement comprising five or more wheels and wherein one or
more of the wheels are driven and steered.
subclasses 37+ for a motor vehicle of the steam traction
engine type having steering wheels which are driven.
222 for a motor vehicle having a wheel arrangement
comprising two wheels in tandem relationship and wherein one
of the wheels is driven frictionally and further wherein
means is provided for steering that wheel.
subclasses 223+ for a motor vehicle having a wheel
arrangement comprising two wheels in tandem relationship and
wherein at least one of the wheels is driven and steered.
subclasses 400+ for a motor vehicle having means for
guiding it.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
280, Land Vehicles, subclass 5.5 for a general utility land
vehicle including an active suspension responsive to a force
encountered while the vehicle is in surface traversing motion
which may or may not involve a driven and steered wheel;
subclasses 124.1+ for a general utility wheeled land vehicle
suspension arrangement which may or may not involve a driven
and steered wheel; subclasses 263+ for a general utility
occupant propelled-type wheeled land vehicle including
occupant controlled steering means (it is noted that in
accordance with the (2) Note of Class 280, subclass 200,
motorcycle frames and running gear, without features causing
classification in Class 180, Motor Vehicles, are included in
these subclasses); or subclasses 771+ for a general utility
wheeled land vehicle including occupant controlled steering
means which may or may not involve a driven and steered
wheel.
Subclass:
212
All wheels motor driven:
This subclass is indented under subclass 211. Vehicle wherein
each of the supporting wheels is drivingly rotated by the
vehicle's motor.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
24.08 for a motor vehicle having a wheel arrangement
comprising five or more wheels and wherein each wheel is
driven.
38 for a motor vehicle of the steam traction engine type
wherein not only the steering wheels, but also the remaining
two wheels, are driven.
224 for a motor vehicle having a wheel arrangement
comprising two wheels in tandem relationship and wherein at
least one of the wheels is steerable and further wherein both
wheels are driven.
subclasses 233+ for a motor vehicle provided with four
driven wheels.
Subclass:
213
Having motor mounted to swing with steerable wheel:
This subclass is indented under subclass 211. Vehicle wherein
the vehicle's motor, which motor drivingly rotates at least
the steerable wheel, is attached to or otherwise supported by
the steerable wheel in such a manner as to partake of the
pivotable movement thereof.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 264+ for a motor vehicle provided with a driven
axle which carries two or more wheels and is swingable about
an axis of steering pivot and wherein the motor for driving
the axle and its wheels is mounted to swing with the axle.
Subclass:
214
Electrical type motor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 213. Vehicle wherein
the motor is of a kind which converts electrical energy into
mechanical motion.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
65.1 for a motor vehicle, generally, provided with an
electric motor for driving it.
216 for another motor vehicle of the three-wheeled type
which utilizes an electric motor, but wherein only two of the
wheels, which two wheels have a common axis, are driven.
220 for a motor vehicle having a wheel arrangement
comprising two wheels in tandem relationship and wherein the
vehicle's motor is of the electrical type.
Subclass:
215
Including two wheels driven and having common axis of
rotation:
This subclass is indented under subclass 210. Vehicle wherein
two of the three wheels are drivingly rotated about the same
axis.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 337+ for a motor vehicle, generally, which
includes mechanism for transmitting driving effort to at
least one of two wheels mounted on an axle.
Subclass:
216
Electrical type motor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 215. Vehicle wherein
the vehicle's motor is of a kind which converts electrical
energy into mechanical motion.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
65.1 as explained in the reference thereto appearing in
subclass 214 above.
214 for another motor vehicle of the three-wheeled type
which utilizes an electric motor, but wherein at least one
wheel is both steerable and driven, and further wherein the
motor is mounted to swing with that wheel.
220 for a motor vehicle having a wheel arrangement
comprising two wheels in tandem relationship and wherein the
vehicle's motor is of the electrical type.
Subclass:
217
Including endless element for transmitting drive to wheels:
This subclass is indented under subclass 215. Vehicle which
includes, as a component of a mechanism for transferring the
driving effort of the vehicle's motor to the wheels, an
element in the nature of a belt or chain.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
231 for a motor vehicle having a wheel arrangement
comprising two wheels in tandem relationship and wherein the
mechanism for transferring driving effort to a wheel includes
an endless element.
239 241 and 251, for various species of a motor vehicle which
has four wheels driven, each of which species includes at
least one endless element for transmitting driving effort to
one or more of the wheels.
Subclass:
218
Having only two wheels:
This subclass is indented under subclass 21. Vehicle wherein
the arrangement consists of two wheels for supporting the
vehicle.
(1) Note. See (1) Note through (4) Note of subclass 21
above.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
280, Land Vehicles, subclass 47.131 for a tiltable general
utility land vehicle which is stabilized by an article or an
attendant; subclasses 63+ for a general utility wheeled land
vehicle normally travelling on two wheels; subclasses 205+
for a general utility occupant propelled-type wheeled land
vehicle having plural wheels mounted upon a common axis; or
subclasses 281.1+ (with the exception of subclass 282) for a
general utility occupant propelled-type wheeled land vehicle
provided with a frame or running gear (it is noted that in
accordance with the (2) Note of Class 280 subclass 200,
motorcycle frames and running gear, without features causing
classification in Class 180, Motor Vehicles, are included in
these subclasses).
Subclass:
219
Arranged in tandem:
This subclass is indented under subclass 218. Vehicle wherein
the two wheels occupy, during straight-ahead travel of the
vehicle, a plane which is inclusive of, or parallel to, the
longitudinal axis of the vehicle.
Subclass:
220
Electrical type motor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 219. Vehicle wherein
the vehicle's motor is of a kind which converts electrical
energy into mechanical motion.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
65.1 for a motor vehicle, generally, provided with an
electric motor for driving it.
214 for a motor vehicle having a wheel arrangement
comprising three wheels and wherein at least one wheel is
both steerable and driven and further wherein the vehicle's
motor is mounted to swing with that wheel, and wherein, in
addition, the motor is electrical in nature.
216 for a motor vehicle having a wheel arrangement
comprising three wheels and wherein two wheels, which wheels
have a common axis, are driven and further wherein the
vehicle's motor is electrical in nature.
Subclass:
221
Including rotating element for frictionally engaging and
driving a wheel:
This subclass is indented under subclass 219. Vehicle which
includes, as a component of a means for transmitting the
driving effort of the vehicle's motor to one of its wheels, a
rotating element (e.g., a roller) which causes the wheel to
rotate when pressed into engagement with it or with a
component (e.g., rim, tire) thereof.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 342+ for a motor vehicle, generally, which
includes mechanism for transmitting driving effort to a wheel
and wherein the mechanism includes a rotating element which
drives the wheel by frictionally engaging it.
Subclass:
222
And means for steering that wheel:
This subclass is indented under subclass 221. Vehicle which
is additionally provided with means for steering the
frictionally driven wheel.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
13 for a motor vehicle having a motor-carrying attachment in
the nature of a wheeled frame and wherein the frame is
supported by a single wheel (i.e., a wheel of the stub-axle
type).
24 for a motor vehicle having a wheel arrangement comprising
five or more wheels and wherein one or more of the wheels are
driven and steered and further wherein any driven and steered
wheel is a wheel of the stub-axle type.
subclasses 37+ for a motor vehicle of the steam traction
engine type having steering wheels which are driven.
subclasses 211+ for a motor vehicle having a wheel
arrangement comprising three wheels and wherein at least one
of the wheels is driven and steered.
subclasses 223+ for another motor vehicle of the
two-tandem-wheeled type wherein at least one of the wheels is
driven and steered.
subclasses 400+ for a motor vehicle having means for
guiding it.
Subclass:
223
Including steerable and driven wheel:
This subclass is indented under subclass 219. Vehicle
provided with at least one wheel which is not only drivingly
rotated for propelling the vehicle, but is also attached to
the vehicle in such a manner that it may be moved pivotably
(e.g., rotatably) about a more or less vertical axis for
changing the course of travel of the vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
13 24, 37+, 211+, and 400+, as explained in the references
thereto appearing in subclass 222 above, and see that
subclass (222) for another motor vehicle of the
two-tandem-wheeled type wherein one of the wheels is driven
frictionally and further wherein means is provided for
steering that wheel.
Subclass:
224
Both wheels motor driven:
This subclass is indented under subclass 223. Vehicle wherein
each of the two supporting wheels is drivingly rotated by the
vehicle's motor.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
24.08 for a motor vehicle having a wheel arrangement
comprising five or more wheels and wherein each wheel is
driven.
38 for a motor vehicle of the steam traction engine type
having not only the steering wheels, but also the remaining
two wheels, driven.
212 for a motor vehicle having a wheel arrangement
comprising three wheels and wherein at least one of the
wheels is steered and further wherein each wheel is driven.
subclasses 233+ for a motor vehicle provided with four
driven wheels.
Subclass:
225
Having frame element or fender constituting also exhaust or
fuel passageway or fuel reservoir:
This subclass is indented under subclass 219. Vehicle wherein
a component of the vehicle's frame, or a fender (i.e.,
mudguard) of the vehicle, is adapted to serve also as (a) a
conduit for products of combustion being discharged from the
vehicle's motor or for fuel being fed to the motor, or (b) a
container for storing a supply of fuel for the motor.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
280, Land Vehicles, subclass 782 for a general utility
wheeled land vehicle running gear including a specific frame
construction providing a fluid or electrical conduit; or
subclasses 830+ for a general utility land vehicle including
a boiler or tank, especially subclasses 834+ wherein the tank
provides a container or receptacle for fluid for use by a
prime mover to produce propulsion.
293, Vehicle Fenders, subclass 106 for a vehicle bumper
having a storage compartment.
Subclass:
226
Including longitudinally extending shaft for transmitting
drive to wheel:
This subclass is indented under subclass 219. Vehicle which
includes, as a component of a means for transferring the
driving effort of the vehicle's motor to one or more of its
wheels, an elongated element which extends length-wise of the
vehicle from the vicinity of the motor to a locus for
engagement with a driven wheel or a member (e.g., a gear)
affixed thereto, which element is rotatable about its
principal axis.
Subclass:
227
Including resilient means for mounting driven wheel:
This subclass is indented under subclass 219. Vehicle which
includes means in the nature of a cushion, shock absorber,
spring, etc., for mounting a driven one of the wheels.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
267, Spring Devices, subclasses 2+ for spring devices which
are adapted to cushion relative movement between parts of a
vehicle and are not provided for elsewhere.
280, Land Vehicles, subclass 79 for a general utility
wheeled land vehicle provided with springs between the wheel
or wheels and the load support, noting the search notes
provided therein; subclasses 124.125+ for general utility
wheeled land vehicle running gear including separate support
of a wheel upon an individual stub axle which wheel may or
may not be driven; or subclasses 275+ or 283+ for general
utility occupant propelled-type wheeled land vehicles
including yielding framework or running gear (it is noted
that in accordance with the (2) Note of Class 280, subclass
200, motorcycle frames and running gear, without features
causing classification in Class 180, Motor Vehicles, are
included in these subclasses).
Subclass:
228
Including resilient means for mounting motor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 219. Vehicle which
includes means in the nature of a cushion, shock absorber,
spring, etc., for mounting (e.g., supporting) the vehicle's
propulsion motor.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
295 for a motor vehicle wherein the motor and the body frame
are particularly related to one another and wherein a
change-speed gearing or a clutch is mounted in common with
the motor and further wherein a wheeled, auxiliary frame,
which is resiliently joined to the body frame, is provided
for supporting the motor and the gearing or clutch.
299 for a motor vehicle wherein the motor and the body frame
are particularly related to one another and wherein is
included both an auxiliary frame for supporting the motor and
resilient means for connecting the auxiliary frame to the
body frame.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
248, Supports, subclasses 560+ for supports which are
resilient in nature.
267, Spring Devices, subclasses 2+, as explained in the
reference thereto appearing in subclass 227 above.
Subclass:
229
With means for cooling motor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 219. Vehicle
provided with means for preventing an excessive increase in
the operating temperature of the vehicle's motor (e.g., a
system for circulating a liquid coolant, a blower or a
ducting arrangement for forcing or directing air to the
motor, cooling fins on a cylinder head, etc.).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
68.1 for art included therein relating to the cooling or
ventilation of a vehicle's motor.
68.4 for a motor vehicle having a radiator or condenser and
wherein means is provided for mounting the radiator or
condenser.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
165, Heat Exchange, subclasses 41+ for heat transfer
wherein a vehicle feature is involved.
Subclass:
230
With change-speed means between motor and driven wheel:
This subclass is indented under subclass 219. Vehicle
provided with means for receiving power from the motor at
whatever speed the motor is operating and converting it to a
different speed for driving a wheel (e.g., plural gear sets,
a fluid torque converter, a belt and pulley arrangement,
etc.).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 364+ for variable speed transmissions in
combination with vehicles generally.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, subclasses 640+ for
nonplanetary transmissions.
474, Endless Belt Power Transmission Systems or Components,
appropriate subclasses for means for controlling speed ratio
in a belt and pulley drive system.
475, Planetary Gear Transmission Systems or Components, for
planetary gear transmission.
Subclass:
231
Including endless element for transmitting drive and means
for adjusting tension of element:
This subclass is indented under subclass 219. Vehicle which
includes, as a component of a mechanism for transferring the
driving effort of the vehicle's motor to one or more wheels
thereof, an element in the nature of a belt or chain, and
wherein the vehicle further includes means for increasing or
decreasing the amount of tensile stress in the element.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
217 for a motor vehicle having a wheel arrangement
comprising three wheels and wherein two of the wheels, which
have a common axis of rotation, are driven and further
wherein the mechanism for transferring driving effort to the
wheels includes an endless element.
239 241 and 251, for various species of a motor vehicle which
has four wheels driven, each of which species includes at
least one endless element for transmitting driving effort to
one or more of the wheels.
351 357, 366, and 373, for belt or chain drives in other
vehicle combinations that may include tensioning means.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
474, Endless Belt Power Transmission Systems or Components,
particularly subclasses 101+ for a belt and pulley
transmission with means for adjusting belt tension.
Subclass:
232
WITH MEANS FOR (1) PROTECTING MOTOR FROM IMPACT OF COLLISION,
(2) UTILIZING MASS OF MOTOR TO ABSORB FORCE THEREOF, OR (3)
PROTECTING OCCUPANT REGION OF VEHICLE FROM IMPACT-INDUCED
SHIFTING OF MOTOR:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Vehicle
provided with means for either (1) cushioning or isolating
the motor of a vehicle from the force created when the
vehicle engages an object, (2) taking advantage of the
inertia inherent in a moving motor to dissipate part of that
force (e.g., by allowing a certain amount of "controlled"
movement of the motor), or (3) redirecting the shifting of
the motor caused by such a force into a path whereby it is
less likely to cause critical damage to that portion of the
vehicle in which the operator and any passengers are located
(e.g., by providing guide means for the motor, which guide
means are sometimes so designed as to also cause some of the
force of the impact to be dissipated by the movement of the
motor therealong).
(1) Note. This subclass consists principally of art found
in former subclasses 64 and 82, and, accordingly, is not
necessarily a complete collection of all such art which may
exist in the class.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
188, Brakes, subclasses 371+ and 378+ for miscellaneous
means for retarding motion, which means may comprise or
include a metallic element which is deformable or frangible.
280, Land Vehicles, subclass 784 for a general utility
wheeled land vehicle running gear including specific frame
construction wherein the frame construction has means for
absorbing an impact.
296, Land Vehicles: Bodies and Tops, subclass 35.2 for a
land vehicle body secured to running gear or a chassis frame
by means including collision impact absorbing structure, and
subclass 189 for a land vehicle body which is deformable for
absorbing the shock of an impact.
Subclass:
233
HAVING FOUR WHEELS DRIVEN:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Vehicle
provided with four wheels and means for driving each of the
wheels.
(1) Note. This and indented subclasses consist, for the
most part, of art from former subclasses 42+ which provided
for a steerable wheel of the driven type; see also (1) Note
of subclass 252 below.
(2) Note. While a majority of the art herein claims the
typical four-wheel-drive type of vehicle (i.e., one having a
driven wheel at each of its four corners), patents disclosing
only that type of vehicle, but not necessarily claiming
clearly that exact number of wheels as being driven, are
included here (subclasses 233+).
(3) Note. The substitution of a dual wheel (i.e., two
wheels having their central (e.g., spider) portions joined
back to back, or being otherwise connected to move as one
member, there being, in any case, insufficient space between
the two to accommodate any such mechanism as a drive chain or
a steering gear shaft) for a single wheel at one or more of
the wheel-carrying locations of a vehicle does not, for the
purposes of this and the indented subclasses, change the
number of wheels on the vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
6.2 for a motor vehicle which, for a steering purpose, is
provided with at least one driven traction element on each of
two opposite sides and means for driving the elements at
different speeds.
