General Motors Patents
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General Motors Company designs, builds and sells cars, trucks and automobile parts worldwide. Its main brands include Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet and GMC. Outside of North America, it also markets vehicles under the Holden, Open and Vauxhall. In Asia, subsidiaries also design, manufacture, and market vehicles under the Alpheon, Baojun, Jiefan ang Wuling brands. The company provides automotive financing services through GM Financial.
General Motors Patents by Type
- General Motors Patents Granted: General Motors patents that have been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
- General Motors Patent Applications: General Motors patent applications that are pending before the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
Patent number: 9326087
Abstract: A vehicle system is provided that includes a sound augmentation system with a sound augmentation generator that produces an augmented audio output to drive at least one audio output based on a transfer function and a plurality of audio tuning parameters. The vehicle system also includes a sound augmentation system health monitor that compares a feedback of the augmented audio output to a level of at least one input relative to at least one environmental condition to determine a current performance level of the sound augmentation system. The sound augmentation system health monitor also determines a difference between the current performance level of the sound augmentation system and at least one performance threshold level, and initiates an alert upon determining that the difference is at a predetermined level.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
March 11, 2014
Date of Patent:
April 26, 2016
Assignee:
GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
Inventors:
Frank C. Valeri, Scott M. Reilly
Patent number: 9326088
Abstract: A mobile voice platform for providing a user speech interface to computer-based services includes a mobile device having a processor, communication circuitry that provides access to the computer-based services, an operating system, and one or more applications that are run using the operating system and that utilize one or more of the computer-based services via the communication circuitry.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
September 27, 2012
Date of Patent:
April 26, 2016
Assignee:
GM Global Technology Operations LLC
Inventors:
Denis R. Burke, Danilo Gurovich, Daniel E. Rudman, Keith A. Fry, Shane M. McCutchen, Marco T. Carnevale, Mukesh Gupta
Patent number: 9325026
Abstract: An ion conducting membrane for fuel cell applications includes an ion conducting polymer and a porphyrin-containing compound at least partially dispersed within the ion conducting polymer. The ion conducting membranes exhibit improved performance over membranes not incorporating such porphyrin-containing compounds.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
March 28, 2013
Date of Patent:
April 26, 2016
Assignee:
GM Global Technology Operations LLC
Inventors:
Michael R. Schoeneweiss, Timothy J. Fuller, Frank Coms, Sean M. MacKinnon
Patent number: 9321495
Abstract: A method of assembling a front end assembly of a vehicle is provided. The method includes integrally forming a positioning and reinforcement structure having a relatively rectilinear configuration comprising a top support member, a bottom support member, a first side member and a second side member. The method also includes detachably coupling a first wing structure to the first side member. The method further includes operably mounting a first fender assembly to a first side flange of the first wing structure. The method yet further includes operably coupling a centering bracket proximate the top support member. The method also includes locating and centering the positioning and reinforcement structure to a hood with the centering bracket. The method further includes fixedly securing the positioning and reinforcement structure to a radiator support disposed rearwardly of the positioning and reinforcement structure.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
January 15, 2013
Date of Patent:
April 26, 2016
Assignee:
GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
Inventors:
James M. Townson, Mark L. Felzien, Alexander C. Winter, David R. Galloway, Arthur M. Melander, Christopher C. Cook
Patent number: 9321063
Abstract: A method for a dosing feeder for a viscous medium is disclosed. When the dosing feeder is operated in a system mode, the medium is supplied by means of a pump from a storage container to the dosing feeder. A controller is used to supply the medium to the dosing feeder and dispense the medium from the dosing feeder. When the dosing feeder is operated in a cartridge operating mode, the medium is supplied from the storage container to the dosing feeder separately from a cartridge to the dosing feeder. The controller is used to supply the medium to the dosing feeder and dispense the medium from the dosing feeder.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
September 4, 2014
Date of Patent:
April 26, 2016
Assignee:
GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
Inventor:
Otmar Schmuck
Patent number: 9321435
Abstract: A system for locking a Park device in a transmission in an out-of-Park mode of operation includes a valve body that defines a bore, a solenoid connected to the valve body, a lock feature disposed in the valve body and interconnected with the solenoid, and a servo piston disposed within the bore of the valve body. The servo piston has a detent and the servo piston is interconnected to the Park device and is moveable between a first position and a second position. The detent is radially aligned with the lock feature when the servo piston is in the first position. Activation of the solenoid locks the lock feature into the detent of the servo piston to lock the Park device of the transmission in the no-Park mode.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
November 7, 2012
Date of Patent:
April 26, 2016
Assignee:
GM Global Technology Operations Inc.
