Abstract: A unique method of authenticating access to a computer system or central processor is disclosed. The computer system is in data communication with a plurality of stored challenges and response pairs in a set, with one challenge corresponding to only one response. After a user successfully logs onto the system, the system randomly selects one of the challenges from the set to which the user must respond. If, after comparing the user response with the response in the set corresponding to the selected challenge, the system determines a match, the system continues to select challenges and prompting for responses and will ultimately allow access to the central processor after a predetermined number of matches are received from the user.

Abstract: A battery includes a module having a case with a conductive connector mounted on each of two opposed exterior walls. At least one connector includes compliant contacts. The connectors are respectively connected to electroactive material within the case to form positive and negative electrodes. An external connector complimentarily-shaped to the connectors in the case releasably interconnects two like modules together. The external connector may be mounted in a single planar carrier insertable between two adjacent modules. The carrier has guide members formed thereon to facilitate the alignment and positioning of adjacent modules with respect to each other. A voltage tap may be mounted on the external connector to provide an external voltage monitoring tap between two interconnected modules. A thermocouple may be mounted on the carrier for sensing the temperature of the case of an adjacent module.

Abstract: A high amperage switch is provided for interrupting flow of power through a circuit. First and second connectors are connected in the circuit with the circuit being open between the first and second connectors. An electrically conductive bridging member includes first and second complementary-shaped connectors respectively mateable with the first and second connectors for electrically coupling the first and second connectors together when the bridging member is in the closed position and interrupting the circuit when the bridging member is in an open position. The bridging member is moveable between the closed and opened positions. The present invention is particularly well adapted for use in a vehicle having an electrical circuit for supplying power from a battery on the vehicle to at least one electrical component used on the vehicle.

Abstract: A battery includes a case with two pairs of connectors mounted on exterior walls. One pair of connectors are connected to electroactive material within the case to form positive and negative electrodes. The other pair of connectors are interconnected by an insulated electrical conductor extending through the case. A jumper interconnects one connector of each pair of connectors to form a series electrical path through the interconnected modules. Separate connectors are complimentarily-shaped to the connectors in the case for releasably interconnecting a plurality of like modules together. The separate connectors may be mounted in a single planar carrier insertable between two adjacent modules. The carrier has guide members formed thereon to facilitate the alignment and positioning of adjacent modules with respect to each other. A voltage tap may be mounted on one of the separate connectors to provide an external voltage monitoring tap between interconnected modules.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for instantly forming an air bag deployment opening in an auto interior trim panel structure such as an instrument panel or steering wheel cover just prior to inflation of the air bag. A delineated pattern of concentrated energy is instantaneously applied to the inside of the trim structure as by ignition of a segment of detonating cord to fracture a section of the trim panel in a required door shape just before the air bag is inflated. The air bag, stored behind the trim panel, engages and pushes open the door so formed in the trim panel when activated, and is able to be deployed through the resulting opening. The trim panel may therefor be free from any exteriorly visible markings defining a deployment door until deployment actually occurs.