Abstract: A radio frequency audio distortion measurement system for a motor vehicle radio. The system includes a generator that generates test RF signals and transmits the signals to the motor vehicle radio through a wireless communication link. The system includes a controller coupled to the generator that controls the transmission of the RF signals to the radio. The system also includes a distortion analyzer coupled to the RF receiver and the controller that senses and analyzes the audio distortion caused by motor vehicle system components, such as motor vehicle electrical and electronic system components, in response to commands output from the controller. The system of the present invention thereby provides an objective way of analyzing audio distortion caused by radiated conducted and/or coupled interference from electrical and electronic systems in a controlled test environment.

Abstract: An adjustable probe tip has a female part that includes a ring structure and a hook extending therefrom. The ring structure has a threaded bore. The probe tip also has a male part having a threaded cylindrical surface that is screwably received by the female part. The male part has an inner bore that is not threaded and receives a metal probe tip cap therein. Screwing the male part into the threaded bore of the female part adjusts the relative distance between the hook and the end of the male part. The metal cap is received in the end so that a wire trapped between the metal part and the hook may be pierced by a probe tip of the metal cap. A test probe may be received by the male cap and bore of the male part so that electrical contact will be made between the probe tip and the metal cap. As the probe pierces the wire trapped between the probe tip cap and the hook, a secure contact is made between the conductive core of the wire and the conductive path from the probe tip to the test equipment.

Abstract: A practice is disclosed for the start-up of a methanol-fueled engine at low ambient temperatures. Liquid methanol fuel is atomized using ultrasonic energy, mixed with air and introduced over a methanol oxidation-dissociation catalyst. Methanol oxidation is used to heat the catalyst to an elevated temperature at which methanol dissociation provides a noncondensable fuel comprising carbon monoxide and hydrogen for the start-up of the engine at low ambient temperature.