Abstract: A computer implemented method includes detecting a vehicle state for which a user is to be notified. The method also includes sending a notification for a user regarding the vehicle state. The method further includes receiving a response that a do not disturb mode is enabled for the user. The method additionally includes queuing the notification for later delivery. The method also includes re-sending the notification for the user at a later point in time than when an original notification was sent.

Abstract: At least one weighting value is determined in a manner that is influenced by a vehicle user. A maximum released power, which a predefined electrical consumer of the motor vehicle may consume, is determined as a function of the weighting value. The power consumption of the electrical consumer is controlled as a function of the maximum power that is released.

Abstract: An in format ion providing device has: a vehicle information acquiring section 220 that acquires vehicle information of a plurality of vehicles; a charge history information acquiring section 220 that acquires charge history information about charge history of a plurality of the vehicles; a charging facility information acquiring section 220 that acquires charging facility information about a charging facility, which includes at least a position of the charging facility and a utilization status of the charging facility; a searching section 220 that searches, according to a request from a request vehicle, for a charging facility which the request vehicle can use, as an object charging facility; a vehicle determining section 220 that determines, as a specific vehicle, a vehicle that has a possibility to use the object charging facility from among vehicles except the request vehicle; a utilization possibility predicting section 220 that predicts, as a utilization possibility, a possibility for the specific vehic

Abstract: A mobile terminal, a control method, a program and a recording medium which can advise the user about a charge or a change to a charged battery is provided. There are provided: a control means for erasing a screen of a display device automatically and showing a reason of the erasing and/or a coping process to a user; and a detection means for detecting a battery exchange or attachment/detachment of an external power supply.

Abstract: A system and method is provided for determining a mode of operation of a hybrid vehicle, obtaining torque data and speed data based on the mode of operation, and displaying component icons as well as a graphical representation of power flows. The graphical representation of power flows is displayed between pairs of the component icons. The component icons represent components of the hybrid vehicle including an engine, a battery, drive wheels, and an electric machine arrangement.

Abstract: A system comprising a power supply, an emergency warning light and a speaker, in combination with a control head. One or more processors controls operation of the system in response to received user input and provides system status for display. Storage media encoded with emergency warning light system instructions for execution by one or more of the processors controls the actuation of the emergency warning light system and controls light patterns generated by the emergency warning light system. The storage media is further encoded with siren system instructions for execution by one or more of the processors for controlling the actuation of the siren system and for controlling audible sounds generated by the siren system.

Abstract: Various embodiments relate to determining a range limit for a vehicle based on the vehicle's energy source status. An energy status of a vehicle and a location of an energizing station for the vehicle may be received at a computer. The computer may be operable to communicate with one or more vehicle systems. A travel distance value from a current location of the vehicle to the location of the energizing station may be calculated. Additionally, a range limit value for the vehicle based on the energy source status and the travel distance value may be calculated. Based on the range limit value, one or more range values of the vehicle with respect to returning to the energizing station may be determined.

Abstract: An SOC display displayed on a display includes a first region and a second region. The first region presents an SOC range capable of ensuring the minimum traveling performance. The SOC display displays an SOC within the first region. The second region presents an SOC range incapable of ensuring the minimum traveling performance. The boundary between the first region and the second region corresponds to an SOC lower limit value indicating the SOC lower limit capable of ensuring the minimum traveling performance. The SOC lower limit value is set based on the temperature of a power storage device.

Abstract: In at least one embodiment, a device for controlling one or more vehicle features for a primary driver and a secondary driver is provided. The device comprises at least one controller that is configured to receive at least one driver status signal indicative of the driver being one of the primary driver and the secondary driver and to determine whether the driver of the vehicle is the one of the primary driver and the secondary driver based on the at least one driver status signal. The controller is further configured to control one or more vehicle features and to prevent the one or more vehicle features from being disabled in response to determining that the at least one driver status signal indicates that the driver of the vehicle is the secondary driver.

