Combined Control Of Generating Means And Load Circuit Patents (Class 322/7)
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Patent number: 11916500Abstract: Techniques and methods related to a multi-mode operation of a synchronous electrical generator. The synchronous generator is configurable in at least two modes: a grid-power mode and a power-generation mode. In the power-generation mode, electrical power is generated in response to power produced by a prime mover. In the grid-power mode, the rotor is in standstill mode, and the configurable rotor winding is configured to generate a plurality of AC magnetic fields. The system provides for seamless transfer of power between grid-power to power generation using an energy storage unit and associated power conditioning apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2021Date of Patent: February 27, 2024Assignee: RAYTHEON COMPANYInventors: Stephen Kuznetsov, Eric Stich
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Patent number: 11637505Abstract: A rectifier arrangement (20) for rectifying an AC voltage into a DC voltage has connections, circuit arrangements, an interconnection apparatus (26) and an intermediate circuit (50). The connections include first and second connections (22, 21). The intermediate circuit (50) has a first line (51), a second line (52) and at least one capacitor (61, 62) between the first and second lines (51, 52). The circuit arrangements (31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36) each have a first circuit arrangement connection (A) and a second circuit arrangement connection (B), between which a changeover arrangement (92) and a coil (91) are connected in series. The interconnection apparatus (26) enables at least: a first configuration in which the first connection (22) is connected to at least one first circuit arrangement connection (A), and a second configuration in which the first connection (22) is connected to at least one second circuit arrangement connection (B).Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2021Date of Patent: April 25, 2023Assignee: Dr. Ing. h. c. F. Porsche AGInventors: Daniel Spesser, Tim Pfizenmaier, Florian Mayer, Stefan Endres
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Patent number: 11299237Abstract: An electronic device comprises a wireless transmitter and an operation device. The operation device comprises a base, a brake lever, operation portions and an electronic controller. The base is to be removably attached to a handlebar. The operation portions includes first, second and third operation portions. The first operation portion is arranged on the base. The second and third operation portions are arranged adjacent to the brake lever and are disposed between the brake lever and the handlebar. At least one of the operation portions includes a lever. At least one of the operation portions includes a button. The electronic controller is configured to transmit an operation signal to the wireless transmitter upon operation of any of the operation portions to control at least one bicycle component that is any one of a shifting device, a brake device, an adjustable seatpost, a suspension and a drive unit.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2019Date of Patent: April 12, 2022Assignee: Shimano Inc.Inventors: Taketoshi Sato, Hideki Ikemoto, Takao Harada, Daisuke Noborio, Kazuhiro Takeda, Ryuji Abe
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Patent number: 10865775Abstract: Provided is a method for operating wind energy converters, in particular of a wind farm. The power limitation mode in this case comprises the steps of turning off at least one of the wind energy converters and operating at least one wind energy converter different to the turned-off wind energy converter, activating a generator heating of the turned-off wind energy converter, turning off the working wind energy converter at or after occurrence of a predefined event, in particular after a predefined time period has elapsed or when a predefined instant is reached, and activating the generator heating of the wind energy converter turned off at or after the occurrence of the predefined event. Provided is a wind farm and to a wind energy converter for carrying out such a method.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2017Date of Patent: December 15, 2020Assignee: Wobben Properties GmbHInventor: Wolfgang De Boer
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Patent number: 9494956Abstract: A voltage control unit is configured to: control, in accordance with an output voltage signal and an output current signal, output power of a rectifying unit to a voltage lower than a voltage by which an amount of generated power of a magneto AC generator becomes maximum; control a transformation ratio in accordance with the output voltage signal and the output current signal so as to improve power generation efficiency of the magneto AC generator one of when an rpm variation signal indicates an decelerating state and when the rpm variation signal indicates that a variation in rpm indicates a value smaller than a predetermined constant; and control the transformation ratio so as to decrease the output power of the rectifying unit when the rpm variation signal indicates an accelerating state.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2013Date of Patent: November 15, 2016Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric CorporationInventors: Akihiro Sawada, Naoki Itoi
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Patent number: 9172314Abstract: A regenerative control system of a vehicle is constructed such that in a system which generates electrical energy of a low voltage suitable for a low voltage system circuit and electrical energy of a high voltage suitable for the high voltage system circuit in an alternate manner by making use of kinetic energy of a vehicle when the vehicle is in a deceleration running state, a ratio between a period of time to generate the low voltage electrical energy and a period of time to generate the high voltage electrical energy is decided in accordance with a deceleration required of the vehicle, and a power generation voltage is duty controlled according to the ratio thus decided.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2011Date of Patent: October 27, 2015Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventor: Takashi Koyama
