Abstract

A method for estimating the strength of a laser welded blank including a first blank and a second blank joined together by a weld seam. The method may include forming a plurality of indentations in the first blank, the second blank, and the weld seam to determine an average value of a micro-hardness (Vickers); determining a scale-up ratio K; multiplying the scale-up ratio K by the average values of the micro-hardness of each of the first blank, the second blank, and the weld seam to obtain a scaled-up average value of the microhardness of each of the first blank, the second blank, and the weld seam; running a finite elemental analysis (FEA) simulation using the scaled-up average values of the microhardness; and based on the results of the simulation, determining whether the strength of the laser welded blank is sufficient to withstand being subjected to a forming process.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01N 33/207 - Welded or soldered jointsSolderability
• G06F 30/23 - Design optimisation, verification or simulation using finite element methods [FEM] or finite difference methods [FDM]
• G06F 119/18 - Manufacturability analysis or optimisation for manufacturability

Abstract

A reinforcement beam for a vehicle sill has a first elongated beam with an overall cup shape in cross section with one side longer than the other. A first and second flange that are offset with respect to one another. A second elongated beam panel, opposing the first beam with an overall cup shape in cross section with one side longer than the other. A first and second flange offset with respect to one another. A third and fourth elongated beam panel have an overall L-shape in cross section with a long leg and a short leg. The third and fourth beams are positioned between the first and second beam panels with the long leg of the L-shape extending through the flanges of the first and second panel.

IPC Classes  ?

• B62D 25/02 - Side panels

Abstract

A two-speed gearbox assembly for an electric drive module having an electric motor for an electric vehicle is provided. The gearbox assembly includes a housing, a first planetary gear set, a second planetary gear set, a first clutch, and a second clutch. The first planetary gear set is configured to selectively connect to an output of an electric motor and includes a first sun gear, a first ring gear and a first planetary carrier. The second planetary gear set is rotationally coupled to an output of the first planetary gear set and includes a second sun gear, a second ring gear and a second planetary carrier. The first clutch selectively couples the first ring gear to the housing. The second clutch selectively couples the first ring gear to an output of the electric motor.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02K 7/116 - Structural association with clutches, brakes, gears, pulleys or mechanical starters with gears
• H02K 7/00 - Arrangements for handling mechanical energy structurally associated with dynamo-electric machines, e.g. structural association with mechanical driving motors or auxiliary dynamo-electric machines
• H02K 7/108 - Structural association with clutches, brakes, gears, pulleys or mechanical starters with friction clutches

Abstract

A vehicle storage space closing assist system has an air inlet portal in the storage space to enable air to exit from the storage space upon closing a hood covering the storage space. A conduit directs air away from the storage space upon closing of the hood. A bladder couples with the conduit to receive pressurized air upon closing of the hood. An outlet portal is coupled with the conduit to enable exiting of the pressurized air back into the storage space upon opening of the hood.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60H 1/24 - Devices purely for ventilating or where the heating or cooling is irrelevant
• B60R 5/02 - Compartments within vehicle body primarily intended or sufficiently spacious for trunks, suit-cases, or the like arranged at front of vehicle

Abstract

A vehicle system and method for a vehicle implements a donut mode to vehicle wheels for creating a donut. A motor provides drive torque to at least one wheel of the vehicle wheels for propelling the vehicle. A steering wheel communicates a steering wheel signal indicative of a direction intended for the vehicle to travel. An instrument panel cluster displays a user interface menu that includes a user selectable donut mode. The controller initiates a donut mode based on user selection of the donut mode. The controller determines whether vehicle conditions are satisfied and enables torque to be delivered from the motor to the left and right rear wheels. Speed differential is enabled between the left and right rear wheels and the left and right front wheels. Based on a direction of the steering wheel, a desired torque input is determined to one of the left and right rear wheels.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60L 15/20 - Methods, circuits or devices for controlling the propulsion of electrically-propelled vehicles, e.g. their traction-motor speed, to achieve a desired performanceAdaptation of control equipment on electrically-propelled vehicles for remote actuation from a stationary place, from alternative parts of the vehicle or from alternative vehicles of the same vehicle train for control of the vehicle or its driving motor to achieve a desired performance, e.g. speed, torque, programmed variation of speed
• B60L 58/12 - Methods or circuit arrangements for monitoring or controlling batteries or fuel cells, specially adapted for electric vehicles for monitoring or controlling batteries responding to state of charge [SoC]

Abstract

An internal combustion engine system includes an internal combustion engine and a main exhaust aftertreatment system with a main catalytic converter configured to receive exhaust gas from the internal combustion engine. A variable geometry turbine (VGT) includes a plurality of vanes movable between a normal operation position and a restricted position. A light-off catalyst bypass system includes a bypass passage and a bypass catalytic converter configured to selectively receive exhaust gas from the internal combustion engine and bypass the VGT. During cold start, long idle, and/or low main catalytic converter temperature conditions, the plurality of vanes are moved to the restricted position to restrict or prevent exhaust gas from flowing through the VGT to facilitate directing the exhaust gas through the bypass passage and the bypass catalyst.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01N 3/28 - Construction of catalytic reactors
• F01N 11/00 - Monitoring or diagnostic devices for exhaust-gas treatment apparatus
• F01N 13/10 - Other arrangements or adaptations of exhaust conduits of exhaust manifolds
• F02B 37/22 - Control of the pumps by varying the cross-section of exhaust passages or air passages

Abstract

A switchable battery disconnect unit (BDU) system for an electrified vehicle includes a switchable BDU for a high voltage battery system of the electrified vehicle, the switchable BDU including one or more protection devices that each include both a contactor and an integrated circuit breaker, and a controller configured to control the switchable BDU to switch between 400 Volts (400V) and 800V direct current (DC) modes for powering an electrified powertrain of the electrified vehicle and for recharging the high voltage battery system and monitor and reset the protection device in response to an actuation of the integrated circuit breaker, wherein the protection device does not include a replaceable thermal fuse.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60L 3/00 - Electric devices on electrically-propelled vehicles for safety purposesMonitoring operating variables, e.g. speed, deceleration or energy consumption
• B60L 3/04 - Cutting-off the power supply under fault conditions
• H02H 5/04 - Emergency protective circuit arrangements for automatic disconnection directly responsive to an undesired change from normal non-electric working conditions with or without subsequent reconnection responsive to abnormal temperature

Abstract

A three-speed gearbox assembly for an electric drive module includes a housing, a first and second planetary gear set, and a first, second, third and fourth clutch. The first planetary gear set is configured to selectively connect to an output of an electric motor and includes a first sun gear, a first ring gear and a first planetary carrier. The second planetary gear set is rotationally coupled to an output of the first planetary gear set and includes a second sun gear, a second ring gear and a second planetary carrier. The first clutch selectively couples the first carrier to the housing. The second clutch selectively couples the first sun gear to the housing. The third clutch selectively couples the output of the electric motor to the first sun gear. The fourth clutch selectively couples the output of the electric motor to the first carrier.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02K 7/116 - Structural association with clutches, brakes, gears, pulleys or mechanical starters with gears
• H02K 7/00 - Arrangements for handling mechanical energy structurally associated with dynamo-electric machines, e.g. structural association with mechanical driving motors or auxiliary dynamo-electric machines
• H02K 7/108 - Structural association with clutches, brakes, gears, pulleys or mechanical starters with friction clutches

Abstract

A vehicle system and method for a vehicle implements a drift mode to vehicle wheels for creating a drift. A motor provides drive torque to at least one wheel of the vehicle wheels for propelling the vehicle. A steering wheel communicates a steering wheel signal indicative of a direction intended for the vehicle to travel. An instrument panel cluster displays a user interface menu that includes a user selectable drift mode. The controller initiates a drift mode based on user selection of the drift mode. The controller determines whether vehicle conditions are satisfied and enables torque to be delivered from the motor to the left and right rear wheels. Speed differential is enabled between the front and rear wheels. Based on a direction of the steering wheel, a desired torque input is determined to one of the left and right rear wheels.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60L 15/20 - Methods, circuits or devices for controlling the propulsion of electrically-propelled vehicles, e.g. their traction-motor speed, to achieve a desired performanceAdaptation of control equipment on electrically-propelled vehicles for remote actuation from a stationary place, from alternative parts of the vehicle or from alternative vehicles of the same vehicle train for control of the vehicle or its driving motor to achieve a desired performance, e.g. speed, torque, programmed variation of speed
• B60L 58/12 - Methods or circuit arrangements for monitoring or controlling batteries or fuel cells, specially adapted for electric vehicles for monitoring or controlling batteries responding to state of charge [SoC]

Abstract

In at least some implementations, a method for determining range for a vehicle connected to a trailer includes determining connection of a trailer to the vehicle, determining at least one trailer parameter relating to a size, shape or a weight of the trailer, and determining a reduction in vehicle range as a function of the at least one trailer parameter.

IPC Classes  ?

• G07C 5/02 - Registering or indicating driving, working, idle, or waiting time only
• B60G 17/016 - Resilient suspensions having means for adjusting the spring or vibration-damper characteristics, for regulating the distance between a supporting surface and a sprung part of vehicle or for locking suspension during use to meet varying vehicular or surface conditions, e.g. due to speed or load the regulating means comprising electric or electronic elements characterised by their responsiveness, when the vehicle is travelling, to specific motion, a specific condition, or driver input
• B60Q 9/00 - Arrangement or adaptation of signal devices not provided for in one of main groups
• G06T 7/60 - Analysis of geometric attributes
• G06T 7/70 - Determining position or orientation of objects or cameras
• G06V 20/56 - Context or environment of the image exterior to a vehicle by using sensors mounted on the vehicle

Abstract

An intersection assistance technique for a vehicle includes obtaining intersection information relative to an all-way stop scenario that involves a plurality of vehicles including the vehicle and, in response to detecting the all-way stop scenario, executing an intersection assistance procedure including, based on the set of intersection information, determining a sequential order in that the plurality of vehicles should proceed during the all-way stop scenario, and controlling a display of the vehicle to display graphical information based on the determined sequential order, where the display of the graphical information assists a driver of the vehicle in navigating the all-way stop scenario.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60W 50/14 - Means for informing the driver, warning the driver or prompting a driver intervention
• B60W 30/18 - Propelling the vehicle
• B60W 40/04 - Traffic conditions
• H04W 4/44 - Services specially adapted for particular environments, situations or purposes for vehicles, e.g. vehicle-to-pedestrians [V2P] for communication between vehicles and infrastructures, e.g. vehicle-to-cloud [V2C] or vehicle-to-home [V2H]

