View Single Post
  #7 (permalink)  
Old 01-13-2006, 10:23 AM
Double-Trinity Double-Trinity is offline
Pretty Darn Active Enthusiast
 
Real Name: Mike
Hybrids: 2003 Honda Civic Hybrid
Posts: 474
Default Re: Toyota's HSD may infringe on previous patents

Quote:
If it can pass the "obviousness" test (prove that the idea is not obvious that if you ask engineers to build a device that fulfills the same kinds of functions that many would come up with a very similar implementation) then Solomon Tech will likely win.
In my opinion the entire HSD system itself seems quite "obvious" and should not be patentable. You have two power sources-- an engine and a motor-- connected to a drivetrain via a differential (planetary gears). Also, similar continuously variable transmissions have been used via hydraulics, rather than electrics, for years.
Reply With Quote