Abstract:
A control system, method and article allows a monitoring module to monitor operation of a main controller in an electric drive, by providing questions and evaluating the accuracy and/or timeliness of responses from the main controller. Upon detection of an excessive number of incorrect or late responses, the monitoring module can shutdown operation, and may provide an alternative communications path, thereby preventing corrupt data from reaching a vehicle network, while providing communications for diagnostic and recovery such as by provision of new software or firmware instructions. The main controller may monitor the operation of the monitoring module, taking appropriate action if a fault is detected. Disabling a supply of power to a traction motor may be based on current operating conditions, such as speed.
Abstract:
A cable (1) having a conductor (3), an insulating layer (2) which forms a self-supporting ceramic layer when exposed to elevated temperatures experienced in a fire, and an additional heat transformable layer (4). The additional layer (4) can be another layer which forms a self-supporting ceramic layer when exposed to fire, or it can act as a sacrificial layer which decomposes at or below the temperature that the insulating layer forms a ceramic. The addition layer can enhance the strength of the layers before, during or after the fire, the structural integrity of the insulating layer (2) after the fire, the resistance of the layers to the ingress of water after the fire, or the electrical or thermal resistance of the layers during and after the fire.