Motor starting apparatus for an engine driven generator
US6118238A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 26, 1998 |
| Grant date | Sep 12, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 26, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH02P9/08
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A conventional motor controlling circuit is adapted to control an inverter that drives a permanent magnet generator as a motor to spin an engine to a speed sufficient to permit the engine to start. The commutation frequency is adjusted as a function of speed utilizing an automatic commutation frequency adjustment circuit. This circuit has multiple commutation frequency ranges that overcome a large initial bearing drag during low speed operation while still permitting high speed operation. The automatic commutation frequency adjustment circuit preferably generates first and second voltage ramps that overcome the initial bearing drag and accelerate the generator at a rate fast enough for sufficient back EMF to be generated for a closed-loop commutation phase. A speedup circuit operates during the closed-loop commutation phase to achieve the high speeds typically necessary for engine starting. The inventive circuits even permit a turbine type engine to be successfully started.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.