Morris, MI
Benjamin Morris, Ann Arbor, MI US
Patent application number | Description | Published |
---|---|---|
20090255245 | HYDRAULIC SYSTEM INCLUDING PRIORITY BASED VALVE SEQUENCING - An exemplary hydraulic system includes a plurality of digital valves, each valve fluidly connectable to a corresponding hydraulic load. The digitals valves are operable to fluidly connect the corresponding hydraulic load to a pressure source. The hydraulic system further includes a digital controller operably connected to the plurality of digital valves. The digital controller is configured to assign a priority level so that it is associated with each of a plurality of hydraulic loads, and to formulate a pulse width modulated control signal based on the assigned priority levels. The digital controller transmits the control signal to the plurality of digital valves for controlling the operation of the valves. | 10-15-2009 |
20090255246 | HYDRAULIC SYSTEM INCLUDING OPEN LOOP AND CLOSED LOOP VALVE CONTROL SCHEMES - An exemplary hydraulic system includes a digital valve operable to fluidly connect a hydraulic load to a pressure supply. A digital controller is operably connected to the digital valve. The digital controller stores a target value of a hydraulic system operating parameter and is configured to formulate a pulse width modulated control signal based on the target value. The digital controller transmits the control signal to the digital valve for controlling the operation of the valve. | 10-15-2009 |
20090257891 | HYDRAULIC SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING VALVE PHASING - An exemplary hydraulic system includes a first digital valve fluidly connectable to a first hydraulic load and a pump. The first valve is operable to fluidly connect the first hydraulic load to the pump. A second digital valve is fluidly connectable to a second hydraulic load and the pump. The second valve is operable to fluidly connect the second hydraulic load to the pump. The system includes a first sensor for detecting a pump discharge pressure and a second sensor for detecting an inlet pressure of the first hydraulic load. A controller is configured to determine a time delay based on the pump discharge pressure and the first hydraulic load inlet pressure and to send a control signal instructing the second valve to commence opening at a time substantially equal to the time delay after commencing closing the first valve. | 10-15-2009 |
20090260352 | HYDRAULIC SYSTEM HAVING LOAD SENSING CAPABILITIES - An exemplary hydraulic system includes a digital valve operable to fluidly connect a hydraulic load to a pressure supply, and an orifice disposed in a flow path between the hydraulic load and the digital valve. A digital controller is operably connected to the digital valve. The digital controller stores a target pressure drop across the orifice and is configured to determine an actual pressure drop across the orifice and formulate a control signal based on the target pressure drop and the actual pressure drop. The controller transmits the control signal to the digital valve for controlling the operation of the valve. | 10-22-2009 |
20120022764 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR OPTIMIZING FUEL ECONOMY USING PREDICTIVE ENVIRONMENT AND DRIVER BEHAVIOR INFORMATION - Disclosed is an exemplary method for optimizing vehicle performance. The method includes determining an optimized drive torque for maximizing vehicle fuel economy and detecting a driver requested drive torque. A determination is made on whether the driver requested drive torque is performance related or safety related. The arbitrated drive torque is set to the optimized drive torque when it is determined that the driver requested drive torque is not performance and safety related. The arbitrated drive torque is set to the driver requested drive torque when it is determined that the driver requested drive torque is either performance or safety related. | 01-26-2012 |
20130291714 | HYDRAULIC SYSTEM INCLUDING PRIORITY BASED VALVE SEQUENCING - An exemplary hydraulic system includes a plurality of digital valves, each valve fluidly connectable to a corresponding hydraulic load. The digitals valves are operable to fluidly connect the corresponding hydraulic load to a pressure source. The hydraulic system further includes a digital controller operably connected to the plurality of digital valves. The digital controller is configured to assign a priority level so that it is associated with each of a plurality of hydraulic loads, and to formulate a pulse width modulated control signal based on the assigned priority levels. The digital controller transmits the control signal to the plurality of digital valves for controlling the operation of the valves. | 11-07-2013 |
Benjamin J. Morris, Ann Arbor, MI US
Patent application number | Description | Published |
---|---|---|
20130253782 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SIMULATING THE PERFORMANCE OF A VIRTUAL VEHICLE - A mobile computing apparatus simulates the performance of a virtual vehicle using the route, driving behavior and loading experience of a baseline vehicle. The baseline vehicle is instrumented and operational data is collected, forming a data set. The apparatus includes simulator logic configured to construct a duty cycle from the data set representative of the operation of the baseline vehicle during travel along the route (e.g., a loading duty cycle). The data set includes route data with distance and vehicle speed information, engine data associated with the engine, and operational element data. The logic defines a virtual vehicle that is the same as the baseline vehicle but that includes a virtual operational element, such as a transmission, that is different than that in the baseline vehicle. The logic determines a performance characteristic, such as fuel economy, of the virtual vehicle using the constructed duty cycle. | 09-26-2013 |
Benjamin James Morris, Ann Arbor, MI US
Patent application number | Description | Published |
---|---|---|
20100307599 | FLUID DEVICE WITH MAGNETIC LATCHING VALVES - A method of valving a fluid device includes receiving a signal that is correlated to a displacement of a volume chamber of a displacement assembly of a fluid device. A check ball is delatched from a magnetic pole of a first latch valve that is in fluid communication with the volume chamber and a fluid inlet of the fluid device when the displacement of the volume chamber reaches a first value. A check ball is delatched from a magnetic pole of a second latch valve that is in fluid communication with the volume chamber and a fluid outlet of the fluid device when the displacement of the volume chamber reaches a second value. | 12-09-2010 |
20130090832 | Supercharger-Based Twin Charging System for an Engine - The present disclosure relates to dual compression engine boosting systems utilizing both a turbocharger and a supercharger and control systems relating to relative activation and deactivation of the boosting devices. Various Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) configurations are also disclosed for the dual compression engine boosting systems. | 04-11-2013 |