Inventors:
Christopher J. Landino, Stephen W. Powell, Todd R. Berger
Patent number: 9321479
Abstract: A power steering waste heat recovery system for a vehicle and method of operating is disclosed. The system may include a power steering system and a waste heat absorption system. The power steering system may include a power steering pump, a liquid-to-liquid heat exchanger located downstream of the power steering pump and configured to allow power steering fluid flow therethrough, and a steering rack operatively engaging the heat exchanger to receive the power steering fluid therefrom. The waste heat absorption system may include an auxiliary heater loop configured to direct a liquid through the heat exchanger; and an automatically controllable heat control valve having an inlet, a first outlet for directing the liquid to bypass the auxiliary heater loop, and a second outlet for directing the liquid through the heat exchanger in the auxiliary heater loop.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
November 28, 2007
Date of Patent:
April 26, 2016
Assignee:
GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
Inventors:
Mukund S. Wankhede, Lee E. Krispin
Patent number: 9321486
Abstract: An understructure for a motor vehicle includes two side members and multiple cross members fastened to the side members in each case via adapters. The adapters each include two identical shells which are each connected at the face end to a cross member and side member and to one another alongside.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
October 2, 2014
Date of Patent:
April 26, 2016
Assignee:
GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
Inventors:
Udo Mildner, Lothar Teske
Patent number: 9322352
Abstract: A system according to the principles of the present disclosure includes a stop-start module and a throttle control module. The stop-start module stops an engine when a driver depresses a brake pedal while an ignition system is on and the engine is idling. The throttle control module selectively opens a throttle valve when fuel injection in the engine is stopped while the ignition system is on based on engine speed and a manifold pressure within an intake manifold. The stop-start module starts the engine when the driver releases the brake pedal.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
May 14, 2012
Date of Patent:
April 26, 2016
Assignee:
GM Global Technology Operations LLC
Inventors:
Halim G. Santoso, Robert Douglas Shafto, James R. Yurgil
Patent number: 9322312
Abstract: In one exemplary embodiment of the invention, a method of regenerating an exhaust gas particulate filter in a vehicle having an internal combustion engine is provided. The method includes determining a soot accumulation in the particulate filter, determining a soot humidity and temperature correction factor, and adjusting, using the soot humidity and temperature correction factor, the soot accumulation to determine a corrected soot accumulation in the particulate filter. The method further includes performing a regeneration of the particulate filter when at least one of the following occurs: the corrected soot accumulation reaches a predetermined threshold, and the corrected soot accumulation indicates a contorted soot mass to flow resistance relationship.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
March 5, 2014
Date of Patent:
April 26, 2016
Assignee:
GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
Inventors:
John A. Catalogna, Rebecca J. Darr, Rahul Mital
Patent number: 9325017
Abstract: One embodiment of the invention includes a method including applying a first ink comprising carbon over a substrate and drying the first ink to form a first electrode layer, applying a second ink including a second catalyst over the first electrode layer and drying the second ink to form a second electrode layer, and applying a third ink comprising an ionomer solution over the second electrode layer and drying the third ink to form an ionomer overcoat.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
July 28, 2009
Date of Patent:
April 26, 2016
Assignee:
GM Global Technology Operations LLC
Inventor:
Matthew M. Fay
Patent number: 9322381
Abstract: A remote start vehicle system for a vehicle is provided. The system includes a remote start requester configured to request that the engine be started. The remote start requester is operable to request that the engine be started when the remote start requester is located outside of the vehicle. A control module is configured to cause the engine to be started upon request from the remote start requester. A sensor assembly is configured to sense a neutral gear state of the transmission, where the neutral gear state indicates whether the transmission is in neutral. The sensor assembly is configured to communicate the neutral gear state to the control module. The control module is configured to prevent the engine from being started if the neutral gear state indicates that the transmission is not in neutral. A method of remotely starting an engine is also provided.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
March 7, 2013
Date of Patent:
April 26, 2016
Assignee:
GM Global Technology Operations Inc.
