Abstract: An electric drive system of a motor vehicle or another battery electric system includes a power inverter module (PIM) connected to a DC power supply, an alternating current (AC) motor connected to the PIM and to a load, and a controller. The motor is a salient machine. Control logic of the controller includes a plant model of the electric drive system. The plant model includes an asymmetric time constant of the motor. The controller selectively modifies the asymmetric time constant via selective and independent operating point-specific manipulation of direct axis (d-axis) and quadrature axis (q-axis) inductance and resistance. The asymmetric time constant is virtually translated in the control logic into a symmetric modified time constant by manipulating or adding virtual inductive and virtual resistive terms independently and per operating point. The controller controls the motor at the operating point using the symmetric modified time constant.

Abstract: A method for open-vocabulary query-based dense retrieval is provided. The method includes monitoring camera data including an image related to an object and referencing a set of queries, each of the queries describing a candidate object to be updated by a remote server device. An encoder of an open-vocabulary pre-trained vision-language model system is utilized to initialize a predefined embedding for each query, and a classifier is initialized by mapping the predefined embeddings to weights of the classifier. The method further includes applying a dense open-vocabulary image encoder on the camera data to create a mass of dense embeddings including a set of spatially-arranged embeddings for the image, each including a matrix including embedding vectors. The classifier is utilized by applying the classifier to the plurality of embedding vectors to classify the object within the operating environment as an identified object. The method further includes publishing the identified object.

Abstract: Systems and method are provided for carwash detection and entry assistance of a vehicle. A system includes a controller that operates to identify the presence of the vehicle at a wash facility, and to determine whether an operator of the vehicle has accepted entry assistance. When the operator has accepted entry assistance, the controller prepares the vehicle for entering the wash facility, determines a path into the wash facility, and assists the operator in entering the vehicle into the wash facility via the path.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for vehicle braking, collision, or braking and collision simulations. The systems include a seat platform configured to be secured within a vehicle such that the seat platform is located on or above a seat of the vehicle, the seat platform configured to be controllably displaced relative to the vehicle seat in at least a forward direction towards the front of the vehicle while having a passenger disposed on the seat platform during a deceleration simulation that includes displacing the seat platform having the passenger disposed thereon from an initial position toward the front of the vehicle, one or more sensors configured to gather sensor data indicative of spatial characteristics of the passenger during the deceleration simulation, wherein at least one of the sensors is a sensor of the vehicle.

Abstract: A method to create a garnet-based solid electrolyte separator for a battery cell is provided. The method includes coating a garnet-based material powder, initially including a lithium carbonate layer upon an outer surface of the garnet-based material powder, with aluminum fluoride to create a fluoride-treated garnet-based material powder. The method further includes operating a solid-state reaction upon the fluoride-treated garnet-based material powder, such that the aluminum fluoride reacts with the lithium carbonate layer to create aluminum oxide, carbon dioxide, and lithium fluoride. The solid-state reaction creates a fluoride-treated and solid-state reacted garnet-based material powder including the aluminum oxide and the lithium fluoride. The method further includes sintering the fluoride-treated and solid-state reacted garnet-based material powder including the aluminum oxide and the lithium fluoride.

Abstract: A system for disassembling a energy cell having a case includes a energy cell securement device arranged on a moveable table; and a cutting tool. The energy cell securement device is configured to fixedly secure the energy cell with a portion of the case exposed proximal to the cutting tool. The moveable table is configured to convey the energy cell securement device such that the cutting tool cleaves the portion of the case of the energy cell.

Abstract: A method for operating a mobile telecommunications device connected to a first mobile telecommunications network having a country code identifying a first country includes determining whether the mobile telecommunications device crosses from the first country into a second country. The method also includes, if the mobile telecommunications device crosses from the first country into the second country, scanning, through the mobile telecommunications device, for mobile telecommunications networks discoverable to the mobile communications device, where each discoverable mobile telecommunications network has a country code identifying a service country of that mobile telecommunications network.

