Abstract: A charging system and method for charging a battery of a vehicle is disclosed. The charging system includes a movable member, such as a wind-driven element. The charging system also includes means for exposing the wind-driven element during vehicle deceleration and for covering the wind-driven element during vehicle acceleration and coasting. The charging system further includes electrical power generating means operably associated with the wind-driven element and the battery such that the electrical power generating means provides electrical power for recharging the battery when the electrical power generating means receives mechanical power from the wind-driven element. Alternative embodiments can include a drop-wheel as a movable member.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a damage mitigation system. In some embodiments, for example, the damage mitigation system can be used for protecting a vehicle from hail damage. The damage mitigation system includes a housing for storing at least one pad. The pad can be pulled from the housing, inflated, and positioned over an object to be protected. In some embodiments, the damage mitigation system can include a self-inflating pad. In some embodiments, the damage mitigation system can include an inflatable pad that is not self-inflating. The damage mitigation system also includes a motor for retracting the pad back into the housing. The housing includes pinching rods for squeezing the air from the pad as the pad is retracted so that the pad can be stored in a non-inflated configuration.

Abstract: According to an embodiment of the present invention, an inflatable apparatus is provided for covering and protecting a vehicle from harmful debris such as hail. The inflatable apparatus includes a plurality of airway chambers that are substantially longitudinal and that cover the top and side portions of the vehicle. The inflatable apparatus may also include a security flap that is sized to fit through an outlet of the vehicle for locking or securing the inflatable apparatus with or to the vehicle. The inflatable apparatus may also include a transparent portion to allow the vehicle to be driven while secured to the vehicle. The inflatable apparatus may also include a panel with a slit opening that is operable for allowing entry into the vehicle while the inflatable apparatus is secured to the vehicle.

Abstract: According to an embodiment of the present invention, an inflatable apparatus is provided for covering and protecting a vehicle from harmful debris such as hail. The inflatable apparatus includes a plurality of airway chambers that are substantially longitudinal and that cover the top and side portions of the vehicle. The inflatable apparatus may also include a security flap that is sized to fit through an outlet of the vehicle for locking or securing the inflatable apparatus with or to the vehicle. The inflatable apparatus may also include a transparent portion to allow the vehicle to be driven while secured to the vehicle. The inflatable apparatus may also include a panel with a slit opening that is operable for allowing entry into the vehicle while the inflatable apparatus is secured to the vehicle.