Method and system for controlling an alternator to optimize direct current output
US5642021A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 4, 1995 |
| Grant date | Jun 24, 1997 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 4, 2015 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH02P9/48
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A method and system for maximizing the output of an alternator in an automotive vehicle. An alternator is provided having a first rectifier connectable to a first output of the alternator to form a first winding configuration and a second rectifier connectable to a second output of the alternator to form a second winding configuration. Based on the speed of the alternator, a controller operatively couples one of the first and second rectifiers to the first and second outputs, respectively, so as to maximize output current of the alternator. If the speed of the alternator is below a predetermined speed range, the controller couples the first output of the alternator to the first rectifier. Alternatively, if the speed of the alternator is above the predetermined speed range, the controller couples the second output of the alternator to the second rectifier.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.