Abstract: A charging port includes an inlet, a charging-in-progress lamp, and a communication-in-progress lamp. The inlet is configured to be connectable with a charging cable. During external charging by a charger, the charging-in-progress lamp indicates that external charging is being performed. Specifically, while the charging-in-progress lamp receives from a charging ECU a signal which indicates that external charging is being performed, the charging-in-progress lamp is lit. The communication-in-progress lamp is provided adjacently to the charging-in-progress lamp for indicating, while PLC-based communication by means of the charging cable is in progress, that PLC is being performed. Specifically, the communication-in-progress lamp is lit while the communication-in-progress lamp receives from the charging ECU a signal indicating that PLC is being performed.

Abstract: An energy gauge includes a first section indicating a remaining amount of fuel, a second section indicating a remaining amount of stored electric power and a baseline. The first section and the second section extend to the right and left with respect to the baseline. A sub-section indicating the remaining amount of fuel and a sub-section indicating the remaining amount of stored electric power are displayed continuously and integrally across the baseline, commonly starting from the baseline. The first section and the second section are arranged at the right and left sides, respectively, with respect to the baseline in correspondence with the positions at which a fuel inlet and a charging inlet are disposed.

Abstract: An information display system for a vehicle includes an information display for displaying a plurality of selectable information display levels according to an information display hierarchy. Each selectable information display level may include one or more visual gauges for conveying vehicle information. Each successive selectable information display level may include additional and/or alternative vehicle information when compared to the preceding selectable information display level. The information display system further includes a controller configured to display the plurality of selectable information display levels according to an at least one driver input. In this way, the information display can display a particular selectable information display level best suited to a driver's individual preferences or understanding of the vehicle's operations.

Abstract: A vehicle power management system (VPMS) controls a charging voltage of a battery in a vehicle, wherein a VPMS controller evaluates state-of-charge (SOC), battery temperature, and battery charging current to determine a charge mode. A rapid charge mode is used when the SOC is less than a first threshold, wherein the VPMS controller selects a target rapid charge voltage, compensates the target rapid charge voltage for the battery temperature, and transmits the compensated rapid charge voltage to the charging source. A normal charge mode is used when the SOC is greater than the first threshold and less than a second threshold, wherein a target normal charge voltage is selected and compensated which is less than the target rapid charge voltage. A trickle charge mode is used when the SOC is greater than the second threshold, wherein a target trickle charge voltage is less than the target normal charge voltage.

Abstract: Redundant power supplies and redundant channels of communication maximize the probability that a controller will trigger a battery disconnect switch to open when commanded to do so.

Abstract: A degradation evaluating unit collects data related to a power storage device from a vehicle through a power cable, and based on the collected data, evaluates the state of degradation of the power storage device. A data processing unit reads data related to the state of degradation of the power storage device evaluated by degradation evaluating unit from a storage unit, and processes the read data related to the state of degradation to a first display item for a user, a second display item for a dealer and a third display item for a manufacturer. A display control unit controls display of the data processed by data processing unit on a display terminal.

Abstract: A vehicle gauge and method for displaying an electric mode status of a vehicle that can operate in both an electric mode and one or more alternative modes. According to one exemplary embodiment, the method evaluates a number of throttle and non-throttle conditions and allocates portions of the total range of the vehicle gauge to these conditions. Based on these allocations, the method determines an overall vehicle gauge position that is representative of the electric mode status of the vehicle and provides this to the vehicle gauge so that the electric mode status can be displayed to the driver.

Abstract: A vehicle display may convey vehicle trip information and vehicle range information graphically to assist drivers in qualitatively visualizing and determining whether they can successfully make it to their destination before an on-board energy source is depleted. A trip gauge may include indicators corresponding to the relative locations of the vehicle, the destination, and a projected zero charge location associated with the vehicle's range or distance to empty value. The positions of the indicators relative to one another may indicate whether the excess energy is available for the vehicle to reach the destination or whether the energy available is insufficient. A battery gauge may also convey information associated with the vehicle range. Portions of the trip gauge and the battery gauge, as well as one or more of the associated indicators, may assigned various color values for display based upon energy consumption, vehicle range, and target distance information.

