Electrical Conditions In Circuit Other Than That Of Generator Being Controlled Patents (Class 322/37)
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Patent number: 7692323Abstract: To shorten a startup interval to reach a synchronizing condition, a phase difference and an amplitude difference between the grid voltage and the stator voltage of one phase of a winding are obtained. The difference in amplitude is decreased prior to or in parallel to synchronizing the stator voltage with the grid voltage. The calculated compensation phase compensation value is used as an initial value for synchronizing at the next synchronizing operation.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 2008Date of Patent: April 6, 2010Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.Inventors: Masaya Ichinose, Motoo Futami, Hiromitsu Sakai
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Patent number: 7688039Abstract: A control device measures a voltage drop across a conductor in a generator to determine and control the total generator output current. A temperature of the conductor is also measured to improve the accuracy. The control device may further improve on the accuracy by compensating for the electrical current through a field coil that may power the generator. The control device may be used in combination with a generator in a vehicle electrical system. Other system parameters may be monitored to improve on the system monitoring, diagnostics, and control. The generator may include a conductor comprising a process-controlled geometric shape.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 2009Date of Patent: March 30, 2010Assignee: C. E. Niehoff & Co.Inventors: Nisvet Basic, Ciaran Patterson, Mahmood Pourkermani
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Patent number: 7688040Abstract: A control device measures a voltage drop across a conductor in a generator to determine and control the total generator output current. A temperature of the conductor is also measured to improve the accuracy. The control device may further improve on the accuracy by compensating for the electrical current through a field coil that may power the generator. The control device may be used in combination with a generator in a vehicle electrical system. Other system parameters may be monitored to improve on the system monitoring, diagnostics, and control. The generator may include a conductor comprising a process-controlled geometric shape.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 2009Date of Patent: March 30, 2010Assignee: C. E. Niehoff & Co.Inventors: Nisvet Basic, Ciaran Patterson, Mahmood Pourkermani
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Patent number: 7679208Abstract: A pitch control apparatus for controlling the pitch value for a wind power generation system includes a generator comparing unit that calculates an error signal based on a difference between a generator measurement signal corresponding with an operation of the power generation system and a generator reference signal, and a reference pitch calculating unit that calculates a reference pitch value using the error signal. The pitch control apparatus further includes a compensation pitch calculating unit that calculates a compensation pitch value using an error value from the wind power generation system and a pitch calculating unit that calculates a pitch value using the reference pitch value and the compensation pitch value. The error value may be any one of a voltage error value from a direct-current capacitor, a voltage error value from a grid connection point, a speed error value from a rotor, and a frequency error value from a grid connection point.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2009Date of Patent: March 16, 2010Assignee: Samsung Heavy Ind. Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hee-Sang Ko, Yun-Tae Kang
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Patent number: 7675187Abstract: A power generation system is provided that includes an internal combustion engine configured to provide rotational mechanical energy. A generator is configured to receive the rotational mechanical energy and generate electrical power in response to the rotational mechanical energy. A fluid medium is provided to the internal combustion engine and to the generator for removing thermal energy from the internal combustion engine and from the generator.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2004Date of Patent: March 9, 2010Assignee: PowerSys, LLCInventors: Edward Woods, Douglas Alan Koeneman
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Patent number: 7646178Abstract: A brushless generator with permanent-magnet multi-pole rotor disks and coreless stator winding disks includes integral electronics to efficiently generate regulated DC current and voltage from shaft input power over a broad speed range. Its power rating is scalable, and it incurs no cogging torque, or friction from gearing. Integral power control electronics includes high-frequency pulse-width-modulated boost regulation, which provides regulated current at requisite voltage over its broad speed range. A main embodiment to produce DC power at widely variable speeds includes signal processing so output power varies according to the third power of speed. A version for use with vertical-axis wind turbines has a relatively large diameter to facilitate a large number of poles. Combined boost-regulation, zero cogging torque, and no gearing, enable a wide speed range, for better power quality and higher wind energy yields.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2009Date of Patent: January 12, 2010Inventor: Richard B. Fradella