14.1 for a motor vehicle which comprises two or more
connected vehicles, at least one of which retains its
identity as a complete vehicle when the other or others are
detached therefrom, which subclass may include, for example,
two coupled vehicles having two driving wheels each.
21 for a motor vehicle having a special wheel-base; note
that in the case of a patent claiming a vehicle having four
driven wheels so located thereon that they form other than a
rectangle, original classification would be in that subclass
(21).
24.08 for a motor vehicle having a wheel arrangement
comprising five or more wheels and wherein each wheel is
driven.
24.09 for a motor vehicle having a wheel arrangement
comprising five or more wheels and wherein the drive means
includes power dividing means in the form of differential
gearing for driving each differential of a tandem pair of
differentially driven axles.
24.1 for a motor vehicle having a wheel arrangement
comprising five or more wheels and wherein are included two,
longitudinally spaced wheels which are driven and further
wherein is included means for disconnecting the drive to one
of the two wheels.
24.11 for a motor vehicle having a wheel arrangement
comprising five or more wheels and wherein are included at
least two, longitudinally spaced wheels which are driven.
38 for a motor vehicle of the steam traction engine type
wherein not only the steering wheels, but also the remaining
two wheels, are driven.
212 for a motor vehicle having a wheel arrangement
comprising three wheels and wherein at least one of the
wheels is steered and further wherein each wheel is driven.
224 for a motor vehicle having a wheel arrangement
comprising two wheels in tandem relationship and wherein at
least one of the wheels is steerable and further wherein both
wheels are driven.
Subclass:
234
With means for steering all driven wheels:
This subclass is indented under subclass 233. Vehicle
provided with means for repositioning every one of the driven
wheels in such a manner as to alter the direction of travel
of the vehicle.
(1) Note. The means includes any such device or mechanism
as may be necessary for coordinating the repositioning of the
several wheels.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
280, Land Vehicles, subclass 91.1 for a land vehicle of the
wheeled type having running gear for which steering means
operable by an occupant is provided and wherein the means
controls four supporting wheels; and subclasses 99+ for a
land vehicle of the wheeled type having running gear which is
specially constructed to enable the vehicle to make a short
turn and wherein four supporting wheels are controlled for
turning the vehicle.
Subclass:
235
Comprising articulated frame and means for pivoting one
portion of frame relative to other portion about vertical
axis located centrally of vehicle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 234. Vehicle wherein
the means for repositioning the wheels comprises a vehicle
frame which is divided into fore and aft, wheel-supported
portions, the portions being hingedly connected to one
another along a substantially vertical axis which is located
at the approximate center of the vehicle, and provided with
means for moving one portion of the frame relative to the
other portion about the axis.
(1) Note. The connection of one portion of the other
frequently provides also for the pivotable movement of one
portion relative to the other about one or more horizontal
axes (e.g., to facilitate movement of the vehicle over an
uneven surface).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
6.2 as explained in the reference thereto appearing in
subclass 233 above, and see particularly indented subclass
6.64, for a vehicle of that area which includes a frame
member, having at least two traction elements thereon,
swingable about a vertical axis in response to the
differential driving of the elements.
14.1 as explained in the reference thereto appearing in
subclass 233 above, and with further observation that
subclasses 14.1+ has not been screened for subject matter
which may now be better provided for by this subclass (235).
265 for a motor vehicle of the steerable, driven wheel type
having two or more steerable wheels mounted upon an axle
which is swingable about a substantially vertical axis and
having the motor of the vehicle mounted to swing with the
axle, and wherein the axis is offset longitudinally from the
axis about which it swings.
subclasses 418+ for a motor vehicle of the kind comprising
articulated sections and having steering gear of the fluid
power assist type, and wherein steering is accomplished by
moving the sections relative to one another about a more or
less vertical axis at their point of articulation.
Subclass:
236
In a path of travel other than that produced by turning the
front wheels and the rear wheels substantially equally and
oppositely:
This subclass is indented under subclass 234. Vehicle wherein
the means for repositioning the wheels is controllable in
such a manner as to cause the vehicle to assume a course
which is different from that obtainable by the usual practice
of turning the front wheels in one direction and the rear
wheels in the opposite direction and to more or less the same
extent.
(1) Note. Exemplary of the controllability of the
repositioning means are: (a) restricting it to operating on
fewer than all of the wheels; (b) causing it to turn the
front wheels to either a greater or a lesser degree than the
rear wheels, or vice versa; and (c) causing it to turn all of
the wheels in the same direction (i.e., to make the vehicle
move laterally or with a lateral component).
Subclass:
237
Comprising swingable, plural-wheel-carrying axles on
individual, vertical axes of pivot:
This subclass is indented under subclass 234. Vehicle wherein
the means for repositioning the wheels comprises two axles,
each axle having a wheel at or adjacent each of its ends and
being mounted for pivotable movement about a vertical axis,
which axes do not coincide with one another.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 264+ 266 and 267, for motor vehicles of the
steerable, driven wheel type which have two or more steerable
wheels mounted upon a driven axle which is swingable about a
substantially vertical axis.
Subclass:
238
At least one axle being offset from its pivotable axis:
This subclass is indented under subclass 237. Vehicle wherein
at least one of the axles is located in a vertical plane
which is spaced horizontally (e.g., longitudinally of the
vehicle) from a parallel vertical plane which contains the
axis about which the axle may swing.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
265 as explained in the reference thereto appearing in
subclass 235 above.
Subclass:
239
Including longitudinally extending, endless element for
transmitting drive to wheels:
This subclass is indented under subclass 237. Vehicle wherein
a means for transferring the driving effort, developed by the
motor, to the wheels of the vehicle includes a member which
operates in a plane extending generally fore-and-aft of the
vehicle and is in the nature of a belt or chain.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
217 for a motor vehicle having a wheel arrangement
comprising three wheels and wherein two of the wheels, which
have a common axis of rotation, are driven and further
wherein the mechanism for transferring driving effort to the
wheels includes an endless element.
231 for a motor vehicle having a wheel arrangement
comprising two wheels in tandem relationship and wherein the
mechanism for transferring driving effort to a wheel includes
an endless element.
241 and 251, for other motor vehicles of the
four-driven-wheel type which include a longitudinally
extending, endless, drive-transmitting element.
subclasses 350+ 357, 366, and 373, for a motor vehicle
having transmission mechanism in the nature of one or more
belts or chains for transmitting drive to its wheels.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
474, Endless Belt Power Transmission Systems or Components,
appropriate subclasses for a power transmission using an
endless belt.
Subclass:
240
Including rotatable shaft extending longitudinally from
wheels at one end of vehicle to wheels at other end for
transmitting steering force thereto:
This subclass is indented under subclass 234. Vehicle wherein
the means for repositioning the wheels includes a
torque-transmitting member in the nature of a rod or shaft,
extending from the wheels adjacent one end of the vehicle to
those adjacent the other end thereof in a direction generally
parallel to the longitudinal centerline of the vehicle, for
transferring to the wheels a force for redirecting them.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
429 for a motor vehicle having steering gear of the fluid
power assist type and wherein the mechanism of the power
assist includes a working member which moves about an axis.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
280, Land Vehicles, subclass 47.11 for a general utility
wheeled land vehicle including attendant controlled steering
of other than a mere swinging axle; subclasses 99+ for a
general utility wheeled land vehicle running gear specially
constructed to enable execution of arcuate travel within a
reduced radius of curvature (i.e., short turn); or subclasses
771+ for a general utility wheeled land vehicle including
occupant controlled steering means, especially subclass 91.1
for a nonmotor land vehicle wherein each of four wheels is
steered by the occupant.
Subclass:
241
Including longitudinally extending, endless element for
transmitting drive to wheels:
This subclass is indented under subclass 234. Vehicle wherein
the means for driving the wheels includes a force
transferring element in the nature of a belt or chain which
travels in a plane extending generally fore-and-aft of the
vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
239 and 251, for other motor vehicles of the
four-driven-wheel type which include a longitudinally
extending, endless, drive-transmitting element.
subclasses 350+ 357, 366, and 373, each as explained in the
reference thereto appearing in subclass 239 above.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
474, Endless Belt Power Transmission Systems or Components,
appropriate subclasses for a power transmission using an
endless belt.
Subclass:
242
Including pump and fluid motor, or generator and electric
motor, for driving one or more wheels:
This subclass is indented under subclass 233. Vehicle which
includes, for driving one or more of its wheels, either a
fluid motor and a pump for operating it or an electric motor
and a generator for operating it.
(1) Note. "Generator" is not intended to exclude an
equivalent source of electricity, such as a battery.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
65.1 for a motor vehicle, generally, provided with an
electric motor for driving it.
subclasses 305+ for a motor vehicle having a traction motor
of the kind driven by a noncompressible fluid received under
pressure from a pump, which motor, in the case of indented
subclass 308 drives a specific wheel.
Subclass:
243
And another means for driving the remaining driven wheels:
This subclass is indented under subclass 242. Vehicle which
also includes some other means (e.g., a drive shaft from a
power plant, which power plant may be the vehicle's prime
motor) for driving those of the four wheels which are not
driven by either the fluid motor or the electric motor.
Subclass:
244
With means for braking either (1) one or more driven wheels
or (2) structure transmitting drive to wheel:
This subclass is indented under subclass 233. Vehicle
provided with means for either (a) applying a force to one or
more of the driven wheels to slow or stop its rotation or (b)
applying a slowing or stopping force to an element, member,
or device which is involved in transferring the driving
effort of the motor to one or more of the driven wheels.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
6.2 for means for changing the rate of travel of a traction
element located on one side of a vehicle relative to the rate
of travel of a traction element located on the other side of
the vehicle, where the purpose of the change is to alter the
course of the vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
188, Brakes, appropriate subclasses for means for retarding
the motion of machines (including vehicles), shafts, wheels,
pulleys, and other moving mechanisms; see especially
subclasses 2+ for brakes for vehicles; and the subclasses
beginning with subclass 67 for brakes for wheels.
Subclass:
245
Including separate mechanical assemblies for transmitting
drive to each of two wheels at one end of vehicle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 233. Vehicle which
includes one group of mechanical elements for transferring
the driving effort developed by the motor to one of the two
driven wheels located at a particular end of the vehicle and
another group of mechanical elements for transferring the
driving effort to the other driven wheel at that end.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
24.05 for a motor vehicle having a wheelbase comprising five
or more wheels wherein the wheels are attached to the vehicle
by way of a rocker beam and further wherein mechanism for
transmitting drive to the wheels is provided, which mechanism
may be similar to the mechanical assemblies of this subclass
(245).
Subclass:
246
And assemblies for each of two wheels at other end, also:
This subclass is indented under subclass 245. Vehicle wherein
separate sets of mechanical, drive-transferring elements are
provided also for each of the two driven wheels at the
opposite end of the vehicle.
Subclass:
247
With manually operated means for disengaging drive to one or
more, but fewer than all, of the four wheels:
This subclass is indented under subclass 233. Vehicle
provided with means for interrupting the transmission of
driving effort to at least one of the driven wheels while
simultaneously maintaining it to at least one wheel, the
means being of the kind which requires the intervention of an
individual (e.g., the vehicle operator) for its actuation.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
24.1 for a motor vehicle having a wheelbase comprising five
or more wheels and wherein is provided means for driving two
wheels spaced from each other longitudinally in the direction
of travel of the vehicle and wherein is further provided
means for disconnecting the drive to one of the wheels but
leaving unaffected the drive to the other wheel.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
403, Joints and Corrections, subclass 1 for a selectively
engageable hub to shaft connection.
Subclass:
248
With differential means for driving two wheel sets at
dissimilar speeds:
This subclass is indented under subclass 233. Vehicle
provided with means which modifies the driving effort of the
motor to the extent of causing it to drive one set of wheels
(e.g., the front) at one speed and the other set (e.g., the
rear) at another speed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
24.09 for a motor vehicle having a wheelbase comprising five
or more wheels and wherein the drive means for the vehicle
includes a power dividing means in the form of gearing for
differentially driving each differential of a tandem pair of
wheel drive axles.
76 for a device for allowing a driven wheel on one side of a
vehicle to rotate at a different speed than the corresponding
wheel on the other side of the vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, subclasses 640+ for
gearing, including gearing of the differential kind.
475, Planetary Gear Transmission Systems or Components,
subclasses 220+ for planetary gear differentials.
477, Interrelated Power Delivery Controls, Including Engine
Control, for interrelated control between a differential and
a motor.
Subclass:
249
And means for locking out the differential means:
This subclass is indented under subclass 248. Vehicle
provided with additional means for preventing the
differential means from causing the wheel sets to be driven
at speeds which are not the same.
Subclass:
250
Manually operated type of lockout means:
This subclass is indented under subclass 249. Vehicle wherein
the means for preventing the differential means from
functioning is of the kind which requires the intervention of
an individual (e.g., the vehicle operator) for its
actuation.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, subclasses 469+ for
control lever and linkage systems.
Subclass:
251
Including longitudinally extending, endless element for
transmitting drive to wheels:
This subclass is indented under subclass 233. Vehicle which
includes, for transferring to the wheels the driving effort
developed by the motor, a member which operates in a plane
extending generally fore-and-aft of the vehicle and is in the
nature of a belt or chain.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
239 and 241, for other motor vehicles of the
four-driven-wheel type which include a longitudinally
extending, endless, drive-transmitting element.
subclasses 350+ 357, 366, and 373, each as explained in the
reference thereto appearing in subclass 239 above.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
474, Endless Belt Power Transmission Systems or Components,
appropriate subclasses for a power transmission using an
endless belt.
Subclass:
252
HAVING AT LEAST ONE WHEEL BOTH DRIVEN AND STEERABLE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Vehicle
wherein one or more of its wheels is not only drivingly
rotated for propelling the vehicle, but is also attached to
the vehicle in such a manner that it may be moved pivotably
(e.g., rotatably) about a more or less vertical axis for
changing the course of travel of the vehicle.
(1) Note. This and the indented subclasses consist
primarily of that art which remained in former subclasses 42+
subsequent to the removal therefrom of the art devoted to
vehicles having four wheels driven; see also (1) Note of
subclass 233 above.
(2) Note. Contrary to the statement in the Glossary of the
class definition that the term "steering wheel" defines a
road wheel which is swingable to change the course of the
vehicle, the project which reclassified former subclasses 42+
adopted, instead, the designation of "steerable wheel" for
such a road wheel.
(3) Note. The substitution of a dual wheel (i.e., two
wheels having their central (e.g., spider) portions joined
back to back, or being otherwise connected to move as one
member, there being, in any case, insufficient space between
the two to accommodate any such mechanism as a drive chain or
a steering gear shaft) for a single wheel at one or more of
the wheel-carrying locations of a vehicle does not, for the
purposes of this and the indented subclasses, change the
number of wheels on the vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
6.2 for a motor vehicle which is steerable by creating a
difference between the driving effort developed by one or
more traction elements located on one side of the vehicle and
the driving effort developed by one or more traction elements
located on the other side thereof.
subclasses 12+ for a motor vehicle having a motor-carrying
attachment in the nature of a wheeled frame and wherein the
wheels of the frame are driven and steered.
subclasses 23+ for a motor vehicle having a wheel
arrangement comprising five or more wheels and wherein one or
more of the wheels are driven and steered.
subclasses 37+ for a motor vehicle of the steam traction
engine type having steering wheels which are driven.
subclasses 211+ for a motor vehicle having a wheel
arrangement comprising three wheels and wherein at least one
of the wheels is driven and steered.
222 for a motor vehicle having a wheel arrangement
comprising two wheels in tandem relationship and wherein one
of the wheels is driven frictionally and further wherein
means is provided for steering that wheel.
subclasses 223+ for a motor vehicle having a wheel
arrangement comprising two wheels in tandem relationship and
wherein at least one of the wheels is driven and steered.
subclasses 400+ for a motor vehicle having means for
guiding it.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
280, Land Vehicles, subclass 5.5 for a general utility land
vehicle including an active suspension responsive to a force
encountered while the vehicle is in surface traversing motion
which may or may not involve a driven and steered wheel;
subclasses 124.1+ for a general utility wheeled land vehicle
suspension arrangement which may or may not involve a driven
and steerable wheel; or subclasses 771+ for a general utility
wheeled land vehicle including occupant controlled steering.
Subclass:
253
Steerable wheel has exclusive axis of pivot (i.e., stub-axle
type):
This subclass is indented under subclass 252. Vehicle wherein
any steerable wheel thereof has an axis of pivot which is
separate and distinct from that of any other such wheel.
(1) Note. "Stub-axle" is the art term ordinarily associated
with a pivotable wheel mounting of the kind described.
(2) Note. See (1) Note of subclass 252 above.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
13 as explained in the reference to subclasses 12+ appearing
in subclass 252 above, and with the further limitation that
the frame is supported by a single wheel (i.e., a wheel of
the stub-axle type).
