Apparatus using a neural network for power factor calculation
US5450315A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 26, 1994 |
| Grant date | Sep 12, 1995 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 26, 2014 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB23K11/252
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A weld controller utilizes a neural network to compute power factor of a secondary circuit of a welding transformer supply power to a workpiece through a pair of welding electrodes. Phase controlled switches supply power to the transformer and the neural network uses the phase angle at the time of energization of the switches and the length of time that the switches conduct to compute the power factor. The computed power factor is compared with previous computations of power factor online and any changes are interpreted as changes in resistance of the secondary circuit. This provides a measure of contact wear and the weld controller can compensate for these changes by increasing weld power. The neural network is adaptable for use with other types of control systems.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.