Ignition Or Starter Circuits Patents (Class 307/10.6)
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Patent number: 11964559Abstract: This vehicle control device includes: a distance measurement unit that measures the distance between a vehicle and a preceding vehicle; and an engine control unit that starts up an engine when, in comparison to a distance measured by the distance measurement unit once a host vehicle has stopped and an engine mounted in the host vehicle has stopped, a distance newly measured by the distance measurement unit increases by at least an offset amount that indicates the amount of increase in distance used to determine whether to start up the engine.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 2019Date of Patent: April 23, 2024Assignee: ISUZU MOTORS LIMITEDInventors: Satoshi Hayashi, Masaichi Takahashi
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Patent number: 11920527Abstract: A powered device may include an engine, a mobility assembly operably coupled to the engine to provide mobility of the powered device responsive at least in part to operation of the engine, a working assembly operably coupled to the engine to perform a working function responsive at least in part to operation of the engine, and a key-operated combination ignition and speed control assembly including switch circuitry configured to control both starting the engine and selection of different selectable positions corresponding to respective different operating speeds for the engine.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2020Date of Patent: March 5, 2024Assignee: HUSQVARNA ABInventors: Kenneth Mandeville, Scott Johnson
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Patent number: 11912140Abstract: Methods and systems for activating electric vehicles are provided. One method includes, in response to a first command to activate the vehicle, transitioning the vehicle from an inactive state to a wake state where a controller of the vehicle is activated and the vehicle is prevented from being propelled by an electric motor of the vehicle. The method also includes, in response to receiving a second command to activate the vehicle after receiving the first command, transitioning the vehicle from the wake state to a ready state where the vehicle is permitted to be propelled by the electric motor.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2023Date of Patent: February 27, 2024Assignee: TAIGA MOTORS INC.Inventor: Gabriel Bernatchez
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Patent number: 11872864Abstract: A vehicle includes a high voltage component such as an electric actuator, an electric suspension control ECU, a battery, a signal line which transmits, to the electric suspension control ECU, a detection signal of a sensor disposed in the electric actuator, a high voltage line which supplies a high voltage from the battery to the electric actuator, and a fixing member which fixes the signal line and the high voltage line to a vehicle body, a length of the signal line from the fixing member to the electric actuator is shorter than a length of the high voltage line from the fixing member to the electric actuator, and the electric suspension control ECU suppresses the supply of the high voltage to the electric actuator, in a case where abnormality occurs in the signal line.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2022Date of Patent: January 16, 2024Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.Inventors: Satoshi Ohno, Kazuya Konada
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Patent number: 11840343Abstract: Provided is an aircraft seat that enhances passenger comfort and reduces the burden on cabin attendants. The aircraft seat includes a base with a relatively movable seat portion and a backrest portion; an actuator for relatively moving the seat portion and the backrest portion; a biometric sensor installed on the base and configured to obtain biometric information of a passenger; a plurality of elastic members installed on the base; a modification device configured to change an elastic force of at least one elastic member, and a control device, wherein the control device operates the actuator or the modification device in response to a signal from the biometric sensor.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2020Date of Patent: December 12, 2023Assignee: JAMCO CORPORATIONInventors: Toshihiko Oshita, Hiroyuki Hozumi, Tsuyoshi Oguri, Shinnosuke Kubota
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Patent number: 11823515Abstract: A method of asset access control includes: storing, at an access control server: an asset record corresponding to a physical asset and containing an asset identifier corresponding to the asset; and an account record corresponding to a user of the physical asset and containing an account identifier; receiving, at the access control server from a client computing device, an authorization request containing the asset identifier and the account identifier; determining, based on a comparison between the asset record and the account record, whether to authorize the request; when the determination is affirmative, transmitting an instruction to a collector device mounted on the physical asset to permit subsequent access to the asset.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2021Date of Patent: November 21, 2023Assignee: EQUIPMENTSHARE.COM INCInventors: William John Schlacks, IV, Jabbok Schlacks
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Patent number: 11808243Abstract: An ignition system for outdoor power equipment driven by a petrol or gasoline engine may include a safety interlock system, a starter motor, a starter solenoid having an activation coil, and a solenoid monitor. The ignition system may be configured to selectively apply power to start the engine based on application of a start attempt. The safety interlock system may be operable to actuate the starter solenoid via the activation coil to apply current to the starter motor for starting the engine during the start attempt. The solenoid monitor may be configured to determine a status of the activation coil and starter solenoid contacts and provide a fault indication based on the status determined.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2019Date of Patent: November 7, 2023Assignee: HUSQVARNA ABInventor: Matthew Albinger
