| GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC. Patent applications |
| Patent application number | Title | Published |
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| 20120036467 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PRODUCING A TOUR - Systems and methods are provided for producing tours. The system includes, but is not limited to a data storage device that is configured to store a plurality of POI inputs and/or routes. A server is operatively coupled to the data storage device and is configured to host a website accessible via a worldwide computer network, obtain a search criterion from a user accessing the website, retrieve a subset of the POI inputs and/or routes corresponding to the search criterion from the data storage device, arrange the POI inputs and/or routes of the subset in a manner corresponding to the search criterion to form the tour, at least temporarily store the tour in an electronic file compatible with a mobile device, and electronically deliver the electronic file to the user. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120035819 | REAL TIME ESTIMATION ALGORITHM FOR TORQUE CONVERTER CLUTCH FEED FORWARD PRESSURE FOR ECCC CONTROL - A powertrain includes a torque generative device and a torque converter having an impeller, a turbine and a torque converter clutch. A method to control torque converter slip includes monitoring a reference slip and a turbine speed of the torque converter, determining a turbine torque based upon the reference slip and the turbine speed, determining a feed forward torque converter clutch pressure command based upon the turbine torque, a torque generative device torque, and a TCC gain, and controlling the torque converter clutch based upon the feed forward torque converter clutch pressure command. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120035803 | Event-Driven Data Mining Method for Improving Fault Code Settings and Isolating Faults - A parameter identification-based fault isolation technique is provided for improving fault code settings and isolating faults. DTCs and PIDs are retrieved from a current serviced vehicle. PID data is obtained from prior serviced vehicles having same vehicle specifications as and under substantially similar operating conditions as the current serviced vehicles. A plurality of clusters is formed using PID data of the prior serviced vehicles using mutual dependence to one another. A joint probability distribution is determined as a function of a mutual dependence of the PID data. PID data is selected of the current serviced vehicle having coherence to the PID of the prior service vehicles. A mutual dependence of the PID data of the current serviced vehicle is projected on onto the corresponding joint probability distribution. An anomaly in the PID data of the current serviced vehicle is detected in response to the probability distribution of parameter identification data being outside of a predetermined variance. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120035794 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLING SPEED OF AN ELECTRIC PUMP IN A VEHICLE - A vehicle includes a clutch set, a tank with fluid, an auxiliary battery, an electric fuel pump, and a controller. The electric fluid pump delivers some of the fluid from the tank to a designated oncoming clutch of the clutch set. The controller calculates a predicted flow value for the oncoming clutch during the shift event, and selectively controls the speed of the pump using the predicted flow value during the shift event. The controller controls the pump using an actual flow value when the vehicle is not executing a shift event, i.e., when holding torque. The speed of the electric fluid pump is increased to a first calculated speed determined using the predicted flow value when the shift event is initiated and before filling of the oncoming clutch commences, and is reduced to a second calculated speed determined using the actual flow value when the shift event is complete. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120035793 | METHOD FOR MANAGING TRANSITIONS IN INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINES WITH A HYBRID DRIVE POWERTRAIN - A method for controlling combustion mode transitions for an engine of a hybrid powertrain includes commanding an increase in engine torque, adjusting motor torque output from a torque machine responsive to the operator torque request and the commanded increase in engine torque, executing the combustion mode transition, and operating the torque machine in a torque reclamation state. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120032506 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR STARTING AN INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE - A starting system for an internal combustion engine includes a starter motor configured to transfer torque to the engine during an engine starting event, a low-voltage power bus including a first bus segment and a second bus segment, a controllable isolation circuit including a first state wherein the first and second bus segments are electrically coupled and a second state wherein the first and second bus segments are electrically isolated, a low-voltage battery and the starter motor electrically coupled to the first bus segment, an accessory power module and a power supply for a control module electrically coupled to the second bus segment; and the control module configured to control the isolation circuit to the second state to electrically isolate the first bus segment from the second bus segment during the engine starting event. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120032454 | LATCHING MECHANISM - A latching system for and a method of latching a first member to a second member are provided. The latching system includes a latching mechanism including a displaceable feature which, when operatively displaced, allows a striker to engage with a housing of the latching mechanism, at a recess defined by the housing, to provide supplementary or auxiliary latching force. The displaceable feature may be displaced by an actuating load transmitted between the striker and the latching mechanism, where the actuating load is substantially greater than the nominal load experienced by the latching system during ordinary latching conditions. The engagement of the striker with the housing at the recess may transfer a portion of the actuating load to the housing during the event generating the actuating load, thereby increasing the latching strength of the latching system and reducing the potential for deformation or distortion of the latching element during the event. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120032438 | HIGH PRESSURE FITTING FOR HYDROGEN APPLICATIONS - High pressure hydrogen fittings are provided. In one embodiment, the high pressure hydrogen fitting includes a pipe having flange near one end; a nut surrounding the pipe on a low pressure side of the flange, the nut having threads mating with threads on a valve body; a lip seal surrounding the pipe on a high pressure side of the flange, the flange supporting the lip seal, the lip seal pointing toward the valve body, the lip seal having a cylindrical sealing surface, the cylindrical seal surface engaging the valve body; wherein when the pipe containing hydrogen is connected to a valve body, a seal is maintained at a pressure of up to about 87.5 MPa. Methods of sealing a pipe to a valve body are also described. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120031939 | ROOF RACK ASSEMBLY WITH INTEGRATED LIGHTING - A roof rack assembly for a vehicle having a roof is presented here. The roof rack assembly includes a first stanchion for structural attachment to the roof, a second stanchion for structural attachment to the roof, and a bar coupled between, and held above the roof by, the first stanchion and the second stanchion. The bar has a securing feature integrally formed therein, which holds an electric powered light-emitting component. Accordingly, the roof rack assembly employs a roof rack bar having a light-emitting element integrated therein. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120031384 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR OPERATING A COMPRESSION IGNITION ENGINE - A method for operating an internal combustion engine includes monitoring oxygen concentration in an exhaust gas feedstream, a mass flowrate of intake air, and a commanded fuel pulse of fuel. A blend ratio of biodiesel fuel and petrodiesel fuel of the fuel is determined. Engine operation is controlled in response to the blend ratio of biodiesel fuel and petrodiesel fuel of the fuel. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120031373 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING ENGINE KNOCK USING ELECTRO-HYDRAULIC VALVE ACTUATION - A control system for an engine includes a knock control module and a valve control module. The knock control module adjusts a period that one or more of an intake valve and an exhaust valve of a cylinder are open based on engine knock corresponding to the cylinder. The valve control module, based on the adjusted period, controls the one or more of the intake valve and the exhaust valve using one or more hydraulic actuators. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120031355 | ENGINE INCLUDING PARTIAL INTEGRATED INTAKE MANIFOLD - An engine assembly may include an engine block, a cylinder head coupled to the engine block, and first and second intake valves supported by the cylinder head. The engine block may define a first set of cylinder bores arranged longitudinally in series and including a first cylinder bore and a second cylinder bore adjacent the first cylinder bore. The cylinder head may define a cavity forming an intake manifold region, a first intake runner extending laterally inward from the intake manifold region toward the first cylinder bore and a second intake runner extending laterally inward from the intake manifold region toward the second cylinder bore. The first intake valve may selectively provide communication between the first intake runner and the first cylinder bore. The second intake valve may selectively provide communication between the second intake runner and the second cylinder bore. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120031231 | STOP-START SELF-SYNCHRONIZING STARTER SYSTEM - A starter system is provided for an engine having a stop-start capability. The starter system includes a first gear coupled to the engine, wherein the first gear rotates at a speed of the engine. The starter system also includes a starter arranged relative to the engine. The starter includes a second gear arranged to selectively mesh with and apply torque to the first gear in order to start the engine, such that the second gear is capable of rotating at the speed of the engine. The starter additionally includes a synchronizer arranged to substantially match the speed of the first gear with the speed of the engine prior to engagement of the first and second gears, such that the second gear is enabled to mesh with and apply torque to the first gear to thereby start the engine. The starter system and the engine may be employed in a vehicle. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120031084 | TANK ASSEMBLY AND METHOD - A tank assembly includes a tank defining a chamber that is configured to store a selectively variable volume of liquid. A positive temperature coefficient heater is disposed within the chamber. A source of electrical energy is in selective electrical communication with the heater and is configured to transfer electrical current to the heater. A controller is operatively connected to the heater and is configured to monitor the amount of electrical current to the heater. The controller is programmed to determine the volume of liquid in the chamber based on the amount of current transferred to the heater. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120031080 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PREDICTING PEAK TEMPERATURE IN A VEHICLE PARTICULATE FILTER - A vehicle includes an internal combustion engine having an exhaust port, a regenerable particulate filter in fluid communication with the exhaust port, and a host machine which calculates a predicted peak temperature in the particulate filter. The host machine automatically executes a control action when the predicted peak temperature exceeds a calibrated threshold, thus preventing the peak temperature from being realized. A soot model may be used to estimate filter soot loads and corresponding burn rates, with the host machine extracting information from the soot model to calculate the predicted peak temperature. A system for use aboard the vehicle includes the particulate filter and host machine configured as noted above. A method for use aboard the vehicle includes calculating a predicted peak temperature in the particulate filter using the host machine, and automatically executing a control action when the predicted peak temperature exceeds a calibrated threshold. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120031079 | HYBRID POWERTRAIN SYSTEM INCLUDING AN INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE AND A STIRLING ENGINE - An exhaust aftertreatment system for treating an exhaust gas feedstream of an internal combustion engine includes a catalytic converter, a fluidic circuit and a Stirling engine. The Stirling engine is configured to transform thermal energy from a working fluid heat exchanger to mechanical power that is transferable to an electric motor/generator to generate electric power. The Stirling engine is configured to transform mechanical power from the electric motor/generator to thermal energy transferable to the working fluid heat exchanger. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120031072 | Target Particulate Matter Filter Regeneration and Temperature Control System - A regeneration system includes a particulate matter (PM) filter loading module that determines a current soot loading level of a PM filter. A PM filter temperature module determines a temperature of the PM filter. An exhaust flow rate module determines an exhaust flow rate of the PM filter. A control module deactivates an air pump of an air pump circuit and operates an engine within a predetermined range of stoichiometry based on the current soot loading, the temperature and the exhaust flow rate. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120029787 | INCREASED FUEL ECONOMY MODE CONTROL SYSTEMS AND METHODS - An engine control system includes a desired manifold absolute pressure (MAP) module, a MAP to torque module, a threshold determination module, and a fuel economy (FE) mode module. The desired MAP module determines a desired MAP for operation of an engine in one of a cylinder deactivation mode and a low-lift mode based on a difference between a desired vacuum and an air pressure upstream of a throttle valve. The MAP to torque module determines a desired torque output of the engine for operation in the one of the cylinder deactivation mode and the low-lift mode based on the desired MAP. The threshold determination module determines an entry torque based on the desired torque output. The FE mode module selectively triggers operation in the one of the cylinder deactivation mode and the low-lift mode based on a comparison of the entry torque and a torque request. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120029777 | GEAR PRESELECT SYSTEMS FOR A DUAL CLUTCH TRANSMISSION - A dual-clutch transmission (DCT) system includes a vehicle speed offset module that generates a vehicle speed offset signal based on a preselect time and a vehicle acceleration signal. A compensated vehicle speed module generates a compensated vehicle speed based on the vehicle speed offset signal and a vehicle speed. A preselect command module generates a predicted gear signal based on a comparison between the compensated vehicle speed and a shift point from a shift pattern module. The predicted gear signal, identifies a first predicted gear of a DCT. The preselect time is defined as at least an amount of time to disengage a second predicted gear and preengage the first predicted gear. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120029769 | ARCHITECTURE AND METHODOLOGY FOR HOLISTIC VEHICLE CONTROL - A method to control a vehicle includes monitoring desired vehicle force and moment, monitoring real-time corner constraints upon vehicle dynamics which includes monitoring corner states of health for the vehicle, and monitoring corner capacities for the vehicle. The method further includes determining a desired corner force and moment distribution based upon the desired vehicle force and moment and the real-time corner constraints, and controlling the vehicle based upon the desired corner force and moment distribution. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120029758 | TELEMATICS UNIT AND METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR INITIATING VEHICLE CONTROL USING TELEMATICS UNIT INFORMATION - A method and system are provided for initiating control of a vehicle. A telematics unit includes a connector and a relay unit. The connector is configured to be coupled to a vehicle component. The relay unit is coupled to the connector, and is configured to provide information pertaining to the connector's coupling to the vehicle component. The immobilizer unit is configured to be coupled to the telematics unit, and includes a receiver and a processor. The receiver is configured to receive the information. The processor is coupled to the receiver, and is configured to initiate a measure of control of the vehicle if the information indicates that the telematics unit has been tampered with. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120029742 | HYBRID POWERTRAIN WITH ELECTRONIC THROTTLE AND METHOD OF CONTROLLING THROTTLE POSITION - A hybrid powertrain and a method of controlling a throttle in an engine of the hybrid powertrain are provided. A throttle system has a throttle at an optimal position for the engine to power a first motor/generator when an electric throttle motor is de-energized to minimize current consumption by the throttle motor. The electric throttle motor is energizable to adjust the position of the throttle. A biasing member biases the throttle to a default position when the electric throttle motor is not energized. The hybrid powertrain has a first motor/generator operatively connected to the engine, and a second motor/generator operatively connected to the generator and operable for providing output power. The engine is operable in a predetermined optimal state to provide power to the generator for powering the first motor/generator. The throttle is at a predetermined position when the engine is in the predetermined optimal state. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120029741 | POWER MODULE ACTIVE CURRENT MANAGEMENT FOR EFFICIENCY IMPROVEMENT - A vehicle includes a motor, an alternating current (AC) power bus, a power inverter module (PIM), and a controller. The PIM includes a semiconductor die assembly with semiconductor power switches arranged in electrical parallel for delivering AC power to the motor via the bus. The controller determines an operating mode of the vehicle, selects and activates a designated one of the switches during a threshold low-current state of the PIM, and selects and activates all of the switches during a high-current state of the PIM. A PIM assembly for the vehicle includes the die assembly and controller. A method for optimizing energy efficiency of the vehicle includes providing the die assembly noted above, automatically determining the operating mode, and selecting and activating one of the switches when the operating mode corresponds to the threshold low-current state, and all of the electrical switches during the threshold high-current state of the PIM. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120029727 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETECTING VEHICLE MOTION - A control system for a vehicle includes a period determination module and a motion detection module. The period determination module determines a period for the vehicle to travel a predetermined distance based on a desired transmission output shaft speed (TOSS), a target transmission output shaft position, a final drive ratio of the vehicle, and a tire size of the vehicle. The motion detection module detects whether the vehicle is moving based on the TOSS during the determined period. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120029724 | BATTERY THERMAL SYSTEM CONTROL STRATEGY - A method and system for controlling temperature in an electric vehicle battery pack which preserves battery pack performance and longevity while maximizing vehicle driving range. A controller prescribes a minimum allowable operating temperature in the battery pack, where the minimum operating temperature increases as battery pack state of charge and remaining useful life decrease. During vehicle driving operations, the minimum allowable temperature is computed, and a thermal management system is used to warm the battery pack only if necessary to raise its temperature above the calculated minimum level. By minimizing use of the thermal management system to warm the battery pack, energy consumption is reduced and vehicle driving range is increased, while not adversely affecting battery pack performance or durability. The same strategy is employed during charging, which reduces the amount of energy consumed from the grid for warming the battery pack. