Engine-driven generator

US5376877A · kind A · utility

Assignee

• GENEIAL LLC · JP

Inventors

• Robert D. Kern · Waukesha, US
• Gerald C. Ruehlow · Oconomowoc, US
• Graham W. McLean · Grafton, GB
• Michael R. Wheeley · San Diego, US
• Frank Wedel · Superior, US
• Mark Kastner · New Berlin, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jun 11, 1992
• Grant date: Dec 27, 1994
• Expiry date: Jun 11, 2012

Classification

• Technology area (CPC F): Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
• CPC primary: F02B63/042
• WIPO field: Engines, pumps, turbines
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

An engine-driven generator includes an internal combustion engine, a permanent magnet alternator and an AC to AC converter. The output frequency and voltage of the permanent magnet alternator are largely dependent on engine speed and the alternator load. The AC to AC converter converts the speed-dependent alternating current developed by the alternator to another alternating current whose frequency and voltage are largely independent of engine speed. Voltage regulation is provided by varying the engine speed in accordance with the load current. Frequency regulation is provided by frequency dividing the alternator output by an integer divisor that varies in accordance with engine speed. Additional voltage regulation is provided by deleting selected cycles of the alternator output current as needed to maintain the RMS output voltage within predetermined limits.