Abstract: Methods and systems for detecting a motor shorting relay failure. Exemplary embodiments include methods and systems for determining a motor shorting relay failure in a motor, the motor having first phase winding in a first leg of the motor, a second phase winding in a second leg of the motor, and a third phase winding in a third leg of the motor, the method including applying a first voltage signal to the first leg, applying a second voltage signal to the second leg, applying a test voltage to a test circuit electrically coupled to the third leg, measuring a third voltage signal in the third leg at a first predetermined time in response to the application of the first and second voltage signals and determining a motor shorting relay in the motor, based on the amplitude of the third voltage signal.

Abstract: A method and system to monitor a high voltage power relay operable to conduct electrical power from a source to a load, during each vehicle shutdown event. The system includes the electrical relay with a resistive device, electrically connected in parallel circuit, a controllable electrical load device, and a sensing device. A controller is connected to the electrical relay and each sensing device, and operable to identify a low electrical load condition at the load. The controller commands the load to operate at a known current draw level, commands the relay open, and monitors a change in power to the load device when the relay is commanded open. The electrical relay is functioning properly when the change in electrical power to the load exhibits a known profile over time, when the electrical relay is controlled to the commanded-open position.

Abstract: A method of monitoring a solenoid (1) of a directional control valve (DCV) associated with a subsea control module (6) in a subsea hydrocarbon production system is disclosed. A voltage is applied across a coil of the solenoid, for moving the armature (4) thereof, and a current through the coil is sensed to produce an indication of if and when the armature is moved.

Abstract: This invention relates to the system that detects the origin of relay or relays where failures are seen in electromechanical relays, and ensuring the repair of failure at the shortest time. System developed by this invention consists of a clamp on sensor handle, clamp on sensor ground, mumetal, magnetic area measuring sensor, clamp on sensor cable and socket. Signals sent to the recorder through the system are measured in ampere and this information is transferred to the computer.

Abstract: A contact welding detecting device includes: a relay including a first contact for permitting and breaking transmission of a first DC input potential to a first output and a second contact for permitting and breaking transmission of a second DC input potential; a relay open/close control unit that simultaneously controls to open and close the first and second contacts when welding of at least one of the first and second contacts is detected; a first potential difference detection unit that detects a potential difference between a first point at an input side of the first contact and a second point at an output side of the second contact; and a second potential difference detection unit that detects a potential difference between a third point at an output side of the first contact and a fourth point at an input side of the second contact.

Abstract: A solenoid type switch has at least two driving coils. The driving coils turn off a switch with a current for example an overcurrent that flows in the switch. The driving coils are magnetized or demagnetized by a driving circuit so as to turn on or off the switch. The driving circuit magnetizes or demagnetizes the driving coils in accordance with a control signal supplied from a controlling circuit. Thus, the switch can be turned off with the current that flows in the driving coils.

Abstract: A method of determining change in actuator position includes determining a slope of the inductor current with time and determining whether the slope exceeds a first predetermined slope for a first predetermined time, determining whether the slope is less than a second predetermined slope for a second predetermined time when the slope exceeds the first predetermined slope for the first predetermined time, and determining whether the slope exceeds a third predetermined slope for a third predetermined time when the slope is less than the second predetermined slope for the second predetermined time. The method further includes determining the change in actuator position when the slope exceeds the third predetermined slope for the third predetermined time.

Abstract: A programmable system for testing relays and controlling systems is provided. In one embodiment the present disclosure provides a programmable device capable of, for example, testing relays. The device includes a signal generator for generating signals to test relays. The device includes a memory location, and a first program stored in the memory location. The first program supports relay testing. The device includes a versioned program to support relay testing, and a processor in communication with the signal generator and the memory location. The device also includes a routine that is operable by the processor to install a versioned program in the memory location replacing the first program.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for determining the functional status of an electromagnetic valve having a solenoid and plunger including determining the electro-mechanical switching time of a valve based on characteristics of an electrical characteristic responsive to the solenoid; comparing the valve electro-mechanical switching time to a predetermined value; and generating a valve status signal dependant on the results of the comparison.