Abstract

An electric drive module that generates and transfers drive torque to a driveline of an electrified vehicle is provided. The electric drive module includes an electric drive gearbox assembly having a ring gear, a clutch assembly and a plurality of mechanical joining members. The ring gear receives a rotational input from an electric motor of the electric drive module and defines a first plurality of passages therein. The clutch assembly includes a clutch basket that receives a plurality of clutch plates therein, the clutch basket having a second plurality of passages therein. The plurality of mechanical joining members extend through the first plurality of passages of the ring gear and the second plurality of passages in the clutch basket, the plurality of mechanical joining members mitigating loads experienced between the ring gear and the clutch basket.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02K 7/116 - Structural association with clutches, brakes, gears, pulleys or mechanical starters with gears
• H02K 7/00 - Arrangements for handling mechanical energy structurally associated with dynamo-electric machines, e.g. structural association with mechanical driving motors or auxiliary dynamo-electric machines
• H02K 7/108 - Structural association with clutches, brakes, gears, pulleys or mechanical starters with friction clutches

Abstract

A drivetrain assembly for a vehicle having a propulsion system configured to drive first and second half shafts is provided. In one example, the drivetrain assembly includes a gearbox assembly configured to couple to the propulsion system, a planetary gear set selectively coupled to an output of the gearbox assembly, and a differential having a differential case, the differential configured to operably couple to the first and second half shafts. The drivetrain assembly operates in a tank steer mode by selectively grounding the differential case and connecting the output of the gearbox assembly to the first half shaft via the planetary gear set, such that the propulsion system rotates the first half shaft in the first direction and, via the differential, rotates the second half shaft in the opposite second direction.

IPC Classes  ?

• B62D 11/12 - Steering non-deflectable wheelsSteering endless tracks or the like by differentially driving ground-engaging elements on opposite vehicle sides by means of a single main power source using gearings with differential power outputs on opposite sides, e.g. twin- differential or epicyclic gears using separate change-speed gearings

Abstract

A vehicle sill reinforcement beam has a first elongated beam panel with a hat shape in cross section and a first and second flange. One flange is on each side of the hat shape. A second elongated beam panel, opposing the first beam panel, with a hat shape in cross section and a first and second flange. One flange is on each side of the hat shape. The opposing first and second flanges are secured to one another. A third elongated panel with a hat shape in cross section. The third panel is positioned between the first and second panels with its hat shape extending into the hat shape of the first panel. A fourth elongated panel has a hat shape in cross section. The fourth panel is positioned between the first and second panels with its hat shape extending into the hat shape of the second panel.

IPC Classes  ?

• B62D 25/02 - Side panels

Abstract

There is provided a system and method for monitoring snow or ice accumulation on a vehicle window by a user with a mobile device. The system includes a camera directed to at least a portion of a window in the vehicle. The system further comprises a heating element, a blower and vents. Images from the camera may be sent to a mobile device that can be displayed on a screen. These images can be used to determine the presence of snow or ice, and the amount of clearing of snow or ice that has been achieved after activation of the system.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60S 1/54 - Cleaning windscreens, windows, or optical devices using gas, e.g. hot air
• B60H 1/00 - Heating, cooling or ventilating devices

Abstract

A transmission includes a housing defining an actuator cavity, a plurality of clutches disposed within the housing and configured to be engaged in various combinations to generate gear ratios corresponding to forward speeds of the transmission, and an actuator assembly configured to selectively engage one clutch of the plurality of clutches, the actuator assembly including a piston slidingly disposed within the actuator cavity. An anti-rotation assembly is configured to prevent rotation of the piston within the actuator cavity, the anti-rotation assembly including a stop and a projection. The projection is coupled to and extends outwardly from an interior surface of the piston, and the stop is grounded to the housing and includes a bore configured to receive a distal end of the projection to thereby prevent rotation of the projection and piston.

IPC Classes  ?

• F16D 25/0638 - Fluid-actuated clutches in which the fluid actuates a piston incorporated in the clutch the clutch having friction surfaces with clutch members exclusively moving axially with flat friction surfaces, e.g. discs with more than two discs, e.g. multiple lamellae
• F16H 63/30 - Constructional features of the final output mechanisms

Abstract

A vehicle system for a vehicle that implements a launch control mode to vehicle wheels for creating a launch control includes a motor, an instrument panel and a controller. The motor provides drive torque to at least one wheel of the vehicle wheels for propelling the vehicle. The instrument panel cluster is configured to display a user interface menu that includes a user selectable launch control mode. The controller initiates a launch control mode based on user selection of the launch control mode. The controller determines whether vehicle conditions are satisfied and receives a launch intensity selected at the user interface menu. The controller enables torque to be delivered from the motor to all drive wheels based on the launch intensity. Wheel speeds are monitored and wheel slip is determined. Torque is sent to select wheels based on the determined wheel slip.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60W 10/08 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of propulsion units including control of electric propulsion units, e.g. motors or generators
• B60W 10/18 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of braking systems
• B60W 10/26 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of energy storage means for electrical energy, e.g. batteries or capacitors
• B60W 50/14 - Means for informing the driver, warning the driver or prompting a driver intervention

Abstract

Three-way longitudinal collision control techniques for mitigating vehicle occupant injuries include providing a controller and a set of perception sensors configured to monitor vehicles traveling both in front of and behind a host vehicle; executing a level of autonomy three or greater (LOA 3+) autonomous driving feature that includes controlling a speed of a host vehicle relative a lead vehicle in front of the host vehicle and a trailing vehicle behind the host vehicle, during the execution of the LOA 3+ autonomous driving feature, detecting an imminent three-way longitudinal collision between the host vehicle, the lead vehicle, and the trailing vehicle, and in response to detecting the imminent three-way longitudinal collision, controlling a speed of the host vehicle during the three-way longitudinal collision to mitigate injuries to one or more occupants of the host vehicle.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60W 30/14 - Cruise control
• B60W 30/09 - Taking automatic action to avoid collision, e.g. braking and steering
• B60W 30/095 - Predicting travel path or likelihood of collision
• B60W 30/165 - Control of distance between vehicles, e.g. keeping a distance to preceding vehicle automatically following the path of a preceding lead vehicle, e.g. "electronic tow-bar"
• B60W 60/00 - Drive control systems specially adapted for autonomous road vehicles

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method and a system for communication between a first component (101) and a second component (102) of an on-board system of a vehicle (10). The communication between the first component (101) and the second component (102) is based on the I2C communication protocol over an LVDS link (100). To this end, the first component (101) transmits to the second component (102) a data frame comprising first data and a first control value determined according to the first data. The second component (102) determines a second control value according to the received data and compares the first control value and the second control value in order to account or not account for the received data frame.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06F 13/42 - Bus transfer protocol, e.g. handshakeSynchronisation

Abstract

An electric drive module (160) that generates and transfers drive torque to a driveline of an electrified vehicle is provided. The electric drive module includes an electric drive gearbox (120) assembly having a ring gear (132), a clutch assembly (136) and a plurality of mechanical joining members (150). The ring gear (132) receives a rotational input from an electric motor (116) of the electric drive module (160) and defines a first plurality of passages (152) therein. The clutch assembly (136) includes a clutch basket (140) that receives a plurality of clutch plates (138) therein, the clutch basket having a second plurality of passages (154) therein. The plurality of mechanical joining members (150) extend through the first plurality of passages (152) of the ring gear and the second plurality of passages (154) in the clutch basket, the plurality of mechanical joining members (140) mitigating loads experienced between the ring gear and the clutch basket.

IPC Classes  ?

• F16D 13/60 - Clutching elements
• F16D 13/68 - Attachments of plates or lamellae to their supports
• B60K 6/387 - Actuated clutches, i.e. clutches engaged or disengaged by electric, hydraulic or mechanical actuating means
• B60K 6/40 - Arrangement or mounting of plural diverse prime-movers for mutual or common propulsion, e.g. hybrid propulsion systems comprising electric motors and internal combustion engines the prime-movers consisting of electric motors and internal combustion engines, e.g. HEVs characterised by apparatus, components or means specially adapted for HEVs characterised by the assembly or relative disposition of components

Abstract

A method for determining the predicting sealing performance of a joint having a sealant positioned between a first member and a second member. The method includes selecting a sealant material for the sealant, selecting a first member material for the first member and a second member material for the second member, and subjecting the joint, using finite elemental analysis (FEA), to high cycle loads and low cycle loads. After subjecting the joint to the high cycle loads and the low cycle loads, the method includes determining a maximum high cycle displacement of the joint and determining a maximum low cycle displacement of the joint, and determining an estimated life of the joint using the following formula (1): A method for determining the predicting sealing performance of a joint having a sealant positioned between a first member and a second member. The method includes selecting a sealant material for the sealant, selecting a first member material for the first member and a second member material for the second member, and subjecting the joint, using finite elemental analysis (FEA), to high cycle loads and low cycle loads. After subjecting the joint to the high cycle loads and the low cycle loads, the method includes determining a maximum high cycle displacement of the joint and determining a maximum low cycle displacement of the joint, and determining an estimated life of the joint using the following formula (1): ( maximum ⁢ low ⁢ cycle ⁢ displacement + 1 ) × ( maximum ⁢ high ⁢ cycle ⁢ displacement 2 ) = C · ( 2 ⁢ N f ) 2 ⁢ b , where in formula (1) C represents a constant of the sealant material, Nf represents the estimated life of the joint, and b represents a slope.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06F 30/23 - Design optimisation, verification or simulation using finite element methods [FEM] or finite difference methods [FDM]
• G06F 30/15 - Vehicle, aircraft or watercraft design
• G06F 119/02 - Reliability analysis or reliability optimisationFailure analysis, e.g. worst case scenario performance, failure mode and effects analysis [FMEA]

Abstract

A front trunk system for an automotive vehicle having a front trunk door having front trunk closed path includes a sensor generating an obstacle signal corresponding to an obstacle across the front trunk closed path and a controller coupled to the sensor controlling an indicator when the obstacle is the front trunk closed path.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60R 5/02 - Compartments within vehicle body primarily intended or sufficiently spacious for trunks, suit-cases, or the like arranged at front of vehicle

