Abstract: A mobile electronic device holder adapted for removable attachment to a connector device is disclosed.

Abstract: A DC-to-DC converter (32) is connected between two battery banks (12, 14) so that state-of-charge of the bank (12) is that is used to crank the engine of the vehicle is maintained without a direct connection to the alternator. Alternator current flows through one or more cables to the other bank (14) and that bank (14) keeps bank (12) charged via the converter (32).

Abstract: When a truck engine (12) is not running, an auxiliary coolant heater (32) can heat engine coolant and pump it through an occupant compartment heater (16). A coolant flow control system (10), including a valve assembly (84), associates the auxiliary heater (32) with both the occupant compartment heater (16) and engine (12) for selectively distributing heated coolant. When engine (12) has been running and is shut off, auxiliary heater (32) can be turned on and valve assembly (84) operated for occupant compartment heating while keeping the engine (12) warm. When the engine is cold, the auxiliary heater can be turned on and the valve assembly can be operated for engine pre-heating prior to starting.

Abstract: A vehicle power take off system provides power for a variety of systems including a source of alternating current power for conventional electrical equipment to be powered by the vehicle. In a preferred electrical implementation, the power take off system is energized from the vehicle direct current electrical power system and generates alternating current of the desired voltage using a derectifier and step up transformer. Management of the system is implemented through modularized units which may be connected to communicate with another over a vehicle's controller area network. Load management may be monitored by an existing on board computer.

Abstract: A leadless current sensing device utilizes a pair of radially aligned Hall Effect Sensors to generate a current measurement for a conductor without knowledge of the distance between the probe and conductor. The device has particular application to the automotive and truck assembly industry where current measurements at fixed points in an electrical system are required, but close tolerances on spacing of probes expensive.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for monitoring a vehicle battery installed on a motor vehicle and indicating the condition of the battery is provided which does not require removal of the battery from the vehicle. Upon initial movement of the ignition key from off to on, open circuit voltage is measured and compared to an allowable range. If open circuit voltage is acceptable, the possibility that polarization is skewing the result is determined, and if the possibility is indicated, a load test is imposed on the engine. Results of testing are maintained as data records to provide updates of the comparison values used for subsequent tests.