Gm Global Technolgoy Operations, Inc.

Allan J Hoffman

Osman D Altan

Edward J Abeska

Scott A Rush

Anthony Gerard Lobaza

Methods and apparatus are provided for estimating the remaining state-of-charge of a non-rechargeable power source, such as a back-up battery for an electronic module normally connected to a primary power source. A processor within the electronic module implements a prediction algorithm, in order to monitor the temperature of the back-up attery, and to calculate various current draws of the back-up battery. The processor adjusts the nominal self-discharge rate of the back-up battery in accordance with the measured temperatures, and calculates an adjusted self-discharge quantity. The processor also accumulates current draw data and reduces the initial state-of-charge value of the back-up battery by the temperature-adjusted self-discharge quantity and the cumulative current draw quantities to determine a remaining state-of-charge of the back-up battery. At a predetermined state-of-charge threshold level, an indicator can be activated to advise a user to replace the back-up battery.

Apparatus and methods for estimating the state-of-charge of a power source

An integrated vehicle communication system for a vehicle includes a telecommunication apparatus in communication with a vehicle data bus. A pre-impact system in also communication with the vehicle data bus, the pre-impact system further providing the telecommunication apparatus with a signal reflective of a determined imminent impact detected thereby. Upon receiving the signal reflective of the determined imminent impact, the telecommunication apparatus initiates a notification to a service provider if the telecommunication apparatus is not in communication with an impact detection system controller in the vehicle.

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Berkley, MI, United States of America

Allan J Hoffman