Abstract: A plurality of motors for use in driving accessories on a vehicle, are each powered by three-phase current. A single controller controls the supply three-phase current to the plurality of motors. In another aspect of the invention, pseudothree-phase current is created from a direct current voltage source. A chopping circuit chops the voltage into a plurality of pulses, and a phase shift circuit then creates phase-shifted power signals from those pulses. The present invention thus enables the use of three-phase alternating current motors on a vehicle to drive accessories. This reduces the cost and size of the required motors.

Abstract: A vehicle brake system includes an automated brake application feature. A signaling device allows an individual to generate a signal indicating a desire to have the brakes applied independent of the pedal normally used to apply the brakes. A remote signaling device using wireless communication allows an individual to stand at any location within the vicinity of the vehicle and have the brakes applied without requiring someone to manually operate the pedal device to operate the brakes. The inventive arrangement allows an individual to inspect the operation of brake components and to insure that brake lights are properly functioning.

Abstract: A vehicle data storage system in communication with a diagnostic unit provides a “quick fault” screen which summarizes event data stored within a storage device of the vehicle data storage system. The “quick fault” screen displays a plurality of keys organized in matrix format to display an overview of fault conditions through animation and/or coloring of each key in response to the event data stored within the storage device. By selecting any animated/colored key, a more detailed representation of the event data stored in the storage device for the particular fault condition is presented. The detailed subsystem screen presents the event data recorded within the storage device in a graphical and/or tabulation format showing associate subsytem parameters over time.

Abstract: A shock absorber comprises a magnetized plunger and a conductive coil disposed about the magnetized plunger. The coil forms a circuit that generates an electromagnetic force so as to damp movement of the magnetized plunger and a wheel coupled to the magnetized plunger. Movement of the magnetized plunger within the conductive coil may itself create a current, which may be stored by a battery for subsequent use.

Abstract: A method and system is provided for inspecting and maintaining a vehicle. In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of capturing vehicle data including the steps of servicing a vehicle at a location corresponding to service data. Service data is input into a portable handheld computing device and transferred from the portable handheld computing device to a vehicle onboard computer. Vehicle warranty data is provided on the vehicle onboard computer. The service data and the vehicle warranty data are retrieved from the vehicle onboard computer. In another embodiment of the present invention, a method of inspecting a vehicle includes communicating with the vehicle systems using a portable handheld computing device to automatically inspect the vehicle systems. Prompts are displayed on the portable handheld computing device to guide a vehicle inspector to inspect additional vehicle systems.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system for automatically shutting down a vehicle. The system includes a vehicle system for performing a vehicle function such as brakes for performing braking of the vehicle. A vehicle control system controls the vehicle system by controlling valve switches or actuators to manipulate the vehicle system. A portable handheld computing device includes a program defining a vehicle shutdown sequence. Preferably, the portable handheld computing device is what is known as a personal digital assistant (PDA), such as a Handspring® or Palmpilot®. A cradle removably receives the portable handheld computing device to connect the portable handheld computing device with the vehicle control system, such as through the vehicle databus. A switch enables the portable handheld computing device to command the vehicle control system to perform the vehicle shutdown sequence.

Abstract: A low cost brake sensor incorporates a sensor portion extending through one of the rivet holes in the backing plate of the brake pad. A locking sleeve snaps onto the sensor portion and secures the sensor to the backing plate. Preferably, the locking sleeve has a lip which snaps into a groove in an outer periphery of a sensor portion. The present invention thus provides a relatively low cost and secure way for attaching the sensor to the brake pad. No modification of the lining or the backing plate is necessary.

Abstract: A low cost brake sensor incorporates a sensor portion extending through one of the rivet holes in the backing plate of the brake pad. A locking sleeve snaps onto the sensor portion and secures the sensor to the backing plate. Preferably, the locking sleeve has a lip which snaps into a groove in an outer periphery of a sensor portion. The present invention thus provides a relatively low cost and secure way for attaching the sensor to the brake pad. No modification of the lining or the backing plate is necessary.

Abstract: An apparatus for controlling multiple vehicle systems includes a single power supply that provides a direct current source. The power supply is comprised of a thirty-six volt (36 V) battery power distribution system. A converter is electrically connected to the power supply to convert direct current to alternating current. A plurality of induction motors are used to operate various vehicle systems. The motors receive alternating current via electrical connections between the converter and the motors. A central processor is connected to relays sending power to each of the motors and provides control signals to the motors based on input from control members used to activate each of the various vehicle systems. At least one sensor is associated with each of the motors to monitor voltage or current of the respective motor and to generate a diagnostic signal that is sent to the processor.

Abstract: A method of utilizing a vehicle driver log is provided that includes the steps of navigating to a vehicle driver log input screen and inputting the vehicle information. The method further includes the steps of inputting driver status information including driver duty and driver activity over time and displaying the vehicle driver log on a vehicle driver log screen. The method may be effectuated using a portable handheld computing device including an input device for inputting the vehicle information and driver status information that includes the driver duty and driver activity. The computing device may include a processor for processing the vehicle and driver status information. A display device displays the vehicle driver log including the driver status information. A method for providing driver efficiency feedback is also provided. The method includes steps of monitoring vehicle operating parameters.