Abstract: There is provided a switch mode power supply circuit including at least one inductive component coupled to an associated switching device for cyclically connecting the inductive component to a source of power. The circuit includes a signal output representative of a voltage at a junction of the at least one inductive component to the switching device. The circuit further comprises a hard switching amplitude detector for deriving a measure of hard switching amplitude occurring in operation in the switching device the detector including a signal processing path for receiving the signal output and generating the measure of hard switching amplitude therefrom. The signal path includes: a signal differentiator for imperfectly differentiating the signal output to generate a corresponding imperfectly differentiated signal; and a signal integrator for integrating the imperfectly differentiated signal in a temporally-gated manner for generating the measure of hard switching.

Abstract: The invention consists of a relay device including: at least one mode change device for changing the relay device from a normal mode to a test mode; an interface for receiving test script from a source; a waveform generator for running the test script received from the source and outputting test results, wherein the source signals the relay to switch from the normal mode to the test mode; a logic device for providing a logic output to the waveform generator when the relay is in test mode and setting the waveform generator to a predetermined value; a data preparation component for calculating current and voltage samples from power system input data; and a data processor for performing phasor estimation and frequency tracking of the current and voltage samples from the power system input data and performing protection calculations to determine the output of the relay.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for obtaining spatial information about an object, and for measuring the dielectric constant of an object. They include placing the object in a cavity and interacting electromagnetic radiation at a plurality of frequencies with the object to obtain a corresponding plurality of measured resonant transverse magnetic modes. They also include using the plurality of measured resonant transverse magnetic modes to obtain the spatial information for the object, and/or using the plurality of measured resonant transverse magnetic modes to obtain the dielectric constant for the object.

Abstract: A monitoring and switching device for use with a towed vehicle includes a relay circuit that has a pair of terminals that are adapted to be connected with another circuit. A detection circuit is in communication with the relay circuit. The detection circuit can detect closing of the relay circuit and send an electrical signal that the relay circuit has been closed.

Abstract: A relay controller for connecting a power source includes at least one relay having at least two contacts. The relay controller includes a processing device operable to selectively switch the relay contacts, and a feedback circuit adapted to identify an actual state of the relay contacts. The processing device is configured to recognize a fault contact condition of a disparity between an expected state of the relay contacts and the actual state of the relay contacts. The processing device is also configured to responsively communicate information relating to the relay fault condition.

Abstract: A wireless power supply and method of wirelessly supplying power use light to directly supply power wirelessly to an electrical apparatus without a power cable. The wireless power supply includes: a plurality of pressure switches adapted to switch ON/OFF in response to an applied pressure; and a plurality of light emitting devices respectively connected to the plurality of pressure switches, the plurality of light emitting devices adapted to emit light to supply the power to a load in response to at least one of the pressure switches being switched ON.

Abstract: A programmable system for testing relays and controlling systems is provided. In one embodiment the present disclosure provides a programmable device capable of, for example, testing relays. The device includes a signal generator for generating signals to test relays. The device includes a memory location, and a first program stored in the memory location. The first program supports relay testing. The device includes a versioned program to support relay testing, and a processor in communication with the signal generator and the memory location. The device also includes a routine that is operable by the processor to install a versioned program in the memory location replacing the first program.

Abstract: A power supply controller apparatus is provided for use in a power supply apparatus including a battery assembly. The power supply controller apparatus includes a controller that controls supplying power to a load from said battery assembly through a capacitor connected between first and second contactors by turning on and off each of contactors. The controller detects whether or not each contactor is welded based on an output signal from one output terminal of both ends of the capacitor, when the each contactor is controlled to be turned off and an AC signal is applied to one input terminal of (a) one end of the battery assembly, (b) the other end of the battery assembly, and (c) each connection point between secondary batteries of the battery assembly.

