Braking Patents (Class 318/63)
  • Patent number: 11945315
    Abstract: Techniques are disclosed for systems and methods associated with a powertrain for a micro-mobility fleet vehicle. The fleet vehicle may include at least one drive wheel to provide tractive contact between the flee vehicle and a road surface, an electric motor mechanically coupled to the drive wheel and configured to provide motive force for the fleet vehicle, a brake resistor configured to provide dynamic braking of the motor, and a motor controller electronically coupling the brake resistor to the motor. The motor controller may be configured to control the motive force provided by the motor using the brake resistor. The motor controller may be configured to limit a speed, power, and/or acceleration of the motor using the brake resistor based on an operational environment of, and/or on a directive received by, the fleet vehicle. The brake resistor may provide a relatively wide range of traction control for the fleet vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2024
    Assignee: Lyft, Inc.
    Inventors: Conrad Xavier Murphy, Chen-Yu Lin, Nikola Popov, Simon Roy
  • Patent number: 11465624
    Abstract: A method of cooperatively controlling regenerative braking step by step for a vehicle, such as a rear-wheel-drive environmentally-friendly vehicle, performs a braking mode in accordance with a traveling risk degree determined in advance before initiating braking and changes the selectively performed braking mode by re-determining the traveling risk degree during a braking operation. The method includes: a first step of determining in advance the traveling risk degree before initiating braking; a second step of selectively performing any one of braking modes defined based on the traveling risk degree during braking; a third step of re-determining the traveling risk degree after the second step; and a fourth step of changing the selectively performed braking mode based on the traveling risk degree determined in the third step.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2022
    Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Joung-Hee Lee, Ung-Hee Shin, Gab-Bae Jeon, Jae-Hun Shim
  • Patent number: 11264924
    Abstract: In a motor driving apparatus including an inverter connectable to n motors (n being an integer not less than 2) each including a rotor having a permanent magnet, braking operation is performed on i (i being an integer from 1 to n?1) of the n motors, and then braking operation is performed on j (j being an integer from 1 to n?i) of the n motors other than the i motors. It is possible to reduce the risks of failure of the inverter and demagnetization of the motors due to overcurrent by reducing current flowing through the inverter and the motors when the braking operation is performed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2022
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Inventors: Yuichi Shimizu, Kazunori Hatakeyama, Keisuke Uemura
  • Patent number: 10513265
    Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for operating a driveline of a hybrid vehicle that includes an internal combustion engine, an electric machine, and a transmission are described. In one example, regenerative torque and torque of an electronically controlled differential clutch are adjusted to increase utilization of a vehicle's kinetic energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2019
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Yanan Zhao, Joseph Jay Torres, Ming Lang Kuang, Lucian Lippok, Hai Yu
  • Patent number: 9748874
    Abstract: A motor control device includes DC voltage circuitry which obtains a DC voltage, an inverter which converts the DC voltage obtained by the DC voltage circuitry into an AC voltage that is output to a motor, a voltage detector which detects the DC voltage obtained by the DC voltage circuitry, and regenerative controller circuitry which controls actuation of the regenerative circuit based on the DC voltage detected by the voltage detector. The regenerative controller circuitry waits until a predetermined waiting time period has elapsed and thereafter actuates a regenerative circuit in the DC voltage circuitry, independently of actuation control by second regenerative controller circuitry in a second motor control device that also obtains the DC voltage, after the voltage detector detects that the DC voltage exceeds a predetermined threshold voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2017
    Assignee: KABUSHIKI KAISHA YASKAWA DENKI
    Inventors: Yusuke Oka, Tadashi Okubo, Hiroshi Hashimoto
  • Patent number: 9096144
