Abstract: A monitoring and protection system includes monitoring modules configurable with multiple alarm, alert or response parameters. The configuration parameters may be user set to allow for adaptation of the monitoring modules to specific applications. In one implementation, a vibration monitor receives signals from sensors or transducers and derives vibrational data based upon the received signals. The alarm configuration may include multiple levels or limits for various speed or frequency bands.

Abstract: A monitoring and protection system includes monitoring modules that are positioned proximate to locations of interest in a machine system where dynamic operating conditions are monitored. The monitoring modules may be configured to communicate with other modules via an open industrial data exchange protocol. The monitors are also configured to control the operative state of a component such as a relay circuit, either integrated into the monitoring module or provided in a separate relay module. Extremely rapid and versatile response is attained through implementation of a local control loop for control of the state of the relay circuit, which may be complemented by a remote loop that includes a remote monitoring or control system for response to different inputs or conditions.

Abstract: A monitoring and protection system is provided which is highly modular and expandable. The system is based upon individual monitoring modules which may be associated with one another in groups at locations or points along a machine system where dynamic operating conditions are to be monitored and controlled. The individual modules communicate between themselves, and with remote modules, via an open industrial data exchange protocol. The modules are thus freed of the need for a backplane or other backbone for mounting and communications purposes. Any number of modules may be positioned at the points of interest along the machine system, from as few as a single module to a large group of modules, with the entire system being expandable and contractible according to the design needs based upon the open industrial data exchange protocol.

Abstract: A system for monitoring and protection machine systems includes multiple monitoring modules positioned proximate to points of interest in the machine system where dynamic operating conditions are monitored. The monitoring modules, which may communicate with one another via an open industrial data exchange protocol, include user-configurable voting logic for controlling or protecting the machine system based upon the monitored conditions. The logic of the modules is interdependent such that certain of the responses will or will not be taken unless combined conditions occur as defined by the voting logic of multiple modules.

Abstract: A method for interrupting current is provided wherein substantially all current is conveyed through a normal current carrying path in a circuit interrupter. A movable element is displaced for interruption of the current, and a balance is struck between the normal current carrying path and a parallel alternative or transient current carrying path. The transient current carrying path includes at least one variable or controllable resistance element. The transient current carrying path presents a substantially open circuit during normal operation. The variable resistance elements have a lower resistance during initial phases of circuit interruption, favoring transition of all current from the normal current carrying path to the transient path. Thereafter, the variable resistance elements increase in resistivity, producing additional back-EMF to drive the fault current to a zero level and to limit let-through energy.

Abstract: A technique is provided for enhancing performance of a circuit interrupter by deionizing arc plasma developed during an interruption event. A source material is disposed in a secondary current carrying path parallel to a primary current carrying path through the device. Upon movement of a movable contact in the primary current carrying path, current begins to flow through the source material, causing surface ablation of a material which deionizes arc plasma, resulting in greater voltage investment in the arc and more rapid extinction.

Abstract: A technique for securing a conduit box to a housing of an electric motor is disclosed. The technique includes forming a hollow extension from a surface of the conduit box. The conduit box is placed on a motor frame so that the hollow extension is inserted into a hole in the motor frame that passes into the hollow interior of the motor frame. The hollow extension is plastically deformed inside the motor housing to a greater width than the diameter of the hole in the motor housing so that the conduit box cannot be removed from the motor housing. A stator is placed in the motor housing and wiring is routed from the stator to the interior of the wiring box through a passageway formed by the hollow extension.

Abstract: An electrical circuit interrupter includes a primary or normal current carrying path and a transient or alternative current carrying path. The normal current carrying path is established by a movable spanner extending between stationary contacts during normal operation. The transient current carrying path includes at least one variable resistance element which transitions from a lower resistance to a higher resistance during interruption. The transient current carrying path forms an open circuit in parallel with the normal current carrying path during normal operation. Upon interruption, the transient current carrying path is favored for the fault current, completely interrupting the normal current carrying path. The variable resistance elements increase their resistivity during this phase of operation to aid in providing high levels of back-EMF for complete interruption of fault current through the device and limitation of let-through energy.

Abstract: A method for interrupting current is provided wherein substantially all current is conveyed through a first current carrying path in a circuit interrupter. A movable element is displaced for interruption of the current, and current is directed through both the first current carrying path and a second current carrying path in parallel with the first path The second current carrying path includes at least one variable or controllable resistance element. Both current carrying paths conduct current during interruption, with resistance of the paths driving the current to a null level. Current through the first current carrying path may be terminated prior to current through the second path. The variable resistance element draws current into the second current carrying path once an arc in the first path reaches a resistance sufficient to transition a portion of the current to both paths.

Abstract: A technique and system for insulating conductors is provided in which insulating tubes are formed by winding insulating tape on a mandrel, with two or more layers of tape being wound in the same or opposite helical directions. The layers are bonded to one another and multiple tubes are formed in a series which can be nestingly assembled. The tubes are selected based upon the insulation rating desired and the size of a conductor. The tubes are assembled on the conductor and bonded to one another and to the conductor.

