Abstract: Provided herein are composite materials for use in an electrical energy storage system (e.g., high-capacity batteries) and methods for preparing the same. The composite materials of the present disclosure comprise a three-dimensional carbon network and optional silicon particles. The composite materials further comprise macropores, at least some of which are formed by carbonizing sacrificial particles dispersed throughout a three-dimensional network. The macropores advantageously provide a space to accommodate the strain and stress in the electrode structure due to volume changes of silicon (particles) during charging and discharging of the electrical energy storage systems.

Abstract: Systems and methods are directed to a pull-through winding method, and a manufacturing fixture, or mandrel, that guides the layup of material in the pull-through winding method, for fabrication of a three-dimensional load bearing structure. These systems and methods allow fibers of material of the 3D load bearing structure to be pulled as straight as possible during winding, and maintained as straight as possible during curing, to take full advantage of properties associated with the fiber or filament-based materials used in these structures, including, for example, carbon fiber material. The manufacturing fixture includes a plurality of pull-through slots at end portions thereof, that provide for the pulling of the fiber-based material, and the application and maintenance of tension in the material that maintains the alignment of the fibers as the material is wound, cured and hardened.

Abstract: A regenerative braking system for a vehicle utilizing diversion of energy for efficient use or maintaining consistent vehicle performance. The regenerative braking system includes a generator for producing regenerative energy during slowing and includes switches connected to a battery and a plurality of devices. A processor is connected with the battery and the switches for controlling the configuration of the switches based on a characteristic of the battery. If the battery has a state of charge exceeding a predetermined threshold, the processor controls the switches to route the regenerative energy to the other devices. The processor also controls the switches to provide regenerative energy to specific devices where it may most desirably be utilized. Heating and cooling units of the vehicle may be alternatively or simultaneously connected to receive the regenerative energy for providing consistent vehicle slowing performance when the battery state of charge exceeds the predetermined threshold.

Abstract: A regenerative braking system for a vehicle utilizing diversion of energy for efficient use or maintaining consistent vehicle performance. The regenerative braking system includes a generator for producing regenerative energy during slowing and includes switches connected to a battery and a plurality of devices. A processor is connected with the battery and the switches for controlling the configuration of the switches based on a characteristic of the battery. If the battery has a state of charge exceeding a predetermined threshold, the processor controls the switches to route the regenerative energy to the other devices. The processor also controls the switches to provide regenerative energy to specific devices where it may most desirably be utilized. Heating and cooling units of the vehicle may be alternatively or simultaneously connected to receive the regenerative energy for providing consistent vehicle slowing performance when the battery state of charge exceeds the predetermined threshold.

Abstract: Information associated with messages and/or missed calls is provided to a subscriber. Calls received but not answered by the subscriber may be monitored. Each monitored call is classified as one of a missed call and a message. The monitored calls may be summarized based on a customizable rule set to create a summary. The summary is provided to the subscriber via, for example, a voice notification.

Abstract: A draft beer tower cooling system having an adapter collar that is removably attached to the top end of a draft beer tower. The adapter collar has a centrally located bore hole that extends from its top surface to its bottom surface and a thermoelectric cooler module is mounted therein. The bottom surface of the thermoelectric cooler module is in contact with a cold plate having a plurality of metal cables dangling from its bottom surface. A heat sink is positioned in contact with the top surface of the thermoelectric cooler module and an exhaust fan unit is mounted to the top of the heat sink. The thermoelectric cooler module functions to transfer heat from the interior of the draft beer tower to the heat sink where the exhaust fan unit dissipates the heat into the surrounding atmosphere.

Abstract: A power driven driveway scrubbing apparatus formed from the following major components: an outer base housing, an inner base housing, and a push handle assembly. A pair of laterally spaced front wheels are mounted on a front axle that passes through said inner base housing. The rear wheels are mounted on separate rear axles that merely extend laterally from the outer base housing. The inner base housing has a top wall, front wall, rear wall, and laterally space side walls. Its side walls have apertures adjacent the front end of the respective side walls through which the front axle passes thereby allowing the inner base housing to be pivoted about the front axle. A cylindrical brush member extends laterally within the inner base housing and it is mounted on a shaft having its opposite ends connected to the respective side walls of the inner base housing.