Christina Morris, Auburn Hills, MI US
Patent application number | Description | Published |
---|---|---|
20140197620 | MULTI-CHAMBER DRIVER AIRBAGS - A driver airbag can be deployed from a steering wheel of a vehicle. The airbag can include a first inflatable chamber and a second inflatable chamber that can be deployed adjacent to the first inflatable chamber. The airbag can further include a one-way valve that controls inflation gas movement relative to at least the first inflatable chamber. | 07-17-2014 |
Christina R. Morris, Auburn Hills, MI US
Patent application number | Description | Published |
---|---|---|
20110101660 | LOW-MOUNT INFLATABLE KNEE AIRBAGS HAVING SERIAL CHAMBERS - An inflatable knee airbag can have a plurality of inflatable chambers. The inflatable chambers can be formed as independent chambers, rather than a single chamber being divided by an internal tether. The inflatable chambers can be arranged in a serial configuration, wherein the chambers form an “L” shape so that when the airbag is deployed, it conforms to the shape of an instrument panel. | 05-05-2011 |
20150158452 | MULTI-CHAMBER AIRBAGS - An airbag can include a first cushion portion that defines a first inflatable chamber and a second cushion portion that is connected to the first cushion portion and defines a second inflatable chamber. The first inflatable chamber can receive inflation gas from an inflator to expand the first cushion portion and the second cushion portion can receive inflation gas from the first inflatable chamber to expand the second cushion portion. In some arrangements, a temporary fastener may maintain the second cushion portion in a compact state during expansion of the first cushion portion. | 06-11-2015 |
Daniel C. Morris, Grosse Point Park, MI US
Patent application number | Description | Published |
---|---|---|
20120021992 | METHODS FOR IMPROVING NEUROLOGICAL OUTCOME AFTER NEURAL INJURY AND NEURODEGENERATIVE DISEASE - Thymosin β | 01-26-2012 |
20150224175 | METHODS, SYSTEMS, AND COMPOSITIONS FOR PROMOTING RECOVERY OF PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY - Without limitation, some embodiments comprise a method of treatment for promoting recovery of peripheral neuropathy in a subject, including administering to a subject in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount of a composition comprised of thymosin beta 4, amino acid sequences LKKTET or LKKTNT, and/or any conservative variants thereof, or an agent that stimulates production of any of those materials, or a conservative variant thereof. | 08-13-2015 |
Daniel G. Morris, Ovid, MI US
Patent application number | Description | Published |
---|---|---|
20090270059 | Receiver system and method for receiving signals - A receiver system and method for receiving signals are provided, wherein the system includes a plurality of antenna elements configured to receive a transmitted signal. A receiver device is in communication with the plurality of antenna elements, wherein the receiver device is configured to emit an output based upon the received signal, and communicate a control signal that corresponds to a determined signal quality of the received signal. A switch device is adapted to switch among the plurality of antenna elements to electrically connect a selected antenna element of the plurality of antenna elements to the receiver device. A controller is in communication with the receiver device, such that the controller receives the control signal, wherein the controller commands the switch device to directly switch to any of the antenna elements to electrically connect one of the plurality of antenna elements to the receiver device based upon the control signal. | 10-29-2009 |
20100045515 | Communications system and method of communicating data - A communications system and method thereof are provided, wherein the system includes a first receiver. The first receiver includes at least one antenna element configured to receive the first signal having a first polarization, and a combiner in communication with the at least one antenna element, wherein the combiner enhances the first signal and minimizes a second signal having a second polarization that is different than the first polarization of the first signal, such that an output is emitted by the first receiver based upon the received first signal. The first receiver further includes a beam steerer in communication with the combiner, wherein the beam steerer is configured to steer an antenna beam of the at least one antenna element in order to minimize reflection of the second signal, such that the second polarization of the second signal remains different than the first polarization of the first signal. | 02-25-2010 |
20100060520 | Receiver device and method of receiving a plurality of signals - A receiver device and method of receiving a plurality of signals are provided, wherein the receiver device includes at least one antenna element and circuitry in communication with the at least one antenna element. The at least one antenna element is configured to receive at least a first signal having a first polarization and a second signal having a second polarization, wherein the first polarization is different than the second polarization. The circuitry is configured to process and emit an output based upon at least one of the received first and second signals, wherein the first signal is received at a first reception elevation angle with respect to the at least one antenna element that is greater than a second reception elevation angle of the second signal with respect to the at least one antenna element, and the first and second signals are transmitted at substantially the same frequency. | 03-11-2010 |
20100189204 | HYBRID SWITCHED-PHASED DIVERSITY SYSTEM AND METHOD - A receiver system and method are provided, wherein the system includes a plurality of antenna elements, and a receiver device configured to emit an output based upon the received signal. The receiver device communicates a control signal that corresponds to a determined signal quality of the received signal. The receiver system also includes a switch system adapted to switch among the plurality of antenna elements in a plurality of modes, wherein the switch system includes a first switch device and a second switch device. Further, the system includes a controller that receives the control signal, wherein the controller commands the switch system to operate in a first mode utilizing the first switch device when the determined signal quality is above a threshold value, and the controller commands the switch system to operate in a second mode utilizing the second switch device when the determined signal quality is below a threshold value. | 07-29-2010 |
Daniel M. Morris, Adrian, MI US
Patent application number | Description | Published |
---|---|---|
