Siemens Energy & Automation, Inc. Patent applications |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20110074242 | Method of Tuning Bending and Torsion Stiffness of Ducted Rotor Core of An Induction Motor - Electrodymamic machine rotating mass, including for example induction motor rotors, stiffness tuning methods include selective orientation and compression of modular tie rod assemblies into through bores formed in the rotor lamination core outboard of the rotor shaft during motor manufacture, repair or refurbishment. Stiffness tuning enables a motor manufacturer to tune a rotor's rotordynamic stability, and hence the assembled motor's critical vibration speed. Electrodynamic machine rotating mass tuning can be adjusted in response to machine physical design, operational application and manufacturing variation attributes that impact the assembled machine's critical vibration frequency. Thus the present invention offers a systematic, holistic approach to motor vibration refinement through use of a simple kit of modular tie rod assemblies oriented and tightened in a selected array. Rotor stiffness tuning can be tested virtually on computer work stations. Additional actual rotor stiffness tuning can be performed during manufacture. | 03-31-2011 |
20110074236 | Self Contained Bearing Lubrication System for High Speed Induction Motor Operating on Oil Ring Lubricated Hydrodynamic Bearings - A lubrication system for an electrodynamic machine, for example an induction motor that has a housing including therein an internal oil sump and at least one oil ring hydrodynamic bearing, wherein the oil ring is in fluid communication with oil in the internal oil sump and replenishes oil in the bearing. The lubrication system functions independently and in parallel to the oil ring lubrication system and includes an electrically powered oil sump pump that is oriented within the internal oil sump. An oil intake is coupled to the oil sump pump and is in fluid communication with oil in the internal sump. An oil discharge line having a proximal end is coupled to the sump pump discharge. The distal end of the discharge line is oriented proximal the motor bearing, so that oil discharged therefrom replenishes oil in the bearing and shaft journal interface. The lubrication system oil discharge parameters are independent of the motor speed, load or physical orientation, and may be varied by a controller coupled to the oil sump pump. | 03-31-2011 |
20110068644 | INDUCTION MOTOR VENTILATED HEAT SHIELD FOR BEARINGS - A dynamoelectric machine, such as a totally enclosed fan cooled (TEFC) induction motor has a double-wall bearing housing heat shield that envelops and thermally isolates the bearing housing from the rest of the motor housing interior. The shield defines an air channel between the shield outer and inner walls. Optionally the air channel may be constructed to enable circulating air flow through a shield intake in communication with an air flow source, such as air ducted from the TEFC motor axial cooling fan. The air channel also defines an exhaust. Air flow within the air channel transfers heat out of the motor housing, lowering bearing housing operating temperature. Air flow rate may be varied in response to motor operational parameters. | 03-24-2011 |
20110038103 | Riser Bus Bar Positioning Block - A positioning block and method for spacing riser bus bars includes an insulating material body forming recesses along a longitudinal axis of the block, each recess for receiving an electric riser bus bar therein. A binding feature is formed adjacent to at least one wall of the recesses for securing the riser bus bar within the recess. A locator feature is formed between the walls of each recess for aligning the riser bus bar within the recess. | 02-17-2011 |
20110022751 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR AN IMPROVED MOTOR CONTROL CENTER - Methods, apparatus, and systems are provided for operating a motor control center. The invention includes determining a hardware configuration of functional modules within a motor control center; downloading the hardware configuration to a programmable logic controller; configuring a program to run on the programmable logic controller based on the hardware configuration; and executing the program. Numerous additional aspects are disclosed. | 01-27-2011 |
20100262298 | System and Method for Climate Control Set-Point Optimization Based On Individual Comfort - A system and method for calibrating a set-point for climate control includes a sensor network having a plurality of sensors configured to report a climate condition. A database is configured to receive reports from the sensors and generate one or more profiles reflecting at least one of historic climate control information and occupant preferences. A controller is configured to receive information from the profiles to generate a set-point based upon an optimization program. The optimization program is implemented to balance competing goals to generate the set-point for controlling climate control equipment in accordance with the set-point. | 10-14-2010 |