Abstract

A calibration technique for a multi-dimensional surface for functional safety verification of a control system of a vehicle involves accessing a memory configured to store operation data relative to the control system of the vehicle, the operation data representing a multi-dimensional surface comprising a plurality of data points, identifying a plurality of breakpoints for representing the multi-dimensional surface based on a maximum allowable number of breakpoints, instantaneous data point slopes, and minimum/maximum breakpoint spacing constraints, and generating a calibrated look-up table for the control system, the calibrated look-up table including the plurality of breakpoints, wherein the calibrated look-up table is configured to be utilized for functional safety verification of an output of the control system.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60W 50/00 - Details of control systems for road vehicle drive control not related to the control of a particular sub-unit

Abstract

A three-speed gearbox assembly for an electric drive module (EDM) of an electric vehicle includes a housing, a first and second planetary gear set, and a first, second, third and fourth clutch. The first planetary gear set is configured to selectively connect to an output of an electric motor and includes a first sun gear, a first ring gear and a first planetary carrier. The second planetary gear set is rotationally coupled to an output of the first planetary gear set and includes a second sun gear, a second ring gear and a second planetary carrier. The first clutch selectively couples the first carrier to the housing. The second clutch selectively couples the first sun gear to the housing. The third clutch selectively couples the output of the electric motor to the first sun gear. The fourth clutch selectively couples the output of the electric motor to the first carrier.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02K 7/116 - Structural association with clutches, brakes, gears, pulleys or mechanical starters with gears
• H02K 7/00 - Arrangements for handling mechanical energy structurally associated with dynamo-electric machines, e.g. structural association with mechanical driving motors or auxiliary dynamo-electric machines
• H02K 7/108 - Structural association with clutches, brakes, gears, pulleys or mechanical starters with friction clutches

Abstract

A control technique for balancing controller computational processing loads in a vehicle includes determining a set of allowed functions from a plurality of functions executable by the controller based on a set of constraints corresponding to a set of operating parameters of the vehicle, dividing the set of allowed functions into a plurality of subsets to obtain a plurality of subsets of allowed functions, based on offline testing data relating to runtimes of the plurality of functions, equally assigning the plurality of subsets of allowed functions across N instances of the function trigger, wherein N is an integer greater than one, and executing the set of allowed functions across the N instances of the function trigger as equally assigned to balance a computational load on the controller.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60W 20/30 - Control strategies involving selection of transmission gear ratio
• B60W 20/20 - Control strategies involving selection of hybrid configuration, e.g. selection between series or parallel configuration

Abstract

A vehicle system for an electrified vehicle that implements a race preparation mode for preparing the electrified vehicle for a race event is provided. The vehicle system includes a motor, a battery system, an instrument panel cluster and a controller. The controller initiates the race preparation mode based on user selection of the race preparation mode. The controller determines whether a drag race mode is selected and determines whether a measured temperature of the battery system is below a warm temperature threshold. The temperature of the battery system is elevated based on the measured temperature being below the warm temperature threshold. The controller determines whether a track mode is selected and determines whether a measured temperature of the battery system is above a cold temperature threshold. The temperature of the battery system is reduced based on the measured temperature being above the cold temperature threshold.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60H 1/00 - Heating, cooling or ventilating devices
• B60L 58/26 - Methods or circuit arrangements for monitoring or controlling batteries or fuel cells, specially adapted for electric vehicles for monitoring or controlling batteries for controlling the temperature of batteries by cooling
• B60L 58/27 - Methods or circuit arrangements for monitoring or controlling batteries or fuel cells, specially adapted for electric vehicles for monitoring or controlling batteries for controlling the temperature of batteries by heating

Abstract

A vehicle system for a vehicle that implements a line lock mode to vehicle wheels for creating a line lock includes a motor, an instrument panel and a controller. The motor provides drive torque to at least one wheel of the vehicle wheels for propelling the vehicle. The vehicle wheels include a left and right rear wheels and left and right front wheels. The instrument panel cluster is configured to display a user interface menu that includes a user selectable line lock mode. The controller initiates a line lock mode based on user selection of the line lock mode. The controller determines whether vehicle conditions are satisfied. The controller applies brakes to the left and right front wheels. The controller disables torque delivery to the left and right front wheels and sends drive torque to the left and right rear wheels.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60L 15/20 - Methods, circuits or devices for controlling the propulsion of electrically-propelled vehicles, e.g. their traction-motor speed, to achieve a desired performanceAdaptation of control equipment on electrically-propelled vehicles for remote actuation from a stationary place, from alternative parts of the vehicle or from alternative vehicles of the same vehicle train for control of the vehicle or its driving motor to achieve a desired performance, e.g. speed, torque, programmed variation of speed

Abstract

Simulation techniques for development and verification of a system of a vehicle include a computer system configured to access a memory configured to store a custom import library defining a plurality of time-based models for various vehicle systems, to receive, from a user, first input defining an event-based model of the vehicle system, during the defining of the event-based model, output, to the user, the custom import library and receive, from the user, second input selecting one of the plurality of time-based models, execute a simulation of the event-based model, including simulating the selected time-based model, and upon executing the event-based model, display, to the user, results of the simulation of the event-based model, including a graphical display of the time-based model simulation.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06F 30/15 - Vehicle, aircraft or watercraft design
• G06F 111/20 - Configuration CAD, e.g. designing by assembling or positioning modules selected from libraries of predesigned modules

Abstract

An electronic control unit (ECU) for a vehicle, such as an engine control module (ECM), with a hinged design that can be conveniently mounted in an engine compartment where space is limited. The ECU generally includes a lower bracket with mounting and hinging features, an upper bracket with attachment and hinging features, and an electronic module with attachment features. The mounting features of the lower bracket enable the lower bracket to be stationarily mounted or attached within the engine compartment. The hinging features of the lower and upper brackets engage one another so that the upper bracket can hinge, with respect to the lower bracket, thereby pivoting the ECU between closed and opened positions. The attachment features of the upper bracket and electronic module engage one another so that the electronic module is attached to the upper bracket. A method of using the ECU is also disclosed.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60R 11/02 - Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for for radio sets, television sets, telephones, or the likeArrangement of controls thereof
• B60R 16/023 - Electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided forArrangement of elements of electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided for electric for transmission of signals between vehicle parts or subsystems

Abstract

A testing apparatus for torque off weld stud testing has a socket to receive a weld stud welded to a metal sheet for testing strength of the weld. A stopper is received in the socket indexing the weld stud. A nut locks the stopper in position to enable repeated socket indexing to like weld studs.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01N 3/22 - Investigating strength properties of solid materials by application of mechanical stress by applying steady torsional forces

Abstract

A vehicle system and method that implements a cycle to vehicle wheels for freeing a vehicle from a stuck condition is provided. The vehicle system includes a drive unit and controller. The drive unit provides a drive toque through a transmission to at least one wheel of the vehicle wheels for propelling the vehicle. The controller has a rock cycle module that determines a torque, a gear shift strategy and a frequency output based on vehicle inputs including wheel speeds of the vehicle wheels. The controller determines whether the rock cycle has been initiated and determines a surface type the vehicle is encountering. A first torque is selected at a torque module. A first gear shift strategy is selected at a gear module. A first frequency is selected at a frequency module. The selected torque, gear shift strategy and frequency are implemented at the drive unit, transmission and vehicle wheels.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60W 30/18 - Propelling the vehicle

Abstract

A method of controlling a vehicle having a retractable belly pan and a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system determining a condenser temperature of a condenser of the HVAC system, comparing the condenser temperature to a temperature threshold and controlling a bellypan opening in response to comparing.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60H 1/32 - Cooling devices
• B62D 25/08 - Front or rear portions

Abstract

An aerodynamic testing system for determining the shape characteristics of a test object by employing a mixture of cold air and water vapor in an open-circuit wind tunnel. The system integrates a chiller and an air induction device to produce cold air that's combined with water vapor at temperatures at, around, or below freezing. A fluid dispersion device introduces water vapor into the tunnel. The wind tunnel walls are heated above freezing using an embedded heating element to prevent icy buildup. During testing, the test object is positioned on a specialized load cell equipped with multiple transducers and a support plate. The load cell measures aerodynamic forces on the test object. Concurrently, the support plate keeps the test object at or near freezing temperatures. All acquired data, including drag metrics and a 3D scan of the object, are systematically stored in a dedicated database or storage medium.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01M 9/04 - Wind tunnels Details
• G01M 9/06 - Measuring arrangements specially adapted for aerodynamic testing

Abstract

A method and system for controlling a vehicle includes determining a temperature of a power distribution center and controlling an opening of an active air dam in response to the temperature of the power distribution center.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60K 11/08 - Air inlets for coolingShutters or blinds therefor
• B60W 20/50 - Control strategies for responding to system failures, e.g. for fault diagnosis, failsafe operation or limp mode
• B60W 30/184 - Preventing damage resulting from overload or excessive wear of the driveline

Abstract

A method of rationalizing a sensor of a vehicle is provided. The method includes the steps of receiving an output from a wheel speed sensor, receiving an output from a lateral accelerometer, receiving an output from a steering angle sensor, determining whether an evaluation event exists based on the output from the wheel speed sensor, evaluating one of the steering angle sensor output or the lateral accelerometer sensor output during the evaluation event, and determining whether the other of the steering angle sensor output or the lateral accelerometer sensor output exceeds a test threshold value during the evaluation event.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01P 21/00 - Testing or calibrating of apparatus or devices covered by the other groups of this subclass
• B62D 15/02 - Steering position indicators
• G01B 21/22 - Measuring arrangements or details thereof, where the measuring technique is not covered by the other groups of this subclass, unspecified or not relevant for measuring angles or tapersMeasuring arrangements or details thereof, where the measuring technique is not covered by the other groups of this subclass, unspecified or not relevant for testing the alignment of axes

Abstract

User-customizable range extension techniques for battery electric vehicles (BEVs) include receiving, by a controller and from a user interface, a first user input from a user indicating a range extension level for operation of the BEV, the range extension level indicating a reduced operation of the BEV relative to a normal operation of the BEV to increase the range of the BEV, receiving, by the controller and from the user interface, a second user input from the user indicating an allocation of the range extension level between a plurality of different systems of the BEV, and controlling, by the controller, the BEV including its plurality of different systems based on the range extension level and the indicated allocation thereof to increase a range of the BEV as specified by the user.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60L 15/20 - Methods, circuits or devices for controlling the propulsion of electrically-propelled vehicles, e.g. their traction-motor speed, to achieve a desired performanceAdaptation of control equipment on electrically-propelled vehicles for remote actuation from a stationary place, from alternative parts of the vehicle or from alternative vehicles of the same vehicle train for control of the vehicle or its driving motor to achieve a desired performance, e.g. speed, torque, programmed variation of speed
• G06F 3/04847 - Interaction techniques to control parameter settings, e.g. interaction with sliders or dials