    Abstract: A power supply and control system for electrically powered shuttle-trains incorporates at least one shuttle train having a motor and a generator. A first plurality of track segments has associated synchronous power modules exchanging power synchronously with a power grid through a plurality of power supply rail segments connectable to the motor or generator. A second plurality of track segments has associated variable frequency power modules exchanging power through a second plurality of power supply rail segments connectable to the motor or generator. Isolation segments separate adjacent power supply rail segments. A control system interconnected to the variable frequency power modules controls the frequency of each variable frequency power module based on the location of the shuttle train.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2015
    Assignee: ADVANCED RAIL ENERGY STORAGE, LLC
    Inventors: William R. Peitzke, Matthew B. Brown
  • Patent number: 9013123
    Abstract: An apparatus for dynamic braking is disclosed. The apparatus includes a first switch connected to a first connection of a dynamic braking resistor and to a first power bus of a motor controller. The apparatus includes a second switch connected to a second connection of the dynamic braking resistor and to a second power bus of the motor controller. The motor controller provides power to and controls a motor. The apparatus includes a switch control module that controls the first and second switches to connect the dynamic braking resistor to the first and second power buses. The switch control module controls the first and second switches in response to a signal from the motor controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Innes, Gregory A Helton, Roger Alan Plemmons
  • Publication number: 20150084552
    Abstract: A system that includes a first data storage element actuated by a first electric motor. The system also includes a second data storage element actuated by a second electric motor. An electrical connector assembly transfers electrical energy from a back electromotive force generated in the first electric motor, by movement of the first data storage element, to the second electric motor to thereby energize the second electric motor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2013
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Inventors: Timothy R. Feldman, John W. Shaw
  • Patent number: 8941338
    Abstract: An electric braking device for printing material processing machines includes at least one electric drive to be braked that is supplied by a power converter in motor operation and is braked by the power converter in generator operation. A control unit switches on a redundant electric braking device in the case of a failure of the power converter by using a switch. The braking device has at least two braking stages, an additional switch for actuation in at least two stages, and at least one brake resistor. In the circuit of the redundant electric braking device, a braking current is measured and the measured value is fed to a comparator for comparing the actual braking current to a desired braking current. A printing press having the braking device is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: Heidlelberger Druckmaschinen AG
    Inventors: Reiner Villhauer, Klaus-Dieter Kleibaumhueter, Josef Reiter, Andreas Schulz
  • Patent number: 8924017
    Abstract: An embodiment of the present invention discloses an apparatus for recyclable absorption of electric retardation energy from a multiple axis industrial robotics system, including a robot control unit and at least one drive unit, which generates the electrical retardation energy at retardation. By an apparatus according to the present invention, the electric retardation energy, which occurs when a drive unit is retarded and is transferred into generator mode, may be recycled by the brake unit of the apparatus, which accelerates a mechanical device connected to the brake unit. The electric retardation energy is thus transferred into kinetic energy that may be stored in mechanical devices. An embodiment of the present invention also refers to a corresponding method for recyclable absorption of electric retardation energy from a multiple axis industrial robotics system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Aros Electronics AB
    Inventors: Jerker Hellström, Magnus Wide
  • Patent number: 8866420
    Abstract: Disclosed is an electric power consumption control system for a factory where a plurality of machine tools (Mi, Mp1, Mp2) are installed. A machine tool (Mi) is provided with a control device (10) whereby either the rotational acceleration/deceleration (Pi) for the motor for the machine tool and/or the rotational speed (Si) thereof is controlled on the basis of information regarding electric power consumption (Wt) in the factory so that electric power consumption will not exceed a specified value (We). This electric power consumption control system is also provided with electric power detection instruments (11, 12, 13) and an electric power monitoring instrument (20) which measure the electric power consumption of all the machine tools installed in the factory, thereby obtaining the electric power consumption of the factory, and provide information regarding the electric power consumption to the control device of the machine tool equipped with the control device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.