Abstract: A relay situated in series between an AC line source and an AC load has a core conductor connected with the fixed N.O. contact, so that load current flows axially through the core of the actuator coil. Alternatively, the fixed N.C. contact may be connected with the core conductor. A plate armature with leaf springs can achieve linear axial action. A sensor connected to leads of a winding of the actuator coil picks up a an induced voltage that is representative of the current supplied to the load. This provides a simple arrangement for monitoring for current level and can be used for measuring power factor or ?? at the load device. In a three phase embodiment, phase imbalance can be detected.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include a test circuit having an auxiliary low power test signal generator, filters, and a detector to test a power switch. The generator sends an auxiliary low power test signal having a different frequency than a power signal for the switch to an input of the switch. The detector detects the auxiliary low power test signal at an output of the switch. Test circuit filters are used to filter out the power signal from reaching the auxiliary low power test signal generator or the detector circuit. A circuit of the test circuit is tuned to the test signal's different frequency to ensure that the detector only detects the test signal when the switch is in one position. Thus, by detecting or sensing the test signal across the switch, the detector can detect whether the switch is operating properly.

Abstract: A test device for testing relays is provided. The test device includes a chassis and a plurality of generator components removably coupled to the chassis. Each of the plurality of generator components have a signal generator, a CPU to promote test signal generation by the signal generator, and an amplifier to amplify signals generated by the signal generator. The test device also includes a controller coupled to communicate with the plurality of generator components.

Abstract: A system of an embodiment of the invention includes an array of micro-electromechanical (MEM) device assemblies and a testing mechanism situated outside of the array of the MEM device assemblies. Each MEM device assembly includes a MEM device capable of being individually written to, but incapable of being electrically read. The testing mechanism tests each MEM device assembly for proper operation without directly reading the MEM device of the MEM device assembly.

Abstract: A test device for testing relays is provided. The test device includes a chassis and a plurality of generator components removably coupled to the chassis. Each of the plurality of generator components have a signal generator, a CPU to promote test signal generation by the signal generator, and an amplifier to amplify signals generated by the signal generator. The test device also includes a controller coupled to communicate with the plurality of generator components.

Abstract: A load board includes an embedded relay tracker circuit that counts and stores relay clicks to measure relay usage. Having accurate relay usage data reduces maintenance costs. The relay tracker circuit includes a controller with a counter for counting relay clicks of the load board relays and wires or conductive traces connecting the controller to the relays. Each time a relay switches, a signal is transmitted from the relay to the controller and the controller increments the counter. The count information then is stored in a memory connected to the counter.

Abstract: A circuit to monitor electrical continuity through a light bulb when the light bulb is switched off, and to monitor proper functioning of the light bulb when the bulb is switched on. The circuit comprises a LED, a relay and a latching circuit portion, the latching circuit portion configured to remain latched thereby applying power to the bulb and the relay only when the bulb is switched on and lit, and the relay having a pair of normally closed contacts connected to provide an alternative path of minimal resistance to ground for low voltage applied to an incoming side of the LED, and the relay also having a pair of normally open contacts which when closed allow voltage to be applied to the outgoing side of the LED, thereby resulting in the LED lighting when and only when, the light bulb is broken. Most preferably the latching portion of the circuit comprises a silicone controlled rectifier having a trigger circuit portion configured to pulse the gate when a switched light power control line is energized.

Abstract: A testing interface provides rapid, temporary connections to individual signal relays used in railroad signal systems when testing is required, and otherwise permits normal operation of railroad signal vital circuits through its connections. A connectivity block provides contacts that are used to isolate the relay from its application circuit and provide connectivity to the relay coils for testing when a connection paddle is inserted into the block. The interface allows fully automated or manual testing of installed relays without requiring removal from the relay rack.

Abstract: A testing device for connection to a relay is provided. The testing device comprises a binding post and a test paddle. The test paddle includes a body portion, a stud, a contact and a handle. The body portion has a stud opening, a contact opening associated with the stud opening and a barrier extending from a first end of the body. The contact extends through the contact opening and is electrically coupled to the stud. The handle is coupled to the body and configured for grasping by an individual's hand to promote insertion and removal of the test paddle from the relay. The binding post includes a cover configured for rotating the binding post, the cover having an inner chamber for receiving an insert of the binding post. The insert is configured to couple test equipment to the stud on the test paddle for testing relay switches.

Abstract: A solenoid health monitoring system uses a signal conditioner and controller assembly in one embodiment that includes analog circuitry and a DSP controller. The analog circuitry provides signal conditioning to the low-level raw signal coming from a signal acquisition assembly. Software running in a DSP analyzes the incoming data (recorded current signature) and determines the state of the solenoid whether it is energized, de-energized, or in a transitioning state. In one embodiment, the software identifies key features in the current signature during the transition phase and is able to determine the “health” of the solenoid.