Abstract

An electric motor system, such as for an electrified vehicle, includes a permanent magnet motor (PMM) including a hollow cylindrical stator defining a circular inner portion with a plurality of slots, defined between a respective plurality of ferromagnetic teeth, and having a plurality of electromagnetic coils arranged in the plurality of slots, respectively, and a cylindrical rotor disposed within the stator and defining a circular outer portion having N pairs of permanent magnets arranged thereabout to define N rotor poles, respectively, wherein at least one pair of the N pairs of permanent magnets is asymmetrically staggered or offset relative a symmetric N pole positioning, and wherein N is an even integer greater than or equal to four, and a controller configured to control the PMM to mitigate or eliminate magnetic cogging.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02K 29/03 - Motors or generators having non-mechanical commutating devices, e.g. discharge tubes or semiconductor devices with a magnetic circuit specially adapted for avoiding torque ripples or self-starting problems
• H02K 1/276 - Magnets embedded in the magnetic core, e.g. interior permanent magnets [IPM]
• H02K 21/14 - Synchronous motors having permanent magnetsSynchronous generators having permanent magnets with stationary armatures and rotating magnets with magnets rotating within the armatures

Abstract

An electric motor system, such as for an electrified vehicle, includes a permanent magnet motor (PMM) including a hollow cylindrical stator defining a circular inner portion with a plurality of slots, defined between a respective plurality of ferromagnetic teeth, and having a plurality of electromagnetic coils arranged in the plurality of slots, respectively, and a cylindrical rotor disposed within the stator and defining a circular outer portion having N pairs of permanent magnets arranged thereabout to define N rotor poles, respectively, wherein N is an even integer greater than or equal to four, and a controller configured to control the PMM to mitigate or eliminate magnetic cogging by controlling each pair of electromagnetic coils to stagger or offset a stator magnetic field generated by the pair of electromagnetic coils relative to the rotor magnetic poles.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02P 6/10 - Arrangements for controlling torque ripple, e.g. providing reduced torque ripple
• H02K 29/03 - Motors or generators having non-mechanical commutating devices, e.g. discharge tubes or semiconductor devices with a magnetic circuit specially adapted for avoiding torque ripples or self-starting problems

Abstract

A hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) includes an internal combustion engine, an electric traction motor, a belt starter generator (BSG) unit, a low voltage battery system including a low voltage battery, and a high voltage battery system including a high voltage traction battery. A DC/DC converter is configured to convert high voltage from the high voltage battery system into low voltage to charge the low voltage battery and support low voltage loads. A powertrain control system configured for reducing HEV CO2 emissions includes a controller configured to control an output voltage setpoint of the DC/DC converter and the BSG unit. The controller is configured to selectively increase or decrease the output voltage setpoints of the DC/DC converter and/or the BSG unit to reduce high voltage battery power consumption to thereby avoid or delay turning on the internal combustion engine to reduce CO2 emissions.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60W 20/16 - Control strategies specially adapted for achieving a particular effect for reducing engine exhaust emissions
• B60K 6/40 - Arrangement or mounting of plural diverse prime-movers for mutual or common propulsion, e.g. hybrid propulsion systems comprising electric motors and internal combustion engines the prime-movers consisting of electric motors and internal combustion engines, e.g. HEVs characterised by apparatus, components or means specially adapted for HEVs characterised by the assembly or relative disposition of components
• B60W 20/13 - Controlling the power contribution of each of the prime movers to meet required power demand in order to stay within battery power input or output limitsControlling the power contribution of each of the prime movers to meet required power demand in order to prevent overcharging or battery depletion

Abstract

A method and system for controlling a windbreak for a vehicle includes determining a sound signal corresponding to a sound level within the vehicle a minimizing the sound level within the vehicle by moving the windbreak.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60J 7/057 - Driving or actuating arrangements
• B60J 7/043 - Sunroofs

Abstract

A hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) includes an internal combustion engine, an electric traction motor, a belt starter generator (BSG) unit, a low voltage battery system including a low voltage battery, and a high voltage battery system including a high voltage traction battery. A DC/DC converter is configured to convert high voltage from the high voltage battery system into low voltage to charge the low voltage battery and support low voltage loads. A powertrain control system configured for reducing HEV CO2 emissions includes a controller configured to control an output voltage setpoint of the DC/DC converter and the BSG unit. The controller is configured to selectively increase or decrease the output voltage setpoints of the DC/DC converter and/or the BSG unit to reduce high voltage battery power consumption to thereby avoid or delay turning on the internal combustion engine to reduce CO2 emissions.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60L 50/15 - Electric propulsion with power supplied within the vehicle using propulsion power supplied by engine-driven generators, e.g. generators driven by combustion engines with additional electric power supply
• B60L 50/61 - Electric propulsion with power supplied within the vehicle using propulsion power supplied by batteries or fuel cells using power supplied by batteries by batteries charged by engine-driven generators, e.g. series hybrid electric vehicles
• B60L 58/13 - Maintaining the SoC within a determined range
• B60L 58/20 - Methods or circuit arrangements for monitoring or controlling batteries or fuel cells, specially adapted for electric vehicles for monitoring or controlling batteries of two or more battery modules having different nominal voltages
• B60W 20/16 - Control strategies specially adapted for achieving a particular effect for reducing engine exhaust emissions

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method and a device for controlling a route of a vehicle, which comprises receiving first data representative of a first itinerary (120) between a geographical starting position (D) and a geographical arrival position (A), determining an occupancy value of a car park associated with the geographical arrival position, and comparing the occupancy value of the car park with a threshold value. A geographical position of a car park (P) is determined according to the geographical arrival position and according to a result of the comparison, and a second itinerary is determined between the geographical starting position and the geographical arrival position, passing through the geographical position of the car park. The route of the vehicle is then controlled according to a first portion (121a) of the second itinerary determined between the geographical starting position and the geographical position of the car park.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01C 21/36 - Input/output arrangements for on-board computers
• G01C 21/34 - Route searchingRoute guidance
• G08G 1/14 - Traffic control systems for road vehicles indicating individual free spaces in parking areas

Abstract

A battery thermal management system including an air induction device for drawing air to a battery pack, a controller, a valve that opens to permit the air to enter the battery pack, and a temperature sensor for generating signals indicative of a temperature within the battery pack. Upon receipt of a signal from the temperature sensor that is indicative of the temperature within the housing being above a predetermined threshold, the controller is configured to instruct the air induction device to begin drawing the air, and instruct the valve to open to permit the air to enter the battery pack and cool each of the battery cells and dilute the battery gases generated by the plurality of battery cells.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01M 50/375 - Vent means sensitive to or responsive to temperature
• H01M 10/613 - Cooling or keeping cold
• H01M 10/625 - Vehicles
• H01M 10/63 - Control systems
• H01M 10/6563 - Gases with forced flow, e.g. by blowers
• H01M 50/249 - MountingsSecondary casings or framesRacks, modules or packsSuspension devicesShock absorbersTransport or carrying devicesHolders specially adapted for aircraft or vehicles, e.g. cars or trains
• H01M 50/317 - Re-sealable arrangements

Abstract

A vehicle license plate bracket has a base to mount a license plate, The base is coupled with a brace. The brace secures the bracket to the vehicle. A pivot rotates the base between a first vertical and a second horizontal position. A controller activates the pivot to rotate the base between the positions.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60R 13/10 - Registration, licensing, or like devices

Abstract

A microcontroller unit (MCU) is configured to provide the command to a power management integrated circuit (PMIC) to power up or reset a system-on-chip (SoC) and to handle errors and statuses of an SoC bootup phase by commanding the PMIC to power up the SoC, monitoring for a first response from the primary bootloader indicating the bootup phase was successful, commanding the PMIC to reset the SoC when the first response is not received from the primary bootloader within a first timeout period, selectively requesting the secondary bootloader to switch from a first partition to a second partition for the bootup phase, and after resetting the SoC, completing the bootup phase using the secondary bootloader and the first or second partition.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06F 1/3212 - Monitoring battery levels, e.g. power saving mode being initiated when battery voltage goes below a certain level
• G06F 1/3234 - Power saving characterised by the action undertaken
• G06F 1/3293 - Power saving characterised by the action undertaken by switching to a less power-consuming processor, e.g. sub-CPU

Abstract

The invention relates to an electric motor vehicle, comprising a battery pack and a range extender comprising a two-stage intercooled recuperated gas turbine (100) operating on an IRReGT cycle, comprising a first compressor (101) and a first turbine (104) which are connected by a low-pressure shaft (111), a second compressor (102) and a second turbine (103) which are connected by a high-pressure shaft (112), an intercooler exchanger (105) arranged to cool the air between the first compressor (101) and the second compressor (102), and a heat recuperation loop, arranged to recover energy, at said intercooler exchanger (105) or/and at the bearings (P) of said low-pressure shaft (111) and high-pressure shaft (112), or/and at a heat recuperator (106), in particular a heat recuperation loop operating on an Organic Rankine Cycle ORC or Steam Rankine Cycle SRC.

IPC Classes  ?

• F02C 6/00 - Plural gas-turbine plantsCombinations of gas-turbine plants with other apparatusAdaptations of gas-turbine plants for special use
• B60L 50/50 - Electric propulsion with power supplied within the vehicle using propulsion power supplied by batteries or fuel cells
• F02C 6/20 - Adaptations of gas-turbine plants for driving vehicles
• F02C 7/143 - Cooling of plants of fluids in the plant of working fluid before or between the compressor stages

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for managing the operation of a human-machine interface (2) of a hybrid or electric motor vehicle (1), the human-machine interface (2) comprising at least one screen (3) arranged in the passenger compartment of the vehicle, the light intensity of which is adjustable. The invention also relates to a device (100) for carrying out such a method, and to a motor vehicle (1) comprising such a device.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60K 35/10 - Input arrangements, i.e. from user to vehicle, associated with vehicle functions or specially adapted therefor
• B60K 35/22 - Display screens

Abstract

A system and method of operating a vehicle includes determining a condition of the vehicle, changing a camber of at least one tire in response to the condition and changing a contact patch from a first portion of the at least one tire from a first portion to a second portion. The first portion has different rolling characteristics from the first portion.

IPC Classes  ?

