Abstract: In order to reliably measure the performance of a battery over a period of time, for example, to verify compliance with warranty conditions, the battery is inseparably connected in a casing with a charging and monitoring unit which monitors the condition of the battery and charges the battery according to a charging sequence selected in accordance with the conditions detected. The charging and monitoring unit also protects the battery from deep-discharges and from being short-circuited.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for automatically steering a vehicle intermittently associated with a stationary guide structure. A sensor detects the distance between the vehicle and the guide structure to provide an actual value signal, which is compared with a reference signal to effect feedback control over vehicle movement. The referenece signal is adjustably controlled periodically when required, e.g., when the vehicle has completed a circuit within the area of interest.

Abstract: The invention concerns a method of automatically steering a self-propelled floor-cleaning machine along a predetermined path of motion on a limited area to be worked, wherein a sequence of path segments stored in a data memory is retrieved, and the path segments travelled by the machine, and wherein markings are recognized by at least one sensor and converted into course-correcting control commands actuating and/or steering the machine. Linear structures present on or above the area to be worked are used as markings along the path of motion, such that, on first segments its path, the floor-cleaning machine is steered parallel to recognized structures by at least one laterally pointing telemeter such as an ultrasound or laser telemeter, and that on second segments of its path, the floor-cleaning machine travels freely, without guidance by existing structures, from the end of a recognized structure to the beginning of the next structure which can be recognized.