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Patent number: 11801764Abstract: The present invention relates to the technical field of vehicles, and provides an energy conversion device and a vehicle. The energy conversion device includes a reversible pulse-width modulation (PWM) rectifier, a motor coil connected with the reversible PWM rectifier, a one-way conduction module, and a capacitor. A DC charging circuit or a DC discharging circuit is formed by an external DC port with an external battery by using the energy conversion device, and a driving circuit is formed by the external battery with the reversible PWM rectifier and the motor coil in the energy conversion device. The one-way conduction module is connected between a first end of the capacitor and a second end of the external DC port, or the one-way conduction module is connected between a second end of the capacitor and a first end of the external DC port.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 2020Date of Patent: October 31, 2023Assignee: BYD COMPANY LIMITEDInventors: Yubo Lian, Heping Ling, Jicheng Li, Hua Pan, Feiyue Xie
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Patent number: 11798324Abstract: A device for monitoring a life condition of a spark igniter in a gas turbine ignition system. The device includes an evaluation circuit having circuit components that include a hold capacitor, a transistor, and an operational amplifier arranged to form a sample-and-hold circuit, wherein an igniter spark impulse signal is applied to an input node of the evaluation circuit causing the transistor to turn on and the hold capacitor to discharge for a duration of the igniter spark impulse signal, and wherein a discharged voltage at the hold capacitor is maintained and output by the operational amplifier, the discharged voltage representing the duration of the igniter spark impulse and indicating the life condition of the spark igniter.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2019Date of Patent: October 24, 2023Assignee: CHAMPION AEROSPACE LLCInventors: Robert A. Lockmiller, Amit Toprani
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Patent number: 11794746Abstract: A method ensures that a vehicle can safely pass a traffic light. The vehicle includes a processor and a light sensor. The method includes receiving traffic data, establishing a speed profile, establishing a control distance, the processor establishing, in accordance with the speed profile, a control distance at which braking ensures that the vehicle stops safely before the position of the traffic light, adjustment according to the speed profile, detecting the state of the traffic light when the vehicle is at the control distance from the traffic light, and the processor activating braking if the traffic light is red.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2020Date of Patent: October 24, 2023Assignees: RENAULT s.a.s., NISSAN MOTOR CO., LTD.Inventors: Nicolas Gacoin, Christophe Tricaud
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Patent number: 11794720Abstract: A hybrid electric vehicle capable of starting an engine in the event of failure of a DC-DC converter and a method of controlling the hybrid electric vehicle are provided. The hybrid electric vehicle includes a driving motor, an engine, and a first relay that starts a starter. A second relay is disposed between a first power line, connected the starter and a first battery, and second power line, connects a DC-DC converter that converts the power of a second battery and an electric load. A controller selectively adjusts the states of the first relay and the second relay. Upon determining starting of the engine and detecting failure of the DC-DC converter, the controller maintains the on state of the second relay and turns on the first relay to perform cranking of the engine.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2020Date of Patent: October 24, 2023Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors CorporationInventors: Jin Kuk Cho, Ji Hyun Park
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Patent number: 11791501Abstract: The life of a plurality of storage batteries as a whole is increased. A DC power supplying system includes power conditioners that supply generated power generated at power generators to a DC bus, storage batteries, storage batteries that have a superior cycle characteristic, bidirectional DC/DC converters that perform power conversion between generated power supplied to the DC bus and charging power of the storage batteries, bidirectional DC/DC converters that perform power conversion between generated power and charging power of the second storage batteries, DC/DC converters that supply the generated power and the charging power to load appliances, and an energy management system that is operable when an absolute value of a power difference between the generated power and the load power supplied to the load appliances is equal to or greater than a power threshold to operate the DC converters.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2018Date of Patent: October 17, 2023Assignee: TDK CORPORATIONInventors: Takuma Mitsunaga, Katsuo Naoi
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Patent number: 11772585Abstract: A wiring system for an automobile includes: a first connection device connected to a corresponding one of electrical components so as to communicate with and supply power to the corresponding electrical component; and a plurality of second connection devices each connected to a corresponding one of the electrical components so as to communicate with and supply power to the corresponding electrical component, wherein a bus communication line sequentially passes through the first connection device and the plurality of second connection devices, and is branched so as to communicate with the electrical components in the first connection device and the plurality of second connection devices, and a plurality of power sources mounted in the automobile are connected to the first connection device and integrated, and electric power supplied from the plurality of power sources is distributed from the first connection device to the plurality of second connection devices.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2019Date of Patent: October 3, 2023Assignees: AUTONETWORKS TECHNOLOGIES, LTD., SUMITOMO WIRING SYSTEMS, LTD., SUMITOMO ELECTRIC INDUSTRIES, LTD.Inventors: Yutaka Matsumura, Akio Ishihara, Shinya Itou