Abstract: Methods of detecting that a vehicle tracking device is tracking humans includes determining whether the vehicle tracking device has been removed from its linked vehicle; determining whether the vehicle tracking device is being used to track a human; and alerting when determined that the vehicle tracking device is tracking humans. Methods may determine if a weighted score is greater than a threshold and alerting: an owner of the vehicle tracking device; setting off an audio alert on the vehicle tracking device; or notifying authorities. Methods may detect human movement by detecting steep elevation changes; detecting acceleration data consistent human movement; or detecting movement that is not a road. Methods may determine if the vehicle tracking device is with a different vehicle or building by: detecting the different vehicle's hotspot; detecting the building's Wi-Fi; or detecting GPS movement that matches the different vehicle's GPS movement.

Abstract: A system and method for vehicle accessibility parking including creating an accessibility profile associated with a vehicle and also creating a profile of the vehicle. Based on the profile of the vehicle and the accessibility profile, one or more parking locations are identified. The method includes a ranking, based on the profile of the vehicle and the accessibility profile, the identified one or more parking locations. The vehicle is then routed to a highest ranking identified one or more parking locations. Once routed, a sensor in the vehicle determines if a biasing of the vehicle in a parking space in the highest ranking identified one or more parking locations is required. Based on the biasing, an adjusting of a target parking position for the vehicle in the parking space is performed.

Abstract: A system includes a vehicle external to a back office portal. The back office portal is operational to generate a signed update mode record. The vehicle has multiple devices and a component. The component is in communication with the devices, and operational to receive the signed update mode record, verify that the signed update mode record is from the back office portal and was created for the component, erase credentials within the component that establish the component as valid to the plurality of devices in response to the verification of the signed update mode record, perform an irreversible action within the component, enter a software update mode, exit the software update mode, and reject each request from the plurality of devices to the component that relies on the credentials that were erased from the component.

Abstract: Methods of securing a vehicle, via controller, include monitoring local events; determining whether the vehicle is parked in a dangerous area; and taking corrective action to protect the vehicle. Methods may include determining whether local events have occurred within a prescribed distance and, if the local events have occurred within the prescribed distance, arming the vehicle. Methods may include determining whether valuable items have been left in view and notifying a user of the vehicle if valuable items have been left in view via wireless communications. Methods may include locking vehicle doors and monitoring external and internal data or self-driving the vehicle to a safer area. Furthermore, if the methods determine that a theft is occurring on the vehicle, using nearby self-driving vehicles to block the vehicle in, which may be reached via V2X or a back office asking the nearby vehicles to block the vehicle.

Abstract: A rechargeable energy storage system (RESS) includes battery cells, each having a respective gas vent. The RESS also includes a cell support assembly with thermal runaway mitigation and has a cell holder for supporting the battery cells. The cell holder defines apertures arranged in rows and each aperture fluidly communicates with one cell vent. The assembly also includes multiple thermal-barrier strips adhered to the holder. Each thermal-barrier strip extends parallel to a respective aperture row to thermally insulate each corresponding cell from gases expelled by neighboring cells during a thermal runaway. The assembly additionally includes multiple potting elements. Each potting element is arranged in one of the apertures between a respective cell and a corresponding thermal-barrier strip to thereby adhere to the cell and to the corresponding thermal-barrier strip and maintain position of the cell on the holder. A motor vehicle may employ such a RESS.

Abstract: A battery cell includes a cathode element, an anode element, and an electrolyte disposed in contact with each of the cathode and anode elements. The battery cell also includes a battery cell case constructed from a rigid material and defining an internal chamber configured to house each of the cathode element, the anode element, and the electrolyte. The battery cell case defines at least one aperture configured to provide a gas path between the internal chamber and an external environment. The battery cell additionally includes a reversible, multiple-use valve assembly mounted to the battery cell case and configured to selectively open a fluid flow through the at least one aperture to relieve a gas pressure within the internal chamber exceeding a predetermined pressure threshold.

Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for data processing that include cameras and processors. The cameras are configured to obtain data including frames. The processors are coupled to the cameras, and are configured to at least facilitate identifying, for each frame, regions of interest for privacy protection; extracting, for each region of interest, high level properties of the region of interest for the frame; generating a replacement image for each of the regions of interest, thereby protecting privacy while maintaining the high level properties of the region of interest; and updating the frame utilizing the replacement image for each of the one or more regions of interest, generating an updated frame that protects individual privacy.