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Patent number: 7638984Abstract: A method for the operation of a wind energy plant, with control of a reactive electric variable which is to be provided, wherein a desired value for the reactive electric variable is determined as follows: a first upper and/or a first lower limit value of the grid voltage is defined for the grid voltage, when the real value of the grid voltage exceeds the first upper limit value and/or the real value of the grid voltage falls below the first lower limit value, the desired value of the reactive electric variable is increased or diminished such that the deviation of the real value of the grid voltage from its desired value is counter-acted, wherein the desired value of the reactive electric variable is continuously increased or diminished further over the time, as long as the real value of the grid voltage exceeds the first upper limit value or falls below the first lower limit value.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2008Date of Patent: December 29, 2009Assignee: Nordex Energy GmbHInventors: Mark Jurkat, Kay Richter, Ralf Harder
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Patent number: 7633272Abstract: An electric generator is operated under conditions in which rapid off-loading may occur. A generator control unit (GCU) employs a detector to detect rates of change of output of the generator. In response to a rapid change of output, e.g. an off-loading, an overvoltage protection system is activated. Excess energy stored in an excited winding is directed into an impedance circuit thus precluding overvoltage that may have been produced by the excess energy.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2007Date of Patent: December 15, 2009Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Yuan Yao, Wally A. Malicki, Randy J. Fuller
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Patent number: 7615972Abstract: A control device measures a voltage drop across a conductor in a generator to determine and control the total generator output current. A temperature of the conductor is also measured to improve the accuracy. The control device may further improve on the accuracy by compensating for the electrical current through a field coil that may power the generator. The control device may be used in combination with a generator in a vehicle electrical system. Other system parameters may be monitored to improve on the system monitoring, diagnostics, and control. The generator may include a conductor comprising a process-controlled geometric shape.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2008Date of Patent: November 10, 2009Assignee: C.E. Niehoff & Co.Inventors: Nisvet Basic, Ciaran Patterson, Mahmood Pourkermani
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Patent number: 7605569Abstract: An acquisition circuit for providing a first and a second validation signal based on an alternator output signal has a coupler being adapted for receiving the alternator output signal and for providing a coupling signal having information on the phase of the alternator output signal, the coupler having a capacitive element for coupling the alternator output signal and the coupling signal, the coupler having a resistive element for coupling the coupling signal and a reference signal. The acquisition circuit further has a detector adapted for receiving the coupling signal and for providing the first and second validation signals, wherein the relation between the validation signals is based on the information on the phase of the output signal, wherein the frequency of the alternator output signal is derivable from the validation signals and the validity information is derivable from the relation between the validation signals.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2007Date of Patent: October 20, 2009Assignee: Infineon Technologies AGInventors: Martin Kaltenegger, Alexander Mori
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Patent number: 7602153Abstract: A device for providing a regulated, limited generator excitation current to a generator to acquire a regulated output voltage of the generator, the device including a combiner for weighted combining a first system deviation on the basis of a setpoint voltage and of the regulated output voltage, and a second system deviation on the basis of a predefined current value and of the regulated generator excitation current so as to acquire a combination signal based on the combination of the first system deviation and the second system deviation, a provider for providing a actuating variable on the basis of the combination signal and a regulation specification, and a provider for providing the regulated, limited generator excitation current to the generator on the basis of the actuating variable, so that the regulated output voltage may be provided by the generator.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2006Date of Patent: October 13, 2009Assignee: Infineon Technologies Austria AGInventor: Manfred Steiner
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Patent number: 7598713Abstract: A control device measures a voltage drop across a conductor in a generator to determine and control the total generator output current. A temperature of the conductor is also measured to improve the accuracy. The control device may further improve on the accuracy by compensating for the electrical current through a field coil that may power the generator. The control device may be used in combination with a generator in a vehicle electrical system. Other system parameters may be monitored to improve on the system monitoring, diagnostics, and control. The generator may include a conductor comprising a process-controlled geometric shape.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2008Date of Patent: October 6, 2009Assignee: C.E. Niehoff & Co.Inventors: Nisvet Basic, Ciaran Patterson, Mahmood Pourkermani