    Inventor: Shunji Mishina
  • Patent number: 8606478
    Abstract: A system and a method are provided for controlling a foundation brake of a vehicle having at least one foundation brake device, wherein the usability of the foundation brake is limited to a predetermined total application-time of the foundation brake within a predetermined time interval.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Volvo Lastvagnar AB
    Inventors: Jens Samsioe, Peter Lingman
  • Patent number: 7663336
    Abstract: In a control apparatus for a vehicle having an electric motor for driving the wheels of the vehicle, an electric power source for energizing the electric motor, a motor torque target value calculation unit for controlling the electric power source, and a field current target value calculation unit, the motor field current is momentarily decreased when the difference between the actual motor armature current and the motor armature current target value exceeds a predetermined value or when the wheels are deemed to slip, and the motor field current is increased as the actual armature current of the motor substantially follows the motor armature current target value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Hidekazu Moriki, Shinya Imura, Norikazu Matsuzaki, Kohei Itoh, Masaru Ito
  • Patent number: 7583037
    Abstract: The present invention is a mobile storage unit including an electric motor operably connected to wheels movably supporting the unit, and a motor brake operably connected to the electric motor. A shaft is rotatably mounted to the unit and supports the wheels on which the unit moves, and is engaged with an electric motor. The electric motor operates to rotate the shaft and the wheels to move the unit in the desired direction. Upon deactivation of the motor, the motor brake, which is also engaged with the shaft, operates to prevent any further rotation of the shaft to maintain the mobile storage unit in a specified location regardless of deflection of the surface on which the storage unit is positioned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Assignee: Spacesaver Corporation
    Inventors: Brian P. Bourke, Steven M. Lehmann, Brian R. Nemec
  • Patent number: 7511438
    Abstract: A system and method are provided whereby at least two motors driven by an inverter coupled to a DC bus are configured to alternate between regenerative and injection braking such that at least one motor is placed in regenerative braking mode and at least one motor is placed in motoring mode. Energy is simultaneously placed on and removed from the DC bus in a manner allowing a large current to flow in as many motors as possible, for fast stoppage of load inertia. At least one motor may be placed in regenerative braking mode and at least one motor in DC injection mode, such that energy is simultaneously placed onto and removed from the DC bus, respectively. Further, a single motor may be is alternated between regenerative braking and DC injection braking, such that energy is alternately placed onto and removed from the DC bus, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2009
    Assignee: Reliance Electric Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Michael J. Melfi
  • Patent number: 7498757
    Abstract: A hybrid electric vehicle is capable of transmitting driving forces of an engine and an electric motor to driving wheels through an automatic transmission and of releasing mechanical connection between the engine and the transmission by a clutch. A torque control unit switches between deceleration implemented only by the motor and deceleration by the engine and the motor by controlling the clutch based upon magnitude relation between a required deceleration torque and an upper limit deceleration torque generable by the motor. The required torque and the upper limit deceleration torques become equal to each other when the revolution speed of the motor is predetermined revolution speed. The predetermined revolution speed for the required deceleration torque corresponding to a forward gear related to downshift of the transmission differs from revolution speed that falls in the range of revolution speed fluctuation of the motor at the time of the downshift.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation
    Inventors: Tatsuo Kiuchi, Takashi Kobayashi
  • Patent number: 7486036
    Abstract: When surplus power not charged to an electric storage is generated at the time of regenerative braking of a vehicle, a voltage is generated across first and second neutral points using a zero-voltage vector each of first and second inverters and the generated surplus power is consumed by a resistance connected across the first and second neutral points. The voltage generated across the first and second neutral points is calculated in accordance with the surplus voltage, using a resistance value of the resistance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2009
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Hichirosai Oyobe, Shoichi Sasaki, Makoto Nakamura, Tetsuhiro Ishikawa
  • Publication number: 20080079373
    Abstract: A system and method are provided whereby at least two motors driven by an inverter coupled to a DC bus are configured to alternate between regenerative and injection braking such that at least one motor is placed in regenerative braking mode and at least one motor is placed in motoring mode. Energy is simultaneously placed on and removed from the DC bus in a manner allowing a large current to flow in as many motors as possible, for fast stoppage of load inertia. At least one motor may be placed in regenerative braking mode and at least one motor in DC injection mode, such that energy is simultaneously placed onto and removed from the DC bus, respectively. Further, a single motor may be is alternated between regenerative braking and DC injection braking, such that energy is alternately placed onto and removed from the DC bus, respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2006