20100231230 | Calibration Module Shield and Protection Method - An apparatus and method for preventing access to calibration controls includes a primary cover including a connection device, an access opening and a first through hole. The primary cover is configured to exclude access to an underlying area. The access opening is located on the primary cover to permit access to the underlying area when securing the primary cover. A shield is configured to fit over the primary cover and prevent access to the access opening. The shield includes a latch portion configured to latch on a first end portion of the primary cover and a second through hole located at a second end portion and corresponding to the first through hole of the primary cover. A security mechanism is configured to be received in the first and second through holes such that the security mechanism shows signs of tampering when unauthorized access to the underlying area is attempted. | 09-16-2010 |
20100172119 | Power Delivery System Including Interchangeable Cells - A power cell system includes a structure that provides multiple power cell locations. The system also includes at least one regenerative power cell, and at least one non-regenerative power cell. The cell locations and power cells are sized and positioned so that each cell location may interchangeably accept either a regenerative power cell or a non-regenerative power cell. | 07-08-2010 |
20100156207 | System and Method for Managing Air Flow in a Motor - Certain exemplary embodiments can comprise a system for managing air flow within an induction motor, such as in the rotor assembly of the motor. The system can comprise a gap blocker to substantially impede air flow through radial apertures defined by and/or near end regions of the rotor conductor bars. | 06-24-2010 |
20100127807 | POSITION SENSOR FOR MECHANICALLY LATCHING SOLENOID - A magnetically latching solenoid and method of determining a position of a plunger contained therein. The solenoid includes a frame, a plunger configured to move through the frame between a first stable position and a second stable position, and at least one magnet mounted near the center of the frame such that a first and second magnetic fields are produced by the magnet through the frame and the plunger, wherein each of the first and second magnetic fields drive a separate portion of the frame into magnetic saturation depending on the position of the plunger. The solenoid also includes a first and second sensors mounted on the frame at different locations configured to detect and measure the first and second magnetic fields. The detected and measured magnetic fields are then used to determine the position of the plunger in the solenoid. | 05-27-2010 |
20100122942 | Multi-Machine Mail Sorting System - A sorting system for postal mail has a plurality of input sections capable of operating in parallel, each including a feeder that takes in mail pieces one at a time and a scanner that scans each mail piece for destination indicia. The system further includes a plurality of stackers each comprising at least one row of pockets in which mail is stacked, and a routing section or switch network effective to route mail in accordance with a sort scheme from any input section to any pocket of a stacker. The routing section uses diverts and merges so that mail can be conveyed to each stacker in accordance with a sort scheme implemented by a control system. | 05-20-2010 |
20100109438 | Emergency Lighting System - An emergency lighting system comprising an electrical panel board comprising a two-pole switched breaker with one pole controlled using an Emergency Remote Operated Relay. Each of the poles of the circuit breaker is fed by a single phase. The controlled pole feeds normal power to the lighting ballast operating under normal conditions. The non-controlled pole feeds constant power to at least one battery which provides back-up power to the light(s) in an emergency/power failed condition. The Emergency Remote Operated Relay further comprises a two pole circuit breaker (BQD 2P) with one of the poles connected to a Remote Operated Relay that is remotely controllable. | 05-06-2010 |
20100096962 | Electrical Insulation Barriers Having Knock Out Features - The present invention relates generally to a switchgear apparatus. More particularly, the invention encompasses an electrical insulation barrier having knock-out features for a switchgear apparatus. The present invention also relates to enclosures for switchgear, panel boards, circuit breakers, and more particularly to an enclosure for low voltage switchgear and switchboard assemblies. The enclosure can be a walk-in type enclosure or a non-walk-in type enclosure. This invention further provides a rear barrier for switchgear vertical (section) bus insulation assembly. The rear barrier is made from a brittle material, such as, for example, a thermoset insulating material, a glass reinforced polyester laminate (GPO-2 or GPO-3) material, and has a plurality of knock-out pass-through-openings for the bus bars and other hardware. These inventive knock-out design features have been incorporated in the rear barrier to produce openings in these rear barriers by knocking-out pre-defined shapes to allow a clearance for intersecting electrical parts. With this invention a single master or universal-type part can be made and used in many configurations and locations dependant on the design of the switchgear. This invention also consolidates many single use barriers into a few master parts where an assembly technician can customize the rear barrier to fit the desired application. | 04-22-2010 |