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Patent number: 11735909Abstract: A voltage stabilizer is provided for stabilizing a gate-source voltage of a switching element, wherein a source of the switching element receives a first driving voltage. The voltage stabilizer includes a bipolar junction transistor, a first resistor and a second resistor. A base of the bipolar junction transistor receives a second driving voltage, a collector of the bipolar junction transistor is electrically connected to a gate of the switching element, a first terminal of the first resistor is electrically connected to the collector and the gate, a second terminal of the first resistor is electrically connected to the source of the switching element and receives the first driving voltage, a first terminal of the second resistor is electrically connected to an emitter of the bipolar junction transistor, and a second terminal of the second resistor receives a third driving voltage The bipolar junction transistor is operated in an active region.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2022Date of Patent: August 22, 2023Assignee: DELTA ELECTRONICS, INC.Inventors: Kuan-Ting Lee, Chen-Chieh Kao, Yu-Liang Lin, Cheng-Chia Hsiao
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Patent number: 11732441Abstract: There is provided a construction machine that draws attention from the surroundings of the machine body when the prime mover is started and that can have the operator reliably confirm the surroundings of the machine body before the prime mover is started. An engine start control section 23 of a main controller 22 inhibits an engine 18 from starting when a key switch 12 is operated while a horn switch 21 is not operated, inhibits the engine 18 from starting when the key switch 12 is operated for the duration until a first set time T1 elapses after the operation of the horn switch 21 has been finished, permits the engine 18 to start in a case the key switch 12 is operated for the duration until a second set time T2 elapses after the first set time T1 has elapsed, and inhibits the engine 18 again from starting when the key switch 12 is operated if the engine 18 is not started for the duration until the second set time T2 elapses.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 2020Date of Patent: August 22, 2023Assignee: HITACHI CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY CO., LTD.Inventors: Shinji Nishikawa, Ryousuke Itou, Katsuaki Kodaka
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Patent number: 11652359Abstract: The present disclosure discloses a charging device, which comprises an energy storage module, an output interface, a switch module and a control module. The energy storage module is configured to store and provide electrical energy. The output interface is configured to be electrically coupled to a load, wherein the energy storage module is configured to output electrical energy to the load through a discharge circuit. The output interface is electrically coupled in the discharge circuit. The switch module is electrically coupled in the discharge circuit. The control module is configured to detect a current of the discharge circuit, and turn off the switch module when the current of the discharge circuit is greater than a preset current, to switch off an electrical connection between the energy storage module and the output interface.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2021Date of Patent: May 16, 2023Assignee: SHENZHEN CARKU TECHNOLOGY CO., LIMITEDInventors: Yun Lei, Mingxing Ouyang, Zhifeng Zhang
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Patent number: 11646589Abstract: A battery system includes a plurality of battery cell packs arranged in layers selectively connected in series and parallel by a control system controlling a plurality of switches. Each of the battery cell packs includes a plurality of battery cells. A plurality of first switches and a plurality of second switches are controlled by a control system to connect the battery cell packs in response to a desired current output of the battery system and/or a desired voltage output of the battery system irrespective of individual battery cell or battery cell pack voltages or currents associated with state of charge or operational performance. The control system controls the switches to selectively connect the battery cell pack(s) to the output connections in parallel and/or series to provide redundancy and reduce output voltage/current fluctuation otherwise associated with state of charge or underperforming battery cells/packs.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2021Date of Patent: May 9, 2023Assignee: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLCInventors: Philip Stauss, Johann Kirchhoffer, Sebastian Schneider
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Patent number: 11602995Abstract: Methods and systems for activating electric vehicles are provided. One method includes, in response to a first command to activate the vehicle, transitioning the vehicle from an inactive state to a wake state where a controller of the vehicle is activated and the vehicle is prevented from being propelled by an electric motor of the vehicle. The method also includes, in response to receiving a second command to activate the vehicle after receiving the first command, transitioning the vehicle from the wake state to a ready state where the vehicle is permitted to be propelled by the electric motor.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2022Date of Patent: March 14, 2023Assignee: TAIGA MOTORS INC.Inventor: Gabriel Bernatchez
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Patent number: 11581892Abstract: A method includes pre-charging a parasitic capacitance of a control node that is coupled to a control terminal of first and second transistors that have respective current paths that form a switched current path coupled between a load node and a storage node. Pre-charging the parasitic capacitance includes: making conductive a first auxiliary transistor that has a current path coupled between the storage node and the control node, or making conductive a second auxiliary transistor that has a current path coupled between the load node and the control node. The method further includes, after pre-charging the parasitic capacitance, making the switched current path conductive to couple the load node to the storage node.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2020Date of Patent: February 14, 2023Assignee: STMicroelectronics S.r.l.Inventor: Marco Zamprogno