    Publication date: April 3, 2008
    Inventor: Michael J. Melfi
  • Patent number: 7285926
    Abstract: A traction control system for controlling an electric traction motor drivingly coupled to a wheel of a tractive vehicle. The traction control system includes means for determining speed of the wheel, means for determining tractive effort of the wheel and a control circuitry for controlling drive signals to the motor based upon the wheel speed and tractive effort.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2007
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Jeremy Thomas McGarry, Somakumar Ramachandra-Panicker, Ajith Kuttannair Kumar, Venkatarao Ryali, Bret Dwayne Worden, Jeffrey Louis Daigle, Paul Kenneth Houpt
  • Patent number: 7216943
    Abstract: A hybrid vehicle is capable of performing regenerative operations of generator-motors disposed adjacently to front wheels and/or rear wheels of the vehicle so as to achieve efficient conversion of kinetic energy of the vehicle into electric energy as much as possible when the vehicle slows down, thereby permitting higher use efficiency of energy. When the vehicle decelerates, a target deceleration force or a target deceleration torque of the vehicle is set, and a permissible maximum value of the braking torque to be imparted to rear wheels from a second generator-motor is set, and the permissible maximum value and the target deceleration torque of the vehicle, whichever is smaller, is set as a target braking torque to be imparted from the second generator-motor to the rear wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2007
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Ryo Nishikawa, Hirokatsu Amanuma, Kazuhisa Yamamoto
  • Patent number: 7157871
    Abstract: Rotation of a capstan motor is detected by a frequency detector, and supplied to a CPU as a rotation detection signal CFG. The CPU derives a period of the rotation detection signal CFG, calculates an average rotational speed of the capstan motor on the basis of the derived period, derives an attenuation value of the rotational speed on the basis of the calculated average speed, and thereby sets a braking time interval. As a result, calculation of the braking time using a highly accurate zero point detection with a frequency detector of one system becomes possible. The apparatus scale can be reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventor: Kazuki Azuma
  • Patent number: 7098616
    Abstract: A control device includes a control module controlling a polarity switching unit connected electrically to a motor unit of a food processor to provide a first current path for an input power signal through the motor unit when the control module is operated in a processing mode, and further controlling the polarity switching unit to provide a second current path for the input power signal through the motor unit when the control module is operated in a braking mode. A power control unit is connected electrically to the motor unit and the control module, and controls the power control unit such that the power control unit reduces an amount of the input power signal that flows through the second current path during a braking period when the control module is operated in the braking mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Assignee: Ya Horng Electronic Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yu-Feng Tsai, Fu-Wen Yu, Chia-Cheng Lin
  • Patent number: 7095188
    Abstract: A serial fan set and rotation speed-matching curve generation method thereof are provided. The serial fan set comprises a rotation speed control module, a first fan and a second fan, in which the rotation speed control module is used to receive the power signal and produce the rotation speed driving signal corresponding to the power signal in accordance with the relations of the rotation speed-matching curve, so that the first fan and the second fan are operated at the matching rotation speed, thus producing the optimum operation efficiency and achieving the purpose of controlling the serial fan set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Assignee: Inventec Corporation
    Inventor: Shu-Ju Lin
  • Patent number: 7023152
    Abstract: A driving control device for an actuator comprises a driving device to drive an actuator having an electric motor (30) and a driving control device (50) to control the rotation of the electric motor (30) by controlling the driving device. The driving control device includes an H bridge circuit constructed by four switching semiconductor elements (Tr1 to Tr4), and rotates the electric motor in normal and reverse directions by turning on and turning off the switching semiconductor elements (Tr1 to Tr4). The driving control device (50) conducts to activate and to stop the electric motor (30) by applying a PWM signal to the switching semiconductor elements (Tr3 and Tr4) constructing the lower arm of the H bridge circuit (51).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: Calsonic Kansei Corporation
    Inventors: Hideki Sunaga, Kaoru Tanaka, Futoshi Araki, Eiji Takahashi
  • Patent number: 7019483
    Abstract: The position-controlled stopping of rotating components of shaftless drive mechanisms, in the case of a loss of voltage, is accomplished by the provision of an external connectable network. That external connectable network supplies the process power which is missing due to a loss of rotational power in the event of a voltage loss.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Assignee: Koenig & Bauer Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Nikolaus Markert