Abstract: A sleeve bearing system is provided in which wear is reduced and thrust loading capabilities are offered. An inner ring is secured tightly to a rotating member via a collar. The inner ring forms a plain or sleeve bearing with a bearing set. The bearing set may be supported within a housing designed to be fitted to a machine frame. A thrust extension of the bearing set interfaces with the collar to transmit thrust loading on the rotating member to the bearing set and housing via the inner ring and collar.

Abstract: A seal system is provided for a bearing. The bearing includes a housing having two sides and a bearing element disposed within the housing. The bearing element is disposed to facilitate motion of a rotating shaft. The seal system includes a seal carrier which is adapted to be mounted on the bearing housing. The seal carrier has a groove in an inner periphery wherein a seal is disposed within the seal carrier groove. The seal has a soft flexible lip which contacts the rotating shaft. A groove is formed in an outer periphery of the seal for receiving a retaining device. The seal and the seal carrier are mountable on either side of the bearing even when the two sides experience dissimilar environments such as vacuum on one side and a liquid spray on the other. The seal and/or the seal carrier may be split for facilitating simpler in-field installation.

Abstract: A technique is provided for adapting feedback control system performance to applications involving changing inertial loads. A modified gain profile is applied for a control system block that includes isolated torque scaling. The torque scaling block facilitates the generation of gain profiles specifically adapted to the changing inertial conditions of the load. Dilatory effects of backlash and similar load discontinuity can be avoided, therefore, by appropriately applying gain profiles to reduce gain within a region of reduced load.

Abstract: A dedicated memory object for networked, programmable electrical components is designed to be embedded in the components to receive system and component-specific data. The memory object is preferably resident and includes dedicated blocks for system designation data, component designation data, component location data, and data descriptive of the function of the component. The object may also include dedicated blocks for input and output configuration where interface circuitry is provided in the component. The memory object may be initially programmed via a network and subsequently reprogrammed as the system is modified or designations change. The object may be polled to reconstruct system representations and for monitoring and control operations.

Abstract: A technique for reducing arc retrogression in a circuit interrupter includes providing a source material in a parallel current carrying path in the interrupter. The source material and parallel current carrying path support no current during normal operation. Upon interruption of a primary current carrying path, current flows through the source material, causing surface ablation of material which enhances the dielectric of the arc plasma, permitting more rapid entry of the arc into a dissipating structure such as a splitter plate stack. The source material transitions to a higher resistance level by heating to limit current flow during interruption.

Abstract: A molded polymeric bearing housing is formed of a moldable polymer base material in combination with a glass fiber reinforcing component. A foaming agent is added to the base material to create a fine structural foam within interior regions of the housing. A density gradient is established between regions adjacent to the surfaces of the housing and the internal regions, thereby reducing the need for reinforcing ribs particularly in a base or mounting portion of the housing. An antimicrobial agent may be added to the housing material to inhibit the growth and proliferation of fungi, molds, bacteria, and so forth. Structural features of the housing may be formed subsequent to the molding process, such as by turning operations. Metal inserts may be provided to avoid crushing of regions of the housing, such as by attachment fasteners. The housing forms a mounting base surface in a single plane coextensive with the footprint of the housing.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for electrically connecting a power cable to an explosion-proof electric motor having an electric motor housed within an explosion-proof motor housing. The electric motor has a plurality of motor conductors used to couple power to the electric motor stator. The explosion-proof motor housing has an opening and a connection housing securable to the explosion-proof motor housing to seal the opening. The connection housing has an internal volume to house the slack portions of power cable and motor conductors and the electrical connection formed between the power cable and the motor conductors.

Abstract: A technique is disclosed for removably coupling a shaft and hub to one another. The hub includes a pair of tapered regions near ends of its inner peripheral surface. The shaft may be tapered in a region designed to contact one of the tapered surfaces, or a tapered bushing arrangement may be used on the same end. On an opposite end, a tapered bushing is inserted between the shaft and the hub, and interfaces with the tapered portion of the hub to draw the shaft into tight engagement with the hub, with the bushing wedged between, during assembly. A retaining plate abuts a retaining ring, within the bushing, and a fastener through the retaining plate draws the hub and shaft tightly together during assembly. The retaining plate may receive removal fasteners which urge disengagement of the tapered bushing and shaft for easy and controlled disassembly of the hub and shaft from one another for servicing.

Abstract: A technique is provided for forcing greater voltage investment in an arc developed during interruption of a current carrying path. A source element is provided in a secondary current carrying path parallel to a primary path through the device. Upon interruption of the primary current carrying path, an arc is forced to migrate towards a dissipating structure under the influence of an electromagnetic field. The source material then begins to carry current and undergoes surface ablation, releasing gas which is directed towards the migrating arc. The arc is thus caused to expand further, increasing voltage investment and resulting in more rapid extinction and reduction in let-through energy.

Abstract: A stator assembly for use in an electromechanical machine includes an improved concentric winding arrangement. Groups of concentric coils are alternately inserted from both ends of the stator core. In other words, a first phase group is inserted from one end. The stator core is then rotated 180° for insertion of the second phase group. Next, the stator core is rotated back to its original position for insertion of the third phase group. The alternating process continues until all phase groups have been inserted. Preferably, the winding pattern utilizes a combination of full slots and shared slots, with full slots of different groups of the same phase being adjacent to one another. The invention permits the use of automated winding equipment in large inductions motors where hand insertion was often required in the past.