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Patent number: 11498521Abstract: A vehicle control apparatus includes a processor including hardware, the processor being configured to determine whether or not a position of a key device is located within a predetermined area, and in a case where the position of the key device is located within the predetermined area, stop a smart key function of a vehicle or transmit a first signal requesting setting of a remote immobilizer function of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2021Date of Patent: November 15, 2022Assignees: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA, CMC CORPORATIONInventors: Shin Sakurada, Yasuhisa Ohta, Satoru Sakuma, Yuki Tatsumoto, Naoyuki Takada, Tetsu Yajima
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Patent number: 11498434Abstract: A vehicle device includes at least one calculating logic, at least one electric and/or electronic functional unit, and at least one stored buffer energy source, which is operatively connected to the calculating logic and the functional unit and which is configured to at least partially buffer and/or stabilize a vehicle electrical system voltage of a vehicle electrical system in a normal operating state for supplying power to the functional unit. The vehicle device further includes at least one monitoring unit which is configured, in at least one malfunctioning state, in which the vehicle electrical system voltage drops below a voltage limit value and/or a gradient of the vehicle electrical system voltage exceeds a gradient limit value, to at least partially limit the energy intake of the functional unit and to enable an at least temporary power supply of the calculating logic by the stored buffer energy source.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2018Date of Patent: November 15, 2022Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventor: Andreas Knoedler
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Patent number: 11472427Abstract: A driver authentication and safety system and method for monitoring and controlling vehicle usage by high-risk drivers. A centralized database comprising a software application can be accessed by an authorized user via a data communications network utilizing a remote computer in order to configure a desired operating profile that matches requirements of the high-risk driver. The operating profile can be loaded to a driver identification and data logging device in conjunction with the remote computer. A master control unit receives a unique identification code from the data logging device to authenticate the high-risk driver and to operate the vehicle within the desired operating profile. A slave control unit receives commands from the master control unit and generates a real time alarm signal if the driver violates the preprogrammed operating profile unique to the driver.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2019Date of Patent: October 18, 2022Inventor: Michael Phelan
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Patent number: 11447007Abstract: A system for averting the threat posed by a vehicle rampage. The system includes at least one device for bringing the vehicle to a halt by external intervention. The system has a sensor arrangement which is connected to the device.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2018Date of Patent: September 20, 2022Inventor: Marcus Lohr
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Patent number: 11427155Abstract: A smart alarm module includes a first connector terminal providing conductive paths from the fused box and the audio device to the smart alarm module, a second connector terminal providing conductive paths from the on-board electronics to the smart alarm module, an input interface connecting the on-board electronics to detect communication protocol and receive information from the remote controller, a microcontroller arming the smart alarm module responsively to the content of the information to provide judgment operation, a sensor quantizing shock waves on the vehicle then feeding a first activating signal to the microprocessor when the quantized values exceeds a predetermined value, a power supply regulator regulating and providing power to the input interface, the microprocessor, and the sensor, and an output interface sounding the audio device, drive the vehicle's door switch in response to output signal from the microprocessor, and detect vehicle's speed from the on-board electronics.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2020Date of Patent: August 30, 2022Inventor: Reng-Shan Wang
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Patent number: 11428582Abstract: An overheat detection system comprising a controller for declaring the overheat, and two wiring connections running along a monitored system and configured to react upon overheat. The controller is configured to determine an electrical status of each wiring connection at least between operative and inoperative, the inoperative status corresponding to an electrical anomaly thereof, and electrically connect or disconnect the wiring connections depending on the electrical status thereof, wherein the declaration of overheat is based on a dynamic reconfiguration of the overheat detection system.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2019Date of Patent: August 30, 2022Assignees: AIRBUS OPERATIONS SAS, AIRBUS OPERATIONS S.L.Inventors: Romain Merat, Marta Castillo De Alvear, Sijmen Zandstra, Javier Fraile Martin, Carlos Bueno Vazquez, Jose Perez Garcia