Abstract: A method for detecting failure of a relay operating in a vehicle having an ignition switch, a power supply, a capacitor, and a pre-charge circuit to pre-charge the capacitor with the relay switching power from the power supply to the pre-charged capacitor, the method comprising the steps of: performing a capacitor pre-charge test; and performing a capacitor discharge test. Preferably, the capacitor pre-charge test is performed when the ignition is switched ON and the capacitor discharge test is performed when the ignition is switched OFF.

Abstract: An apparatus for measuring an operating parameter of a relay armature operating a pair of relay contacts, and for controlling the voltage that occurs between the pair of relay contacts when they open or close. The apparatus includes a microcontroller that senses a reference voltage, and a sensed voltage signal that comprises a voltage component representing a relay coil voltage, a power supply voltage component, and a voltage component induced by a motion of the armature. The microcontroller uses discrete digital samples of the signals to deduce the operating parameter. The microcontroller provides a control signal to cause the relay to open or close the relay contacts at a time when a predefined voltage occurs therebetween. The predefined voltage can be substantially zero volts. Methods of use of the apparatus to control the opening and closing of relay contacts are described.

Abstract: An apparatus for testing a switch is provided that permits the performance of a switch to be reliably tested and to precisely determine a host of parameters that collectively define the performance of the switch. The apparatus includes a stage upon which the switch is mounted. The apparatus also includes an actuator for actuating the switch and a positioning device, such as a micrometer, for controllably positioning at least one of the actuator and the stage such that the actuator actuates the switch. The apparatus may also include a measurement device for monitoring the electrical condition of the switch as its state is altered. For example, the measurement device may monitor a measure representative of the electrical resistance such as voltage drop across at least two contacts of the switch. Additionally, the measurement device may monitor travel of at least one of the actuator and the stage.

Abstract: The present invention is a remotely actuated emergency stop (E-stop) switch, with equipment control circuitry, providing a method for testing the E-stop switch and control circuitry to assure circuit and switch integrity, anytime, without equipment operational interruption, and without negating the manual actuation function of the E-stop switch to immediately cut all power to the equipment. The E-stop switch includes a first relay governing a first control circuit and a second relay governing a second control circuit. Each control circuit governs a motor source control contactor, which, when closed, provides power to the equipment. Transferring energization, and motor control, from the first control circuit to the second control circuit, and vice-versa, allows testing, in turn, of the de-energized components of the E-stop switch and control circuitry while the equipment remains operational. Remote actuation and circuit monitoring and testing is controlled by a Program Logic Controller (PLC).

Abstract: A power switching control device and methods for using the same to control a magnetic actuator within a power switching device are disclosed. The power switching control device uses a series of modulated current pulses to control a magnetic actuator within a power switching device. The power switching control device inputs a power signal and applies a series of modulated current pulses through the coil of the magnetic actuator in a first direction such that the actuator moves from a first position to a second position. Certain operating characteristics of a power switching device can be ascertained by analyzing the impedance of the magnetic actuator coil within the power switching device. The power switching device control device also has an improved energy management system therein. In this manner, the controller includes a voltage regulator that has the ability to switch between operating modes.

Abstract: A method for inspecting relay open/close contacts for a contact weld is provided, each relay open/close contact being connected serially to each of a plurality of battery pack blocks. Battery ECUs for controlling the operating condition of each of the battery pack blocks employ one battery pack block for transmitting an inspection signal and the other battery pack blocks for receiving the inspection signal, such that the transmitting battery ECU transmits the inspection signal with its open/close contact closed. When any one of the other battery pack blocks receives the inspection signal at its battery ECU in which its open/close contact has not been closed, the open/close contact is determined to be welded. This inspection is performed successively with the transmitting and receiving battery ECUs being employed alternately in order to check the plurality of open/close contacts and their secondary open/close contacts for a contact weld.

Abstract: A component actuation circuit for an engineered safety features actuation system (ESFAS) includes a plurality of coincidence logic contacts, and a plurality of parallel-connected ESFAS component relays. Each of the coincidence logic contacts closes in response to a command signal. The plurality of parallel-connected ESFAS component relays are connected in series between at least two of the plurality of coincidence logic contacts. Closure of at least two of the coincidence logic contacts energizes the parallel-connected ESFAS component relays, thereby energizing a plurality of ESFAS components.

