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Originally Posted by redpoint5
Doesn't Old Mech have a patent on a hydraulic hybrid? I'd really like to see an efficient way to store mechanical energy so that the engine could be pulsed while the vehicle speed remains constant.
Sure, pulse and glide takes much of the advantage away from hybrids, but how many people would tolerate their speed constantly fluctuating 10 mph or more? I certainly don't, and that's why a hybrid makes sense for me. Perhaps a non-electric hybrid would make even more sense. Converting mechanical energy into electrical, then into chemical, and then back into electrical and then back to mechanical is a silly process.
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One of my classmates is building a hydraulicly assisted wheelchair. I believe somebody at university of michigan made a hydraulic assisted bicycle.
Not exactly the same, but the concept is there. His budget is $3,000 though, so hold onto your hat when it comes to parts.