Abstract: A management system and method for facilitating the management of data and events. The system includes a server, a processor, and a feed in communication with the server. The feed provides real-time information relating to a predetermined group of people and/or facilities. The processor is operable to process the information delivered by the feed and update a first database. The system also includes a computer processing unit (CPU), an interface and a document associating circuit. The CPU processes the server and the second database so as to provide information onto a display. The document associating circuit is operable to process the first and second databases so as to associate documents stored in the first and second databases with each event displayed on the calendar and deliver the associated document with a selected event.

Abstract: A management system and method for facilitating the management of data and events. The system includes a server, a processor, and a feed in communication with the server. The feed provides real-time information relating to a predetermined group of people and/or facilities. The processor is operable to process the information delivered by the feed and update a first database. The system also includes a computer processing unit (CPU), an interface and a document associating circuit. The CPU processes the server and the second database so as to provide information onto a display. The document associating circuit is operable to process the first and second databases so as to associate documents stored in the first and second databases with each event displayed on the calendar and deliver the associated document with a selected event.

Abstract: A system or method for managing devices (collectively “device management system”) is disclosed. The device management system uses a matrix, table or other data structure technique (collectively “data structure”) to configure the input parameter(s) for one or more devices. The data structure can be modified in a dynamic or static fashion to accommodate different device configurations and different device interactions. Use of the data structure can eliminate the need for multi-level “nested if” statements that are complex, deep, and difficult to modify without causing an unforeseen error. The data structure can encapsulate the hardware specific characteristics of the various devices so that the application software written for the various devices can be written independent of the hardware-specific characteristics of the devices. Thus, the data structure can act as an interface between hardware-specific characteristics relating to the various devices and various user interactions and other related factors.

Abstract: A system and method for providing power redundancy to certain devices of a vehicle that are typically controlled by means of a power distribution and control node. Power is delivered to the node by both a primary power feed as well as a secondary power feed. Provided in each node is a first set of power relays for selectively providing power to at least one device of a first class, as well as a second set of power relays for selectively providing power to at least one device of a second class. Under a normal operating state of the node, the one or more first class devices, as well as the one or more second class devices, selectively receive power from the primary power feed. Upon the occurrence of a disruption in the primary power feed, the one or more second class devices will continue to operate by being selectively powered through the second set of power relays by the second power feed.

Abstract: In a smart or intelligent electrical connector assembly, a printed circuit board (PCB) mounted in a first connector has circuit traces that extend from various locations on the PCB to a single, particular area between edges of the PCB. Components such as switches and microcontrollers for controlling the connector assembly circuits are electrically connected to the traces at the various locations. A terminal block is mounted at the single, particular area. The terminal block has terminals with ends electrically connected with the traces. The other ends of the terminals extend outward from surfaces of the block towards the edges of the PCB. Wire harness terminals within the first connector and within a second, mating connector of the assembly electrically connect with the terminal block terminals.

Abstract: A smart connector for automotive accessories comprising injection molded plastic first and second components, the first component being adapted to receive a printed circuit board with edge contacts therein. Multiple position assurance features are provided so that the PCB can only be fully inserted in the proper orientation and can only be latched in place if fully inserted. Spring terminals are crimped to the wires leading to and from the connector assembly and contactingly engage the edge contacts on the surfaces of the PCB adjacent the leading and trailing edges thereof. The first and second connector components are releasably latched together by means of an exterior detent and spring arm combination.

Abstract: A circuitboard assembly in which power carrying circuitboard traces between MOSFETs or the like and edge terminals are replaced with metal leadframe structures which also serve to perform a heat dissipation function. Each of the leadframes comprises a first planar portion which is bonded by a thermally conductive epoxy to the top surface of a MOSFET and a second elevated planar portion which extends parallel to but above the circuitboard surface into contact with an edge-mounted terminal header. The leadframes may be provided with support legs as well as additional heat dissipating fins.

Abstract: A circuit and method are disclosed for detecting an imminent arc prior to the ignition of the arc in a system having a DC power supply that provides power to a load through a conductor. The inventive circuit includes a current-change detector that detects a sudden drop in current through the conductor that is indicative of an imminent arc. Upon detection of a sudden drop in current through the conductor, a multivibrator generates a pulsed signal, wherein the width of the pulse is indicative of a determined period of time for which the power supply should be disconnected to prevent ignition of an arc. The pulsed signal controls a transistor, which selectively disconnects the power supply from the load for a determined period of time in response to the pulsed signal.

Abstract: A serviceable fused battery terminal comprising a disposable fused battery end containing a fuse link, the disposable fused battery end being initially integrated with a cable-connecting portion of the terminal which is secured to an electrical cable, for example by crimping in known manner. When the fuse blows, the battery end is removed from the cable-connecting end by breaking or separating it, while the cable-connecting end remains secured to the cable in its original fashion. A portion of the cable-connecting end is formed as a reattachment point for a replacement fused battery end 22, which is then secured to the remaining original cable-connecting end to create a new fused terminal. The inventive terminal allows for the easy replacement of blown fuses in the field without having to cut or otherwise remove the cable-connecting portion of the terminal from the cable.

Abstract: An electrical control circuit for an automotive lamp module having an integrated ON/OFF switch to activate and deactivate the driver circuit associated with the lamp such that the driver circuit is only turned on when either the primary ON/OFF switch or a remote, door-ajar switch is closed. A microprocessor is used to respond to low-level current conditions indicative of a closed switch. A timer turns the driver OFF after a predetermined duration of continuous operation.

Abstract: An adjustable power point for use in a vehicle, movable from at least one home position to other locations in the vehicle that are suited for connecting various electrical devices. In one form, the power point is connected to a retractable power cord, and is normally retained in a home socket, for example in the dashboard near the driver console. In another form, the power point is slide-mounted in a track structure formed in a portion of the vehicle, for example the instrument panel, capable of being longitudinally adjusted between various home positions along the length of the track.