20120168986 | Rigid Semi-Flexible Polyurethane for Structural Applications - Disclosed is a blown rigid semi-flexible urethane material that is loaded by using a wide variety of filler materials which become encapsulated in the urethane matrix. Disclosed are sample formulation and material variations, possible products that can be manufactured from the material, and possible material processing options and methods of manufacturing the material. Disclosed are possible methods of molding the material including a new cost effective method of molding variations of many interior and exterior products. | 07-05-2012 |
Dan O. Morris, Troy, MI US
Patent application number | Description | Published |
---|---|---|
20090063745 | DETACHABLE INTERFACE DEVICE FOR POWERING PORTABLE DATA PROCESSING SYSTEM USING A VEHICLE DIAGNOSTIC PORT - A interface device for powering a data processing system using an output of a vehicle diagnostic port, such as an OBD II connector, that outputs self-diagnostic information. The vehicle diagnostic port is disposed on, and an integral part of, a vehicle. The interface device includes a first connector, a second connector and a power converter. The first connector is configured to detachably couple to the vehicle diagnostic port to receive output signals therefrom. The output signals of the vehicle diagnostic port include a vehicle power output and a diagnostic output including self-diagnostic information. The second connector is configured to detachably couple to a docking connector of the data processing system. The power converter, coupled to the first connector and the second connector, is configured to generate a regulated voltage based on the vehicle power output of the vehicle diagnostic port. The regulated voltage is provided to power the data processing system. | 03-05-2009 |
20100205450 | VEHICLE DIAGNOSTIC TOOL WITH COPY PROTECTION AND AUTOMATIC IDENTIFICATION OF VEHICLE ECUS AND FAULT DISPLAY - A diagnostic tool for a vehicle configured to automatically identify different communication protocols used by Electronic Control Units (ECUs) on-board the vehicle. The diagnostic tool includes a connector connectable to a data port of the vehicle; a data processor and a data storage device configured to store a list of different communication protocols. The data processor automatically initiates communications with the ECUs on-board the vehicle using a first communication protocol and if the data processor receives a response comporting to the first communication protocol, the data processor determines that at least one ECU on-board the vehicle is using the first communication protocol. Additionally, the data processor automatically initiates communications with the ECUs on-board the vehicle using a second communication protocol and if the data processor receives a response comporting to the second communication protocol, the data processor determines that at least one ECU on-board the vehicle is using the second communication protocol. | 08-12-2010 |
Darice M. Morris, Wolverine Lake, MI US
Patent application number | Description | Published |
---|---|---|
20120246882 | Hose Clamp with Wrap-Around Hose Clamp Positioner - A hose clamp for forming an air tight seal between a hose and a connector projecting from a housing of an air cooler of a vehicle. The hose clamp including a band which encircles the hose at a location where the hose and the connector overlap and has an adjustable diameter. The hose clamp positioned by a wrap-around hose clamp positioner. The wrap-around hose clamp positioner including flat portions, which contact the outer surface of the hose, and a raised portion where the band passes through a space of the raised portion. The wrap-around hose clamp positioner further including a wrap-around portion and a crimp tab, the wrap-around portion extending over a lip edge of the hose such that the crimp tab pierces through at least the inner surface of the hose. | 10-04-2012 |
20130174385 | Anti-Rotation Worm Gear Clamp - An assembly for clamping a tube includes a fitting including a land, a bolt housing, legs, and a tooth on each leg, a band surrounding an axis, contacting the land and formed with holes spaced along the band, and a bolt located in the bolt housing, including helical teeth engaged with said holes for changing a diameter of the band and forcing the tooth toward the band as the band is tightened by rotating the bolt. | 07-11-2013 |
Jeffrey M. Morris, Clinton Township, MI US
Patent application number | Description | Published |
---|---|---|
20130047934 | ANIMAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM - A method and apparatus for restraining an animal such as a doc within an automotive vehicle equipped with a personal (human) belt-type restraint system having an inertia brake. A tether is attachable at one end to an animal harness and at the other end to a section of human restraint system webbing, the latter attachment being achieved by way of a spring biased clamp having friction pads on the inside surfaces of two complemental clamp elements. The clamp elements are closed and secured by means of a buckle or clasp such as a loop/spring bayonet clasp. | 02-28-2013 |
Kris Morris, Roseville, MI US
Patent application number | Description | Published |
---|---|---|
20110315473 | SOUND DAMPING PATCH - A panel assembly for use in any number of different applications, including a variety of vehicle applications, that reduces noise or vibrations, provides thermal insulation, and/or improves structural integrity. According to an exemplary embodiment, the panel assembly includes a main panel made from a metal, one or more sound damping patches also made from a metal, and an adhesive layer that joins the patches to the main panel in a constrained layer construction. The sound damping patches may include one or more forming features, which are designed to improve the formability of the panel assembly without significantly impairing its sound damping characteristics. There are different types of forming features, including internal forming features (e.g., openings, holes, slits, slots, etc.) located within the interior of the patch and external forming features (e.g., projections, fingers, recesses, waveforms, etc.) located along the perimeter of the patch. | 12-29-2011 |
Kristin Morris, Grand Rapids, MI US
Patent application number | Description | Published |
---|---|---|
20150258158 | COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR INHIBITION OF TRIGLYCERIDE SYNTHESIS VIA SYNERGISTIC COMBINATION OF BOTANICAL FORMULATIONS - Compositions and methods for inhibition of triglyceride synthesis via synergistic combination of botanical extracts are described. Specifically, the present invention relates to treating or preventing weight gain or obesity, promoting weight loss, appetite suppression, or the like, as well as managing skin oil production through a synergistic inhibition of diacylglycerol acyltransferase-I (DGAT-I) enzyme involved in the triglyceride synthesis and modulation of sterol regulatory element binding protein Ic (SREBP-Ic) and/or peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma coactivator I-alpha (PGCIα). | 09-17-2015 |