Abstract: A vehicle display may convey vehicle trip information and vehicle range information graphically to assist drivers in qualitatively visualizing and determining whether they can successfully make it to their destination before an on-board energy source is depleted. A trip gauge may include indicators corresponding to the relative locations of the vehicle, the destination, and a projected zero charge location associated with the vehicle's range or distance to empty value. The positions of the indicators relative to one another may indicate whether the excess energy is available for the vehicle to reach the destination or whether the energy available is insufficient. A battery gauge may also convey information associated with the vehicle range. Portions of the trip gauge and the battery gauge, as well as one or more of the associated indicators, may assigned various color values for display based upon energy consumption, vehicle range, and target distance information.

Abstract: An electric motor vehicle with an electric drive motor, an accumulator for storing electrical energy, an optical display device having a plurality of individually actuable lighting segments, and a display control device. To acquire important vehicle information easily and reliably by the display device, the lighting segments are arranged in such a way that they form an at least two-dimensional lighting segment field and irradiate light upward in the vertical direction. The display control device actuates the lighting segments of the lighting segment field such that the lighting segment field outputs a nondigital accumulator charge state information item and/or a nondigital vehicle operating state information item.

Abstract: An embodiment contemplates a method for determining belt slip in a vehicle. The vehicle includes an engine and an alternator rotatably coupled by an accessory drive belt. The accessory drive belt engaging a rotating member of the engine for driving a rotating member of the alternator. A battery voltage is measured. An estimated battery voltage is determined as a function of engine speed. The belt slip of the alternator is detected in response to a comparison of the estimated battery voltage and the measured battery voltage.

Abstract: A first DC/DC converter is connected to a higher-voltage output terminal of a rectifier by alternator wiring, a battery that supplies electric power to an on-board load is connected to the first DC/DC converter, a second DC/DC converter is connected to the higher-voltage output terminal of the rectifier by alternator wiring, and an electrical double-layer capacitor is connected to the second DC/DC converter.

Abstract: According to the present invention, a power supply control device for an electric power steering device used for a power supply system comprises a main battery 40 connected to the electric power steering device via a first power supply line and a sub-battery 50 connected to the electric power steering device via a second power supply line, wherein when detecting the state of the sub-battery, said power supply control device restricts or disconnects power supply from the main battery to the electric power steering device while it permits power supply from the sub-battery to the electric power steering device, characterized in that said power supply control device prevents the detection of the state of the second battery if a vehicle speed is higher than a predetermined reference value.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for guiding deactivation of a battery sensor of ISG vehicles is capable of informing a driver of operation prohibition when the battery sensor mounted on the ISG vehicles is deactivated. The apparatus for guiding deactivation of a battery sensor of ISG vehicles includes a display unit displaying that the battery sensor is deactivated; and an engine control unit determining whether the battery sensor normally operates or not, and controlling a display operation of the display unit based on the determination result.

Abstract: A plug-in vehicle includes a vehicle body having an outer panel, a propulsion unit such as an electric motor, a rechargeable battery, a recharging port supported on the outer panel to receive power from an external electric power source, and a display subassembly connected to the battery. The display subassembly has a plurality of lights positioned around the recharging port to illuminate the recharging port and to illuminate in a manner corresponding to a condition of the battery.

Abstract: A charged-amount display part displays a battery charge rate of an entire battery pack according to kinds of charge sources. An example of displaying the battery charge rate in the form of a bar chart is shown. A speed display part displays a vehicle speed of a running electric vehicle. The running cost display part displays a running cost calculated based on consumed electric power of the battery.

