Abstract: This invention relates generally to a garage door opener. The garage door opener has a user interface and a motor operatively connected to the garage door, at least one sensor, and an integrated motor control circuit. The integrated motor control circuit has a motor control microprocessor and a memory. The memory contains previous operation data. The motor control microprocessor receives data from the user interface, the memory and the sensors to control the motor.

Abstract: A motor includes a rotor core and a stator core disposed about the rotor core. The stator core includes three support portions and at least one end bracket supporting the stator core solely by three mounting portions that are interconnected with a respective support portion. A method of mounting an end shield to a laminated motor stator core is also presented.

Abstract: A low current leakage circuit for power source lines that include a first power line at one potential and a second power line at another potential with respect to the first power line and that carry energy to power a device is provided. The low leakage circuit may include a filter circuit connected in parallel with the device and between the first power line and the second power line. The filter circuit may have a junction in circuit with a local ground and a switch may be connected in series between the junction and the local ground. A method of reducing current leakage in a filter circuit for power source lines carrying energy for powering a device is also provided.

Abstract: A washing machine is provided that includes an induction motor and a motor control circuit with a feedback loop. The feedback loop provides rotor speed to a microprocessor of the motor control circuit. The motor control circuit and feedback loop control the motor such that the motor operates in a negative slip mode which provides braking to the washing machine.

Abstract: A washing machine is provided that includes an induction motor and a motor control circuit with a feedback loop. The feedback loop provides rotor speed to a microprocessor of the motor control circuit. The motor control circuit and feedback loop control the motor such that the motor operates in a reverse frequency mode which provides braking to the washing machine.

Abstract: An integrated controller/motor energized by a power supply includes a controller that has controller circuits and a pair of controller lead lines connectable in circuit between the power supply and the controller circuits. The integrated controller/motor also includes a motor that has a first motor winding and a second motor winding each in circuit with the controller circuits and a thermal overload sensor located in direct proximity to the first motor winding and the second motor winding. The thermal overload sensor may be connected in series with at least one of the controller lead lines. A method of protecting an integrated controller/motor from thermal overload is also presented.

Abstract: A washing machine is provided that includes a motor, an inductive winding device, a motor control unit, and a braking circuit. The motor control unit is in electrical communication with the motor and the inductive winding device. The braking circuit is in electrical communication with the inductive winding device and the motor control unit. The braking circuit dissipates a braking energy from the motor through the inductive winding device and the motor control unit controlling the braking energy so as to avoid activation of the inductive winding device.