Abstract: A method and system for tracking attached objects for controlling a vehicle. The method includes receiving, by a processor, sensor data of an environment associated with the vehicle that includes an object. The method includes determining, based on the sensor data, whether the object corresponds to an attached object type, and determining whether the sensor data includes a second vehicle. The method includes determining an attached object region associated with the second vehicle based on a distance between the second vehicle and the vehicle, and determining whether a position of the object is within the attached object region. The method includes determining whether a difference between a velocity of the object and a vehicle velocity of the vehicle is within a velocity threshold based on the distance. The method includes determining that the object is an attached object and controlling the vehicle based on the determining.

Abstract: A telematics controller, a second controller, a dual-function audio speaker, and a switch are included. The telematics controller is in communication with a first microphone. The telematics controller includes a first amplifier, and is configured to communicate with a remote facility. The second controller includes a second amplifier and a second microphone. The switch is arranged in the telematics controller, and an electrical link is arranged between the second controller and the telematics controller. The dual-function audio speaker is selectively connectable to the second amplifier via the switch and the electrical link. The dual-function audio speaker is also selectively connectable to the first amplifier via the switch. The switch is operatively controlled by the telematics controller, and the telematics controller is operative to control the switch to control the dual-function audio speaker to effect wireless audio communication between the vehicle and the remote facility.

Abstract: Presented are automated vehicle systems for provisioning manufacturing mode (MM) for connected vehicles, methods for making/using such systems, and wireless-enabled vehicles with MM functionality. A method of controlling operation of a vehicle includes receiving an MM-install signal indicating the vehicle has reached a predefined assembly line location during vehicle assembly. When at this predefined location, the vehicle is installed with an MM operating mode, which contains a predefined spatial limitation, a preset MM start trigger, and an anti-theft protocol. A controller of the vehicle activates the MM operating mode responsive to detecting the vehicle experiencing the preset MM start trigger while within the predefined spatial limitation.

Abstract: Methods, apparatus, and systems for sensor alignment include acquiring a translational vector, a first calibration point location and a second calibration point location, determining an expected rotational orientation in response to the translational vector, the first calibration point location and the second calibration point location, capturing an image of the a first calibration point and the second calibration point, determining a first position of the first calibration point and a second position of the second calibration point in response to the image, calculating a calculated rotational orientation in response to the first position of the first calibration point and the second position of the second calibration point, determining a calibration value in response to the calculated rotational orientation, storing the calibration value and controlling a vehicle in response to the calibration value and a subsequent image.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for controlling a vehicle. In one embodiment, a method includes: receiving, by the controller, return data generated by a lidar device of the vehicle; determining, by the controller, at least one overlapping channel of redundant return data; determining, by the controller, an optimization framework of equations based on modeled errors of the at least one overlapping channel; solving, by the controller, the optimization framework using a least squares method to determine an error value; determining, by the controller, a state of health of the lidar device based on the error value; compensating, by the controller, the return data from the lidar device based on the error value; and controlling, by the controller, the vehicle based on the compensated return data.

Abstract: An electrode stack for a solid-state battery is provided. The electrode stack includes a cathode. The cathode includes a cathode current collector and a first layer of material applied to the cathode current collector. The first layer of material includes a cathode active material, a first ionomer configured as a first binder, and a conductive material. The electrode stack further includes a solid electrolyte separator layer, including a second ionomer configured as a second binder. The electrode stack further includes an anode including a layer including lithium metal, silicon, or graphite and an anode current collector. One of the first ionomer and the second ionomer includes a shape-memory ionomer configured for selectively restoring the electrode stack to an original shape.

Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for controlling deceleration of a vehicle towing a trailer. In an embodiment, a method includes: generating, by a processor, trailer brake command data to pulsate brakes of the trailer; in response to the generating the trailer brake command data, storing, in a data storage device of the vehicle, a first set of deceleration data; generating, by the processor, vehicle brake command data to pulsate brakes of the vehicle; in response to the generating the vehicle brake command data, storing, in the data storage device, a second set of deceleration data; determining, by the processor, a maximum vehicle brake torque threshold where a maximum trailer brake output occurs based on the first set of deceleration data and the second set of deceleration data; and controlling, by the processor, the brakes of the trailer based on the maximum vehicle brake torque threshold.