• B62D 17/00 - Means on vehicle for adjusting camber, castor, or toe-in
• B60G 17/015 - Resilient suspensions having means for adjusting the spring or vibration-damper characteristics, for regulating the distance between a supporting surface and a sprung part of vehicle or for locking suspension during use to meet varying vehicular or surface conditions, e.g. due to speed or load the regulating means comprising electric or electronic elements

Abstract

An engine system includes an engine including intake and exhaust camshafts, a transmission, a turbocharger including a compressor and a turbine, a surge valve to selectively bypass the compressor, a main exhaust aftertreatment system with a main catalytic converter, and a light-off catalyst bypass system with a bypass valve configured to selectively provide exhaust gas to a bypass passage and a bypass catalytic converter. An emissions control system includes a controller configured to monitor a temperature of the main catalytic converter to determine if the temperature is below a light-off temperature, move the bypass valve to an open position to provide exhaust gas flow through the bypass passage and bypass catalytic converter when the main catalytic converter is below the predetermined light-off temperature, and move the surge valve to an open position to enable intake air to bypass the compressor to minimize pressure loss during a cold catalyst mode.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01N 3/20 - Exhaust or silencing apparatus having means for purifying, rendering innocuous, or otherwise treating exhaust for rendering innocuous by thermal or catalytic conversion of noxious components of exhaust characterised by methods of operationControl specially adapted for catalytic conversion
• B60W 10/10 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of change-speed gearings
• F01L 1/34 - Valve-gear or valve arrangements, e.g. lift-valve gear characterised by the provision of means for changing the timing of the valves without changing the duration of opening
• F02D 23/02 - Controlling engines characterised by their being supercharged the engines being of fuel-injection type
• F02D 29/02 - Controlling engines, such controlling being peculiar to the devices driven thereby, the devices being other than parts or accessories essential to engine operation, e.g. controlling of engines by signals external thereto peculiar to engines driving vehiclesControlling engines, such controlling being peculiar to the devices driven thereby, the devices being other than parts or accessories essential to engine operation, e.g. controlling of engines by signals external thereto peculiar to engines driving variable-pitch propellers
• F02D 43/04 - Conjoint electrical control of two or more functions, e.g. ignition, fuel-air mixture, recirculation, supercharging or exhaust-gas treatment using only digital means
• F02P 5/15 - Digital data processing

Abstract

A vehicle mode triggered control system for a vehicle includes a hybrid control processor (HCP) configured to detect a current operating mode of the vehicle, determine a set of inactive sub-systems of a set of sub-systems of the vehicle that are not configured to operate during the current operating mode of the vehicle, wherein each of the set of sub-systems is configured to for limited mode-based operation and not during a full operating period of the vehicle, and execute application software including a plurality of application functions by executing a first set of application functions of the plurality of application functions at a first rate and executing a second set of application functions of the plurality of application functions at a slower second rate, wherein the second set of application functions are limited to one or more of the set of inactive sub-systems.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60W 30/182 - Selecting between different operative modes, e.g. comfort and performance modes
• B60W 20/10 - Controlling the power contribution of each of the prime movers to meet required power demand

Abstract

A method for designing an accelerated battery aging testing protocol from battery electric vehicle usage data is provided. An initial search space database is created based on a collection of vehicle usage data. The usage data includes current demand over a first timeframe. Data compression is performed including classifying the database into specific segments representing use events. A synthetic profile is generated including a sequence of elements having a battery current and a battery state of charge (SOC) for selected segments of the specific segments. An optimization for accelerated aging of the battery is defined. A genetic algorithm (GA) is executed that generates the accelerated battery aging testing protocol requiring a second timeframe, shorter than the first timeframe, based on the optimization.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60L 58/16 - Methods or circuit arrangements for monitoring or controlling batteries or fuel cells, specially adapted for electric vehicles for monitoring or controlling batteries responding to battery ageing, e.g. to the number of charging cycles or the state of health [SoH]
• B60L 58/12 - Methods or circuit arrangements for monitoring or controlling batteries or fuel cells, specially adapted for electric vehicles for monitoring or controlling batteries responding to state of charge [SoC]
• G01R 31/367 - Software therefor, e.g. for battery testing using modelling or look-up tables
• G01R 31/392 - Determining battery ageing or deterioration, e.g. state of health
• G07C 5/04 - Registering or indicating driving, working, idle, or waiting time only using counting means or digital clocks

Abstract

A system for assembling an onboard charger (OBC) for an electrified vehicle according to the present disclosure includes a tooling head, a first manipulator, and a second manipulator. The tooling head is coupled for movement with a robotic arm assembly. The first manipulator is coupled to a first arm extending from the tooling head and is configured to engage a first printed circuit board assembly (PCBA). The second manipulator is coupled to a second arm extending from the tooling head and is configured to engage a second PCBA. The first and second manipulators are configured to move the first and second PCBA's onto distinct sides of the OBC while the OBC remains static.

IPC Classes  ?

• B25J 9/00 - Programme-controlled manipulators
• B60L 53/22 - Constructional details or arrangements of charging converters specially adapted for charging electric vehicles

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for controlling a graphical interface displayed on a vehicle screen. The method comprises obtaining (201) map data identifying at least one low emission zone, obtaining (202) a current position of the vehicle and obtaining (203) video frames from an image acquisition device that are representative of a scene ahead of the vehicle. On determining (204; 209) the presence of a boundary of the at least one low emission zone in a field of view of the image acquisition device, displaying (206; 210) a graphical interface comprising the acquired image and navigation information relating to the boundary of the at least one low emission zone, wherein at least one graphical element is positioned in the at least one image according to the current position of the vehicle and of a position of the boundary.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01C 21/34 - Route searchingRoute guidance
• G01C 21/36 - Input/output arrangements for on-board computers
• B60K 35/23 - Head-up displays [HUD]
• G02B 27/00 - Optical systems or apparatus not provided for by any of the groups ,
• G06V 20/20 - ScenesScene-specific elements in augmented reality scenes

Abstract

An active aerodynamic vehicle underbody spare tire assembly improves airflow dynamics and reduces drag at an underbody and rearend of a vehicle, ultimately extending vehicle battery range in an electric vehicle and providing better fuel economy in a gas-powered vehicle. The active aerodynamic vehicle underbody spare tire assembly moves the spare tire between a stowed position and a deployed position based on vehicle speed. At lower vehicle speeds, the spare tire is kept at the stowed position. And at higher vehicle speeds, the spare tire is moved to the deployed position. In varying implementations, the active aerodynamic vehicle underbody spare tire assembly can include a spare tire carrier, an actuator, and a spare tire cover.

IPC Classes  ?

• B62D 43/04 - Spare wheel stowing, holding, or mounting arrangements external to the vehicle body attached beneath the vehicle body
• B62D 35/02 - Streamlining the undersurfaces

Abstract

In at least some implementations, a method of detecting a wireless device in or on a vehicle, includes detecting a wireless signal that includes identification information, comparing the identification information with a registry of authorized devices to determine if the identification information corresponds to one of the authorized devices, and providing an output when the identification information does not correspond to one of the authorized devices to indicate that an unauthorized device is present in or on the vehicle.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04W 12/121 - Wireless intrusion detection systems [WIDS]Wireless intrusion prevention systems [WIPS]
• H04W 8/00 - Network data management

Abstract

A synchronous high voltage control system for a fuel cell battery electric vehicle (FCBEV) includes a fuel cell propulsion system (FCPS) configured to control a fuel cell system of an electrified powertrain of the FCBEV based on a mode control signal, wherein FCPS is configured to control the fuel cell to selectively support a high voltage bus, and an electrified vehicle control unit (EVCU) configured to (i) supervise a battery pack control module (BPCM) that is configured to control contactors to connect or disconnect a high voltage battery system to and from the high voltage bus and (ii) generate the mode control signal for the FCPS, wherein the EVCU is configured to utilize the mode control signal to have synchronous behavior across all high voltage systems of the FCBEV including the high voltage battery system and the fuel cell system.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60L 50/75 - Electric propulsion with power supplied within the vehicle using propulsion power supplied by batteries or fuel cells using propulsion power supplied by both fuel cells and batteries
• B60L 58/40 - Methods or circuit arrangements for monitoring or controlling batteries or fuel cells, specially adapted for electric vehicles for controlling a combination of batteries and fuel cells
• B60L 3/00 - Electric devices on electrically-propelled vehicles for safety purposesMonitoring operating variables, e.g. speed, deceleration or energy consumption

Abstract

An expedited start-up procedure of an electrified vehicle involves a hybrid control processor (HCP) connected to a controller area network (CAN) having electrified powertrain (ePT) modules and an auxiliary HCP (AHCP) connected to the CAN and connected to the HCP via a hardwire wakeup line. In response to a start-up request, the HCP initializes the start-up procedure in which it sends a wakeup signal to the AHCP via the hardwire wakeup line, performs shutoff path testing via a first CAN bus, and confirms enabled ePT modules communication via a second CAN bus to complete the start-up procedure. In response to the wakeup signal from the HCP, the AHCP initializes and then participates in the start-up procedure in which it wakes up and enables communication by the plurality of ePT modules via the second CAN bus. A duration of the start-up procedure is less than a customer annoyance threshold.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04L 12/12 - Arrangements for remote connection or disconnection of substations or of equipment thereof

Abstract

A method of operating an electrified vehicle having a front axle disconnect is provided. A powertrain supervisor controller determines that the electrified vehicle needs to be secured due to an internal reason. The powertrain supervisor controller determines whether a front axle status is one of faulted or disengaged. The powertrain supervisor controller requests, based on the front axle status being faulted, engagement of an electronic park brake when securement conditions are active. A message indicative of a front axle disconnect status is displayed at a human machine interface.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60W 30/18 - Propelling the vehicle
• B60W 50/02 - Ensuring safety in case of control system failures, e.g. by diagnosing, circumventing or fixing failures
• B60W 50/14 - Means for informing the driver, warning the driver or prompting a driver intervention

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for controlling a multi-depth head-up display, comprising the following steps: - receiving a measurement of a power recovered by an energy harvester (150), - receiving a measurement of a power consumed by a motor (130), - if the measurement of the recovered power is non-zero, determining a second focal length, and otherwise, if the measurement of the consumed power is non-zero, determining a fourth focal length strictly greater than the second focal length, - commanding a projection device (120) to project a graphical element onto a windshield (140) at each focal length of a set of at least one focal length, the set of at least one focal length extending to an end focal length, the end focal length being the second focal length if the measurement of the recovered power is non-zero, and otherwise the fourth focal length if the measurement of the consumed power is non-zero.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60K 35/233 - Head-up displays [HUD] controlling the size or position in display areas of virtual images depending on the condition of the vehicle or the driver
• B60K 35/29 - Instruments characterised by the way in which information is handled, e.g. showing information on plural displays or prioritising information according to driving conditions
• B60K 35/81 - Arrangements for controlling instruments for controlling displays
• G02B 27/01 - Head-up displays

