Patents by Inventor Frank E. Acker

Frank E. Acker has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Electric drive for submarines
    Patent number: 4453111
    Abstract: A direct current electric motor marine propulsion system is provided with a pair of shunt wound direct current electric motors which are alternatively connected in a series/parallel circuit configuration. A forward biased diode between the motors in the series circuit, provides for smooth switching characteristics. Fine control of low speed operation is accomplished through the use of a chopper in series with the power source. A contactor connected across the diode provides for reverse current flow during regenerative braking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1982
    Date of Patent: June 5, 1984
    Assignee: Westinghouse Electric Corp.
    Inventor: Frank E. Acker
  • Vehicle control system
    Patent number: 4282465
    Abstract: A control system for an electrically powered vehicle has thyristors acting as choppers and switches in its power circuit. An on-board digital computer provides gating pulses to the thyristors to control traction and auxiliary motors in accordance with programs responding to operator, circuit and vehicle condition signals. The programs provide for vehicle start-up, shutdown, regular operation, limited operation and maintenance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1980
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1981
    Assignee: United States Steel Corporation
    Inventors: Frank E. Acker, Charles D. Rogers