Abstract: Methods for tracking a container with a tracking device are provided.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for recording video of a driver in a vehicle and a surrounding visual field of the driver. The system includes a detachable body coupled to a windshield of a vehicle. The system further includes three or more cameras coupled to the detachable body. The three or more cameras are configured to capture surrounding views from the detachable body. One of the three or more cameras faces a driver seat of the vehicle in response to the detachable body being coupled to the windshield of the vehicle. The video may be processed by the system, the cloud, or a combination of them.

Abstract: An ultraviolet (“UV”) emission device may emit energy towards a movable surface of a conveyor system. A housing of the UV emission device may attach to a frame of the conveyor system. A lateral edge of the housing may extend across the moveable surface. The housing and a portion of the moveable surface may be inclined with respect to the frame. A barrier bracket of the UV emission device may support an absorptive barrier along the lateral edge, the absorptive barrier configured to contact the moveable surface. In a first position of the barrier bracket, the absorptive barrier contacts the moveable surface and the barrier bracket activates an interlock switch. In a second position of the barrier bracket, the barrier bracket deactivates the interlock switch. Responsive to deactivation of the interlock switch, a controller may provide a control signal to decrease power to the UV energy emission element.

Abstract: A control system of a self-driving tractor can access sensor data to determine a set of trailer configuration parameters of a cargo trailer coupled to the self-driving tractor. Based on the set of trailer configuration parameters, the control system can configure a motion planning model for autonomously controlling the acceleration, braking, and steering systems of the tractor.

Abstract: A method for tracking a parcel with a tracking device is provided.

Abstract: A load weight and balance system has first sensors for providing a first output signal proportional to an available internal volume of an associated passenger luggage storage bin. Second sensors provide a second output signal proportional a weight of any luggage in the associated passenger luggage storage bin. Display devices provide a visual indication whether or not each passenger luggage storage bin is filled to capacity. A main display provides a visual indication of the storage status of all of the passenger luggage storage bins. A processor receives the signals from the first sensors and the second sensors, calculates whether or not each of the passenger luggage storage bins is filled to capacity and whether or not each of the passenger luggage storage bins is within a predetermined weight value, and determines whether or not the weight distribution of the passenger luggage storage bins in the aircraft is balanced.

Abstract: A method for controlling the transmission of a working machine, by which, with at least one sensor of the working machine, at least one specific parameter is determined and transmitted to a control unit for controlling the transmission. The working machine has a lifting mechanism and the at least one specific parameter which characterizes an actuation condition of the lifting mechanism. A predetermined shifting strategy is adapted, by the method, as a function of the at least one specific parameter.

Abstract: Methods, devices, and systems for the secure transport of material are provided. A transported material may be a biological material, such as a biological sample. Material is only transferred to a courier having a unique, single-use authorization code. Authorization codes are provided to a courier only upon arrival at a proper location and at a designated time. Courier identification or code confirmation or authorization may also be required. Identification or other confirmation regarding a custodian, material to be transferred, or both, may be required. Courier images, custodian images, or both, may be required. An authorization code may include a bar code, a number, a letter, or other symbol or code. An authorization code, an image, route information, and other information may be communicated by cell-phone, WiFi, Bluetooth, or other link. Transport containers with temperature sensors and communication links, and storage containers with light sensors, memory, and communication links are provided.

Abstract: A mobile platform for materials transport is provided. The platform includes a pair of suspension devices that in turn include a pair of rocker beams which can be rotated between two positions: a first position where central wheels attached thereto can be used to drive the platform; and a second position where the central wheels are retracted and the platform can be rolled on end wheels without the friction of the central wheels, and an associated drive system, impeding movement of the platform. Furthermore, data from sensors and/or load cells can be used to control movement of the platform; specifically shifts in load distribution and/or sensed forces at the suspension devices can indicate that a load (and/or materials) has shifted and/or is shifting and movement of the platform is adjusted accordingly, for example to prevent the platform and/or the load (and/or materials) from tipping.