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Patent number: 9172249Abstract: A microgrid controller may control the generation, distribution, storage and use of electrical power on a microgrid. Embodiments of a microgrid controller may include inputs for different types of power (e.g. AC and DC) or power sources (e.g. wind and solar), an input for utility grid power, electrical equipment for conditioning the electrical power received from the multiple sources (e.g. rectifiers and inverters), outputs to multiple types of loads (e.g. three-phase AC and single-phase AC) and control circuitry designed to control the generation, storage, distribution and usage of electrical power on the microgrid. Embodiments of microgrid systems may include multiple types of electrical generation sources (e.g. wind, solar, electromechanical and fuel cell), multiple types of electrical loads (e.g. inductive and resistive), electrical storage units (e.g. batteries) and a microgrid controller.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2011Date of Patent: October 27, 2015Assignee: ROCKY RESEARCHInventors: Uwe Rockenfeller, Kaveh Khalili
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Patent number: 9124138Abstract: A power grid operation control system, device, and method for steadily operating a power grid while making the most of renewable energy. The power grid operation control system serves a power grid connected to a plurality of renewable energy and a plurality of thermal/hydroelectric power generators, and includes an automatic dispatching system, which controls the thermal/hydroelectric power generators, and a renewable energy generation control system, which controls the renewable energy. The automatic dispatching system controls the thermal/hydroelectric power generators by generating an automatic frequency control signal for correcting the power supply and demand imbalance of the power grid. The renewable energy generation control system determines an available connection capability and issues load instructions to ensure that the total power generation capacity of the renewable energy does not exceed the available connection capability.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2012Date of Patent: September 1, 2015Assignees: HITACHI, LTD., THE OKINAWA ELECTRIC POWER COMPANY, INCORPORATED, OKINAWA NEW ENERGY DEVELOPMENT CO., INC., THE OKIDEN GLOBAL SYSTEMS COMPANY, INCORPORATEDInventors: Shigeki Mori, Yuuta Gima, Ryuta Kinjo, Fumihiro Shinjo, Yasunori Uezu, Eiichiro Kagawa
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Publication number: 20150061606Abstract: An electrical DC generation system is disclosed. According to one aspect, a system for electrical DC generation system includes an electrical machine, having a positive output terminal and a negative output terminal, a plurality of stator windings, a plurality of passive rectifiers connected to the plurality of stator windings, the plurality of passive rectifiers being connected in series to form an intermediate bus having a positive terminal and a negative terminal. The system also includes a DC-DC converter circuit having input terminals connected to the positive and negative terminals of the intermediate bus and having output terminals electrically isolated from the input terminals and connected in series with the intermediate bus. The DC-DC converter output voltage is adjusted to regulate torque of the electrical machine by adjusting stator current of the electrical machine.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 30, 2013Publication date: March 5, 2015Inventors: Zhiguo Pan, Darren Dale Tremelling
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Publication number: 20140055102Abstract: A system for improving engine starting is disclosed. In one example, an engine starting is improved by providing a variable load to the engine during engine starting. The variable load may be provided by controlling alternator field current during the engine start.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 29, 2013Publication date: February 27, 2014Applicant: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Alex O'Connor Gibson, John Anthony DeMarco, Allan Roy Gale, Robert Michael Grant
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Patent number: 8471534Abstract: A power generation system that includes a prime mover configured to generate mechanical energy. The power generation system also includes a power generator configured for generating electrical power from the mechanical energy received from the prime mover. The power generation system further includes a fault ride-through switch electrically coupled in series between the power generator and a power grid. The fault ride-through switch includes a first branch configured to carry the electrical power during normal operating conditions and includes an LC resonance circuit. The fault ride-through switch also includes a multiphase transformer configured for providing voltage phases of different polarities to the LC resonance circuit.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2010Date of Patent: June 25, 2013Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Ara Panosyan, Goran Drobnjak, Simon Herbert Schramm
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Publication number: 20130002210Abstract: A method for improving starting of an engine that may be repeatedly stopped and started is presented. In one embodiment, the method adjusts a transmission actuator in response to engine combustion during an engine start. The method may improve vehicle launch for stop/start vehicles.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 30, 2011Publication date: January 3, 2013Applicant: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Alex O'Connor Gibson, John Anthony DeMarco, Robert Michael Grant, Allan Roy Gale
