Abstract: A power steering control unit for use with an electric motor assisted vehicle power steering system. The control unit includes two microprocessor controllers that monitor vehicle speed and a torque applied through a vehicle steering column in calculating a duty cycle for the assist motor. The response to the speeed and torque inputs can be adjusted by setting a group of four control switches on the vehicle dashboard. Each microprocessor not only calculates an optimum motor energization but also monitors motor performance. In the event this performance deviates from an expected range the assist is removed and in some cases corrective steps taken to correct the unit's performance. An electrically erasable read only memory coupled to the microprocessors stores constants needed in calculating an energization sequence. The EEROM also stores indicators of the control unit performance to aid in diagnosing difficulties.

Abstract: A speech synthesizer circuit for use in an automobile. The circuit includes a dedicated microprocessor and a speech synthesizer integrated circuit which has an output couplable to the speakers of the automobile's radio. The microprocessor monitors various automobile status condition and, based upon these conditions, causes various preprogrammed voice messages to be transmitted to the motorist. The circuit includes various novel features. These features includes novel circuit energization, conditions sensing, failure detection, and voice activation mechanisms.

Abstract: A speech synthesizer circuit for use in an automobile. The circuit includes a dedicated microprocessor and a speech synthesizer integrated circuit which has an output couplable to the speakers of the automobile's radio. The microprocessor monitors various automobile status conditions and, based upon these conditions, causes various preprogrammed voice messages to be transmitted to the motorist. The circuit includes various novel speech synthesizer features. These features includes novel circuit energization, condition sensing, failure detection, and voice activation mechanisms.

Abstract: A power steering control unit for use with an electric motor assisted vehicle power steering system. The control unit includes two microprocessor controllers that monitor vehicle speed and a torque applied through a vehicle steering column in calculating a duty cycle for the assist motor. The response to the speed and torque inputs can be adjusted by setting a group of four control switches on the vehicle dashboard. Each microprocessor not only calculates an optimum motor energization but also monitors motor performance. In the event this performance deviates from an expected range the assist is removed and in some cases corrective steps taken to correct the unit's performance. An electrically erasable read only memory coupled to the microprocessors stores constants needed in calculating an energization sequence. The EEROM also stores indicators of the control unit performance to aid in diagnosing difficulties.