Inventors:
William L. Cousins, Bradford W. Bur
Patent number: 9322364
Abstract: An intake manifold having an EGR-air flow distributor for distributing the desired air flow and EGR-air mixture through the intake manifold to each cylinder is disclosed. The EGR-air flow distributor includes a set of guide vanes defining plural flow channels in a plenum region of the inlet manifold. The EGR-air flow distributor also includes an EGR tube partially extending into the inlet manifold and having a slot formed therein for introducing EGR into the plenum region at a single location between the engine throttle and the guide vanes.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
July 22, 2013
Date of Patent:
April 26, 2016
Assignee:
GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
Inventors:
Edward J. Keating, Alan W. Hayman, Robert S. McAlpine
Patent number: 9322440
Abstract: A clutch release mechanism for a vehicle powertrain is provided. The clutch release mechanism includes a piston operable to move in an axial direction along a central axis toward and away from a clutch assembly. An actuator bearing is disposed adjacent to the piston. The actuator bearing is configured to be pressed against the clutch assembly by the piston, and the actuator bearing is configured to rotate around the central axis. A plurality of fins is disposed around the actuator bearing and configured to rotate with the actuator bearing about the central axis.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
February 18, 2014
Date of Patent:
April 26, 2016
Assignee:
GM Global Technology Operations Inc.
Inventor:
Greg Alan Weeter
Patent number: 9322471
Abstract: Music-based electronic transmission range selection for a vehicle is provided. A first signal from a first electronic control unit (ECU) is received that is indicative of an initiation of an electronic park function. The first ECU generates a signal when an operator presses an electronic park button on an electronic shift device. A corresponding first audio function is determined from the first signal and is implemented. It is determined whether a second signal from a second ECU is received, which second signal indicates successful engagement of the park function. If it is not received, a second audio function is implemented and, if it has been received, a third audio function is implemented. The second audio function produces sound that is dissonant with respect to the sound produced by the first audio function, and the third audio function produces sound that is consonant with respect to the first audio function.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
July 16, 2013
Date of Patent:
April 26, 2016
Assignee:
GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
Inventor:
Orson S. Wang
Patent number: 9322470
Abstract: A system includes a fluid pump, a hydraulic accumulator, and a controller. The controller calculates a reserve volume of the accumulator as a function of a component volume, leakage in the system, and a displacement of the pump, and executes a control action using the calculated reserve volume. The system may be a vehicle having input clutches and a dual clutch transmission (DCT) having gear forks. In such an embodiment, the accumulator and pump supply fluid pressure to the input clutches and gear forks in response to control signals from the controller. The controller executes a method that includes calculating the reserve volume of the accumulator as a function of a component volume, a volume of leakage in the system, and a displacement of the fluid pump. The method also includes executing a shift of the DCT using the calculated reserve volume.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
July 11, 2014
Date of Patent:
April 26, 2016
Assignee:
GM Global Technology Operations LLC
Inventors:
Steven P. Moorman, Crystal Nassouri
Patent number: 9322324
Abstract: A method for controlling an electrical actuator for a wastegate valve arrangement of an exhaust gas turbocharger in an internal combustion engine is provided. A wastegate is situated in a bypass channel of the exhaust gas turbocharger. The method includes closing or opening the wastegate by the actuator for adjusting the exhaust gas flow routed past the exhaust gas turbocharger via the bypass channel. The wastegate is exposed to a predetermined closing force while it is in a closed state so as to regulate the closing force to a desired value for the closing force as a function of an actual value for the closing force. Computer-readable mediums embodying a computer program product having a program to perform the method are also provided.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
May 21, 2013
Date of Patent:
April 26, 2016
Assignee:
GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
Inventor:
Gerhard Landsmann
Patent number: 9324984
Abstract: A method for forming integral separator-electrodes for a battery. The method comprises providing a continuous electrode sheet having an electrode active material deposited on a current collector. The method includes forming a plurality of individual electrodes from the continuous electrode sheet. Each electrode is formed having a center region and a plurality of edges. A separator coating having a substantially uniform thickness is applied to the center region and the plurality of edges of each electrode. The separator coating layer is larger in size than the electrode active material coated area.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
February 1, 2013
Date of Patent:
April 26, 2016
Assignee:
GM Global Technology Operations LLC
Inventors:
Xiaosong Huang, Hamid G. Kia
Patent number: 9322632
Abstract: A linear position sensor assembly having a magnetic shield minimizes interference (noise) from adjacent electrical and electromagnetic devices, particularly solenoids. The sensor assembly includes a permanent magnet linear contactless displacement (PLCD) sensor comprising a pair of magnetic field sensors which are spaced apart by a member of high magnetic permeability such as a metal bar. The sensors and metal bar are enclosed, i.e., surrounded on three sides, by a cover or shield of high magnetic permeability material such as steel or mu metal, for example. A permanent magnet is disposed in sensed proximity to the sensors and translates with a clutch actuator component. When the clutch actuator component translates axially, the two field sensors provide a signal to associated electronics having high linearity, low noise and no deadband.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
August 31, 2012
Date of Patent:
April 26, 2016
Assignee:
GM Global Technology Operations Inc.
