Abstract: A diagnostic system for controlling an engine low oil pressure indicator in a hybrid electric vehicle includes a powertrain having an engine and an electric traction motor, an oil pressure sensor/sending unit mechanically connected to the engine, an engine speed sensor/sending unit mechanically connected to the engine, a controller having connections to the oil pressure sensor and engine speed sensor, a low oil pressure indicator electrically connected to the controller, a mode selector having modes for “off” and “run/start”, the controller being configured to prevent activation of the low oil pressure indicator when the mode selector is in the “run/start” mode and the engine is not running.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
May 17, 2002
Date of Patent:
May 27, 2003
Assignees:
Ford Global Technologies, LLC, Visteon Global Technologies, Inc.
Abstract: The present invention provides a method and system for determining “engine on” status in a Hybrid Electric Vehicle. A controller determines the engine is necessary and then checks the current “engine on” status. If the engine is not currently running, the controller proceeds to start the engine by commanding the generator to spin or “motor” the engine. The controller then starts fuel flow and spark within the engine to create combustion. A measuring device is then used to determine the crankshaft speed. The controller receives this measurement and determines whether the measured variations in crankshaft speed exceed a calibratable threshold. If the calibratable threshold is exceeded, combustion is determined to be occurring and the engine is on. The controller then turns on the “engine on” status flag.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
December 5, 2000
Date of Patent:
February 4, 2003
Assignee:
Ford Global Technologies, Inc.
Inventors:
David Lee Boggs, Stephen Richard Burke, Stephen John Kotre
Abstract: The invention is an improved trailer adapted for golf equipment. The preferred embodiment has a chassis with wheels having a braking and suspension system and a trailer tongue with a hitch to attach to a motorcycle or a golf cart. An aerodynamic housing provides insulated storage accessed by a hingedly mounted seat. The housing also contains a golf bag seat with means to support and secure a plurality of golf bags. A collapsible or detachable roof, signal lights, additional storage baskets, and a golf ball washer can also be added. The brakes can be configured to activate when the roof or a seat back is raised. The invention can be easily, economically, and efficiently manufactured and marketed using many components already manufactured for use on prior art golf carts.