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Patent number: 8319480Abstract: The present disclosure is related to a power control apparatus and a method for controlling power, more specifically to a power control apparatus that controls the risk of overcurrent in a power generator when the voltage in the power grid is low. In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, a power control apparatus that controls power in a power generation system including a generator generating power can include a current comparator, which calculates an error current by using a difference between a current measured at the generator and a rated current of the generator, a controlling unit, which calculates a real power value by receiving the error current and outputs a switch driving signal corresponding to the calculated real power value, a switch, which is operated by the switch driving signal, and a resistance device, which is coupled to the switch to consume the error current.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2012Date of Patent: November 27, 2012Assignee: Samsung Heavy Ind. Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hee-Sang Ko, Yun-Tae Kang, Jae-Doo Lee
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Patent number: 8159196Abstract: The present disclosure is related to a power control apparatus and a method for controlling power, more specifically to a power control apparatus that controls the risk of overcurrent in a power generator when the voltage in the power grid is low. In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, a power control apparatus that controls power in a power generation system including a generator generating power can include a current comparator, which calculates an error current by using a difference between a current measured at the generator and a rated current of the generator, a controlling unit, which calculates a real power value by receiving the error current and outputs a switch driving signal corresponding to the calculated real power value, a switch, which is operated by the switch driving signal, and a resistance device, which is coupled to the switch to consume the error current.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2009Date of Patent: April 17, 2012Assignee: Samsung Heavy Ind. Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hee-Sang Ko, Yun-Tae Kang, Jae-Doo Lee
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Publication number: 20100289459Abstract: Provided is a power supply device including: a magneto generator (1), which includes: a rotor including a magnet forming a magnetic field; and a stator which generates an alternating current in stator windings by rotation of the rotor; a rectifying unit (3) which rectifies the alternating current generated by the magneto generator to a direct current; a variable transformation-ratio direct current voltage transformer (40) which transforms an output voltage of the direct current of the rectifying unit to a voltage between input terminals of an electrical load (2) to which electric power is supplied; and a voltage control unit (5) which controls a transformation ratio of the variable transformation-ratio direct current voltage transformer in accordance with at least one of an operating state signal regarding the rotation of the rotor of the magneto generator and an electrical load state signal of the electrical load.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 3, 2010Publication date: November 18, 2010Applicant: MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC CORPORATIONInventors: Nobuhiro KIHARA, Masayoshi MAEDA, Shinji KAWAGUCHI, Hiroshi OKUDA, Fumito UEMURA, Takahiro URAKABE, Masaya INOUE, Naoki ITOI, Kenji ISHI
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Patent number: 7825640Abstract: Apparatus and method are provided, for connecting prime mover driven alternator to circuit that has an existing alternating current. Alternator is connected to circuit when minimum current flows to or from alternator. The actual current is measured by controller following connection and the value of this current is used to determine the optimal connection conditions when alternator is next connected. Alternator is disconnected by controller by running down prime mover, monitoring the current and stalling prime mover when the current flow is at a minimum.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2009Date of Patent: November 2, 2010Assignee: Microgen Engine Corporation Holding B.V.Inventors: James Robert Lowrie, Wayne Kenneth Aldridge
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Publication number: 20100013299Abstract: A diesel-electric drive system having a generator mechanically connected to a diesel motor on the rotor side and linked to a voltage source (intermediate) inverter on the stator side. The voltage source inverter is connected to a self-commuting pulse power converter on the generator and on the load side as well as to a brake resistor. The generator has two multiple-phase coil systems which are each electroconductively linked to a self-commuting pulse power converter on the generator side, wherein the second self-commuting pulse power converter on the generator side is switched electrically parallel to the voltage source (intermediate) circuit of the voltage source (intermediate) inverter on the generator side. At least one input phase of the first self-commuting pulse power converter on the generator side is electroconductively linked via a brake resistor to a input phase of the second self-commuting pulse power converter on the generator side.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 1, 2007Publication date: January 21, 2010Applicant: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventor: Gerald Amler
