Abstract: A sensor arrangement includes, in some embodiments, a magnetostrictive element configured to output magnetic signals in response to a magnetic field. A sensor is configured to sense a value of a property of a selected object, and to provide an electrical resistance that varies in response to variations in the sensed value. The sensor cooperates with the magnetostrictive element to vary the frequency of the signals output by the magnetostrictive element based on variations of the electrical resistance provided by the sensor. A transmitter provides an alternating magnetic field to the magnetostrictive element, and a receiver picks up the magnetic signals generated by the magnetostrictive element. The frequency of the signals received is correlated with the sensor resistance, and the resistance is correlated to a value of the property sensed.

Abstract: An off-board battery cycler is used to condition an on-board battery system used in electric or hybrid electric vehicles. The battery cycler periodically discharges the vehicle's high voltage traction battery to eliminate battery “memory” that can prevent the battery from being fully charged. The cycler also recharges both the high voltage battery and an on-board low voltage battery used to power the vehicle's electrical system. High voltage AC power used in recharging the high voltage battery is switched using contactors physically isolated within the battery cycler, in order to protect operating personnel from coming onto contact with high voltage.

Abstract: A power supply system includes a number of battery cells connected in rows in an end-to-end fashion to form a battery module. A number of these battery modules are placed into a housing to form a battery brick, which is a basic building block that can be used to create a larger battery assembly. The power supply system may include locators to position individual battery cells within a row, to help ensure proper alignment of battery terminals extending outside the battery housing. Terminal connectors can be used to reduce the magnitude of the voltage seen across exposed terminals. The terminal connectors connect two of the battery terminals, while covering, and inhibiting access to, adjacent battery terminals. The power supply system may also include sensor stations to facilitate use of temperature sensors such that uniformity of airflow around the battery cells is maintained regardless of how many temperature sensors are used.

Abstract: A sensor arrangement includes, in some embodiments, a magnetostrictive element configured to output magnetic signals in response to a magnetic field. A sensor is configured to sense a value of a property of a selected object, and to provide an electrical resistance that varies in response to variations in the sensed value. The sensor cooperates with the magnetostrictive element to vary the frequency of the signals output by the magnetostrictive element based on variations of the electrical resistance provided by the sensor. A transmitter provides an alternating magnetic field to the magnetostrictive element, and a receiver picks up the magnetic signals generated by the magnetostrictive element. The frequency of the signals received is correlated with the sensor resistance, and the resistance is correlated to a value of the property sensed.

Abstract: An off-board battery cycler is used to condition an on-board battery system used in electric or hybrid electric vehicles. The battery cycler periodically discharges the vehicle's high voltage traction battery to eliminate battery “memory” that can prevent the battery from being fully charged. The cycler also recharges both the high voltage battery and an on-board low voltage battery used to power the vehicle's electrical system. High voltage AC power used in recharging the high voltage battery is switched using contactors physically isolated within the battery cycler, in order to protect operating personnel from coming onto contact with high voltage.