Abstract: Methods, apparatus, and systems are described for dynamically transforming dimensional data representing a shipping item being loaded within a container using a scanning sensor node mounted above a space within the container. Generally, the scanning sensor node has a memory, a depth sensor oriented to scan the space from above, and a communications interface to an external managing node. For example, the method uses the scanning sensor node to access the onboard memory for available material dimension data related to the shipping item. The method uses the depth sensor to generate scan data on the shipping item once the shipping item is placed within the container, compare the generated scan data to the available material dimension data, and dynamically transform the available material dimension data into the current dimensional data representing the shipping item based upon the comparison of the generated scan data to the available material dimension data.

Abstract: A location marker that may be used to provide information to a vehicle, such as an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). The location marker may include a plurality of retroreflectors that may form a pattern readable by a vehicle or other device. The pattern may be read to extract an identifier of a location, such as an address or an identifier of a person. A global positioning system (GPS) device may transmit a general location of the location marker to the vehicle, while the location marker may provide a unique visual location identifier to a device within visual range of the location marker. In some embodiments, the location marker may also include lights that may be individually sequenced on and off at different times to create a time domain signal sequence that is readable by the vehicle.

Abstract: A mobile platform for materials transport is provided. The platform includes a pair of suspension devices that in turn include a pair of rocker beams which can be rotated between two positions: a first position where central wheels attached thereto can be used to drive the platform; and a second position where the central wheels are retracted and the platform can be rolled on end wheels without the friction of the central wheels, and an associated drive system, impeding movement of the platform. Furthermore, data from sensors and/or load cells can be used to control movement of the platform; specifically, shifts in load distribution and/or sensed forces at the suspension devices can indicate that a load (and/or materials) has shifted and/or is shifting and movement of the platform is adjusted accordingly, for example to prevent the platform and/or the load (and/or materials) from tipping.

Abstract: An arrangement for determining a plugging position of a hose coupling on a connection field includes the connection field including a plurality of coupling sockets and a plurality of hose couplings in which each of the plurality of hose couplings is coupled to a corresponding one of the plurality of coupling sockets. The at least one hose coupling includes a receiving coil and each of the plurality of coupling sockets includes a transmitting coil. A data interface is disposed in communication with the receiving coil, and an evaluation unit is disposed in communication with the data interface. The receiving coil is configured to analyze an individual identifier retrievable at the transmitting coil during connection of the at least one hose coupling to one of the coupling sockets, and the identifier is transmitted via the data interface to the evaluation unit to determine the plugging position of the hose coupling.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a method of determining whether a frame of a work machine is approaching a tip over point. First and second loads upon respective first and second support arrangements of the frame are detected using respective first and second sensing means. Signals are generated indicative of the first and second loads and communicated to a controller. The controller is configured to generate an alert based upon the first and second loads when the first and/or second load signals indicate that the orientation of the work machine is approaching a tip over point.

Abstract: Mesh node modules are associated with pieces of luggage, or packages, etc. and companion luggage or packages can dynamically form a mesh network which uploads location information of the nodes and in some cases additional information, e.g., shock signals, to a network. The information may be downloaded to an owner's CE device.

Abstract: Motor-generators are incorporated in front wheels and drive the front wheels, respectively. An ECU determines whether or not a steering apparatus including a steering actuator, a tie rod and a steering angle sensor has failed, based on an operation angle of a steering wheel from a steering wheel angle sensor and a steering angle of the front wheels from the steering angle sensor. When the ECU determines that the steering apparatus has failed, the ECU provides torque difference for a torque instruction for the motor-generators in accordance with the operation angle of the steering wheel.

Abstract: A method for detecting a weight of at least one occupant of a motor vehicle includes the steps of detecting a first load which acts on a chassis of the motor vehicle as first weight value at a time point prior to entering of the at least one occupant into the motor vehicle, detecting a second load which acts on the chassis as second weight value at a second time point after entering of the at least one occupant into the motor vehicle; and determining the weight of the at least one occupant by forming a difference between the first and second weight values.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for detecting an intruder inside a vehicle. The apparatus comprises a load sensor coupled to the vehicle, and a processor. The processor is coupled to the load sensor and is configured to monitor the load in the vehicle after the vehicle is vacated and locked and to determine if the load in the vehicle changes by more than a predetermined threshold.

