Engine-driven generator

US5504417A · kind A · utility

Assignee

• GENEIAL LLC · JP

Inventors

• Robert D. Kern · Waukesha, US
• Gerald C. Ruehlow · Oconomowoc, US
• Herb Hoenisch · Waukesha, US
• Mark J. Sarder · Waukesha, 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: Jul 27, 1994
• Grant date: Apr 2, 1996
• Expiry date: Jul 27, 2014

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 potential developed by the alternator to another alternating potential 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. A stepper motor coupled to the throttle of the internal combustion engine controls the speed of the engine in accordance with commands received from an electronic system control.