Abstract: An apparatus for testing an electrical relay is disclosed which comprises a portable housing and an electrical testing circuit within the housing for performing a plurality of types of tests on the relay. A connector arrangement is provided for connecting the electrical testing circuit to the relay and a display is provided for displaying the results of the tests.

Abstract: A relay circuit test extender is adapted to facilitate testing of relays and relay circuits in a vehicle. The test extender includes a plurality of elongated bundled wires having first and second opposing ends, and adapted for carrying current in an electric circuit between a vehicle relay receptacle and a removable electric relay. A male connector is located at the first end of the bundled wires, and includes a plurality of electric pins electrically connected to respective wires and adapted for being inserted into respective pin openings of the vehicle relay receptacle. A female connector is located at the second end of the bundled wires, and defines a plurality of pin openings adapted for receiving respective pins of the removable electric relay.

Abstract: A method for inspecting relay open/close contacts for a contact weld is provided, each relay open/close contact being connected serially to each of a plurality of battery pack blocks. Battery ECUs for controlling the operating condition of each of the battery pack blocks employ one battery pack block for transmitting an inspection signal and the other battery pack blocks for receiving the inspection signal, such that the transmitting battery ECU transmits the inspection signal with its open/close contact closed. When any one of the other battery pack blocks receives the inspection signal at its battery ECU in which its open/close contact has not been closed, the open/close contact is determined to be welded. This inspection is performed successively with the transmitting and receiving battery ECUs being employed alternately in order to check the plurality of open/close contacts and their secondary open/close contacts for a contact weld.

Abstract: An electric power system relay includes a simulator that substitutes test values of current and voltage for sensed values for use by relay logic to perform specified relay functions, but without loss of the relay protection functions. The sensed values of current at least are monitored even while the test values are being used by the relay logic. If the monitored sensed values exceed a threshold value, a data switch operates to return to use of the sensed current and voltage values by the relay logic. In addition, the sensed values of current and voltage replace the test values, if a time interval longer than that required to perform the specified relay functions using the test values has expired.

Abstract: In order to assist persons of limited skill or time to test electromechanical or other relays without the need for VOM testing and time-consuming test setup, switching circuits, current sources are used in an automated test set with a stored program which tests the impedance between each terminal of the relay and every other terminal of the relay, identifies the terminals for the relay coil and for the relay's contact terminals and whether the contacts are NO, NC, or double throw type. The test set notes the presence or absence of a coil-suppression device across the coil, repetitively tests operation of the contacts, and informs the human operator, in simple terms, if the relay is operable and safe for use with delicate drive circuits.

Abstract: In order to assist persons of limited skill or time to test electromechanical or other relays without the need for VOM testing and time-consuming test setup, switching circuits, current sources are used in an automated test set with a stored program which tests the impedance between each terminal of the relay and every other terminal of the relay, identifies the terminals for the relay coil and for the relay's contact terminals and whether the contacts are NO, NC, or double throw type. The test set notes the presence or absence of a coil-suppression device across the coil, repetitively tests operation of the contacts, and informs the human operator, in simple terms, if the relay is operable and safe for use with delicate drive circuits.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for ensuring increased accuracy of individual relays (e.g., within a control system including a sensor) to close substantially coincidentally with respect to a current zero-crossing of an incoming power supply waveform. To determine timing of contact operation, a microcontroller operates the contacts in response to one of a series of test pulses, and determines the amount of time required for contact operation. The difference between timing of contact operation and zero-crossing is determined and adjusted to offset errors incurred by microcontroller threshold variations and power supply voltage variations. The calibrated value is then provided to the sensor in order to extend sensor life.

Abstract: An abnormality detection apparatus, which reduces erroneous detection of an open abnormality of a relay, includes a microcomputer that activates the relay and determines whether the output voltage of the relay is less than a threshold value. When the output voltage is less than the threshold value, the microcomputer repeats the activation of the relay and the determination. The detection unit detects the occurrence of an open abnormality when the repetition number exceeds two.