Abstract: A method for constructing a cell support assembly with thermal runaway mitigation for a multi-cell rechargeable energy storage system (RESS) include forming a cell holder configured to support the RESS battery cells. The cell holder has a holder body defining a plurality of apertures arranged in rows, such that each aperture is configured to align and be in fluid communication with a cell vent of one of the RESS battery cells. Individual embodiments of the method also include various techniques of arranging a plurality of thermal-barrier strips and potting elements to align with apertures of the cell holder body and adhering the thermal-barrier strips to the potting elements and to the cell holder. The resultant cell support assembly operates to channel thermal runaway energy away from the affected battery cell(s) and out of the RESS enclosure without triggering thermal runaway in adjacent cells.

Abstract: A system for providing hearing accessibility for an occupant in a vehicle includes at least one display unit operatively connected to the vehicle. The at least one display unit has multiple sections, including a media screen adapted to display video content and a plurality of text boxes. A controller is in electronic communication with the at least one display unit, the controller being adapted to selectively execute a dictation engine. The controller has a processor and tangible, non-transitory memory on which instructions are recorded. The controller is adapted to receive audio input data from a plurality of sources. The controller is adapted to generate respective transcribed data from the audio input data, via the dictation engine. The respective transcribed data is displayed in the plurality of text boxes.

Abstract: A method of planning a path for a vehicle is disclosed herein. The method includes receiving a plurality of perception images. At least one perception task is detected from the plurality of perception images including identifying a neighboring vehicle. A plurality of vehicle descriptors of the neighboring vehicle is recognized, and a plurality of predetermined vehicle descriptor sets are associated with a corresponding one of a plurality of cluster values with each cluster value being associated with a risk factor. The risk factor is determined based on mapping the plurality of vehicle descriptors recognized for the neighboring vehicle onto one of the plurality of predetermined vehicle descriptor sets and assigning the risk factor associated with the cluster value to the neighboring vehicle. The path for the vehicle is planned based on the at least one perception task and the risk factor and the path is executed for the vehicle.

Abstract: A method of planning a path for a vehicle. The method includes receiving perception images of an area surrounding the vehicle with at least one sensor and detecting at least one perception task from the perception images with the at least one perception task identifying at least one neighboring vehicle. The method calculates a risk factor for the at least one neighboring vehicle by recognizing a behavior of the at least one neighboring vehicle from the perception images and plans the path for the vehicle based on the at least one perception task and the risk factor. The path is then executed for the vehicle.

Abstract: A method of operating an autonomous vehicle. The method includes collecting user data regarding a user of the autonomous vehicle and analyzing the user data to assign a pickup score to the user for determining when to relocate the autonomous vehicle from a first parking location. The autonomous vehicle is directed to relocate from the first parking location when the pickup score exceeds a predetermined threshold. A second parking location and a parking position are determined for the autonomous vehicle at a pickup location based on the user data when relocating the autonomous vehicle to pick up the user.

Abstract: An alternating current (AC) choke having a housing extending along a longitudinal axis and at least partially defining a three-phase conductor opening extending along the longitudinal axis. A plurality of core segments is at least partially enclosed in the housing along the longitudinal axis and surround the longitudinal axis.

Abstract: A method of selecting a parking spot for an autonomous vehicle. The method includes receiving a parking request to park the autonomous vehicle at a parking infrastructure and determining a parking priority for the autonomous vehicle. A parking space is assigned for the autonomous vehicle from a pool of available parking spaces based on the parking priority determined for the autonomous vehicle. A departure status of the autonomous vehicle is monitored to determine if the autonomous vehicle is leaving the parking space. The parking space is associated with the pool of available parking spaces based on the departure status of the autonomous vehicle changing to leaving the parking space.

Abstract: A system for assisting a vehicle having a trailer includes a drone having at least one sensor adapted to collect sensor data. The drone is selectively attachable to the vehicle. A controller is in communication with the drone. The controller is adapted to selectively execute an assessment mode, an operational mode, and a delivery mode, the operational mode being executed after the assessment mode is completed. The drone is adapted to conduct a set of initial checks during the assessment mode, the drone being adapted to fly around the trailer and/or the vehicle during the assessment mode. The drone is attached to the vehicle during the operational mode. The delivery mode is executed upon arrival of the vehicle at a predefined destination, the drone being adapted to be in flight during the delivery mode.