24 as explained in the reference to subclasses 23+ appearing
in subclass 252 above, and with the further limitation that
any driven and steered wheel is a wheel of the stub-axle
type.
subclasses 37+ 211+, 222, and 223+, as explained in subclass
252 above, and with the further observation that a driven and
steered wheel of the kind found in these subclasses may be,
especially in subclasses 211+, 222, and 223+, of the
stub-axle type.
447 for a motor vehicle having a steering gear which is
provided with power assist of a mechanical nature and wherein
the steerable wheel or wheels, while not driven, may be of
the stub-axle type.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
280, Land Vehicles, subclass 124.125 for a general utility
wheeled land vehicle suspension arrangement for separately
supporting a wheel upon an individual stub axle which wheel
may or may not be steerable.
Subclass:
254
Including flexible, axially rotatable means having one
portion fixed to vehicle and another portion pivotable with
wheel for transmitting drive thereto:
This subclass is indented under subclass 253. Vehicle wherein
the arrangement for drivingly rotating the steerable wheel
includes means (e.g., a shaft) which (a) is flexible (e.g.,
by means of a universal joint), (b) is rotatable about an
axis corresponding generally with its centerline, (c) has one
portion (e.g., that adjacent the vehicle's motor) anchored,
except for axial rotation, to the vehicle (e.g., to its body,
chassis, differential, etc.), and (d) has another portion
located at or adjacent to the wheel and pivotable therewith,
the purpose of the means being to transmit rotational drive
to the wheel regardless of its angle of pivot.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 337+ for a motor vehicle provided with means to
transmit power from its motor to its wheels.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
403, Joints and Connections, subclasses 52+ for a
connection between two or more members which provides for
relative movement of the members about a bearing surface.
464, Rotary Shafts, Gudgeons, Housings, and Flexible
Couplings for Rotary Shafts, appropriate subclasses for
flexible shafting and flexible shaft couplings; and
particularly subclasses 106+ for a flexible coupling
between torque transmitting members having misaligned or
angularly related axes.
Subclass:
255
Pivotable portion of means has additional structure of
gearlike nature in driving engagement with corresponding
structure on wheel:
This subclass is indented under subclass 254. Vehicle wherein
that portion of the flexible, axially rotatable means which
is pivotable with the steerable wheel, and the steerable
wheel, are each provided with structure in the nature of a
gear, which structures are in drive-transmitting engagement,
or are otherwise drivingly connected, with one another.
(1) Note. "Structure in the nature of a gear" includes, for
example, a toothed gear for intermeshing with another such
gear, a wheel having a friction surface on its periphery for
engaging another wheel of like nature, a sprocket for driving
interconnection with another sprocket by means of a chain,
etc.
Subclass:
256
Means comprises rotatable shaft containing plural universal
joints:
This subclass is indented under subclass 254. Vehicle wherein
the means is a rotatable, elongated member having, within its
length and exclusive of its extremities, for the purpose of
rendering it flexible, two or more connections of the kind
which are capable of receiving rotational movement along one
axis and are further capable of accommodating changes in the
angular relationship of one of those axes to the other.
Subclass:
257
Having at least one joint located on each side of axis of
pivot:
This subclass is indented under subclass 256. Vehicle wherein
one or more of the universal joints of the shaft is located
in one direction laterally from the axis about which the
steerable wheel pivots, and another one or more of the
universal joints is located in the opposite direction
laterally from the axis of pivot.
Subclass:
258
Pivotable portion of means includes ball or socket element of
ball and socket type universal joint:
This subclass is indented under subclass 254. Vehicle wherein
that portion of the flexible, axially rotatable means which
is pivotable with the steerable wheel includes one or the
other of the principal elements of a universal joint of the
ball and socket type.
Subclass:
259
Joint includes intermediate ball, floating in groove, for
positively engaging ball with socket:
This subclass is indented under subclass 258. Vehicle wherein
the ball and socket universal joint is of the kind which is
provided with, between the ball and the socket, one or more
(usually a plurality of) balls which are significantly
smaller than the ball of the joint, and wherein grooves for
receiving a portion of the periphery of each of the
intermediate balls are provided in either the ball or the
socket or both, each intermediate ball being permitted some
movement in its groove in a direction parallel to the axis of
the shaft of either the ball or the socket, but serving to
key the ball and socket to one another insofar as rotational
movement of their shafts is concerned.
(1) Note. Structure resembling a bearing race may be
provided for maintaining a fixed lateral spacing between each
of a plurality of the intermediate balls.
Subclass:
260
Pivotable portion of means includes gear element of
intermeshing gear type universal joint:
This subclass is indented under subclass 254. Vehicle wherein
that portion of the flexible, axially rotatable means which
is pivotable with the steerable wheel includes a member
having a toothed, or equivalent, surface, which member
comprises one of the two or more gear elements of a universal
joint of the intermeshing gear type.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, subclasses 63+ for a
mechanical movement for transferring rotary motion in kind.
Subclass:
261
Joint includes at lest one gear element rotatable on axis of
pivot and intermeshing with gear element on pivotable
portion:
This subclass is indented under subclass 260. Vehicle wherein
the intermeshing gear type universal joint includes one or
more gear elements having an axis of rotation which coincides
with the axis of pivot, at least one of the elements being in
intermeshing engagement with the gear element which is
pivotable with the steerable wheel.
Subclass:
262
Joint also includes gear element on fixed portion engaging
gear element on axis of pivot and vertically offset from gear
element on pivotable portion:
This subclass is indented under subclass 261. Vehicle wherein
the intermeshing gear type universal joint additionally
includes a gear element which is (a) located on the fixed
portion of the flexible, axially rotatable means and meshing
with a gear element of the one or more gear elements which
have an axis of rotation coinciding with the axis of pivot
and (b) offset in a vertical direction from the gear element
which is located on the pivotable portion of the means.
(1) Note. The offset mentioned is for the purpose of
adapting the joint to accommodate a difference in elevation
between the axes of rotation of the two portions of the
flexible, axially rotatable means.
(2) Note. Usually there are at least two, separated members
each having a gear element formed thereon, which have an axis
of rotation that coincides with the axis of pivot; however,
it is possible that, instead of having separated members on
the axis, there will be a single member thereon and that
member will have at least two gear elements formed on spaced
regions thereof.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
267 for a motor vehicle having a driven axle carrying two or
more wheels and swingable about an axis of pivot for
steering, and wherein the arrangement for transferring drive
from the motor to the wheels includes a shaft which rotates
about an axis which corresponds with the axis of pivot.
Subclass:
263
Having axis of pivot disposed between parallel planes defined
by opposite sides of wheel:
This subclass is indented under subclass 254. Vehicle wherein
the axis of pivot of the steerable wheel lies within the
space bounded on one side by a plane perpendicular to the
axis about which the wheel is driven and tangent to the outer
surface of one side of the wheel and bounded on the opposite
side by another plane parallel to the first plane and tangent
to the outer surface of the other side of the wheel.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
280, Land Vehicles, subclass 124.126 for a general utility
wheeled land vehicle suspension arrangement for separately
supporting a wheel upon an individual stub axle wherein the
wheel is mounted for steering purposes and the connection
points defining the steering pivot axis are confined within
the boundary of the wheel.
Subclass:
264
With driven axle, mounting two or more wheels, swingable
about axis of pivot, and motor mounted to swing therewith:
This subclass is indented under subclass 252. Vehicle
provided with at least one axle, which axle (a) is driven for
a vehicle propelling purpose, (b) carries a plurality of
wheels, and (c) is movable about the axis of pivot for
enabling its wheel to perform a steering function, and
wherein the motor for imparting driving rotation to the axle
and its wheels is mounted in such a manner as to partake of
the swingable movement of the axle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 213+ for a motor vehicle having a wheel
arrangement comprising three wheels and wherein at least one
wheel is steerable and further wherein the vehicle's motor is
mounted to swing with the steerable wheel.
subclasses 237+ for a motor vehicle having four wheels
driven and provided with means for steering all of the driven
wheels and wherein the means comprises wheel-carrying axles
mounted for swinging about individual, generally vertical
axes of pivot.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
280, Land Vehicles, subclass 93.504 for a general utility
wheeled land vehicle including occupant controlled steering
wherein the steering mechanism involves movement of an axle
or axle assembly about a vertically oriented pivot axis;
subclass 124.109 for a general utility wheeled land vehicle
suspension arrangement having a self-sustaining structural
assembly disposed between the vehicle body, chassis, or frame
and the axle, wheel, or wheels; subclasses 124.114+ for a
general utility wheeled land vehicle suspension arrangement
having an axle or axle assembly mounted upon both a
longitudinally directed pivot axis and a vertically oriented
pivot axis; or subclasses 124.117+ for a general utility
wheeled land vehicle including a resilient, shock absorbing
mounted axle or axle assembly pivotally mounted about a
vertical pivot axis.
Subclass:
265
Having axle offset longitudinally of vehicle from axis of
pivot:
This subclass is indented under subclass 264. Vehicle wherein
the axis of pivot about which the axle swings is spaced from
the axle lengthwise of the vehicle.
(1) Note. In the art of this subclass, the axis of pivot
frequently is the axis of articulation of an articulated
vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
235 for a motor vehicle having four wheels driven and means
for steering all of the driven wheels and wherein the means
comprises an articulated frame for the vehicle and means for
pivoting one portion of the frame relative to the other
portion about a generally vertical axis located approximately
at the center of the vehicle.
238 as explained in the reference to subclass 237 in
subclass 264 above and with the further observation that
subclass 238 provides for at least one of the axles to be
offset from its axis of pivot.
Subclass:
266
With driven axle, mounting two or more wheels, swingable
about axis of pivot, and swingable also about a horizontal
axis:
This subclass is indented under subclass 252. Vehicle
provided with at least one axle, which axle (a) is driven for
a vehicle propelling purpose, (b) carries a plurality of
wheels, and (c) is movable about the axis of pivot for
enabling its wheels to perform a steering function, and
wherein the axle is so attached to the vehicle (e.g., as by a
universal joint) that it may pivot about an axis which is
horizontal and is perpendicular to the axle.
(1) Note. The additional swingable movement of the axle
enables it to rock as the vehicle passes across bumps or over
obstructions.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
280, Land Vehicles, subclass 93.504 for a general utility
wheeled land vehicle including occupant controlled steering
wherein the steering mechanism involves movement of an axle
or axle assembly about a vertically oriented pivot axis;
subclass 124.109 for a general utility wheeled land vehicle
suspension arrangement having a self-sustaining structural
assembly disposed between the vehicle body, chassis, or frame
and the axle, wheel, or wheels; subclasses 124.114+ for a
general utility wheeled land vehicle suspension arrangement
having an axle or axle assembly mounted upon both a
longitudinally directed pivot axis and a vertically oriented
pivot axis; or subclasses 124.117+ for a general utility
wheeled land vehicle including a resiliently mounted axle or
axle assembly pivotally mounted about a vertical pivot axis.
Subclass:
267
With driven axle, mounting two or more wheels, swingable
about axis of pivot, and shaft for transmitting drive
coincident with axis:
This subclass is indented under subclass 252. Vehicle
provided with at least one axle, which axle (a) is driven for
a vehicle propelling purpose, (b) carries a plurality of
wheels, and (c) is movable about the axis of pivot for
enabling its wheels to perform a steering function, and
wherein the arrangement for transmitting drive from the motor
to the wheels includes a shaft which rotates about an axis
which corresponds with the axis of pivot.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
262 for a motor vehicle having at least one wheel which is
both steerable and driven, which wheel has an exclusive axis
of pivot for steering, and wherein is included flexible,
axially rotatable means having one portion fixed to the
vehicle and another portion pivotable with the wheel for
transmitting drive to the wheel and further wherein the
pivotable portion of the means includes a gear element of an
intermeshing gear type of universal joint and additionally
wherein the universal joint includes at least one gear
element rotatable on the axis of pivot and intermeshing with
a gear element on the pivotable portion and lastly wherein
the joint also includes a gear element on the fixed portion
engaging the gear element on the axis of pivot and vertically
offset from the gear element on the pivotable portion.
Subclass:
268
WITH BELT OR HARNESS FOR RESTRAINING OCCUPANT, AND MEANS
WHEREBY THE BELT OR HARNESS CONTROLS, OR IS CONTROLLED BY,
THE FUNCTIONING OF A VEHICLE SYSTEM OR COMPONENT:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus wherein the vehicle is provided with one or more
devices consisting principally of a flexible, straplike
member, or an assembly of such members, for engaging an
occupant of the vehicle and preventing or limiting movement
of the occupant relative to the vehicle upon a change in the
momentum of the latter, and means whereby either (a) the
belt, by its status (i.e., use or nonuse), renders a system
(e.g., the ignition circuit) or a component (e.g., the
transmission selector lever) of the vehicle either operative
or inoperative or not properly positioned to function in its
intended manner, or (b) as the result of the operation, or
the failure to do so, or the improper positioning, of such
system or component, the belt is itself placed in a condition
whereby it either can, or cannot, serve to restrain the
occupant.
(1) Note. An inflatable device (e.g., an air bag) for
restraining an occupant of a vehicle of either a Class 180
type or a Class 280 type is classified in Class 280, Land
Vehicles, subclasses 728.1+, without regard to which one of
these two classes otherwise would take the particular vehicle
involved. Moreover, the inflatable device may be in the
nature of, or used in conjunction with, a belt or strap, as
recognized by indented subclass 733.
(2) Note. As in the case of an inflatable device, as
explained in (1) Note, a belt or harness of the passive
restraint type (i.e., a belt or harness system which places
itself in occupant-restraining position, and subsequently
removes itself therefrom, without the aid of any manipulative
effort on the part of the vehicle occupant) likewise is
classified in Class 280, Land Vehicles, in this instance in
subclasses 802+, without regard to whether the vehicle
constitutes a motor vehicle or a land vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 271+ for a motor vehicle provided with means for
promoting the safety of the vehicle, its occupant or load, or
an external object.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
24, Buckles, Buttons, Clasps, etc., appropriate subclasses
for a device in the nature of a buckle for joining two,
straplike members, particularly subclasses 572+.
242, Winding, Tensioning, or Guiding, especially subclasses
382+ for a seat belt reeling device.
244, Aeronautics, subclass 122 for a seat peculiar to an
aircraft and a device for holding an occupant thereto.
280, Land Vehicles, subclass 728.1 for a vehicle, generally,
provided with an inflatable passenger restraint, and see (1)
Note above; subclasses 801.1+ and 805 through 808 for a land
vehicle provided with a safety belt arrangement; and
subclasses 802+ for a vehicle, generally, provided with a
safety belt arrangement of the passive restraint type, and
see (2) Note above; in regard to subclasses 801.1+ and 805
through 808, classification here (subclasses 268+) is proper
if the safety belt arrangement is interlinked operationally
with a system (e.g., ignition, transmission, etc.) which is
peculiar to the vehicle as a motor vehicle or if the vehicle
is established as being provided with a source of electrical
power; however, the recital of an electrical device or
element which is peculiar to only the safety belt arrangement
is not sufficient for classification here (subclasses 268+).
297, Chairs and Seats, subclasses 464+ for a chair or seat
provided with a body or occupant restraint or confinement and
see (1) Note of subclass 464 as to the scope thereof.
307, Electrical Transmission or Interconnection Systems,
subclass 10.6 for a specific, vehicle-mounted, electrical
system which may involve a circuit which includes elements of
a seat belt.
340, Communications: Electrical, subclass 457.1 for an
electric alarm or indicator responsive to the status
(fastened or unfastened) of a vehicle seat belt.
Subclass:
269
System comprises transmission or element thereof:
This subclass is indented under subclass 268. Apparatus
wherein the vehicle system is the mechanism which transmits
or adapts the power of the engine or motor to the use of at
least one road wheel or an element of the mechanism.
(1) Note. Most frequently it is a control (e.g., selector)
lever for the transmission which either (a) is rendered
inoperative by the belt being in nonuse status or (b) by
being positioned improperly, prevents the belt from
fulfilling its restraining function.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 337+ for a motor vehicle provided with mechanism
connecting the power shaft to the road wheels.
Subclass:
270
System comprises ignition circuit or starter circuit or
element of one or other:
This subclass is indented under subclass 268. Apparatus
wherein the vehicle system is either the elements and wiring
for providing electrical impulses to the motor or the
elements and wiring for providing cranking torque to the
motor or any part of either circuit.
Subclass:
271
WITH MEANS FOR PROMOTING SAFETY OF VEHICLE, ITS OCCUPANT OR
LOAD, OR AN EXTERNAL OBJECT:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Vehicle
having means, not provided for elsewhere, in the nature of an
element or device or system, or an operational
interconnection between elements or devices or systems of the
vehicle, which means has the purpose of (1) protecting the
vehicle by (a) decreasing its likelihood of being involved in
a collision or other accident, (b) rendering it less
vulnerable to damage from such a collision or accident, (c)
making it less susceptible to damage resulting from being
incorrectly started, operated, or stopped by an unskilled
operator or one unfamiliar with the vehicle, or (d)
decreasing the possibility of its being entered or operated
by a person not intended to have access to the vehicle; (2)
protecting an occupant or a load either as a result of
protecting the vehicle in one or more of the ways noted in
(1) above or as a result of providing a restraint or shield
for the occupant or load; or (3) protecting an external
object, including another vehicle or an obstacle, either as a
result of protecting the vehicle in one or more of the ways
noted in (1) above or as a result of utilizing, for the
vehicle, external structure which is less likely to damage
the object or obstacle.
