Abstract: A method has been invented for predicting the build-up of heat, material aging, and subsequent belt separation failure in rolling steel-belted pneumatic tires (20). The procedure employs finite element analysis and a new fatigue crack propagation model that takes output generated by the finite element model to predict distance and time to belt separation in the tire. The finite element model uses input information on tire load, speed and inflation pressure (12) to calculate the temperature and energy release rate at the corresponding tips of the fatigue crack to generate four-dimensional response surfaces of crack-tip energy release rate as a function of crack length, crack-tip circumferential angular position, and crack-tip temperature. The fatigue crack propagation model samples the response surface and is numerically integrated to predict distance and/or time to belt separation failure (30).

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for communicating between surface equipment and downhole equipment. One embodiment of the invention provides a wellhead assembly that allows electrical power and signals to pass into and out of the well during drilling operations, without removing the valve structure above the wellhead. Another embodiment of the invention provides an electromagnetic casing antenna system for two-way communication with downhole tools. Another embodiment of the invention provides an antenna module for a resistivity sub that effectively controls and seals the primary/secondary interface gap.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for communicating between surface equipment and downhole equipment. One embodiment of the invention provides a wellhead assembly that allows electrical power and signals to pass into and out of the well during drilling operations, without removing the valve structure above the wellhead. Another embodiment of the invention provides an electromagnetic casing antenna system for two-way communication with downhole tools. Another embodiment of the invention provides an antenna module for a resistivity sub that effectively controls and seals the primary/secondary interface gap.

Abstract: A method has been invented for predicting the build-up of heat, material aging, and subsequent belt separation failure in rolling steel-belted pneumatic tires (20). The procedure employs finite element analysis and a new fatigue crack propagation model that takes output generated by the finite element model to predict distance and time to belt separation in the tire. The finite element model uses input information on tire load, speed and inflation pressure (12) to calculate the temperature and energy release rate at the corresponding tips of the fatigue crack to generate four-dimensional response surfaces of crack-tip energy release rate as a function of crack length, crack-tip circumferential angular position, and crack-tip temperature. The fatigue crack propagation model samples the response surface and is numerically integrated to predict distance and/or time to belt separation failure (30).

Abstract: A method for robust occupant position control prior to vehicle impact is provided. The method includes, in response to detecting an object, generating a Collision Index (CI) value representing a likelihood of collision with the detected object, and generating a Lateral Displacement (LD) value indicative of a distance to the detected object. A weight value (Wo) for a vehicle occupant is also determined. When the CI and LD values exceed respective thresholds, the method generates a pretensioner output (PTout) value as a function of the CI and Wo values, and activates a seatbelt pretensioner associated with a seat of the vehicle occupant as a function of the PTout value. An occupant positioning system for a vehicle activated prior to vehicle impact is also provided.

Abstract: A method for robust occupant position control prior to vehicle impact is provided. The method includes, in response to detecting an object, generating a Collision Index (CI) value representing a likelihood of collision with the detected object, and generating a Lateral Displacement (LD) value indicative of a distance to the detected object. A weight value (Wo) for a vehicle occupant is also determined. When the CI and LD values exceed respective thresholds, the method generates a pretensioner output (PTout) value as a function of the CI and Wo values, and activates a seatbelt pretensioner associated with a seat of the vehicle occupant as a function of the PTout value. An occupant positioning system for a vehicle activated prior to vehicle impact is also provided.

Abstract: A method for multi-directional anticipatory arming of restraint systems in a motor vehicle includes the steps of monitoring outputs from impact radar sensors located on the vehicle. The method also includes the steps of determining whether an impact range is less than a predetermined value, obtaining a closing velocity (CV), and determining a supervisory time window (STW). The method further includes the steps of determining whether at least one of the CV and STW are within predetermined limits and setting a velocity arming flag to activation of the restraint systems if the CV and STW are within the predetermined limits.

Abstract: An interactive method and system for designing a door system for an automotive vehicle without the necessity of building a prototype is disclosed. Initially, a door system design is selected and a set of door system data describing attributes of a door structure, a door opening panel (DOP), mating surfaces of the DOP and the vehicle, vehicle attributes, hardware attributes, and seal system attributes are generated based on the selected design. A door system model is then generated from the door system data, and a design criteria for the door system is selected. Door system performance is then determined using predetermined conditions based upon the door system model by computing and displaying time histories of predefined parameters of the door system, door related hardware, and vehicle passenger compartment.

Abstract: A method and system for designing a door seal system is based upon a predicted contribution of the door seal system to sound pressure levels (SPLs) within a vehicle due to wind noise. A door seal system design is selected and a door seal system deformed geometry is determined. The deformed door seal system and acoustic media are combined to produce a fully coupled acoustic/structure model of the door seal system. A sound transmission loss is predicted for the door seal system design under predetermined conditions using acoustics, finite deformation rubber elasticity, and steady state harmonic viscoelasticity. The sound transmission loss and interior SPLs are then displayed, and the door seal design changed according to predefined rules to produce a seal design which provides a desired SPL in the vehicle.