Abstract: A unique method for charging a battery includes comparing a parameter to a limit, wherein the parameter relates to previous charging of the battery; determining a current state of the battery; and performing a next charging cycle based on the comparison and/or the current state of the battery. A unique system includes a vehicle, a battery, and a charging system for charging the battery. The charging system includes a controller for determining whether the battery is in short term storage or long term storage; starting a new charge cycle after a first amount of reduction in the charge of the battery if the battery is in short term storage; and starting the new charge cycle after a second amount of reduction in the charge of the battery if the battery is in long term storage.

Abstract: An energy storage device is disclosed that in one embodiment is a rechargeable battery. The device includes a container within which is disposed battery plates, separators, and battery fluid. A mud well having mud rests is also disposed within the container. The separator can be formed as a pocket for insertion of a battery plate. The separator can include channel features sized to convey a gaseous byproduct of a charging event of the battery. In one form the mud rests define passages, such as an internally formed passage, that assist in the circulation of battery fluid.

Abstract: A unique method for charging a battery includes comparing a parameter to a limit, wherein the parameter relates to previous charging of the battery; determining a current state of the battery; and performing a next charging cycle based on the comparison and/or the current state of the battery. A unique system includes a vehicle, a battery, and a charging system for charging the battery. The charging system includes a controller for determining whether the battery is in short term storage or long term storage; starting a new charge cycle after a first amount of reduction in the charge of the battery if the battery is in short term storage; and starting the new charge cycle after a second amount of reduction in the charge of the battery if the battery is in long term storage.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for a remote diagnostic system for motorized vehicles. Apparatus according to this aspect of the invention includes a base station having a processor associated with a transceiver and a remote unit installed in a vehicle. The remote unit includes a controller associated with a transceiver, where the controller gathers diagnostic data. The remote unit controller transmits a vehicle identification signal in conjunction with diagnostic data to the base station transceiver such that the base station processor monitors the diagnostic data for the vehicle. Another aspect of the invention further includes a mapping processor associated with a memory. The memory stores a virtual map of a local operating area having areas that are allowable and restricted. The controller is coupled to the mapping processor and a GPS (Global Positioning System) receiver is coupled to the mapping processor.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for a remote diagnostic system for motorized vehicles. Apparatus according to this aspect of the invention includes a base station having a processor associated with a transceiver and a remote unit installed in a vehicle. The remote unit includes a controller associated with a transceiver, where the controller gathers diagnostic data. The remote unit controller transmits a vehicle identification signal in conjunction with diagnostic data to the base station transceiver such that the base station processor monitors the diagnostic data for the vehicle.

Abstract: Methods for eliminating inadvertent power drain from an electrical power source coupled to a starter-generator. In one embodiment, a multiple-position key switch and bypass rectifier configuration is implemented. The multiple-position key switch is coupled to the power source. The key switch's start terminal is coupled to a solenoid for starting, while a bypass rectifier is coupled in parallel to the solenoid to provide a circuit path for recharging the electrical power source. When either a closed-in-neutral gear shift switch is open or the key switch is in a run/accessory power position, the solenoid is de-energized. This leaves the bypass rectifier as the remaining circuit path through which the power source is recharged. The bypass rectifier allows current flow in a single direction, thereby preventing discharge of the power source.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for eliminating inadvertent power drain from an electrical power source coupled to a starter-generator. A multiple-position key switch and bypass rectifier configuration is implemented. The multiple-position key switch is coupled to the power source. The key switch's start terminal is coupled to a solenoid for starting, while a bypass rectifier is coupled in parallel to the solenoid to provide a circuit path for recharging the electrical power source. When either a closed-in-neutral gear shift switch is open or the key switch is in a run/accessory power position, the solenoid is de-energized. This leaves the bypass rectifier as the remaining circuit path through which the power source is recharged. The bypass rectifier allows current flow in a single direction, thereby preventing discharge of the power source.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for eliminating inadvertent power drain from an electrical power source coupled to a starter-generator. A multiple-position key switch and bypass rectifier configuration is implemented. The multiple-position key switch is coupled to the power source. The key switch's start terminal is coupled to a solenoid for starting, while a bypass rectifier is coupled in parallel to the solenoid to provide a circuit path for recharging the electrical power source. When either a closed-in-neutral gear shift switch is open or the key switch is in a run/accessory power position, the solenoid is de-energized. This leaves the bypass rectifier as the remaining circuit path through which the power source is recharged. The bypass rectifier allows current flow in a single direction, thereby preventing discharge of the power source.

Abstract: An improved capacitive discharge ignition apparatus provides spark advance with engine speed. The ignition apparatus includes at least one trigger circuit including a trigger coil preferably contained in a common housing with other circuit elements. In this case, an auxiliary coil may be provided to cancel certain pulses in the trigger coil output that could otherwise interfere with desired operation. In some embodiments, a second trigger circuit is provided to derive a triggering signal from the primary coil of the ignition's step-up transformer. A triggering signal of appropriate magnitude received from either trigger circuit will cause discharge of an energy storage element through the primary coil.

Abstract: An improved capacitive discharge ignition apparatus includes disable circuitry for permitting shut-off of the engine. The disable circuitry includes a SCR and a transistor in series to provide a bypass for current that would otherwise charge the ignition capacitor. The SCR is gated by a RC circuit charged by momentary contact of a user-actuated switch. The transistor is rendered conductive only during periods when a positive voltage is induced on the charge coil, thereby limiting discharge of the RC circuit. In addition, the RC circuit is regeneratively charged by a leakage current through the SCR gate. The disable circuitry thus achieves engine stoppage regardless of the time required.

Abstract: An improved capacitive discharge ignition apparatus includes disable circuitry for permitting shut-off of the engine. The disable circuitry is operative to gate the discharge SCR, thereby shorting current that would otherwise charge the storage capacitor. A portion of the charging current is diverted through a transistor to the SCR gate. The transistor is rendered conductive for a predetermined time by a RC circuit connected to its base. The RC circuit is charged by momentary contact of a user-actuated switch. The time constant of the RC circuit is preferably selected to achieve engine stoppage under any anticipated operating conditions.

Abstract: An improved capacitive discharge ignition apparatus provides a step advance in spark initiation at a predetermined threshold speed. The ignition apparatus includes two trigger circuits electrically connected to a triggering node of an electronic switch device. A triggering signal received from either trigger circuit will cause discharge of an energy storage element through the primary coil of the ignition's step-up transformer. The first trigger circuit is configured to supply an advanced triggering signal only at speeds exceeding the predetermined threshold. In addition, to enhance spark duration, the advanced triggering signal is preferably timed to occur when a sustaining potential is being otherwise induced on the secondary coil of the transformer. The second trigger circuit includes a trigger coil spaced apart from the transformer to provide a delayed triggering signal at speeds below the predetermined threshold speed.