Inventors:
Xinyu Zhou, Moussa Ndiaye, Michael Partridge, Xu Han, Michael McLeod
Patent number: 9325108
Abstract: An electrical connector assembly for an electronic module includes a plug element having a body including at least one terminal receiving section. The at least one terminal receiving section includes at least one locking tab element. At least one rigid bus bar terminal is mounted in the at least one terminal receiving section. The at least one bus bar terminal extends from a first end to a second end through a substantially rigid intermediate portion. The first end includes a locking tab member inter-engaging with the locking tab element and the second end includes a module connector member.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
May 2, 2013
Date of Patent:
April 26, 2016
Assignee:
GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
Inventor:
William T. Ivan
Patent number: 9324981
Abstract: A foldable frame for a battery cell assembly includes a one-piece main body. The main body has a first section, a second section, and a third section. The first section is coupled to each of a second section and a third section with living hinges. The first section is configured to receive a first battery cell. The second section is configured to receive an expansion unit and a second battery cell. The second section folds over the first battery cell. The third section is configured to fold over the second battery cell, thereby securing each of the first battery cell, the expansion unit, and the second battery cell within the foldable frame.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
January 20, 2012
Date of Patent:
April 26, 2016
Assignee:
GM Global Technology Operations LLC
Inventor:
Ulrich Schmieder
Publication number: 20160107606
Abstract: A hood, for example a front hood, for a motor vehicle body is described. The hood includes an outer skin and a stiffening structure covered by the outer skin. The stiffening structure includes a nub plate with a substrate and nubs extending from the substrate under the outer skin made of plastic. A second plate is includes on which apexes of the nubs are fastened.
Type:
Application
Filed:
October 21, 2015
Publication date:
April 21, 2016
Applicant:
GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
Inventors:
Udo MILDNER, Lothar TESKE
Publication number: 20160111721
Abstract: A sulfur-containing electrode with a surface layer comprising voltage responsive material. The electrode is used in a lithium-sulfur or silicon-sulfur battery.
Type:
Application
Filed:
May 7, 2013
Publication date:
April 21, 2016
Applicants:
THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
Inventors:
Qiangfeng Xiao, Mei Cai, Yunfeng Lu, Zheng Chen, Huihui Zhou, Xiaolei Wang
Patent number: 9316278
Abstract: A brake pad life monitoring system can monitor the wear of a brake pad operatively coupled to a rotor. The brake pad life monitoring system includes an erodible, electrically non-conductive covering layer operatively coupled to the brake pad such that wear of the erodible, electrically non-conductive covering layer corresponds to the wear of the brake pad. Further, the brake pad life monitoring system includes an electrical circuit having a circuit path from a power supply to a ground. The electrical circuit is at least partially disposed on the erodible, electrically non-conductive covering layer and includes a first resistor connected in series with the power supply and a second resistor electrically connected in parallel with the power supply. The brake pad life monitoring system additionally includes a measuring device electrically connected to the electrical circuit.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
December 2, 2013
Date of Patent:
April 19, 2016
Assignee:
GM Global Technology Operations LLC
Inventors:
Joseph K. Moore, Mauricio Vazquez Camarena, Stacey M. Blundell, Paul S. Shaub, Phanu Amatyakul
Patent number: 9316308
Abstract: A transmission assembly for a vehicle includes a transmission and a controller. The transmission includes an input member, at least one clutch and gear set, and an output member. The input member receives an input torque from an engine. The output member receives an output torque from the clutch and gear set(s). The clutch and gear set(s) connect to the input member and establish a plurality of operating states including a neutral idle (NI) state. A designated NI clutch is selectively actuated to enter the NI state when the transmission is in a drive state and the vehicle is stationary. The controller calculates a reference slip error as a function of engine and turbine speed, and detects when the designated NI clutch is exhausting fluid while operating in the NI state using a function of the reference slip error. A control action executes when the exhausting NI clutch is detected.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
October 17, 2014
Date of Patent:
April 19, 2016
Assignee:
GM Global Technology Operations LLC
Inventors:
Ronald F. Lochocki, Jr., Sindu Sebastian, Min K. Kim
Patent number: 9316212