(1) Note. The means of this and the indented subclasses
usually has a capability for ascertaining a condition which
involves, or may involve, the safety (as set of the above) of
the vehicle and for acting in response thereto to protect the
vehicle, its occupant or load, or an object (including
another vehicle) external of the vehicle.
(2) Note. This and the indented subclasses represent a
reclassification of former subclasses 82+ (i.e., former
subclasses 82 and 91 to 114), less former subclasses 98 and
105+, for which subclasses 167+ and 170+, respectively, have
been established above. Concurrent with the reclassification,
the safety concept was assigned a more superior position in
the schedule. As a result of that relocation, this area
(subclasses 271+) is incomplete to the extent that any
intervening, unreclassified subclass may contain
safety-related subject matter; it is believed, however, that,
should such art exist, it will be confined principally to
subclasses 315+.
(3) Note. While subclass 90 was not included in this
project, it is believed that art pertaining to a resilient
(e.g., padded) dashboard has been placed there without regard
to whether it constituted a safety device within the concept
of former subclasses 82+.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
41 for a motor vehicle provided with means for raising the
frame or body relative to one or more of the vehicle wheels;
inasmuch as that subclass (41) was not included in the
classification project which established this area
(subclasses 271+), principally from former subclasses 82+, no
assurance can be given that it (subclass 41) does not contain
art which, while having a safety aspect, was not previously
considered as comprising a "safety device" within the meaning
of former subclass 82.
78 for a motor vehicle provided with a controlling device
which is mounted on the vehicle's steering post, and see the
mention of subclasses 315+ in (2) Note above.
90 for a motor vehicle provided with a body and wherein the
body has structure in the nature of a dashboard, which
dashboard may be of a resilient (e.g., padded) type, and see
(3) Note above.
232 for a motor vehicle provided with means for (a)
protecting its motor from the impact of a collision, (b)
utilizing the mass of the motor to absorb the force of a
collision, or (c) protecting its occupant region from an
impact-induced shifting of its motor.
subclasses 268+ for a motor vehicle provided with a belt or
harness for restraining an occupant and means whereby the
belt or harness controls, or it is controlled by, the
functioning of a vehicle system or component.
subclasses 405+ for a motor vehicle provided with steering
gear of the fluid power assist type and wherein secondary
means is provided for insuring the availability of power to
aid in manipulating the steering gear in the event of failure
of the primary means.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
15, Brushing, Scrubbing, and General Cleaning, subclass
250.001 for an optical member cleaner (e.g., a windshield
wiper).
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, subclasses 492+ for a
steering post, per se, which may include a post which is
collapsible or deformable.
188, Brakes, appropriate subclasses for a device or system
for slowing or stopping a vehicle (e.g., an arrangement for
controlling the "fishtailing" of a towed vehicle with respect
to its towing vehicle by utilizing the brakes of one or both
vehicles may be found in subclass 112 ).
192, Clutches and Power-Stop Controls, appropriate subclasses
for the interrelated control of a motor and a clutch or a
brake.
239, Fluid Sprinkling, Spraying, and Diffusing, subclass
284.1 for a windshield-type liquid sprayer.
280, Land Vehicles, subclass 5.5, especially subclasses
5.501+ for a general utility land vehicle including an active
suspension responsive to a force encountered while the
vehicle is in surface traversing motion; subclasses 124.103,
124.104+, and 124.106+ for a general utility wheeled land
vehicle suspension arrangement specifically provided to
prevent adverse disposition of the vehicle body, chassis, or
frame; subclass 432 for a general utility wheeled land
vehicle train of semitrailer construction including a safety
feature in the nature of either (a) means to prevent
excessive horizontal swing of the trailer or (b) means to
prevent separation of the tractor and the trailer in the
event of failure of the coupling means; subclasses 728.1+,
801.1+, and 805 through 808, as explained in the search note
appearing within subclass 268 of this class (Class 180);
subclasses 802+, also as explained in the (1) and (2) Notes
appearing within subclass 268 of this class (Class 180);
subclasses 748+ for a general utility wheeled land vehicle
provided with a passenger safety guard; subclass 756 for a
general utility wheeled land vehicle provided with an
attachment in the nature of a roll bar and/or an overhead
guard; subclasses 757+ for a general utility wheeled land
vehicle provided with an attachment for providing traction
with a road surface; subclass 770 for a general utility
wheeled land vehicle provided with an attachment for
protecting the vehicle from externally caused damage; or
subclass 777 for a general utility wheeled land vehicle
including occupant controlled steering having a steering
column or steering wheel deformable or otherwise movable in
response to the force of a collision.
291, Track Sanders, appropriate subclasses for means for
applying sand or like material to the tread of a vehicle
wheel or to the surface which underlyingly supports the
wheel, or to both, for the purpose of increasing the
coefficient of friction between the wheel and the surface.
Certain subclasses (e.g., 2, 3, 4, 14, 15, 19, 22, 39, and
40) thereof provide for the combination of specific vehicle
structure, or particular vehicle operation, with the means.
293, Vehicle Fenders, appropriate subclasses for a vehicle
attached device for removing persons or animals from the path
of a moving vehicle, or for catching and retaining such
persons or animals, or for receiving or fending off blows
from other vehicles or objects.
297, Chairs and Seats, subclasses 464+ as explained in the
reference thereto appearing in subclass 268.1 above, and see
particularly indented subclasses 487+.
303, Fluid-Pressure and Analogous Brake Systems, subclass 7
for the distribution of braking fluid to a plurality of
braking motors, and wherein the motors are those on a
sectional train and the fluid is distributed differently to
the different sections; and subclasses 121+ for fluid braking
apparatus wherein the distribution of braking fluid, and
therefore the braking action, is regulated at least in part
by a speed condition.
340, Communications: Electrical, subclasses 438+ for
vehicle alarms or indicators responsive to a condition of the
vehicle which condition may relate to the safety or
protection of the vehicle or its occupants.
477, Interrelated Power Delivery Controls, Including Engine
Control, for transmission and engine start interlock.
Subclass:
272
Responsive to absence or inattention of operator, or
negatively reactive to attempt to operate vehicle by person
not qualified mentally or physically to do so:
This subclass is indented under subclass 271. Vehicle wherein
the means either (a) initiates action to safeguard the
vehicle or an occupant (e.g., applies brake, closes throttle,
sounds alarm, etc.) when the operator is not at his usual
station or fails to positively indicate his presence and/or
his attentiveness (e.g., a "deadman-type" control), or (b)
foils an attempt to start or drive the vehicle if the
would-be operator is unable to demonstrate his mental or
physical capacity to do so (e.g., a "coded" ignition lock for
dissuading one who is inebriated).
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
246, Railway Switches and Signals, subclass 186 for train
control involving means located on the train for controlling
its motive power, which may include deadman-type control
devices.
303, Fluid-Pressure and Analogous Brake Systems, subclass 19
for a brake system wherein distribution of the fluid is
initiated upon some failure of the operator.
340, Communications: Electrical, subclass 573.1 for a
condition responsive indicating system of that class, which
system is responsive to the condition of a human being or an
animal, and see particularly subclasses 575 and 576
thereunder.
600, Surgery, subclass 300 for diagnostical devices which
may include breath analyzers.
Subclass:
273
Utilizing weight, or lack thereof, of operator on seat or
other support to determine presence or absence:
This subclass is indented under subclass 272. Vehicle wherein
the determination of the operator's presence or absence is
made by investigating whether or not his weight is detected
at his seat or such other structure as may be provided for
his support.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
188, Brakes, subclass 109 for a brake which may be operated
by the imposition of weight on a vehicle seat.
340, Communications: Electrical, subclasses 666+ for a
condition responsive indicating system of that class, which
system is responsive to weight.
Subclass:
274
Responsive to engagement of portion of perimeter of vehicle
with external object:
This subclass is indented under subclass 271. Vehicle wherein
the means responds to a contact of an outermost portion, or
an element (e.g., a bumper for protecting the vehicle body)
thereon, of the vehicle with an object (e.g., a roadway
guardrail, another vehicle, etc.) which is not a part of the
vehicle.
(1) Note. The art of this and the indented subclasses
represents a reclassification of former subclasses 91+. It
has not been possible at this time to determine whether a
conflict may exist between the art of this subclass (274) and
that of subclasses 2+ of Class 293.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
232 as explained in the reference thereto appearing in
subclass 271 above.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
200, Electricity: Circuit Makers and Breakers, subclass
61.44 for a feeler which is attached to a moving vehicle and
which detects an object upon contact therewith.
293, Vehicle Fenders, subclasses 2+ for a vehicle fender
interconnected in operation with a car-controlling element
(and see (1) Note above).
Subclass:
275
And causing application of vehicle brake:
This subclass is indented under subclass 274. Vehicle wherein
the response of the means results, either directly or by way
of an intermediate mechanism or an additional means, in the
operation of one or more devices on the vehicle which are
intended to slow or stop it.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
295, Vehicle Fenders, subclass 5, 6, and 8 for a vehicle
fender interconnected in operation with a car-controlling
element and wherein, in subclass 5, the fender is movable and
the element is a fluid brake system for the car, and wherein,
in subclass 6, the element is a brake which engages a surface
which supports the vehicle, and wherein, in subclass 8, the
element is a brake shoe; also in regard to this area of Class
293, see (1) Note of subclass 274 above.
Subclass:
276
Brake comprises or includes element moved or deformed into
engagement with ground:
This subclass is indented under subclass 275. Vehicle wherein
the device is an element which is attached to, or forms an
integral portion of, the vehicle and is movable, or
deformable, into frictional contact with the ground (e.g.,
the surface of a road).
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
188, Brakes, subclasses 5+ for a ground- engaging brake for
a nonrail-type vehicle.
Subclass:
277
And also interruption of at least one operational system of
the vehicle or its motor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 275. Vehicle wherein
the response of the means additionally results in stopping,
momentarily or otherwise, the functioning of one or more
systems of the vehicle having to do with its operation (e.g.,
clutch, steering, transmission) or with that of its motor
(e.g., ignition, fuel flow).
Subclass:
278
System comprises clutch:
This subclass is indented under subclass 277. Vehicle wherein
the operational system involved is the clutch of the
vehicle.
Subclass:
279
And causing interruption of an electrical system of the
vehicle or its motor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 274. Vehicle wherein
the response of the means results in stopping, momentarily or
otherwise, the functioning of an electrical system of either
the vehicle (e.g., battery circuit) or the motor thereof
(e.g., ignition circuit).
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
293, Vehicle Fenders, subclass 4 for a vehicle fender
interconnected in operation with a car-controlling element in
the nature of an electric switch, and see (1) Note of
subclass 274 above.
Subclass:
280
And causing operation of vehicle steering system:
This subclass is indented under subclass 274. Vehicle wherein
the response of the means results in the manipulation of the
steering system of the vehicle for the purpose of altering
its course of travel.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 400+ especially 443, for a motor vehicle (e.g.,
an unattended lawn mower) having an impact-responsive
steering system, but wherein the safety aspect of this
subclass (280) is absent and wherein the capability of the
vehicle for changing its course of travel as the result of
contacting an obstruction (e.g., a guide) is essential to its
normal operation.
Subclass:
281
Comprising either movable closure member or fastening device
therefor responsive to forward or rearward movement, or
variations therein, of vehicle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 271. Vehicle wherein
the means comprises (a) a movable closure member of the
vehicle or (b) a device for preventing such a closure member
from opening, and wherein the closure member changes position
or the fastening device undergoes a change of status (e.g.,
locked to released) in response either to movement of the
vehicle in a forward or rearward direction or to changes in
its movement in one or the other of these directions.
(1) Note. "Fastening device" includes such structure as is
involved in keeping a door or other movable closure member in
its closed position and may comprise a latch bolt, a lock,
etc.
(2) Note. The response may be contingent upon the
attainment by the vehicle of a predetermined speed.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
49, Movable or Removable Closures, subclass 31 for a closure
of that class which is provided with means to sense a
condition and with means responsive to the sensing means to
effect control of the closure.
Subclass:
282
Responsive to sensing of acceleration, deceleration, or tilt
of vehicle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 271. Vehicle wherein
the means responds to the determination of or the reaction to
(a) a change in the velocity of travel of the vehicle or (b)
a tipping movement of the vehicle in either a side-to-side or
a forwardly-rearwardly direction.
(1) Note. The sensing frequently is that accomplished by a
gravity-sensitive device (e.g., a mercury switch, a
pendulum), but may be, instead, that of a less sophisticated
device such as a mechanical linkage serving to transfer the
effect of a physical force or movement.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
41 as explained in the reference thereto appearing in
subclass 271 above.
172 for a motor vehicle provided with means which is
responsive to the speed of the vehicle for maintaining its
speed at, or preventing it from exceeding, a particular value
and wherein the means includes a device which is responsive
to centrifugal force, which device may be, as explained in
(1) Note of that subclass (172), a pendulum.
subclasses 274+ for a motor vehicle provided with a
safety-promoting means which is responsive to the engagement
of a portion of the perimeter of the vehicle with an external
object (e.g., collision-caused deceleration).
281 for a motor vehicle provided with a safety-promoting
means which comprises either a movable closure member or a
fastening device therefor which is responsive to forward or
rearward movement, or variations therein, of the vehicle.
290 for a motor vehicle provided with a safety promoting
means which is responsive to the weight of a cargo load
transported by the vehicle; in the instance of a vehicle
which is caused to tilt by the weight of the load applied,
classification is here (subclass 282) if the means responds
to the tilting rather than, or in addition to, the weight of
the load.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
200, Electricity: Circuit Makers and Breakers, subclass
61.45 for a switch responsive to a change of rate of motion
or a change of inclination.
280, Land Vehicles, subclass 5.5, especially subclasses
5.501+ for a general utility land vehicle including an active
suspension responsive to a force encountered while the
vehicle is in surface traversing motion; subclasses 124.103,
124.104+, and 124.106+ for a general utility wheeled land
vehicle suspension arrangement specifically provided to
prevent adverse disposition of the vehicle body, chassis, or
frame; subclasses 734+ for a general utility wheeled land
vehicle including an inflatable passenger restraint
responsive to a condition of the vehicle; subclass 753 for a
general utility wheeled land vehicle passenger safety guard
attachment in the nature of a padded or cushioned member
wherein the member is positionable by an automatic actuator;
or subclass 755 for a general utility wheeled land vehicle
attachment preventing the vehicle from tilting or tipping
beyond a given point.
Subclass:
283
And causing interruption of ignition circuit:
This subclass is indented under subclass 282. Vehicle wherein
the response of the means results in stopping, momentarily or
otherwise, the flow of current to or within the ignition
system of the vehicle's motor.
Subclass:
284
And also impeding flow of fuel:
This subclass is indented under subclass 283. Vehicle wherein
the response of the means results, additionally, in slowing
or stopping the movement of gasoline or other fuel to the
vehicle's motor.
Subclass:
285
And causing disruption of drive train between motor and
wheels:
This subclass is indented under subclass 282. Vehicle wherein
the response of the means results in creating a discontinuity
in the train of elements and mechanisms which serve to
transmit power from the motor of the vehicle to its wheels.
(1) Note. The subject matter of this subclass frequently is
directed to a ground-actuated linkage for disengaging the
vehicle's clutch.
Subclass:
286
Comprising vehicle system or component responsive either to
position of movable closure member or to status of fastening
device therefor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 271. Vehicle wherein
the means comprises a system or a component of the vehicle
which system or component is responsive to (a) the position,
or a change therein, of a movable closure member of the
vehicle or (b) the status, or change therein, of a device for
preventing such a closure member from opening.
(1) Note. See (1) Note of subclass 281 above for an
explanation of "fastening device".
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
49, Movable or Removable Closures, subclass 31 as explained
in the reference thereto appearing in subclass 281 above.
Subclass:
287
By preventing unauthorized or unintended access or use:
This subclass is indented under subclass 271. Vehicle wherein
the means has as its purpose the prevention of use of the
vehicle or access to it by a person or persons, or for a
purpose or purposes, not reasonably contemplated.
(1) Note. Neither a mere keyed lock for a vehicle closure
member nor a keyed ignition switch constitute subject matter
for this subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
173 for a motor vehicle provided with means responsive to
the speed of the vehicle for maintaining the speed at, or
preventing it from exceeding, a particular value and wherein
the means includes a drive responsive to centrifugal force
and further wherein there is also included means to prevent
tampering or unauthorized use, and see the observation of (1)
Note of that subclass.
272 for a motor vehicle provided with a safety-promoting
means which may be of the kind which reacts negatively to an
attempt by a mentally or physically unqualified person to
operate the vehicle (e.g., an ignition lock which is
responsive to an alphabetical or digital input code).