Mark Anthony Morris, Ypsilanti, MI US
Patent application number | Description | Published |
---|---|---|
20090029995 | HETERO BIARYL DERIVATIVES AS MATRIX METALLOPROTEINASE INHIBITORS - This invention provides compounds defined by Formula I | 01-29-2009 |
Matthew Morris, Lake Orion, MI US
Patent application number | Description | Published |
---|---|---|
20110127106 | ASPIRATOR WITH INTEGRAL MUFFLER - An aspirator with an integral muffler includes a housing having a top, a bottom and a side and an aspirator chamber and a muffler chamber in the housing. The aspirator chamber includes an inlet, an outlet and a venturi section between the inlet and the outlet, and the muffler chamber has an outlet and an inlet in fluid communication with the muffler chamber duct. A duct extends from the muffler chamber outlet into the aspirator chamber. | 06-02-2011 |
Michael D. Morris, Ann Arbor, MI US
Patent application number | Description | Published |
---|---|---|
20090219523 | Method and System for Measuring Sub-Surface Composition of a Sample - In a method for measuring a composition of a sample, an illumination surface area of the sample is illuminated using a light source, and light from a plurality of emitting surface areas of the sample is received, each emitting surface area at a different location, the received light scattered by the sample. A cumulative area of the illumination surface area is greater than a cumulative area of two emitting surface areas of the plurality of emitting surface areas. For each emitting surface area, spectral content information associated with received light corresponding to that emitting surface area is determined, and composition information corresponding to a sub-surface region of the sample is determined based on the determined spectral content information. Different shapes of illumination surface areas as well as the plurality of emitting surface areas may advantageously be utilized for various specimen or sample geometries or illumination sources. | 09-03-2009 |
20100234740 | Method and Apparatus for Evaluating Ocular Tissue Conditions - Methods and apparatus are provided for evaluating an ocular tissue condition of a patient (e.g., a disease, a risk of developing a disease, etc.). For example, an indicator associated with the ocular tissue condition may be generated. A portion of ocular tissue of the patient is irradiated using a light source. Light from the portion of the ocular tissue is received. Raman spectra information associated with the received light is determined. An indicator of an ocular tissue condition is generated based at least on the Raman spectra information. The indicator may, for example, assist a physician in diagnosing or ruling out the ocular tissue condition. | 09-16-2010 |
Paul Morris, Ann Arbor, MI US
Patent application number | Description | Published |
---|---|---|
20120330498 | SECURE DATA STORE FOR VEHICLE NETWORKS - A vehicle network system includes at least one module connected to a system of a vehicle, and a connectivity module. The connectivity module has a data store in communication with the at least one module. The connectivity module can write data to the data store. The data store permits read-only access of the data from the at least one module by a communications device. | 12-27-2012 |
20130076883 | VEHICLE SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING INFORMATION REGARDING AN EXTERNAL ITEM A DRIVER IS FOCUSING ON - A system and method for providing information to a driver of a vehicle includes: an image-capture device; a head or eye-gaze tracker; at least one processor; and an output device. The image-capture device captures an image of an environment external to a vehicle. The head or eye-gaze tracker determines an item a driver of the vehicle is viewing. The at least one processor processes the captured image. The at least one processor also translates language contained in the captured image of the item the driver is viewing to a second language, or determines point-of-interest information based on the captured image of the item the driver is viewing. The output device outputs information containing the second translated language of the captured image of the item the driver is viewing, or containing the determined point-of-interest information based on the captured image of the item the driver is viewing. | 03-28-2013 |
20130097557 | METHOD OF CONTROLLING A DISPLAY COMPONENT OF AN ADAPTIVE DISPLAY SYSTEM - An adaptive display system includes a display component to present an image to a user, a sensor for detecting a vision characteristic of the user and generating a sensor signal representing the vision characteristic of the user; and a processor in communication with the sensor and the display component, wherein the processor receives the sensor signal, analyzes the sensor signal based upon an instruction set to determine the vision characteristic of the user, and controls a visual output of the display component based upon the vision characteristic of the user. | 04-18-2013 |
20130187845 | ADAPTIVE INTERFACE SYSTEM - An adaptive display system includes a user interface having a display for generating a visual output to a user, a sensor for capturing an image of a tracking region of the user and generating a sensor signal representing the captured image, and a processor in communication with the sensor and the display, wherein the processor receives the sensor signal, analyzes the sensor signal based upon an instruction set to determine a displacement of the tracking region of the user, and controls a visual indicator presented on the display based upon the displacement of the tracking region of the user. | 07-25-2013 |
20150124068 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MONITORING A DRIVER OF A VEHICLE - A system for monitoring a driver of a vehicle is provided. The system includes an infrared flash to beam an infrared light at the driver; an infrared camera to capture the reflection from the beam; and a reflective infrared film adhered to a windshield of the vehicle. A method for implementing a driver monitoring system is provided. The method includes installation of an infrared reflective layer on a vehicle; installing an infrared camera and an infrared flash in a dashboard of the vehicle; and orientating either the infrared camera or the infrared flash in a direction facing the infrared reflective layer. | 05-07-2015 |
20150241961 | ADJUSTING A DISPLAY BASED ON A DETECTED ORIENTATION - A system and method for adjusting a display based on a detected orientation is disclosed herein. The system includes an orientation detector to detect an orientation of a viewer associated with the display, the display including at least a first display and a second display; an information input module to receive information to output on either the first display or the second display; and a display selector to select either the first display or the second display to output the information based on the detected orientation. | 08-27-2015 |