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Patent number: 7592785Abstract: A control apparatus for controlling an exciting current of a field winding type dynamo-electric machine having an exciting winding so as to obtain a demanded output thereof comprises an exciting current detecting circuit being configured to detect an exciting current of the field winding type dynamo-electric machine, a rotation speed detecting circuit being configured to detect a rotation speed of a rotor of the field winding type dynamo-electric machine, an output estimating circuit being configured to estimate an output of the field winding type dynamo-electric machine, an exciting current control circuit being configured to correct the exciting current of the field winding type dynamo-electric machine so as to obtain the demanded output and to supply the corrected exciting current to an exciting winding of the field winding type dynamo-electric machine considering a multi-valued functionality of the output of the field winding type dynamo-electric machine with respect to the exciting current.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2007Date of Patent: September 22, 2009Assignees: Denso Corporation, Nippon Soken, Inc.Inventors: Norihito Kimura, Katsunori Tanaka
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Patent number: 7579702Abstract: Disclosed herein is an electric power converting device and power converting method for controlling doubly-fed induction generators, which provides a synchronous generator for generating auxiliary electric power independently of a doubly-fed induction generator so as to generate electricity even in a system power-free environment, a grid-side converter is composed of a three-phase four-wire converter so as to generate a balanced voltage even in an unbalanced load condition and automatically synchronize a stator voltage of a doubly-fed induction generator and a system voltage with each other.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2006Date of Patent: August 25, 2009Assignee: Korea Electrotechnology Research InstituteInventors: Jung-Woo Park, Ki-Wook Lee, Dong-Wook Kim
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Patent number: 7576519Abstract: A control device measures a voltage drop across a conductor in a generator to determine and control the total generator output current. A temperature of the conductor is also measured to improve the accuracy. The control device may further improve on the accuracy by compensating for the electrical current through a field coil that may power the generator. The control device may be used in combination with a generator in a vehicle electrical system. Other system parameters may be monitored to improve on the system monitoring, diagnostics, and control. The generator may include a conductor comprising a process-controlled geometric shape.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2008Date of Patent: August 18, 2009Assignee: C.E. Niehoff & Co.Inventors: Nisvet Basic, Ciaran Patterson, Mahmood Pourkermani
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Patent number: 7573243Abstract: A generator control arrangement for an electrical power generator, the arrangement comprising a controller arranged to regulate output voltage from a generator to a target value, the controller including a voltage comparator for comparing a presented voltage with a desired output voltage, the presented voltage derived in a transfer comparator by combination of a reference voltage value and an error value between a reference electrical current value and a measured electrical current value subject to a processor gain whereby the processor gain can be specifically set at zero to enable control by voltage or the processor gain can be specifically set at greater than zero to enable control by electrical current.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2007Date of Patent: August 11, 2009Assignee: Rolls-Royce plcInventors: David R Trainer, Lihua Hu, Michael P Hirst
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Patent number: 7569944Abstract: A wind power generation system wherein procedure for controlling the blade pitch is changed in accordance with the rate of decrease in the amplitude of the grid voltage, and when over current occurs in the grid-side power converter, the grid-side power converter is brought into the gate-blocked condition whereas the generator-side power converter continues its operation.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 2008Date of Patent: August 4, 2009Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.Inventors: Shinya Oohara, Masaya Ichinose, Motoo Futami, Tadashi Sodeyama
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Publication number: 20090184693Abstract: A generator control system is provided in a vehicle having an engine that drives an electric power generator arranged to selectively provide electric power to an electrical load of the vehicle and to selectively charge a battery of the vehicle. The generator control system includes: a sensor that detects a state of charge (SOC) of the battery; and, a controller that controls a voltage output mode of the generator in response to the SOC detected by the sensor.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 22, 2008Publication date: July 23, 2009Inventors: Richard Owens, Tadashi Fujiwara
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Patent number: 7564224Abstract: In a power-generator control apparatus installed in a power-generator designed to generate an output voltage at an output terminal thereof, a regulating unit regulates the output voltage so that the regulated output voltage is equivalent to a first target value. When a periodic signal with a predetermined frequency is applied from the outside of the power-generator to the output terminal thereof to be superimposed on the output voltage, a regulated voltage changing unit operatively connected to the regulating unit receives the periodic signal, and compares the frequency of the received periodic signal with a predetermined threshold frequency. The regulated voltage changing unit changes the first target value of the regulated output voltage to a second target value upon the frequency of the received periodic signal being higher than the predetermined threshold frequency.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2006Date of Patent: July 21, 2009Assignee: Denso CorporationInventor: Toru Aoyama