20100084188 | Method For Knock Out Feature In Brittle Material - The present invention relates generally to electrical insulation barriers. More particularly, the invention encompasses an electrical insulation barrier having knock-out features for an electronic apparatus. The electrical insulation barrier is preferably made from a brittle material, such as, for example, a thermoset insulating material, a glass reinforced polyester laminate material (such as, for example, GPO-1, GPO-2, GPO-3), and the like. The electrical insulation barrier is preferably used to insulate and/or isolate electrical conductors. With this invention a single master or universal type part can be made and used in many configurations and locations dependent on the design of the electronic apparatus. The invention allows for the creation of one or more opening in the electrical insulation barrier by knocking-out or removing one or more pre-defined shapes to allow clearance for intersecting electrical parts. With this invention one can consolidate many single use electrical insulation barriers into a few master parts that the user can customize to fit the application by removing the knock-outs as desired. The present invention also relates to electrical insulation barrier for switchgear, panel boards, and circuit breakers, along with electrical insulation barrier for low voltage switchgear and switchboard assemblies. | 04-08-2010 |
20100076612 | Systems, Devices, and/or methods for Managing Drive Power - Certain exemplary embodiments can provide a system, machine, device, manufacture, circuit, and/or user interface adapted for, and/or a method and/or machine-readable medium comprising machine-implementable instructions for, activities that can comprise, via a predetermined information device, for a predetermined excavating machine comprising a plurality of Active Front Ends, each Active Front End electrically coupled to an AC power supply network of said predetermined excavating machine, each Active Front End adapted to provide DC power to a DC bus, said DC bus electrically coupled to a plurality of inverters, each inverter adapted to supply AC power to at least one operating motor, independently controlling a reactive power produced by each Active Front End. | 03-25-2010 |
20100075590 | Passive Ventilation For Outdoor Electrical Enclosures - The present invention relates generally to outdoor enclosures. More particularly, the invention encompasses passive ventilation for an outdoor electrical enclosure. The present invention is also directed to a novel passive ventilation apparatus that is secured to an outdoor electrical enclosure. The novel passive ventilation apparatus has at least one vent or opening or gap to allow for the ventilation of air, moisture, humidity, and other fluids from an outdoor electrical enclosure. The outdoor electrical enclosure also has at least one venting means to vent air, moisture, humidity, or other fluids from inside the outdoor electrical enclosure. The outdoor electrical enclosure also has at least one means to prevent any debris from falling inside the outdoor electrical enclosure. | 03-25-2010 |
20100075546 | Retainer, Lay-in Lug Assembly Nut Plate Retainer - The present invention relates generally to a lay-in lug nut plate retainer. More particularly, the invention encompasses a nut plate retainer for a lay-in lug assembly nut plate. The present invention is also directed to a novel lay-in nut plate retainer which provides an alternative way to secure a nut plate to a lay-in lug body during shipping and/or the installation process. The inventive nut plate retainer has a cover with an open area and at least two legs to surround a portion of the lay-in lug and the nut plate. | 03-25-2010 |
20100073113 | Electromagnet Assembly Directly Driving Latch Of An Electronic Circuit Breaker - A circuit breaker includes a trip unit and an electronic fault detection unit sharing a common trip latch for causing the circuit breaker to trip upon detection of a fault by either unit. The circuit breaker has an electromagnet for causing the circuit breaker to trip upon detection of a fault by an electronic fault detection unit. The electromagnet is oriented in the housing proximal the trip latch without any components interposed between them, and directly attracts the latch. Advantageously the electromagnet orientation does not impact operation or the range of motion of the latch or other trip unit components. Advantageously the circuit breaker of the present invention does not increase the trip latch mass, its bulk swept volume through its range of motion or require additional linkage components that potentially might increase trip cycle time. In some embodiments the electromagnet core is reciprocable. | 03-25-2010 |