Abstract: A damper is provided which damps an applied external force in accordance with the strength of the external force (impact strength). The damper 10 comprises a vessel 20 having a cylindrical chamber 21 filled with a viscous fluid, a turn member 60 turned by the external force, a slider member 40 which is moved in the chamber 21 of the vessel 20 by turn of the turn member 60, partition member 80 engaged with the slider member 40, a coiled spring 100 for energizing the slider member 40 toward the turn member 60, and a resin cap 100 blocking an opening of the vessel 20.

Abstract: A new type of motorized, four wheeled, utility vehicle that provides for the driver to operate the vehicle from a standing position on a rear platform facilitating step on-step off movements and incorporating an automatic braking mechanism and adjustable weight distribution mechanism for enhanced safety. The vehicle further includes a fully suspended chassis, automatic transmission, forward, reverse and neutral gearing, oversized tires and total payload in excess of 400 pounds making it suitable for a wide variety of work activities and terrain conditions.

Abstract: An output control unit of a vehicle, having a front riding space and a rear riding space, includes a riding detection device for detecting the presence of a passenger in the rear riding space. When the riding detection device detects the passenger, the output control unit regulates the output of the engine as compared with the output when the riding detection device does not detect a passenger in the rear riding space.

Abstract: A seat occupant determining apparatus includes a first load detecting sensor at a right of a seat, a second load detecting sensor at a left of the seat, a third load detecting sensor at a front or a rear of the first and second load detecting sensors, in order to detect a part of the load, respectively, a right-left sum value calculating portion calculating a right-left sum value, a threshold changing portion for changing an occupant determining threshold on the basis of the load value of the third load detecting sensor, and an occupant determining portion determining an occupant of the seat to be an adult when the right-left sum value is equal to or more than the occupant determining threshold and determining an occupant of the seat to be a child in a child seat when the right-left sum value is less than the occupant determining threshold.

Abstract: A technique for determining shifted cargo on a vehicle is described. A method realization of this technique comprises the steps of acquiring data from a positional sensor and determining a change in a balance of loads upon wheels of the vehicle. Shifted cargo is determined if the change in load balance does not correspond to the positional data. Furthermore, a device and system suited for carrying out the method are provided.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for detecting the connection of a trailer to a vehicle. The apparatus is connected to a pneumatic pressure line of the trailer's service braking system, and measures the pressure of the system to determine if the trailer is properly connected to the vehicle when the vehicle's engine is running. Further, the apparatus also contains an algorithm that monitors the signals from other vehicle systems, and uses that information to determine the trailer characteristics. The vehicle engine control system receives information from the apparatus and adjusts the various vehicle systems accordingly.

Abstract: A woven laminate for sound absorption that includes a first woven layer, a second woven layer, and a third woven layer. The first woven layer has a coarse structure. The second woven layer has a fine structure. The third woven layer has a medium structure. Each of the first, second, and third woven layers are composed of metallic wires that are woven to each other or interlaced as a fleece. At least one of the first, the second, and the third woven layers are superimposed in order to form the woven laminate. The woven layers are placed in the layer order fine-coarse-medium. The woven layers are welded together at least partially.

Abstract: In one aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a payload control system for a machine having traction devices. The payload control system may have a force sensor configured to measure a force transmitted through the traction devices. The payload control system may also have a speed sensor configured to measure a speed of the machine. The payload control system may further have a controller in communication with the force sensor and the speed sensor. The controller may be configured to modify a weight limit of the machine based on the measured force and the measured speed.

Abstract: A dump cycle counting system is provided for a work machine. The system may include a payload carrier configured to contain a payload of material and a dump actuator configured to effectuate dumping of the payload out of the payload carrier. The system may also include a controller configured to control actuation of the dump actuator and a dump control device operatively coupled to the controller. The system may further include a load counter configured to record at least one dump cycle based on a command state of at least one of the dump control device and the controller.