Paul O. Morris, Ann Arbor, MI US
Patent application number | Description | Published |
---|---|---|
20150185831 | SWITCHING BETWEEN GAZE TRACKING AND HEAD TRACKING - A system and method for switching between eye tracking and head tracking is provided herein. The system includes an eye tracking interfacer to interface with an eye tracking system; a head tracking interfacer to interface with a head tracking system; and a switching determiner to determine at least one of the eye tracking system and the head tracking system to control an electronic system. Also disclosed herein is an electronic system controlled by a eye tracking input device or a head tracking input device. | 07-02-2015 |
20150185834 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR GAZE TRACKING - A system and method for gaze tracking is disclosed herein. The system includes a tracking device to detect a gaze associated with a user onto either a first feature or a second feature; and a controller, based on a detection of the gaze onto a first feature, configured to associate a mode of operation with a first function, and based on a detection of the gaze onto the second feature, configured to associate the mode of operation with a second function. | 07-02-2015 |
Peter Morris, Novi, MI US
Patent application number | Description | Published |
---|---|---|
20090325054 | Battery Cell Assembly Having Heat Exchanger With Serpentine Flow Path - A battery cell assembly is provided. The battery cell assembly includes a battery cell and a heat exchanger disposed adjacent the battery cell configured to cool the battery cell. The heat exchanger has an outer housing. The outer housing defines an interior region and first and second flow guide members. The first and second flow guide members define a serpentine flow path in the interior region. The first and second flow guide members are tilted generally upwardly in the interior region. The serpentine flow path extends from an inlet aperture in the outer housing to another flow path in the outer housing. The another flow path extends from the serpentine flow path to an outlet aperture. The another flow path has a smaller cross-sectional area than a cross-sectional area of each portion of the serpentine flow path such that air bubbles in fluid entering the inlet aperture are urged upwardly through the serpentine flow path and accelerated through the another flow path to exit the outer housing at the outlet aperture. | 12-31-2009 |
Robert L. Morris, Milford, MI US
Patent application number | Description | Published |
---|---|---|
20090118945 | METHOD FOR MANAGING LASH IN A DRIVELINE - A hybrid powertrain system includes a transmission device operative to transfer power between an input member, a torque machine and an output member, the output member coupled to a driveline coupled to a wheel to transfer tractive torque therebetween. A method for controlling the hybrid powertrain system includes monitoring an operator torque request, determining an operating range state of the transmission device, determining a net output torque to the output member based upon the operator torque request, determining a lash state of the driveline, and determining a command for transferring output torque to the output member based upon the operating range state of the transmission device, the net output torque, and the lash state of the driveline. | 05-07-2009 |
20100087996 | Apparatus and Method for Regulating Active Driveline Damping in Hybrid Vehicle Powertrain - The present invention provides an improved method and apparatus for regulating active damping in a hybrid vehicle powertrain. The method includes: monitoring the damping command sent to the active damping system; determining a mean reference point, which may be a filtered value of the damping torque command; determining if the unfiltered damping torque command value switches from one side to the other of the mean reference point; if a switch is detected, determining if the size of the switch exceeds a predetermined minimum; if it does, then increasing a total number of switches; determining if the total number of switches exceeds a switch threshold; if the total number of switches exceeds the switch threshold, determining if the current damping torque exceeds a damping torque threshold; and decreasing the damping torque if the total number of switches exceeds the switch threshold and the current damping torque exceeds the damping torque threshold. | 04-08-2010 |
20100114424 | Apparatus and Method for Determining Driveline Lash Estimate - An improved method and apparatus for estimating driveline lash in a vehicle powertrain is provided herein. The method includes: determining if the powertrain is transitioning through driveline lash, e.g., driver commanded torque value changes sign, and then stays between a minimum and maximum commanded torque threshold for a calibrated time; if the powertrain is transitioning through driveline lash, determining when the driveline lash is taken up, e.g., when the transmission output acceleration exceeds a threshold minimum output acceleration, and thereafter changes sign; determining when the estimated lash state changes from neutral to a positive or negative state, which may be inferred from the axle torque estimate behavior; determining the time difference between when the driveline lash is taken up and when the estimated lash state changes from neutral to a positive or negative state; and updating the adaptive lash estimate if the aforementioned time difference is not equal to zero. | 05-06-2010 |
20100138107 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR REGULATING HYBRID ACTIVE DAMPING STATE ESTIMATOR - The present invention provides an improved method and apparatus for regulating state variable estimators used in a hybrid active damping system for a vehicle powertrain. The state estimator provides variable estimates for operating states, such as real-time torque values of axles and dampers, that are not readily measurable with production powertrain and driveline hardware. This facilitates implementation of other control algorithms, such as torque oscillation damping control schemes which use multivariable feedback. The apparatus and method monitors the operating mode of the powertrain, and resets the state estimator for the hybrid active damping ring (HADR) under predetermined operating conditions. For instance, the state estimator includes an array of current state and predicted state variables that are set equal to corresponding reference values or measured values if the powertrain enters into four-wheel drive low (4WDLO). | 06-03-2010 |