20100072896 | Panel Board Emergency Lighting System - An emergency lighting system comprising an electrical panel board comprising a phase layout comprising a plurality of consecutively arranged phases wherein a pair of consecutive phases are of the same phase, a 2-pole branch circuit breaker electrically connected to the pair of consecutive phases that are of the same phase, and a 1-pole remotely-operated-relay electrically connected to one pole of the 2-pole branch circuit breaker. The emergency lighting system further comprises an emergency lighting fixture comprising a normal power input electrically connected to the load side of the 1-pole remotely-operated-relay such that the normal power input is connected to one phase of the plurality of phases, an emergency power input electrically connected to the load side of the 2-pole branch circuit breaker such that the emergency power input is electrically connected to the two consecutive phases of the same phase. The emergency lighting fixture further comprises a neutral power input and a battery electrically connected to the emergency power input. | 03-25-2010 |
20100052655 | Self Contained Kilowatt-Hour meter Integral to Standard Load Center - The present invention relates generally to a load center. More particularly, the invention encompasses a self contained kilowatt-hour meter which is integral to a standard load center. The present invention is also directed to a novel printed circuit board and housing for the self contained kilowatt-hour meter. The self contained kilowatt-hour meter of this invention measures the energy usage of a facility, such as, residential unit, a house, an apartment, a condominium, and then it communicates the energy usage in a timely manner or as desired to a local requester, such as, the owner, occupant or any other entity, as well as, to another requester, such as, a remote requester, for example, an energy provider. | 03-04-2010 |
20100025378 | PIVOTING BARRIER FOR CONTACT ARM PROTECTION - A circuit breaker includes a pivoting arc barrier that is interposed between the moving contact arm axis of motion and the moving contact, so that arc gasses are deflected away from the contact arm structure. The pivoting arc barrier pivots in a complimentary motion path with that of the moving contact arm so that an arc shield face is interposed between the contact separation arc generated around the moving contact and the remaining arm structure to it which the moving contact is affixed throughout the range of contact arm operational motion. The pivoting arc barrier moves independently of the moving contact arm and advantageously does not increase the contact arm mass or bulk swept volume through its range of motion. | 02-04-2010 |
20100024199 | Method For Correcting Slow Roll By Heating and Quenching - An apparatus and method for correcting slow roll in a rotatable shaft is disclosed. A sensing area of a shaft is heated to a predetermined temperature while rotating the shaft in order to change electrical properties of the sensing area of the shaft. Coolant is applied to non-sensing areas of the shaft adjacent to the sensing area while the sensing area is being heated. The sensing area of the shaft is maintained at the predetermined temperature for a predetermined amount of time, and the sensing area of the shaft is quenched with coolant immediately after the predetermined amount of time in order to cool the sensing area of the shaft to room temperature. | 02-04-2010 |
20100023896 | METHOD OF DESIGNING A MULTI-WINDING DEVICE - A method for designing a transformer using three secondary winding phase shift angles and a minimized core cross-sections. The method includes receiving an indication of an acceptable level of total harmonic distortion (THD) for the transformer, identifying a desired number of secondary windings per output phase of the transformer, simulating performance of various models for the transformer various potential phase shift angles, wherein each of the various models includes a set of phase shift angles for the secondary windings of the transformer. The method further includes identifying, based on the simulation, a transformer model that both has no more than three unique phase shift angles in the set and exhibits a primary side THD that is within the acceptable level, identifying an optimized core cross-sections, and reporting the identified transformer model having the three unique phase shift angle and the optimized core cross-sections. | 01-28-2010 |
20100023600 | DEVELOPMENT, TEST, AND DEMONSTRATION OF AUTOMATION SOLUTIONS USING WEB-BASED VIRTUAL COMPUTERS AND VPN TUNNELING - The present invention relates generally to an Internet based management of software and/or hardware. More particularly, the invention encompasses the development, test, and demonstration of automation solutions using web-based virtual computers and VPN (Virtual Private Network) tunneling. The present invention is also directed to a novel concept of storing various versions of a software and/or demo programs at a virtual data base which is accessible via a VPN (Virtual Private Network) tunnel. | 01-28-2010 |
