Abstract: A coupling node for regulating the current flow between two or more drives is described. The coupling node may include an interconnect circuit in communication with the drives for selectively opening the connection between the drives. A sensor circuit in communication with the drives measures one or more electrical properties of the drives or between the drives. A sensor circuit actuates the interconnect circuit in response to the measured electrical property of the two or more drives meeting predetermined criteria. In operation, when an electrical property of the drives, such as the current flowing between the drives, meets a predetermined criteria, such as an short circuit or current overload, as indicated by the sensor circuit, the controller actuates the interconnect circuit to open the connection between the drives.

Abstract: A circuit that includes a filter and a DC bus is provided that reduces the potential for failure of a second capacitor of the filter in the event a first capacitor shorts. The filter is electrically connected across the DC bus and includes serially connected capacitors and a capacitor fuse electrically connected in series with the capacitors. The capacitor fuse is adapted to open in the event a first capacitor of the series shorts in order to prevent failure of a second capacitor of the series. In one embodiment of the invention, a static power converter includes a pair of serially connected capacitors having a DC bus fuse serially connected therewith. In another embodiment of the invention, a filter connected across a DC bus includes a plurality of capacitor legs that each include a capacitor fuse serially connected to a plurality of serially connected capacitors.

Abstract: An underwater signaling device 10 provides an enclosure 20 having handle 25 and barrel 21 portions. A trigger 40 is pivotally carried by the handle portion, and provides a pivoting spur 50 which extends into the barrel portion. A hammer 30 is sized for travel within the barrel portion. A primary spring 60, carried within a rearward end portion of the barrel is sized to propel the tip of the hammer into a bell 70 carried by a forward portion of the barrel. A primary spring 60, carried within a rearward end portion of the barrel is sized to propel the tip of the hammer into a bell 70 carried by a forward portion of the barrel. A secondary spring 65, carried within a forward end portion of the barrel is sized to urge the hammer out of contact with the bell after the initial impact, thereby preventing the hammer from damping the vibration of the bell. In operation, the trigger is manually activated, urging the hammer rearwardly, thereby compressing the primary spring.