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Patent number: 7560908Abstract: A method of switching the operating voltage of a portable generator system includes operating an electrical generator to produce a first electrical signal and connecting a terminal assembly to the electrical generator. The terminal assembly is arranged in a first arrangement to output a second electrical signal at a first voltage. The method also includes operating an auxiliary system in response to the second electrical signal at the first voltage, re-arranging the terminal assembly in a second arrangement to output the second electrical signal at a second voltage, and actuating a switch with a portion of the terminal assembly when the terminal assembly is in the second arrangement. The method further includes re-configuring the auxiliary system in response to the actuation of the switch such that the auxiliary system operates in response to the second electrical signal at the second voltage.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2007Date of Patent: July 14, 2009Assignee: Ingersoll-Rand CompanyInventors: Dale R. Herbstritt, Donald G. Smith
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Patent number: 7560907Abstract: A charging circuit for field devices is disclosed. The circuit has at least three modes and automatically shifts between the modes depending on voltage of the generator. In a first mode, the charging circuit provides voltage regulation. In a second mode, the charging circuit couples the generator directly to en energy storage device. In a third mode, the charging circuit decouples the generator from the storage device. A field device utilizing the charging circuit is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2006Date of Patent: July 14, 2009Assignee: Rosemount Inc.Inventor: Richard L. Nelson
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Patent number: 7557544Abstract: One system of the present application includes an electric power generation device structured to provide an AC electric power output at a target frequency. This device includes: an electric power generator; a sensing arrangement structured to provide samples corresponding to magnitude of the AC electric power output; and a controller including operational logic responsive to the sensing arrangement to calculate a peak amplitude as a function of a waveform period corresponding to the target frequency and two of the samples separated in time by a target duration of 20 to 30 percent of the waveform period and determine a zero crossing of the output from the peak amplitude and the target frequency. The operating logic is further structured to control operation of the device in accordance with the zero crossing.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2007Date of Patent: July 7, 2009Assignee: Cummins Power Generation IP, Inc.Inventors: John E. Heinz, Brian G. Haupt
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Patent number: 7554301Abstract: Generators 12a are for a distributed generation system. A control system 32a receives information about network faults 14a. In normal conditions, the control system 32a controls the field current in the field coils of the generator 12a, to maintain generator output voltage at the rated value. At the onset of fault conditions, the control system 32a changes the manner in which field current is controlled, in order to reduce the fault current put onto the network.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 2007Date of Patent: June 30, 2009Assignee: Rolls-Royce plcInventors: David R Trainer, John J A Cullen, John R Smith
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Patent number: 7550861Abstract: Upon power failure of a commercial power source, an automatic switching device switches to power supply from a hybrid vehicle. An ECU of the vehicle, when receiving a request for generation of a commercial AC voltage, sets an upper-limit power generation amount based on a remaining amount of fuel. The ECU transmits the upper-limit power generation amount via an antenna to an on-premises ECU, while controlling a power generation amount based on the upper-limit power generation amount. The on-premises, when receiving the upper-limit power generation amount, controls the load state such that commercial AC power is supplied firstly to a first load of priority level 1, according to proprieties registered in advance, and such that the amount of the power supplied to the electric loads does not exceed the upper-limit power generation amount.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2005Date of Patent: June 23, 2009Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Hichirosai Oyobe, Tetsuhiro Ishikawa, Yukihiro Minezawa, Hitoshi Sato
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Publication number: 20090146616Abstract: A method for managing a vehicle's electrical power bus and charging system. A current sensor is utilized to measure a current produced by an alternator. The alternator current is controlled in a feedback system such that the current is equal to the amount required for the vehicle loads or, if the battery is being charged, the amount required for the vehicle loads plus the optimum charging current. Alternatively, the method may measure and control the amount of current delivered to and from the battery such that, in a fuel efficiency mode, no current is delivered to the battery.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 10, 2007Publication date: June 11, 2009Inventors: Mathew Ethan Breton, James Raymond Winkelman