Abstract: An actuation assembly adapted for driving a load and protecting against overloading and overheating conditions, includes an actuator defining a stroke when exposed to an activation signal, and further includes a protection device comprising a superelastic shape memory alloy element connected in series to and cooperatively configured with the actuator, and operable to both produce a secondary work output path for the actuator and discontinue the signal.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
October 26, 2012
Date of Patent:
April 19, 2016
Assignee:
GM Global Technology Operations LLC
Inventors:
Alan L. Browne, Nancy L. Johnson
Patent number: 9316276
Abstract: A number of variations may include a brake disc may include a hub portion and a cheek portion. The hub portion may include a receiving flange for mechanically engaging the cheek portion. The cheek portion may include an upper cheek and a lower cheek connected and separated by a web, and an inner flange extending radially inward from the upper cheek to mechanically engage and communicate with the receiving flange of the hub portion such that the hub portion and the cheek portion form a single brake disc. The inner flange may include a at least one spline tooth circumferentially arranged around the inner flange and constructed and arranged to facilitate the mechanical engagement of the receiving flange and the inner flange.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
December 16, 2013
Date of Patent:
April 19, 2016
Assignee:
GM Global Technology Operations LLC
Inventors:
Richard M. Kleber, Tomasz Warzecha, Silviu A. Pepescu, Mark T. Riefe
Patent number: 9315090
Abstract: A ventilation arrangement includes a console with a surface in which a receptacle is formed. An air outlet is moveably mounted on the console for movement between an opening and a closing position. In the opening position the air outlet protrudes from the receptacle and in the closing position is at least partially flush-mounted in the receptacle. Air guiding elements guide air flowing out of an airflow opening of the air outlet. The air guiding elements are at least partially displaceably mounted on a support structure of the air outlet between an opening and a closing position. The air guiding elements in the opening position are displaceable into working positions in which adjacent air guiding elements have a larger intermediate spacing, and in the closing position into rest positions wherein the elements have a smaller intermediate spacing than in the working positions or lie on one another.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
April 27, 2012
Date of Patent:
April 19, 2016
Assignee:
GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
Inventor:
Marten Wittorf
Patent number: 9316151
Abstract: A crankshaft for a V8 engine includes first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh and eighth crank pins defined on the crankshaft. The second crank pin is rotationally offset from the first crank pin, the third crank pin is rotationally offset from the first and second crank pins, the fourth crank pin is rotationally offset from the first, second and third crank pins, the fifth crank pin is rotationally offset from the first, second, third and fourth crank pins, and the sixth pin is rotationally offset from the first, second, third, fourth and fifth crank pins. The seventh crank pin is rotationally aligned with the first crank pin and the eighth crank pin is rotationally aligned with the second crank pin.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
February 18, 2011
Date of Patent:
April 19, 2016
Assignee:
GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
Inventors:
Edward J. Keating, Robert S. McAlpine, Akram R. Zahdeh, Hatem Zakaria Orban
Patent number: 9315153
Abstract: A vehicle door assembly includes a door having a window and a mirror assembly. The mirror assembly includes a housing defining a cavity having an opening. A mirror is mounted with respect to the housing, disposed within the cavity, and has a reflective surface that is visible through the opening. The housing is mounted with respect to the door such that the housing is selectively movable between an extended position, in which the opening of the cavity is unobstructed, and a retracted position, in which the opening of the cavity is obstructed by the window.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
August 8, 2013
Date of Patent:
April 19, 2016
Assignee:
GM Global Technology Operations LLC
Inventor:
Charles H. Heard
Patent number: 9315221
Abstract: A vehicle includes a vehicle body and a storage compartment defined by the vehicle body and having a storage compartment length. The vehicle also includes a tailgate operatively connected to the vehicle body and configured to selectively expand and restrict access to the storage compartment. The vehicle additionally includes a pivotable section configured to selectively retract into and deploy out of the tailgate. In the state when the pivotable section is deployed out of the tailgate and when the tailgate restricts access to the storage compartment, the pivotable section operates to reduce aerodynamic drag on the vehicle body. Also, when the pivotable section is deployed out of the tailgate and when the tailgate expands access to the storage compartment, the pivotable section operates as a stop for cargo having a cargo length greater than the storage compartment length.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
