Abstract: A yaw sensor for automotive controls has a microstructure vibrating ring excited by a driving circuit. The driving circuit comprises an amplitude control loop which delivers voltage pulses at the resonant frequency of the ring. A compensation signal is derived from a comparison of a sensed vibration amplitude to a desired vibration amplitude. Failure of vibration is detected by comparing the compensation signal to a threshold which is higher than a normal compensation signal. Alternatively, vibration failure is detected by comparing the sensed vibration to a threshold lower than the desired vibration amplitude. Upon such failure, the yaw output signal is replaced by ground potential.

Abstract: An inductive charging system having a light-activated mechanical positioning system for aligning a charge probe to a charge port in an electric vehicle to charge propulsion batteries of the electric vehicle. The present invention permits automatic docking of the electric vehicle to the charging system without operator assistance or intervention. A light detector, such as an an array of photoelectric detectors is disposed adjacent the charge probe. A light source is disposed on the electric vehicle that is aligned with the charge port. The detector or array of photoelectric detectors is coupled to a servo control system that includes an X-Y-Z mechanical driver that moves the position of the charge probe relative to the position of the charge port. The servo control system moves the position of the charge probe relative to the position of the charge port in the X, Y, or Z directions, based upon signals provided by the detector or array of photoelectric detectors.