Abstract: A relay circuit test extender is adapted to facilitate testing of relays and relay circuits in a vehicle. The test extender includes a plurality of elongated bundled wires having first and second opposing ends, and adapted for carrying current in an electric circuit between a vehicle relay receptacle and a removable electric relay. A male connector is located at the first end of the bundled wires, and includes a plurality of electric pins electrically connected to respective wires and adapted for being inserted into respective pin openings of the vehicle relay receptacle. A female connector is located at the second end of the bundled wires, and defines a plurality of pin openings adapted for receiving respective pins of the removable electric relay.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for ensuring increased accuracy of individual relays (e.g., within a control system comprising a sensor) to close substantially coincidentally with respect to a current zero-crossing of an incoming power supply waveform. To determine timing of contact operation, a microcontroller operates the contacts in response to one of a series of test pulses, and determines the amount of time required for contact operation. The difference between timing of contact operation and zero-crossing is determined and adjusted to offset errors incurred by microcontroller threshold variations and power supply voltage variations. The calibrated value is then provided to the sensor in order to extend sensor life.

Abstract: A power switching control device and methods for using the same to control a magnetic actuator within a power switching device are disclosed. The power switching control device uses a series of modulated current pulses to control a magnetic actuator within a power switching device. The power switching control device inputs a power signal and applies a series of modulated current pulses through the coil of the magnetic actuator in a first direction such that the actuator moves from a first position to a second position. Certain operating characteristics of a power switching device can be ascertained by analyzing the impedance of the magnetic actuator coil within the power switching device. The power switching device control device also has an improved energy management system therein. In this manner, the controller includes a voltage regulator that has the ability to switch between operating modes.

Abstract: A method for fault detection in the operation of sensors with at least two decoupled signal-transmitting elements with contacts and with a closed conductor loop includes delaying, a first test output by a defined switching delay with reespect to a second test output and evaluating the input channels in accordance with a defined expectation. Faults being inferred from deviations between actual and expected signal variations and time intervals.

Abstract: A mimic filter which can be implemented in analog or digital circuitry, and which removes dc offset or other noise from an input signal using a pseudo-differentiation technique. The input signal is adjusted by a feedback value, and the adjusted signal is amplified by a proportional gain factor to generate an output signal. The feedback value is determined by integrating the output signal and multiplying the integration by an integration gain factor. The mimic filter avoids the generation of false signal spikes.

Abstract: A relay circuit test extender is adapted to facilitate testing of relays and relay circuits in a vehicle. The test extender includes a plurality of elongated bundled wires having first and second opposing ends, and adapted for carrying current in an electric circuit between a vehicle relay receptacle and a removable electric relay. A male connector is located at the first end of the bundled wires, and includes a plurality of electric pins electrically connected to respective wires and adapted for being inserted into respective pin openings of the vehicle relay receptacle. A female connector is located at the second end of the bundled wires, and defines a plurality of pin openings adapted for receiving respective pins of the removable electric relay.

Abstract: A relay test apparatus useful for the testing of three-phase differential protection relay systems with up to three windings including the corresponding current transformers (Cts). Especially for differential protection relays, which protect a three phase transformer, the transformer with its vector group (delta and wye windings including phase shift) is simulated within the test software. From the simulation the injected test currents are calculated and applied to the relay (via current signal generators), and the reaction of the relay is measured back (via a trip contact). This is a common technique for relay text apparatus. Normally the magnitude of the injected signals has to be specified. The characteristics are differential projection relays are specified as operating characteristics in an IDiff/IStab two-dimensional plane and as trip time characteristics in the t over IDiff plane.

Abstract: A relay test set of reduced size and weight includes a small, highly efficient voltage and current source. The test set incorporates a Class D switching amplifier design that greatly reduces the size of the power source needed to inject the correct voltage and current into the secondary inputs of a protective relay. To further reduce the size, weight and cost of the relay test set, a single voltage amplifier is used to drive both voltage and current secondary inputs of a protective relay. In so doing, this test set then becomes both a voltage transformer and current transformer simulator utilizing a single voltage power source at reduced size, weight and cost. To make the power source variable while maintaining accuracy, a microcomputer module is used to monitor both current and voltage being injected into the protective relay.