Abstract: Circuits, systems, and methods are disclosed to eliminate the requirement for an external electromechanical contactor. Integrating contactor circuits with a motor controller reduces cost. Additionally, the cost of the contactor circuit may be reduced by providing transistors designed to block current in only one direction in the event of an electrical fault corresponding to an electrical drive direction.

Abstract: Circuits, systems, and methods are disclosed to eliminate the requirement for an external electromechanical contactor. Integrating contactor circuits with a motor controller reduces cost. Additionally, the cost of the contactor circuit may be reduced by providing transistors designed to block current in only one direction in the event of an electrical fault corresponding to an electrical drive direction.

Abstract: Electric motor controllers that dynamically adjust a motor resistance parameter are described. In order to adjust the motor resistance parameter, power is applied the electric motor while the controlled vehicle is stopped and its brake is set so that the vehicle remains stopped while a measurement is taken that can be used to determine motor resistance. A new motor resistance value is then generated based at least in part upon the measurement(s) and the motor resistance parameter is set to the new motor resistance value. The new motor resistance parameter may then be used in the control of the electric motor. In some embodiments, the measurements are taken after the controller receives a brake release request but before actually releasing the brake. The described arrangement can be used in a wide variety of motor controllers and is especially well suited for use in low cost controllers that control motors that are susceptible to wide variations in their resistance such as brushed permanent magnet DC motors.

Abstract: Electric motor controllers that dynamically adjust a motor resistance parameter are described. In order to adjust the motor resistance parameter, power is applied the electric motor while the controlled vehicle is stopped and its brake is set so that the vehicle remains stopped while a measurement is taken that can be used to determine motor resistance. A new motor resistance value is then generated based at least in part upon the measurement(s) and the motor resistance parameter is set to the new motor resistance value. The new motor resistance parameter may then be used in the control of the electric motor. In some embodiments, the measurements are taken after the controller receives a brake release request but before actually releasing the brake. The described arrangement can be used in a wide variety of motor controllers and is especially well suited for use in low cost controllers that control motors that are susceptible to wide variations in their resistance such as brushed permanent magnet DC motors.

Abstract: An LED illumination module for a flashlight has a housing, electronic control circuitry, and one or more LEDs connected in series and to the circuitry. The module is characterized in that the module is shaped to modularly replace an incandescent-bulb in an existing flashlight. In one aspect the control circuitry operates in a dual mode to extend life of the unit, and to warn when battery replacement is warranted.