Abstract: A control system for a rotary electric machine includes an inverter including a plurality of power switches, a heat exchanger, first temperature sensors arranged to monitor the power switches, a second temperature sensor arranged to monitor the heat exchanger, and a controller. An expected power loss is determined based upon electric current, switching functions, and electrical characteristics of the power switches. A plurality of power capacity terms are determined based upon the expected power loss in the inverter, the temperatures of the power switches, and the temperature of the heat exchanger. The inverter is controlled based upon the aforementioned power capacities.

Abstract: Characterizing notification distinctiveness for a finite-system machine (FSM) modeled system based on distinctiveness ratings generated for state transitions of the FSM-modeled system. The distinctiveness ratings may be operable for comparatively quantifying relative distinctiveness for notifications used to provide feedback for state transitions. The distinctiveness ratings may be generated to comparatively quantify relative distinctiveness between notifications of a transitioned-from and a transitioned-to state of the state transition associated therewith.

Abstract: Multimode messaging of the type suitable for use in communicating a plurality of datasets to a vehicle, a telematics unit, and/or another device. The multimode message may be facilitated with a hybrid platform having a plurality of radio access points configured for supporting messaging with a vehicle according to differing types of wireless radio communications and a back office controller configured for determining multimode information to be added to each of the datasets prior to the datasets being communicated to the hybrid platform for transport to the vehicle.

Abstract: Presented are vehicle control systems and logic for provisioning remote vehicle services (RVS), methods for making/using such systems, and wireless-enabled vehicles executing RVS operations governed by such systems. A method of controlling an RVS operation of a vehicle includes a vehicle controller receiving, either directly or indirectly, a request to activate the RVS operation. Responsive to receiving the RVS activation request, wireless signal data is collected to determine wireless signal states of the subject vehicle and of multiple crowd-sourced vehicles proximal to the subject vehicle. Using the host vehicle's and crowd-sourced vehicles' wireless signal states, a signal state heatmap is generated with a spatial mapping of signal state magnitudes as a map overlay. The heatmap visualizes a signal state magnitude in an area surrounding the host vehicle.

Abstract: A dual electric motor coupling system for a vehicle including: a vehicle having a vehicle body and a first electric motor, a second electric motor, and a vehicle axle attached to the vehicle body. The vehicle axle including a first rotating member coupled to the first electric motor and connectable to a first wheel assembly of the vehicle, and a second rotating member coupled to the second electric motor and connectable to a second wheel assembly of the vehicle, wherein the first and second wheel assemblies, when connected to the first rotating member and second rotating member, respectively, are disposed on opposing ends of the vehicle axle. A mechanical coupling is disposed in relation to the first electric motor and the second electric motor and is operable to selectively couple the first electric motor and the second electric motor by providing a coupling torque to the vehicle axle.

Abstract: A prismatic battery cell assembly includes a prismatic container having a body portion composed with side portions, a top portion arranged on a first end of the body portion and a bottom portion arranged on a second end of the body portion; a first terminal and a second terminal; and battery cells that are arranged in the prismatic container in a stack. Each of the battery cells has a first current collector that is electrically connected to a first foil and a second current collector that is electrically connected to a second foil. The second terminal is arranged on the second end, and the second foils are joined to the second terminal. The first foils are joined to the prismatic container, and the first terminal is the body portion of the prismatic container.

Abstract: A method for generating a populated state transition table for a finite-state machine (FSM)-modeled system includes receiving system traits via a host computer of a modeling system. The system traits include states, state transitions, and events of the FSM-modeled system. The method includes generating an initial state transition table in response to receipt of the system traits, the table being partially-populated by the system traits. The method additionally includes populating the table in response to user inputs to thereby auto-generate a populated state transition table, and error-checking the populated table using predetermined error-checking criteria, including searching the populated table via error-checking logic of the host computer for an omitted critical trait of the FSM-modeled system. The method also includes communicating an alert to the user in response to the omitted critical trait.

