Multi-function vehicle starter and alternator and method therefor
US6133702A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 18, 1998 |
| Grant date | Oct 17, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 18, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02T10/62
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A multi-function apparatus and a method for performing the functions of a starter, alternator and engine stabilization system for an engine of a motor vehicle. The apparatus comprises a rotor, a stator and a switching/detection system associated with the stator. The stator comprises three independent stator sectors which each comprise a plurality of independent stator coils. The rotor comprises a plurality of rotor poles about its periphery. The rotor is secured to the flex plate of the engine and the stator sectors are secured to the bell housing of the vehicle's power train. The stator coils each protrude through opening formed in the bell housing such that the rotor poles are closely adjacent the stator coils without contacting the stator coils as the rotor rotates. The switching/detection system is used to detect the positions of the rotor poles relative to the stator coils and selectively energizes various groups of stator coils for very brief, predetermined time intervals to cause movement of the rotor and therefore assist in starting of the engine. In the alternator mode energy generated in the stator coils is returned to the vehicle's battery. In the engine stabilization mo…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.