Abstract

Disclosed is a vehicle roof panel formed as a multilayer laminate having an outer shield layer, one or more solar cell laminate layers, and an internal electrochromic layer. The shield layer and the one or more solar cell laminate layers are transparent. The roof panel also may have a user controllable electrical input connected to the electrochromic layer whereby the user can adjust an electrical input to the electrochromic layer there by controlling its transparency from greater than 70% transparent to non-transparent. In the roof panel the one or more solar cell laminate layers are located between the shield layer and the electrochromic layer. The roof panel provides a convenient way to charge the batteries of electric vehicles and hybrid electric vehicles while allowing for user controllable dimming of the roof panel.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01L 31/0216 - Coatings
• B62D 25/06 - Fixed roofs
• H01L 31/048 - Encapsulation of modules
• H01L 31/07 - SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES NOT COVERED BY CLASS - Details thereof adapted as photovoltaic [PV] conversion devices characterised by at least one potential-jump barrier or surface barrier the potential barriers being only of the Schottky type

Abstract

A system and method of operating a rear closure assembly mounted to a rear portion of a vehicle is provided. The method includes receiving data indicative of a whether an object is detected near the rear portion of the vehicle; determining whether the detected object will obstruct the rear closure assembly from moving between a closed position to a maximum open position based on the data; and providing a response to an operator of the vehicle when the rear closure assembly will be obstructed from moving between the closed position to the maximum open position.

IPC Classes  ?

• E05F 15/40 - Safety devices, e.g. detection of obstructions or end positions
• B60J 5/10 - Doors arranged at the vehicle rear

Abstract

A vehicle including a vehicle frame, a wheel attached to the vehicle frame, and an anti-tip device attached to the vehicle frame. The anti-tip device includes a deflector assembly having a deflector section that extends angularly outward from the vehicle frame and a tail section unitary with deflector section that extends along and in parallel with a length of the vehicle frame, and the anti-tip device is configured, in the event of an offset frontal impact to the vehicle that forces the wheel in a direction toward the vehicle frame, to be struck by the wheel and deflect the wheel in a direction away from the vehicle frame to prevent the wheel from travelling beneath the vehicle frame.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60R 21/13 - Roll-over protection
• B62D 21/15 - Understructures, i.e. chassis frame on which a vehicle body may be mounted having impact absorbing means, e.g. a frame designed to permanently or temporarily change shape or dimension upon impact with another body

Abstract

Software security techniques for a vehicle include defining a plurality of waypoints within the plurality of operations of a software executed by a control system of the vehicle and defining a plurality of operations, applying Gödel numbering to the software by (i) assigning a unique integer to each of the plurality of waypoints and (ii) assigning a unique prime number to each sequential operation of the plurality of operations, calculating a Gödel number for an executed sequence of the plurality of operations, comparing the calculated Gödel number to a set of acceptable Gödel numbers corresponding to a set of acceptable sequences for executing the plurality of operations, and when the calculated Gödel number does not match any of the set of acceptable Gödel numbers, controlling, by the control system, a vehicle sub-system according to a remedial or corrective action.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06F 11/07 - Responding to the occurrence of a fault, e.g. fault tolerance
• B60W 10/20 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of steering systems

Abstract

A control system for an engine comprising a turbocharger includes a cold light off catalyst (CLOC), a CLOC valve, and a controller. The CLOC is positioned in a bypass passage around a turbine of the turbocharger. The CLOC valve selectively routes exhaust flow from the engine between the turbine and the CLOC. The controller is configured to determine an engine torque request; determine an intake manifold pressure target; determine whether an intake manifold pressure target is greater than a barometric pressure; command the CLOC valve to a first position whereby exhaust flow is routed, at least partially, to the CLOC in a CLOC mode based on the intake manifold pressure target is not greater than the barometric pressure; and command the CLOC valve to a second position whereby exhaust flow is routed fully to the turbocharger based on the intake manifold pressure target is greater than the barometric pressure.

IPC Classes  ?

• F02B 37/18 - Control of the pumps by bypassing exhaust
• F01N 3/28 - Construction of catalytic reactors
• F02B 37/12 - Control of the pumps
• F02B 37/22 - Control of the pumps by varying the cross-section of exhaust passages or air passages
• F02D 41/00 - Electrical control of supply of combustible mixture or its constituents
• F02D 41/18 - Circuit arrangements for generating control signals by measuring intake air flow

Abstract

A control system for an engine comprising a turbocharger includes a cold light off catalyst (CLOC), a CLOC valve, and a controller. The CLOC is positioned in a bypass passage around a turbine of the turbocharger. The CLOC valve selectively routes exhaust flow from the engine between the turbine and the CLOC. The controller is configured to command the CLOC valve to a first position whereby exhaust flow is routed to the CLOC in a CLOC mode; determine, based on operation in the CLOC mode, a pressure of the turbine of the turbocharger; compare the determined pressure to a pressure threshold; determine a target position of the CLOC valve to mitigate oil leakage from the turbocharger during CLOC operation; and command the CLOC valve to the target position.

IPC Classes  ?

• F02B 37/18 - Control of the pumps by bypassing exhaust
• F01N 3/20 - Exhaust or silencing apparatus having means for purifying, rendering innocuous, or otherwise treating exhaust for rendering innocuous by thermal or catalytic conversion of noxious components of exhaust characterised by methods of operationControl specially adapted for catalytic conversion
• F01N 3/28 - Construction of catalytic reactors
• F02B 37/12 - Control of the pumps
• F02B 37/22 - Control of the pumps by varying the cross-section of exhaust passages or air passages
• F02D 41/00 - Electrical control of supply of combustible mixture or its constituents

Abstract

A vehicle system, includes an air intake assembly including an inlet through which air flows, a filter downstream of the inlet, and an outlet downstream of the filter through which air from the filter flows, a liquid source, a valve, a temperature indicator and a controller. The valve is electrically actuated and arranged to selectively permit liquid flow from the liquid source to the air intake assembly. The temperature indicator provides an indication of a temperature in the air intake assembly upstream of the filter. And the controller is communicated with the temperature indicator and the valve and operable to open the valve when the output of the temperature indicator indicates a temperature above a temperature threshold.

IPC Classes  ?

• F02M 31/04 - Apparatus for thermally treating combustion-air, fuel, or fuel-air mixture for heating combustion-air or fuel-air mixture
• F02M 31/07 - Temperature-responsive control, e.g. using thermostatically-controlled valves

Abstract

In at least some implementations, a vehicle has a windshield, a display transmitter having an output through which light is emitted onto at least part of the windshield, a sensor responsive to the one or both of a position of the windshield and the presence of a reflective surface associated with the windshield and onto which light is emitted from the display transmitter, and a controller. The controller is coupled to the display transmitter and is operable to change a mode of the display transmitter when the sensor does not detect the windshield in a home position or when the sensor does not detect the presence of the reflective surface.

IPC Classes  ?

• G09G 3/00 - Control arrangements or circuits, of interest only in connection with visual indicators other than cathode-ray tubes
• B60K 35/234 - Head-up displays [HUD] controlling the brightness, colour or contrast of virtual images depending on the driving conditions or on the condition of the vehicle or the driver
• B60K 35/81 - Arrangements for controlling instruments for controlling displays

Goods & Services

(1) Land vehicles, namely, passenger automobiles (1) Promoting the sale of goods and services of others by dissemination of promotional materials and product information in the automotive industry through an online global computer network, through the distribution of printed material, audio and video recordings, television and radio recordings, online advertising, and promotional contests

Goods & Services

Promoting the sale of goods and services of others by dissemination of promotional materials and product information in the automotive industry through an online global computer network, through the distribution of printed material, audio and video recordings, television and radio recordings, online advertising, and promotional contests Land vehicles, namely, passenger automobiles

Abstract

An energy management technique for an electrified vehicle controls an electrified powertrain to maintain a fuel reserve in a fuel tank, wherein the fuel reserve is a threshold amount above a minimum amount of fuel that is kept in the fuel tank while indicating that the fuel tank is fully depleted, detects an operating condition of the electrified vehicle when (i) the fuel tank is depleted down to the fuel reserve and (ii) a battery system state of charge (SOC) is at or below a minimum SOC propulsion threshold and, in response to detecting the electrified vehicle operating condition, temporarily powers the engine using the fuel reserve in the fuel tank and utilize the engine to support a heating system of the electrified vehicle configured for at least window heating and/or defrosting.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60W 20/18 - Control strategies specially adapted for achieving a particular effect for avoiding ageing of fuel
• B60W 10/30 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of auxiliary equipment, e.g. air-conditioning compressors or oil pumps
• B60W 20/13 - Controlling the power contribution of each of the prime movers to meet required power demand in order to stay within battery power input or output limitsControlling the power contribution of each of the prime movers to meet required power demand in order to prevent overcharging or battery depletion

Abstract

An engine system that delivers torque to a driveline of a vehicle includes an internal combustion engine (ICE), a manifold, a compressor and a controller. The manifold selectively communicates air into the ICE. The compressor is driven by an electric motor and is configured to deliver air toward and away from the manifold. The controller determines an ICE start request and, based on the ICE start request, sends a signal to the electric motor to rotate the compressor in a direction that moves air out of the manifold. The eCompressor is used to deplete air in the manifold before starting the ICE. As a result, a reduction in fuel used and therefore a reduction in emissions at startup is achieved.

IPC Classes  ?

• F02D 41/06 - Introducing corrections for particular operating conditions for engine starting or warming up
• F02B 39/10 - Non-mechanical drives, e.g. fluid drives having variable gear ratio electric
• F02D 41/00 - Electrical control of supply of combustible mixture or its constituents

Abstract

A method for detecting a source of a misfire for an engine having turbulent jet ignition (TJI) during a service routine is presented. A diagnostic tool is coupled to an engine controller of the TJI engine. An increase in revolutions per minute (RPM) of the TJI engine is commanded. An engine roughness is measured and a baseline engine roughness for the TJI engine while all cylinders are in an active state is established. A first main spark plug is commanded to deactivate. A first test engine roughness of the TJI engine is measured based on the first main spark plug being deactivated. The baseline engine roughness is compared to the first test engine roughness. A determination is made, based on the comparison, whether the first pre-chamber is fouled.