Abstract: A weld nut feeder pin includes a first pin end opposite a second pin end, and a pin body that extends from the first pin end toward the second pin end. The weld nut feeder pin includes a pin fluid conduit defined through the second pin end to extend to the first pin end and through the pin body, and the pin fluid conduit is configured to receive a pressurized fluid. The weld nut feeder pin includes a plurality of outlet conduits defined through the pin body so as to be in communication with the pin fluid conduit. Each of the plurality of outlet conduits is spaced apart about a perimeter of the pin body and extends along an axis. The axis is oblique to a longitudinal axis of the weld nut feeder pin.

Abstract: Component manufacturing methods and systems and methods are provided for six degree of freedom control of a component prior to molding. A method involves obtaining measurement data from a measurement device indicative of a measured orientation of a component mounted to a surface of a tool associated with a molding assembly, determining an orientation adjustment based on a relationship between the measured orientation of the component and a reference orientation associated with the molding assembly, determining an actuation command for operating an actuation arrangement coupled to the tool based at least in part on the orientation adjustment, and providing the actuation command to the actuation arrangement to actuate the tool to rotate the surface in accordance with the orientation adjustment prior to forming a molding compound on an exposed surface of the component using the molding assembly.

Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for managing vehicle manifest data at a vehicle. Vehicle manifest data is received from a plant operation system at a vehicle manifest data management system of the vehicle. The vehicle manifest data includes a plurality of component identifiers. Each of the component identifiers corresponds to a vehicle component for installation in the vehicle during a vehicle assembly process. The vehicle manifest data includes installation data associated with the installation of each of the vehicle components. A first component identifier associated with a first vehicle component and a first assembly station identifier associated with a first assembly station equipped to install the first vehicle component are received at the vehicle manifest data management system from the plant operation system. The installation data associated with the first vehicle component is transmitted from the vehicle manifest data management system to a station controller of the first assembly station.

Abstract: A prismatic battery cell is provided. The prismatic battery cell includes a hard outer case including an internal volume and an electrode stack or a jelly roll electrode disposed within the internal volume. The prismatic battery cell further includes a foam structure disposed within the internal volume. The foam structure is configured for applying a desirable pressure upon the electrode stack or the jelly roll electrode and for compressing when the electrode stack or the jelly roll electrode expands.

Abstract: A floating cold plate spigot sealing system for a vehicle includes an electronic module, disposed within an electronic module compartment attached to a vehicle, a floating cold plate having a spigot, disposed adjacent to the electronic module, and a cover having a coolant opening, disposed adjacent to the electronic module, a spigot seal disposed in the coolant opening. The spigot extends through the spigot seal, which includes a lower housing having at least one seal, and a nut that is engageable with the lower housing to form a seal between the spigot seal and the spigot. The at least one seal includes a first seal disposed between an inner surface of the vertical portion of the lower housing and the outer surface of the spigot, and a second seal disposed between the bottom surface of the cover and a bottom surface of the horizontal portion of the lower housing.

Abstract: An advertisement system includes a tuner, an error detection and correction circuit, a decoder, and an output device. The tuner is operational to listen on a first channel of a plurality of channels for a first received packet during a current scan window. The error detection and correction circuit is operational to command the tuner to listen on a second channel of the plurality of channels within the current scan window for a second received packet in response to (i) an incomplete reception of the first received packet or (ii) the first received packet having uncorrectable errors, and correct the first received packet to create a first advertisement packet in response to the first received packet being received and correctable. The decoder is operational to decode the first advertisement packet to generate first advertisement information. The output device is operational to present the first advertisement information as first advertisement data.

Abstract: A multi-cell rechargeable energy storage system (RESS) includes a plurality of battery cells arranged in rows and a single-piece cooling subsystem configured to remove thermal energy from the plurality of battery cells. The cooling subsystem includes a cell holder constructed from an impact-resistant material defining a plurality of pockets, wherein each pocket is configured to accept and retain one of the plurality of battery cells. The cooling subsystem also includes a coolant header disposed within the cell holder and having a plurality of ribbon coolant lines arranged in parallel and configured to circulate a coolant between individual battery cells. In a cross-sectional view, each ribbon coolant line is arranged inside the cell holder and over-molded and encased by a thermal interface material (TIM). Adjacent ribbon coolant lines embrace one row of the battery cells. A method of constructing the single-piece cooling subsystem is also included.