Abstract: One embodiment of the present subject matter includes a battery mounted to a vehicle, with a charge state circuit located in the electric vehicle and coupled to the battery, the charge state circuit configured to provide a charge state signal indicative of the charge state of the battery. The embodiment includes a charging coupler port located proximate to a user accessible exterior of the electrical vehicle and coupled to the battery, the charging coupler port to conduct charging energy to the battery and to provide a charger connection signal indicative of a connection to an external power source. The embodiment also includes a lighting circuit coupled to the charging coupler port and the charge state circuit to control the brightness and color of an illuminated indicator responsive to the charge state signal and the charger connection signal.

Abstract: The disclosed invention provides a system and apparatus for monitoring battery status and usage to facilitate battery protection, battery repurposing and battery maintenance. Wireless interrogation of a battery's location and key attributes provides efficiencies to manage the total lifecycle of an electric vehicle battery, whether installed in a vehicle or in an environment external to the vehicle environment. A wireless battery tether, combined with a wireless battery reader, a wireless battery gateway and a centralized battery monitoring server allows management of the high-voltage battery through its lifecycle.

Abstract: A vehicle using a motor, and a method of controlling the vehicle. The vehicle includes a battery for providing electric energy to the motor, a remaining energy-amount detector for detecting an amount of remaining energy of the battery, a distance calculator for calculating an available moving distance of the vehicle corresponding to the amount of remaining energy and a weight applied to the vehicle, and a display unit for displaying the available moving distance.

Abstract: A method is provided for fusing a plurality of self-contained diagnostics for generating a combined state of belief for a monitored system. A plurality of predetermined diagnostic states of self-contained diagnostic routines is executed. Each self-contained routine generates a respective state of belief result for the monitored system. Respective belief vectors are formulated as a function of belief results. A state space is provided that includes a plurality of sub-state spaces. Each of the sub-state spaces is representative of the predetermined diagnostic states of the monitored system. Belief vectors are assigned to the sub-state spaces of the state space. Belief vectors relating to each sub-state space are fused. A combined belief value is determined for each fused sub-state space. The sub-state space having the highest combined belief value is indicated in response to the determined probabilities as the actual diagnostic state of the monitored system.

Abstract: The present invention features a system and method for displaying a power status of a hybrid vehicle, which can provide more extensive and detailed information such as a power status of a motor and an engine, a battery charge/discharge status, an operational status of an engine brake, etc. during running of the hybrid vehicle. In embodiments of the present invention, the power ratio of the motor and the engine is displayed using a bar graph including a bar and a separator. In further embodiments, the status information of the motor and the engine, such as a battery charge/discharge status by a motor, an operational status of an engine brake, etc., is displayed in different colors, thereby allowing a driver to visually and easily recognize the displayed information.

Abstract: One embodiment of the present subject matter includes a battery mounted to a vehicle, with a charge state circuit located in the electric vehicle and coupled to the battery, the charge state circuit configured to provide a charge state signal indicative of the charge state of the battery. The embodiment includes a charging coupler port located proximate to a user accessible exterior of the electrical vehicle and coupled to the battery, the charging coupler port to conduct charging energy to the battery and to provide a charger connection signal indicative of a connection to an external power source. The embodiment also includes a lighting circuit coupled to the charging coupler port and the charge state circuit to control the brightness and color of an illuminated indicator responsive to the charge state signal and the charger connection signal.

Abstract: Information display systems capable of iconically representing the components of a hybrid powertrain and method thereof. In operation, the information display systems indicate the specific powertrain components in the hybrid system that are active in various hybrid operational modes (e.g., electric launch, blended torque, etc.). In particular, active components are highlighted (i.e., increased intensity) by the display and non-active components are faded (i.e., decreased intensity). In one embodiment, the vehicle wheels are depicted with a static intensity in-between that of the active components and the non-active components. This allows the vehicle operator to clearly see which components are active during each hybrid system mode, and to gain a simplified picture of hybrid system behavior during normal operation at a glance.