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Patent number: 7560906Abstract: 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: May 20, 2008Date of Patent: July 14, 2009Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Yan Liu, Luis Jose Garces, Sumit Bose, Jovan Bebic
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Patent number: 7471011Abstract: The present invention relates to s wind turbine having a power generator for generating power for a first power line of a power grid; said wind turbine comprising a first transformer having a first primary coil connected to said power generator and a first secondary coil connected to said first power line for transforming a first primary voltage (vp1) across said first primary coil to a first secondary voltage (vs1) across said first secondary coil; further, the wind turbine according to the invention comprises a first electric circuit connected to said first primary coil; said first electric circuit having a first switching element for providing a first current path parallel to said first primary coil if said first secondary voltage (vs1) exceeds a predetermined first voltage limit value.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2006Date of Patent: December 30, 2008Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventor: Wilhelm Janssen
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Patent number: 7471004Abstract: An AC generator comprises a rotor and a stator having a three-phase winding. A three-phase inverter is connected to the three-phase winding. Here, the three-phase winding comprises at least two independent three-phase windings. Switching elements for respective phases of the three-phase inverter are connected in parallel by the number of the independent three-phase windings, and in-phase windings are individually connected to their parallel switching elements.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 2007Date of Patent: December 30, 2008Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.Inventors: Hiroshi Kanazawa, Takashi Kobayashi, Noriaki Hino, Shinji Shirakawa, Keiichi Mashino, Masanori Tsuchiya
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Publication number: 20080224670Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: May 20, 2008Publication date: September 18, 2008Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANYInventors: Yan Liu, Luis Jose Garces, Sumit Bose, Jovan Bebic
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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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Publication number: 20080157724Abstract: An electric power generation system is disclosed that provides an AC electric power output with the target waveform period. A sequence of values is established that each represent electric current of the output for a corresponding one of a number of sequential time segments. A processor executes operating logic to process the values for each respective one of the time segments that includes: determining a difference between a first one of the values and the second one of the values for the respective one of the time segments, selecting the second one of the values from the subset of values corresponding to a subset of the time segments, and performing a comparison of the difference to a threshold. Based on this comparison, a transient condition can be identified and/or control of the system can otherwise be facilitated.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 26, 2007Publication date: July 3, 2008Inventor: Souren G. Fattal
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Publication number: 20080150495Abstract: A method of coupling a mechanical power source through an electrical power generator to an electrical load is disclosed. A characteristic of an electrical output is measured from the electrical power generator produced during a power generation cycle during which there is a coupling of the mechanical power source through the electrical power generator to the electrical load. The coupling of the mechanical power source is adjusted through the electrical power generator to the electrical load during a subsequent power generation cycle based at least in part on the measured characteristic of the electrical output.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 7, 2007Publication date: June 26, 2008Inventors: Colin Bulthaup, Saul Griffith, Dan Goldwater, Corwin Hardham, George Homsy, Eric Wilhelm, Brian Warshawsky, Mitch Heinrich, Michael Lin, Benji Rappoport, John Lewis
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Patent number: 7292008Abstract: An electric generation control apparatus for a vehicle alternator receives an electric generation control signal transferred from an ECU placed apart from the control apparatus through a data transfer line. The control apparatus has a voltage comparator, a communication state judgment circuit, a serial data communication receiver, a PWM communication receiver, and an electric generation control circuit. The voltage comparator acts as a receiver of receiving the electric generation control signal transferred through the data transfer line. The communication state judgment circuit judges whether the received signal is a PWM signal or a serial data signal. The serial data communication receiver and the PWM communication receiver demodulate an electric generation control parameter from the received control signal based on the judgment result. The electric generation control circuit controls the operation of the vehicle alternator based on the electric generation control parameter demodulated.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2006Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Denso CorporationInventor: Tadatoshi Asada