Abstract: A refrigerant fluid is placed within a driveline component, and in particular an axle housing. This refrigerant fluid is received within a sealed reservoir such that it is sealed from the typical lubricant in the driveline component. The lubricant heats the refrigerant through a housing such that the refrigerant vaporizes within the driveline component housing, thus cooling the lubricant. The vaporized refrigerant travels to a cooling chamber mounted remotely from the reservoir. The cooled refrigerant is cooled to a liquid state, and then returned to the reservoir. Preferably the cooling chamber is positioned on the vehicle frame vertically above the driveline component.

Abstract: In the disclosed embodiment of this invention, sets of straight wire bundles are molded or otherwise encased about a cylindrical rotor casing. The straight wire bundles lie parallel to the axis of the cylindrical rotor casing. This process is an alternative to a traditional type of electric motor armature which uses a wire that is coiled around the cylindrical rotor casing. Since the wire bundles are straight and not pulled from a single wire roll, breaking and stretching of the wire is greatly reduced. The straight wire bundles are connected at their ends using a circuit cap to form a complete electrical circuit.

Abstract: A method of forming a relatively low cost motor provides a motor rotor and/or stator which has a generally solid body. The core of the body is formed of a less conductive material, and a more conductive material is at circumferentially spaced locations on the core. In one embodiment, the conductive material and the less conductive material are co-extruded. In a second embodiment, the core material is formed by powdered metal technology, and the conductive material is deposited onto the core.

Abstract: An AC motor is utilized to drive a closure on a vehicle. The use of the AC motor provides valuable benefits with regard to cost and size. Further, a three-phase AC motor may be utilized, and the pulses in its power supply monitored to determine an obstruction in the path of the closure. Frequency control may also be utilized to provide optimum control of the drive of the component at both start-up and stop.

Abstract: A plurality of motors for use in driving accessories on a vehicle, are each powered by three-phase current. A single controller controls the supply three-phase current to the plurality of motors. In another aspect of the invention, pseudothree-phase current is created from a direct current voltage source. A chopping circuit chops the voltage into a plurality of pulses, and a phase shift circuit then creates phase-shifted power signals from those pulses. The present invention thus enables the use of three-phase alternating current motors on a vehicle to drive accessories. This reduces the cost and size of the required motors.

Abstract: A system for controlling multiple vehicle includes a twelve volt (12V)/forty-two volt (42V) battery power distribution system that provides direct current. The system converts single phase alternating current to multiple phase alternating current to simultaneously power multiple vehicle systems. A single pulse width modulation generator converts the direct current from the 12V/42V battery power distribution system to alternating current. This provides one power supply path of alternating current, which has a first phase. A splitter device splits the one power supply path of alternating current into three power paths. A lead/lag circuit is used to shift the alternating current of the second path to a second phase different than the first phase of the first power supply path. A second lead/lag circuit for shifts the alternating current of the third path to a third phase different than the first phase or the second phase. This creates a three-phase alternating current power from a single direct current source.

Abstract: A brake shoe assembly includes a backing plate and a brake lining. The brake lining has an interface surface abutting the backing plate and a wear surface for contacting a vehicle. A pair of temperature sensors are positioned adjacent to the interface surface and spaced unequal distances from the wear surface for determining the thickness of the brake lining. The pair of temperature sensors may be embedded directly in the brake lining or encapsulated in one of a plurality of housing embodiments packaged in the brake lining. In a preferred embodiment, a unique brake lining temperature sensor assembly is attached to the brake shoe assembly. The unique temperature sensor assembly includes a body of material having a proximate end positioned adjacent to the backing plate and a distal end for contacting the vehicle concurrently with the wear surface of the brake lining. A heat pipe, disposed within the body of material, extends from the distal end toward the proximate end.

Abstract: A system for setting vehicle operator preferences is provided. The system includes a vehicle control module for controlling a vehicle component such as an HVAC unit. A data link is connected to the vehicle control module and may be an infrared signal receiver, a radio frequency signal receiver, a vehicle communications bus, or any other suitable data link. A portable handheld computing device includes a program having vehicle preferences stored in a memory. Preferably, the vehicle preferences may be input by the operator into the portable handheld computing device. The portable handheld computing device may be a Handspring® device, a Palmpilot® device, or any other suitable portable computing device. The portable handheld computing device sends the vehicle preferences to the vehicle control module through the data link to control the vehicle component. The vehicle preferences are sent by IR, RF, or any other suitable means. The system may be used to control an HVA system, for example.

Abstract: A distributed propulsion system is provided for a multi-unit articulated road train. The distributed propulsion system includes a tractor having a first propulsion system for propelling the tractor. A trailer is secured to the tractor at an articulated joint, such as a fifth wheel or draw bar connection. The tractor has a second propulsion system for substantially propelling the trailer. A load sensor for detecting a load between the tractor and the trailer, preferably the tensile load, is associated with the articulated joint. The load sensor produces a load signal. An input device produces a request signal for actuating the second propulsion system. An electronic control mechanism is electrically connected to the input device and the load sensor for coordinating the various sensors and inputs. The control mechanism commands the second propulsion system in response to the load signal and the request signal such that the trailer is propelled in a controlled manner relative to the tractor.

Abstract: A vehicle brake assembly includes a sensor that detects the amount of movement of certain components within the brake assembly. In the preferred embodiment, a rotary sensor is coupled directly with the generally S-shaped cam member and provides signals that indicate the total amount of rotary movement of the cam member during braking applications. These signals provide information indicative of the amount of slack or stroke during braking applications and provide indications of the conditions of brake linings associated with the brake shoes within the brake assembly.