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Patent number: 11407313Abstract: A power supply circuit for supplying power to an electric load of a vehicle includes a relay and a relay control circuit. The relay is configure to be turned on when enabling the supply of power to the electric load and configured to be turned off when interrupting the supply of power to the electric load. The relay control circuit is configured to turn on the relay when an ignition of the vehicle is on regardless of a state of an operation part that is to be operated by a driver to operate the electric load.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 2021Date of Patent: August 9, 2022Assignees: DENSO ELECTRONICS CORPORATION, TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Yasuo Naruse, Manabu Morita, Jiro Ito, Yoshio Nishino
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Patent number: 11326571Abstract: A method and system for operating a vehicle that includes a plurality of engine starting devices and an internal combustion engine is described. In one example, the method selects one of a plurality of engine starting devices to start an engine based on durability metrics of each of the plurality of engine starting devices. In addition, engine starting device selection may be based on calibration parameters that are generated via a server that is external to the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2020Date of Patent: May 10, 2022Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Jeffrey Doering, James A. Hilditch, John Rollinger, Walter Joseph Ortmann, Jason Meyer
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Patent number: 11318911Abstract: A vehicle apparatus has a controller, a first key reader disposed in a cabin of the vehicle, and a second key reader disposed external of the vehicle, such as on an auxiliary equipment. The controller is configured to actuate an engine control unit upon receipt of an authenticated signal. The controller is configured to receive a signal from the first key reader when the vehicle apparatus is operable in a first mode, and the controller is configured to receive a signal from the second key reader when the vehicle apparatus is operable in a second mode.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2021Date of Patent: May 3, 2022Assignee: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLCInventors: Rob A. Richardson, Simon J. W. Hurr, Christopher Harrison, Nicholas J. Brown
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Patent number: 11296506Abstract: The invention relates to a bidirectional charging panel (BCP). The BCP includes a relay for controlling a combustion engine and a battery voltage sensor for monitoring a battery voltage. The BCP also includes a grid switch to transfer continuous power between the battery and a grid interface, where the grid interface further includes a grid voltage sensor for monitoring a grid voltage of a grid of devices and a grid direct current outlet to transfer power to and from a grid of devices. The BCP also includes a controller to manage the flow of power between the battery and the grid of devices, where the controller uses the relay to start or stop the combustion according to the battery voltage and uses the grid interface to transfer power from the grid of devices to the battery in response to determining the battery voltage is lower than the grid voltage.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2020Date of Patent: April 5, 2022Assignee: The Government of the United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventors: Austin Galya Fleming, Elizabeth Ann Geiss, Benjamin William Rathwell, Anthony Gerard Pollman
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Patent number: 11273728Abstract: An automobile includes a fan configured to send cooling air, a fan driving apparatus, a first electronic control unit, and a second electronic control unit. The first electronic control unit is configured to output a first driving control signal to the fan driving apparatus when an ignition switch is turned off and a predetermined condition is established. The second electronic control unit is configured to determine whether or not the first driving control signal has been output by monitoring the signal line when the ignition switch is turned off. The second electronic control unit is configured to output a second driving control signal to the fan driving apparatus when determination is made that the first driving control signal has not been output to the fan driving apparatus from the first electronic control unit, the ignition switch is turned off, and the predetermined condition is established.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2018Date of Patent: March 15, 2022Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Takehiro Inagaki, Makoto Kuze
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Patent number: 11221897Abstract: Techniques are described with respect to managing device maintenance. An associated method includes constructing a machine learning knowledge model associated with a plurality of devices in a client ecosystem based upon at least one course of device evaluation. The method further includes collecting, from a plurality of device sensors, device sensor data associated with each of the plurality of devices and collecting, from a plurality of environmental sensors, environmental sensor data associated with each of the plurality of devices. The method further includes analyzing, via the machine learning knowledge model, the device sensor data in view of the environmental sensor data to determine a failure risk value for each of the plurality of devices. Responsive to the failure risk value for any device among the plurality of devices exceeding a predefined failure risk threshold, the method further includes facilitating activation of the device for a designated duration of time.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 2019Date of Patent: January 11, 2022Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Robert H. Grant, Shikhar Kwatra, Zachary A. Silverstein, Sarbajit K. Rakshit
