Abstract: A method for controlling an AC generator includes a first step of varying the duty cycle of a pulse width modulated signal as a function of an output voltage appearing across at least one output winding so as to increase the duty cycle as the output voltage decreases and to decrease the duty cycle as the output voltage increases. A second step controls the current flow within a rotor winding in accordance with the pulse width modulated signal so as to decrease the current flow when the output voltage increases and to increase the current flow when the output voltage decreases. The method further includes the steps of (a) monitoring a current flow through the at least one output winding so as to detect an unloaded condition and, in response to detecting an unloaded condition, (b) delaying a first predetermined period of time; and (c) initiating an idle condition by slowing the speed of the drive engine.

Abstract: A rotor assembly comprising a rotor, starter pawls, and springs. The rotor has a permanent magnet and starter pawl mounting posts. The starter pawls are movably mounted on the posts. The springs are mounted on the posts biasing the starter pawls in first positions. The springs each have a middle section with a retaining section that engages the exterior of the post and hold the spring on the post during assembly of the rotor assembly.

Abstract: A string trimmer with a control system for electric start, throttling, compression release, and engine kill control. An interlock is provided for preventing a start switch from being actuated unless the throttle trigger is fully actuated to a throttle fully open position. An idle setting system and engine kill button is provided at a control section at the throttle trigger. A single control cable is used for throttling, actuation of a compression release system at the engine, and stopping the operation of the engine.

Abstract: A housing for a power tool has an integral molded air channel or duct. The air channel surrounds the flywheel rotor of the power tool engine. The air channel is able to capture air pushed by the spinning flywheel rotor and direct the air directly towards the muffler of the engine. The air mixes with the exhaust gases from the muffler to reduce the temperature of the gases as they leave the housing.

Abstract: An air inlet control system for a carburetor of an internal combustion engine. The system includes a magnet, an air inlet valve, and a temperature controlled limiter. The magnet is used to automatically attract the air inlet valve towards a fully closed position. The temperature controlled limiter limits the range of movement of the air inlet valve based upon the temperature of the engine. The limiter limits the open position of the valve to a position less than fully open when the engine is cold and, limits the closed position of the valve to a position less than fully closed when the engine is hot.

Abstract: A power tool having an engine, a throttle control cable, and an electric starter assembly with a user actuated start switch. The start switch has an over-travel actuator section for moving the throttle control cable an over-travel distance. The throttle control cable is connected to the throttle of the engine by an over-travel actuation member. The over-travel actuation member is adapted to move the throttle and, when the control cable is moved the over-travel distance, actuate a compression release system of the engine.

Abstract: A rotor assembly machine for assembling spring biased starter pawls to a rotor. The machine includes three loaders. A first loader positions a coiled spring around a post of a rotor. A second loader connects the starter pawl onto the post. The third loader moves a first end of the spring into operable biasing engagement with the starter pawl. The machine is substantially entirely automated with various testing stations along the assembly line path. The machine uses various novel methods at the loaders that allow a substantially trouble free automated assembly.