  • Patent number: 6888058
    Abstract: Main speakers are arranged on the enclosure front surface of an electronic piano. Auxiliary speakers (18L, 18R) are arranged on the rear surface of the enclosure. Microphones are arranged in close proximity of the main speakers. A performance sound is regenerated from the main speakers. The regenerated sound from the main speakers is picked up by microphones (20L, 20R). FIR filters are used to generate the reflected signal of a picked-up sound signal from the microphones. The generated reflected sound signal is regenerated from auxiliary speakers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Assignee: Yamaha Corporation
    Inventors: Tomomitsu Urai, Shinichi Sawara, Fukushi Kawakami
  • Patent number: 6580244
    Abstract: Two motors are used to provide motion control in a transport drive system. A primary motor, or a primary and secondary motor, provides primary power for accelerated motion. PWM signals are used to drive the motors according to predetermined fixed functions related to acceleration, deceleration and hold of a load. Alternatively, during onset of large or high speed moves, the primary and secondary motors are on in tandem. During deceleration of a move, the torque provided by the secondary motor is reversed, providing active braking and ensuring the drive train remains loaded wherein backlash is eliminated. During a driver hold phase, the primary and secondary motor push against each other to actively control positioning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2003
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Company
    Inventors: Rick M Tanaka, Christopher M Lesniak, Richard Alan Kelley
  • Patent number: 6552505
    Abstract: A method is provided for driving a motor apparatus having a first motor, a second motor, and a motor power supply commonly used for the first motor and the second motor. The first motor is a brushless motor. An electrical power is supplied from the motor power supply to driving circuits of the first motor and the second motor through a common motor power supply line. The first motor is driven by a direct PWM driving method, and the second motor is driven by a method different from the direct PWM driving method. A reverse regeneration current generated in the first motor is flown to the second motor through the common motor power supply line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Assignee: Sankyo Seiki Mfg. Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hayato Naito
  • Patent number: 6497182
    Abstract: A railroad locomotive includes traction motors for propelling the locomotive, and an isolation switch disposed in signal communication with at least one of the traction motors for isolating a faulting motor from the other traction motors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2002
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Donald J. Melpolder, Michael S. Lupichuk
  • Patent number: 6208096
    Abstract: In a tape transport for recording and/or reproducing signals by means of a recording medium using separate winding motors for driving the winding plates, the drive of the winding motors servo units is constructed as open-loop control devices and/or closed-loop control devices. Such servo units can advantageously be used for open-loop control and/or closed-loop control of the drive of the winding motor even during a braking operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: Deutsche Thomson-Brandt GmbH
    Inventors: Peter Mahr, Klaus Oldermann
  • Patent number: 6118234
    Abstract: A double pole, double throw switching arrangement for effecting dynamic rotor braking of user controlled operation of a reversible direct current servo motor. Two columns of stationary center and oppositely disposed side contacts are disposed in spaced parallel arrangement on the switch base. One side contact in one column is connected to the opposite side contact in the other column and to the B+ supply. The remaining side contacts in each column are connected to a ground strap having a portion disposed for wiping contact. A pair of commonly user actuated moveable contact members are disposed for sliding contact with each column of contacts. The center contact in each column is connected to one end of a separate forward and reverse motor coil. In the neutral position both motor coil contacts are grounded. User movement of the common actuator in one direction simultaneously causes the moveable contact members to keep one motor coil grounded and connect the other motor coil to B+.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Michael T. Marcellus, Anthony J. Novelle, G. Scott Grafer
  • Patent number: 6028403
    Abstract: The present invention provides a downsized vehicle control apparatus which is capable of controlling two DC separately excited motors. An armature of a first motor, an armature of a second motor and an armature chopper element for controlling the drive of the motors which is common to both of those motors are connected in series between the ends of a battery, and a drive circuit turns on/off the common armature chopper element for controlling the drive of the motors and a plurality of field chopper elements for the respective first and second motors to control the armature currents and the field currents in the first and second motors, respectively, thereby driving both of the motors with the desired rotational frequency or torque.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toyoda Jidoshokki Seisakusho