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Patent number: 7292006Abstract: A DC power supply apparatus used with a power storage element comprises a rectifier circuit that converts AC current from an alternating current generator into a DC current; an input current adjusting circuit that receives DC current from the rectifier circuit to adjust current flow from the rectifier circuit to the power storage element; an output current adjusting circuit that receives current from the power storage element and adjusts current flow from the power storage element to an output node; and a control circuit that operates at least one of the input current adjusting circuit and the output current adjusting circuit based on a predetermined condition of the power storage element.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2006Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Shimano, Inc.Inventor: Noriyuki Horiuchi
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Patent number: 7285937Abstract: An electric generation control apparatus for a vehicle alternator receives an electric generation control signal transferred from an ECU placed apart from the control apparatus through a data transfer line. The control apparatus has a voltage comparator, a communication state judgment circuit, a serial data communication receiver, a PWM communication receiver, and an electric generation control circuit. The voltage comparator acts as a receiver of receiving the electric generation control signal transferred through the data transfer line. The communication state judgment circuit judges whether the received signal is a PWM signal or a serial data signal. The serial data communication receiver and the PWM communication receiver demodulate an electric generation control parameter from the received control signal based on the judgment result. The electric generation control circuit controls the operation of the vehicle alternator based on the electric generation control parameter demodulated.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 2007Date of Patent: October 23, 2007Assignee: Denso CorporationInventor: Tadatoshi Asada
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Patent number: 7224079Abstract: An AC generator comprises a rotor and a stator having a three-phase winding. A three-phase inverter is connected to the three-phase winding. Here, the three-phase winding comprises at least two independent three-phase windings. Switching elements for respective phases of the three-phase inverter are connected in parallel by the number of the independent three-phase windings, and in-phase windings are individually connected to their parallel switching elements.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2005Date of Patent: May 29, 2007Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.Inventors: Hiroshi Kanazawa, Takashi Kobayashi, Noriaki Hino, Shinji Shirakawa, Keiichi Mashino, Masanori Tsuchiya
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Patent number: 7202637Abstract: The present invention provides an improved control method and apparatus allowing units arranged at different spaced apart locations to be controlled without the need for a high bandwidth link between the units and the controller. This allows a single controller to control a number of remotely located units.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2001Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: The Turbo Genset Company LimitedInventors: Tim Charles Green, Hassan Mansir, Milan Prodanovic
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Patent number: 7176658Abstract: The invention is a control system that, among other things, controls a permanent magnet alternator and provides relatively accurate voltage regulation. The control system may include one or more of the following: (1) a rectification system to rectify and regulate the output voltage of an alternator, (2) a rectifier/limiter used as an electrical power source to a boost type regulator, (3) a multimode rectifier/limiter, (4) a DC to AC inverter bridge, and (5) power switches employed in the system to minimize the switching energy that would otherwise be dissipated in the power switches as heat.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2004Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: Magnetic Applications Inc.Inventors: Fazle Quazi, Harold C. Scott, Stewart C. Koch
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Patent number: 7161329Abstract: The operation of a generator and the loads placed on the generator are controlled in response to measuring the loads and generator operating parameters and controllably altering the operating conditions in response to comparison of the measurements to respective set points.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2005Date of Patent: January 9, 2007Inventors: John E. McLoughlin, Neocles G. Athanasiades, Toh K. Meng
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Patent number: 7129592Abstract: A human-powered, electrical generation system for intermittently receiving mechanical energy from a human and storing that mechanical energy. The stored mechanical energy is used to turn a generator that produces electrical power that is stored in a rechargeable battery. An optional inverter converts the DC power stored in the battery to AC power. A mechanical energy controller is provided to regulates the release of the stored mechanical energy. This allows intermittent energy release so that an intermittent electrical load may be properly supplied over a relatively long period of time without need for repeated energy input from the human. Mechanical energy may be stored in a spring arrangement or in a pressurized hydraulic reservoir. Hand cranks, levers, and pedals in optional combination with a gear box or multi-speed hub may be provided to add energy to the mechanical energy storage apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2005Date of Patent: October 31, 2006Inventor: Gary L. Yetter