20110178686 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MULTIVARIATE ACTIVE DRIVELINE DAMPING - A multivariate control method and system to control torque output from a powertrain system to a driveline is provided, to reduce driveline oscillations. The powertrain preferably comprises hybrid powertrain having a plurality of torque-generative devices connected to a transmission. Desired powertrain and driveline operating states are determined, as are a plurality of operating state errors. Each torque-generative device is controlled, based upon the operating state errors, and operating mode of the transmission. A damping torque command, additive to a commanded torque, is determined for one or more of the torque-generative devices based upon the determined transmission operating mode. Determined operating states include operator input, and powertrain/driveline including driveline torque; transmission input torque, rotational speed of the torque-generative devices; road load; and, accessory load. | 07-21-2011 |
20120059538 | CLOSED-LOOP SPEED AND TORQUE DAMPING CONTROL FOR HYBRID AND ELECTRIC VEHICLES - A method for minimizing driveline disturbances in a vehicle includes using a controller to automatically combine a damping torque control command with a motor speed control command in a closed loop to prevent a perceptible discontinuity in an applied motor torque during a change in transmission gear states. The method may include calculating error values in the rotational speeds of one or two traction motors, and using the calculated error value(s) to determine a required damping torque. The controller can multiply the error value for one traction motor by a gain value of the other traction motor before determining the required damping torque. A vehicle includes first and second traction motors, a transmission, and a controller. The transmission is powered by the traction motors, and the controller combines a damping torque control command with motor speed control command to prevent a discontinuity in an applied motor torque as noted above. | 03-08-2012 |
20120065820 | ONE-SIDED DETECTION AND DISABLING OF INTEGRATOR WIND UP FOR SPEED CONTROL IN A VEHICLE - A method or algorithm controls a motor in a vehicle having a proportional-integral controller. The controller determines a commanded damping control torque as a proportional output torque value and a commanded motor speed control torque as an integrator output torque value. The integrator torque output value is frozen only if the proportional torque output value saturates against a limit and the direction of the speed error is the same as that of the integrator torque output value. The proportional torque output value is calculated using different error values than are used in calculating the integrator output value. A vehicle includes one or more traction motors and the controller noted above. For two motors, the controller determines the damping torques and motor speed control torques separately for each motor. | 03-15-2012 |
20120065821 | FREQUENCY SPLITTING AND INDEPENDENT LIMITATION OF VEHICLE TORQUE CONTROL - A method for optimizing torque control in a vehicle having a controller and a rotating member includes generating a closed-loop total proportional torque command using a state space feedback portion of the controller, and splitting the total proportional torque command into high-frequency and low-frequency proportional torque components. A total proportional torque is passed to the rotating member to provide driveline damping control when speed control is not required. The high-frequency proportional torque component is passed to the rotating member to provide driveline damping control, and the low-frequency torque component is passed with a total integral torque command to the rotating member to provide speed control, when speed control is required. A vehicle includes a controller having proportional-integral control capabilities and a state space observer, and a powertrain having a rotating member whose speed and damping characteristics are controlled by the controller. | 03-15-2012 |
20120065856 | USE OF A CLUTCH PROPORTIONAL-INTEGRAL CONTROLLER TO ASSIST A STATE OBSERVER DURING A VEHICLE SHIFT EVENT - A method for optimizing a shift event in a vehicle includes designating a clutch to be used as an oncoming clutch or an offgoing clutch in the shift event before executing the shift event, and processing a plurality of input values through a state observer to thereby determine, as an output value of the state observer, an estimated slip speed of the designated clutch. The method includes using a proportional-integral control module for the designated clutch (a clutch PI) to close the control loop on the estimated slip speed from the state observer, thereby smoothing a switching between state space equations in the state observer, and executing the shift event. A vehicle includes a transmission, an engine, at least one traction motor, and a control system configured for executing the above method. | 03-15-2012 |
20120089281 | METHOD AND DRIVELINE STABILITY CONTROL SYSTEM FOR A VEHICLE - A method for controlling driveline stability in a vehicle includes generating an activation signal indicative of a predetermined vehicle maneuver, which may include a hard braking maneuver on a low coefficient of friction surface. A quick automatic shift to a neutral gear state is executed with a rapid dumping or bleeding off of clutch pressure in a designated output clutch of the vehicle. An activated state of an antilock braking system (ABS) may be used as part of the activation signal. The shift to the neutral gear state may occur only when a current transmission operating state is associated with the high level of driveline inertia. A vehicle includes a transmission and a control system configured to execute the above method. | 04-12-2012 |
20120089282 | METHOD AND ENGINE STABILITY CONTROL SYSTEM FOR A HYBRID ELECTRIC VEHICLE - A method for controlling a hybrid electric vehicle having a control system, a traction motor, and an engine includes generating an activation signal during a predetermined vehicle maneuver. The predetermined vehicle maneuver is a threshold hard braking maneuver on a surface having a low coefficient of friction. The method also includes processing the activation signal using the control system, and using the traction motor to command an injection or a passing of a feed-forward torque to the driveline of the vehicle. The feed-forward torque is in the same direction as the engine torque, and prevents a drive shaft of the engine from spinning in reverse during the maneuver. The method may include generating the activation signal in response to detecting an active state of the ABS controller. A hybrid electric vehicle includes an engine, a traction motor, and a control system configured to execute the above method. | 04-12-2012 |
