Abstract: A system and method for diagnosing a potential electrical operating discrepancy in a polyphase electric motor by generating two independent torque estimates using a plurality of current sensors and, optionally, a shaft position sensor. Differences between the independent torque estimates are used to indicate potential discrepancies in electrical operating characteristics of the motor.

Abstract: A prognostic method and system for testing and controlling various hybrid, fuel cell, and electric vehicle components. The tests generate test data for determining a state of the tested components. An operating strategy of the vehicle is controlled based on the state of its tested components.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for braking and stopping a vehicle whose powertrain includes an electric drive. The electric drive is used to generate braking torque which is used to decelerate the vehicle down to a full stop. The braking torque is achieved using any of several closed loop speed control systems. The system can be used as a substitute for or as a supplement to conventional friction bakes.

Abstract: A flush and fill process is used to ready a fuel cell cooling circuit for initial use. An external flushing system relasably connected to the cooling circuit circulates flushing coolant through the cooling circuit to remove contaminants from the wetted surfaces of the cooling circuit before the fuel cell is put into use. The flushing system includes a pump for circulating the flushing coolant through the cooling circuit, filters for removing contaminants from the coolant and a heater for elevating the temperature of the coolant. Following the flushing process to remove contaminants, the flushing system is disconnected from the cooling circuit and the cooling circuit is filled with fresh coolant.

Abstract: A system and method for diagnosing a potential electrical operating discrepancy in a polyphase electric motor by generating two independent torque estimates using a plurality of current sensors and, optionally, a shaft position sensor. Differences between the independent torque estimates are used to indicate potential discrepancies in electrical operating characteristics of the motor.

Abstract: The present invention can diagnose a potential discrepancy in electrical operating characteristics of an electric motor by generating two independent torque estimates using a plurality of current sensors and optionally a shaft position sensor. The invention provides a strategy to generate two independent torque estimates of a three phase electric motor comprising first and second systems to determine current in each motor phase, first and second systems to generate a first and second estimate of motor shaft position, and first and second systems to generate first and second estimates of motor torque using the first and second systems to determine current in each motor phase and the first and second estimates of motor shaft position. The present invention detects also an electrical operating characteristic discrepancy in an electric motor-propelled vehicle's electrical components and subsystems, including single subsystem discrepancies between the two independent torque estimates.

Abstract: The present invention provides an actuator assembly for operating a cylinder valve of an internal combustion engine. The actuator assembly achieves fast response times by utilizing a solenoid actuator that contains an armature element formed of a powder metal. A valve system that utilizes two of the actuator assemblies in conjunction with a cylinder valve is also provided.

Abstract: The present invention provides an actuator assembly for operating a cylinder valve of an internal combustion engine. The actuator assembly achieves fast response times by utilizing a solenoid actuator that contains an armature element formed of a powder metal. A valve system that utilizes two of the actuator assemblies in conjunction with a cylinder valve is also provided.