March 6, 2015
Date of Patent:
April 19, 2016
Assignee:
GM Global TEchnology Operations LLC
Inventor:
Scott C. Anderson
Patent number: 9315164
Abstract: A system for integration and communication of aftermarket vehicle components with existing vehicle components through methods comprising an apparatus receiving an input signal comprising a raw data set, and engaging a processor configured to execute computer-executable instructions and communicate with an existing motion control system. The methods also include the apparatus communicating, or alternately generating, a vehicle identification sequence derived from the vehicle identification data set. Finally, the methods include the apparatus communicating a calibration data set comprising computer-executable instructions including a vehicle calibration sequence, executing the vehicle identification sequence, and executing the vehicle calibration sequence.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
July 30, 2014
Date of Patent:
April 19, 2016
Assignee:
GM Global Technology Operations LLC
Inventors:
Donald K. Grimm, Wende Zhang
Patent number: 9316166
Abstract: A system according to the principles of the present disclosure includes an engine speed module and a valve control module. The engine speed module determines a speed of an engine based on a position of a crankshaft. The valve control module selectively adjusts an operating frequency of a purge valve based on the engine speed.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
March 15, 2013
Date of Patent:
April 19, 2016
Assignee:
GM Global Technology Operations LLC
Inventors:
Jon C. Miller, Scott Jeffrey, David Edward Prout
Patent number: 9315321
Abstract: A support system includes a support, a root magnet, an object, and a cover magnet. The root magnet is fixedly attached to the support. The cover magnet is fixedly attached to the object. The root magnet and the cover magnet are configured to be magnetically attracted to one another such that the object is magnetically attached to the support when the root magnet and the cover magnet are aligned with one another in an attachment arrangement. The root magnet and the cover magnet are configured to magnetically repel one another such that the object is detached from the support when the root magnet and the cover magnet are unaligned with one another in a detachment arrangement.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
June 3, 2013
Date of Patent:
April 19, 2016
Assignee:
GM Global Technology Operations LLC
Inventors:
Alan L. Browne, Nancy L. Johnson, Nilesh D. Mankame, Albert H. Butlin, Jr., Roland Menassa
Patent number: 9316132
Abstract: A system includes a user interface module, a level determination module, and a level storage module. The user interface module outputs an oil level request based on user input. The level determination module determines N oil levels of an engine. N is an integer greater than one. The level storage module stores the N oil levels and outputs one of the N oil levels in response to the oil level request.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
April 8, 2011
Date of Patent:
April 19, 2016
Assignee:
GM Global Technology Operations LLC
Inventor:
Mike M. Mc Donald
Patent number: 9316186
Abstract: A number of variations may include a product including an intake system to provide air to an engine, the intake system including an inlet manifold to provide an air flow pathway to an inlet port; wherein the inlet manifold includes a false floor at least partially defining a plenum, the plenum at least partially separated from a sump, the sump at least partially defined in a lower portion of the inlet manifold; and wherein the sump includes a heat source.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
April 9, 2014
Date of Patent:
April 19, 2016
Assignee:
GM Global Technology Operations LLC
Inventor:
Robert Lionel Jacques
Patent number: 9316271
Abstract: A vehicle or other system includes hydraulic fluid, an actuatable device such as a clutch that includes a linear actuator, e.g., a clutch piston. The linear actuator is moveable via a pressure from the fluid to actuate the actuatable device. A position sensor measures and outputs a position of the linear actuator as a position signal. A controller is programmed to generate increasing and decreasing position-to-pressure (PTP) curves via measurement of the position, at a predetermined time, in response to a series of respectively increasing and decreasing pressure step commands. The controller adjusts the PTP curves using a calibrated set of offsets, locates a PTP point in a hysteresis range between the adjusted PTP curves, and controls the device using the PTP point. The offsets may include a temperature of the fluid, velocity of the linear actuator, and/or an engine speed.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