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Patent number: 7538522Abstract: This device is A Specially Improved Automotive Replacement Voltage Regulator for use in the automotive components remanufacturing and original equipment alternator product. Particularly this device has additional transient suppression means for the loads; “high side drive” of the rotor field to eliminate corrosion from the low side short condition; full passivation around the monolithic chip; and a monolithic chip that contains both the power and control devices which permits a simplified heat sink for thermal dissipation.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2008Date of Patent: May 26, 2009Assignee: Taditel US, IncInventor: Justin B. Lybbert
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Patent number: 7521905Abstract: Apparatus, systems, and methods are provided for reducing a potentially damaging high voltage fault condition in an alternator system. The apparatus comprises a motor, a rectifier coupled to the motor, an output node coupled to the rectifier, and a switch coupled between the rectifier and the output node, wherein the switch is a normally “on” switch. The system includes the apparatus implemented into a vehicle comprising an engine to drive the apparatus and a battery coupled to the apparatus, wherein the apparatus provides current to the battery. The method includes the steps of providing current from a rectifier of the alternator to a battery coupled to the rectifier and ceasing to provide current to the battery if a damaging event occurs, wherein the ceasing step comprises the step of switching OFF a normally “on” switch coupled between the rectifier and the battery if a damaging event occurs.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2006Date of Patent: April 21, 2009Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.Inventors: Brian Welchko, Gregory S. Smith, James M. Nagashima
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Patent number: 7514906Abstract: An automotive rotary electrical apparatus with less than four switching control elements capable of blocking a field current while preventing breakage of the switching control elements in response to a malfunction in a feeder circuit for a field coil is proposed. First and second switching control elements controlled by first and second control signals, and first and second diode elements are used. The field control circuit switches the first control signal to the on-level signal while keeping the second control signal as the on-level signal, then switches the second control signal to the off-level signal while keeping the first control signal as the on-level signal, and further switches the first control signal to the off-level signal while keeping the second control signal to the off-level signal, when a short-to-power malfunction of the positive terminal or a short-circuit malfunction of the first switching control element occurs in the feeder circuit for the field coil.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2008Date of Patent: April 7, 2009Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric CorporationInventors: Katsuya Tsujimoto, Shogo Matsuoka, Takamasa Asai
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Patent number: 7508172Abstract: A failure detection apparatus for an alternator can detect a short circuit failure of a diode in a full-wave rectifier with high precision by use of a simple circuit structure based on the state of a detection terminal when the alternator generates no electricity. The rectifier circuit has a pair of diodes connected to a positive terminal and a negative terminal, respectively, of a battery. A failure detection circuit has the detection terminal connected to a P terminal or a neutral point of an armature coil, and makes a failure determination in the following manner. When in the non-power generation state of the armature coil, the detection terminal is in a floating or high impedance state, the full-wave rectifier circuit is determined to be normal, whereas when otherwise, the full-wave rectifier circuit is determined to be in a failure.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 2008Date of Patent: March 24, 2009Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric CorporationInventors: Shinji Nishimura, Katsuyuki Sumimoto
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Patent number: 7498777Abstract: The present invention relates to a circuit for producing electricity, the circuit comprising: a first rectifier comprising inputs and an output; a second rectifier comprising inputs and an output, the inputs of the first and second rectifiers being for connection to an alternator so that phases of the alternator are connected in series with the inputs of the first and second rectifiers; at least one switch for short-circuiting the output of the second rectifier or at least a part of the inputs of the second rectifier; and a control unit for controlling the switching of the at least one switch so as to regulate the rectified voltage delivered by the circuit.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2006Date of Patent: March 3, 2009Assignee: Moteurs Leroy-SomerInventor: Christian Andrieux
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Publication number: 20090045783Abstract: An electrical power generator includes a controller for making a full power capacity of the generator available for consumption by at least one intelligent load coupled to an output of the generator. The controller obtains data from which both a present output power of the generator and a power capacity of the generator can be determined. The controller then provides the intelligent load with data indicative of both the present output power and the power capacity of the generator for use by the load in controlling its power consumption.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 24, 2008Publication date: February 19, 2009Applicant: HAMILTON SUNDSTRAND CORPORATIONInventors: Wei Wei Qi, Michael Rubbo, Richard Wainwright