IPC Classes  ?

• F02P 17/12 - Testing characteristics of the spark, ignition voltage or current
• F02P 9/00 - Electric spark ignition control, not otherwise provided for
• G01M 15/11 - Testing internal-combustion engines by detecting misfire

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method and device for controlling a display system of a vehicle. For this purpose, first data of a request to display first indicators (211, 212, 213) belonging to a first category of indicators are received. A display of the first indicators (211, 212, 213) is controlled in order to display these first indicators in a first predetermined region (21) of a display screen (13) of the display system, the first predetermined region (21) having a size which is configured to display a predetermined maximum number of indicators. When a number of first indicators to be displayed is greater than the predetermined maximum number, the display of the first indicators is controlled in order to display the first indicators by means of sequential scrolling in the first predetermined region (21).

IPC Classes  ?

• B60K 35/22 - Display screens
• B60K 35/81 - Arrangements for controlling instruments for controlling displays
• B60K 35/90 - Calibration of instruments, e.g. setting initial or reference parametersTesting of instruments, e.g. detecting malfunction

Abstract

An engine system that delivers torque to a driveline of a vehicle includes an internal combustion engine (ICE), a manifold, an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) circuit, an electric turbine (eTurbine) and a controller. The EGR circuit has an EGR valve that selectively moves between open and closed positions. The eTurbine is driven by an electric motor and is configured to deliver air away from the manifold. The controller determines an ICE start request and, based on the ICE start request, sends a signal to the EGR valve to open thereby fluidly connecting the manifold and the eTurbine. The controller sends a signal to the eTurbine to rotate and move air out of the manifold through the EGR circuit. The eTurbine is used to deplete air in the manifold before starting the ICE. As a result, a reduction in fuel used and therefore a reduction in emissions at startup is achieved.

IPC Classes  ?

• F02D 41/00 - Electrical control of supply of combustible mixture or its constituents
• F02D 41/06 - Introducing corrections for particular operating conditions for engine starting or warming up

Abstract

An air intake duct configured to provide intake air to a first component and a second component. The duct includes a first conduit that provides the intake air to the first component and a second conduit that provides the intake air to the second component, wherein an air direction feature in the form of an elongated ridge is formed in the air intake duct at an intersection between the first conduit and the second conduit, and the air direction feature is located and oriented in the air intake duct to control an amount of the intake air that is permitted to enter each of the first conduit and the second conduit, and to control a swirl direction of the intake air as the intake air travels over elongated ridge and enters each of the first conduit and the second conduit.

IPC Classes  ?

• F15D 1/04 - Arrangements of guide vanes in pipe elbows or duct bendsConstruction of pipe conduit elements for elbows with respect to flow, e.g. for reducing losses of flow
• F02M 35/10 - Air intakesInduction systems
• F16L 41/02 - Branch units, e.g. made in one piece, welded, riveted

Abstract

A synchronous high voltage control system for a fuel cell battery electric vehicle (FCBEV) includes a fuel cell propulsion system (FCPS) configured to control a fuel cell system of an electrified powertrain of the FCBEV based on a mode control signal, wherein FCPS is configured to control the fuel cell to selectively support a high voltage bus, and an electrified vehicle control unit (EVCU) configured to (i) supervise a battery pack control module (BPCM) that is configured to control contactors to connect or disconnect a high voltage battery system to and from the high voltage bus and (ii) generate the mode control signal for the FCPS, wherein the EVCU is configured to utilize the mode control signal to have synchronous behavior across all high voltage systems of the FCBEV including the high voltage battery system and the fuel cell system.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60L 50/75 - Electric propulsion with power supplied within the vehicle using propulsion power supplied by batteries or fuel cells using propulsion power supplied by both fuel cells and batteries
• B60L 3/00 - Electric devices on electrically-propelled vehicles for safety purposesMonitoring operating variables, e.g. speed, deceleration or energy consumption
• B60L 3/12 - Recording operating variables

Abstract

An expedited start-up procedure of an electrified vehicle involves a hybrid control processor (HCP) connected to a controller area network (CAN) having electrified powertrain (ePT) modules and an auxiliary HCP (AHCP) connected to the CAN and connected to the HCP via a hardwire wakeup line. In response to a start-up request, the HCP initializes the start-up procedure in which it sends a wakeup signal to the AHCP via the hardwire wakeup line, performs shutoff path testing via a first CAN bus, and confirms enabled ePT modules communication via a second CAN bus to complete the start-up procedure. In response to the wakeup signal from the HCP, the AHCP initializes and then participates in the start-up procedure in which it wakes up and enables communication by the plurality of ePT modules via the second CAN bus. A duration of the start-up procedure is less than a customer annoyance threshold.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60L 15/20 - Methods, circuits or devices for controlling the propulsion of electrically-propelled vehicles, e.g. their traction-motor speed, to achieve a desired performanceAdaptation of control equipment on electrically-propelled vehicles for remote actuation from a stationary place, from alternative parts of the vehicle or from alternative vehicles of the same vehicle train for control of the vehicle or its driving motor to achieve a desired performance, e.g. speed, torque, programmed variation of speed
• B60R 16/023 - Electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided forArrangement of elements of electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided for electric for transmission of signals between vehicle parts or subsystems

Abstract

In at least some implementations, a remote entry device includes a body comprising a first portion and a second portion, and a transmitter assembly arranged between the first portion and the second portion. The transmitter assembly includes a first cover, a second cover having a battery receptacle with a central axis, an inwardly extending first battery retention surface, and one or more retaining members each having an inwardly extending battery retention surface axially spaced from the first battery retention surface of the second cover. And the device includes a printed circuit board assembly arranged between the first cover and the second cover.

IPC Classes  ?

• G07C 9/00 - Individual registration on entry or exit

Abstract

A method of operating an electrified vehicle having a front axle disconnect is provided. A powertrain supervisor controller determines that the electrified vehicle needs to be secured due to an internal reason. The powertrain supervisor controller determines whether a front axle status is one of faulted or disengaged. The powertrain supervisor controller requests, based on the front axle status being faulted, engagement of an electronic park brake when securement conditions are active. A message indicative of a front axle disconnect status is displayed at a human machine interface.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60W 50/14 - Means for informing the driver, warning the driver or prompting a driver intervention
• B60W 10/18 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of braking systems
• B60W 40/076 - Slope angle of the road
• B60W 50/02 - Ensuring safety in case of control system failures, e.g. by diagnosing, circumventing or fixing failures

Abstract

A torque limiting flex plate assembly includes a flex plate configured to couple to a crankshaft of an internal combustion engine of a vehicle, and a torque limiting clutch assembly integrated with the flex plate. The torque limiting clutch assembly is in frictional engagement with the flex plate such that the torque limiting clutch assembly and the flex plate are coupled for common rotation during normal engine operation. Upon receiving a torque spike from a transmission input shaft, the torque limiting clutch assembly is configured to slip such that the flex plate and the torque limiting clutch assembly rotate independently at different speeds to thereby prevent the torque spike from being transferred through the flex plate to the internal combustion engine.

IPC Classes  ?

• F16D 7/02 - Slip couplings, e.g. slipping on overload, for absorbing shock of the friction type

Abstract

Title of the invention: The invention relates to a motor vehicle comprising a multi-plane head-up display system managing the brightness of each motor vehicle (VHL) plane comprising a multi-plane HUD (DTH), a display control module (MCA) of the multi-plane HUD (DTH) and a control interface (ECM) for controlling the brightness of planes of the multi-plane HUD (DTH), coupled with the control module (MCA); the display control module (MCA) being capable of controlling a modification of the light intensity of the light beams in relation to each of the planes or groups of planes determined, according to a setpoint value of the adjustment level set by the user, of the brightness for each of the planes or group of determined planes, from the control interface (ECM); each of the planes or group of determined planes being identified on the interface (ECM).

IPC Classes  ?

• B60K 35/10 - Input arrangements, i.e. from user to vehicle, associated with vehicle functions or specially adapted therefor
• B60K 35/232 - Head-up displays [HUD] controlling the projection distance of virtual images depending on the condition of the vehicle or the driver
• B60K 35/233 - Head-up displays [HUD] controlling the size or position in display areas of virtual images depending on the condition of the vehicle or the driver
• B60K 35/234 - Head-up displays [HUD] controlling the brightness, colour or contrast of virtual images depending on the driving conditions or on the condition of the vehicle or the driver
• G02B 27/01 - Head-up displays

Abstract

A control system that controls speed of an internal combustion engine (ICE) in a series hybrid vehicle includes an accelerator pedal, a vehicle speed sensor and a controller. The accelerator pedal sends a torque request signal. The vehicle speed sensor sends a vehicle speed signal. The controller receives the torque request signal and the vehicle speed signal. The controller is configured to calculate, based on the torque request and vehicle speed signals, a driver power request; calculate engine power limits including (i) a maximum engine power that includes the driver power request plus an upper offset; and (ii) a minimum engine power that includes the driver power request minus a lower offset; select a most efficient engine operating point between the maximum and minimum power; and control the ICE to operate at the most efficient engine operating point.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60W 10/06 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of propulsion units including control of combustion engines

Abstract

An internal combustion engine system includes an internal combustion engine, an exhaust aftertreatment system with a catalytic converter configured to receive exhaust gas from the internal combustion engine, and a light-off catalyst system including an electrolyzer configured to perform an electrolysis of water to produce a mixture of hydrogen and oxygen gases. A conduit is in fluid communication between the electrolyzer and an intake of the internal combustion engine. A controller is configured to supply the mixture of hydrogen and oxygen gases to the engine intake during a cold start to facilitate rapidly warming the catalytic converter to a light-off temperature.

IPC Classes  ?

