Abstract: A distributed motor drive system includes a power management module and multiple inverter modules integrated with the motors and located on a machine or process remote from the power management module. The power management module distributes DC voltage and command signals to each of the inverters, where the DC voltage is distributed between modules via a DC link cable. The integrated inverters execute switching routines to convert the DC voltage to an AC voltage suitable for controlling the motor. Each of the power management module and the inverters includes a portion of the DC bus. The current on the DC link cable is monitored and general bus utilization as well as overload conditions are reported.

Abstract: A distributed motor drive system includes a power management module and multiple inverter modules integrated with the motors and located on a machine or process remote from the power management module. The power management module distributes DC voltage and command signals to each of the inverters, where the DC voltage is distributed between modules via a DC link cable. The integrated inverters execute switching routines to convert the DC voltage to an AC voltage suitable for controlling the motor. Each of the power management module and the inverters includes a portion of the DC bus. The current on the DC link cable is monitored and general bus utilization as well as overload conditions are reported.

Abstract: A distributed motor drive system includes a power management module and multiple inverter modules integrated with the motors and located on a machine or process remote from the power management module. The power management module distributes DC voltage and command signals to each of the inverters, where the DC voltage is distributed between modules via a DC link cable. The integrated inverters execute switching routines to convert the DC voltage to an AC voltage suitable for controlling the motor. Each of the power management module and the inverters includes a portion of the DC bus. The current on the DC link cable is monitored and general bus utilization as well as overload conditions are reported.

Abstract: A distributed motor drive system includes a power management module and multiple inverter modules integrated with the motors and located on a machine or process remote from the power management module. The power management module distributes DC voltage and command signals to each of the inverters. The DC voltage is distributed between modules via a DC link cable. The integrated inverters execute switching routines to convert the DC voltage to an AC voltage suitable for controlling the motor. Each of the power management module and the inverters includes a portion of the DC bus capacitance. The distributed motor drive system also includes a link inductance between the power management module and the inverters to limit the amount of reactive current generated by the inverters.

Abstract: A motor controller employs absolute encoder signals to periodically assess the existence of cumulative error in a position signal derived from an incremental encoder signal. In one embodiment the absolute encoder signals are extracted from commutation switches of the motor eliminating the need for a separate absolute encoder.

Abstract: A cutter is disclosed which has geometry which enables it to be fixedly mounted to the end of a cutter drum 1 of the type used in surface excavation. The cutter is comprised of a gusset plate having dual permanent pockets in which replaceable cutter teeth can be mounted. The cutters are intended only to be mounted as the extreme edge cutter on a drum. The gusset plate has geometry such that upon fixing it to the drum skin, the entire gusset, in a preferred embodiment, sits angled toward the outer edge of the drum such that the leading cutter tooth extends beyond the edge of the drum.

Abstract: A motor controller employs absolute encoder signals to periodically assess the existence of cumulative error in a position signal derived from an incremental encoder signal. In one embodiment the absolute encoder signals are extracted from commutation switches of the motor eliminating the need for a separate absolute encoder.

Abstract: Systems and methods for designing and/or diagnosing industrial applications including the use of a simulation of hardware and/or software elements. A correlation component can assess the degree of accuracy with which the simulation represents the operation of the hardware counterparts. A customer assistance system and method whereby a customer can describe a desired industrial application and request a simulative evaluation of the performance of the proposed equipment and software, and receive purchase information, suggested solutions, and diagnostic insight.

Abstract: A system and process for controlling the steering of a track trencher excavation machine includes a multiple mode steering control that performs a plurality of functions depending on a selection of one of a plurality of operational modes. A computer modifies the functions of the multiple mode steering control depending on a selected operational mode, and coordinates propulsion of the track drives of a track trencher to effect steering changes of the track trencher in response to signals produced by the steering control.

Abstract: A system for acquiring and displaying information associated with the operational conditions of a track trencher excavation machine. A plurality of informational messages indicative of one of a plurality of operating conditions of the track trencher are selectively communicated to an operator over a display. Data acquired from a plurality of track trencher sensors is processed and interpreted by a computer to provide status, diagnostic, safety, and instructional messages to an operator in an immediately understandable format.

Abstract: A system and process for operating a track trencher excavation machine includes multiple mode propulsion and steering controls that perform a plurality of functions depending on a selection of one of a plurality of operational modes. A computer modifies the functions of the multiple mode propulsion and steering controls depending on a selected operational mode, and coordinates propulsion of the engine and track drives of a track trencher in response to signals produced by the propulsion and steering controls. A display communicates status, fault, and other information to an operator during track trencher operation. Operator presence within a control area of the track trencher is monitored. Excavation and track trencher operation is interrupted upon detection of an operator leaving the control area. Automatic shutdown of the engine preferably occurs upon detection of one of a plurality of severe anomalous operating conditions.

Abstract: A system and process for controlling propulsion of a track trencher excavation machine includes a multiple mode propulsion control that performs a plurality of functions depending on a selection of one of a plurality of operational modes. A computer modifies the functions of the multiple mode propulsion control depending on a selected operational mode, and coordinates propulsion of the engine and track drives of a track trencher in response to signals produced by the propulsion control.