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Patent number: 7489113Abstract: An energy storage system for a motor vehicle is provided, including an electric machine, which can be operated at least as a generator, for generating a generator current; a vehicle electrical system battery, which is connected to the electric machine in parallel; a capacitor unit, which is connected to the electric machine in parallel; and a controller for controlling the electric machine. The controller is configured such that if the vehicle is in the boost or braking operating mode, the battery of the vehicle electrical system is charged with a maximum battery charging current, whereas in all other cases the battery of the vehicle electrical system is charged by a battery charging current that is adjusted as a function of the charge state of the battery of the vehicle electrical system. Therefore, in order to adjust the battery charging current as a function of the charge state of the battery of the vehicle electrical system, three different charge states are considered.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2007Date of Patent: February 10, 2009Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke AktiengesellschaftInventors: Hartmut Proebstle, Thomas Christ, Johannes von Grundherr, Marcus Hafkemeyer, Michael Roesler
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Publication number: 20080309084Abstract: In an electrical power system of a diesel powered system having at least one diesel-fueled power generation unit, the electrical power system having a synchronous machine including a field winding being coupled to the diesel-fueled power generation unit, a battery for selectively providing a starting current during a starting mode of the electrical power system, and an inverter receiving the starting current for driving the synchronous machine and generating an inverter current, a circuit and method for reducing a voltage being developed across the field winding is described. The circuit includes a current conditioner for conditioning the inverter current and a parallel circuit interposed between the inverter and the current conditioner comprising a first branch including a resistance and a second branch including the field winding of the synchronous machine so that the parallel circuit is isolated from a voltage developed across the current conditioner during cranking.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 12, 2007Publication date: December 18, 2008Inventors: Mohan Murugesan, Rajeev Verma, Charles Earl Cooper, Bret Dwayne Worden
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Patent number: 7466109Abstract: An electrical generation system comprising a generator. The generator including, a stator portion, and a rotor portion, and a variable frequency generator (VFG) exciter. The VFG exciter including, a first converter, operative to convert DC current to AC current connected to a DC link and a second converter, operative to convert DC current to AC current connected to the DC link. The system including a first switch operative, when closed, to connect the first converter to the stator portion while the generator is operating in a starting condition, wherein the first switch is open while the generator is operating in a running condition. The system including second switch operative, when closed, to connect the first converter and the second converter in parallel to the rotor portion while the generator is operating in a running condition, wherein the second switch is open while the generator is operating in the starting condition.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2008Date of Patent: December 16, 2008Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Einar Vaughn Larsen, James Michael Fogarty, Cyrus David Harbourt
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Patent number: 7466107Abstract: A control device measures a voltage drop across a conductor in a generator to determine and control the total generator output current. A temperature of the conductor is also measured to improve the accuracy. The control device may further improve on the accuracy by compensating for the electrical current through a field coil that may power the generator. The control device may be used in combination with a generator in a vehicle electrical system. Other system parameters may be monitored to improve on the system monitoring, diagnostics, and control. The generator may include a conductor comprising a process-controlled geometric shape.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2006Date of Patent: December 16, 2008Assignee: C.E. Niehoff & Co.Inventors: Nisvet Basic, Ciaran Patterson, Mahmood Pourkermani
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Patent number: 7466108Abstract: A battery charging control device comprising a control circuit that performs control to keep a voltage across a battery charged by an output of an AC generator around a target value, comprising: a load driving switch inserted between the battery and a load; and a load driving switch control circuit that performs control to turn on the load driving switch when the AC generator generates the output and a voltage across the load is equal to or lower than a set value, and turn off the load driving switch when the voltage across the load exceeds the set value lower than the target value of the voltage across the battery.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2007Date of Patent: December 16, 2008Assignee: Kokusan Denki Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hidetoshi Suzuki, Hirofumi Yamaguchi, Shuichi Muramatsu, Masaki Asari
