Alternator with external cooling system
US9912210B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 5, 2014 |
| Grant date | Mar 6, 2018 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 10, 2035 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH02K5/207
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Systems and methods are provided for cooling an alternator using a fan that is operationally independent of the alternator and a duct system that at least partially surrounds the alternator. Example vehicles include an alternator cooling system that comprises a fan configured to be operationally independent of the alternator and disposed adjacent to an end of the alternator, and a duct system encasing the end of the alternator. The vehicles further include a control module configured to control operation of the fan based on one or more inputs related to operation of the alternator. Example methods include receiving, at a processor, an input related to operation of the alternator; determining, based on the input, that a preset condition has been met, using the processor; and responsive thereto, generating a control signal to adjust an operating speed of the fan.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.