20120109474 | DRIVELINE LASH MANAGEMENT IN POWERTRAIN SYSTEMS - A powertrain system includes a torque machine mechanically rotatably coupled via a transfer gear set to a drive wheel. The transfer gear set includes a first gear meshingly engaged to a second gear with lash angle between the first and second gears. A method for operating the powertrain system includes monitoring an output speed associated with the torque machine and a wheel speed associated with the drive wheel. A transition between a first torque transfer state and a second torque transfer state is detected, the transition including a gear lash event across the transfer gear set. An elapsed time period for completing the gear lash event across the transfer gear set during the transition between the first torque transfer state and the second torque transfer state is set, and a target output speed derived from the wheel speed during and at the end of the elapsed time period is determined. A preferred output speed profile during the gear lash event is also determined, and includes prescribed changes in the output speed associated with phase-shifting the lash angle from a minimum lash angle to a maximum lash angle. The output speed is adjusted to be substantially equal to the target output speed at the end of the elapsed time period. The torque machine is controlled to achieve the preferred output speed profile. | 05-03-2012 |
20120179316 | WOBBLE COMPENSATION OF AN ENCODER SPEED SIGNAL FOR AN ELECTRIC MOTOR - A vehicle includes a traction motor, a transmission, a speed encoder for the motor, and a control system. The control system compensates for angular wobble in an encoder signal. The control system receives, via a hybrid control processor (HCP), the encoder signal from the speed encoder, and determines a set of wobble characteristics of the encoder signal below a threshold motor speed. The control system also calculates a wobble-compensated speed value via the HCP using the wobble characteristics, and uses the wobble-compensated speed value as at least part of the input signals when controlling the motor. A lookup table tabulates a learned wobble value relative to the angular position value, and a learned wobble value is subtracted from a current angular wobble value to generate an error-adjusted wobble value. A method compensates for wobble in the encoder signal using the above control system. | 07-12-2012 |
20120245771 | UNSTABLE SIGNAL DETECTION FOR ELECTRO-MECHANICAL VEHICLE COMPONENT - An example vehicle includes a motor and a gearbox. A controller is configured to identify oscillation peaks of a performance signal representing the rotational speed of the motor, the input speed of the gearbox, or the amount of torque generated by the motor or provided to the gearbox. The controller is configured to simultaneously detect unstable regular and irregular oscillations of the performance signal given the oscillation peaks identified and substantially dampen the unstable oscillations detected. An example method may include determining a mean of the performance signal and defining peak values, including peak moving average values or filtered peak values, representing a magnitude of at least two oscillation peaks. The method further includes simultaneously detecting the unstable regular and irregular oscillations of the performance signal using the defined values and substantially dampening the unstable oscillations. | 09-27-2012 |
20120277963 | FORECAST OF DRIVELINE LASH CONDITION FOR MULTIVARIABLE ACTIVE DRIVELINE DAMPING CONTROL - A method to predict a driveline lash condition includes monitoring an axle torque request signal, determining a predicted axle torque request value at a lead time based upon the monitored axle torque request signal, and predicting the driveline lash condition at the lead time based upon the predicted axle torque request value indicating an upcoming zero torque condition. | 11-01-2012 |
20130325184 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLING A MULTI-MODE TRANSMISSION - A powertrain system including a multi-mode transmission is configured to transfer torque among an input member, torque machines and an output member. A method for controlling the multi-mode transmission includes employing a closed-loop speed control system to determine torque commands for physical torque actuators including the torque machines. The closed-loop speed control system includes employing a virtual torque actuator control scheme to generate torque commands for the physical torque actuators responsive to output commands for a plurality of virtual torque actuators. | 12-05-2013 |
20130325185 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DETERMINING ENGINE PULSE CANCELLATION TORQUE - A method for controlling operation of an electro-mechanical transmission configured to transfer torque among an input member, a plurality of torque machines and an output member includes determining an engine pulse torque, calculating a first motor torque pulse command based upon a first transfer function between the engine pulse torque and a torque command for a first torque machine and the engine pulse torque, calculating a second motor torque pulse command based upon a second transfer function between the engine pulse torque and a torque command for a second torque machine and the engine pulse torque, and controlling the first torque machine in response to the first motor torque pulse command and controlling the second torque machine in response to the second motor torque pulse command. | 12-05-2013 |
20130332037 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR OPERATING A MULTI-MODE TRANSMISSION SYSTEM UNDER DYNAMIC CONDITIONS - A method for controlling a multi-mode transmission system employing torque machines under dynamic operating conditions includes calculating a phase shift between a control parameter of one of the torque machines and a response parameter of the multi-mode transmission system under dynamic operating conditions, comparing the calculated phase shift and an expected phase shift, and executing remedial action when the calculated phase shift exceeds a threshold associated with the expected phase shift. | 12-12-2013 |
20130338861 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLING A POWERTRAIN SYSTEM INCLUDING A MULTI-MODE TRANSMISSION - A powertrain including an engine and torque machines is configured to transfer torque through a multi-mode transmission to an output member. A method for controlling the powertrain includes employing a closed-loop speed control system to control torque commands for the torque machines in response to a desired input speed. Upon approaching a power limit of a power storage device transferring power to the torque machines, power limited torque commands are determined for the torque machines in response to the power limit and the closed-loop speed control system is employed to determine an engine torque command in response to the desired input speed and the power limited torque commands for the torque machines. | 12-19-2013 |
20140350803 | STATE TRANSITION CONTROL FOR A MULTI-MODE HYBRID POWERTRAIN - A powertrain includes a controller and gear sets, clutches, rotatable members, and torque actuators, e.g., an engine and one or more motor/generator units. Each torque actuator outputs a total control torque. The total control torque from a given actuator is used to achieve a target value, which is a torque value of a member of one of the gear sets, clutches, or rotatable members. The controller includes proportional-integral (PI) control logic. The total control torque is the sum of proportional and integral torque terms from the PI control logic. The controller detects a predetermined vehicle event, for instance a change in a hybrid range state or a control gain reduction event, and then automatically resets the integral control torque term(s) for the physical target value during the requested vehicle event to thereby maintain the total control torque for the same target value through the execution of the predetermined vehicle event. | 11-27-2014 |