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Patent number: 11203338Abstract: A vehicle comprising an internal combustion engine, a preceding vehicle information acquiring device for acquiring preceding vehicle information relating to a preceding vehicle, including a parameter relating to a distance between vehicles which becomes greater the wider the distance between a host vehicle and the preceding vehicle, and an electronic control unit for controlling the internal combustion engine, in which, the electronic control unit is configured to initiate an idle reduction mode where the internal combustion engine is made to automatically stop when a preset engine stop condition stands and to continue the idle reduction mode if the preceding vehicle is decelerating or has stopped and to make the internal combustion engine automatically restart if the preceding vehicle is accelerating or is running at an equal speed when the parameter becomes a first predetermined value or more during the idle reduction mode.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 2018Date of Patent: December 21, 2021Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Ken Kuretake
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Patent number: 11135928Abstract: An electric system of a road vehicle; the electric system has: a high-voltage electric circuit provided with a first storage system; a low-voltage electric circuit provided with a plurality of electrical loads; and a DC-DC electronic power converter, which connects the low-voltage electric circuit and the high-voltage electric circuit to one another. The DC-DC electronic power converter has: a high-voltage input; a low-voltage output; a conversion device; a control unit, which controls the conversion device; and a second storage system connected to the low-voltage output. The control unit, only when the vehicle is parked, is configured to detect a state of charge of the second storage system and to activate the conversion device only when the state of charge of the second storage system is below a charge threshold to charge the second storage system.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2020Date of Patent: October 5, 2021Assignee: FERRARI S.p.A.Inventors: Giovanni Lo Calzo, Ugo Sitta, Roberto Betro'
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Patent number: 11131285Abstract: Systems and methods for supplying electrical power between two electric energy storage devices are disclosed. In one example, an electric isolation switch is held open after engine starting until a voltage of a first electric energy storage device and a voltage of a second electric energy storage device are within a threshold voltage of at least one predetermined voltage level.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 2019Date of Patent: September 28, 2021Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Alexander O'Connor Gibson, David Lew
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Patent number: 11077765Abstract: A DC-DC converter is mounted on a vehicle. The DC-DC converter includes: a bidirectional DC-DC converter that is connected between a capacitor for pre-charging connected to a first battery and a second battery differing from the first battery and can perform bidirectional output; and a unidirectional DC-DC converter that is connected in parallel with the bidirectional DC-DC converter and can perform output in one direction to a side of the second battery. During activation of the vehicle, the controller actuates the bidirectional DC-DC converter to start pre-charging the capacitor by using power of the second battery and starts actuating the unidirectional DC-DC converter later than initiation of the actuation of the bidirectional DC-DC converter.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2020Date of Patent: August 3, 2021Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventor: Taiki Takemoto
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Patent number: 11081304Abstract: A load control system includes a power switching device and a control device, wherein the power switching device includes a first power input port, a second power input port and a power output port. The first power input port and the second power input port are electrically connected to a first battery and a second battery respectively, and the power output port is electrically connected to the control device. The power output port receives the power which is input to the first power input port or the second power input port so as to supply the power to the control device. The control device is adapted to control a load to switch and to control the power switching device to utilize the power from the first power input port and the second power input port alternatively, thereby extending the respective usage time of the first battery and the second battery.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2018Date of Patent: August 3, 2021Assignee: GRAND MATE CO., LTD.Inventors: Chung-Chin Huang, Chin-Ying Huang, Hsin-Ming Huang, Hsing-Hsiung Huang, Yen-Jen Yeh, Chia-Yu Wang
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Patent number: 11072345Abstract: A system for controlling operation of a vehicle, the system comprising: a voice synthesizer unit for providing voice communication to a driver; a speech recognition unit for receiving speech from a driver; a breath alcohol sensor unit for detecting a presence of alcohol on the breath of a driver and providing a signal representative of the same; a vehicle operation interface for controlling operation of the vehicle; and a controller for (i) selectively causing the voice synthesizer unit to speak to the driver, (ii) operating the speech recognition unit to detect speech by the driver, (iii) receiving the signal from the breath alcohol sensor unit, and (iv) depending on the signal received from the breath alcohol sensor unit, providing a command to the vehicle operation interface to control operation of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2019Date of Patent: July 27, 2021Assignee: Automotive Coalition For Traffic Safety, Inc.Inventors: Kyle Bowers, Abdullatif Zaouk, Robert Strassburger, Michael Willis, Neeraj Dalal
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Patent number: 11038367Abstract: A vehicle electric power supply apparatus includes: a first battery that supplies electric power to a first load that is driven at a first voltage and a second load that is driven at a second voltage which is lower than the first voltage; a second battery that supplies electric power to the second load and that has a lower output voltage than that of the first battery; a DC/DC converter that reduces a voltage value of the first battery and that supplies electric power to the second load; and a control part that controls a state of supplying electric power of the first battery to the second load by controlling an operation of the DC/DC converter based on a charging rate of the first battery and a charging rate of the second battery.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2019Date of Patent: June 15, 2021Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.Inventor: Toshihiro Sone