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
70, Locks, subclasses 237+ for locks adapted for use on
automotive vehicles.
123, Internal-Combustion Engines, subclass 198 for
accessories for an internal combustion engine, which
accessories may be of an antitheft nature.
137, Fluid Handling, appropriate subclasses (e.g., subclasses
351+ or 383+) for a fluid handling system which is, or may
be, associated with a vehicle, and which system may include
an antitheft provision.
188, Brakes, appropriate subclasses, and see particularly
subclass 353, for a brake of the fluid pressure type which is
applied to a motor or other road vehicle and wherein means is
provided to trap fluid in the brake system to hold the brake
applied.
200, Electricity: Circuit Makers and Breakers, subclass
42.01 and 43.01+ for a circuit maker and breaker provided
with means for preventing its operation except by one
authorized to use it.
303, Fluid-Pressure and Analogous Brake Systems, appropriate
subclasses, and see particularly subclass 89, for a system of
the kind provided for in that class and wherein the system
includes a device for maintaining the parts of the system in
a position which may be that of brake application.
307, Electrical Transmission or Interconnection Systems,
subclass 10.2 for an electrical distribution system mounted
in an automotive vehicle, which system may include an
antitheft provision.
340, Communications: Electrical, subclasses 426+ for
vehicle mounted antitheft alarms.
Subclass:
288
Responsive to failure of taxicab operator to activate fare
meter upon boarding of passenger:
This subclass is indented under subclass 287. Vehicle wherein
the means having the purpose of preventing unauthorized or
unintended access or use is one which responds to the
omission of the operator of a motor vehicle of the for-hire
type to place into operation, when a person engaging the
vehicle boards it, a register provided on the vehicle for
determining the charge for a trip, the response consisting of
making the vehicle inoperative.
Subclass:
289
Comprising element, mechanism, or system for either
repositioning a movable or removable closure member or
operating a fastening device therefor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 287. Vehicle wherein
the means having the purpose of preventing unauthorized or
unintended access or use comprises an element, mechanism, or
system for (a) moving a vehicle closure member which is
either movable or removable to a different position or
location or (b) changing the status (e.g., locked to
released) of a device for preventing movement of such a
closure member.
(1) Note. See (1) Note of subclass 281 above for an
explanation of "fastening device".
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
281 for a motor vehicle provided with a safety-promoting
means which comprises either a movable closure member or a
fastening device therefor responsive to forward or rearward
movement, or variations therein, of the vehicle.
286 for a motor vehicle provided with a safety-promoting
means which comprises a vehicle system or component
responsive either to the position of a movable closure member
or to the status of a fastening device therefor.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
49, Movable or Removable Closures, subclass 35 for a closure
member of that class which may be controlled by a key; and
subclass 72 for a window mounted in a door and wherein
movement of the window relative to the door is interrelated
with the movement of a means for latching the door.
70, Locks, appropriate subclasses (e.g., subclasses 237+
and 262+) for means or a system for locking a closure member
of a motorized vehicle.
292, Closure Fasteners, appropriate subclasses for fasteners
for vehicle closure members.
Subclass:
290
Responsive to weight of cargo load transported by vehicle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 271. Vehicle wherein
the means responds to the downward force created by the
articles or material placed on the vehicle for movement
thereby.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
14.5 for two or more connected vehicles, at least one of the
vehicles being a motor vehicle, and wherein the connection
between the motor vehicle and at least one vehicle drawn
thereby includes means for stopping the motor of the motor
vehicle or for releasing the load in the event the load
exceeds the capacity of the motor vehicle.
282 for a motor vehicle provided with a safety-promoting
means which may be responsive to a tilt of the vehicle, and
see the reference therein (subclass 282) to this subclass
(290) for an explanation of the relationship of the
subclasses.
Subclass:
291
Having specific motor-to-body-frame relationship:
This subclass is indented under subclass 54.1. Vehicle
wherein either (1) the device which develops the power for
propelling the vehicle or (2) the device of (1) plus an
attached or integral accessary (e.g., clutch, transmission,
etc.) therefor, or (3) the device of (1) plus some other
component (e.g., fender, front wheel suspension, etc.) of the
vehicle, or any combination of (1), (2), or (3) is either (a)
related peculiarly to the body frame of the vehicle (e.g., by
giving it a particular location thereon) or (b) related to a
body frame which, in itself, is more than a mere
support--provided that no other locus for such subject matter
exists.
(1) Note. The line between this area, formerly subclass 64,
and subclasses 55+ is not clear. While the art found in
former subclass 64 has been broken down and identified in
this and the indented subclasses, no attempt has been made to
reconcile its locus with that of the art of subclass 55 or
its indented subclasses.
(2) Note. While the definition of former subclass 64
referred to "the main or body frame as distinguished from an
under-frame" (in contrast, of course, with the definition of
subclass 55), the terms are not meaningfully definable nor,
in the art, are the two kinds of frames necessarily either
(a) readily identifiable or (b) clearly distinguishable;
moreover, vehicle structures frequently utilize only one such
frame or the other and, in some instances, neither.
(3) Note. In view of the provision in inferior subclasses
65.1+ for a motor vehicle having an electric motor, and in
inferior subclasses 301, 302+, and 305+ (all of which were
developed from former subclasses 66+) for a motor vehicle
having a fluid motor, the art which had accumulated in former
subclass 64, and which comprises the bulk of the art in this
(291) and the indented subclasses, tended to be that
pertaining principally to the mounting of a motor of the
internal combustion engine type.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
228 for a motor vehicle having a wheel arrangement
comprising two wheels in tandem relationship and wherein the
vehicle includes resilient means for mounting its motor.
232 for a motor vehicle provided with means for (a)
protecting its motor from the impact of a collision, (b)
utilizing the mass of the motor to absorb the force of a
collision, or (c) protecting its occupant region from an
impact-induced shifting of its motor.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
105, Railway Rolling Stock, subclasses 133+ for the
locating or securing of a motor on a vehicle of that class.
244, Aeronautics, subclass 54 for the mounting of a power
plant on an aircraft.
248, Supports, subclasses 560+ for supports which are
resilient in nature; and subclasses 637+ for supports for
machinery. While the supporting of a nominally claimed
vehicle frame is not beyond the scope of Class 248,
nevertheless classification in Class 180 is proper when the
claims develop specific motor or frame or vehicle aspects of
which the following are exemplary: (a) structure of the
motor which is in addition to that necessary for receiving
the support provided by the frame, (b) motor (e.g., crankcase
parting flange) or motor component (e.g., timing gear cover)
structure which has, in addition to its support function, a
function peculiar to the motor, (c) structure of the frame
which is in addition to that necessary for providing support
to the motor, (d) one or more frame members which, while
serving to support the motor, are disclosed as performing a
frame-related function (e.g., rigidifying the frame), and (e)
vehicle structure not involved solely in supporting the
motor.
280, Land Vehicles, subclasses 781+ for a general utility
wheeled land vehicle running gear including specific frame
construction.
Subclass:
292
Including change-speed gearing, or clutch, mounted in common
with motor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 291. Vehicle
provided with means in the nature of gearing for altering the
speed or direction of the power output of the motor or means
for interrupting said output, the means being either formed
integrally with or attached directly to the motor, or else
mounted along with the motor on a frame which is auxiliary to
the body frame, in order to form an assembly which is
supported as a unit relative to the body frame.
(1) Note. The claiming of only the housing of the gearing
or the clutch is sufficient for classification here.
(2) Note. The mounting in common with the motor of an
accessory or component of a nature other than a change-speed
gearing or a clutch (e.g., a generator, a starter, etc.)
appears occasionally in the art of subclass 291 above.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 374+ for the gear transmission relationship to
the vehicle frame or axle, where the engine is not claimed.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
192, Clutches and Power-Stop Control, appropriate subclasses
for a clutch.
Subclass:
293
With member or mechanism for controlling gearing or clutch,
and means for minimizing transfer of movement, caused by
operation of motor, to member or mechanism:
This subclass is indented under subclass 292. Vehicle
provided with an element or linkage for controlling the
gearing (e.g., by a shift lever) or the clutch (e.g., by a
clutch pedal), and also provided with means for reducing or
eliminating the transfer to the element or linkage of the
movement (e.g., oscillation, vibration) set up by the running
of the vehicle's motor.
(1) Note. The movement of the motor is that permitted by
the mounting customarily provided therefor, which mounting
may or may not be claimed.
(2) Note. The elimination of "clutch chatter" appears
occasionally as an objective of the structure of this
subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 315+ for a motor vehicle provided with a device
for controlling its motor or driving mechanism.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
192, Clutches and Power-Stop Control, subclasses 82+ for a
device for actuating a clutch.
248, Supports, subclasses 560+ and 637+ as explained in the
reference thereto appearing in subclass 291 above.
Subclass:
294
With means enabling repositioning of motor and gearing or
clutch:
This subclass is indented under subclass 292. Vehicle
provided with means for moving, or facilitating the movement
of, the motor and the gearing or clutch either into a
different attitude or location on the body frame or from or
to the body frame.
(1) Note. The repositioning usually is for either changing
the relative location of the motor (e.g., for adjusting the
tension of a drive belt) or making the motor more easily
accessible for service or repair.
(2) Note. See (2) Note of subclass 298 below.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
232 for a motor vehicle provided with means for (a)
protecting the vehicle's motor from the impact of a
collision, (b) utilizing the mass of the motor to absorb the
force of a collision, or (c) protecting the occupant region
of the vehicle from an impact-induced shifting of the motor,
which last-named category of means may include tracks, etc.,
for guiding the resultant movement of the motor.
Subclass:
295
With wheeled auxiliary frame, resiliently joined to body
frame, for supporting motor and gearing or clutch:
This subclass is indented under subclass 292. Vehicle
provided with an additional frame for carrying the motor and
the gearing or clutch, the additional frame having
ground-engaging wheels (e.g., the front wheels of the
vehicle) and being connected to the body frame by one or more
elastic couplings.
(1) Note. In regard to (1) Note of subclass 291, this
subclass, in particular, comprises art which subclasses 55+
may have been intended to provide for.
(2) Note. Since subclasses 11+ were not included in the
reclassification project which established this subclass
(295), the line between the two is not entirely clear at
present. In this subclass (295), however, the
motor-supporting, wheeled, auxiliary frame is an essential
portion of the vehicle and not a component which readily
lends itself to being described as an "attachment".
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 11+ for a motor vehicle having a motor-carrying
attachment, but see (2) Note above.
Subclass:
296
Including means on body frame or motor for handling exhaust:
This subclass is indented under subclass 291. Vehicle wherein
means located with respect to or attached to the body frame
or motor is provided for receiving, conducting, or otherwise
handling the products of combustion discharged from the
motor.
(1) Note. The means most frequently comprises a
motor-attached exhaust pipe or manifold.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
60, Power Plants, subclasses 272+ for the combination of an
engine of the type in which fuel is burned in an expansible
chamber to produce work and means to handle or treat at least
some of the combusted material subsequent to its departure
from the chamber, and see the search notes thereto for other,
exhaust-related subject muffler.
181, Acoustics, subclasses 212+ for a fluid conducting type
matter.
248, Supports, subclasses 49+ for supports particularly
adapted to support a pipe (e.g., an exhaust conduit) or a
cable.
293, Vehicle Fenders, subclass 113 for a vehicle fender of
the buffer or bumper type having an opening therein which may
be for the purpose of providing a passage for the products of
combustion (or a conduit carrying them) discharged from the
motor.
Subclass:
297
Having motor shaft parallel to rotational axis of driven
wheel:
This subclass is indented under subclass 291. Vehicle wherein
the component of the motor which delivers the power developed
therein (e.g., the crank-shaft) lies on a line which is
parallel to a line about which one or more driven wheels
rotate in order to propel the vehicle.
(1) Note. In the event that the vehicle has motors of both
a prime mover type and a traction kind, the shaft with which
this subclass is concerned is that of the traction motor.
Subclass:
298
Including means enabling repositioning of motor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 291. Vehicle
provided with means for moving, or facilitating the movement
of, the motor either into a different attitude or location on
the body frame or from or to the body frame.
(1) Note. (1) Note of subclass 294 is equally applicable
here.
(2) Note. While the motor of this subclass (298) usually is
a torque-developing device from which power is transmitted
mechanically to a driven wheel of the vehicle, a small
portion of the art relates to a repositionable prime mover of
the kind which contains (i.e., a battery) or which develops
(i.e., a motor-generator) electrical energy which is utilized
to drive a disclosed electric traction motor. On the other
hand, subclasses 65.1+, which was not included in the
reclassification project which established this subclass
(298) but which is known to include motor-generator prime
movers, may contain a more significant portion of the art
pertaining to repositionable prime movers.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
232 as explained in the reference thereto appearing in
subclass 294 above.
294 for a motor vehicle provided with means enabling the
repositioning of the vehicle's motor and a change-speed
gearing or a clutch which is mounted in common with the
motor.
Subclass:
299
Including auxiliary frame for motor and resilient means for
connecting auxiliary frame to body frame:
This subclass is indented under subclass 291. Vehicle
provided with an additional frame (e.g., a subframe) for
supporting the motor and with one or more cushioning devices
(e.g., a spring, a shock absorber, elastomeric material,
etc.) for joining the additional frame to the body frame.
Subclass:
300
Including means of nonsupporting nature for minimizing
operation-induced movement of motor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 291. Vehicle having
means for reducing or restraining that movement of the motor
which is occasioned by forces (e.g., torque, vibration, etc.)
developed consequent to the operation of the motor, and
wherein the means provides no appreciable support of the
motor against gravity.
(1) Note. Frequently the means is a laterally extending
brace which has a cushioning or snubbing capability.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
188, Brakes, subclasses 266+ for a vibration dampener of
the internal-resistance, motion-retarder type.
248, Supports, subclass 638 for a machinery support which
includes vibration damping or absorbing means.
Subclass:
301
Including traction motor of turbine type driven by fluid
product of combustion:
This subclass is indented under subclass 54.1. Vehicle
wherein the apparatus for producing power includes a motor of
the kind having a blade-carrying shaft, which shaft is caused
to rotate by the reaction on its blades of a moving gas
generated by the burning of fuel, for imparting
vehicle-propelling movement to one or more surface-engaging
members of the vehicle.
(1) Note. The source of the moving gas may or may not be
claimed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 291+ for a motor vehicle wherein the motor and
the body frame are particularly related to one another.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
60, Power Plants, subclass 39.01 for a power plant which
utilizes a motive fluid comprised, at least in part, of gases
produced by combustion, and see particularly those indented
subclasses which relate to power plants of the turbine type.
Subclass:
302
Including traction motor of kind driven by expansible fluid
from source external of motor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 54.1. Vehicle
wherein the apparatus for producing power includes a motor of
a type operated by a fluid, which is undergoing an increase
in volume as the result of having been subjected to an
elevation of its pressure or temperature at a location
outside the motor, for imparting vehicle-propelling movement
to one or more surface-engaging members of the vehicle.
(1) Note. The source of the expansible gas may or may not
be claimed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 291+ as explained in subclass 301 above.
Subclass:
303
Gas is product of treatment of a volatile fluid (e.g., gas is
steam):
This subclass is indented under subclass 302. Vehicle wherein
the expansible gas is obtained by subjecting one of a
particular class of fluids, while in a liquid state (e.g.,
water), to a change in pressure and/or temperature, thereby
causing the liquid to vaporize.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 36+ for a vehicle propelled by a motor driven by
steam, but wherein the vehicle is primarily a pulling device
rather than a load-transporting means.
310 for a vehicle having means to generate steam for a
propulsion purpose, but lacking the motor of this subclass
(303).
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
60, Power Plants, subclass 668 for a power plant comprising
means to increase the energy of a motive fluid by the
indirect addition of heat thereto plus a motor actuated by
the fluid, and wherein is further included means dependent
upon vehicle motion, vehicle traction, or vehicle body
structure, provided that no other locus exists for such a
plurality of means.
91, Motors: Expansible Chamber Type, appropriate subclasses
for a steam motor adapted for use with a vehicle.
122, Liquid Heaters and Vaporizers, subclass 3 for a boiler
plant adapted for use with a vehicle.
Subclass:
304
With means to condense gas discharged from motor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 303. Vehicle having
means to receive the gas which has operated the motor and
exited therefrom and to change the gas into a liquid.
(1) Note. This subclass provides for a closed-cycle system
in which the fluid, or at least a portion of it, is
continuously reused.
Subclass:
305
Including traction motor of kind driven by noncompressible
fluid received under pressure from a pump:
This subclass is indented under subclass 54.1. Vehicle
wherein the apparatus for producing power includes at least
one motor of a type operated by a fluid which is not
appreciably reducible in volume (e.g., a liquid), and which
is supplied to the motor in a pressurized state by a pump,
for imparting vehicle-propelling movement to one or more
surface-engaging members of the vehicle.
