Abstract: An automatic engine start/stop system and method which are compatible with recent engine requirements of a pre-lube period before engine crank, is disclosed. A temp-start controller is used to read inputs such as ambient temperature, oil temperature and engine RPMs, to determine proper conditions for engine cranking. A pre-lube pump is activated by the controller for up to 45 seconds, or a desired period of time, before engine crank. A glow plug pre-heating step may be performed as well, if necessary.

Abstract: A system and method for executing an automatic engine shutdown in an idling vehicle is described. The method includes determining an engine running condition for a vehicle, confirming the vehicle speed is zero for the entirety of a first length of time, confirming the vehicle driver seat is unoccupied for the entirety of the same first length of time, setting an engine shutdown time, beginning a countdown to the engine shutdown time, and then shutting down the vehicle engine, including battery-powered accessories, when the countdown reaches the shutdown time. The system includes a processor having a plurality of signal inputs ports, an engine idle sensor, a speed sensor, a driver seat sensor, a timing mechanism, and a controller configured to shutdown the engine and battery-operated accessories when the timing mechanism completes a countdown of a shutdown time.

Abstract: A regeneration module is usable in conjunction with a diesel engine to control the operation of a regeneration cycle of the diesel engine. During the regeneration cycle, particulate matter collected in or on a diesel particulate filter of the diesel engine is removed to improve the operation of the diesel particulate filter. In various embodiments, the regeneration module only functions when manually activated by a user of the diesel engine such that the regeneration cycle is only initiated during desirable idle periods of the diesel engine.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for reducing pollutants in engine exhaust through the use of pulsed engine compression braking. The apparatus includes a controller, a number of engine sensors connected to the controller, and connections from the controller to the exhaust valves. Bases on data from the engine sensors, the invention opens the exhaust valves during either the compression stroke, the exhaust stroke, or both. Hot fuel mixture or hot gases are then injected into the exhaust manifold, where they burn pollutants. Optionally, pressurized air can be injected into the exhaust manifold to assist in burning pollutants.

Abstract: Apparatus for optimizing operation of an engine-driven vehicle.

Abstract: An apparatus to provide protection for electronic devices which receive power for their operation at least in part from a vehicle's electrical system and battery. The electronic device protecting apparatus has an electrical system voltage sensor, an engine start sensor, and an electronic device decoupler interconnected such that the electronic devices are decoupled from the electrical system and battery when the battery voltage drops below a predetermined level and when the engine is being started. The preferred apparatus allows the operator to select between a warning that system voltage is low and an automatic restart of the vehicle's engine and charging system. The apparatus further includes a bypass function to accommodate electronic devices which draw temporarily high current.

Abstract: An electronic device protecting apparatus and associated methods of manufacturing provide protection for electronic devices which receive power for their operation at least in part from a storage battery. In a preferred embodiment, an electronic device protecting apparatus has a battery voltage sensor, an engine start sensor, and an electronic device decoupler. The electronic devices are decoupled from the battery when the battery voltage drops below a predetermined level, and when the engine is being started.