Scott Morris, Portage, MI US
Patent application number | Description | Published |
---|---|---|
20090300365 | Vehicle Diagnostic System Security with Memory Card - A method and system are provided to authenticate a software stored on a computing device such as vehicle diagnostic tool. The system generates and stores encrypted information such as a memory media and the media access control address of the vehicle diagnostic tool. The encrypted information can be sent to an authentication server which returns encrypted authentication information that is used to validate the software for a period of time. | 12-03-2009 |
Sue Morris, Dexter, MI US
Patent application number | Description | Published |
---|---|---|
20150305467 | HAIR CURLING APPARATUS WITH A FLATTENED CURLING SECTION - A curling device is disclosed for styling hair. The device includes a flattened curling section configured to create a zig-zag pattern in the hair being treated. In one embodiment the device includes a perm-rod with a rectangular cross section. In one embodiment the device includes a curling iron including a flat heating element within the flattened curling section. In one embodiment the device includes a flat iron curling device providing a flattened curling section in order that a flat iron can be applied to the hair. | 10-29-2015 |
Timothy A. Morris, Alto, MI US
Wayne Stuart Morris, Walled Lake, MI US
Patent application number | Description | Published |
---|---|---|
20110061846 | Method of producing a very light weight finned tube heat exchanger - A method and apparatus for producing a finned tube comprises the step of securing a tube to a tube clamping device. The method also comprises the step of arranging a plurality of cutters within the cutter head, wherein the cutters rotate with the cutter head. The method also comprises a step of moving the cutter heads into position around the tube and rotating the cutters around an outside surface of the tube in order to cut fins, via the removal of material, into the outside surface of the tube. The removal of the material also will allow for a very thin inner wall to be arranged underneath the fins being cut therein. This methodology will allow for a very light weight, thermally efficient finned tube to be used to produce a heat exchanger for use in turbine engines or the like. | 03-17-2011 |
Wesley Grant Morris, Dearborn, MI US
Patent application number | Description | Published |
---|---|---|
20150014610 | SECURING A JACK AND A SPARE WHEEL TO A VEHICLE - A vehicle includes a spare wheel, a jack and a jack wrench. The jack and a jack wrench are provided to raise the vehicle to allow a user to remove a damaged wheel and replace it with the spare wheel. The jack and jack wrench are secured to the vehicle via a first connector. The spare wheel is then secured to the first connector via a second connector. The second connector extends through the spare wheel and into the first connector to secure the spare wheel to the first connector and thus to the vehicle. | 01-15-2015 |
William Morris, Beverly Hills, MI US
Patent application number | Description | Published |
---|---|---|
20140283543 | VEHICLE HVAC SYSTEM WITH LOWER MOUNTED BLOWER UNIT - A heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system for a vehicle may include a blower unit, an evaporator unit, and a conditioning unit. The blower unit includes a fan that draws in air into the HVAC system. The evaporator unit is downstream from the blower unit, and the air drawn in by the fan flows through an evaporator of the evaporator unit. The conditioning unit is downstream from the evaporator unit. The blower unit is disposed below the conditioning unit. | 09-25-2014 |
William Morris, Farmington Hills, MI US
Patent application number | Description | Published |
---|---|---|
20120247710 | MULTI-BLOWER HVAC LAYOUT FOR IMPROVED EVAPORATOR PERFORMANCE - A climate control system of a vehicle includes an evaporator, a first blower, and a first blower passageway that receives air blown from the first blower. The system also includes a second blower and a second blower passageway that receives air blown from the second blower and that is fluidly independent of the first blower passageway. The system further includes a ducting assembly defining a common passageway that receives air from both the first and second blower passageways. The first and second blowers are configured to operate in parallel to deliver air to the common passage and across the evaporator. | 10-04-2012 |
20120247714 | VARIABLE EVAPORATOR OUTLET AIR PRESSURE DISTRIBUTION - A climate control system for a vehicle having a plurality of modes includes an evaporator having a downstream face. The system also includes at least one blower that blows air across the evaporator. The air downstream of the blower has a pressure distribution defined generally along the downstream face. The pressure distribution along the downstream face is variable depending on which of the plurality of modes the climate control system is currently set. | 10-04-2012 |
20120252341 | HVAC CONTROL FOR MULTI-BLOWER UNIT - A climate control system includes ducts and a blocking member that regulates airflow through the ducts. An evaporator is disposed within the ducting assembly. The system also includes first and second blowers that blow air across the evaporator into the ducts. Additionally, the system includes a controller that determines a first target airflow to be delivered to a first cabin area, a second target airflow to be delivered to a second cabin area, a total target airflow, and a position for the blocking member. A first percentage of the total target airflow to be delivered by the first blower is defined according to the first target airflow, the second target airflow, and the total target airflow. Moreover, the controller controls the first blower to provide the first percentage of the total target airflow and controls the blocking member to move to the determined one of the plurality of positions. | 10-04-2012 |
William S. Morris, Portage, MI US
Patent application number | Description | Published |
---|---|---|
20100292890 | Vehicle Rules Engine - A system and method for generating custom rules to detect desired conditions of a vehicle and customize the information returned when the desired conditions are met. The system includes an authoring device having an authoring tool to author the custom vehicle retrieval rules. The authoring device communicates with the vehicle rules engine in the vehicle or optionally communicates with a client device that then communicates with the vehicle rules engine. | 11-18-2010 |