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Patent number: 7088011Abstract: A motor-generator system with a current control feedback loop for generating electrical energy in stationary, portable, and automotive applications. The generator includes a housing defining an interior space and including a first portion and a second portion; an electric motor assembly positioned within the first portion of the housing, and operationally coupled to a shaft member for selectively rotating the shaft member; an electric generator assembly positioned within the second portion of the housing and operationally coupled to the shaft member for converting mechanical rotation into electrical energy, the electric generator assembly including a current output for supplying electrical current; and a control assembly operationally coupled between the electric generator assembly and the electric motor assembly the control assembly providing a control current to the electric motor assembly for controlling a speed of rotation induced into the shaft member by the electric motor assembly.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2003Date of Patent: August 8, 2006Inventor: Raymond W. Smith
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Patent number: 7080449Abstract: A method and a connector arrangement for connecting and disconnecting an electrical generator, such as a prime mover driven alternator (10), to a circuit with an existing alternating current such as the mains electricity supply (20).Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2001Date of Patent: July 25, 2006Assignee: BG Intellectual Property Ltd.Inventors: Wayne Kenneth Aldridge, George McChesney Francis, Isobel Dorothy Rea
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Patent number: 7075273Abstract: Disclosed herein are a variety of different electrical system topologies intended to mitigate the impact of large intermittent loads on a 12 volt vehicle power distribution system. In some embodiments the intermittent load is disconnected from the remainder of the system and the voltage supplied to this load is allowed to fluctuate. In other embodiments, the voltage to critical loads is regulated independently of the voltage supplied to the remainder of the system. The different topologies described can be grouped into three categories, each corresponding to a different solution technique. One approach is to regulate the voltage to the critical loads. A second approach is to isolate the intermittent load that causes the drop in system voltage. The third approach is to use a different type of alternator that has a faster response than the conventional Lundell wound field machine.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2004Date of Patent: July 11, 2006Assignee: Motorola, Inc.Inventors: Patrick A. O'Gorman, Donald J. Remboski, Dennis L. Stephens
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Patent number: 7038330Abstract: A wind power station comprises a wind rotor; a transmission mechanically coupled to the wind rotor; an asynchronous generator having a generator rotor mechanically coupled to the transmission, and a generator stator electrically coupled to a power grid; and a protection unit protecting the generator and the transmission against accidental breakdowns of an alternating voltage provided by the power grid. The Protection unit includes at least one choke electrically arranged between the power grid and the generator stator, and a synchronous electrical machine electrically coupled to the choke.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2004Date of Patent: May 2, 2006Assignee: RWE Piller GmbHInventors: Bernd Rosebrock, Hilmar Darrelmann, Uwe Schrader-Hausmann, Reinhard Engelhardt, Detlev Seidel, Armin Klauenberg, Norbert Ueffing
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Patent number: 7034508Abstract: An A/D conversion device includes a counter for counting a clock signal fed from a clock signal generator, a D/A converter for converting a digital output of the counter into an analog value, a comparator for comparing an analog output of the D/A converter and an analog field current detection value fed from a current detecting resistor and outputting a result of comparison, and an up/down control circuit for switching the counter between count-up and count-down operations according to the result of comparison output from the comparator. The output of the counter is transmitted as a digital field current detection value to an external control unit which is an ECU of a vehicle via a communication interface.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 2005Date of Patent: April 25, 2006Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Junya Sasaki, Katsuyuki Sumimoto
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Patent number: 7019495Abstract: The present invention includes a system and method for controlling multiple sources of electric power using inter-regulator control. The regulators in the system may be of a universal type that may operate either as a master regulator or a follower regulator. Determination whether a regulator operates as a master or a follower regulator may occur before operation of the system, during operation of the system, or may reverse the role of master and follower regulators in response to operating conditions. The master regulator may control its source of electric power and may send signals to the follower regulators to control their sources of electric power. The control of the sources of electric power may be based on sensing output of at least one of the sources of electric power and based on the operational characteristics of at least one of the sources of electric power. Further, the follower regulator may verify the instructions sent from the master regulator.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2003Date of Patent: March 28, 2006Assignee: C.E. Neihoff & Co.Inventor: Ciaran J. Patterson