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Patent number: 7459889Abstract: Conventional electric power generation system employ a solid state electronically controlled IM that may be capable of self-start motoring and power generation, but, when the DC bus voltage collapses upon a failure, an additional external source of DC voltage is not available for IM excitation. The present invention provides an internal bus that does not collapse when the main DC bus is shorted. This internal or auxiliary bus may be used to excite the IM to provide generation function. The power generation systems of the present invention may play a significant role in the modern aerospace and military industries.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2007Date of Patent: December 2, 2008Assignee: Honeywell International, Inc.Inventors: Evgeni Ganev, Leroy A. Fizer
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Patent number: 7456616Abstract: The disclosed apparatus relates to a current sensing electrical energy generation system comprising, an electric machine, a conductor electrically connected to the electric machine, and a current sensor responsive to current flow in the conductor.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2006Date of Patent: November 25, 2008Assignee: Remy Technologies, L.L.C.Inventors: Jack D. Harmon, Michael D. Bradfield
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Patent number: 7446425Abstract: A cooperative control apparatus calculates the total electric load amount of a plurality of electrical loads (W), determines working states of the electrical loads (W), calculates a projected value of the total electrical load amount after a prescribed time, and effects cooperative control of the electrical loads (W) so that the total electrical load amount can be made lower than the threshold value in a case in which the projected value is larger than a threshold value for switching a generation mode of a generator (6) and is in a prescribed range.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2004Date of Patent: November 4, 2008Assignee: Keihin CorporationInventor: Shinichi Sato
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Patent number: 7446426Abstract: An engine speed detector detects an engine speed of an engine having a baseline torque versus engine speed curve. A torque sensor detects an engine torque of the engine. A data processor determines if the detected engine speed is within a first speed range and if the detected engine torque is within a first torque range. A motor controller activates an electric motor to rotate substantially synchronously with a corresponding engine speed associated with the detected engine torque in an electric propulsion mode in accordance with a supplemental torque versus engine speed curve if the detected engine speed is within the first speed range and if the detected engine torque is within the first torque range. The supplemental torque versus engine speed curve intercepts the baseline torque versus engine speed curve at a lower speed point and a higher speed point.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2007Date of Patent: November 4, 2008Assignee: Deere & CompanyInventors: Alan David Sheidler, Brian Joseph Gilmore, Mark Charles DePoorter, Peter Finamore, Duane Herbert Ziegler, Joseph Albert Teijido
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Patent number: 7425818Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2005Date of Patent: September 16, 2008Assignee: Microgen Energy LimitedInventors: Roger Stuart Silcock, Jonathan James Childs, Jarlath Michael McEntee
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Patent number: 7417333Abstract: A method for determining electric currents for an electrical machine includes generating a first real power current demand signal and a first reactive power current demand signal. The method also includes determining at least one of a second real power current demand signal and a second reactive power current demand signal by prioritizing a second real power current demand signal over a second reactive power current demand signal. Alternatively, the method also includes determining at least one of a second real power current demand signal and a second reactive power current demand signal by prioritizing the second reactive power current demand signal over the second real power current demand signal. The method further includes comparing at least one of the first real power current demand signal and first reactive power current demand signal to at least one electrical machine current limit signal.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 2006Date of Patent: August 26, 2008Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Nicholas Wright Miller, Einar Larsen, Robert William Delmerico
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Patent number: 7405543Abstract: In a device for regulating the power output of an electrical generator in motor vehicles having an internal combustion engine, in which the generator has a regulator unit, which prevents exceeding at least one limiting temperature by regulation, the regulator unit is connected via a bidirectional interface to an electronic control unit assigned to the internal combustion engine. The control unit and the regulator unit are designed in such a way that the regulator unit, after transmitting at least one value relevant to the limiting temperature from the control unit to the regulator unit, stores the particular applicable limiting temperature determined by this value.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2007Date of Patent: July 29, 2008Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke AktiengesellschaftInventor: Manfred Schmid