Abstract: Brake pedal input is modulated to produce a consistent relationship between the brake pedal input and a deceleration of the vehicle.

Abstract: Smart cargo container system comprising auditable, secure, sealable, stackable, trackable and pollable, universal, “pallet boxes” used: 1) auto-latchingly secured to the under-carriage transverse I-beams of over-the-road semi-trailers by means of a guiding latching system; and 2) stackable, up to three or more high, in the trailers or warehouses. Sophisticated battery-powered electronic locks, sensors and alarms are provided, as well as an RF communications and GPS locator module that radios to a base station the time, location and status of the inventive smart cargo container, and any anomalous events as they occur, including unauthorized attempts to open or break into the container, or potential damage events. In addition, both the locks and comm modules are programmable, and provide extensive, and selectably pollable and downloadable event, access and transport history and audit trails. The comm system permits remote tracking and real time status check via the Internet, LAN or WAN wireless networks.

Abstract: A safety logic for vehicle rollover detection systems comprising a main rollover detection logic and at least one protection device for the occupant or occupants of the vehicle, including a vehicle lateral acceleration sensor (11), which generates an output signal indicating a near rollover event, when a lateral acceleration of a vehicle exceeds the first predefined threshold value (15) or, when a lateral acceleration of vehicle exceeds the second predefined threshold value (16) that is lower than the first predefined threshold value (15) and simultaneously at least one additional safety logic activation signal is present (1, 1?, 1?, 1??).

Abstract: A method and system for adaptively controlling a hybrid vehicle comprises a recorder for recording a historical load or duty cycle of vehicle during or after operation of the vehicle. A classifier classifies the historical load in accordance with a load category. A controller assigns at least one of a current control curve and a slew rate control curve associated with the load category for a defined time period after the recording of the historical load or if the vehicle is presently operating generally consistent with the load category. At least one of the current control curve and the slew rate control curve, or data representative thereof, are used to control an operation of an electric drive motor of the vehicle for the defined time period.

Abstract: In one aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a payload control system for a machine having traction devices. The payload control system may have a force sensor configured to measure a force transmitted through the traction devices. The payload control system may also have a speed sensor configured to measure a speed of the machine. The payload control system may further have a controller in communication with the force sensor and the speed sensor. The controller may be configured to modify a weight limit of the machine based on the measured force and the measured speed.

Abstract: Relative center of gravity height in a motor vehicle changes from a nominal value to an actual value depending upon vehicle loading. Method and apparatus for determining actual relative center of gravity height are disclosed.

Abstract: Smart, rollable, mini-pallet cargo container system comprising robust, auditable, secure, sealable, lockable, trackable and pollable, universal, half/quarter-sized boxes particularly useful for moving highly valuable or sensitive, personal, political, military or commercial materials, embodiments include truly verifiable ballot boxes, verifiably secure moving containers. Blast attenuation inserts are disclosed. The boxes include electronic locks containing event memory, sensors and alarms, and RF communications and GPS locator module(s) that radio to a base station the time, location and status of the inventive box, and anomalous events as they occur, including unauthorized attempts to open or break into the container, or potential damage events. In addition, both the locks and comm modules are programmable, and provide extensive, and selectably pollable and down-loadable, printable event, access and transport history and audit trails.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and system for detecting a vehicle rollover or near-rollover event that may precede a rollover of a vehicle. The system comprises controller connected to at least one right and at least one left vehicle tire pressure sensor, performing the assessment of pressure signals on the basis of pressure characteristics corresponding to rollover or near-rollover events, and generating an output activation signal that determines the vehicle rollover or near-rollover event if said assessment is positive. The controller is preferably connected to at least one additional sensor and performs the additional assessment of this sensor signal on the basis of this signal characteristics corresponding to rollover or near-rollover events. The protection devices are activated sequentially, starting with the resetable protection devices, in dependence of estimated rollover confidence.