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Patent number: 6993923Abstract: A system and method is disclosed for creating and/or maintaining an electrical load on a diesel engine generator for use on a marine vessel in order to avoid the harmful effects of no-load or low-load operation of the diesel engine. The parasitic load bank system 10 utilizes the heat transfer fluid 23 contained in the closed circulation loop 28 of a chille7d-fluid air conditioning system 14 for creating and/or maintaining the electrical load on the diesel engine generator 12 by utilizing a load bank controller 44 for diverting a portion 23c of the heat transfer fluid 23a being supplied to the vessel's air handlers 42 into heat exchange relationship with the heat transfer fluid 20b discharged from the air conditioning system's source of heat transfer 18 such that the heat exchanged heat transfer fluid 23f activates the source of heat transfer 18, which may be a chiller, reverse-cycle chiller or heat pump, to create an electrical power demand on the diesel engine generator 12.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2001Date of Patent: February 7, 2006Assignee: Rich Beers Marine, Inc.Inventor: Richard F. Beers
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Patent number: 6995544Abstract: An IC regulator for controlling an alternator by changing contents of control in dependence on ambient temperature includes a control voltage limiter (2), a field current controller (3), a temperature sensor (4), a first comparator (5) for comparing the ambient temperature (T) with an activation temperature (TP1) and a reset temperature (TS1), and a second comparator (6) for comparing the ambient temperature (T) with a second activation temperature (TP2). The first comparator (5) outputs a limiter control signal (C2) when the ambient temperature (T) exceeds the first activation temperature (TP1) while resetting the limiter control when the temperature (T) becomes lower than the first reset temperature (TS1). The second comparator (6) outputs a field current interrupt signal (C3) when the ambient temperature (T) exceeds a second activation temperature (TP2) while resetting the signal (C3) when the temperature (T) becomes lower than the second activation temperature (TP2).Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2003Date of Patent: February 7, 2006Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Katsuyuki Sumimoto, Junya Sasaki, Kyoko Higashino
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Patent number: 6992401Abstract: Disclosed is a method of supplying DC power to equipment using proton exchange membranes (PEMs). PEMs run on hydrogen to produce DC electrical power. In the disclosed embodiment these PEMs are used as an alternative source of power to AC sources. One of these other sources is generated by an array of gas turbines. Another source is provided by a commercial utility. AC from these sources is converted using rectifiers. Capacitors are used to bridge when switching between energy sources.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2005Date of Patent: January 31, 2006Assignee: Sprint Communications Company L.P.Inventor: Larry L. Johnson
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Patent number: 6982545Abstract: An alternator system includes a permanent magnet alternator, battery and voltage regulator operatively connected to the permanent magnet alternator and battery for regulating the charging of the battery. The voltage regulator includes a rectifying circuit for rectifying the alternating current and a semiconductor switching element operative for turning the regulator on and off based on a predetermined temperature threshold to prevent overheating of any voltage regulator electronic components.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 2004Date of Patent: January 3, 2006Assignee: Wetherill Associates, Inc.Inventors: Reginald L. Browning, Juan Aguila
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Patent number: 6956301Abstract: An electrical system and method for a turbine/alternator comprising a gas driven turbine and a permanent magnet alternator rotating on a common shaft includes an inverter circuit connectable either to an output circuit or the stator winding of the alternator. A control circuit during a start-up mode switches the inverter circuit to the stator winding of the alternator and during a power out mode switches the inverter circuit to the output circuit and power line. During the power output mode the power line is monitored and the output voltage, frequency and/or phase is matched or synchronized to the power line.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2003Date of Patent: October 18, 2005Assignee: Elliott Energy Systems, Inc.Inventors: Suresh C. Gupta, Douglas R. Burnham, J. Michael Teets, Jon W. Teets
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Patent number: 6946749Abstract: A system and method for maintaining the health of an electrical storage device measures revolutions per unit time of an engine shaft of an internal combustion engine. A status signal is provided indicating whether the engine shaft is disengaged or engaged with a remainder of a drive train to propel a vehicle. A controller determines minimum revolutions per unit time necessary to provide at least a threshold minimum percentage of full operational output power of an alternator. The controller sends a control signal to control the revolutions per unit time of the engine shaft to be equal to or greater than the determined minimum revolutions per unit time if the status signal is indicative of disengagement. A throttle actuator associated with providing fuel to the internal combustion engine is responsive to the control signal.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2003Date of Patent: September 20, 2005Assignee: Deere & CompanyInventor: Christopher David Glenn Turner
