Abstract: Systems and methods for providing a single power source, multi-output battery charger configured to transition individual batteries coupled to its output from the absorption stage to the float stage independent of other batteries also coupled to its output. The power source may be any suitable power source, such as an AC/DC converter, solar panels, wind generators, alternators, etc. A programmable controller with suitable circuitry is utilized to control a voltage drop across a variable voltage drop blocking device coupled between the output of the power source and a terminal of a rechargeable battery to selectively transition individual batteries coupled to the power source output from the absorption stage to the float stage once they have reached full charge. Using the battery chargers disclosed herein, auxiliary batteries are not subjected to the full absorption voltage for an extended duration after they are charged, thereby reducing the likelihood of undesirable overcharging.
Abstract: An advanced circuit breaker system and method includes first and second terminals to electrically couple the advanced circuit breaker to an electrical circuit. A cam applies a first torque to a rotatable contact arm, having an arm contact electrically coupled to the first terminal, from a first position to a second position of the contact arm and a second torque to the contact arm from the second position to a third position. A bimetal blade, having a blade contact electrically coupled to the second terminal, changes shape when electrical current flowing through it exceeds a threshold for at least a predetermined amount of time. The arm contact maintains contact with the blade contact when the first torque occurs and separates from the blade contact when the second torque occurs. The blade contact changes shape to increase separation from the arm contact if electrical current exceeds at least a certain amount above the threshold.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
August 30, 2001
Date of Patent:
March 25, 2003
Assignee:
Blue Sea Systems
Inventors:
Scott W. Renne, Kevin L. Lacy, Porter Hoagland, Jr.
Abstract: A housing to secure a device to a panel. The housing has a case, a locking ring and a nut. The locking ring has locking protrusions that help to prevent the housing from coming loose from the panel. The case may also have a keyway and the locking ring a corresponding key. The nut may also have detents to engage the locking protrusions on one side of the locking ring.
Type:
Application
Filed:
August 23, 2002
Publication date:
February 27, 2003
Applicant:
Blue Sea Systems
Inventors:
Scott W. Renne, Kevin L. Lacy, Donald P. Aupperle