Abstract: Apparatus and methods of information management in conjunction with the operation of a vehicle are disclosed. The information system apparatus and methods in accordance with the instant invention provide a substantially hands-free environment to a vehicle operator with regard to managing information pertaining to the operation of the vehicle. The apparatus and methods in accordance with the instant invention provide means of initiating communications, processing data, storing data, retrieving data, and using data to manage vehicle functions and operations.

Abstract: Windshield wiper apparatus and methods in accordance with various embodiments of the instant invention include forming a new edge on a worn wiper blade. The new edge increases the effectiveness of the wiper blade and thus extends the useful life of the wiper blade. An apparatus in accordance with one embodiment of the instant invention can be employed to form the new edge in accordance with one of various methods including trimming a worn edge from the wiper blade as well as molding a new edge onto the worn wiper blade. In accordance with yet another embodiment of the instant invention, a windshield wiper assembly includes a wiper blade and a heating element supported on the windshield wiper assembly, wherein the heating element is configured to heat the wiper blade so as to keep the wiper blade substantially clear of ice, snow and the like during winter driving conditions.

Abstract: A power controller for a powered device such as a heating/air conditioning unit that monitors and controls the supply of power to an individual heating/air conditioning unit and shuts off power to the powered device when the voltage level of the power supplied to the unit falls outside a predetermined range. The power controller also transmits telephonic alarms and receives touch tone commands over telephone lines. The power controller may be equipped with a device for sensing the presence of a fire.

Abstract: A normally inactive sound signal generator is supported from the rotatable axle of each railway car in a train and actuatable to generate a predetermined signal in response to a hot box condition. Electrically operable signal receivers coupled to electrically operable radio signal transmitters are spaced along the railroad track at predetermined intervals which may be 4,000 to 6,000 feet apart and the receivers and transmitters are operable on low magnitude current, such as provided in the rails of the track for Centralized Train Control Systems.