Abstract: A fluidic coolant system for a fuel cell stack that includes a fluidic pump, a heat exchanger, and an ion exchange filter housing assembly is described. A fluidic outlet of the heat exchanger is fluidly coupled to the fluidic pump, and a fluidic inlet of the heat exchanger is fluidly coupled to the fuel cell stack. The fluidic pump is arranged to supply coolant from the heat exchanger to the fuel cell stack and the ion exchange filter housing assembly.

Abstract: A system including a flow straightener for a fuel cell cathode subsystem is provided. The system includes an intake manifold including a tube configured for providing an airflow to a compressor of the fuel cell cathode subsystem. The intake manifold includes an inlet configured for receiving the airflow into the intake manifold. The system further includes a mass air flow sensor disposed upon the intake manifold and a flow straightener disposed within the intake manifold between the inlet and the mass air flow sensor. The intake manifold includes an upstream portion between the flow straightener and the intake manifold inlet. The intake manifold further includes a downstream portion between the flow straightener and the mass air flow sensor. The flow straightener is configured for causing the airflow within the downstream portion to be less turbulent than the airflow within the upstream portion.

Abstract: A spigot assembly for connecting a coolant flow conduit to a rechargeable battery thermal management system includes a male spigot, a coolant spigot having a connector body defining an internal coolant flow cavity and having a conduit connection end opening and a male spigot connection end opening. The spigot assembly includes a ceramifiable silicone rubber seal. The connector body is configured to receive the male spigot within the internal coolant flow cavity at the male spigot connection end opening, with the ceramifiable silicone rubber seal disposed between and sealing against an outer side of the male spigot and an inner side of the connector body. A spigot assembly is disclosed that has a collar surrounding the connector body. The collar has an angled inner wall configured to align the male spigot with the connector body and shield the seal from heat. A vehicle having the spigot assembly is disclosed.

Abstract: Presented are vehicle charging systems and control logic provisioning smart vehicle charging using encrypted wireless connectivity, methods for making/using such systems, and vehicles interoperable with such systems. A method of controlling a charging operation of a vehicle includes a vehicle controller retrieving a unique ID assigned to the vehicle from a memory device. When approaching an electric vehicle charging station (EVCS), the controller responsively embeds the unique ID in a wireless message, including encrypting and inserting the unique ID into a dedicated extension frame within the wireless message. The vehicle then broadcasts the wireless message with the embedded and encrypted unique ID. An EVCS controller parses the encrypted unique ID from the wireless message and transmits the encrypted unique ID to a back-office (BO) vehicle services provider.

Abstract: A fuel cell system includes a dry end unit, a wet end unit comprising a terminal-compression plate, an insulator plate, and a base plate, and a plurality of fuel cells disposed between the dry end unit and the wet end unit. Each of the plurality of fuel cells includes a perimeter area that surrounds the plurality of fuel cells. The terminal-compression plate functions as a compression plate and a terminal plate, and where the base plate is used to uniformly compress the plurality of fuel cells through the insulator plate and the terminal-compression plate.

Abstract: A battery system includes a plurality of battery cells and a battery system enclosure surrounded by an external environment. The battery system enclosure is configured to house the plurality of battery cells and includes an enclosure tray configured to support the plurality of battery cells and an enclosure cover configured to engage the enclosure tray and seal the battery system enclosure. The battery system also includes an exhaust manifold arranged between the plurality of battery cells and the enclosure cover. The exhaust manifold includes multiple individual gas paths in fluid communication with an exhaust outlet. The gas paths are configured to collect high-temperature gases from each of the plurality of battery cells and guide the high-temperature gases from each of the plurality of battery cells to the exhaust outlet. The exhaust outlet is configured to discharge the high-temperature gases distally from the plurality of battery cells.

Abstract: Vehicles, systems and methods for acquiring a choreographic light pattern not previously available to the vehicles are presented. In some aspects, a target vehicle includes a processing system therein, an input interface coupled to the processing system and accessible to a user, and one or more image or other sensors positioned for capturing data from a source vehicle emitting a light pattern of interest. The processing system may scan and record a light pattern emitted by a portion of another vehicle in a line of sight of the vehicle. The scan uses data from the sensors and pattern recognition code. The identified light pattern is converted into metadata and transmitted to a central database. If the transmitted pattern is available and compatible with the target vehicle, the database may send a prompt to the target vehicle to download or purchase the pattern.