    Inventor: Toshinari Fukatsu
  • Patent number: 5894204
    Abstract: A spindle motor control method stops a spindle motor which rotates in a forward direction in response to a rotation signal. The spindle motor control method includes two steps. First, a brake signal is supplied to the spindle motor for rotating the spindle motor in a reverse direction when stopping the spindle motor which rotates in the forward direction. Second, the rotation signal and the brake signal are put in an OFF state when a frequency generator signal FG, which indicates a rotational phase of the spindle motor and is generated based on an output of the spindle motor, is not detected for a predetermined time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 13, 1999
    Assignee: Fujitsu Limited
    Inventor: Hiroshi Kumita
  • Patent number: 5517093
    Abstract: A locomotive traction motor control system includes a traction motor to propel a locomotive when it motors, and to slow the locomotive when it engages dynamic braking. A resistive element dissipates electrical energy generated during dynamic braking. A control element, operatively coupled to the resistive element, selectively isolates the resistive element from the tractor motor when the locomotive motors. The resistive grid isolation may be accomplished with a pair of isolation switches coupled in series between the traction motor and the resistive element and a controller which opens the isolation switches when the locomotive motors and closes the isolation switches when the locomotive engages dynamic braking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 14, 1996
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Timothy Augustyniak, Bryan M. Gromacki
  • Patent number: 5517092
    Abstract: In a drive arrangement of a motor vehicle in which the wheels of the motor vehicle are driven by separate electric motors and the electric motors are powered via a d.c. voltage intermediate circuit by a generator arrangement driven by an internal combustion engine, the speed of the internal combustion engine and individual wheels is sensed by speed sensing circuits which respond to pulse signals of commutator circuits of the generator arrangement and electric motors. The commutator circuits generate the pulse signals depending on position transmitters which are arranged at the generator arrangement and at the electric motors. In this way, the speeds can be sensed with great accuracy exclusively on the basis of already existing components of the drive arrangement. In particular, the speed sensing means cooperate with an antilock braking system (ABS) and a drive slip regulating system (ASR).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 14, 1996
    Assignee: Mannesmann Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Uwe Adler, Hans-Jurgen Drexl, Dieter Lutz, Franz Nagler, Martin Ochs, Stefan Schiebold, Hans-Joachim Schmidt-Brucken, Wolfgang Thieler, Michael Wagner, Holger Westendorf, Rainer Wychnanek
  • Patent number: 5248922
    Abstract: A motion controller, which is adaptable to a variety of different motors, provides motor control signals to the motors of a multi-axis coordinated system as a function of position and velocity commands from a host computer. The motion controller configures the motor control signals to be compatible to the particular motors being driven based upon motor identification instructions from the host computer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1993
    Assignee: Motion Control Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Saeid Meshkat
  • Patent number: 5210473
    Abstract: The invention is an improvement in an AC adjustable frequency load-moving system of the type having a control circuit providing a motor speed signal and using command ramps to control each of plural AC squirrel cage motors. The invention helps assure substantially equal load sharing by the motors. The improvement includes a dwell circuit which maintains the motor speed reference signal at a synchronizing value at least for a period of time denominated as the dwell time. This permits microprocessors--which may be running asynchronously--to both "read" the same value of motor speed signal even though such value may be read at slightly different instants. Separate inverter units monitor such signal and responsively generate synchronized command ramps to effect load sharing. The invention is suitable for use with a wide variety of plural-motor drive systems and has been found to be particularly suitable for use on crane hoist systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 11, 1993
    Assignee: Harnischfeger Corporation
    Inventor: Jon E. Backstrand
  • Patent number: 5034669
    Abstract: A regenerative control circuit for controlling the regenerative energy of an electric motor drive system includes a regenerative energy dissipating resistor connected in parallel to a main smoothing capacitor through a switching element, a comparator connected to the switching element and adapted to produce an output signal to drive the switching element, a regenerative reference voltage rectifying circuit connected to a 3-phase a.c. power source, a regenerative reference voltage smoothing capacitor connected to the output of the regenerative reference voltage rectifying circuit, and a regenerative circuit including a regeneration transistor for entering a voltage difference, which is created between the main smoothing capacitor and the regenerative reference voltage smoothing capacitor by regenerative energy in certain circumstance, to the comparator. The circuit operates to control the regenerative energy, while maintaining the voltage of the main smoothing capacitor constant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1991
