Abstract: The present invention relates to power distribution systems (e.g. a marine power distribution and propulsion system) that include first and second ac distribution busbars. The first ac distribution busbar will typically be a medium voltage busbar for the propulsion drive systems and the second ac distribution busbar will typically be a low voltage for ships services. A 12-pulse rectifier has its ac terminals electrically connected to the first ac distribution busbar. A multiple output generator has first and second galvanically-isolated stator windings. The first stator winding provides a six-phase ac output and is connected to the first ac distribution busbar. The second stator winding provides a three-phase ac output and is connected to the second ac distribution busbar. The six-phase ac output is phase shifted relative to the three-phase ac output to reduce the problematic coupling of harmonic distortion between the first and second ac distribution busbars.

Abstract: A power distribution system is described that does not rely on a fixed frequency and which therefore allows prime movers to run at different speeds in response to load demand, typically so that fuel consumption and/or harmful exhaust emissions is/are minimised. A marine power distribution and propulsion system can include an ac busbar adapted to carry a variable-frequency ac distribution voltage. A plurality of ac generators are connected to the busbar, each having an associated prime mover such as a diesel engine, turbine etc. A power management controller is adapted to vary the rotational speed of the prime movers with reference to the electrical load on the ac busbar such that the generators provide a variable frequency output during normal operation of the power distribution system. Such operation is to be contrasted with conventional distribution systems which have a fixed frequency.

Abstract: The present invention relates to power distribution systems (e.g. a marine power distribution and propulsion system) that include first and second ac distribution busbars. The first ac distribution busbar will typically be a medium voltage busbar for the propulsion drive systems and the second ac distribution busbar will typically be a low voltage for ships services. A 12-pulse rectifier has its ac terminals electrically connected to the first ac distribution busbar. A multiple output generator has first and second galvanically-isolated stator windings. The first stator winding provides a six-phase ac output and is connected to the first ac distribution busbar. The second stator winding provides a three-phase ac output and is connected to the second ac distribution busbar. The six-phase ac output is phase shifted relative to the three-phase ac output to reduce the problematic coupling of harmonic distortion between the first and second ac distribution busbars.

Abstract: The present invention provides a connector arrangement operative to connect a prime mover driven alternator to an alternating current circuit with an existing alternating current. For example, the connector arrangement may be used to connect an alternator driven by a Stirling engine to an alternating current mains electricity supply. The connector arrangement includes a circuit with an adjustable resonant frequency, adjustable between a first resonant frequency tuned to an initial operating frequency of the prime mover and a second resonant frequency detuned to the initial operating frequency. This adjustable resonant frequency is beneficial as it allows operation to be tailored to the exact operating conditions of the prime mover that is likely to have its own resonant frequency that may vary according to its operating condition.

Abstract: A connector position assurance (CPA) device for use with the latching mechanism of a two-part connector includes a transverse body portion, two spaced, parallel, flexible side arms, and a flexible, generally Z-shaped bottom arm. The bottom arm has a pivot point which causes the distal end of the arm to pivot upon assembly of the connector and consequent flattening of the bottom arm. The rotation of the distal end releases the CPA from a rest position upon complete latching of the components to permit the CPA to move to an engaged position which locks the latch mechanism.

Abstract: An electrical connector consists of a blade terminal and a formed metal receptacle having four independently acting resilient contact beams, housed within a rectangular hood or sleeve, which create four points of electrical contact between the blade and the body. The contact beams deflect and twist to absorb probing forces or blade removal torque, and additionally provide plural high pressure contacts which absorb mating blade angularity. The four points of contact are offset from each other, two on top of the blade and two underneath, providing a stable electrical connector between the blade and the receptacle to thereby eradicate concerns associated with fretting corrosion caused by unstable conditions often created by point or dimple contacts.

Abstract: Electrical connector components, for example, a pin terminal constructed from a solid wire pin and a formed metal body, are attached to a web carrier and fed through an inductive heating station, thereby bonding the components together. The components are pre-treated with a conductive bonding material which can be cured, flowed, or set by applying heat. The web carrier may be wound on a first spool, fed through the inductive heating station, and wound onto a second spool, for ready feed to and from successive production steps. The temperature of the heating operation may be controlled by varying the speed of the web feed and the strength of the inductive field, so as to ensure repeatable, uniform heating, at a high economical speed. In addition, the tip of the pin can be cooled during the heating operation, to prevent heat damage or contamination of the pin.

Abstract: Electrical connector components, for example, a pin terminal constructed from a solid wire pin and a formed metal body, are attached to a web carrier and fed through an inductive heating station, thereby bonding the components together. The components are pre-treated with a conductive bonding material which can be cured, flowed, or set by applying heat. The web carrier may be wound on a first spool, fed through the inductive heating station, and wound onto a second spool, for ready feed to and from successive production steps. The temperature of the heating operation may be controlled by varying the speed of the web feed and the strength of the inductive field, so as to ensure repeatable, uniform heating, at a high economical speed. In addition, the tip of the pin can be cooled during the heating operation, to prevent heat damage or contamination of the pin.

Abstract: An electrical connector having a spring-arm receptacle is surrounded by a hood which is rectangular in cross-section. The hood guides a plug-type terminal tip into the receptacle. The receptacle includes at least one spring arm which is generally convex and defines transverse contact lines which engage opposite surfaces of the terminal tip when it engages the receptacle. At least one arm includes a central portion between the transverse contact lines, which forms a concave spring upon deflection.