Abstract: A system (30) and method for removing heat from a confined space such as from engine compartment or service brake of a motor vehicle where heat is generated by operation of a heat engine (12) that propels the vehicle or application of a friction brake. The system and method do not use engine or electrical power because natural aspiration is used to remove heated air and Curie Temperature of a ferromagnetic material is used to selectively allow and disallow natural aspiration.

Abstract: A crossing arm for a vehicle having a longitudinal axis includes a plurality of hollow telescoping members. The telescoping members are mounted onto the vehicle and configured for extension parallel to the longitudinal axis. The members define a variable volume chamber, where the chamber has a minimum volume when the members are nested, and the chamber has a maximum volume when the members are extended. An actuator is in fluid communication with the plurality of telescoping members and is configured for delivering fluid to the chamber to move at least one telescoping member with respect to a second telescoping member to extend the crossing arm.

Abstract: A combustion engine comprising an exhaust system containing a particulate filter (10, 52) for trapping particulate matter in engine exhaust passing through the exhaust system. A particulate trapping medium (18) inside a casing is selectively operable to a relatively lesser porosity for trapping particulate matter in the exhaust and to a relatively greater porosity for facilitating removal of trapped particulate matter during cleaning.

Abstract: An exhaust system for a motor vehicle engine includes mixing vent flaps in the exhaust pipe which open responsive to exhaust temperature. The vent flap forms a portion of the exhaust pipe when closed and is pivotally attached along one edge to the exhaust pipe to open inwardly into the exhaust pipe to constrict and accelerate flow in the pipe to allow outside air to be drawn into the exhaust pipe. A magnetic catch latches the vent flap in its closed position and a magnetic release responsive to increased temperature of the exhaust stream releases the vent flap.

Abstract: A system (30) and method for removing heat from a confined space such as from engine compartment or service brake of a motor vehicle where heat is generated by operation of a heat engine (12) that propels the vehicle or application of a friction brake. The system and method do not use engine or electrical power because natural aspiration is used to remove heated air and Curie Temperature of a ferromagnetic material is used to selectively allow and disallow natural aspiration.

Abstract: A heating system for use on an exhaust system of a vehicle having an exhaust gas passageway to emit exhaust gases from an engine to an outlet includes a quasi black body heat collector. The heat collector is located on the exhaust gas passageway for capturing heat from the exhaust gases. The heating system includes an inlet conduit for circulating air from the HVAC system of the vehicle to the heat collector. The air is heated at the heat collector, and an outlet conduit circulates the heated air back to the HVAC system.

Abstract: The invention involves a vehicle with a cab. The environment of the cab may be maintained by a heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) system that will provide cool air to the cab in hot weather and warm air to the cab in colder weather. The HVAC system will have its own specific air heating and cooling components. The HVAC has a supply to the cab for providing the cool or warm air depending on the need. A siphon or alternative point of distribution of the HVAC output may be a HVAC diversion line that leads into the inlet of the turbocharger or supercharger of the vehicle engine to mix with ambient air entering the turbocharger. In an alternative embodiment, a compressed air source may be bled into the turbocharger or supercharger inlet.

Abstract: A combination fuel tank and cab floor for a truck tractor utilizes a deck plate over a multi-reservoir base pan. The pan is configured both to divide the fuel storage area and to provide a frame for supporting seats and bunks to be installed on the floor.

Abstract: Systems and methods for calibrating operation of a fuel-level indicator of a vehicle are disclosed. The systems and methods include means of determining and/or receiving configuration information about the vehicle and integrating appropriate logic for converting raw fuel-level signals produced by a fuel-level sensor into appropriate processed fuel-level signals to be received by the fuel-level indicator.

Abstract: Systems and methods for calibrating operation of a fuel-level indicator of a vehicle are disclosed. The systems and methods include means of determining and/or receiving configuration information about the vehicle and integrating appropriate logic for converting raw fuel-level signals produced by a fuel-level sensor into appropriate processed fuel-level signals to be received by the fuel-level indicator.

Abstract: A pneumatically supported bunk assembly is dynamically leveled using compressed air provided by the vehicle. Level sensors determine deviation from the horizontal. Extension sensors associated with the pneumatic cylinders prevent over or under extension of the pneumatic cylinders.