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Patent number: 11021079Abstract: A vehicle is provided to execute different modes based on a start signal. A parking-video recording mode is executed by turning on a first switch connected to a first battery to supply electric power of the first battery to a video recording device, identifying a charging amount of the first battery, turning on a third switch connected to a second battery to supply electric power of the second battery to the video recording device when the identified charging amount is less than a first reference charging amount, identifying a charging amount of the second battery, and terminating the parking-video recording mode when the identified charging amount of the second battery is less than a second reference charging amount. A traveling-video recording mode is executed by turning on a second switch connected to a generator to supply electric power generated by the generator to the video recording device.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2019Date of Patent: June 1, 2021Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors CorporationInventors: Donghyuk Jeong, Singu Kim, Ki Seon Ryu
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Patent number: 10958196Abstract: A powertrain system includes an electric motor for driving a vehicle; a battery; an internal combustion engine; an electric generator; a motor inverter connected in parallel to the battery, and converting DC electric power of the battery into AC electric power and supplying it to the electric motor; a generator inverter connected in parallel to the battery, and converting AC electric power generated by the electric generator into DC electric power and supplying it to the battery; and a control device. The control device is configured, where a charging rate of the battery is not greater than a first threshold value, and a ripple current that is generated in association with an operation of the motor inverter and flows into the battery is not less than a second threshold value, not to start up the internal combustion engine for electric power generation using the electric generator.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2019Date of Patent: March 23, 2021Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Hirotaka Saitoh, Shuichi Iwata, Atsushi Hayashi
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Patent number: 10906415Abstract: A power source system may include a main power source, a power converter including a capacitor, a relay configured to switch between connection and disconnection between the power converter and the main power source, an auxiliary power source, a boost converter having a low voltage terminal thereof connected to the auxiliary power source, and having a high voltage terminal thereof connected to the power converter without interposing the relay, and a controller configured to pre-charge the capacitor prior to placing the relay in a connected state. The controller may be configured to specify a relationship between a voltage and a current of the auxiliary power source based on data of chronological changes of the voltage and the current of the auxiliary power source, and control the boost converter based on the relationship such that a voltage of the auxiliary power source does not fall below a predetermined voltage threshold.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2018Date of Patent: February 2, 2021Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventor: Takashi Nozawa
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Power supply device, power control apparatus, and relay determination method for power supply device
Patent number: 10897190Abstract: A storage device that includes a first switching circuit connected to a direct-current voltage bus and a second switching circuit connected between the first switching circuit and a DC-DC converter. A smoothing capacitor is connected between the DC-DC converter and the switching circuit. Moreover, the second switching circuit includes a pair of relays connected in series between the first switching circuit and the DC-DC converter and an inrush current prevention circuit connected in parallel with the series circuit of the relays. A first voltage sensor is connected to a node between the pair of relays and a second voltage sensor is connected between both terminals of the smoothing capacitor. A control unit determines the presence of welding at the relays on the basis of voltage values detected by the voltage sensors.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 2020Date of Patent: January 19, 2021Assignee: MURATA MANUFACTURING CO., LTD.Inventors: Yousuke Takei, Shuichi Tagawa -
Patent number: 10875422Abstract: A battery pack (10) supplies power to a vehicle (20), and comprises a receiver (11), a signal analyzer (12), and a discharge controller (14). The receiver (11) receives from the vehicle (20) a proper use signal generated by the vehicle (20). The signal analyzer (12) analyzes the proper use signal received by the receiver (11). The discharge controller (14) permits power supply to the vehicle (20) when it has been confirmed, as a result of analysis by the signal analyzer (12), that a proper use signal has been received from the vehicle (20).Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 2016Date of Patent: December 29, 2020Assignee: OMRON CorporationInventors: Junichi Wada, Hiromasa Takatsuka, Kazuki Kasai
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Patent number: 10857956Abstract: A power supply system of a vehicle is provided. The system includes a high-voltage battery for storing power and a power relay that is disposed between the high-voltage battery and an electric load. A first converter receives the power from the high-voltage battery through the power relay and a second converter bypasses the power relay to directly receive the power from the high-voltage battery. The electric load receives the power from at least any one of the first converter and the second converter.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 2018Date of Patent: December 8, 2020Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors CorporationInventors: Yu Seok Kim, Jae Hoon Choi, Suk Hyung Kim, Jin Ho Park