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Akira Sako, Yoji Tsutsumishita
  • Patent number: 4959808
    Abstract: A first acceleration reference value is continuously determined by a nonlinear distance control. In parallel thereto, a second acceleration value is generated by a nonlinear velocity controller. A simple selection criterion that comprises only these two alternative acceleration values engages the second alternative acceleration reference value engagement for run up. The first alternative acceleration reference value initiates the destination braking. The second alternative reference value is used for approaching the destination position. The trip destination and the velocity of the positioning drive can be accommodate inching velocities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 1988
    Date of Patent: September 25, 1990
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Ingemar Neuffer, Christian Keller
  • Patent number: 4697124
    Abstract: An integral series parallel changeover and power dynamic brake controller apparatus for a transit vehicle disclosed. The controller utilizes a single cam shaft to operate switches for the series parallel function and the power brake function. The apparatus includes a cam shaft return spring which is latched out during normal operation. Upon a power failure the spring is released. An escapement mechanism is provided to slow the rotation of the cam shaft upon the spring being released to provide for desirable sequential operation of the power circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1986
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1987
    Assignee: Westinghouse Electric Corp.
    Inventor: William E. Schmitz
  • Patent number: 4600865
    Abstract: Transportation apparatus, such as escalators and moving walks, having controlled stopping characteristics. Deceleration is directly regulated via a deceleration servo loop which provides a current reference signal for an inner current loop. Brake current limiting prior to the controlled stop, as well as mechanically limiting the maximum brake gap, results in faster transient response, and a more linear braking torque versus brake current characteristics. Multiple drive units operate from a common deceleration reference signal, while having independent servo loops each operating from a "local" deceleration signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1984
    Date of Patent: July 15, 1986
    Assignee: Westinghouse Electric Corp.
    Inventor: William R. Caputo
  • Patent number: 4558263
    Abstract: A childs wheeled riding toy of the three wheeled type having a front steerable wheel and a pair of rear motor driven wheels in which the child sits astride of the toy with his feet resting on opposed foot rest positions of the toy is disclosed having a pair of direct current motors, gear reduction coupled in driving relation to respective rear toy wheels and a pair of like storage batteries for powering the motors. A control circuit for selectively energizing the motors includes a switching arrangement for connecting the batteries in series and to the motors for high speed toy operation, and in parallel and to the motors for low speed operation. A second switching arrangement for disconnecting the motors from the batteries and for connecting the motors to a resistive load for dynamic braking is also included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1983
    Date of Patent: December 10, 1985
    Assignee: Pines of America, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy S. Harris, Lawrence R. Harrod
  • Patent number: 4495449
    Abstract: Two separately-excited d-c electric motors are used to drive the wheels of a traction vehicle. The magnitude of motor field current varies as a function of the value of a variable control signal, which value is representative of any deviation of the field current magnitude from a given reference magnitude. When electric braking of the vehicle is desired, the reference magnitude is normally determined by the difference (if any) between the actual rotational speed of the slower motor and a predetermined desired speed, whereby motor field current is varied as necessary to regulate the retard speed of the vehicle. Means is provided for automatically initiating the retard speed regulation mode of operation as the vehicle accelerates and the actual rotational speed of the faster motor approaches the aforesaid desired speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1983
    Date of Patent: January 22, 1985
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Kenneth G. Black, Stuart W. McElhenny
  • Patent number: 4489256
    Abstract: A dynamic braking system is provided for electrically driven wheelchairs to slow the wheelchairs to a stop without needing to use a mechanical brake. A primary switch arrangement is provided for connecting resistors across the right and left wheelchair motors automatically when the switch control is in its off position, either because of purposely positioning the control by the patient or as a consequence of power failure. In addition, a secondary switching system is automatically actuated in response to the primary switching system being moved to its off position to cross connect or short circuit the terminals of the right and left motors to each other only after a given period of time to provide a secondary braking action to the motors and bring the wheelchair to a complete rest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1983
    Date of Patent: December 18, 1984
    Assignee: Everest & Jennings, Inc.