Abstract: A cargo reminder for a driver of a vehicle includes an accelerometer, a controller to detect an acceleration change in the vehicle based on output signals from the accelerometer, and an alarm connected to the controller. Different types of alarm may be used, including a visual alarm, an audio alarm, a plug-in vibrator clip, or a combination of these alarms. In use, the alarm is triggered by the controller when the acceleration change is larger than a preset acceleration threshold. The cargo reminder may also include an acceleration threshold input to allow the driver to input the preset acceleration threshold, a delay setting input to allow the driver to input a time delay between first and second alarm triggers, and an inclinometer. A method for reminding the driver of a vehicle of an external cargo being transported is also within the scope of the instant invention.

Abstract: A loading machine is disclosed with at least one drive train, with at least one overload protection device for the drive train and with sensors for determining an overload state in the drive train. Critical operating conditions of the loading machine can be determined based on signals from the sensors, such that the load application on the drive train can be influenced in terms of power. The determination of critical operating conditions is implemented by means of a control unit which evaluates the signals from the sensors. When preset threshold values have been attained, the control unit generates control signals for a fuel injection pump, upon which a preventive limitation of the power is initiated.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for detecting cargo state in a delivery vehicle. A method is provided for determining a cargo state in a delivery vehicle. The method includes sensing a cargo state change, and determining whether or not the delivery vehicle is in motion. The method also includes storing the cargo state change if it is determined that the delivery vehicle is not in motion.

Abstract: In a power train supporting apparatus and method for an automotive vehicle, at least three mount portions support a power train constituted by an engine and a transmission on a frame of a vehicle body in such a manner that the output axle of the engine intersects a center line of a vehicular longitudinal direction as viewed from a top of the vehicle. The three mount portions comprise engine front and rear side mounts arranged on a vehicular front side and a vehicular rear side with respect to the engine and a transmission side mount arranged in the vicinity of the transmission. The mounts are arranged in such a manner that a distance from a weight center of the power train to each of the engine front and rear side mounts is shorter than a distance from the weight center of the power train to the transmission side mount.

Abstract: A method for allocating wheels of a motor vehicle to a respective vehicle axle, each of the wheels includes an inflation tire whose tire pressure is monitored by a tire pressure monitoring device including at least one transmitting module in each wheel, and at least one receiving module arranged at or in the vehicle and one evaluation module, with each transmitting module transmitting tire pressure information and a wheel-specific identification number to the receiving module, which are sent to an evaluation process in the evaluation module, and tire pressure changes of the wheels are considered for the allocation, with the wheels having almost identical tire pressure changes being allocated to one vehicle axle by taking into account a vehicle-specific axle load.

Abstract: An acoustic floor mat is provided with a base layer, an upper surface, a lower surface, and a plurality of apertures configured to allow passage of acoustic transmissions therethrough. The base layer is further configured to provide a substantial barrier to the passage of liquid from the upper surface to the lower surface. Methods of making an acoustic floor mat are also disclosed.

Abstract: An anti-rollover system is used with a concrete mixing truck with a mixing drum, in particular during turning maneuvers, for preventing rollovers by the truck. The anti-rollover system is comprised of one or more sensors on the truck which generate an input signal representative of the truck's operating conditions indicative of a rollover condition. The system compares the sensor signal against stored data indicative of rollover conditions and if necessary initiates corrective action to prevent the truck from rolling over. Corrective action includes stopping, or in some circumstances slowing, rotation of the drum carrying a concrete load. With mixing trucks including a booster axle system, corrective action may additionally or separately include unloading the booster axle.

