Abstract: Systems and methods for adjusting outputs of dynamoelectric devices, such as alternators, are provided. The outputs of the dynamoelectric devices may be balanced to facilitate load sharing among the devices. The outputs may be balanced by monitoring field signals associated with the dynamoelectric devices and controlling the field voltages of the devices. The outputs may also be adjusted to supply the load in dissimilar proportions.

Abstract: An improvement to a bridge rectifier assembly of the type used to convert alternating current produced by an motor vehicle alternator into direct current. The bridge rectifier assembly of this type comprises a heat sink, a plurality of pressfit diodes installed in the heat sink, and a plurality of terminals electrically connected to the motor vehicle alternator. The first end of a flexible conductor is mechanically and electrically connected to a conductive connector. The second end of the flexible conductor is mechanically and electrically connected to a lead of one of the plurality of pressfit diodes. The conductive connector is electrically connected to one of the plurality of terminals to complete an electrical connection between the one of the plurality of pressfit diodes and the one of the plurality of terminals.

Abstract: A motor vehicle charging system wherein at least one diode is electrically connected between the rechargeable battery and the voltage regulator. The diode(s) is/are biased to permit current flow from the battery to the voltage regulator. The diode(s) and the battery are arranged so that the diode(s) and the battery experience substantially the same ambient temperature.

Abstract: An apparatus for determining wear in the frictional components of an alternator. Such an apparatus may comprise circuitry configured to count voltage peaks generated by the automotive alternator; circuitry configured to compare the counted voltage peaks against a predetermined standard; and circuitry configured to generate a warning indication when the counted voltage peaks exceeds the predetermined standard. Such an apparatus may comprise comprises circuitry configured to measure a voltage drop across the alternator brushes; circuitry configured to compare the voltage drop against a predetermined voltage drop criterion; and circuitry configured to generate a warning indication if the voltage drop exceeds the predetermined voltage drop criterion.

Abstract: An improvement to a bridge rectifier assembly of the type used to convert alternating current produced by an motor vehicle alternator into direct current. The bridge rectifier assembly of this type comprises a heat sink, a plurality of pressfit diodes installed in the heat sink, and a plurality of terminals electrically connected to the motor vehicle alternator. The first end of a flexible conductor is mechanically and electrically connected to a conductive connector. The second end of the flexible conductor is mechanically and electrically connected to a lead of one of the plurality of pressfit diodes. The conductive connector is electrically connected to one of the plurality of terminals to complete an electrical connection between the one of the plurality of pressfit diodes and the one of the plurality of terminals.

Abstract: An apparatus for determining wear in the frictional components of an alternator. Such an apparatus may comprise circuitry configured to count voltage peaks generated by the automotive alternator; circuitry configured to compare the counted voltage peaks against a predetermined standard; and circuitry configured to generate a warning indication when the counted voltage peaks exceeds the predetermined standard. Such an apparatus may comprise comprises circuitry configured to measure a voltage drop across the alternator brushes; circuitry configured to compare the voltage drop against a predetermined voltage drop criterion; and circuitry configured to generate a warning indication if the voltage drop exceeds the predetermined voltage drop criterion.

Abstract: Systems and methods for adjusting outputs of dynamoelectric devices, such as alternators, are provided. The outputs of the dynamoelectric devices may be balanced to facilitate load sharing among the devices. The outputs may be balanced by monitoring field signals associated with the dynamoelectric devices and controlling the field voltages of the devices. The outputs may also be adjusted to supply the load in dissimilar proportions.