Abstract: A control system for controlling energization of a plurality of valves in a vehicle hydraulic system. The control system includes a plurality of sensors for measuring various dynamic conditions and operational aspects of the vehicle, a signal processing circuit coupled to the plurality of sensors for determining a desired energization of the plurality of valves dependent upon measurements by at least a portion of the plurality of sensors, and a driver circuit coupled to the signal processing circuit for generating, responsive to the desired energization of the plurality of valves as determined by the signal processing circuit, a control signal to energize the plurality of valves to the desired energization. The control system receives inputs from the plurality of vehicle sensors. These inputs are processed, and the processed inputs and signals derived from the inputs are forwarded to the driver circuit for use in generating a control signal for operating the vehicle valve system.

Abstract: A method of main reformer startup is disclosed. The method comprises introducing a first supply of fuel and a first supply of air into a micro-reformer. The first supply of fuel is increased to produce a heated reformate in the micro-reformer. The heated reformate is directed through a main reformer in order to heat the main reformer. At least a portion of the heated reformate is burned in the main reformer. A second supply of fuel and a second supply of air is introduced into the main reformer to produce a main supply of reformate. A method for maintaining a vehicle device in standby condition is also disclosed.

Abstract: A method of main reformer startup is disclosed. The method comprises introducing a first supply of fuel and a first supply of air into a micro-reformer. The first supply of fuel is increased to produce a heated reformate in the micro-reformer. The heated reformate is directed through a main reformer in order to heat the main reformer. At least a portion of the heated reformate is burned in the main reformer. A second supply of fuel and a second supply of air is introduced into the main reformer to produce a main supply of reformate. A method for maintaining a vehicle device in standby condition is also disclosed.

Abstract: A method of operating a fuel cell includes the step of selectively connecting and disconnecting the fuel cell to at least one electrical load dependent at least in part upon at least one of a fuel cell voltage, a fuel cell current and a fuel cell temperature.

Abstract: A fuel cell system in accordance with the invention includes a single, central electronic controller (CPU) for controlling at least the Air Handling sub-system, the Reformer sub-system, the Power Electronics sub-system, and the Customer Interface sub-system. The central controller provides a central location for easier serviceability; increases data transport efficiency by eliminating lengthy links between distributed controllers; eliminates the need for multiple mechanical enclosures; allows for controller thermo conditioning in one mechanical enclosure; and reduces parasitic power losses by employing a single power supply.

Abstract: A power system used for transferring power between a plurality of power sources is provided. A power system according to the present invention is comprised of a plurality of power sources, wherein each source includes a pair of terminals. The power system is further comprised of a power converter, including a pair of switches for each one of the plurality of power sources. Each of these switches are connected to the respective pairs of terminals for each source. Each switch further includes an associated diode, and each switch pair includes a common node. The power converter further includes a plurality of inductors numbering one less than the number of power sources, wherein each inductor is connected across two of the common nodes. The power converter further includes a control unit configured to actuate the switches in accordance with, and to carry out, one of a plurality of modes of operation.

Abstract: A solid-oxide fuel cell system having a relatively large primary fuel cell sub-assembly for steady-state operation and a relatively small secondary fuel cell sub-assembly which is rapidly heatable to a threshold operating temperature to a) produce usable power in a short time period, b) cascade a hot exhaust into the primary fuel cell sub-assembly to assist in preheating thereof, and c) provide steam into the primary fuel cell sub-assembly to prevent coking of the anodes thereof. As the primary sub-assembly reaches its threshold temperature, it too begins to generate electricity and continues to self-heat and to be heated by the secondary sub-assembly. Preferably, the secondary sub-assembly continues to provide electricity in complement with the primary sub-assembly until the primary sub-assembly reaches full power, at which time the secondary sub-assembly may be shut down or switched to standby status for fuel efficiency, as desired.

Abstract: A fuel cell system is disclosed. A fuel cell stack is in fluid communication with a reformer. An air conditioning system is in fluid communication with the reformer. Methods of making and using a fuel cell system are also disclosed.

Abstract: A fuel cell system is disclosed. A fuel cell stack is in fluid communication with a reformer. An air conditioning system is in fluid communication with the reformer. Methods of making and using a fuel cell system are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method of main reformer startup is disclosed. The method comprises introducing a first supply of fuel and a first supply of air into a micro-reformer. The first supply of fuel is increased to produce a heated reformate in the micro-reformer. The heated reformate is directed through a main reformer in order to heat the main reformer. At least a portion of the heated reformate is burned in the main reformer. A second supply of fuel and a second supply of air is introduced into the main reformer to produce a main supply of reformate. A method for maintaining a vehicle device in standby condition is also disclosed.