(1) Note. The pump may or may not be claimed.
(2) Note. The pump is intended to be driven by the power
plant (e.g., an internal combustion engine) of the vehicle
which power plant frequently is not claimed.
(3) Note. The pump and motor of this subclass may
constitute components of a device designated as a
"hydro-static transmission".
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 242+ for a motor vehicle having four wheels
driven and wherein the means for driving one or more of the
wheels may be a fluid motor.
subclasses 291+ as explained in subclass 301 above.
367 for other types of fluid drives combined with motor
vehicles structure.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
60, Power Plants, subclasses 325+ for a power plant
consisting of a source of fluid under pressure and a motor
driven by the fluid.
Subclass:
306
Vehicle includes another system operated by same fluid:
This subclass is indented under subclass 305. Vehicle having
at least one other system (e.g., braking, steering), not a
part of the traction-producing system, which also is driven
by the pressurized fluid.
Subclass:
307
Having variable displacement type motor or pump:
This subclass is indented under subclass 305. Vehicle wherein
either the traction motor, or the pump which supplied the
fluid under pressure to the motor, is of a kind capable of
changing its power output by virtue of having internal
components which are adjustable to vary its volumetric
capacity for handling fluid.
(1) Note. Included herein is art directed to means for
controlling the operation of the power plant of the vehicle
in a manner responsive to the operation of another means for
regulating the output of a variable displacement pump.
Subclass:
308
Having separate motor for each driven, surface-engaging
member:
This subclass is indented under subclass 305. Vehicle wherein
each driven wheel, track, or other traction-developing member
is provided with an individual motor of the noncompressible
fluid type for operating it.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
6.48 for a motor vehicle having means to cause, for the
purpose of guiding the vehicle, a relative difference in the
rate of travel of a traction element on one side of the
vehicle and that of a traction element on the other side of
the vehicle, and wherein the means comprises an individually
controlled motor for each traction element.
24.07 for a motor vehicle having a wheel arrangement
comprising five or more wheels and wherein the means for
propelling the vehicle comprises either a plurality of prime
movers or a plurality of energy conversion devices and
further wherein each driven wheel is operated by an
individual one of the prime movers or energy conversion
devices.
subclasses 242+ as explained in subclass 305 above, and
with the observation that the fluid motor which may appear
there (subclasses 242+) is frequently one which drives a
specific wheel.
Subclass:
309
With means for handling motor exhaust:
This subclass is indented under subclass 54.1. Vehicle
provided with means for receiving, conducting, or otherwise
handling the products of combustion discharged from its
motor.
(1) Note. The means may be one or more elements of which
the following are exemplary: exhaust manifold, exhaust pipe,
catalytic converter, muffler, tail pipe.
(2) Note. This subclass was established during the
reclassification of former subclass 64 and the art placed
herein at the time comprises a collection which should not be
considered to be completed insofar as the remainder of the
class is concerned.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
296 for a motor vehicle wherein the motor and the body frame
are particularly related to one another and wherein is
provided means, attached to or otherwise located with respect
to the body frame or the motor, for handling the exhaust of
the motor.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
60, Power Plants, subclasses 272+ as explained in the
reference thereto appearing in subclass 296 above.
181, Acoustics, subclasses 212+ as explained in the
reference thereto appearing in subclass 296 above.
248, Supports, subclasses 49+ as explained in the reference
thereto appearing in subclass 296.1 above.
293, Vehicle Fenders, subclass 113 as explained in the
reference thereto appearing in subclass 296 above.
Subclass:
310
With means to generate steam for a propulsion purpose:
This subclass is indented under subclass 54.1. Vehicle
provided with a boiler or other means for producing steam,
which steam is intended for a purpose related to the
propelling of the vehicle (i.e., the steam is for the
operation of an unclaimed motor).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 36+ for a motor vehicle propelled by a motor
driven by steam, but wherein the vehicle is primarily a
pulling device rather than a vehicle of general utility;
also, as pointed out in (1) Note of subclass 36, it is
sufficient for classification there if only the steam
traction engine vehicle and its boiler are claimed.
subclasses 303+ for the vehicle and generating means of
this subclass (310) plus the motor for utilizing the steam to
propel the vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
280, Land Vehicles, subclasses 830+ for a vehicle provided
with a tank, which tank may be for the purpose of holding
water which is intended to be used for the generation of
steam.
Subclass:
311
FRAME:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter comprising a frame for a vehicle, which frame includes
a feature peculiar to a vehicle of the motor-propelled type.
(1) Note. This subclass is an outgrowth of the
reclassification of selected portions (e.g., former subclass
64) of this class; accordingly, it does not purport to be a
complete collection of all the art of this nature which may
be present in the class. As a matter of fact, subclasses
such as 55-63 and 89.1+, which were not a part of the
reclassification project, may be particularly likely to
include frame structure which would be pertinent to this area
(subclasses 311+).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
55 through 63 and 89.1+, as explained in (1) Note above.
subclasses 291+ for a motor vehicle wherein the motor and
the body frame are particularly related to one another.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
280, Land Vehicles, subclasses 781+ for a general utility
wheeled land vehicle running gear including specific frame
construction.
296, Land Vehicles: Bodies and Tops, subclass 203.01 for a
body for a land vehicle, which body is provided with a frame
for supporting or rigidifying it.
Subclass:
312
With structure adapted to receive or support a motor,
change-speed gearing, or other power train element:
This subclass is indented under subclass 311. Frame provided
with an auxiliary frame, a platform, a bracket, or other
structure of such a nature either for holding a motor for
propelling a vehicle, for holding gearing for changing a
vehicle's velocity, or reversing its direction of movement,
or for holding an element of the kind involved in developing
power for, or transmitting power to, a traction-producing
member of a vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 291+ as explained in subclass 311 above, and see
especially subclass 299 thereof.
subclasses 374+ and 377+, for a transmission-frame
relationship and transmission support respectively, where the
transmission is positively claimed.
Subclass:
313
MISCELLANEOUS:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus not otherwise provided for.
Subclass:
314
WITH PLURAL FUEL TANKS:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus wherein the vehicle is provided with two or more
containers for holding energizing fluid for powering the
vehicle.
Subclass:
315
MANUALLY ACTUATED CONTROLLING DEVICES:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Devices
having means for manually controlling the motor or driving
mechanism in connection with specific vehicle structure.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
90 for dashboards with controlling instruments arranged
thereon.
173 for locks or sealing means for speed-controlling means.
714 for vehicle control actuated by a fender or buffer.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, subclasses 469+ for
controlling devices of general application.
123, Internal Combustion Engines, subclass 185.1 for manual
starting mechanisms operable from the seat.
192, Clutches and Power-Stop Control, appropriate subclasses
for brakes designed to be actuated in connection with a motor
or clutch, so that the motor is stopped or the clutch
disengaged when the brake is applied.
244, Aeronautics, subclass 75 and the classes specified in
the notes thereto for apparatus and devices for controlling
aircraft and other mobile craft. See subclass 175 and the
classes specified in the notes thereto where the control is
effected by electrical means, and for a statement as to the
line between the classes.
Subclass:
316
By other than hand or foot of operator:
This subclass is indented under subclass 315. Apparatus
wherein a controlling device is actuated by a body portion of
an operator, and the body portion normally not being utilized
in the control of a vehicle (e.g, knee, head, hip, etc.).
Subclass:
317
On mine car vehicle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 315. Apparatus in
which the vehicle comprises structure designed for operation
in a subterranean passage.
Subclass:
318
On delivery-type vehicle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 315. Apparatus
wherein the vehicle comprises structure for facile on-off
movement by an operator or other person of a vehicle designed
for frequent pickup and delivery stops.
Subclass:
319
With rein means:
This subclass is indented under subclass 315. Apparatus
wherein a manually manipulatable flexible means is connected
to a movable vehicle control part to at least partly control
operation of the vehicle.
(1) Note. A flexible member interconnecting rigid link
members, one of which being manually manipulable, in a
vehicle control mechanism is not considered proper for
classification here. Classification will be based on other
features.
Subclass:
320
With vehicle control extension:
This subclass is indented under subclass 315. Apparatus
wherein an additional manual means normally comprising
extendable parts is secured to the vehicle (e.g., tractor)
steering wheel and/or other manually controlled part normally
used to control the vehicle, movement of the additional
manual means enabling control of the vehicle from a remote
position.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
319 for similar devices using rein means.
Subclass:
321
With plural control stations:
This subclass is indented under subclass 315. Apparatus
wherein the vehicle comprises two or more operator locations,
the vehicle drive being controlled from at least one of the
locations.
(1) Note. One of the locations may be used solely for
controlling a work apparatus.
(2) Note. One of the locations may provide a separate
control for braking (only) the vehicle for use by a passenger
or other rider.
(3) Note. Included herein are dual control stations.
Subclass:
322
Side-by-side:
This subclass is indented under subclass 321. Apparatus
wherein the locations are positioned alongside one another.
Subclass:
323
For single control means:
This subclass is indented under subclass 321. Apparatus
wherein the same control apparatus is accessible for
operation from a plurality of operator locations.
Subclass:
324
With tool or equipment control:
This subclass is indented under subclass 321. Apparatus
wherein at least one of the operator locations comprises
means to control equipment or work apparatus on the vehicle.
Subclass:
325
Braking controllable by passenger:
This subclass is indented under subclass 321. Apparatus
comprising means readily accessible to a vehicle rider to
retard vehicle motion, the rider being someone other than the
vehicle operator.
Subclass:
326
With movable control station or seat position:
This subclass is indented under subclass 315. Apparatus
having a control location which may have seat means for an
operator from which the controlling means may be actuated,
and wherein the control location or the seat may be moved
from one position to another to enable the operator to
control the vehicle and/or work apparatus thereon.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
334 for a control means adjustable merely for the
convenience and at the will of a vehicle operator.
Subclass:
327
Movable cab:
This subclass is indented under subclass 326. Apparatus
wherein an operator's location comprises a vehicle
compartment or enclosure for housing the vehicle operator,
the compartment or enclosure being shiftable to other
positions or attitudes on the vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
89.13 for similar subject matter wherein vehicle control
means are not claimed, and see the search note thereunder.
Subclass:
328
Tilting:
This subclass is indented under subclass 327. Apparatus
wherein the compartment or enclosure is pivotally attached to
the frame of the vehicle whereby it is shiftable between
alternate attitudes or positions.
Subclass:
329
Simultaneously movable seat and control:
This subclass is indented under subclass 326. Apparatus
wherein an operator seat or location and at least one control
means are mounted for concurrent movement to an alternate
position.
Subclass:
330
Seat or seat portion movable to alternate position:
This subclass is indented under subclass 326. Apparatus
wherein the seat or seat portion is movable to permit the
operator to face another direction either to control the
vehicle or to control work apparatus or equipment thereon.
Subclass:
331
With tool or equipment control:
This subclass is indented under subclass 330. Apparatus
wherein a control means for vehicle-mounted work apparatus or
equipment is accessible for operation by the operator at one
position of seat or seat portion adjustment.
Subclass:
332
With tiller-type handle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 315. Apparatus
comprising an arm or lever means connected at or adjacent one
of its ends to at least one vehicle control entity and
engageable at or adjacent its other end by the operator of
the vehicle for the movement to control at least one vehicle
control entity (e.g., steering, braking, etc.).
Subclass:
333
Multiple vehicle functions controllable by single device:
This subclass is indented under subclass 315. Apparatus
comprising a member movable to control operation of a
vehicle, the member being capable of controlling a plurality
of distinct functional control entities (e.g., steering,
braking, etc.).
Subclass:
334
With adjustable operator engageable control:
This subclass is indented under subclass 315. Apparatus
wherein the position of a control member engageable by an
operator to control the vehicle may be selectively moved to
an alternate working position at a control station at the
will of and for the convenience of the vehicle operator.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 326+ for either a control station or seat
movable to at least one other position from which the vehicle
and/or tool or equipment thereon may be controlled.
Subclass:
335
With fuel or air throttle control:
This subclass is indented under subclass 315. Apparatus
comprising means actuated by a vehicle operator for
regulating the amount of fuel and/or air deliverable to the
cylinders of a vehicle motor.
Subclass:
336
With transmission control:
This subclass is indented under subclass 315. Apparatus
comprising means actuated by a vehicle operator for
regulating change speed mechanism positioned intermediate the
vehicle motor and drive shafting.
Subclass:
337
TRANSMISSION MECHANISM:
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Mechanism connecting the power shaft to the road wheels and
claimed in combination with specific vehicle structure.
(1) Note. Classes 56, Harvesters; 111, Planting; and 172,
Earth Working, subclasses 105+, contain some agricultural
vehicles carrying transmission mechanism connecting road
wheels to a mechanism to be driven, e.g., in Class 56,
Harvesters, are found vehicles carrying cutting mechanism
actuated by the road wheels.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
6.2 21+, 36+, 53.1+, 233+, and 252+, for transmission
mechanism of a nature peculiar to the motor vehicles of those
subclasses.
53.1 for transmission combinations with power take-offs,
especially 53.2, for creeper drives.
165 for a transmission in combination with a mechanical or
fluid accumulator.
subclasses 200+ for a motor vehicle provided with powered
ground engaging means for producing or assisting in the
production of lateral movement of the vehicle, (e.g., for
parking), and wherein the means comprises a rotatably driven
auxiliary wheel or endless track, the drive train for which
wheel or track may include the vehicle's transmission.
269 for a motor vehicle having a belt or harness for
restraining an occupant and means whereby the belt or harness
controls, or is controlled by, the functioning of the
vehicle's transmission.
subclasses 305+ for a motor vehicle which includes a
traction motor of the kind driven by a noncompressible fluid
which has been placed under pressure by a pump, sometimes
referred to as a hydrostatic transmission.
332 333 and 336, for manually actuated vehicle transmission
controls.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
56, Harvesters, (See (1) Note).
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, appropriate subclasses,
which contain transmission mechanism designed for motor
vehicles, but not claimed in connection with specific vehicle
structure. For a more detailed statement of this line see
(1) Note (b) under the class definition.
105, Railway Rolling Stock, appropriate subclasses, for
vehicles of that class having transmission mechanism; and see
particularly subclasses 96+ for such a vehicle having drive
mechanism for a wheel or axle.
111, Planting, (see (1) Note).
172, Earth Working, subclasses 35+ for a driven earth
working tool, and subclass 292 for an earth working apparatus
with some specific propelling means.
280, Land Vehicles, subclasses 200+ for general utility
occupant propelled-type wheeled land vehicles. In accordance
with the (2) Note in Class 280, subclass 200, motorcycle
frames and running gear, without features causing
classification in Class 180, Motor Vehicles, are included in
these subclasses.
474, Endless Belt Power Transmission Systems or Components,
for belt and chain transmissions not claimed in combination
with specific vehicle structure.
475, Planetary Gear Transmission Systems or Components, for
planetary gear transmission mechanism. The line is the same
as with Class 74.
477, Interrelated Power Delivery Controls, Including Engine
Control, for interrelated engine and transmission control.
Subclass:
338
Condition responsive, (e.g., responsive to speed, load,
etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 337. Subject matter
including means which controls or adjusts the transmission in
response to a sensed condition or change of condition.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
14.6 for a transmission which may be controlled by the
resistance to movement exerted by a trailer.
Subclass:
339
With temperature control, lubrication or sealing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 337. Subject matter
including (a), heating or cooling of the transmission
mechanism; (b), means to facilitate the admission of
lubricant to the transmission mechanism or (c), means to
contain such lubricant or deflect undesirable fluids or
solids.
(1) Note. Brake cooling is not found here but in subclass
370.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
184, Lubrication, for lubricating means, per se.
277, Seal for a Joint or Juncture, for a generic sealing
means or process, subclasses 500+ for a dynamic
circumferential contact seal for other than a piston.
Subclass:
340
With laterally movable wheel:
This subclass is indented under subclass 337. Subject matter
including means to move the power driven road wheel(s) toward
or away from the longitudinal axis of the vehicle so that the
width of the vehicle's track may be varied.
Subclass:
341
Wheel drives parallel wheel:
This subclass is indented under subclass 337. Subject matter
provided with a drive means, not part of the normal road
wheel drive transmission, through which one wheel driven by
the road wheel drive transmission may drive a parallel
wheel.
(1) Note. The effect is the same as locking up the
differential between two parallel wheels.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
24.12 for driven wheels that may also drive through idlers
to a set of tandem wheels.
Subclass:
342
Tire directly driven:
This subclass is indented under subclass 337. Subject matter
wherein the transmission includes a gear in engagement with
the ground contact surface of a traction wheel.
(1) Note. The gear may be of the belt or chain type.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
14.7 24.11+, 198, and 201, for vehicles of the type there
provided for which drive a ground wheel by contact.
subclasses 221+ for a motor vehicle comprising two wheels
in tandem, one of which is powered by a rotating element in
frictional engagement therewith.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
476, Friction Gear Transmission Systems or Components, for
friction gear transmissions.