• F02D 41/06 - Introducing corrections for particular operating conditions for engine starting or warming up
• F02D 13/02 - Controlling the engine output power by varying inlet or exhaust valve operating characteristics, e.g. timing during engine operation
• F02D 41/00 - Electrical control of supply of combustible mixture or its constituents
• F02D 41/02 - Circuit arrangements for generating control signals
• F02D 41/38 - Controlling fuel injection of the high pressure type
• F02M 27/04 - Apparatus for treating combustion-air, fuel, or fuel-air mixture, by catalysts, electric means, magnetism, rays, sonic waves, or the like by electric means or magnetism

Abstract

A vehicle system for a hybrid electric vehicle that implements a transmission clutch support mode during a stop of the vehicle includes a hybrid powertrain, a brake system, a clutch and a controller. The hybrid powertrain includes an internal combustion engine and an electric motor that provides motor torque to a driveline for propelling the vehicle. The brake system selectively provides brake torque to drive wheels based on application of a brake pedal. The clutch opens and closes to engage the powertrain with the driveline. The controller initiates clutch support mode and determines whether a brake pedal release has been detected; commands a brake hold that maintains brake pressure of the brake system subsequent to detection of the brake pedal release; and commands the clutch to move to an engaged position while cancelling the brake hold resulting in concurrent blend-out of the brake torque and blend-in of the motor torque.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60W 10/02 - Conjoint control of vehicle sub-units of different type or different function including control of driveline clutches
• B60W 20/40 - Controlling the engagement or disengagement of prime movers, e.g. for transition between prime movers

Abstract

An internal combustion engine system includes an internal combustion engine, a main exhaust aftertreatment system with a main catalytic converter configured to receive exhaust gas from the internal combustion engine, and a turbocharger turbine selectively rotatable in a first direction for a normal operation and an opposite second direction for a reverse rotation operation. A light-off catalyst bypass system with a bypass passage and a bypass catalytic converter is configured to selectively receive exhaust gas from the internal combustion engine and bypass the turbine. During cold start, long idle, and/or low main catalytic converter temperature conditions, the turbine is rotated in the second direction to restrict or prevent exhaust gas from flowing through the turbine to facilitate directing the exhaust gas through the bypass passage and the bypass catalytic converter.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01N 3/20 - Exhaust or silencing apparatus having means for purifying, rendering innocuous, or otherwise treating exhaust for rendering innocuous by thermal or catalytic conversion of noxious components of exhaust characterised by methods of operationControl specially adapted for catalytic conversion
• F01N 3/28 - Construction of catalytic reactors
• F02B 37/12 - Control of the pumps
• F02B 39/10 - Non-mechanical drives, e.g. fluid drives having variable gear ratio electric

Abstract

A method of processing high-strength steel includes providing a first piece of high-strength steel. Friction stir processing the first piece of high strength steel is performed by pre-heating an area in advance of a friction stir welding tool and moving the friction stir welding tool between 500 mm and 300 mm per minute to attain a mixed zone having a mixed zone temperature at the mixed zone between a eutectoid temperature and a forge welding temperature from a combination of the friction from the friction welding tool and the step of pre-heating.

IPC Classes  ?

• B23K 20/12 - Non-electric welding by applying impact or other pressure, with or without the application of heat, e.g. cladding or plating the heat being generated by frictionFriction welding
• B23K 20/24 - Preliminary treatment
• B23K 20/26 - Auxiliary equipment
• B23K 103/04 - Steel alloys

Abstract

In at least some implementations, a method for initiating a test cycle in a vehicle diagnostic includes determining if vehicle operation parameters meet enablement criteria for a test cycle, determining a time to an impediment, comparing the time to the impediment to a duration of the test cycle, and initiating the test cycle when the time to the impediment is greater than the duration of the test cycle, and not initiating the test cycle when the time to the impediment is less than the duration of the test cycle.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60W 50/02 - Ensuring safety in case of control system failures, e.g. by diagnosing, circumventing or fixing failures
• F02D 41/22 - Safety or indicating devices for abnormal conditions
• F02P 5/15 - Digital data processing

Abstract

A pedestrian alert system and method that gather vehicle route information from a host vehicle and pedestrian route information from mobile device(s) associated with one or more nearby pedestrian(s) and, in certain scenarios, alert the driver of the host vehicle to the presence of the pedestrian(s). The system may include a vehicle electronic module with a data storage unit, an electronic control unit, one or more application(s) and a communications unit, along with a navigation control module and a user interface.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60W 50/14 - Means for informing the driver, warning the driver or prompting a driver intervention
• B60W 40/105 - Speed

Abstract

The invention relates to a method and device for providing information about an operating anomaly affecting a vehicle, the method comprising the following steps: - receiving (210) a generated text; - determining (220) a list of labels based on the received text and on a first predetermined model; - receiving (230) first data; - receiving (240) second data; - determining (250) a first list of words based on the list of labels, on the first and second data and on a predetermined knowledge graph; - determining (260) a second list of words based on the first list of words, on the second data and on a second predetermined model; - determining (270) a list of sentences based on the second list of words and on a third predetermined model; - transmitting (280) the list of sentences to the audio system in order to provide information about the operating anomaly affecting the vehicle through voice synthesis.

IPC Classes  ?

• G10L 15/183 - Speech classification or search using natural language modelling using context dependencies, e.g. language models
• G06F 40/40 - Processing or translation of natural language

Abstract

A method of communicating vehicle identification information in a suspected stolen vehicle includes the steps of determining an occurrence of a stolen vehicle event and providing a notification in the vehicle that includes at least one vehicle identifier. The occurrence of a stolen vehicle event may be determined by the vehicle being reported as stolen or if the vehicle loses connection to the network for a predetermined amount of time. If a stolen vehicle event has occurred, a notification is made in the vehicle. The notification may be a vehicle identifier communicated to a user of a vehicle through a display, speaker, or other mode of communication to identify a potentially stolen vehicle.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60R 25/104 - Fittings or systems for preventing or indicating unauthorised use or theft of vehicles actuating a signalling device characterised by the type of theft warning signal, e.g. visual or audible signals with special characteristics

Abstract

A vehicle that includes a controller and a battery pack including a casing having a plurality of battery cells stored therein. The casing includes a plurality of vents for discharging battery exhaust gases. A sensor is in communication with an interior of the casing and the controller, and the sensor is configured to generate either a signal indicative of a temperature of the interior of the casing or a signal indicative of a pressure within the interior of the casing. A plurality of thermal barriers are attached to the vehicle that are configured to deploy based on an instruction received from the controller that is based on the signal indicative of the temperature or the signal indicative of the pressure.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60L 50/64 - Constructional details of batteries specially adapted for electric vehicles
• B60K 1/04 - Arrangement or mounting of electrical propulsion units of the electric storage means for propulsion
• B60L 3/00 - Electric devices on electrically-propelled vehicles for safety purposesMonitoring operating variables, e.g. speed, deceleration or energy consumption
• H01M 50/24 - MountingsSecondary casings or framesRacks, modules or packsSuspension devicesShock absorbersTransport or carrying devicesHolders characterised by physical properties of casings or racks, e.g. dimensions adapted for protecting batteries from their environment, e.g. from corrosion

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for controlling a motor vehicle (100) comprising an automatic gearbox (130) and a touchscreen (140) in a passenger compartment (150) of the motor vehicle (100), the method being characterised in that it comprises the following steps: • reading, from an indicator (1110), a current mode of the automatic gearbox (130), the current mode indicator (1110) comprising a first item of information and a second item of information; • controlling the display, on the touchscreen (140), of an icon comprising the first item of information; • detecting when the icon is pressed for a duration; • if the duration is less than a first threshold, controlling the display, on the touchscreen (140), of the second item of information; and • if the duration is greater than the first threshold: • controlling the display, on the touchscreen (140), of a menu for changing the mode of the automatic gearbox (130), the menu comprising a plurality of mode identifiers of the automatic gearbox (130).

IPC Classes  ?

• F16H 59/08 - Range selector apparatus
• B60K 35/10 - Input arrangements, i.e. from user to vehicle, associated with vehicle functions or specially adapted therefor
• B60K 35/22 - Display screens

Abstract

Static state of charge (SOC) correction for a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery system of an electrified vehicle includes in response to a power-off of the electrified vehicle, (i) determining an initial SOC of the LFP battery system, (ii) initiating a power-off timer and (iii) initiating a periodic temperature measurement of the LFP battery system, in response to a subsequent power-on of the electrified vehicle, (i) stopping the power-off timer, (ii) determining an average of the periodic temperature measurements of the LFP battery system, and (iii) accessing a calibrated look-up table to determine a self-discharge rate of the LFP battery system based on a value of the power-off timer and the measured temperature of the LFP battery system, and determining a corrected SOC for the LFP battery system by determining an SOC change based on the determined self-discharge rate and subtracting the SOC change from the initial measured SOC.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60L 58/12 - Methods or circuit arrangements for monitoring or controlling batteries or fuel cells, specially adapted for electric vehicles for monitoring or controlling batteries responding to state of charge [SoC]

Abstract

A simulation and testing system for a communication network of a vehicle, the simulation and testing system including a computing system external to the vehicle and configured to execute a customized programming script to simulate at least one of client and provider servers for a scalable service-oriented middleware over Internet protocol (SOME/IP) network configuration for a plurality of electronic control units (ECUs) of the vehicle and test and verify operability of the SOME/IP network configuration by sending and verifying SOME/IP test messages between the computing system and at least some of the plurality of ECUs, and a control system for the communication network of the vehicle, the control system being configured to control communication between the plurality of ECUs via SOME/IP and via other communication protocols.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04L 41/0869 - Validating the configuration within one network element
• H04L 41/14 - Network analysis or design
• H04L 43/50 - Testing arrangements

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for managing a driver-assistance function for assisting with driving a motor vehicle, the method comprising the following steps: - assigning (201) a risk level to the right- and left-hand side of the current lane, the risk level being representative of the risk of crossing the boundaries of the current lane; - determining (202) the position of at least one other vehicle in the environment of the motor vehicle, the position being associated with the right-hand boundary or left-hand boundary; - determining (203) a proportion of the other vehicle present in the current lane; - deciding (204) whether or not to select (205) the other vehicle as the target vehicle for the driver-assistance function, depending on the determined proportion and the risk level associated with the boundary associated with the position of the other vehicle.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60W 30/16 - Control of distance between vehicles, e.g. keeping a distance to preceding vehicle

Abstract

A tow hook assembly for a motor vehicle includes a mounting bracket and a tow hook having a towing end and a mounting end. The towing end has a towing direction. The mounting end extends through the mounting bracket in a direction forming an angle not coincident with the towing direction. A fastener attaches to the mounting end of the tow hook and is configured to resist movement of the tow hook relative to the mounting bracket in a towing direction and allow movement of the tow hook in a direction opposite to the towing direction. A support bracket has a first end positioned adjacent to the towing end of the tow hook configured to support the towing end of the tow hook. The support bracket has a second end having a first portion having an aperture therethrough. The mounting end extends through the aperture.

IPC Classes  ?

• B60D 1/52 - Traction couplingsHitchesDraw-gearTowing devices characterised by the mounting removably mounted
• B60D 1/04 - Hook or hook-and-hasp couplings