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Patent number: 7405541Abstract: According to the present invention, there is provided a control apparatus for an automotive alternator which includes a switch, a target voltage setter, a voltage regulator, and a disconnection detector. The switch is configured to be selectively turned on and off so as to intermittently excite the alternator. The target voltage setter works to set a target voltage. The voltage regulator works to regulate an output voltage of the alternator to the target voltage through controlling on/off operation the switch. The disconnection detector works to detect disconnection between the alternator and an on-board battery to be charged by the alternator. The disconnection detector is configured to detect the disconnection, when the target voltage is changed from a lower value to a higher value, based on a time required for the voltage regulator to bring the output voltage of the alternator from the lower value to the higher value.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2006Date of Patent: July 29, 2008Assignee: Denso CorporationInventors: Takatoshi Inokuchi, Tomomi Tsuzuki, Tadatoshi Asada
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Patent number: 7394166Abstract: A wind turbine having features for black-starting includes an electric generation system for producing electricity by operation of the wind and comprising an interface for providing the electricity to an electric grid; a control system for controlling components of the wind turbine during start-up of the electric generation system, wherein start-up occurs during a deficient electric signal of the grid; and at least one energy providing element and at least one energy dissipative element for providing a balance between an output of the wind turbine and the electric signal of the grid. Methods and computer program products for operation of the wind turbine call for, among other things, synchronization of electric signals and control of components within the wind turbine.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2006Date of Patent: July 1, 2008Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Ralph Teichmann, Lei Li, Changyong Wang, Wenqiang Yang
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Patent number: 7394227Abstract: A vehicle power generation control apparatus has a power supply circuit, a rotation detecting circuit, an exciting current detecting circuit, a torque detecting/maximum exciting current determining circuit, and an exciting current control circuit. The rotation detecting circuit detects a rotation speed of a generator (or vehicle alternator) and the exciting current detecting circuit detects an exciting current flowing through an exciting winding of the generator. The torque detecting/maximum exciting current determining circuit calculates a power generation torque of the generator based on the output voltage, the exciting current, the rotation speed, and calculates an inertia torque of the generator based on a change rate of the rotation speed.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2006Date of Patent: July 1, 2008Assignee: Denso CorporationInventors: Tadashi Uematsu, Tadatoshi Asada, Fuyuki Maehara
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Publication number: 20080122409Abstract: Disclosed is a motor vehicle comprising a generator and at least one capacitor in which recuperation power generated in a thrust phase by the generator that can be operated as a recuperator can be stored. The excitation current (IErr) that limits the power of the generator (3) can be varied in the excitation circuit of the generator (3) in accordance with at least one vehicle-specific operational parameter arid/or the actual charge of the capacitor (10).Type: ApplicationFiled: October 7, 2005Publication date: May 29, 2008Applicant: AUDI AGInventor: Josef Winkler
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Patent number: 7378820Abstract: An electrical power generation system and method for generating electrical power are provided. The electrical power generation system utilizes a master controller for controlling operation of devices coupled to an AC electrical grid and DC electrical grid based on parameter values associated with a renewable power generator.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2005Date of Patent: May 27, 2008Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Yan Liu, Luis Jose Garces, Sumit Bose, Jovan Bebic
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Patent number: 7368893Abstract: In a vehicle voltage control apparatus which regulates the output voltage of the vehicle electric generator and which receives an external control signal for lowering the regulated voltage value, from an external apparatus such as the engine ECU during engine starting, a circuit detects the occurrence of engine starting based upon the frequency of an AC voltage produced by the generator or upon the level of output voltage produced by the generator. The regulated voltage value is set to a substantially low level, predetermined for use during engine starting, only while the control signal is being received concurrent with engine starting also being detected.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2006Date of Patent: May 6, 2008Assignee: Denso CorporationInventor: Tomomi Tsuzuki
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Publication number: 20080094039Abstract: A control apparatus controls power generation of an electric generator and communicates with an external control apparatus. The control apparatus includes a receiver, a controller, an initialization state detector, and a transmitter. The receiver receives a command signal transmitted by the external control apparatus. The controller controls power generation of the electric generator according to the command signal received by the receiver. The initialization state detector detects an initialization state of the control apparatus. The transmitter transmits, when the initialization state of the control apparatus is detected by the initialization state detector, an informing signal to the external control apparatus, thereby informing the external control apparatus that the control apparatus is in the initialization state.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 19, 2007Publication date: April 24, 2008Applicant: DENSO CORPORATIONInventor: Kenji Oshima