Subclass:
343
With particular gear structure:
This subclass is indented under subclass 342. Subject matter
including the configuration of the gear or the material of
which it is made.
Subclass:
344
Assembly feature:
This subclass is indented under subclass 337. Subject matter
including structure facilitating the taking apart or bringing
together of the transmission or the parts thereof and the
vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
301, Land Vehicles: Wheels and Axles, subclass 9.1 for a
vehicle wheel of detachable sections.
Subclass:
345
Traction aid:
This subclass is indented under subclass 337. Subject matter
including particular structure disclosed as equalizing the
normal forces acting between two parallel drive road wheels
and the road.
(1) Note. The inequality in traction which is here
compensated for is normally caused by the torque of the drive
transmission.
Subclass:
346
With protective guard or casing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 337. Subject matter
including a protective shield or covering designed to protect
the transmission or to protect an object or person adjacent
the transmission.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
380 for propeller shaft casings.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, subclasses 606+ and 608+
for gear housings and guards not in combination with specific
vehicle structure.
474, Endless Belt Power Transmission Systems or Components,
subclasses 144+ for chain or belt drives having guards or
housings.
Subclass:
347
Mechanical movement transmission:
This subclass is indented under subclass 337. Subject matter
wherein the transmission includes a device, other than
gearing, for imparting motion to one body from the motion of
another body, the two motions, or some intermediate motion,
being of different form, type or degree.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, appropriate subclasses for
mechanical movements, per se.
Subclass:
348
Final drive axle movable:
This subclass is indented under subclass 337. Subject matter
wherein the power driven road wheel is supported such that
its axis is movable relative to the vehicle body or frame.
(1) Note. The axle moves against the pressure of the
springs or oscillates relative to the body under the
influence of inequalities in the road.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
40 for steam traction engines of this type.
227 for a resiliently mounted driven wheel in a tandem
wheeled vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
301, Land Vehicles: Wheels and Axles, subclass 133 and 136
for spring mountings of wheels on axle ends.
Subclass:
349
Rigid axle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 348. Subject matter
wherein two parallel drive wheels or drive wheel axles are
mounted on a common support, which support is movable
relative to the vehicle body or frame.
Subclass:
350
Belt or chain drive:
This subclass is indented under subclass 349. Subject matter
wherein the transmission includes a flexible endless member
entrained between a pair of pulleys or sprockets.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
9.64 217, 231, 239, 241, and 251, for belt or chain
transmissions combined with the particular vehicles provided
for therein.
357 366 and 373, for other belt or chain drive combinations.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
474, Endless Belt Power Transmission Systems or Components,
appropriate subclasses for belt or chain drives, per se.
Subclass:
351
With tensioning means:
This subclass is indented under subclass 350. Subject matter
including means to regulate the stress in the belt or chain.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
231 for belt tensioning means used with vehicles having only
two wheels in tandem.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
474, Endless Belt Power Transmission Systems or Components,
subclasses 101+ for belt tensioning, per se.
Subclass:
352
With lateral support between the differential or axle housing
and the vehicle frame:
This subclass is indented under subclass 349. Subject matter
wherein significance is attributed to the structure linking
the casing which surrounds the differential or live axle with
the vehicle frame to prevent transverse movement of the
driving road wheels with respect to the longitudinal axis of
the vehicle.
Subclass:
353
With sprung differential:
This subclass is indented under subclass 349. Subject matter
wherein the gearing which compensates for varying speeds of
the drive wheels is supported directly by the vehicle frame
and thus constitutes part of the weight which is supported by
the spring suspension of the vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
359 for a sprung differential used with an independent
suspension.
Subclass:
354
And differential support feature:
This subclass is indented under subclass 353. Subject matter
wherein significance is attributed to the structure
connecting the differential to the vehicle frame.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
360 and 378+, for other differential supports.
Subclass:
355
And final gear drive:
This subclass is indented under subclass 353. Subject matter
wherein a gear transmission extends between the differential
and the vehicle road wheels.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 350+ and 357, for final gear drives of the belt
or chain type.
356 361, 363, and 371+, for other final gear drive
combinations.
Subclass:
356
And final gear drive:
This subclass is indented under subclass 349. Subject matter
wherein a separate gear transmission extends to each of two
road wheels and, where a differential is disclosed, is beyond
such differential in the path of power flow.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
350 and 357, for final gear drives of the belt or chain
type.
355 361, 363, and 371+, for other final gear drive
combinations.
Subclass:
357
Belt or chain drive:
This subclass is indented under subclass 348. Subject matter
wherein the transmission includes a flexible endless member
entrained between a pair of pulleys or sprockets.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
9.64 217, 231, 239, 241, and 251, for belt or chain
transmissions combined with the particular vehicles provided
for therein.
350 366 and 373, for other belt or chain drive combinations.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
474, Endless Belt Power Transmission Systems or Components,
appropriate subclasses for belt or chain drives, per se.
Subclass:
358
Swinging axle, single pivot:
This subclass is indented under subclass 348. Subject matter
wherein separate drive wheel supporting axles are supported
for swinging movement in a vertical plane transverse to the
longitudinal axis of the vehicle about a common fulcrum.
Subclass:
359
With sprung differential:
This subclass is indented under subclass 348. Subject matter
wherein the gearing which compensates for varying speeds of
the drive wheels is supported directly by the vehicle frame
and thus constitutes part of the weight which is supported by
the spring suspension of the vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
353 for a sprung differential together with a movable rigid
axle.
Subclass:
360
And differential support feature:
This subclass is indented under subclass 359. Subject matter
wherein significance is attributed to the structure
connecting the differential to the vehicle frame.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
354 and 378+, for other differential supports.
Subclass:
361
And final gear drive:
This subclass is indented under subclass 359. Subject matter
wherein a gear transmission extends between the differential
and the vehicle road wheels.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 350+ and 357, for final gear drives of the belt
or chain type.
355 356, 363, and 371+, for other final gear drive
combinations.
Subclass:
362
With transverse leaf spring suspension:
This subclass is indented under subclass 359. Subject matter
wherein the vehicle suspension includes a spring made up of
one or more flat, elongated flexible elements which extend in
a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis of the
vehicle.
Subclass:
363
And final gear drive:
This subclass is indented under subclass 348. Subject matter
wherein a separate gear transmission extends to each of two
road wheels and, where a differential is disclosed, is beyond
such differential in the path of power flow.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 350+ and 357, for final gear drives of the belt
or chain type.
355 356, 361, and 371+, for other final gear drive
combinations.
Subclass:
364
Variable speed or direction:
This subclass is indented under subclass 337. Subject matter
wherein the transmission includes a gear arrangement which
may be controlled to (a) change the number or fractional
number of revolutions made by an output load driving member
for each revolution made by an input member or (b) change the
direction of rotation of an output load driving member.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
65.7 for change speed gearing in combination with an
electric motor drive.
230 for a change speed means utilized with a vehicle having
only two wheels arranged in tandem.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, subclasses 325+ for
interchangeably locked change speed transmissions, per se.
475, Planetary Gear Transmission Systems or Components,
subclasses 198+ for a charge speed transmission in series
with a differential.
Subclass:
365
Plural:
This subclass is indented under subclass 364. Subject matter
wherein more than one speed varying or direction changing
transmission is provided in the power path(s) to the road
wheels.
(1) Note. The two or more transmissions may be in series or
in parallel.
(2) Note. A change speed or direction transmission that is
duplicated at each of two drive wheels is not found in this
subclass but in one of the "final drive" subclasses or in the
subclass providing for the particular transmission.
(3) Note. Fluid drives not of the hydrostatic type combined
with an additional change speed or direction transmission
have been placed in subclass 367.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 305+ for plural transmissions one of which is of
the hydrostatic type.
367 see (3) Note above.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, subclass 745 for plural
transmissions which may be used in vehicle combinations.
475, Planetary Gear Transmission Systems or Components,
subclasses 207+ for; a nonplanetary transmission combined
with a planetary transmission.
Subclass:
366
Belt or chain:
This subclass is indented under subclass 364. Subject matter
wherein the change speed or direction transmission includes a
flexible endless member entrained between a pair of pulleys
or sprockets.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
474, Endless Belt Power Transmission Systems or Components,
appropriate subclasses for belt or chain drives, per se.
Subclass:
367
Fluid drive:
This subclass is indented under subclass 364. Subject matter
wherein the connection between the power shaft and road
wheels includes the transmission of torque through a fluid
medium.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
301 for a turbine motor driven by the fluid product of
combustion.
subclasses 305+ for a pump and motor drive of the
hydrostatic type.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
60, Power Plants, subclasses 330+ for coaxial impeller and
turbine units, per se.
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, subclass 718, 720 and
730.1+ for combinations of fluid drives and gearing.
192, Clutches and Power-Stop Control, subclass 21.5 and
58.1+ for fluid drives of the clutch type.
475, Planetary Gear Transmission Systems or Components,
subclasses 31+, for a fluid drive in a planetary
transmission.
Subclass:
368
Friction drive:
This subclass is indented under subclass 364. Subject matter
wherein the transmission includes gearing of the toothless
type.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
475, Planetary Gear Transmission Systems or Components,
subclasses 183+, for friction planetary gearing.
476, Friction Gear Transmission Systems or Components, for
friction gear transmissions.
Subclass:
369
Planetary:
This subclass is indented under subclass 364. Subject matter
wherein the transmission includes first and second engaging
gears each having a central axis and wherein, during at least
one mode of operation, the axis of one of the gears follows a
path extending around the axis of the other of the gears.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, appropriate subclasses for
planetary transmissions, per se.
475, Planetary Gear Transmission Systems or Components, for
planetary transmissions, per se.
Subclass:
370
With brake:
This subclass is indented under subclass 337. Subject matter
wherein significance is attributed to the means for stopping
the road wheel.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
6.2 for brakes used for steering by driving purposes.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
188, Brakes, for brakes, per se.
192, Clutches and Power-Stop Control, subclasses 215+ for
the combination of transmission control and brake.
Subclass:
371
Final gear drive at each of two parallel wheels:
This subclass is indented under subclass 337. Subject matter
wherein a separate gear transmission extends to each of two
road wheels and, where a differential is disclosed, is beyond
such differential in the path of power flow.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
342 for final drive gears which engage the traction surface
of the ground wheels.
355 356, 361, and 363, for other final gear drive
combinations.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
475, Planetary Gear Transmission Systems or Components,
subclasses 198+ for a variable speed or direction
transmission combined with a differential.
Subclass:
372
Planetary:
This subclass is indented under subclass 371. Subject matter
wherein each separate gear transmission includes first and
second engaging gears each having a central axis and wherein,
during at least one mode of operation, the axis of one of the
gears follows a path extending around the axis of the other
of the gears.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
369 for variable speed or direction planetary gearing
associated with a vehicle wheel.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
475, Planetary Gear Transmission Systems, or Components, for
planetary transmissions, per se.
Subclass:
373
Belt or chain:
This subclass is indented under subclass 371. Subject matter
wherein each separate gear transmission includes a flexible
endless member entrained between a pair of pulleys or
sprockets.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 350+ and 357, for belt or chain final drives
used with movable drive axles and see the search notes
thereunder.
Subclass:
374
Gear transmission relationship to frame or axle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 337. Subject matter
wherein significance is attributed to the spatial
relationship between the vehicle gear transmission and the
vehicle frame or axle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 292+ for a specific relationship between the
motor, transmission and vehicle frame.
Subclass:
375
Transmission is differential:
This subclass is indented under subclass 374. Subject matter
wherein the gear transmission is the differential.
Subclass:
376
Shaft relationship to frame or shaft:
This subclass is indented under subclass 337. Subject matter
wherein significance is attributed to the spatial
relationship between (a) a transmission shaft and the vehicle
frame or (b) the various shafts of the transmission.
Subclass:
377
Transmission support:
This subclass is indented under subclass 337. Subject matter
wherein significance is attributed to the structure that
sustains the transmission against the force of gravity.
(1) Note. To be placed here both the transmission and
vehicle structure must be positively claimed. In the absence
of a claimed transmission patents should be placed in Class
180 subclass 312.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
312 see (1) Note above.
Subclass:
378
Differential or axle housing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 377. Subject matter
wherein the transmission supported is the differential or
axle housing.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
354 and 360, for differential supports in combination with
movable drive axles.
Subclass:
379
Shaft:
This subclass is indented under subclass 377. Subject matter
wherein the transmission supported is a shaft.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
384, Bearings, appropriate subclasses for bearing supports
and shaft hangers.
Subclass:
380
With propeller shaft casing, (e.g., torque tube):
This subclass is indented under subclass 379. Subject matter
wherein the support includes an elongated housing that
surrounds the vehicle drive shaft.
(1) Note. For purposes of this subclass "propeller shaft",
(drive shaft), normally refers to the shaft extending
lengthwise of the vehicle between the main gear transmission
output and the differential, but could also refer to the
shaft between the engine and the main gear transmission input
where the transmission is located adjacent the differential.
Subclass:
381
Vibration damping:
This subclass is indented under subclass 379. Subject matter
wherein the support includes means, usually flexible, to
suppress the transmission of force between the shaft and
structure from which the shaft is supported.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
380 for the combination of vibration damping and propeller
shaft casing.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
384, Bearings, appropriate subclasses for resilient bearing
supports.
464, Rotary Shafts, Gudgeons, Housings, and Flexible
Couplings for Rotary Shafts, subclass 180 for shafting, per
se, having vibration dampening structure.
Subclass:
382
Flexible support:
This subclass is indented under subclass 377. Subject matter
wherein the support is characterized by its resilience.
Subclass:
383
With particular drive coupling:
This subclass is indented under subclass 337. Subject matter
wherein the transmission includes a specifically claimed
torque transmitting connection.
(1) Note. The connection may take the form of a joint or
coupling as in Classes 403 and 464 or a clutch as in Class
192.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
76 for miscellaneous devices that allow one driven road
wheel to rotate faster than a parallel road wheel.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
74, Machine Element or Mechanism, subclass 650 for
nonplanetary devices which may be used to allow differential
rotation of parallel vehicle wheels.
192, Clutches and Power-Stop Control, subclasses 49+ for
clutches which may allow differential rotation of parallel
vehicle wheels.
Subclass:
384
Relative axial movement:
This subclass is indented under subclass 383. Subject matter
wherein the torque transmitting connection accommodates
relative movement between the connected members along their
rotational axes.
Subclass:
385
Drive connection to wheel:
This subclass is indented under subclass 383. Subject matter
wherein the torque transmitting connection includes or is
adjacent to the vehicle wheel.
(1) Note. See subclass 384 for a drive connection to the
wheel which permits relative axial movement.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
192, Clutches and Power-Stop Control, subclasses 49+ for
clutches in a drive line to parallel vehicle wheels.
301, Land Vehicles: Wheels and Axles, appropriate subclasses
for wheels, axles and combinations thereof.
403, Joints and Connections, subclass 1 for disengageable
connections which may be to a wheel.
Subclass:
400
STEERING GEAR:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter comprising means for guiding vehicles involving motor
vehicle structure or otherwise limited to motor vehicles as
distinguished from drawn vehicles.
(1) Note. The titled phrase "STEERING GEAR" is defined to be
a total operating system for guiding a vehicle, and is not
meant to solely include or to be limited to the presence of a
mechanical element known as a gear.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
6.2 for a motor vehicle which is steered by creating a
difference between the driving effort developed by one or
more traction elements located on one side of the vehicle and
the driving effort developed by one or more traction elements
located on the other side thereof; and see especially
subclasses 6.24+ for the combination therewith of means
(e.g., steerable wheels) for manually steering such a
vehicle.
9.38 for a motor vehicle having a special driving device in
the nature of an endless, flexible track and having also a
ground-engaging wheel for assisting in propelling or
supporting the vehicle and further wherein the wheel is
adapted to be turned (i.e., pivoted) for steering the
vehicle.
9.44 for a motor vehicle having a special driving device in
the nature of an endless, flexible track and having also
means for steering the vehicle.
subclasses 12+ for a motor vehicle having a motor-carrying
attachment in the nature of a wheeled frame and wherein the
wheels of the frame are driven and steered.
subclasses 23+ for a motor vehicle having a wheel
arrangement comprising five or more wheels and wherein one or
more of the wheels are driven and steered; and in particular
subclass 24.01 for such a vehicle wherein one of the wheels
is positively moved by external means for a vehicle-guiding
purpose and another wheel longitudinally spaced from the one
wheel is either positively and simultaneously moved for a
steering purpose or is mounted to move incident to a turning
movement of the vehicle.
subclasses 37+ for a motor vehicle of the steam traction
type having steering wheels which are driven.
subclasses 167+ for a motor vehicle having means for
controlling its operation responsive to either
electromagnetic radiation, magnetic force, or sound waves
received from a source, or reflected from an object or a
surface, located from the vehicle.
subclasses 204+ for a motor vehicle having a device for
programmably operating the vehicle's steerable wheels.
subclasses 211+ for a motor vehicle having a wheel
arrangement comprising three wheels and wherein at least one
of the wheels is driven and steered.