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Patent number: 6927499Abstract: A control unit (5) for controlling each device which constitutes a electric power generator set (1) is provided with an operation-and-display device (28) so constituted as to calculate each electric power value data and each electric energy data on external electric power, generated electric power, and load electric power on the basis of sensed data on each value of external electric power and generated electric power transmitted from inverters (6a, 6b) and as to store these calculated data and the sensed data, and connected to the electric power generator set (1) by wires or radio.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2003Date of Patent: August 9, 2005Assignee: Yanmar Co., Ltd.Inventors: Shinji Hibi, Masayoshi Tokiwa, Toshinobu Fujisawa, Tadatatsu Kanemoto, Hiroshi Yoshimoto, Kozo Yamamuro, Mamoru Fukae
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Patent number: 6909199Abstract: An electrical system and method for a turbine/alternator comprising a gas driven turbine and a permanent magnet alternator rotating on a common shaft includes an inverter circuit connectable either to an output circuit or the stator winding of the alternator. A control circuit during a start-up mode switches the inverter circuit to the stator winding of the alternator and during a power out mode switches the inverter circuit to the output circuit. During the power out mode, output voltage is continuously measured and the inverter circuit is controlled to compensate for output voltage fluctuations.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2003Date of Patent: June 21, 2005Assignee: Elliott Energy Systems, Inc.Inventors: Suresh C. Gupta, Douglas R. Burnham, J. Michael Teets, Jon W. Teets
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Patent number: 6801019Abstract: An electric power generating set which automatically varies its speed to match load variations at any time includes an engine driven generator G which provides a positive, Ga and a negative, Gb AC output voltage each of which is rectified by a respective rectifier Re3a, Re3b. Each rectifier Re3a,Re3b has one terminal connected to a common neutral line N. The DC output voltage of each rectifier Re3a, Re3b is boosted in a respective booster circuit which also has one terminal connected to the neutral line N. The combined output of the two booster circuits, Va+Vb is fed to an Inverter IN which converts it to the AC power output of the generating set. A DC load current between the booster circuits and the inverter IN is monitored and used to provide a speed demand feedback signal Srs to the speed control of the engine EN.Type: GrantFiled: December 31, 2002Date of Patent: October 5, 2004Assignee: Newage International LimitedInventors: Lawrence Haydock, Wlodzimierz Koczara, Nazar Al-Khayat, Neil Brown, Denis Hedley Dalby, Jawad Al-Tayie, Robert Pawel Dziuba, Jaroslaw Leonarski, George Williamson Laird
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Patent number: 6784561Abstract: A resistance force generator generates, in accordance with game information, a resistance force corresponding to an input operation on a trigger of an operation device which inputs information to a main unit of a game machine. The resistance force generator has a container that accommodates a magnetic powder, rotating vanes which are provided inside the container and rotate based on the input operation of the trigger, and an electromagnet which generates a magnetic field inside the container in accordance with game information.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2002Date of Patent: August 31, 2004Assignee: Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.Inventor: Yasuhiro Ootori
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Patent number: 6744239Abstract: A fault on the generator can be detected with the use of a simple arrangement. The output of the generator 12 which has multi-phase winding and is driven by an engine 11 is rectified and then converted by an inverter 133 into an alternating current at the frequency of a system before interconnected to the source of the system. After the engine 11 is started, the direct current voltage Vdc is monitored with a first fault monitor 40. When the direct current voltage Vdc rises up to a predetermined level, a connector relay 135 is closed. As the output of the inverter 133 is increased, the interconnection with the system source is enabled. After the interconnection, the direct current voltage and the output of the inverter are monitored with a second fault monitor 43. If the direct current voltage drops down to below the predetermined level before the output of the inverter reaches a rated level, the canceling and re-interconnection is repeated.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 2001Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Tomoki Fukushima, Yoshiaki Kotani, Takao Tamechika, Kenji Kamimura
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Publication number: 20040070372Abstract: In a control system of a regeneration system, electric power generated by a first electric generator is supplied to a first electric power storing device, and electric power is transmitted, via an intermediary device, between the first electric power storing device and a second electric power storing device which is provided separately from the first electric power storing device. The control system of a regeneration system includes determination means for determining whether or not an electric power generation amount of the first electric generator is equal to or larger than a predetermined amount, and electric power storing performance control means for determining whether or not the electric power of the second electric power storing device is to be supplied to the first electric power storing device via the intermediary device based on a determination result of the determination means.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 20, 2003Publication date: April 15, 2004Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Takashi Kawai, Hiroshi Tsujii, Ken Kuretake, Masanori Sugiura, Hideto Hanada