Abstract: An evaporative emission control system that operates in a running loss mode and an active weathering mode during purge to substantially eliminate running losses during operation of an internal combustion engine. The evaporative emission control system includes a charcoal canister, a canister vent valve, and a purge valve that permits fuel vapors from the canister and engine fuel tank to be purged into the engine's air intake manifold. The running loss mode operates to close the canister vent valve when the gas pressure within the fuel tank increases above a threshold. The vent valve is maintained closed until the fuel tank pressure drops below a lower limit. This prevents running losses by closing the vent when higher pressures are detected that cannot be reduced by purging under the current engine operating conditions. The active weathering mode cycles the canister vent valve open and closed when the volatility of the fuel is determined to be too high for the current ambient temperature.

Abstract: An engine control system comprising: a mass air flow sensor in an air intake path for a vehicle engine and providing a first input signal indicative of mass air flow through the mass air flow sensor; an air pump unit having an inlet coupled between the mass air flow sensor and the vehicle engine and an outlet coupled in a path of exhaust from the vehicle engine, wherein the air pump unit is responsive to a first control command; a mass air flow estimator responsive to a set of measured engine parameters for providing a second input signal indicative of mass air flow into the intake manifold; and a control unit including a first control command generator responsive to the first and second input signals to provide the first control command responsive to a difference between the first and second input signals, wherein the difference between the first and second input signals represents an estimate of the instantaneous secondary air flow.

Abstract: A retractable conduit formed from a sheet of memory-set polyester. To manufacture the memory-set strip, the polyester sheet is wound into a desired coiled position. It is then heated and cooled in a manner to memory-set the sheet in a coiled form. After this process the sheet of polyester will automatically return to the coiled position after it has been uncoiled. In one form, suitable as a splashblock, the distal end of the polyester sheet is wider than the end attachable to a downspout. In another form the polyester sheet is sheathed in an elongated polyethylene tube, to form a retractable hose. In a preferred form, the distal end of the hose is supported on a spool which will roll along the ground as the hose is wound and unwound to further ensure that the hose retracts properly. The tube can also be provided with holes to act as a sprinkler if desired.

Abstract: A flexible, retractable assembly for use as a door, space divider, covering or the like which comprises a sheet such as Mylar polyester film having a permanent memory set to roll up on itself or otherwise retract automatically into a coil, accordion, or other compact configuration. The assembly is adapted to be stored on one side of an opening and then guided across the opening to fully or partially cover the opening. The permanent memory set of the sheet permits it to retract at least partially under its own force to eliminate or minimize the need for separate rewinding apparatus. The sheet may substitute for a variety of standard products including entryway doors, closet, cabinet and shower doors, screen doors and windows, room dividers, machinery guards and covers for various items such as florescent light fixtures. The sheet may be combined with decorative finishes including a tambour composite structure providing aesthetic and functional advantages.