Abstract: An invention is described that enables a vehicle's electrical energy storage devices to charge in parking areas in which components of this invention are installed. The amount of energy consumed, combined with the amount charged are the components of a transaction. An embodiment allows the vehicle owner to have the cost of the energy consumed charged to his home electric bill. Another embodiment allows the vehicle owner to have the cost of the energy consumed charged to his home electric bill by recording his personal identification number at a kiosk or other input device co-locate at the parking area.

Abstract: A vehicle electrical system tester for testing the electrical system of a vehicle is provided. The electrical system has a wiring harness which extends between components of the vehicle and includes a plurality of wires. The vehicle electrical system tester is configured to measure an electrical parameter of at least one of the plurality of wires through a first connection to coupled to a first end of the at least one of the plurality of wires and a second connection coupled to a second end of the at least one of the plurality of wires. An electrical signal is applied between the first and second ends of the at least one of the plurality of wires and the electrical parameter of the at least one of the plurality of wires is responsively measured.

Abstract: Systems and methods for diagnosing battery voltage misreporting is described. According to various embodiments, battery voltage may be monitored with respect to a state of charge and/or time. Based on this monitored information, battery charge state data may be generated by computing time derivatives of the monitored battery voltage across a voltage range. This battery charge state data may be compared with an expected set of charge state data if substantial differences exist, an error may be generated. Other embodiments are described and claimed.

Abstract: A plug-in vehicle includes a vehicle body having an outer panel, a propulsion unit such as an electric motor, a rechargeable battery, a recharging port supported on the outer panel to receive power from an external electric power source, and a display subassembly connected to the battery. The display subassembly has a plurality of lights positioned around the recharging port to illuminate the recharging port and to illuminate in a manner corresponding to a condition of the battery.

Abstract: An alarm device of a vehicle battery for monitoring voltage ranges in charging and discharging processes of the vehicle battery uses a sampling circuit to monitor the charging and discharging voltages real time of a battery, and prompts alert through a light or a buzzer of an alert unit in accordance with the preset voltage stage in a charging and discharging process of the battery. Moreover, a connection port compatible to an external electric device for accessing and examining the defect of a malfunction battery as a reference for maintaining and updating a malfunctioned battery.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is used to confirm the charge amount and degradation state of a battery. Various cycle test battery measurements are conducted at prescribed time intervals until the end of the battery life, and the measured values are used to generate a determination table or determination tables showing relationships between battery charge amount and degradation state. To establish the charge amount and degradation state of a subject battery, the subject battery is measured and the results compared with determination table values. The existing charge amount and the state of battery degradation are estimated in accordance with a determination table location of matching values.

Abstract: The invention features a dual-mode audio system for an automobile which in one mode is configured for play while the doors to the automobile are closed, and in a second mode, is configured for play while a door, such as a tailgate, is opened. Additionally, the invention also features a battery monitor which monitors the operating condition of the battery and may estimate the energy capacity of the battery. The system may also take power conservation measures if the system determines that the engine is not running or the operating condition of the batter reaches a predetermined state. The invention also features a remote control integrated within a key fob for controlling the audio system. The invention features various orientations for mounting a pair of loudspeakers within an automobile which directly radiate sound out of a rear opening of the automobile.

Abstract: There is provided a generator control apparatus that includes a generating condition detector, an alarm issuing unit, and an alarm controller. The generating condition detector detects an operating condition of the generator for use in a vehicle. The alarm issuing unit is configured to issue alarm to a driver of the vehicle about an abnormal operating condition of the generator when the generating condition detector detects the evidence that the generator is running under an abnormal condition, and to stop to issue alarm to the driver when the generating condition detector detects the evidence that the generator is running in a normal condition.

Abstract: A plug-in vehicle includes a vehicle body having an outer panel, a propulsion unit such as an electric motor, a rechargeable battery, a recharging port supported on the outer panel to receive power from an external electric power source, and a display subassembly connected to the battery. The display subassembly has a plurality of lights positioned around the recharging port to illuminate the recharging port and to illuminate in a manner corresponding to a condition of the battery.

