Abstract: A contactor feedback and pre-charge circuit is disclosed that is capable of i) precharging a load to control the inrush of current, ii) discharging the load to eliminate the risk of shock due to capacitive charge, and iii) shutting the system down in the event the contactor unintentionally opens during operation.

Abstract: A voltage source inverter generating a poly phase AC signal is provided that includes an SVPWM controller. The controller is adapted to modify the switching pattern at low sine-wave frequencies creating a more even distribution of the conduction losses. The switching pattern periodically changes the sequence (or rotational sense) of the space vector components from clock-wise to counter-clock-wise direction, and vice-versa.

Abstract: A distributed generation system is disclosed that is capable of conditioning power from a utility grid, providing backup power in the event the utility grid fails, and exporting excess power to the utility grid. The system comprises an engine coupled to an asynchronous generator, an energy storage device, an engine controller capable of managing the engine and controlling its torque or speed or power, and an inverter for generating an AC output and also capable of controlling the frequency and voltage of the generator to match the frequency of a coupled utility grid.

Abstract: Apparatus and process to form structural preforms from an electromagnetic energy activated binder and reinforcing material using low cost tooling. The apparatus includes one or more lay-up stations and forming stations.

Abstract: A controllable switching mechanism integrally housed within a motor to optimally couple the windings of an AC motor for improved torque-speed characteristics. The switching mechanism includes a plurality of double throw switches each with a first and second closed position. The first closed position results in connecting the windings of the AC motor in one configuration for improved torque at lower rotor speeds. The second closed position results in connecting the windings of the AC motor in another configuration for improved torque at higher speeds. The winding configurations may be wye for lower speeds and delta for higher speeds. An accompanying controller, based on various inputs, optimally senses the best time for switching between configurations and sends appropriate control signals to the switching mechanism housed with the AC motor.

Abstract: A crash energy absorption system for a motor vehicle, formed of an assembly of panels of lightweight core material sandwiched within and bonded to reinforcing or stiffener skins. Preferably, the reinforcing or stiffener skins comprise fiberglass, graphite, Kevlar or Spectra reinforced polymers with any combination of fibers and/or fiber orientations, or metal sheets, or ceramic sheets, while the lightweight core material comprises a low-density, dimensionally stable material such as balsa wood, synthetic foam material such as polyurethane foam. The crash energy absorption system may take the form of removable parts that are replaceable after an accident, or may be formed as integral parts of a monocoque body, or as a part of a composite body load-bearing frame.

Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, an electric vehicle drive control system is provided. The system of the present invention controls the supply of actuating power to an electric motor for driving the vehicle. One preferred embodiment of the system permits a user to temporarily override a previously selected maximum power usage level for the motor so as to permit the amount of power supplied to the motor to be increased to a higher maximum power usage level.

Abstract: A system for generating pulse width modulated signals is provided. The signals are generated in response to control and reference signals that are subject to noise-related interference. Signals erroneously generated as a result of the interference are suppressed from the final signals output by the system without reducing the duty cycle of the final output signals.

Abstract: A new vehicle layout in which one or more electric driving motors are located to the rear of the vehicle's rear axle, and connected to a drive shaft that drives the vehicle's rear axle through a rearwards facing differential. This arrangement leaves the entire underside of the vehicle running from the front axle available to accommodate batteries or other large bulky devices.