July 23, 2014
Date of Patent:
April 19, 2016
Assignee:
GM Global Technology Operations LLC
Inventors:
Steven P. Moorman, Brandon Fell, Mateusz Nowak
Patent number: 9317596
Abstract: A method of automatically developing an ontology for product function and failure mode documentation for an apparatus. The apparatus is identified. A function-flow model is generated for the identified apparatus for identifying a composite structure of the apparatus. Functions and failure modes associated with the identified apparatus are enumerated. Failure data is obtained from a plurality of heterogeneous data sources. A semantic similarity module is applied to the enumerated failures by comparing a plurality of documents between the data sources. The semantic similarity module bridges a variety of terms used in the heterogeneous data to describe a respective failure. Failures associated with the enumerated apparatus functions are extracted from the plurality of documents between heterogeneous data sources. A composite of related terminology is generated for each identified failure mode.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
November 24, 2014
Date of Patent:
April 19, 2016
Assignee:
GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
Inventors:
Joseph A. Donndelinger, John A. Cafeo, Soumen De, Dnyanesh Rajpathak, Prakash M. Peranandam, Kay L. Darden
Patent number: 9318023
Abstract: In a vehicle, an optimal path curvature limited by one or more constraints may be determined. The constraints may be related to lateral jerk and one or more vehicle dynamics constraints. Based on the optimal path curvature, an optimal vehicle path around an object may be determined. The optimal vehicle path may be output to a collision avoidance control system. The collision avoidance control system may cause the vehicle to take a certain path.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
August 31, 2011
Date of Patent:
April 19, 2016
Assignee:
GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
Inventors:
Nikolai K. Moshchuk, Shih-Ken Chen, Chad T. Zagorski, Aamrapali Chatterjee
Patent number: 9316309
Abstract: A method of controlling shifts in a multi-speed transmission includes beginning an initial shift, which changes the transmission from a starting gear to an initial target gear, and executing an adjusted shift, which changes the transmission to an adjusted target gear having higher speed ratio than the initial target gear, when transition conditions are satisfied. The transition conditions include a threshold increase in torque request, which is sufficient to require the transmission to be placed into the adjusted target gear. The transition conditions also include a common controlling clutch, which is partially engaged during the initial shift and the adjusted shift and is an off-going clutch to place the transmission in the adjusted target gear. Executing the adjusted shift does not include placing the transmission in a neutral mode. Furthermore, executing the adjusted shift does not include completing the initial shift.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
December 15, 2014
Date of Patent:
April 19, 2016
Assignee:
GM Global Technology Operations LLC
Inventors:
Harinath Atmaram, William R. Mayhew
Patent number: 9318778
Abstract: System and methods for estimating a temperature of a battery are presented. In some embodiments, a method of estimating a temperature of a battery system may utilize measured battery system temperature data and measured ambient temperature data. Based on the measured temperature data, an average estimated temperature of the battery system may be determined using, at least in part, an extended Kalman filter and an energy balance process model associated with the battery system.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
September 17, 2014
Date of Patent:
April 19, 2016
Assignee:
GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
Inventors:
Michael Wahlstrom, Ciro A. Spigno, Jr., David R. Clark
Patent number: 9316558
Abstract: A system includes an ignition detection module, a pressure sensor, a pressure variation module, and a pressure sensor diagnostic module. The ignition detection module detects when an engine is started. The pressure sensor generates a first pressure signal indicating a first pressure within a fuel system of the engine when the engine is started and when a purge valve of the fuel system is closed. The pressure variation module determines an amount of variation in the first pressure signal over a first period. The pressure sensor diagnostic module determines a state of the pressure sensor based on the amount of variation in the first pressure signal over the first period.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
June 4, 2013
Date of Patent:
April 19, 2016
Assignee:
GM Global Technology Operations LLC
Inventors:
Robert Jackson, John F. Van Gilder
Patent number: 9309823
Abstract: A system and method of operating an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system of a vehicle includes controlling an EGR valve actuable between an EGR enabled position and an EGR disabled position, such that with the EGR valve in the EGR enabled position a portion of exhaust gas emitted from an engine is directed through an EGR cooler for recirculation into the engine, and with the EGR valve in the EGR disabled position the exhaust gas is not recirculated through the engine. An EGR coolant temperature is predicted based on measured engine speed, vehicle speed, outside ambient temperature, and commanded fuel level of the vehicle. The EGR valve is actuated to the EGR disabled position when the predicted EGR coolant temperature is equal or greater than an EGR coolant temperature threshold. The EGR coolant temperature is predicted without direct measurement of engine coolant temperature.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
January 13, 2014
Date of Patent:
April 12, 2016
Assignee:
GM Global Technology Operations LLC
Inventors:
Chad E. Marlett, Kevin J. McKay, Yun Xiao, Steve L Melby
Patent number: 9312702
Abstract: Methods and systems for depowering an automotive battery in a controlled manner. The methods comprise (i) providing a depowering medium comprising one or more non-ionic electric conductors (for example, a carbon conductor) dispersed in a substantially non-ionic aqueous medium; (ii) contacting terminals of the battery with the depowering medium; and (iii) maintaining contact between the depowering medium and terminals for a period of time sufficient to depower the battery. The systems comprise (i) the depowering medium; and (ii) a container configured to receive a battery and the depowering medium such that the battery body is contacted with the depowering medium prior to the terminals.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
December 5, 2012
Date of Patent:
April 12, 2016
Assignee:
GM Global Technology Operations LLC
Inventors:
Tao Wang, Tao Xie, Yan Wu, Xiaosong Huang, Chih-Cheng Hsu, Mahmoud Abd Elhamid
Patent number: 9309824
Abstract: A driver request module determines a driver torque request based on an accelerator pedal position, a first difference between a target engine speed and a transmission input speed, and a second difference between the transmission input speed and a measured engine speed. A request generating module generates first and second torque requests based on the driver torque request. An engine speed control module generates third and fourth torque requests based on a target engine speed and the first and second differences. Based on a mode signal: a first selection module sets a fifth torque request to one of the first and third torque requests; and a second selection module sets a sixth torque request to one of the second and fourth torque requests. An adjusting module selectively adjusts an engine operating parameter based on at least one of the fifth and sixth torque requests.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
December 17, 2012
Date of Patent:
April 12, 2016
Assignee:
GM Global Technology Operations LLC
Inventor:
Krishnendu Kar
Patent number: 9313661
Abstract: A method and system for establishing secure short range wireless communication between devices in a vehicle. The method involves obtaining a vehicle identifier associated with the vehicle and a module identifier associated with a vehicle module. Then, the method determines a secure pin number for the vehicle module and a similar pin for a vehicle telematics unit. Once the secure pin number is determined at both devices then the devices can communicate via short range wireless communication in a secure manner using the secure pin number.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
March 1, 2013
Date of Patent:
April 12, 2016
Assignee:
GM Global Technology Operations LLC
Inventors:
Russ Eling, Kenneth L. Peirce, David P. Pop
Patent number: 9308920
Abstract: A vehicle automates a driver action by controlling vehicle systems according to a rule. The rule includes a trigger event and an automated action. Rules are created or added for use by a vehicle using applications including user-defined rule applications, automatic rule applications, and network applications.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
February 5, 2014
Date of Patent:
April 12, 2016
Assignee:
GM Global Technology Operations LLC
Inventor:
Amir Konigsberg
Patent number: D753567
Type:
Grant
Filed:
September 2, 2014
Date of Patent:
April 12, 2016
Assignee:
GM Global Technology Operations LLC
Inventors:
Robert E. Boniface, Robert J. Munson
Patent number: D754571
Type:
Grant
Filed:
September 2, 2014
Date of Patent:
April 26, 2016
Assignee:
GM Global Technology Operations LLC
Inventors:
Robert E. Boniface, Robert J. Munson
Patent number: D754572
Type:
Grant
Filed:
October 29, 2014
Date of Patent:
April 26, 2016
Assignee:
GM Global Technology Operations LLC
Inventors:
Robert B. McMahan, Brendon C. Mackay, Daniel E. Schmeckpeper