222 for a motor vehicle having a wheel arrangement
comprising two wheels in tandem relationship and wherein one
of the wheels is driven frictionally and further wherein
means is provided for steering that wheel.
subclasses 223+ for a motor vehicle having a wheel
arrangement comprising two wheels in tandem relationship and
wherein at least one of the wheels is driven and steered.
subclasses 234+ for a motor vehicle having four wheels
driven and provided with means for steering all of the driven
wheels.
subclasses 252+ for a motor vehicle having at least one
wheel which is both driven and steerable.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
280, Land Vehicles, subclasses 263+ for occupant propelled
vehicles including steering, and subclasses 771+ for other
land vehicles including occupant steering.
Subclass:
401
Steering by terrestrial guide:
This subclass is indented under subclass 400. Subject matter
comprising a land based steering datum for cooperating with a
datum sensing means on a vehicle wherein the datum sensing
means cooperates with control means for steering the
vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 167+ for a motor vehicle having means for
controlling its operation responsive to either
electromagnetic radiation, magnetic force, or sound waves
received from a source, or reflected from an object or
surface, located apart from the vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
104, Railways, subclass 244.1 for a derailment guard for a
railway vehicle, which guard includes a vehicle-mounted
feeler element which is adapted to contact an existing
channel or furrow in or on the ground and to guide the
vehicle in a course which corresponds to that of the channel
or furrow.
172, Earth Working, subclasses 23+, and particularly indented
subclass 26, for earth working apparatus provided with means
adapted to contact an elongate shoulder or a channel on or in
the ground for the purpose of guiding the apparatus.
280, Land Vehicles, subclass 87.2 for a land vehicle of the
wheeled type provided with means whereby one or more of its
wheels may be steered by an occupant and wherein the steering
means controls also a wheel which is offset from the
principal supporting wheel of the vehicle but which, by its
own turning (i.e., pivotable) movement, is able to effect
turning movement of certain of the principal wheels; and
subclass 776 for a wheeled vehicle of the occupant steered
type wherein bias means is provided for maintaining a
steerable wheel in engagement with an elongate, more or less
vertical surface (e.g., curb) for a vehicle-steering
purpose.
Subclass:
402
No mechanical connection between steering shaft and steering
gear:
This subclass is indented under subclass 400. Subject matter
wherein there is no mechanical linkage joining the steering
shaft and the steering gear.
Subclass:
403
Hydraulic:
This subclass is indented under subclass 402. Subject matter
wherein the steering shaft controls a fluid valve which
regulates the flow of a pressurized fluid to a steering
gear.
Subclass:
404
Power assist alarms or disablers:
This subclass is indented under subclass 400. Subject matter
comprising either a means for (a) stopping the operation of
the power assist in response to the malfunctioning thereof,
or (b) producing a humanly perceptible signal in response to
a predetermined condition of the power assist.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
400 for detectors and sensors for steering systems where a
control system is not being claimed.
subclasses 405+ for failure systems which further include a
backup power assist.
Subclass:
405
With alternate emergency power means (e.g., pump, gearing,
etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 400. Subject matter
provided with secondary or backup means to ensure the
steering of a vehicle with a mechanical advantage to the
vehicle operator upon failure of a part of a primary steering
means.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 271+ for a motor vehicle which is provided with
means for promoting the safety of the vehicle, or its
occupant or load, or an external object. (Inasmuch as this
subclass 133 was not within the scope of the classification
project which established subclass 271, principally from
former subclasses 82+, there is no assurance that this
subclass does not presently contain art which is within the
scope of subclass 271).
Subclass:
406
With fluid backup:
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Subject matter
wherein the secondary means is hydraulic.
Subclass:
407
With electrical backup:
This subclass is indented under subclass 405. Subject matter
wherein the secondary means is electrical.
Subclass:
408
Each wheel steerable:
This subclass is indented under subclass 400. Subject matter
wherein the vehicle comprises main and auxiliary wheels and
there is provided a means for steering each of the wheels of
the vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
280, Land Vehicles, subclass 91.1 for a nonmotor vehicle
including steering gear which controls four supporting
wheels.
Subclass:
409
Occupant steered:
This subclass is indented under subclass 408. Subject matter
wherein all of the power for steering the wheels of the
vehicle is provided by an occupant (i.e., no power assist).
Subclass:
410
With condition modulated steering:
This subclass is indented under subclass 409. Subject matter
wherein there is provided a means responsive to either (a)
the condition of operation of the vehicle or (b) a change
thereof in order to change the steering ratio between the
main and auxiliary wheels.
Subclass:
411
Independently controlled steerable wheels:
This subclass is indented under subclass 408. Subject matter
wherein each wheel can be independently steered or
controlled.
Subclass:
412
With electric power assist:
This subclass is indented under subclass 408. Subject matter
including means movable by an electric motor to provide power
to assist the steering of a wheel of the vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
445 for subject matter directed to an electric power assist
motor for steering the rear wheels of a motor vehicle
Subclass:
413
With electric power assist to all wheels:
This subclass is indented under subclass 412. Subject matter
wherein electric means provides the power assist for all of
the wheels of the vehicle.
Subclass:
414
With fluid power assist:
This subclass is indented under subclass 408. Subject matter
in which means movable by the application of pressure fluid
thereto is positively connected to each vehicle wheel.
Subclass:
415
With electrical control:
This subclass is indented under subclass 414. Subject matter
in which electrical energy is utilized for adjusting the flow
of pressurized fluid to the movable means.
Subclass:
416
With mechanical power assist:
This subclass is indented under subclass 408. Subject matter
in which there is provided motive means movable by the
application of mechanical power (obtained, for example, from
a power take-off mechanism) thereto to provide substantially
all of the force required for steering the wheels of the
vehicle.
Subclass:
417
With fluid power assist:
This subclass is indented under subclass 400. Subject matter
in which there is provided motive means movable by the
application of a pressurized fluid thereto to provide
substantially all of the force required for guiding the
vehicle, the initiating and/or remaining force being provided
by a vehicle operator in guiding the vehicle.
Subclass:
418
Between articulated wheeled vehicle sections:
This subclass is indented under subclass 417. Subject matter
wherein the vehicle comprises a plurality of relatively
movable wheeled parts, the motive means causing relative
movement between the vehicle parts for guiding the vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
235 for a motor vehicle having four wheels driven and
provided with means for steering all of the driven wheels and
wherein the means includes articulation of the frame of the
vehicle.
Subclass:
419
Combined with another steering mode:
This subclass is indented under subclass 418. Subject matter
wherein the vehicle includes a steering means in addition to
the means for steering by relative movement between the
wheeled vehicle parts for guiding the vehicle.
(1) Note. The plural steering means may be utilized singly
or together as desired to perform the steering operation.
Subclass:
420
Reciprocating power assist:
This subclass is indented under subclass 418. Subject matter
wherein the means movable by the application of pressurized
fluid comprises an expansible chamber motive means, the
relatively movable parts thereof being movable in a straight
line.
Subclass:
421
With condition modulated steering:
This subclass is indented under subclass 417. Subject matter
wherein there is provided a means responsive either to (a) a
condition of operation of the vehicle or (b) a change thereof
for continuously and proportionally controlling the flow of
pressure fluid to the motive means to compensate for the
influence of the condition or change thereof in the guidance
of the vehicle by the operator.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
404 for devices which sense a condition and disable or
indicate failure or malfunction of the power assist
Subclass:
422
With electrical control:
This subclass is indented under subclass 421. Subject matter
in which electrical energy is utilized for adjusting the flow
of pressure fluid to the movable means.
Subclass:
423
Vehicle speed condition only:
This subclass is indented under subclass 422. Subject matter
in which the condition of operation is the velocity only of
the vehicle for controlling the flow of pressure fluid to the
movable means.
Subclass:
424
With swinging axle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 417. Subject matter
in which the vehicle includes an elongate pivoted wheeled
supporting member having a width at least substantially the
width of the vehicle, the motive means moving the pivoted
supporting member about its pivot to guide the vehicle.
Subclass:
425
Including flexible power transmitting means:
This subclass is indented under subclass 417. Subject matter
in which there is provided an elongate chain or cable means
interconnecting the motive means with steerable wheel means
to guide the vehicle.
Subclass:
426
Steering column supported:
This subclass is indented under subclass 417. Subject matter
in which the motive means is either (a) attached to, (b)
integral with, or (c) otherwise supported by a steering
column of the vehicle.
Subclass:
427
Including rack gear means:
This subclass is indented under subclass 426. Subject matter
in which there is provided force transmitting means
comprising interengaging gear means one of which being an
elongate toothed barlike member of determinate length movable
in a reciprocating motion.
(1) Note. The barlike member may be a piston connecting rod
or may be a toothed side of a piston (working member).
Subclass:
428
With rack and pinion gearing intermediate steering shaft and
power assist:
This subclass is indented under subclass 417. Subject matter
in which there is provided interengaging gear means
interconnecting a vehicle steering shaft or an extension
thereof with either the motive means or a fluid control means
therefor for guiding the vehicle, one of the interengaging
gear means having the form of an elongate toothed bar.
Subclass:
429
Having rotary working member:
This subclass is indented under subclass 417. Subject matter
wherein the motive means comprises a working member moving
about an axis.
Subclass:
430
Having flexible working member:
This subclass is indented under subclass 417. Subject matter
wherein the motive means comprises a working member having a
pliable displaceable member comprising the movable wall of an
expansible chamber device.
Subclass:
431
Steering linkage includes interengaging gear means:
This subclass is indented under subclass 417. Subject matter
in which the motive means acts on force transmitting members
comprising relatively moving meshing toothed members for
moving a ground engaging wheel to thereby guide the vehicle.
Subclass:
432
With plural working members:
This subclass is indented under subclass 417. Subject matter
in which the motive means includes at least two separate
force or work producing members.
Subclass:
433
Working member movement traverses vehicle path:
This subclass is indented under subclass 432. Subject matter
in which the force or work producing members move in a
direction extending at least generally from side to side of
the vehicle in a direction traverse to its path of travel.
Subclass:
434
Working member movement traverses vehicle path:
This subclass is indented under subclass 417. Subject matter
in which the motive means includes a force or work producing
member having movement from side to side of the vehicle in a
direction substantially traverse to its path of travel.
Subclass:
435
Moves separate arm for each wheel steering arm:
This subclass is indented under subclass 434. Subject matter
in which the force or work producing member is connected to
actuate a plurality of force transmitting members each of
which being connected to steer a separate steerable wheel.
Subclass:
436
Working member part engages wheel steering arm:
This subclass is indented under subclass 434. Subject matter
wherein the force producing member is connected to a swinging
lever or crank of a steerable ground engaging wheel.
Subclass:
437
Working member part engages tie rod:
This subclass is indented under subclass 434. Subject matter
wherein the force producing member is connected to a force
transmitting member which is connected to a steering wheel
means at its ends.
Subclass:
438
Movable working member engages wheel steering arm:
This subclass is indented under subclass 417. Subject matter
wherein the motive means includes a force or work producing
member directly connected to a swinging lever or crank of a
steerable ground engaging wheel.
Subclass:
439
Movable working member is a moving cylinder:
This subclass is indented under subclass 417. Subject matter
in which the motive means includes a force or work producing
member comprising a movable housing or outer member thereof
which surrounds a fixed member of substantially like
dimension.
Subclass:
440
With linkage intermediate working member and wheel steering
arm:
This subclass is indented under subclass 417. Subject matter
in which the motive means includes a force or work producing
member connected to at least one force transmitting member
having connection either directly or via another force
transmitting member to a swinging lever or crank of a
steerable ground engaging wheel.
Subclass:
441
Device to control pressure (e.g., valve):
This subclass is indented under subclass 417. Subject matter
designed to vary the fluid pressure in a fluid power assisted
steering system.
Subclass:
442
Hydraulic circuit:
This subclass is indented under subclass 417. Subject matter
wherein a number of fluid logic devices are connected
together forming a system for providing fluid to a power
steering device.
Subclass:
443
With electric power assist:
This subclass is indented under subclass 400. Subject matter
in which there is provided motive means movable by the
application of electrical power (e.g., an electric
servomotor) thereto to provide substantially all of the force
required for guiding the vehicle, the initiating and/or
remaining force being provided by a vehicle operator in
guiding the vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
400 for detectors and sensors for steering systems where a
control system is not being claimed.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
318, Electricity: Motive Power Systems, subclasses 560+ for
positional servo systems (e.g., servomechanisms); and see
particularly subclass 628 for "feedback" systems.
Subclass:
444
Specific mechanical feature:
This subclass is indented under subclass 443. Subject matter
directed to a mechanical linkage between the electric power
means and the steering gear.
Subclass:
445
Controlling rear wheels:
This subclass is indented under subclass 443. Subject matter
directed to an electric motor for steering the rear wheels of
the vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 412+ for a vehicle having electrical power
assisted rear wheel steering and also having front steerable
wheels.
Subclass:
446
Condition modulated:
This subclass is indented under subclass 443. Subject matter
wherein there is provided a means responsive either to (a) a
condition of operation of the vehicle or (b) a change thereof
for continuously and proportionally controlling the
electrically powered motive means to compensate for the
influence of the condition or change thereof in the guidance
of the vehicle by the operator.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
404 for devices which sense a condition and disable or
indicate failure or malfunction of the power assist.
Subclass:
447
With mechanical power assist:
This subclass is indented under subclass 400. Subject matter
in which there is provided motive means movable by the
application of mechanical power (obtained, for example, from
a power take-off mechanism) thereto to provide substantially
all of the force required for guiding the vehicle, the
initiating and/or remaining force being provided a vehicle
operator in guiding the vehicle.
(1) Note. When the invention relates to steering gear and
transmission mechanism for actuating it, the fact that a
shaft rotating constantly in one direction supplies the power
is regarded as evidence that the steering gear is driven by
power.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
17 for steering by differential rotation of the wheels on
opposite sides of the vehicle.
18 for steering by driving controlled by steering of this
type.
20 power steering of some steam rollers.
Subclass:
448
Swinging axle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 447. Subject matter
wherein the mechanical power is applied to steer a continuous
axle which carries a wheel in the vicinity of each of its
ends.
Subclass:
449
Bogie truck having more than one axle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 447. Subject matter
wherein the mechanical power is applied to steer a bogie
truck having more than one axis.
CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS
Subclass:
900
AGRICULTURAL-TYPE TRACTORS:
Art collection of motor vehicles wherein the vehicle is in
the nature of either a traction vehicle for pulling a farm
implement or a vehicle which not only moves but also supports
such an implement and wherein the vehicle includes one or
more features which particularly adapt it for an
agriculture-related use (e.g., cultivating, harvesting,
etc.).
Subclass:
901
DEVICES FOR TRAVERSING VERTICAL SURFACES:
Art collection of motor vehicles wherein the vehicle is in
the nature of a device which is particularly adapted (e.g.,
by magnetic means) to move itself along a surface which is
predominantly vertical.
Subclass:
902
SHOCK OR VIBRATION ABSORBING OR TRANSMITTING MEANS BETWEEN
WHEEL SUSPENSION AND MOTOR:
Art collection of motor vehicles wherein the vehicle is
provided with means located between its motor and the
structure for suspending its (usually front) wheels for
absorbing or transmitting a force in the nature of a shock or
vibration.
Subclass:
903
AIRSTREAM REACTIVE VEHICLE OR VEHICLE STRUCTURE:
Art collection of motor vehicles wherein the vehicle or a
component thereof is so configured as to react with the
ambient air under the condition of relative movement of the
vehicle and the air.
Subclass:
904
TRACTION DOLLIES FOR AIRCRAFT:
Art collection of motor vehicles wherein the vehicles is a
traction dolly employed to move aircraft on the ground with
the vehicle connectable to the aircraft usually at the
aircraft's steerable wheel.
Subclass:
905
AXLES:
Art collection of axles for motor vehicles.
Subclass:
906
ADJUSTABLE AXLES:
Art collection of axles for motor vehicles wherein the axle
is adjustable to vary the distance between the wheels mounted
on the axle.
Subclass:
907
MOTORIZED WHEELCHAIRS:
Art collection of wheelchairs equipped with motors for
driving the wheelchair.
Subclass:
908
MOTOR VEHICLES WITH SHORT WHEEL BASE:
Art collection of motor vehicles wherein the wheelbase of the
vehicle is shorter than normal so that usually only the
operator of the vehicle may be carried by the vehicle (e.g.,
lift trucks of the industrial tractors).
(1) Note. Farm or agricultural tractors are excluded from
this collection as an art collection of agricultural tractors
will be found in subclass 900.
Information Products Division -- Contacts
Questions regarding this report should be directed to:
U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
Information Products Division
PK3- Suite 441
Washington, DC 20231
tel: (703) 306-2600
FAX: (703) 306-2737
email: oeip@uspto.gov
Last Modified: 6 October 2000