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Patent number: 10756603Abstract: A power tool is provided. The power tool includes an internal combustion engine and a wireless communications device coupled to the internal combustion engine. The internal combustion engine includes an ignition coil assembly and a flywheel. The wireless communications device is coupled adjacent to either the flywheel or to the ignition coil assembly. The wireless communications device receives power wirelessly from the internal combustion engine only when the internal combustion engine is operating.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2018Date of Patent: August 25, 2020Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Andrew Bejcek
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Patent number: 10523044Abstract: The invention relates to a device for controlling the electrical power supply of a circuit for a vehicle, said vehicle comprising: an electrical battery (2); an electrical energy storage element (C1), one terminal of which is connected to the first terminal (VBAT) of the battery and the other terminal of which is connected to an electrical earth; a first circuit (5), capable of consuming electricity coming from the electrical battery (2), and having first and second terminals respectively connected to the first and second terminals (?VBAT, VBAT) of the battery (2); and electrical supply management means (QI) configured to allow or prevent the passage of electrical current between said electrical energy storage element (C1) and said first circuit (5).Type: GrantFiled: February 29, 2016Date of Patent: December 31, 2019Assignee: Valeo Systemes ThermiquesInventors: Jonathan Fournier, Xavier Rousseil, Xavier Goumain
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Patent number: 10479220Abstract: A powertrain includes a motor-generator that is coupled to an engine. A starter mechanism is coupled to the engine. A first energy storage device is disposed in a parallel electrical relationship with the starter mechanism. A second energy storage device is disposed in a parallel electrical relationship with the motor-generator. The electrical circuit exhibits a first electrical resistance between the first energy storage device and the motor-generator, and a second electrical resistance between the second energy storage device and the motor-generator. The first electrical resistance is greater than the second electrical resistance so that electrical energy from the motor-generator more easily flows to the second energy storage device than the first energy storage device, and the motor-generator more easily draws electrical energy from the second energy storage device than from the first energy storage device.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2017Date of Patent: November 19, 2019Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Chandra S. Namuduri, Venkata Prasad Atluri, Suresh Gopalakrishnan
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Patent number: 10465645Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for voltage dip stabilization in a motor vehicle are described herein. The apparatus of one embodiment includes a first connection for connecting the apparatus to an energy source, in particular to a vehicle battery and a second connection for connecting the apparatus to a starting apparatus of a motor vehicle. The apparatus also includes a current-limiting module for limiting a starter current, a control unit for driving the current-limiting module, and at least one starting process detector, which is connected to the control unit, for identifying a starting process. The control unit, on the basis of a starting process signal from the starting process detector, prompts the current-limiting module to carry out a starter current-limiting measure.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2018Date of Patent: November 5, 2019Assignee: FLEXTRONICS INTERNATIONAL KFT.Inventor: Thaddaus Sierak
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Patent number: 10431996Abstract: The present disclosure discloses a smart battery, an electric energy allocation bus system, a battery charging and discharging method and an electric energy allocation method. The smart battery internally comprises a battery body portion and a control unit. The smart battery can collect various data of the battery, can be communicated with other smart batteries in a battery pack of a same group and a battery pack control system, and can realize electric quantity transfer among smart batteries of the same group through the electric quantity allocation bus, and realize electric quantity transfer among some batteries of a battery pack accessed to the electric energy allocation bus. Besides, controllable processes of charging and discharging, that is, active balanced charging and discharging, can be realized.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2017Date of Patent: October 1, 2019Assignee: BEIJING SAMEVOLT CO., LTD.Inventor: Guangchen Liu
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Patent number: 10288690Abstract: In a battery cell unit, in which battery cells are connected in series, channels for which the battery cells are divided are sequentially connected to a capacitor, and a channel voltage is measured per the channel. For an abnormal channel whose deviation of the measured channel voltage from a reference voltage is larger than a permissible deviation value, measurement is performed by extending a charging time for charging the capacitor. For a normal channel whose deviation is equal to or smaller than the permissible deviation value, the measurement is performed by shortening the charging time for charging the capacitor so as to maintain a measurement cycle, in which the measurement on all of the channels is performed, to be constant.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2017Date of Patent: May 14, 2019Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Koji Katano