Abstract: In order to form a device for detecting and preprocessing weights acting on a vehicle seat in such a way that it can be used in particular in conditions which are very difficult in terms of measuring technology, and in particular under the other special ambient conditions within a vehicle, and the weighing signal of which is substantially uninfluenced by this and can consequently provide a reliable parameter for airbag activation, it is proposed that this device comprises at least three load cells, which are disposed on load-carrying parts of the vehicle seat at corner points of an imaginary polygonal area and in each case generate a weighing signal corresponding to the weight, and an electronic evaluation circuit, which receives and preprocesses the weighing signals of the load cells and generates an output signal based on the weighing signals, the evaluation circuit comprising an evaluation function with which a localization of the center of gravity of the weight acting on the vehicle seat can be carried ou

Abstract: An occupant determining device includes a load detecting sensor provided on a seat body and a controller. The controller calculates a detected load value based on an output value of the load detecting sensor and performs occupant determination based on the detected load value. The occupant determination state is switched to an adult determination state when a certain delaying time elapses after the detected load value exceeds a first determination threshold. The controller sets the delaying time shorter when the detected load value exceeds the first determination threshold within a predetermined time after the detected load value exceeds a second determination threshold.

Abstract: A passenger detection system is provided to determine if a passenger is present or not because the weight value corresponding to when the seat is empty has shifted. The passenger detection system detects when the door has changed from the closed state to the open state based on a signal from a door switch. The passenger detection system then senses the decrease in weight that occurs thereafter and stores the weight value obtained after the decrease as the empty seat value.

Abstract: A mechanism is disclosed for controlling the vertical position of the transport trailer floor of a heavy trailer bearing vehicle having a pivoting air spring suspension system such that the transport trailer floor maintains a fixed position level to an adjacent dock platform when parked for loading or unloading. The mechanism comprises various embodiments of a locking system that disables the pivotal movement of selected pivoting suspension elements in any one of a plurality of possible fixed positions such that the transport trailer floor, when parked, resists downwardly imposed forces and maintains a fixed elevation equal to the elevation of an adjacent loading dock platform.

Abstract: A detector for detecting the load applied to a passenger seat of an automobile equipped with an air bag. The load detector includes a sensor bracket having a deformation portion that deforms in accordance with the amount of the load. A strain sensor is arranged on the deformation portion to detect the degree of deformation of the deformation portion. A force limiter bracket is located adjacent to the sensor bracket to limit deformation of the deformation portion within a predetermined range. An anchor bracket is formed integrally with the force limiter bracket and is connected to a seat belt.

Abstract: A system and method for warning of a tip over condition in a motor vehicle, such as a tractor trailer, that is carrying a cargo load. The system includes at least one left side sensor for sensing a proportion of the cargo load carried on the left side of the motor vehicle's cargo section. Similarly, at least one right side sensor is provided for sensing a proportion of the cargo load carried on the right side of the motor vehicle's cargo section. A microprocessor is coupled to both the left side sensors and the right side sensors. The microprocessor calculates a ratio of the cargo load borne by the left side of the motor vehicle and the right side of the motor vehicle. An alarm is provided that is coupled to the microprocessor. The microprocessor sounds an alarm when the calculated ratio exceeds a predetermined threshold value, thus indicating a potential tip over condition.

Abstract: A vehicle rollover event detector (10) includes an accelerometer (80) that senses vehicle acceleration in a direction offset from a front-to-rear axis of the vehicle (12) and provides an acceleration signal (101) indicative thereof. A rollover sensor (14) senses vehicle roll and provides a roll signal (32) indicative of vehicle roll about the front-to-rear axis of the vehicle. A controller (26) compares the roll signal (32) against a first rollover threshold (42) when the acceleration signal (101) is less than an acceleration threshold (113) and compares the roll signal (32) against a second rollover threshold (116) when the acceleration signal (101) is equal to or greater than the acceleration threshold (113) and for indicating a vehicle rollover condition when the roll signal is greater than the threshold (42, 116) it is compared against.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of vehicle collision severity discrimination for actuating a safety device at an occupant location in the vehicle. The method provides steps for providing a plurality of velocity and load level trigger values, including velocity and load level pairs, indicating a plurality of threshold conditions for actuating the safety device at an occupant location. Vehicle velocity and load are monitored so that at the instant of a collision a severity evaluation may be made, particularly where the potential for vehicle crush ameliorates the potential danger to the occupants. Responsive to selected vehicle conditions, a collision indication signal is generated Responsive to generation of a collision indication signal, vehicle velocity, vehicle load, or both, are compared to threshold conditions for actuation of the safety device.