Abstract: Disparate robotic devices can be automatically recharged and reprogrammed by self-scheduling individual time slots for the available recharging area(s) of a charging station. These charging stations provide a nest to which each robot must return periodically for power. These nests can also provide new tasking or patches for the robotic devices. The charging station and the robotic devices are both provided with communications capabilities and a protocol by which they can negotiate to find a time slot in which the device can be recharged, as well as determining a correct connector and a battery type.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for automatically adjusting a continuously variable transmission (CVT) in a motorized vehicle. A microprocessor processor in the vehicle receives data about the operating status of the vehicle from a plurality. Examples of vehicle data include vehicle speed, motor speed, throttle position, current draw from a battery, and battery level. A servo motor is in mechanical communication with the CVT and provides an axial force to adjust the CVT. The microprocessor uses lookup tables of optimal set points for vehicle data to instruct the servo motor to adjust the transmission ratio of the CVT according to the vehicle data provided by the sensors.

Abstract: Disparate robotic devices can be automatically recharged and reprogrammed by self-scheduling individual time slots for the available recharging area(s) of a charging station. These charging stations provide a nest to which each robot must return periodically for power. These nests can also provide new tasking or patches for the robotic devices. The charging station and the robotic devices are both provided with communications capabilities and a protocol by which they can negotiate to find a time slot in which the device can be recharged, as well as determining a correct connector and a battery type.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed where a third brake light assembly contains solar cell panel and battery where the solar cell panel charges the battery, driving light and brake light wherein the driving light draws electricity from the battery, a radio frequency receiver that activates the driving light; a radio frequency transmitter that is coupled to a vehicle driving light switch, where the radio frequency transmitter receives instruction from the driving light switch and transmits instruction to the radio frequency receiver. Likewise, a method to add driving light to a vehicle's third brake light assembly is disclosed which includes providing solar cell panel, battery, and driving light where the solar cell panel charges the battery and the battery supplies power to the driving light, and providing radio frequency transmitter that is coupled to a vehicle driving light switch and it receives instruction from the driving light switch and transmits instruction to the radio frequency receiver.

Abstract: Systems, processes and apparatus are described through which signals are received from a controller, where the signals include a power ON signal. A time measurement element is started responsive to the power ON signal to assess a current duration of operation of the system. An existing cumulative record of system operation is recalled from a non-volatile memory in the system and the existing cumulative record is combined with the current duration to provide a representation of a running elapsed time, which is recorded in the non-volatile memory and is compared to a threshold to provide an indication when the running elapsed time has traversed the threshold.

Abstract: A vehicular display apparatus of the invention includes a display portion that displays a predetermined graphic in accordance with a present consumption amount of energy used for moving a vehicle. The graphic displayed on the display portion changes at least one of a displayed size and a displayed color thereof in accordance with the consumption amount. The displayed size increases as the consumption amount increases. The displayed color is changed to have a longer wavelength of color as the consumption amount increases.

Abstract: An alarm system associated with a charge cord of a plug-in vehicle is provided. The system includes a sensor configured to evaluate a status of the charge cord, including a coupled status when the charge cord is coupled to the vehicle and a decoupled status when the charge cord is not coupled to the vehicle. The system further includes an alarm interface coupled to the sensor and configured to activate an alarm when the charge cord is in the decoupled status.

Abstract: An automotive vehicle battery monitor includes an electrical connection configured to electrically couple to an electrical system of the vehicle. An output provides a visual indication related to a condition of the battery. A mount mounts the output at a location at which the output is visible from outside of the vehicle.

Abstract: A vehicle having a vehicle body has an interior portion with a plurality of trim components. A plurality of windows are supported on the body and positioned next to the interior portion. An electrical charging system having a rechargeable battery is attached to the vehicle body and configured to receive an electrical charge from at least one of an on-board charger, an external charger or a charging station. A display panel is connected to the electrical charging system and mounted on one of the trim components. The display panel is configured to display information indicative of a status of the electrical charging system. The display panel is disposed in a position such that the information is visible from a position exterior to the vehicle body.