Abstract: In an illustrative embodiment, a power converter for starting an AC machine comprises at least one transformer for stepping-up AC source voltages, at least one rectifier for rectifying output voltages from the at least one transformer, a three phase inverter for inverting rectified voltages from the at least one rectifier for providing three phase voltages for starting the AC machine, and a DC to AC converter for converting DC source voltage to AC inverted voltages. The three phase voltages for starting the AC machine are derived from one of the AC and DC source voltages through the at least one transformer and the at least one rectifier.

Abstract: A synchronous generator start converter offers power conversion for performing multiple functions such as starting AC generators as a motor, charging batteries and also providing regulated DC output without degradation of input power quality. The converter utilizes common magnetic components and common semiconductor rectifiers within its three subcircuits. The three subcircuits include flyback converters, a square wave inverter and a field excitation controller.

Abstract: A power converter that can be used either as a start converter or as a variabe speed constant frequency converter is utilized within a stepped waveform VSCF system having engine start capability. Interfacing with the converter are a load bus, a contactor, a field excitation controller and a starter/generator having a main generator, an exciter generator and a permanent magnet generator. Magnetic components and semiconductor components perform multi-functions and minimal degradation of input power quality occurs.

Abstract: A turbine engine start system accepts either AC or DC and performs power conversion for multiple functions such as starting an AC synchronous generator as a synchronous motor without degradation of input power quality and with minimal generation of EMI. The system utilizes common magnetic components and common semiconductor transistors and rectifiers within its four major subcircuits. The four major subcircuits include a transformer rectifier, a boost converter, a voltage source inverter and a field excitation controller.

Abstract: A pulse-width modulated, bi-directional DC-to-DC voltage converter having a regulated output, and capable of converting between a high-potential direct current voltage and a low-potential direct current voltage. The converter's magnetic components, as well as several of its semiconductor rectifiers, perform dual functions (one in the step-up mode, and another in the step-down mode), which serves to minimize the total component count, and allows the converter to be both compact and lightweight. Additionally, as the converter maintains a continuous input current during voltage step-up conversion, the generation of signals which might cause electromagnetic interference is reduced.

Abstract: A bi-directional converter offers power conversion between both 270 volts to 28 volts and 28 volts to 270 volts. The converter utilizes common magnetic components such as a transformer and a filter inductor and dual function built/in diodes across transistors. The converter also utilizes a bridge converter, a push-pull converter, and a boost converter.

Abstract: A pulse-width modulated, bi-directional DC-to-DC voltage converter having a regulated output, and capable of converting between a high-potential direct current voltage and a low-potential direct current voltage. The converter's magnetic components, as well as several of its semiconductor rectifiers, perform dual functions (one in the step-up mode, and another in the step-down mode), which serves to minimize the total component count, and allows the converter to be both compact and lightweight.

Abstract: A generator having a bearing retaining stator includes a housing, a shaft, a rotor, a stator and a bearing. The rotor is connected to the shaft and the stator is inductively coupled to the rotor. The bearing supports the shaft in the housing and is retained in place by the housing and the stator.