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120028748 | LUBRICATION SYSTEM FOR A PLANETARY GEAR SET - A planetary gear set for a transmission, the planetary gear set having a sun gear, a ring gear and a carrier assembly. The carrier assembly includes an annular first carrier member, at least one pinion pin, and at least one planet gear assembly. The first carrier member has at least one radial groove connecting a step surface to an inner surface of a pinion pin bore. A pinion pin has a bearing surface and a bore. The bore has a first and a second open end, the first open end in communication with the bearing surface the second open end in communication with the radial groove of the carrier member. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120028154 | FUEL CELL HAVING IMPROVED THERMAL CHARACTERISTICS - One exemplary embodiment includes a fuel cell comprising a polymer electrolyte membrane sandwiched between an anode and a cathode, a gas diffusion layer disposed over each of the cathode and the anode, a gas flow distributor layer disposed over the gas diffusion layer on both the anode and cathode sides, and optionally a coolant plate disposed over the gas flow distributor layer. The thermal resistance of the combined gas diffusion layer and gas flow distributor layer on the anode and/or cathode side is sufficient to allow the cathode catalyst layer to operate at an elevated temperature to effectively evaporate water produced at the cathode. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120028152 | DIAGNOSIS AND REMEDIATION OF LOW ANODE HYDROGEN PARTIAL PRESSURE IN A PEM FUEL CELL SYSTEM - A system and method for preventing anode reactant starvation. The system includes a hydrogen source, an anode bleed valve, and a cell voltage monitor. The system also includes an anode sub-system pressure sensor and a controller configured to control the anode sub-system. The controller determines the average cell voltage and estimates the hydrogen molar fraction and/or nitrogen molar fraction in the anode sub-system. The controller also receives measurement data from the cell voltage monitor and the pressure sensor, and determines whether there is a decrease in the minimum cell voltage in response to changes in the anode pressure. If the controller detects a decrease in the minimum cell voltage in response to changes in the anode pressure, the controller corrects for the decrease by increasing anode pressure and/or by decreasing the molar fraction of nitrogen in the anode sub-system. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120028140 | THERMAL HYDROGEN COMPRESSOR - A compressor for compressing a gas. The compressor receives the gas at a base pressure from a source and provides the gas at a higher pressure to a target. The compressor includes a series of pressure vessels and a one-way valve between the vessels, where a first pressure vessel is coupled to the source and a last pressure vessel is coupled to the target. For one period of time, every other pressure vessel in the series is heated starting with the pressure vessel coupled to the source. As the pressure in the heated pressure vessels increases as a result of the heat, the gas is sent to a next pressure vessel in the series of pressure vessels. After some period of time, the other alternating sequence of pressure vessels is heated to move the gas along the series of pressure vessels from the source to the target. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120028098 | MODULAR BATTERY DESIGN - A battery pack is described. One embodiment of the battery pack includes a pair of end frames, the end frames having a top and a bottom and a pair of sides, the end frames having a detent on at least one of the sides of the end frames to receive a clamp; a frame positioned between the pair of end frames, the frame having a top and a bottom and a pair of sides, the frame having a ridge on at least one of the sides of the frame; a plurality of battery cells positioned in the frame and the pair of end frames, the plurality of battery cells electrically connected to each other at the top of the frame; and at least one cooling fin positioned between the battery cells. Methods of repairing battery packs are also described. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120028097 | REPEATING FRAME BATTERY WITH JOINING OF CELL TABS VIA WELDED-ON MALE AND FEMALE SLIP-FIT CONNECTORS - A repeating cell frame for a battery pack assembly is disclosed having a cooling module and a spacer module. The cooling module includes a frame having a first electrical connector and a second electrical connector disposed thereon, wherein a first battery cell includes a first electrically conductive tab in electrical communication with the first electrical connector and a second electrically conductive tab in electrical communication with the second electrical connector. The spacer module includes a frame having a third electrical connector and a fourth electrical connector disposed thereon, wherein a second battery cell includes a first electrically conductive tab in electrical communication with the third electrical connector and a second electrically conductive tab in electrical communication with the fourth electrical connector. The third electrical connector of the spacer module is releasably joined to the second electrical connector of the cooling module to form the repeating cell frame. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120025842 | METHOD FOR MONITORING A POWER COUPLER FOR A PLUG-IN ELECTRIC VEHICLE - A method for monitoring a power coupler for a plug-in electric vehicle during a charging process, where the method may perform one of several alerts in the event that the vehicle stops receiving power. In an exemplary embodiment, the method performs a theft alert when the power coupler is physically unplugged or disconnected (this is intended to dissuade people from stealing the power coupler), and it performs a power loss alert when there is a loss of electrical power at the wall (this is intended to notify the vehicle owner when there is a power outage, a tripped circuit breaker, or any other condition that prevents the vehicle from being charged). By distinguishing between possible theft situations and simple power loss situations, the method can perform or issue an alert that is better tailored to the particular conditions that triggered it. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120025835 | Sensor Arrangement for an Energy Storage Device and a Method of Using the Same - A sensor arrangement and method that may be used with a variety of different energy storage devices, including battery packs found in hybrid vehicles, battery electric vehicles, and other types of vehicles. Some battery monitoring systems, such as those designed to monitor and/or control lithium-ion battery packs, may require individual voltage readings for each and every cell. If a battery monitoring system component—even one that provides just one of these sensor readings—malfunctions or otherwise experiences a fault condition, then it may be necessary to bring the entire vehicle in for service. The exemplary sensor arrangement and method may be used to control a series of balancing switches in the sensor arrangement in such a way that enables the vehicle to detect fault conditions and to continue operating successfully in the event that such fault conditions occur. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120025762 | METHOD FOR OPTIMIZED DESIGN AND OPERATION OF BATTERY COOLING SYSTEM IN ELECTRIC VEHICLES - A method and system for controlling temperature in an electric vehicle battery pack such that battery pack longevity is preserved, while vehicle driving range is maximized. A controller prescribes a maximum allowable temperature in the battery pack as a function of state of charge, reflecting evidence that lithium-ion battery pack temperatures can be allowed to increase as state of charge decreases, without having a detrimental effect on battery pack life. During vehicle driving, battery pack temperature is allowed to increase with decreasing state of charge, and a cooling system is only used as necessary to maintain temperature beneath the increasing maximum level. The decreased usage of the cooling system reduces energy consumption and increases vehicle driving range. During charging operations, the cooling system must remove enough heat from the battery pack to maintain temperatures below a decreasing maximum, but this has no impact on driving range. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120025619 | METHOD FOR HIGH VOLTAGE BUS CONTROL IN FUEL CELL VEHICLES - A system and method for controlling the voltage on a high voltage bus in a fuel cell system in response to a failed high voltage battery. The method includes determining if the high voltage battery has failed, and disconnecting the battery from the high voltage bus in response to a failure. The method measures the voltage of the fuel cell stack by a DC boost circuit and converts the measured voltage to a voltage set-point value that sets the voltage on the high voltage bus, where the voltage set-point value changes as the measured voltage changes. A supervisory controller sets the media flow to the fuel cell stack and determines a minimum stack voltage limit value based on the stack maximum current draw that is used to determine a high voltage bus lower limit value. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120025412 | INTEGRAL COOLING FIXTURE ADDENDUM FOR PANELS FORMED IN METAL FORMING PROCESS - One embodiment includes a method for forming panels in which a particular shaping of the addendum contours of the formed panel to provide the functionality of the cooling fixture. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120024922 | ROOF RACK ASSEMBLY WITH TRANSLATION OF PIVOTABLE ROOF RACK BOW - A roof rack assembly includes a first roof rail and a second roof rail spaced a first distance from one another on the vehicle roof. The first roof rail has a first slot extending partially along the length of the first roof rail. A first bow member is connected at a first pivot member to the first roof rail at the first slot. A first linkage member has a first portion connected at a second pivot member to the first bow member and a second portion connected at a third pivot member to the first roof rail. The first linkage member pulls the first pivot member toward the third pivot member so the first bow member translates in the first slot as the first bow member is pivoted away from the first rail. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120024270 | METHOD OF MODEL-BASED MULTIVARIABLE CONTROL OF EGR AND BOOST FOR INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINES - A method to control an exhaust gas recirculation and a manifold air pressure in an engine includes utilizing a decoupling matrix within a multiple input and multiple output controller to determine an exhaust gas recirculation command and a manifold air pressure command, wherein the decoupling matrix is configured based upon a diagonally dominant model of the engine compensated by the determined exhaust gas recirculation command and the manifold air pressure command. The exhaust gas recirculation and manifold air pressure are controlled based upon the determined exhaust gas recirculation command and the determined manifold air pressure command. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120024263 | METHOD FOR ESTIMATING FUEL INJECTING PRESSURE - A method is provided for estimating fuel injecting pressure of an injector belonging to a fuel injection system of an internal combustion engine. The fuel injection system includes, but is not limited to a fuel rail and at least one injector that are fluidly connected with the fuel rail through a connecting conduit. The method includes, but is not limited to modelling the pressure fluctuation within the connecting conduit according to the equation P=B·e | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120024252 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR STARTING AN ENGINE USING LOW ELECTRIC POWER - A method and a system are provided for starting an engine that is employed for propulsion of a vehicle. The method includes determining that an engine start via a starter is desired, wherein the starter is powered by an energy storage device. The method also includes determining a state of charge of the energy storage device. The method additionally includes commanding the starter to crank the engine at a first predetermined speed, if the energy storage device is at or above a predetermined state of charge and supplying fuel to the engine for a first predetermined number of fueling events. Furthermore, the method includes commanding the starter to crank the engine at a second predetermined speed that is lower than the first predetermined speed and supplying fuel to the engine for a second predetermined number of fueling events, if the energy storage device is below the predetermined state of charge. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120024107 | TRANSMISSION WITH SPLASH LUBRICATION SYSTEM - A transmission is provided with a transmission case partially defining a cavity containing unpressurized fluid. The transmission case has a first feature configured to collect splashed fluid and a second feature configured to direct the collected fluid to a chamber at least partially formed by the transmission case. A cap connected to the transmission case has an opening and an orifice offset from the opening. Fluid flows from the chamber through the orifice to a component when fluid reaches a first level in the chamber and flows through the central opening through an axial passage in the shaft to other components when fluid reaches a second level in the chamber. Fluid flow is provided to components through an axial passage from both ends of a rotatable shaft, such as an input shaft. The axial passage may have a threaded end to pump oil away from the end and prevent backflow. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120023932 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CALCULATING A VEHICLE EXHAUST MANIFOLD PRESSURE - A vehicle includes an engine, an air intake assembly having a variable geometry turbine (VGT) controllable using a turbine mass flow map, an exhaust manifold, and a controller. The controller calculates a pressure ratio between the inlet and outlet sides of the VGT, and first and second exhaust manifold pressures using respective first and second models. Each of the models extracts information from the map. The controller executes a control action using the first pressure when the ratio exceeds a threshold, using the second pressure otherwise. The controller itself is also disclosed herein, as is a method for controlling an engine operation aboard the vehicle. The method includes using the host machine to calculate the exhaust pressure ratio, to calculate the first and second pressures using the respective first and second models, and to execute a control action using the first or second exhaust pressure depending on the ratio. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120023911 | DETECTION OF EXHAUST PARTICULATE FILTER SUBSTRATE FAILURE - A method of detecting failure of a substrate in a particulate filter includes comparing an absolute value of a difference between a theoretical temperature difference and an actual temperature difference between an upstream end and a downstream end of the particulate filter to a temperature differential threshold, and comparing an absolute value of a difference between a theoretical pressure difference and an actual pressure difference between the upstream end and the downstream end of the particulate filter to a pressure differential threshold. Failure of the substrate is indicated by one or both of the temperature difference and the pressure difference being greater than the temperature differential threshold and the pressure differential threshold respectively. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120023830 | SEALING ASSEMBLY FOR A VEHICLE - A sealing assembly is provided for a vehicle having independently opening and closing closure panels, such as first and second doors, which are hinged to a vehicle body with opposing hinges. The sealing assembly has a first seal that is mounted to the vehicle body to substantially surround a continuous door opening, and has a first membrane portion that extends over a first portion of the cutline. A second seal is mounted to a surface of the first door that faces the first membrane portion when the first door is closed. A third seal is mounted to a surface of the second door that faces the first membrane portion when the second door is closed. The first membrane portion is configured to be movable toward the closed first and second doors into contact with the second and third seals to seal the first portion of the cutline. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120022777 | AUTOMATIC CREATION OF SCENIC TOURS USING POINTS OF INTEREST - A method is provided for presenting audio information related to scenic points of interest (POIs) to a user traveling along a predetermined route. The predetermined route is guided by a navigation device for providing audio navigation announcements that include turn-by-turn directions to the user. The predetermined route is defined between the starting location and a destination that includes scenic POIs. Audio navigation announcements are output to the user for selectively guiding the user along the predetermined route. An active region around each POI while traveling along the predetermined route is used to identify a current POI. Audio POI information is reproduced relating to the current POI while the user is within the active region of the current POI. Audio POI information reproduced to the user is selectively scheduled at a time not conflicting with the audio navigation announcements output to the user. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120022747 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR DETERMINING TIRE/ROAD COEFFICIENT OF FRICTION - A vehicle control method includes iteratively modifying a level of braking of the vehicle until it is determined that the vehicle has substantially lost traction with respect to the road surface, then determining the coefficient of friction between the road surface and the tire based on the level of braking at the time the vehicle substantially lost fraction. In one embodiment, previous ABS or other vehicle control events are used as a basis for estimating an initial level of braking to be applied during the friction measurement procedure. Such a deterministic maneuver can also function as a collision warning to the driver of the vehicle. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120022739 | ROBUST VEHICULAR LATERAL CONTROL WITH FRONT AND REAR CAMERAS - A method and system for closed-loop vehicle lateral control, using image data from front and rear cameras and information about a leading vehicle's position as input. A host vehicle includes cameras at the front and rear, which can be used to detect lane boundaries such as curbs and lane stripes, among other purposes. The host vehicle also includes a digital map system and a system for sensing the location of a vehicle travelling ahead of the host vehicle. A control strategy is developed which steers the host vehicle to minimize the deviation of the host vehicle's path from a lane reference path, where the lane reference path is computed from the lane boundaries extracted from the front and rear camera images and from the other inputs. The control strategy employs feed-forward and feedback elements, and uses a Kalman filter to estimate the host vehicle's state variables. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120022718 | METHOD OF CONTROLLING START/STOP OF A VEHICLE AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT - A method of controlling a vehicle stopped at a stop cycle of a traffic light includes broadcasting a signal indicating the time remaining in the stop cycle, and engaging a vehicle drive component, such as and engine of the vehicle and/or an auxiliary pump of the vehicle, prior to the end of the stop cycle when the time remaining in the stop cycle is less than a pre-determined time period. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120021869 | TORQUE TRANSMISSION ASSEMBLY WITH CLUTCHES - A torque transmission assembly is disposed between a power source and a vehicle transmission and includes an annular housing, a pump member of a fluid coupling, a turbine member of the fluid coupling, a lockup clutch, a first shaft, a first selectable clutch, a second shaft, and a second selectable clutch. The turbine member opposes the pump member and the lockup clutch is selectively engaged between the pump member and the turbine member. The first selectable clutch is selectively engaged between the turbine member and the first shaft. The second selectable clutch is selectively engaged between the turbine member and the second shaft. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120021336 | SUPER-HYDROPHOBIC COMPOSITE BIPOLAR PLATE INCLUDING A POROUS SURFACE LAYER - A hydrophobic composite bipolar plate for a fuel cell including a substrate having a composite material including carbon and a surface layer on the substrate. The surface layer includes silicon and oxygen, and a hydrocarbon moiety attached to at least one of the silicon or oxygen. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120021270 | PRISMATIC BATTERY CELL WITH INTEGRATED COOLING PASSAGES AND ASSEMBLY FRAME - A battery cell assembly includes a main body configured to generate power from an electrochemical reaction. The main body has a first end and a second end, a first side and a second side, and a first major surface and a second major surface. A pair of electrical tabs extends outwardly at the first end of the main body. An insulating element is disposed adjacent the first major surface of the main body. A cooling element is disposed adjacent the second major surface of the main body. The cooling element includes at least one cooling passage. The at least one cooling passage is in heat exchange relationship with the main body and configured to transfer heat generated during the electrochemical reaction away from the main body. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120020023 | HEATING CIRCUIT AND ELECTRONICS ASSEMBLY - A heating circuit and an electronics assembly for use in a vehicle includes an external housing having outer walls and an internal wall dividing the external housing into an electronics cavity and a non-electronics cavity. A heat generating electronics assembly is located in the electronics cavity adjacent to the internal wall. A control electronics assembly is located in the electronics cavity adjacent to the heat generating electronics assembly, with the control electronics portion controlling the heat generating electronics assembly; and an internal heat shield extending between and shielding the control electronics assembly from the heat generating electronics assembly, with the internal heat shield being made of a thermally conductive material and having a contact portion attached to the internal wall, whereby heat absorbed by the internal heat shield transmitted to the internal wall. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120019255 | STACK-POWERED FUEL CELL MONITORING DEVICE WITH PRIORITIZED ARBITRATION - A system that monitors fuel cells in a fuel cell group. The system includes a plurality of voltage sensors coupled to the fuel cells in the fuel cell group, where each sensor monitors a different voltage of the fuel cells and where lower priority voltage sensors monitor higher voltages and higher priority sensors monitor lower voltages. The system also includes a plurality of oscillators where a separate oscillator is coupled to each of the sensors. Each oscillator operates at a different frequency where higher frequency oscillators are coupled to lower priority sensors and lower frequency oscillators are coupled to higher priority sensors. A light source that receives frequency signals from the oscillators and switches on and off in response to the frequency signals. A light pipe receives the switched light signals from the light source and provides light signals at a certain frequency at an end of the light pipe. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120019254 | METHOD TO PREDICT MIN CELL VOLTAGE FROM DISCRETE MIN CELL VOLTAGE OUTPUT OF STACK HEALTH MONITOR - A system for estimating parameters of a fuel cell stack. The system includes a stack health monitor for monitoring minimum cell voltage, stack voltage and current density of the fuel cell stack. The stack health monitor also indicates when a predetermined minimum cell voltage threshold level has been achieved. The system further includes a controller configured to control the fuel cell stack, where the controller determines and records the average fuel cell voltage. The controller generates and stores artificial data points proximate to the one or more predetermined minimum cell voltage threshold levels each time the minimum cell voltage drops below the one or more predetermined minimum cell voltage threshold levels so as to provide an estimation of the fuel cell stack parameters including a minimum cell voltage trend and a minimum cell voltage polarization curve. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120019252 | THROUGH-STACK COMMUNICATION METHOD FOR FUEL CELL MONITORING CIRCUITS - A system and method for monitoring fuel cells in a fuel cell group. The system includes a sensor circuit, such as a voltage sensor circuit, that monitors a condition of the fuel cells. If the sensor circuit detects a low performing cell, then it sends a signal to a tone generator that generates a frequency signal that switches a load into and out of the cell group. A voltage sensor detects the voltage of the cell group including the frequency signal, and sends the detected voltage signal to a tone decoder that decodes the frequency signal to determine that the fuel cells are low performing. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120019023 | RETRACTING SEAL SURFACE ENABLING INDEPENDENT ACTION OF OPPOSING HINGED VEHICLE DOORS - A seal module for sealing between a first door and a second door of opposing-hinged doors includes a base defining a channel and a retractable seal moveably disposed within the channel. The retractable seal moves between an extended position for sealing between the first door and the second door, and a retracted position spaced from one of the first door and the second door to allow independent pivotable movement of either the first door or the second door. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120018962 | STIFFNESS CONTROL USING SMART ACTUATORS - A stiffness control system and apparatus includes one or more stiffness elements which are each activated by a smart actuator including a smart material which may be one of a shape memory alloy (SMA), a magnetorheological (MR) fluid, an electrorheological (ER) fluid, and a piezo-stack. The stiffness control system includes a first and second interface adaptable to transmit input loads and a plurality of stiffness elements. A first stiffness element is operatively connected to the first and second interfaces and is continuously responsive to a change in system operating characteristics including input loads. A second stiffness element is selectively activated by the smart actuator so as to selectively respond to a change in system conditions. The continuous response of the first stiffness element can be selectively combined with the activated response of the second stiffness element to dynamically control system stiffness. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120018408 | METHOD FOR MONITORING AND MAINTAINING A RESISTANCE WELDING APPARATUS - A method of monitoring and maintaining a weld cap which is executing successive resistance welds on a plurality of workpieces includes measuring a first weld indentation formed during a first resistance weld and measuring a second weld indentation formed during a second resistance weld. The measured first and second weld indentations are compared with a severe threshold. If either of the measured first or second weld indentations is greater than the severe threshold, an abnormal condition is signaled. The method may include tip dressing the weld cap based upon the signaled abnormal condition. The method may further include determining a degradation rate between the first resistance weld and the second resistance weld. The degradation rate is the time differential between the measured first and second weld indentations, and either a first or a second tip dressing schedule is chosen based upon the determined degradation rate. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120017879 | Exhaust Gas Recirculation System For An Internal Combustion Engine - An exhaust gas recirculation system for an internal combustion engine comprises an exhaust driven turbocharger having a low pressure turbine outlet in fluid communication with an exhaust gas conduit. The turbocharger also includes a low pressure compressor intake and a high pressure compressor outlet in communication with an intake air conduit. An exhaust gas recirculation conduit fluidly communicates with the exhaust gas conduit to divert a portion of exhaust gas to a low pressure exhaust gas recirculation branch extending between the exhaust gas recirculation conduit and an engine intake system for delivery of exhaust gas thereto. A high pressure exhaust gas recirculation branch extends between the exhaust gas recirculation conduit and the compressor intake and delivers exhaust gas to the compressor for mixing with a compressed intake charge for delivery to the intake system. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120017716 | SYNCHRONIZER ACTUATION ASSEMBLY - A synchronizer actuation assembly for actuating at least one synchronizer member includes a barrel cam, at least one shift fork, a hydraulic piston assembly, and a motion converter. The barrel cam includes at least one cam groove that circumscribes the barrel cam and defines at least a neutral position and a first engaged position. The at least one shift fork has a first end portion disposed in the at least one cam groove and a second forked end portion. The hydraulic piston assembly includes a housing and a piston disposed in the housing. The motion converter includes a translatable input member engaged with the piston of the hydraulic piston assembly, a rotatable output member rotatably coupled with the barrel cam, and a direction selection mechanism. The translatable input member is selectively rotatably coupled with the rotatable output member in a first rotational direction or a second rotational direction. | 01-26-2012 |
| 20120014746 | GASKET-END FEATURE FOR SEALING A T-JOINT ASSEMBLY - A t-joint assembly includes a gasket having first and second ends, and a substantially elongated body having a profile. The first end includes an enlarged tapered section having a distal tip and a force-transfer surface disposed substantially perpendicular to the body. The assembly also includes a first component having a channel with a profile and a reaction surface configured to respectively complement the profile and accept the force-transfer surface of the gasket. The first component also has a first sealing surface arranged substantially parallel to the reaction surface, and a second sealing surface arranged substantially perpendicular to the reaction surface. The t-joint assembly additionally includes second and third components, each having a sealing surface. Inserting the gasket into the channel and assembling the three components compresses the gasket against the channel, and the tip of the gasket against the reaction surface, to thereby seal the t-joint. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120014140 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR REDUCING TRANSIENT VOLTAGE SPIKES IN MATRIX CONVERTERS - Systems and methods are provided for delivering energy using an energy conversion module that includes one or more switching elements. An exemplary electrical system comprises a DC interface, an AC interface, an isolation module, a first conversion module between the DC interface and the isolation module, and a second conversion module between the AC interface and the isolation module. A control module is configured to operate the first conversion module to provide an injection current to the second conversion module to reduce a magnitude of a current through a switching element of the second conversion module before opening the switching element. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120013170 | Ornamental Wheel Insert Attachment System - An ornamental wheel insert utilizing a snap-fit attachment to a wheel. In a first embodiment, fingers carrying bosses are attached to an insert body, wherein when the insert body is seated the bosses snappingly engage a boss abutment of the wheel. In a second embodiment, a snap ring snappingly engages the insert body from the inside of the wheel to thereby securely seat the insert body at the wheel. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120011073 | Knowledge Extraction Methodology for Unstructured Data Using Ontology-Based Text Mining - A method is provided for extracting data from service repair verbatims in a vehicle service reporting system. Each service repair verbatim includes a technician's comments concerning a part, a symptom associated with the part, and a repair action associated with the symptom. Each service repair verbatim includes information relating to an identified problem with at least one vehicle part. A diagnostic and prognostic ontology database is provided that is structured by vehicle part classification, a vehicle part sub-class classification, and a relationship classification, wherein the relationship classification includes symptom relationships and action relationships. Each of the service repair verbatims are reconstructed utilizing the diagnostic and prognostic ontology database. Combinations of information are extracted from the reconstructed service repair verbatims as a function of user input criteria. A frequency is determined of each combination extracted in the reconstructed service repair verbatims. The service repair verbatims are clustered for each combination. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120010802 | METHOD FOR STARTING AN INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE WITHIN A HYBRID POWERTRAIN - A hybrid powertrain includes an internal combustion engine, an electro-mechanical transmission and an electric machine. In an engine starting routine, flow control devices located proximate each combustion chamber in the engine initially restrict airflow into the cylinders to allow for a starter motor to rotate the engine at lower expansion and compression torque whereafter rotation of the engine is transitioned to the electric machine. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120010339 | Windshield Wipers and Methods for Producing Windshield Wiper Materials - Wiper blade materials and methods for forming the same. The wiper blade materials are graphene-polymer composites that have a low coefficient of friction. In forming the grapheme-polymer composites, a relatively small amount of graphene filler is well-dispersed within the polymer and the graphene filler and the polymer favorably interact with one another. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120010046 | NEGATIVE TORQUE UPSHIFT OFFGOING CLUTCH CONTROL SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A clutch control system for a vehicle includes a shift command module and an offgoing clutch control module. The shift command module commands an upshift of a clutch-to-clutch transmission when an engine torque is less than a predetermined negative torque. The offgoing clutch control module increases an offgoing clutch pressure above a predetermined apply pressure in response to the command. An offgoing clutch is fully engaged when the offgoing clutch pressure is greater than the predetermined apply pressure. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120010038 | MULTI-SPEED TRANSMISSION HAVING STACKED PLANETARY GEAR SETS - A transmission is has an input member, an output member, two stacked planetary gear sets, a third planetary gear set, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. The stacked planetary gear sets have a first, second, third, fourth and fifth member and the third planetary gear set has a first, second and third member. The torque transmitting devices include clutches and brakes. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120009462 | SUPPORT FEATURE FOR JOINING OF BATTERY CELL TABS - A battery assembly including a plurality of battery cells and at least one frame having a support feature formed thereon is disclosed. The support feature supports electrically conductive tabs of the battery cells and militates against damage to the battery assembly during a joining of one of the electrically conductive tabs with another one of the electrically conductive tabs of an adjacent battery cell or during a joining of the electrically conductive tabs of adjacent battery cells with a connector. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120008021 | Shadow Removal in an Image Captured by a Vehicle-Based Camera for Clear Path Detection - A method for is provided for creating a shadow-reduced image from a captured image for distinguishing a clear path of travel. Each pixel of a captured input image is plotted according to a two dimensional logarithmic graph. A specific color set relating to an associated color value of a clear path. A linear illumination-invariant axis is determined as a function of the specific color set. An illumination direction for the linear illumination-invariant axis is determined. A log-chromaticity value of each plotted pixel of the specific color set is projected on the axis. Edges in the input image and the illumination-invariant image domain are identified. The identified edges of the input image are compared to identify edges in the illumination-invariant image domain. A determination is made whether a shadow edge is present in response to comparing the edges. A shadow-reduced image is generated for scene analysis by a vehicle vision-based system. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120008020 | Shadow Removal in an Image Captured by a Vehicle Based Camera Using a Non-Linear Illumination-Invariant Kernel - A method is provided for removing an illumination generated shadow in a captured image. An image is captured by an image capture device. Each pixel of the captured image is represented by a respective color value in a logarithmic graph. A non-linear illumination-invariant kernel is determined. An illumination direction for each respective color set is determined in the logarithmic graph that is orthogonal to the non-linear illumination-invariant kernel. A log-chromaticity value of each plotted pixel is projected on the non-linear illumination-invariant kernel. Edges are identified in the input image. Edges are identified in the illumination-invariant image domain. The identified edges are compared. A determination is made whether a shadow is present in response to an edge identified in the input image and an absence of a correlating edge in the illumination-invariant image domain. A shadow-reduced image is generated for scene analysis by a vehicle vision-based system. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120008019 | Shadow Removal in an Image Captured by a Vehicle-Based Camera Using an Optimized Oriented Linear Axis - A method is provided for removing an illumination generated shadow in a captured image. Each pixel of the captured input image is plotted on a two dimensional logarithmic graph. A linear axis for the plurality of color sets is determined that is substantially orthogonal to a respective illumination direction of each respective color set. A log-chromaticity value of each plotted pixel is projected on the axis. An orientation of the linear axis is selected to minimize an illumination effect and provide optimum separation between each of the respective color sets on the linear axis. Edges in the input image and illumination invariant image domain are identified. The identified edges of the input image are compared to identify edges in the illumination invariant image domain. A determination is made whether a shadow edge is present in response to the comparison. A shadow-reduced image is generated for scene analysis by a vehicle vision-based system. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120006296 | METHOD FOR DIAGNOSING THE INTEGRITY OF A SWIRL GENERATING SYSTEM FOR AN INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE - A method is provided for diagnosing the integrity of a swirl generating system for an internal combustion engine. The swirl generating system includes, but is not limited to swirl controlling elements that are individually located in a respective air passage connecting the intake manifold of the engine to an intake port of an engine combustion chamber, an actuator having a movable shaft, a cinematic chain for mechanically connecting the swirl controlling elements to the actuator movable shaft, an actuator control unit for normally moving the actuator movable shaft in a first direction towards a first final position, and in a second opposite direction towards a second final position, and actuator sensor for sensing the position of the actuator movable shaft. The method providing to arrange at least a mechanical stop for directly acting on one component of the cinematic chain, in order to indirectly limit the movement of the actuator movable shaft in the first direction at a first checking position coincident or beyond the first final position, command the actuator control unit for moving the actuator movable shaft in the first direction towards the first checking position, and verify through the position sensing means whether the actuator movable shaft stops in the first checking position (CP | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120006295 | ENGINE ASSEMBLY INCLUDING ASYMMETRIC EXHAUST VALVE CONFIGURATION - An engine assembly may include an engine structure, a first valve and a second valve. The engine structure may define a combustion chamber and first and second exhaust ports in communication with the combustion chamber. The first valve may be arranged within the first exhaust port and have a first surface area. The second valve may be arranged within the second exhaust port and have a second surface area greater than the first surface area. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120006287 | ENGINE ASSEMBLY WITH INTEGRATED EXHAUST MANIFOLD - An engine assembly may include an engine structure, exhaust valves supported by the engine structure and a camshaft supported by the engine structure and engaged with the exhaust valves. The engine structure may define first, second, third and fourth combustion chambers arranged in series and a plurality of exhaust ports, each in communication with a corresponding combustion chamber. The engine structure may also define a flange region defining a first exhaust gas outlet axially aligned with the second combustion chamber and a second exhaust gas outlet axially aligned with the third combustion chamber. The engine structure may define first and second exhaust passages that extend from the first and second exhaust ports, respectively, to the first exhaust gas outlet and third and fourth exhaust passages that extend from the third and fourth exhaust ports, respectively, to the second exhaust gas outlet. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120006008 | OPTIMIZATION OF ACTIVE REGENERATION TRIGGERS BASED ON AMBIENT AND VEHICLE OPERATING CONDITIONS - A method of controlling the regeneration of a particulate filter includes defining a regeneration trigger limit for at least one operating parameter of the vehicle, modifying the regeneration trigger limit based upon a sensed ambient operating condition and a sensed vehicle operating condition to define a modified regeneration trigger limit, and regenerating the particulate filter when the modified regeneration trigger limit for the operating parameter is reached. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120006003 | METHOD OF OPERATING A VEHICLE UNDER FROZEN DIESEL EMISSION FLUID CONDITIONS - A method of controlling a vehicle includes determining if a diesel emission fluid is at least partially frozen, and determining if the vehicle is currently operating in a low diesel emission fluid inducement protocol. If the vehicle is not currently operating in the low diesel emission fluid inducement protocol, and the diesel emission fluid is at least partially frozen, then a temporary minimum diesel emission fluid mass may be defined to prevent entry of the vehicle into the low diesel emission fluid inducement protocol. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120004863 | METHOD OF MONITORING SOOT MASS IN A PARTICULATE FILTER AND MONITORING SYSTEM FOR SAME WITH CORRECTION FOR ACTIVE REGENERATION INEFFICIENCY - A method of monitoring soot mass in a particulate filter of an exhaust system includes determining a pressure differential across the filter, obtaining a first soot mass estimate by fitting the determined pressure differential to a first stored database of measured or modeled pressure differentials and corresponding measured soot masses taken during filter regeneration using a substantially similar filter previously loaded following a complete filter regeneration, and obtaining a second soot mass estimate by fitting the determined pressure differential to a second stored database of measured or modeled pressure differentials and corresponding measured soot masses taken during filter regeneration using a substantially similar filter loaded following an incomplete filter regeneration. Actual soot mass is estimated by calculating a weighted sum of the first and second soot mass estimates with weighting based on operating parameters indicative of regeneration efficiency. A monitoring system for a particulate filter is also provided. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20120004820 | SAFELY OVERRIDING UNINTENDED ACCELERATION PROTECTION IN VEHICLES TOWING TRAILERS - A system includes a trailer sensing module, a position sensing module, a torque reducing module, and an override control module. The trailer sensing module senses when a trailer is attached to a vehicle. The position sensing module senses positions of an accelerator pedal and a brake pedal of the vehicle. The torque reducing module reduces torque output to wheels of the vehicle when both the accelerator pedal and the brake pedal are pressed. The override control module selectively deactivates the torque reducing module when the trailer is attached to the vehicle and when a speed of the vehicle is less than or equal to a threshold. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20120004061 | SINGLE CLUTCH, TWO PLANETARY HYBRID ARCHITECTURE - A hybrid powertrain for a vehicle includes a prime mover, which may be an engine, and a transmission that has an input member configured for connection with the prime mover to receive torque from the prime mover, an output member, and a stationary member. A first motor/generator and a second motor/generator are provided as additional motive sources. A first planetary gear set and a second planetary gear set are included, each having a respective first member, second member, and third member. Only one clutch is operatively connected to the transmission, and it is selectively engagable to ground the input member and the first member of the second planetary gear set to the stationary member. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20120003511 | LITHIUM ION BATTERY FAILURE MITIGATION - A method of mitigating battery cell failure is provided. In one embodiment, the method includes providing a coupling between a battery pack and an internal combustion engine exhaust system, the coupling comprising: a duct positioned between the battery pack and the internal combustion engine exhaust system, the duct including at least one one-way valve positioned to allow battery cell exhaust to pass from the battery cell to the internal combustion engine exhaust system; detecting a thermal event; activating a fan, an air pump, or both in response to the thermal event to force the battery cell exhaust through the coupling; and treating the battery cell exhaust in the internal combustion engine exhaust system. Battery failure mitigation systems are also described. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20120001461 | STOWABLE ACTIVE MATERIAL ACTUATED REAR SEAT HEADREST - An active headrest adapted for use with a rear seat, including a translatable, conformable, or otherwise reconfigurable shell, an active material actuator disposed within and drivenly coupled to the shell, and preferably including a linkage system fixedly coupled to the seat and/or shell, wherein the actuator is operable to cause the headrest to achieve one of a plurality of achievable positions. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20120001450 | AIR DAM DEPLOYMENT AND RETRACTION SYSTEM - An air dam deployment and retraction system includes an air dam, a compressor, an air reservoir, a first switch, a second switch, and a third switch. The air dam is configured for moving between a deployed position and a retracted position. The compressor is configured to compress fluid. The air reservoir defines a chamber that is configured to receive a volume of the compressed fluid. The first switch is configured to selectively move between a first inactive position and a first active position. The first inactive position is configured to provide the compressed fluid to the atmosphere. The first active position is configured to provide the compressed fluid from the compressor to one of the chamber of the air reservoir and the air dam. The air dam is configured to move from the retracted position to the deployed position upon receiving the compressed fluid. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20120001354 | MAKING NANOSTRUCTURED POROUS HOLLOW SPHERES WITH TUNABLE STRUCTURE - Hollow, porous, spherical metal-carbon composite particles, having nanostructures, are prepared from suitable precursor solutions containing metal-organic ligand coordination complexes with template. Such precursors may be made for each elemental metal to be in the spherical particles. The precursor solution is atomized as an aerosol in an inert gas stream and the aerosol stream heated to decompose the organic ligand portion of the precursor leaving the spherical metal-carbon composite or metal alloy-carbon composite particles. The organic ligand serves as a structure directing agent in the shaping of the spherical particles after the ligand has been removed. Other materials may also be used as permanent or removed templates. The morphology of the particles may be altered for an application by varying the preparation and composition of the metal precursor material, and the optional use of a template. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20120000964 | BATTERY TAB JOINTS AND METHODS OF MAKING - A method of soldering battery cell tabs to a conductor is provided. The battery cell tab and the conductor are made of a material independently selected from aluminum, copper, or nickel-plated copper. The method include preparing an assembly of the battery cell tabs and the conductor with a first joining surface of one battery cell tab face-to-face with a first joining surface of the conductor, at least one joining surface having a layer of solder thereon; pressing the assembly so that the facing joining surfaces engage the solder, and heating the solder to a temperature above a melting temperature of the solder in the absence of a fluxing agent while limiting the displacement of the joining surfaces to a predetermined value; and holding the joining surfaces against each other and solidifying the solder to form a soldered joint between the battery cell tabs and the conductor. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20120000916 | COMPOSITE PRESSURE VESSEL AND METHOD OF ASSEMBLING THE SAME - A composite pressure vessel assembly method includes fitting an end portion of a tubular member into an annular slot formed in an end cap. Sealant may be in the annular slot. The end cap includes an annular groove in an exterior surface of the end cap body portion. A first material layer is formed on an exterior surface of the tubular member. The first material layer includes a first composite material including fibers oriented circumferentially to the tubular member. A second material layer is formed on the first material layer with a portion of the second material layer being disposed into the annular groove, and includes a second composite material including fibers oriented axially to the tubular member. A third material layer is formed adjacent the second material layer and in the annular groove, and includes a third composite material including fibers having an orientation circumferential to the tubular member. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20120000743 | HILL-HOLDER ASSEMBLY FOR A TRANSMISSION - A device operable in a transmission for substantially preventing vehicular rollback on an incline includes a shaft, a gear, a one-way clutch, and a pawl member. The gear is selectively connected for common rotation with the shaft. The gear is rotatable in a first rotary direction and a second rotary direction. The one-way clutch has an inner race and an outer race, where the inner race is connected to the gear and the outer race has an outer surface having a plurality of engaging teeth. The pawl member has a first end and a second end, where the first end is pivotly mounted to a transmission housing. The second end of the pawl has a first angled portion configured to releasably engage at least one of the plurality of engaging teeth of the outer race as the outer race rotates in the second rotary direction. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20120000578 | CAST ALUMINUM ALLOYS - Aluminum alloys having improved properties are provided. The alloy includes about 0 to 2 wt % rare earth elements, about 0.5 to about 14 wt % silicon, about 0.25 to about 2.0 wt % copper, about 0.1 to about 3.0 wt % nickel, approximately 0.1 to 1.0% iron, about 0.1 to about 2.0 wt % zinc, about 0.1 to about 1.0 wt % magnesium, 0 to about 1.0 wt % silver, about 0.01 to about 0.2 wt % strontium, 0 to about 1.0 wt % scandium, 0 to about 1.0 wt % manganese, 0 to about 0.5 wt % calcium, 0 to about 0.5 wt % germanium, 0 to about 0.5 wt % tin, 0 to about 0.5 wt % cobalt, 0 to about 0.2 wt % titanium, 0 to about 0.1 wt % boron, 0 to about 0.2 wt % zirconium, 0 to 0.5% yttrium, 0 to about 0.3 wt % cadmium, 0 to about 0.3 wt % chromium, 0 to about 0.5 wt % indium, and the balance aluminum. Methods of making cast aluminum parts are also described. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20120000189 | ADAPTIVE CONTROL OF SCR UREA INJECTION TO COMPENSATE ERRORS - A method for controlling a selective catalytic reduction injection system having a storage tank, a pump, a delivery line, and an injection nozzle includes monitoring the selective catalytic reduction injection system, determining a selective catalytic reduction injector system effective area ratio, comparing the selective catalytic reduction injector system effective area ratio to a threshold, calculating a compensation factor upon surpassing the threshold, and modifying the commanded injected mass according to the calculated compensation factor. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20120000187 | PARTICULATE FILTER REGENERATION INTERRUPTION SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A regeneration control system for a vehicle includes a regeneration control module and a regeneration interrupt module. The regeneration control module selectively provides fuel to an oxidation catalyst for a regeneration event of a particulate filter that occurs during a predetermined melting period for frozen dosing agent. The regeneration interrupt module selectively interrupts the regeneration event and disables the provision of fuel to the oxidation catalyst before the regeneration event is complete when a temperature of a dosing agent injector that is located between the oxidation catalyst and the particulate filter is greater than a predetermined temperature. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20120000184 | METHOD OF MONITORING SOOT MASS IN A PARTICULATE FILTER AND MONITORING SYSTEM FOR SAME - A method of monitoring soot mass in a particulate filter of an exhaust system includes predicting soot mass in the particulate filter based at least partially on a pressure differential between exhaust flowing into the filter and exhaust flowing out of the filter. The predicted soot mass is then revised based at least partially on measured operating parameters indicative of mass flow rate of nitrogen oxides in exhaust flow of the exhaust system and temperature of the particulate filter. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20120000182 | HYDROCARBON ADSORBER REGENERATION SYSTEM - A regeneration system includes a first module, a mode selection module and an adsorber regeneration control (ARC) module. The first module monitors at least one of (i) a temperature of a first catalyst of a catalyst assembly in an exhaust system of an engine and (ii) an active catalyst volume of the first catalyst. The mode selection module is configured to select an adsorber regeneration mode and generates a mode signal based on the at least one of the temperature and the active catalyst volume. The ARC module at least one of activates an air pump and cranks the engine to regenerate an adsorber of the catalyst assembly while the engine is deactivated based on the mode signal. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20120000180 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PARTICULATE MATTER FILTER REGENERATION USING A CATALYTIC CONVERTER AS A COMBUSTOR - A control system for an engine includes an exhaust module and a combustion module. The exhaust module supplies a first MAF to exhaust produced by the engine upstream of a catalytic converter during regeneration of a PM filter located downstream of the catalytic converter. The combustion module, during the regeneration, supplies a first amount of fuel to a cylinder during an intake stroke based on the first MAF and a second MAF to the cylinder during the intake stroke. The combustion module, during the regeneration, further supplies a second amount of fuel to the cylinder during a subsequent intake stroke based on a first A/F ratio of the cylinder and an oxygen content of the exhaust downstream of the catalytic converter. A method for controlling an engine during regeneration of the PM filter is also provided. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20110320113 | GENERATING DRIVING ROUTE TRACES IN A NAVIGATION SYSTEM USING A PROBABILITY MODEL - A navigation system includes a display screen and a host machine operable for calculating and displaying a recommended travel route within a road network using a Markov or other probability model. The probability model statistically models a distribution pattern of speed or other actual driving behavior within a road network. An input device may record risk aversion of a user, with the host machine calculating the recommended travel route using the risk aversion. The host machine reduces the model to a single cost, and then uses the single cost in a Dijkstra algorithm or other costing function to calculate the recommended travel route. A method of operating the navigation system includes calculating the recommended travel route using a probability model, and displaying the recommended travel route via the display screen. The host machine may calculate the recommended travel route using risk aversion entered via an input device. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110320103 | Exhaust Treatment Methods and Systems - A method of evaluating a particulate filter of an exhaust treatment system is provided. The method includes: selectively enabling at least one of data collection and resistance evaluation based on a particulate matter level in the particulate filter; when data collection is enabled, computing a particulate filter resistance based on a linear regression model; and when resistance evaluation is enabled, evaluating an efficiency of the particulate filter based on the particulate filter resistance. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110320075 | TORQUE BLENDING SYSTEMS FOR HYBRID ELECTRIC VEHICLES WITH ELECTRICALLY CONTINUOUS VARIABLE TRANSMISSIONS - A hybrid control system for a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) includes a hybrid control module. The hybrid control module includes a first motor control module that controls output torque of a first motor. A second motor control module controls output torque of a second motor based on a second motor torque request signal. The second motor torque request signal is generated based on a transmission output torque request signal prior to startup of an engine of the HEV. An override module generates a torque override request signal during the startup. The first motor control module controls output torque of the first motor to crank the engine during the startup. The second motor control module adjusts output torque of the second motor based on the torque override request signal and not the transmission output torque request signal during the startup to minimize vehicle jerk during the engine start. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110318667 | INTEGRATED FUEL CELL ASSEMBLY AND METHOD OF MAKING - An integrated fuel cell assembly is described. The integrated fuel cell assembly includes a polymer membrane; an anode electrode and a cathode electrode on opposite sides of the polymer membrane; a pair of gas diffusion media on opposite sides of the polymer membrane, the gas diffusion media comprising a microporous layer and a gas diffusion layer, the anode electrode and the cathode electrode positioned between the polymer membrane and the pair of gas diffusion media; a subgasket positioned around a perimeter of one of the gas diffusion media, the subgasket defining an active area inside the perimeter, the subgasket having a layer of thermally activated adhesive thereon; and a bipolar plate sealed to the subgasket by the layer of thermally activated adhesive. Methods of making the integrated fuel cell assembly and assembling fuel cell stacks are also described. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110318663 | STACK CATHODE INLET RH (RELATIVE HUMIDITY) CONTROL WITHOUT RH SENSING DEVICE FEEDBACK - A method for controlling relative humidity (RH) of a cathode side of a fuel cell stack in a fuel cell system that includes an RH sensor on a cathode inlet line for providing an RH signal indicative of the RH of cathode inlet air. If the RH sensor is providing a valid RH signal, the RH signal is calculated as an RH average of the cathode inlet air. When the RH sensor is not providing a valid RH signal, the calculated RH average is utilized to control the cathode inlet air RH. If the RH sensor is not providing a valid signal during start-up, then the stack power is temporarily set at an optimum level for a known cathode inlet air RH. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110318632 | BATTERY CELL INTEGRATED MEASUREMENT SENSOR LINE AND EQUALIZATION RESISTOR - A battery cell for an electric vehicle battery pack, including surface-applied wires to facilitate connecting the cell to a controller. Resistive or non-resistive wiring is printed onto or otherwise applied to the outer surface of the battery cell, to eliminate the need for separate jumper wires routed around or through the battery pack. A surface-applied wire is directly connected to each terminal of the battery cell, and each wire is routed on the outer surface of the cell to a location convenient for connecting a cell monitoring controller. The surface-applied wires can be made of a suitable resistive material, such that the resistance of each wire is known and the wires can be used for dissipating power during cell state of charge equalization. An insulating layer can be applied over the surface-applied wire to minimize the risk of short circuit. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110316681 | SHAPE MEMORY POLYMER-BASED HAPTIC DEVICES - A haptic device includes a shape memory polymer member. A plurality of user interface locations is defined on the shape memory polymer member and a plurality of activation elements is located proximate to the plurality of user interface locations. The plurality of user interface locations of the shape memory polymer are activated in response to a stimulus from the plurality of activation elements to alter at least one physical property of the shape memory polymer at the plurality of user interface locations. Additionally, a plurality of control devices configured for adjusting a variable of a system is located proximate to the plurality of user interface locations such that, one of the plurality of control devices may be adjusted when a user touches a corresponding one of the plurality of user interface locations. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110316321 | DEPLOYABLE/STOWABLE SEAT MOUNTED SEAT BELT WEBBING COMFORT GUIDE - A seat belt guide includes a housing defining an interior region, and a guide member at least partially disposed within the interior region. The guide member defines a channel for receiving and guiding a webbing of a seat belt. The guide member is moveable between a stowed position and a deployed position, with the channel concealed when in the stowed position, and the channel exposed when in the deployed position. The guide member includes a base portion and a guide portion, with the guide portion rotatable relative to the base portion to allow for automatic withdrawal of the webbing from the channel when the seat is moved into a position that does not require the use of the seat belt guide. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110315501 | DAMPER ASSEMBLY WITH ENGINE-SIDE COVER PLATE DIRECTLY CONNECTED TO ENGINE CRANKSHAFT AND POWERTRAIN HAVING SAME - The powertrain includes an engine having a crankshaft, and a transmission having a transmission input member. A damper assembly is included that has an engine-side cover plate facing the engine, a transmission-side cover plate facing the transmission, and a retaining member between the cover plates. Resilient members are positioned between the engine-side cover plate and the transmission-side cover plate and supported by the retaining member. The engine-side cover plate is directly connected to the crankshaft for common rotation therewith. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110315127 | LOW PURGE FLOW VEHICLE DIAGNOSTIC TOOL - A vehicle includes an engine, a sealed fuel system having a fuel tank, a canister for storing fuel vapor, a vapor circuit external to the fuel tank, and a control valve. The vapor circuit includes an absolute pressure sensor and a switching valve connecting the fuel tank to the control valve. A controller evaluates or diagnoses a vapor purge function of the sealed fuel system using vacuum measurements from the absolute pressure sensor, executing or diagnosing only when the engine is running, purge is enabled, and the pump is off. The controller diagnoses the vapor purge function by comparing the vacuum measurements to a threshold vacuum. An apparatus includes the vapor circuit and controller. A method for diagnosing the vapor purge function includes actuating the switching valve, measuring a vacuum in the system using the absolute pressure sensor, and comparing the measured vacuum to a threshold vacuum. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110315122 | ENGINE ASSEMBLY INCLUDING FUEL SYSTEM WITH FUEL LINE CONNECTOR - A fuel line may include a hollow elongate body having a first end and a second end. A first sealing member located on the first end of the hollow elongate body may have a monolithic construction and include a base region and a sealing region. The base region may have a first material hardness and the sealing region may have a second material hardness, the second material hardness being less than the first material hardness. A first connector may be coupled with the elongate body and the first connector and the first sealing member may be configured to sealingly connect to a fuel injector. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110315114 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MEASURING ENGINE AIRFLOW - A control system for an engine includes a density determination module and a mass air flow (MAF) determination module. The density determination module determines a density of air in an induction system of the engine based on a temperature of the air, a pressure of the air, and a relative humidity of the air. The MAF determination module, based on the determined density of the air, a velocity of the air, and a cross-sectional area of the induction system, determines a MAF through the induction system. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110315101 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR IMPROVING CHARGED ENGINES - A charged engine may utilize a plurality of independently controllable intake valves for a cylinder of the engine. A method to operate the engine includes monitoring an unmodified timing for the plurality of independently controllable intake valves for the cylinder, monitoring operation of the engine, determining a delayed timing for a first intake valve of the independently controllable intake valves for the cylinder based upon the monitored operation of the engine and the unmodified timing for the plurality of independently controllable intake valves for the cylinder, controlling the first intake valve based upon the determined delayed timing for the first intake valve, and controlling a second intake valve of the independently controllable intake valves for the cylinder based upon the monitored unmodified timing. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110314793 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETERMINING AN AGE OF AND CONTROLLING A SELECTIVE CATALYTIC REDUCTION CATALYST - An exhaust treatment system for exhaust gas produced by an engine includes a condition control module, a load determination module, and an age determination module. The condition control module decreases a load on a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) catalyst below a predetermined load threshold and increases exhaust gas temperature (EGT) to a predetermined temperature. The load determination module increases injection of a dosing agent into the exhaust gas and determines a load on the SCR catalyst when dosing agent is detected downstream from the SCR catalyst. The age determination module determines an age of the SCR catalyst based the determined load and predetermined loads for first and second SCR catalysts, respectively. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110314659 | BALANCE RING FOR A VEHICULAR ELECTRIC MACHINE AND METHODS FOR THE PRODUCTION THEREOF - Methods for fabricating a balance ring for a vehicular electric machine are provided. In one embodiment, the method includes the steps of providing a first metal layer having a first planar surface, providing a second metal layer having a second planar surface, cladding the second planar surface to the first planar surface to form a composite structure, and removing a portion of the composite structure to form an annular ring. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20110313629 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETERMINING VEHICLE SPEED - A system for a vehicle includes a speed determination module, a buffer module, and a speed prediction module. The speed determination module determines changes in measured vehicle speed. The buffer module stores the determined changes in measured vehicle speed. The speed prediction module predicts a speed of the vehicle when the measured vehicle speed is less than a predetermined threshold, wherein the predicted vehicle speed is based on an average of the stored changes in measured vehicle speed. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110313610 | METHOD AND A SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING A DRIVING-RANGE FORECAST FOR A VEHICLE - A method of providing a forecast of a driving-range of a vehicle employing an energy storage device is disclosed. The method includes determining a state of charge (SOC) of the energy storage device, accessing geographical and road map data from a remote source, and calculating a historical average distance traveled by the vehicle per the determined SOC. The method also includes determining an available driving-range according to map data and determined historical average distance traveled by the vehicle per the determined SOC. Furthermore, the method includes charging the energy storage device, establishing a rate of charge of the device, determining a period of time and an increase in the SOC to be achieved during the period of time. The method additionally includes determining incremental change in available driving-range according to geographical and road map data and historical average distance traveled by the vehicle per the predetermined increase in the SOC. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110311894 | USAGE OF REGENERATIVE BRAKE POWER FOR SYSTEM RESTART IN START-STOP OPERATION OF FUEL CELL HYBRID VEHICLES - A system and method are disclosed for using regenerative braking power to start a fuel cell stack for system restart during a start/stop operation of a fuel cell hybrid vehicle. The method includes disconnecting the fuel cell stack from a high voltage bus for the start/stop operation and using regenerative braking power provided by an electric traction system to recharge a battery in the hybrid vehicle during the start/stop operation. The method also includes reconnecting the fuel cell stack to the high voltage bus and providing at least some of the regenerative braking power from the electric traction system to a compressor that provides cathode air to the fuel cell stack when the stack is reconnected to the high voltage bus at the end of the start/stop operation. A bi-directional DC converter selectively distributes the power to the compressor and the battery. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110311420 | SELECTIVE CATALYTIC REDUCTION (SCR) CATALYST DEPLETION CONTROL SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A dosing control system for a vehicle includes a current storage module, an adaption triggering module, and an adaption ending module. The current storage module estimates an amount of ammonia stored by a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) catalyst. The adaptation triggering module triggers a reduction of the amount of ammonia stored by the SCR catalyst to zero when a first amount of nitrogen oxides (NOx) measured by a first NOx sensor located downstream of the SCR catalyst is greater than a predicted value of the first amount of NOx. The adaptation ending module selectively ends the reduction and enables injection of dosing agent based on a comparison of the first amount of NOx with a second amount of NOx upstream of the SCR catalyst. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110309838 | ADAPTIVE BATTERY PARAMETER EXTRACTION AND SOC ESTIMATION FOR LITHIUM-ION BATTERY - A system and method for estimating internal parameters of a lithium-ion battery to provide a reliable battery state-of-charge estimate. The method uses a two RC-pair equivalent battery circuit model to estimate the battery parameters, including a battery open circuit voltage, an ohmic resistance, a double layer capacitance, a charge transfer resistance, a diffusion resistance and a diffusion capacitance. The method further uses the equivalent circuit model to provide a difference equation from which the battery parameters are adapted, and calculates the battery parameters from the difference equation. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110309779 | VEHICULAR ELECTRICAL SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING AN INVERTER DURING MOTOR DECELERATION - Methods and systems for operating an inverter coupled to an electric motor are provided. The inverter has a plurality of high switches and a plurality of low switches coupled to the electric motor. An event indicative of deceleration of the electric motor is detected. The inverter is alternated between a first mode of operation and a second mode of operation during the deceleration of the electric motor. In the first mode of operation, each of the plurality of high switches is activated and each of the plurality of low switches is deactivated. In the second mode of operation, each of the plurality of low switches is activated and each of the plurality of high switches is deactivated. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110309777 | VEHICULAR ELECTRICAL SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING AN INVERTER DURING MOTOR DECELERATION - Methods and systems for operating an inverter having a plurality of high switches and a plurality of low switches coupled to an electric motor are provided. An event indicative of deceleration of the electric motor is detected. The inverter is alternated between a first mode of operation and a second mode of operation during the deceleration of the electric motor. In the first mode of operation, each of the plurality of high switches is activated and each of the plurality of low switches is deactivated or each of the plurality of low switches is activated and each of the plurality of high switches is deactivated. In the second mode of operation, each of the plurality of high switches is deactivated and each of the plurality of low switches is deactivated. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110308911 | TORQUE TRANSMITTING DEVICE WITH APPLY PLATE DRAIN - A torque transmitting device having an apply/return plate or member is provided. The torque transmitting device includes a hydraulically actuated piston and a clutch pack. The plate includes an annular disc having an inner edge and an outer edge and having a first side and a second side. A plurality of tabs extend radially out from the outer edge. A plurality of drain holes are disposed through the annular disc extending between the first side and the second side and located between the outer edge and the inner edge. The plate contacts the clutch pack to engage the clutch pack when translated by the piston and hydraulic or lubrication fluid communicates through the drain holes. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110308763 | FUEL EFFICIENT POWERTRAIN COOLING SYSTEMS AND RADIATOR MODULES - Embodiments of a powertrain cooling system and embodiments of a radiator module are provided for deployment onboard a vehicle. In one embodiment, the powertrain cooling system includes a first airflow path, a second airflow path, a primary radiator core positioned in the first airflow path, an auxiliary radiator core position in the second airflow path, and a first airflow valve positioned in the second airflow path upstream of the auxiliary radiator core. The first airflow valve is movable between a closed position wherein the first airflow valve impedes airflow to the auxiliary radiator core and an open position. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110308736 | Alignment Tool For Replacement Of Ultrasonic Welder Horn - An alignment tool determines the parallelism between the anvil face of an anvil of an ultrasonic welder and the horn faces of a replacement horn mounted on the welder by a rotary mount. The tool includes a tool base having a face plate contacting with the anvil face and a clamp for clamping the tool base on the anvil. A plate member is mounted on the tool base for swiveling movement and contacts the horn faces. Springs urge the plate member into contact with the horn faces while the replacement horn is rotated relative to the anvil. Transducers sense the relative positions between the face plate and the plate member so that the repairman can determine that the replacement horn has been rotated to the desired position in which the horn face has become parallel with the anvil face. Then the replacement horn can then be tightened against further rotation. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110308233 | SELECTIVE CATALYTIC REDUCTION (SCR) CATALYST DEPLETION CONTROL SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A dosing control system for a vehicle includes an adaption triggering module, a dosing management module, and an adaption ending module. The adaptation triggering module triggers performance of an adaptation event when a first amount of nitrogen oxides (NOx) measured by a first NOx sensor located downstream of a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) catalyst is greater than a predicted value of the first amount of NOx. The dosing management module disables dosing agent injection during the adaptation event. The adaptation ending module selectively delays ending the adaptation event after a predetermined number of phases of the adaption event have been completed based on a comparison of the first amount of NOx with a second amount of NOx measured by a second NOx sensor located upstream of the SCR catalyst. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110307250 | Modular Speech Recognition Architecture - A speech recognition system is provided. The speech recognition system includes a speech recognition module; a plurality of domain specific dialog manager modules that communicate with the speech recognition module to perform speech recognition; and a speech interface module that that communicates with the plurality of domain specific dialog manager modules to selectively enable the speech recognition. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110307175 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR COLLISION ASSESSMENT FOR VEHICLES - Methods and systems are provided for assessing a target proximate a vehicle. A location and a velocity of the target are obtained. The location and the velocity of the target are mapped onto a polar coordinate system via a processor. A likelihood that the vehicle and the target will collide is determined using the mapping. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110307118 | Vehicle Aerodynamic Efficiency Advisor Systems and Methods - A method is provided. The method includes estimating aerodynamic efficiency values of a vehicle; comparing the aerodynamic efficiency values to determine vehicle settings; and generating a recommendation based on the at least one of the efficiency values and the vehicle settings. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110306459 | MULTI-SPEED TRANSMISSION HAVING STACKED PLANETARY GEAR SETS - A transmission is has an input member, an output member, two stacked planetary gear sets, a third planetary gear set, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. The stacked planetary gear sets have a first, second, third, fourth and fifth member and the third planetary gear set has a first, second and third member. The torque transmitting devices include clutches and brakes. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110306456 | GEAR TRANSFER DUAL CLUTCH TRANSMISSION - A dual clutch transmission having improved packaging and reduced spin losses provides a five, six or seven forward speeds and reverse. An input shaft includes two or three gears which are in constant mesh with and directly drive associated gears freely disposed on a pair of parallel quills. Synchronizer clutches associated with these driven gears selectively synchronize and connect the gears to the quills which are, in turn, connected to countershafts residing within the quills. Additional gears which are in constant mesh with a pair of ring (output) gears are synchronized and connected to the countershafts by additional synchronizer clutches. Activation of two synchronizer clutches and one input clutch provides a selected gear ratio and transfers torque from the input shaft to the output ring gears. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110304444 | PORTABLE VISION SYSTEM - A method and system for integrating a camera-equipped handheld mobile device with a vehicle's electronic systems, such that the imaging capabilities of the mobile device can be utilized by the vehicle, and information from vehicle's systems can be utilized by the mobile device. The mobile device is placed in a mounting fixture, which can provide power to the mobile device, and is designed to dynamically aim the mobile device's camera based on driving conditions. The mobile device can communicate with the vehicle's systems wirelessly, or via a wired connection. Images from the mobile device's camera are provided to a processor onboard the vehicle, and can be used by vehicle safety and convenience systems. The mobile device can also receive information from the vehicle and use the information in applications on the mobile device. Computing workload can be shared between the vehicle's processor and the mobile device. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110304425 | Systems and Methods for Efficient Authentication - A communication system is configured to operate in an ad hoc wireless network. The communication system includes a transmission device configured to send and receive a message, a signing module configured to generate a hierarchical signature using the message, and a verifying module configured to hierarchically verify a predetermined portion of a hierarchically signed message. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110304165 | Door Rod and Clip Assembly - A door rod and clip assembly for use with a door inner panel of a vehicle door comprising a lock rod and a rod clip. The rod has a first portion attached to a latch assembly and a second portion including a finger pull. The clip is formed of an elastomeric material and includes a retention member that secures the rod clip to the door inner panel, a base portion mounted adjacent to the door inner panel, a pair of support arms extending from the base and defining a receiving slot, and flexible ribs extending from the support arms to define a flexibility slot aligned with the receiving slot. The ribs include corresponding rod retention cutouts that retain the lock rod in a predetermined orientation, whereby the predetermined orientation of the lock rod positions the lock rod for assembly of an interior door trim panel. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110304083 | PROCESS AND APPARATUS FOR FORMING AN INNER VESSEL LINER FOR A PRESSURE VESSEL - A method and apparatus for forming the vessel is disclosed, the vessel having an injection molded interfacial layer formed on a penetrating element and a filament wound outer shell, the interfacial layer coupled to a blow molded inner shell, wherein a portion of the interfacial layer is coupled to the inner shell to facilitate forming a substantially fluid tight connection therebetween. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110303736 | BATTERY TAB JOINT BY REACTION METALLURGY - Copper metal or metal alloy workpieces and/or aluminum metal or metal alloy workpieces are joined in a solid state weld by use of a reactive material placed, in a suitable form, at the joining surfaces. Joining surfaces of the workpieces are pressed against the interposed reactive material and heated. The reactive material alloys or reacts with the workpiece surfaces consuming some of the surface material in forming a liquid-containing reaction product comprising a low melting liquid that removes oxide films and other surface impediments to a welded bond across the interface. Further pressure is applied to expel the reaction product and to join the workpiece surfaces in a solid state weld bond. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110303690 | Fill Pocket Housing Fresh Air Filter Assembly - A fuel venting system for use with a fuel system of a vehicle. The system includes a fill pocket housing including an upper back wall having vent openings allowing fluid flow therethrough. A vent shield extends proximate to the vent openings on a back side of the upper back wall and extends outward away from the upper back wall as the back wall extends downward, with the vent shield also having side walls extending from the back wall to define a bottom opening. A diverter has side walls mounted to the upper back wall and a back wall extending between the side walls to surround the vent shield to form a gap between the diverter walls and the vent shield to receive a filter therein. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110303497 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING VEHICLE BRAKING - Methods and systems for controlling braking in a vehicle are provided, for example in a vehicle in which regenerative braking is provided using a motor capable of providing regenerative braking on one axle or wheel that does not have a friction brake component. If it is determined that the energy storage system of the vehicle cannot accept additional electrical energy created by the regenerative braking, the electrical energy is transferred to another location such as a motor on another axle or wheel, resulting in a propulsion torque on that axle. In order to maintain the total desired braking consistent with the driver command, friction braking is provided on the axle the regenerative braking energy is transferred to using a friction braking component, based in part upon the amount of propulsion torque, when the energy storage system cannot accept additional electrical energy. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110303308 | Collapsible Underhood Container - A collapsible underhood container for mounting under a vehicle hood with a portion of the collapsible underhood container extending into an area between the hood and an underhood safety plane when in an extended position, the container comprising: a lower housing, an upper container portion and a locking feature. The lower housing is fixed relative to the vehicle and has a bottom and side walls. The upper container portion has walls adjacent to and telescopically slidable on the side walls of the lower housing and a top, with the top located in the area between the hood and the safety plane. The locking feature maintains the upper container relative to the lower housing when in the extended position and releases the upper container portion to slide downward relative to the lower housing to a collapsed position when the hood contacts the upper container. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110303049 | ELECTRO-HYDRAULIC AND ELECTRO-MECHANICAL CONTROL SYSTEM FOR A DUAL CLUTCH TRANSMISSION - A control system for controlling a dual clutch transmission having a synchronizer assembly includes a motor for selectively providing an output torque in a first and second to both of a first and a second output member. A one-way device is interconnected to the first output member and is operable to transmit the output torque in the first rotational direction. A pump is connected to the one-way device. A disconnect device is interconnected to the second output member. The torque disconnect device is operable to decouple the motor from a cam or a torque multiplication device. The cam includes at least one groove having a configuration corresponding to synchronizer assembly positions. A shift fork is disposed in the groove and is operable to translate the synchronizer assembly. Rotation of the cam translates the shift fork and the synchronizer assembly between at least a neutral position and an engaged position. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110303033 | GEAR SELECTOR APPARATUS AND CONTROL FOR A VEHICLE TRANSMISSION - A gear selector apparatus for a transmission having a first gear and a second gear selectively engageable to a shaft through a synchronizer. The gear selector apparatus includes a hydraulic actuator, a gear selection fork engaged with the actuator, a guide bar fixed for common movement to the gear selection fork, a detent mechanism disposed in contact with a first edge of the guide bar, a position sensor disposed in contact with a second edge of the guide bar, a first and a second pressure control valve in communication with the hydraulic actuator, a controller in electrical communication with the position sensor and the first and second pressure control valve. The controller includes a control logic sequence. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110303017 | INTEGRATION OF STRAIN GAUGES AT INNER- AND OUTER LINER OF A HIGH PRESSURE TANK TO INDICATE DISCHARGE LIMIT POINT - A high pressure tank that has particular application for storing hydrogen gas on a vehicle for a fuel cell system. The tank includes a gas tight inner liner layer and a fiber bundle outer composite structural layer. A first strain gauge is provided in the outer layer and a second strain gauge is provided in the inner liner layer both proximate a transition between the layers. The strain gauges are calibrated relative to each other to identify the pressure where the inner liner layer begins to shrink and separate from the outer composite layer. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110302993 | FUNCTION TEST OF FUEL CELL EXHAUST GAS STREAM HYDROGEN SENSOR BY GENERATING DEFINED HYDROGEN PULSES WHILE DRIVING AND AT REGULAR SERVICE WITH FUEL CELL SYSTEM IMMANENT DEVICES - A system and method for determining whether a hydrogen concentration sensor in the exhaust of a fuel cell system is operating properly during operation of the system. The method includes injecting hydrogen gas pulses from an injector directly into the system exhaust and analyzing a sensor response from those hydrogen injection pulses. Alternately, pulses from anode purges or bleeds can be provided to the exhaust to determine sensor response. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110302933 | STORAGE AND SUPPLY SYSTEM OF LIQUEFIED AND CONDENSED HYDROGEN - A hydrogen storage and supply system comprises a storage vessel containing a liquefied or condensed hydrogen in sufficient contact with a catalyst inside the vessel. The storage vessel comprises an inner tank, an outer jacket, a vacuum insulation between said inner tank and outer jacket, and a catalyst disposed inside the inner tank, wherein the catalyst is capable of converting para-hydrogen to ortho-hydrogen at temperatures between about 20° K to about 80° K. A process of storing and supplying hydrogen using the system is also disclosed. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110302755 | METHOD FOR REPAIRING SELF-PIERCING RIVETED WORKPIECES - A method is disclosed for repairing a workpiece having two metal components riveted together. The workpiece has a discrepant joint caused by an improperly-installed-self-piercing rivet. The method includes, but is not limited to providing a repair rivet, positioning the repair rivet proximate the discrepant joint such that the repair rivet is substantially aligned with the improperly-installed-self-piercing rivet, and installing the repair rivet at substantially a same location on the workpiece as the improperly-installed-self-piercing rivet without removing the improperly-installed-self-piercing rivet. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110302472 | CONFIGURABLE TEST SUITE - A system and method for testing a control module includes a microprocessor, where the microprocessor has a programming environment. The programming environment has a test data structure, a configuration data structure, and a monitor data structure each containing data. At least one test data instance is associated with the test data structure and at least one configuration data instance is associated with the configuration data structure. The configuration data instance is a diagnostic test that monitors a parameter of the microprocessor, and the monitor data structure creates the test data instance such that each test data instance corresponds to one of the configuration data instances. The program includes a first control logic for associating the test data structure, the configuration data structure and the monitor data structure as part of a core infrastructure portion of the programming environment, where the core infrastructure portion of the program is static. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110301830 | GEOMETRICALLY CONSTRAINING A TRAVEL ROUTE USING A NAVIGATION SYSTEM - A navigation system for use with a geospatial database includes a presentation device and a host machine in communication with the database. The host machine executes an algorithm to calculate a geometrically-constrained auxiliary travel route between a route origin and a route destination using mapping data from the geospatial database and a reference geometric path, wherein the auxiliary travel route is geometrically-constrained by minimizing a cost of deviating from the reference geometric path. The host machine then presents information describing the auxiliary travel route using the presentation device. The geometric path may be one of a straight line, an arc, and a set of road segments having a predetermined geometric feature. The cost of deviating includes at least one of a distance of deviating from the reference geometric path, and a number of crossings or switchbacks of the auxiliary travel route with respect to the reference geometric path. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110301809 | TOUCH SENSITIVE CONTROL FOR A LATCH MECHANISM - A seat assembly includes a first member. There is a second member located proximate to the first member. A latch mechanism is located between the first member and the second member and is configured to selectively prevent movement of the second member relative to the first member. A latch release switch is positioned on the seat assembly and is configured to send a first signal when a user applies an adjustment force at a seat adjustment location. A controller is connected to the latch release switch and a latch release actuator and is configured to receive the first signal from the latch release switch and in response to generate an activation signal. The latch release actuator is activated in response to the activation signal to move the latch mechanism to a released position to allow relative movement between the first member and the second member. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110301791 | ELECTRIC LAUNCH OF A HYBRID VEHICLE HAVING A BELT ALTERNATOR STARTER AND A DUAL CLUTCH TRANSMISSION - A controller-executable method provides an electric-only (EV) launch mode in a vehicle having an accelerator pedal, an engine, a motor generator unit (MGU), a dual-clutch transmission (DCT), and a belt alternator starter system adapted for selectively rotating the crankshaft using motor torque from the MGU. Execution of the method uses motor torque from the MGU, while the engine is off, to accelerate the crankshaft to above a calibrated launch speed when a threshold minimum force is applied to the pedal. A designated one of the odd- and even-gear clutches of the DCT are controlled until input torque to the DCT equals a calibrated level. The other DCT clutch may be modulated to dampen drivetrain oscillations. The vehicle launches in the EV launch mode via the designated DCT clutch when the crankshaft speed exceeds an input speed of the DCT. The vehicle and controller are also provided. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110301790 | OPTIMIZING USE OF SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC-GENERATED ELECTRICITY IN ELECTRIC OR HYBRID VEHICLES - An electric or hybrid-electric vehicle is provided with vehicle-mounted solar cells capable of generating electrical power. The power from the array is directed to vehicle systems according to a pre-determined algorithm intended to most effectively extend the vehicle range when operated under electric power. Power from the solar cells is directed by a controller, and may be applied to directly charge the batteries or to power electric power receiving devices, for example, to control cabin temperatures, depending on factors including the state of charge of the batteries, whether or not, the vehicle is parked and the current cabin temperature. The controller is also capable of controlling and managing the operating voltage of the solar cells to ensure optimal power extraction from the cells. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110300990 | ELECTRIC TORQUE CONVERTER WITH DUAL-DRIVEN MAIN PUMP - A vehicle includes an electric motor/generator unit (MGU), an internal combustion engine, a transmission having an input member rotatable by the engine or the MGU, and an electric torque converter assembly. The torque converter assembly has a pump in driving connection with the transmission, a braking clutch assembly for selectively connecting the engine to a stationary member, a lockup clutch, and a dual-pinion planetary gear set. The electric torque converter assembly allows inertia torque from the MGU to transfer through the gear set to assist engine cranking when the MGU is decelerating. The pump is driven by the faster of the engine and MGU via the gear set and selective engagement, alone or in combination, of the lockup clutch and braking clutch assembly. An electric torque converter configured as noted above is also provided, and may include an electrically-actuated band for grounding the engine during certain operating modes. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110300986 | MULTI-SPEED TRANSMISSION HAVING TWO PLANETARY GEAR SETS - A transmission is provided having an input member, an output member, two planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes first, second and third members. The torque transmitting devices include clutches and brakes. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110299981 | Induction System with Air Flow Rotation and Noise Absorber for Turbocharger Applications - An air induction system consisting of a cylindrical main flow tube, a helical vane disposed within the main flow tube, and, preferably, a noise absorbing perforated tube disposed within the main flow tube in concentric relation to the helical vane. The twist direction of the helical vane provides air flow rotation in the same direction of rotation as the turbine wheel. The helical vane causes noise reflection and enhancement of noise attenuation by the perorated tube and its adjoining one or more acoustic cavities. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110298678 | In-vehicle antenna system and method - An antenna system connectable to a vehicle includes an exterior antenna, an interior antenna, and a data transmission line. The vehicle has a wall including an outer surface and an inner surface that generally opposes the outer surface, where the inner surface and the outer surface cooperate together to create an aperture. The wall defines an exterior environment and an interior cabin. The exterior antenna is located within the exterior environment and is connectable to the vehicle. The interior antenna is located within the interior cabin defined. The data transmission line transmits RF signals and is in communication with both the exterior antenna and the interior antenna. The transmission line passes through the aperture located in the plate between the exterior antenna and the interior antenna. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110298677 | IN-VEHICLE ANTENNA SYSTEM AND METHOD - An antenna system connectable to a vehicle includes an exterior antenna and an interior antenna. The vehicle has a wall including an outer surface and an inner surface generally opposing the outer surface. The inner surface and the outer surface cooperate together to create an aperture. The wall defines an exterior environment and an interior cabin of the vehicle. The exterior antenna is disposed on the outer surface of the wall, where the exterior antenna transmits and receives RF signals to and from an external RF device that is located in the exterior environment. The interior antenna is located within the interior cabin defined by the inner surface of the wall. The interior antenna receives and transmits RF signals to and from an interior RF device located within the interior cabin. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110298640 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CALCULATING AND DISPLAYING TRAVEL RANGE INFORMATION - A display system for a vehicle includes a display screen and host machine operable for calculating a maximum theoretical range for a predetermined criterion, formulating a value function for each point in the maximum theoretical range, and calculating a solution to each of the value functions. The method also includes forming a polygon or a closed curve from the mathematical hull of all points in the maximum theoretical range having a value function solution less than corresponding limit, and displaying a perimeter of the closed curve via the display screen to indicate the effective range of the vehicle for the criterion. A vehicle includes an energy storage system, a motor/generator unit for propelling the vehicle in an electric-only (EV) mode, the display screen, and host machine, wherein the criterion is the EV mode. A method of operating the display system is also disclosed herein. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110298331 | ELECTRIC MACHINE - An electric machine having a stator body and a machine housing is provided. The stator body includes a stator ring of generally annular shape and a plurality of stator teeth projecting radially inward. A first bolt hole is defined in either the stator ring or machine housing, and a first receptacle is defined in the other and is coaxial with the first bolt hole. A second bolt hole is defined in either the stator ring or machine housing, and a second receptacle is defined in the other and is coaxial with the second bolt hole. A first counter bore is coaxial with the first receptacle. A first hollow dowel is mated to the first counter bore and the first bolt hole, and defines a first dowel hole, which is coaxial with the first counter bore and the first bolt hole. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110298327 | FLUX-CONCENTRATING STATOR ASSEMBLY - A stator assembly for an electric motor includes an annular core centered about an axis of rotation of an inner rotor which the stator assembly surrounds. The stator assembly has a plurality of electrical windings, each wound in a respective spiral around the outer surface of the core and arranged for current to flow in the windings. In some embodiments, the respective spirals are spaced from and parallel with one another. The stator assembly may have pole pieces that substantially enclose the core and windings. The pole pieces may be configured to taper both radially outward and axially inward to thereby concentrate flux from the core to an inner surface of the pole pieces facing the rotor. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110297879 | PACKAGED REACTIVE MATERIALS AND METHOD FOR MAKING THE SAME - A packaged reactive material includes a reactive material that is configured to increase in size when exposed to a predetermined gas, and an inert coating material surrounding a surface of the reactive material. The inert coating material is configured to allow the predetermined gas to diffuse through to the reactive material and has an elongation that will not accommodate expansion of the reactive material at full saturation of the predetermined gas. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110297661 | DEFROSTING, DEFOGGING AND DE-ICING STRUCTURES - Defrosting, defogging, and de-icing structures are disclosed herein. An example of the structure includes at least one optically transparent member, at least one electrical strip extending along the at least one surface of the at least one optically transparent member; and an optically transparent composite established on at least the at least one surface of the at least one optically transparent member. The composite is in thermal communication with the at least one electrical strip. The composite includes a matrix, and a predetermined amount of graphene. The predetermined amount is based upon a predetermined transparency for the structure and a predetermined thermal conductivity of the structure. Furthermore, the structure is configured such that the graphene functions as a thermal conductor for substantially uniform heating of the composite and not an electrical conductor. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110297499 | WET DUAL CLUTCH TRANSMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM - A high efficiency hydraulic control system for a wet dual clutch transmission includes an engine driven hydraulic pump. A first pair of variable feed solenoid valves independently and mutually exclusively provide hydraulic fluid to a respective pair of main or input clutch actuators. A second pair of variable feed solenoid valves provide hydraulic fluid to a pair of inlet ports of a first spool or logic valve. The position of the spool of the first logic valve is controlled by an on-off solenoid valve. A first pair of outlet ports of the first logic valve selectively provide hydraulic fluid to a first three area piston which selects two gear or speed ratios, for example, reverse and third gear. A second pair of outlet ports of the first logic valve selectively provide hydraulic fluid to a pair of inlet ports of a second spool or logic valve. The position of the spool of the second logic valve is controlled by hydraulic fluid from the input clutch circuits. A first pair of ports of the second logic valve selectively provide hydraulic fluid to a second three area piston which selects two other gear or speed ratios, for example, first and fifth gears and a second pair of ports of the second logic valve selectively provide hydraulic fluid to a third three area piston which selects two additional gear or speed ratios, for example, second and fourth gears. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110297495 | FRICTION BRAKE COMPONENT AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A ferritically nitrocarburized rotational member of a vehicle brake is disclosed, including a rotational member having a friction surface configured for braking engagement with a corresponding friction material. A compound zone is disposed at the friction surface. An exposed surface of the compound zone is exposed to an atmosphere. The area of the exposed surface includes from about 0 percent to about 14 percent graphite. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110297491 | BRAKE ASSEMBLY - A brake assembly includes a brake pad, a bracket supporting the brake pad and having a first portion, a second portion spaced apart from the first portion, and a linkage interconnecting the first and second portions. The linkage is configured to transfer tensile loads between the first and second portion, but is characterized by the absence of any bending modes. The absence of bending modes prevents excitation of the linkage, thereby reducing sound generated during application of the brake assembly. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110297466 | LOW CONTENT EXTENDED-RANGE ELECTRIC VEHICLE POWERTRAIN - An extended-range electric vehicle includes drive wheels, an engine having an output shaft, a planetary gear set having a node driven by the output shaft of the engine when the engine is on, and first and second electric machines. The first electric machine is connected to another node, and operates as a generator when the engine is on. A one-way clutch is connected to the remaining node. The second electric machine is connected to an output side of the one-way clutch, with a shaft connecting the drive wheels to the second electric machine. A controller provides a forward electric-only (EV) mode, a reverse EV mode, power-split mode(s), and series mode(s). The series mode(s) provide a direct mechanical path between the engine and drive wheels, with the one-way clutch overrunning in the forward EV mode. The one-way clutch may be activated passively or by a PRNDL device. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110297261 | WATER VAPOR TRANSFER ASSEMBLY - A water vapor transfer assembly for a fuel cell system includes at least one water vapor transfer device. The water vapor transfer device permits a transfer of water from a wet stream to a dry stream. The water vapor transfer device is disposed between a pair of end plates. The end plates each have a plurality of outwardly extending ribs. The water vapor transfer device and the end plates are disposed within a housing having a pair of wet stream apertures and a pair of dry stream apertures formed therein. The housing further includes a plurality of channels formed adjacent the dry stream apertures. The channels are in fluid communication with the wet stream apertures. The outwardly extending ribs of the end plates cooperate with the channels to define a tortuous bypass flow path between the wet stream apertures of the housing. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110297204 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR OPTIMIZING THE USE OF SOLAR ELECTRICAL POWER - A method for optimizing the use of solar electrical power is disclosed. An operating voltage is determined for a process and at least a second process. The process is selectively connected to a portion of a photovoltaic array having a maximum power point voltage matching the operating voltage of the process. The at least a second process is selectively connected to a respective at least a second portion of the photovoltaic array having a maximum power point voltage matching the operating voltage of the at least a second process. The photovoltaic array has an available amount of electrical power that is distributed to the process and the at least a second process. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110297203 | FORMATION OF THERMOELECTRIC ELEMENTS BY NET SHAPE SINTERING - Practices are described for preparing fine-grain, stress-tolerant, brittle, doped semiconductor thermoelectric elements better suited to withstand thermal and mechanical loads without cracking or fracture. Preparation entails net shape powder processing of substantially isotropic thermoelectric compounds such as skutterudites under conditions which promote reduction of the largest grain sizes in a grain size distribution. Nearly three-fold improvements in fracture strength over conventionally-processed thermoelectric elements are observed. The net shape powder processing is adapted for the ready incorporation of the net shape thermoelectric elements into a thermoelectric device. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110296942 | GEAR SELECTOR SYSTEM - A gear selector assembly for selecting a gear position of a transmission includes an internal mode switch having detent lever, a plurality of magnetic field sensors, a control module, a first power supply and a second power supply. The detent lever has a plurality of detents and a magnetized track, where the magnetized track includes a plurality of magnetized elements that are indicative a particular gear selector position. The magnetic field sensors are associated with each of the magnetized elements for sensing changes in a magnetic field of the magnetized track. The control module is in communication with each of the field sensors. Each of the field sensors sends an output current to the control module and the value of the output current is variable. The value of the output current is indicative of at least one of the following: the direction of the magnetic field from the corresponding magnetic track, a short circuit, and an open circuit. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110296820 | ENGINE EXHAUST GAS TREATMENT DEVICE INCLUDING ELECTRICALLY ACTUATED HYDROCARBON ADSORBER BYPASS VALVE - An engine exhaust gas treatment device may include a housing, a hydrocarbon adsorber, an adsorber bypass passage, and a bypass valve assembly. The hydrocarbon adsorber may be located within the housing and may define a first flow path between an exhaust gas inlet and an exhaust gas outlet of the housing. The adsorber bypass passage may define a second flow path between the exhaust gas inlet and the exhaust gas outlet. The bypass valve assembly may include a bypass valve and an electric actuation mechanism engaged with the bypass valve. The bypass valve may be displaceable between open and closed positions by the electric actuation mechanism. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110296814 | COLD START HYDROCARBON EMISSION REDUCTION CONTROL STRATEGY FOR ACTIVE HYDROCARBON ADSORBER - A control system may include an adsorber bypass evaluation module, an adsorber bypass control module and an engine operation control module. The adsorber bypass evaluation module may evaluate a bypass closing criterion of a hydrocarbon adsorber bypass passage in an engine exhaust gas treatment device after an engine key-on condition. The adsorber bypass control module may be in communication with the adsorber bypass evaluation module and may close the hydrocarbon adsorber bypass passage after the key-on condition when the bypass closing criterion meets a predetermined condition. The engine operation control module may be in communication with the adsorber bypass control module and may start the engine after the closing. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110295495 | INTAKE MANIFOLD REFILL AND HOLDING CONTROL SYSTEMS AND METHODS - An engine control system for an auto-stop/start vehicle includes an auto-stop/start module and an actuator control module. The auto-stop/start module selectively generates an auto-stop command for shutting down an engine while an ignition is in an ON state. The actuator control module disables fuel to the engine when the auto-stop command is generated and closes a throttle valve to a predetermined throttle opening when the auto-stop command is generated. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110295494 | CONTROLLED ENGINE SHUTDOWN SYSTEM FOR A STOP-START SYSTEM AND A HYBRID ELECTRIC VEHICLE - An engine system includes a stop-start module that generates a shut down signal to shut down an engine. A friction module that generates a friction signal based on the engine shut down signal. The friction signal indicates an estimate of a sum of friction forces between components of the engine. A position module estimates a position of the engine and generates a position signal. An energy module estimates kinetic energy of the engine based on the friction signal and the position signal. A cylinder deactivation module stops the engine based on the kinetic energy in at least one of (i) a predetermined position and (ii) a predetermined range. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110295489 | SELECTIVE CYLINDER DISABLEMENT CONTROL SYSTEMS AND METHODS - An engine control system for an auto-stop/start vehicle includes a mode control module and an actuator control module. The mode control module selectively initiates an engine startup event when an engine startup command is generated. The actuator control module cranks an engine during the engine startup event, provides fuel to a first cylinder of the engine while the engine is being cranked, and selectively disables fuel to a second cylinder of the engine while the engine is being cranked. The second cylinder is after the first cylinder in a firing order. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110295488 | CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR LOW QUANTITY FUEL INJECTION - A control system for an engine includes a parameter determination module and a period determination module. The parameter determination module determines a first fuel injection parameter based on a rate of change of a quantity of fuel injected during a period, and determines a second fuel injection parameter based on an initial quantity of fuel injected during the period. The period determination module determines a desired fuel injection period based on a desired fuel injection quantity, the first and second fuel injection parameters, and at least one of mass air flow (MAF) rate, intake air temperature (IAT), fuel injector pressure (FIP), engine coolant temperature (ECT), and exhaust gas air/fuel (A/F) ratio. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110295487 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR IMPROVED TRANSITIONS BETWEEN ENGINE COMBUSTION MODES - A control system for a homogeneous charge compression ignition (HCCI) engine includes a timing adjustment module and a combustion control module. The timing adjustment module, per combustion event, advances timings of N fuel injections and retards timings of M fuel injections and spark during a transition from HCCI combustion to mixed-mode combustion. The combustion control module subsequently retards the timings of the N fuel injections and advances the timings of the M fuel injections and the spark to desired timings, respectively, wherein the N fuel injections and the M fuel injections occur sequentially during each combustion event of the HCCI engine, and wherein N and M are integers greater than or equal to zero. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110295474 | TRANSMISSION LOAD PREDICTING SYSTEM FOR A STOP-START SYSTEM AND A HYBRID ELECTRIC VEHICLE - An engine system of a vehicle includes an engine torque module. The engine torque module determines an engine output torque profile including predicted torque outputs based on an accelerator signal and an engine state variable. A load control module determines a dynamic transmission load profile based on the engine output torque profile and an engine speed profile. The dynamic transmission load profile includes transmission loads as a function of engine speed during an auto-start of an engine. A compensation module generates a torque compensation signal based on the dynamic transmission load profile. An actuator module compensates for a change in a transmission load based on the torque compensation signal and during a transition of the engine from a cranking state to an idle state. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110295472 | CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ADAPTIVE CONTROL OF TRANSMISSION FLUID OPERATING PRESSURES - A control system for a transmission includes a pressure control module and a pressure adapt module. The pressure control module operates a hydraulic control system of the transmission at a target pressure during steady-state operation of the transmission. The target pressure is based on first and second learned pressures for different predetermined first and second torque ranges. The pressure adapt module selectively adjusts at least one of the first learned pressure and the second learned pressure based on a first pressure at which a slip condition of the transmission occurs. The first and second learned pressures define a learned pressure gain and offset. When adjusting the first and second learned pressures, the pressure adapt module limits increases and decreases in the learned pressure gain offset based on a predetermined pressure gain and offset. A method is also provided. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110295464 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR A VEHICLE EMERGENCY CONTROL SYSTEM - A vehicle control system defines a set of predetermined criteria relating to the motion of the vehicle and a set of vehicle actions associated with the set of predetermined criteria. The vehicle actions each specify a steering action and/or a braking action. Friction data indicative of a frictional attribute (for example, coefficient of friction) of the contact region between the vehicle and the surface is received. The predetermined criteria are modified based on the friction data. When one or more of the predetermined criteria are met, the system applies the corresponding steering and/or braking actions. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110295459 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MONITORING A STARTER MOTOR FOR AN INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE - A method for monitoring a starter motor for an internal combustion engine includes calculating a first engine power during a starting event based on an electric power flow from the battery to the starter motor, calculating a second engine power during the starting event based on an engine kinetic energy, and detecting a fault associated with the starter motor as a function of the difference between the first engine power and the second engine power. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110295419 | APPLYING WORKSPACE LIMITATIONS IN A VELOCITY-CONTROLLED ROBOTIC MECHANISM - A robotic system includes a robotic mechanism responsive to velocity control signals, and a permissible workspace defined by a convex-polygon boundary. A host machine determines a position of a reference point on the mechanism with respect to the boundary, and includes an algorithm for enforcing the boundary by automatically shaping the velocity control signals as a function of the position, thereby providing smooth and unperturbed operation of the mechanism along the edges and corners of the boundary. The algorithm is suited for application with higher speeds and/or external forces. A host machine includes an algorithm for enforcing the boundary by shaping the velocity control signals as a function of the reference point position, and a hardware module for executing the algorithm. A method for enforcing the convex-polygon boundary is also provided that shapes a velocity control signal via a host machine as a function of the reference point position. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110294318 | VARIABLE GROUNDING PLUG DESIGN FOR CONTINENTAL EUROPE - An electrical plug for charging a vehicle is provided. The electrical plug has variable grounding and includes a plug body and a collar configured to selectively adjust between a first and second position along the plug body to selectively expose a face portion of the electrical plug. The electrical plug further includes a first electrical prong and a second electrical prong extending from the face portion, the first and second electrical prong enable current transmission. The electrical plug further includes a plurality of grounding mechanisms compatible with a plurality of receptacles respectively, each of the plurality of grounding mechanisms provide a connection to ground. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110294037 | ELECTRODE CONTAINING NANOSTRUCTURED THIN CATALYTIC LAYERS AND METHOD OF MAKING - A method of making an electrode is provided. The method includes providing an electrocatalyst decal comprising a carrying substrate having a nanostructured thin catalytic layer thereon; providing a transfer substrate with an adjacent adhesive layer; adhering the nanostructured thin catalytic layer adjacent to the adhesive layer to form a composite structure; removing the carrying substrate from the composite structure; and removing the transfer substrate from the composite structure to form the stand-alone nanostructured thin catalytic film comprising the adhesive layer with the nanostructured thin catalytic layer adhered thereto. A stand alone nanostructured thin catalytic film and methods of constructing electrodes with the stand alone nanostructured thin catalytic films are also described. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110294032 | WATER VAPOR TRANSFER MEMBRANE ATTACHMENT TO GAS DIFFUSION SEPARATORS - A water vapor transfer device for a fuel cell includes a pair of diffusion medium layers, a pair of edge strips, an array of elongate cords, and a pair of polymer membranes. One of the edge strips is disposed between the first edges of the diffusion medium layers. Another of the edge strips is disposed adjacent the second edge of each of the diffusion medium layers. The edge strips are bonded to each of the diffusion medium layers with a hot-melt adhesive. The elongate cords are disposed between the diffusion medium layers and intermediate the edge strips. The elongate cords are bonded to each of the diffusion medium layers with a hot-melt adhesive and define a plurality of flow channels between the diffusion medium layers. The polymer membranes are bonded to the diffusion medium layers adjacent the edge strips with the hot-melt adhesive from the edge strips. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110293992 | BATTERY CONNECTION TOPOLOGY - A battery module comprising a plurality of battery cells arranged in a stacked configuration, each of the battery cells including a first terminal disposed on a first end of the battery cell and a second terminal disposed on a second end of the battery cell, wherein the first terminal of at least one of the battery cells is in direct electrical communication with the second terminal of another non-adjacent one of the battery cells. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110293984 | Enhanced high voltage terminal cooling with a high thermal conductivity coating - A battery cell pack having improved heat transfer is described. In one embodiment, the battery cell pack includes a plurality of battery cells, each battery cell having an anode foil and a cathode foil; a pair of taps, the first tap attached to the anode foil and the second tap attached to the cathode foil; wherein at least one battery cell has a high thermal conductivity coating on at least one side of the anode foil, or the cathode foil, or both; or at least one of the taps has a high thermal conductivity coating on at least one side; or both. Methods of improving the heat transfer of battery cell packs are also described. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110293983 | STACKABLE REPEATING FRAME WITH INTEGRATED CELL SENSING CONNECTION - A module for a battery pack includes a cooling frame and a spacer frame. At least one of the first and second surfaces of the cooling frame is adapted to transfer heat to a coolant flow. A first battery cell having first and second electrically conductive tabs abuts a cooling frame member first surface. A second end of the cooling frame member includes a connection terminal for electrically connecting to the first electrically conductive tab. A spacer frame member first surface abuts the first battery cell, and a second surface abuts a second battery cell. A first end of the spacer frame member includes a connection terminal for electrically connecting to the second electrically conductive tab of the first battery cell and the first electrically conductive tab of the second battery cell. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110293982 | CORRUGATED FIN AND FRAME ASSEMBLY FOR BATTERY COOLING - A cooling module for a battery pack assembly is disclosed. The cooling module includes a frame having a plurality of legs forming an opening through a central portion of the frame, at least one of the plurality of legs including a slot formed therethrough. A cooling fin is coupled to the frame. The cooling fin includes a corrugated plate interposed between a first plate and a second plate forming a plurality of fluid flow channels between the first plate and the second plate. The cooling modules are disposed in a stack having at least one battery cell disposed between adjacent cooling modules. The battery cell is in heat transfer communication with the cooling fin of at least one cooling module, wherein the cooling fin facilitates a transfer of heat energy between the battery cell and the flow channels formed in the cooling fin. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110293682 | SELF-TRIGGERED MICROENCAPSULATED BIOCIDES AND/OR FUNGICIDES - One embodiment includes a biocide-containing and/or fungicide-containing microcapsule wherein the microcapsule may be capable of degradation due to the presence of byproducts that are released by a fungi or biological organism. Upon release, the biocide and/or fungicide may then be utilized to eliminate the fungi or biological organism. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110293385 | VEHICLE ADAPTED TO CARRY ELONGATE CARGO - A vehicle adapted to carry elongate cargo includes, but is not limited to, a body having a cargo support surface having a first opening. A first support member is housed within the first opening and is configured to move inwardly and outwardly with respect to the first opening. A first restraining member is connected to the first support member and oriented generally transversely thereto. The first restraining member is configured to move towards and away from the cargo support surface as the first support member moves inwardly and outwardly with respect to the first opening, and to compress the elongate cargo against the cargo support surface. The body is configured to engage the first support member and to inhibit the first support member from moving away from the body. The first restraining member and the cargo support surface cooperate to restrain the elongate cargo. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110291662 | METHOD AND APPARATUS TO MONITOR ELECTRIC ISOLATION OF A HIGH-VOLTAGE DIRECT CURRENT ELECTRICAL CIRCUIT - An electrically isolated high-voltage direct-current electric circuit is monitored. Electrical signals are periodically sampled, and ground isolation indexes are calculated. A trend corresponding to trend elements is characterized. The characterized trend is compared with an expected trend with deviations indicative of potential faults. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110291521 | STATOR FOR AN INDUCTION MOTOR - A substantially hollow cylindrical stator core having a longitudinal axis includes a plurality of winding slots longitudinally parallel with the longitudinal axis each having first and second ends wherein the slots taper progressively larger closer to the ends of the slots. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110291517 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR FABRICATING A ROTOR FOR AN INDUCTION MOTOR - A method for forming a rotor for an induction motor includes providing a rotor core including a plurality of conductor bar grooves having first and second ends corresponding to first and second ends of the rotor core wherein the conductor bar grooves are progressively larger closer to the ends of the conductor bar grooves. The rotor core is placed into a casting mold, and molten metal is introduced into a first end of the casting mold. The molten metal flows from the first end of the casting mold through the plurality of conductor bar grooves to a second end of the casting mold. The molten metal solidifies to form conductor bars in the plurality of conductor bar grooves and to form shorting rings across exterior portions of the end elements within the first and second ends of the casting mold. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110291475 | VEHICULAR ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS - Vehicular electrical systems are provided. The vehicular electrical systems include a first direct current (DC) voltage supply, a second DC voltage supply coupled to the first DC voltage supply, a first direct current-to-direct current (DC/DC) power converter coupled to the first and second DC voltage supplies, a second DC/DC power converter coupled to first and second DC voltage supplies and the first DC/DC power converter, and a power receptacle electrically connected to the second DC/DC power converter. The second DC/DC power converter is configured to regulate power flow between the first and second voltage supplies and the power receptacle. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110290602 | INTERCONNECTION FOR CAST-IN-PLACE COMPONENTS - A first component may be made of a first material and may have a flange extending away from a body of the first component. The flange may have a groove located in an upper surface, a lower surface, or both the upper and lower surfaces of the flange. A second component may be made of a second material that may be different than the first material. The second component may have a portion located over a part or more of the flange and over the groove in order to form an interconnection between the first and second components. One of the first component or the second component being cast-in-place. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110290224 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING EXHAUST GAS RECIRCULATION SYSTEMS - A control system for an engine includes a feedback determination module, a feed-forward determination module, and a valve control module. The feedback determination module generates an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) feedback value based on engine speed and a difference between desired and measured combustion phasing. The feed-forward determination module generates an EGR feed-forward value based on a difference between desired and measured mass air flow (MAF) rates. The valve control module controls an EGR valve based on the EGR feedback and feed-forward values, an intake manifold absolute pressure (MAP), an engine speed, and an exhaust back pressure (EBP). | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110290214 | ENGINE SPEED CONTROL SYSTEMS AND METHODS - An engine control system for an auto-stop/start vehicle, comprising: an actuator control module, a correction determination module, and a spark adjustment module. The actuator control module determines a target spark timing for a first time that is between a second time when engine cranking begins and a third time when a measured engine speed becomes greater than a predetermined engine speed after the second time. The correction determination module determines a spark timing correction for the first time based on a target engine speed and a measured engine speed. The spark adjustment module sets a spark timing for the first time based on the target spark timing and the spark timing correction. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110290212 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IMPROVED ENGINE START-STOP RESPONSE - A control system for a vehicle that includes an engine includes an engine-stop module and a fuel control module. The engine-stop module determines whether to stop the engine based on at least one of input from a driver of the vehicle and vehicle operating parameters. The fuel control module stops the engine and controls a rate of engine speed decay by disabling fueling to cylinders of the engine according to a predetermined sequence. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110290106 | PISTON ASSEMBLY - A piston assembly includes an annular body defining a groove, with a ring disposed within the groove. The piston assembly includes a centering device disposed within the groove between an inner face of the ring and a root of the groove. The centering device centers the ring concentrically within the groove when the ring is in an uncompressed condition, prior to installation into a bore of an engine block, to prevent the inner face of the ring from moving radially outward beyond an outer edge of the groove when the ring is in the uncompressed condition. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110288841 | VEHICLE SIMULATION SYSTEM WITH SOFTWARE-IN-THE-LOOP BYPASS CONTROL - A vehicle simulation system includes a first simulation model that when executed simulates a software ring along with other software of a vehicle module. The vehicle simulation system further includes a second simulation model of the software ring. A bypass switch that has a first state and a second state. A bypass switching module switches the bypass switch between the first simulation model and the second simulation model based on a bypass signal and a ring enabling signal. A simulation control module executes code of a vehicle simulation model including software in-the-loop (SIL) testing of a selected one of the first simulation model and the second simulation model based on state of the bypass switch. | 11-24-2011 |
| 20110288840 | VEHICLE SYSTEM MODELING SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A vehicle simulation system includes a compiler module, a parser module, a wrapper module, a modeling module, and a simulation module. The compiler module generates object code that is compatible with a first type of operating system based on source code that is executable by a vehicle control module and that is compatible with a second type of operating system. The parser module generates a definitions file and an extensible markup language (XML) file based on the source code and the object code. The wrapper module generates a library file based on the object code and the definitions file. The modeling module generates model-based source code for a virtual model based on the XML file and a user configuration of the virtual model. The simulation module simulates operation of a plant of a vehicle with the virtual model. | 11-24-2011 |
| 20110288749 | COMBUSTION CONTROL SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A combustion control system for a direct injection engine includes a mean effective pressure (MEP) determination module, a coefficient of variation (COV) determination module, a spark timing module, and a fuel control module. The MEP determination module determines a MEP for a first combustion event of a cylinder based on cylinder pressure measured by a cylinder pressure sensor during the first combustion event. The COV determination module determines a COV for the cylinder based on the MEP. The spark timing module selectively sets a spark timing for a second combustion event of the cylinder based on the COV. The second combustion event is after the first combustion event. The fuel control module that selectively provides fuel for the second combustion event based on the COV. | 11-24-2011 |
| 20110288746 | CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR IMPROVING COLD STARTABILITY OF SPARK IGNITION DIRECT INJECTION (SIDI) ENGINES - A control system includes an engine enable module and a fuel control module. The engine enable module determines whether predetermined operating conditions of a spark ignition direct injection (SIDI) engine are satisfied and enables an engine prime mode when the predetermined operating conditions are satisfied. The fuel control module controls a fuel injector to deliver a prime pulse to a cylinder of the SIDI engine when the engine prime mode is enabled. The fuel injector delivers the prime pulse by opening for a pulse width to inject fuel directly into the cylinder when the SIDI engine is stopped. | 11-24-2011 |
| 20110288734 | POWERTRAIN CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHODS WITH ECM-TO-TCM PARAMETER TRANSFER PROTOCOLS FOR TCM BASED CONTROL - A control system includes an engine control module and a transmission control module. The transmission control module communicates with the engine control module via a network. The engine control module generates a mean engine speed signal and a minimum engine speed signal. The engine control module transmits the mean engine speed signal and the minimum engine speed signal to the transmission control module via the network. The transmission control module controls operation of at least one of a torque converter and a transmission based on the mean engine speed signal and the minimum engine speed signal. The torque converter is connected between an engine and the transmission. | 11-24-2011 |
| 20110288723 | MODULAR TEMPERATURE PERFORMANCE DIAGNOSTIC FOR A VEHICLE - A vehicle includes a power inverter module (PIM), a motor/generator unit (MGU), vehicle components, temperature sensors, and a controller. The sensors measure temperatures of a motor winding of the MGU, and temperatures of the multiple phase outputs of the PIM. The second plurality of temperature sensors measures temperatures of the vehicle components. The controller calculates an average temperature of the components, and individually diagnoses each temperature sensor using the average temperature. A control circuit for the vehicle includes the first and second plurality of sensors and the controller. A temperature performance diagnostic method includes using the first plurality to measure a temperature of the motor winding and the phase outputs of the PIM, using the second plurality to measure a temperature of the components, calculating an average temperature of the components, and individually diagnosing the performance of each of the first plurality of sensors using the average temperature. | 11-24-2011 |
| 20110288716 | STABILITY ENHANCING SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ENHANCING THE STABILITY OF A VEHICLE - A stability enhancing system for a vehicle having a suspension system including a spring is disclosed herein. The stability enhancing system includes, but is not limited to, a processor that is mounted on the vehicle. A sensor is mounted on the vehicle and is communicatively coupled to the processor. The sensor is configured to detect a dynamic condition of the vehicle. A locking mechanism is connected to the spring and is communicatively coupled to the processor. The locking mechanism is configured to inhibit the spring from releasing a stored energy when the locking mechanism is locked. The processor is configured to obtain the dynamic condition from the sensor, to utilize the dynamic condition to determine whether a wheel lift event will occur, and to provide commands to the locking mechanism to lock if the processor determines that a wheel lift event will occur. | 11-24-2011 |
| 20110288699 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR MOTOR TORQUE CONTROL FOR VEHICLES WHEN A CURRENT SENSOR IS NOT OPERATING PROPERLY - Methods and systems for controlling motor torque in a hybrid vehicle are provided. A current sensor provides a feedback current when the sensor is operating properly. A processor controls the motor torque using the feedback current if the current sensor is operating properly. The processor controls the motor torque using a slip value for the hybrid vehicle if the current sensor is not operating properly. | 11-24-2011 |
| 20110288698 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING MOTOR TORQUE IN HYBRID VEHICLES - Methods and systems are provided for motor torque control for hybrid vehicles having a motor and a communications bus. The motor torque is controlled using a first motor torque capacity if the communications bus is healthy. The motor torque is controlled using a second motor torque capacity if the communications bus is unhealthy. The first motor torque capacity has a first absolute value. The second motor torque capacity has a second absolute value that is less than the first absolute value. | 11-24-2011 |