    Inventor: Stephen L. Brodsky
  • Patent number: 4450388
    Abstract: A dynamic braking system for a D.C. traction motor which is driven from an asymmetric bridge rectifier having freewheel diodes to permit circulation of motor generated current. The system employs field reversal to ensure a generated (braking) current direction the same as for motoring and this facility permits injection current braking by phasing up the supply bridges when the motor is braking with full excitation. The brake resistance is in two parts one of which forms an uncontrolled arm of the bridge, this part of the resistance being shunted by a thyristor. Part way through an injection braking process the supply bridge is phased down, the resistance bridge arm shorted out and the supply bridge phased up again. Lower losses and greater braking efficiency result.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: Associated Electrical Industries Limited
    Inventor: John D. Markham
  • Patent number: 4363999
    Abstract: An electric propulsion and braking system which includes a plurality of high-speed, dc commutatorless motors each coupled to a wheel of an automotive vehicle through an associated fixed-ratio mechanical transmission. Each motor includes a field winding, an armature winding, and a commutation circuit for the armature winding. During propulsion, each commutation circuit is enabled and, during braking, each commutation circuit is disabled. Control of the amount of propulsion and braking is afforded by varying the dc source voltage across each commutation circuit and by varying the field current in each field winding. The dc source voltage across each commutation circuit is varied by connecting the commutation circuits and a plurality of main electrical energy sources in selected series, series/parallel, and parallel combinations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1980
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1982
    Inventor: Fritz K. Preikschat
  • Patent number: 4355267
    Abstract: A solid-state motor control apparatus operative with a plurality of series motors to determine the selection of a power mode of operation and a brake mode of operation, and including a plurality of current sensors to establish the current flow in the motor armatures and in the motor fields.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1981
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1982
    Assignee: Westinghouse Electric Corp.
    Inventors: James H. Franz, Jr., Stanley W. Jones
  • Patent number: 4323828
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for use with a motor drive for cancelling the electromagnetic reaction energies developed by a pair of drive motors upon rapid starting or sudden stopping, the latter occurring upon the application of dynamic braking to said motor drive. The apparatus comprises a pair of motors each provided with rotors preferably having moments of inertia which are substantially equal. The output shafts of the motors are operatively connected so as to rotate in opposing directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1979
    Date of Patent: April 6, 1982
    Assignee: Olympus Optical Co. Ltd.
    Inventors: Katumi Terada, Kazuyuki Nemoto
  • Patent number: 4034272
    Abstract: A moving screen display device includes a display web supported on a pair of reels, and a reversible motor to drive each reel. The motors are selectively driven so that if one motor is driving one reel in a take-up direction, the other motor is driven in the same direction at a reduced voltage to relieve stress on its drive train. To stop the web at a desired display position, the driving motor is deenergized, and the other motor is simultaneously driven for a few seconds in a reverse direction at a reduced voltage to counteract the momentum of the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 1975
    Date of Patent: July 5, 1977
    Inventor: John M. Steward
  • Patent number: 4010407
    Abstract: An energy exchanger for a battery driven vehicle comprising two rotatable electrical machines connected on the same shaft, one of high voltage, the other of low voltage. The electrical machines can each be operated in generator or motor modes and the machines are electrically connected together to the battery on a vehicle via an electrical control circuit such that the machines exchange energy between themselves and the battery, both to drive the vehicle by battery drain and to recharge the battery when the vehicle is decelerating. The battery can be recharged from an external power supply via the machines which then operate in generator mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 1975
    Date of Patent: March 1, 1977
    Assignee: Regie Nationale des Usines Renault
    Inventor: Claude Lombard