20100020453 | Modular Circuit Breaker - The present invention relates generally to a circuit breaker. More particularly, the invention encompasses a modular circuit breaker. The present invention is also directed to a novel a modular circuit breaker with a trip bar. The inventive two pole residential circuit breaker includes an Arc Fault and Ground Fault electronic detection system. The modular breaker design includes an electronic system used for tripping a designated mechanism pole which in turn trips the secondary mechanism pole. Electronic components are included that sense the continuous current flow through each mechanism pole simultaneously to determine when a trip event is needed. The electronic system of this invention includes a self diagnostic system with electronic visual indicators that display the method of which trip condition occurred. | 01-28-2010 |
20100013491 | Device, System and Method For Automatic Self-Test For A Ground Fault Interrupter - A self-test circuit is provided that includes a signal circuit adapted to periodically output a circuit inhibitor signal to inhibit a breaking signal from a ground fault detector. The signal circuit is also adapted to periodically output a test signal simulating a ground fault. The self-test circuit also includes an alarm circuit adapted to receive an output signal from the ground fault detector in response to detecting the ground fault, and adapted to output an alarm when the ground fault detector is not operative. The signal circuit may be further adapted to periodically output a second test signal simulating a grounded neutral condition. A ground fault circuit interrupter system and a method are also provided. | 01-21-2010 |
20100007085 | Mail Sorting Machine with Improved Diverter Panel - A diverter panel comprises an elongated rectangular panel made of a substantially flat plate made of clear plastic. The plate has fasteners mounted at its front corners for mounting the panel to a frame of the sorting machine, a rear upright flange extending from the plate along the length thereof, the flange having a bottom edge which can be supported on a horizontal beam of the sorting machine. The panel is rigid enough such that vibration of the sorting machine does not cause significant movement of the panel when secured at its corners and with the rear flange supported by the beam of the sorting machine. An opening in the rear flange and an adjacent portion of the plate allows a drive shaft to pass therethrough, and a contact pad formed by an outwardly projecting portion of the rear flange is configured for engagement with a plunger of a switch. | 01-14-2010 |
20100005922 | Positive Handle Stop for Switches - The present invention relates generally to handle stops. More particularly, the invention encompasses a positive handle stop for a switch. The positive handle stop for a switch, such as, a safety switch, prevents the handle of a switch from returning to the shipping position once the switch is turned ON. The invention also includes a shipping position for the inventive handle so as to reduce the size of the packaging need to ship the switch apparatus. | 01-14-2010 |
20090323247 | INTRINSICALLY SAFE CIRCUIT FOR DRIVING A SOLENOID VALVE AT LOW POWER - A system and method for providing an intrinsically safe (IS) circuit for driving a solenoid valve at a low power is disclosed. A voltage source generates a first voltage and is connected to a first side of the solenoid valve. A voltage inverter is connected to the voltage source and generates a second voltage from the first voltage. The second voltage is of opposite magnitude to the first voltage. A controller selectively controls the first voltage and the second voltage to be applied to the solenoid valve. In order to actuate the solenoid valve, the first voltage is applied to the first side of the solenoid valve and the second voltage is applied to the second side of the solenoid valve. In order to hold the solenoid valve in an on position, the first voltage is maintained and the second voltage is no longer applied to the second side of the solenoid valve. This circuit utilizes a reduced voltage, which allows the use of capacitance high enough to effectively drive a solenoid valve while still being compliant with IS standards due to a common, lower voltage magnitude. Also, this circuit allows for higher power solenoids to comply with IS standards. Further, this circuit is certifiable as IS without complex and expensive testing procedures. | 12-31-2009 |
20090302682 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR REDUCING SWITCHING LOSSES IN A HIGH-FREQUENCY MULTI-CELL POWER SUPPLY - A method of reducing switching losses in a power supply includes the steps of advancing the output voltage of a first pole of a power cell by a first angle, retarding the output voltage of a second pole of the power cell by a second angle, and producing a combined output voltage of the power cell equal to a positive pulse of a duration angle equal to the sum of the first angle and the second angle for a first half of a switching cycle of the power cell, and equal to a negative pulse of a duration angle equal to the sum of the first angle and the second angle for a second half of the switching cycle of the power cell. | 12-10-2009 |
20090299720 | Circuit protection and control device simulator - A power circuit protection and control device simulator emulates in real time identical circuit protection and control functions performed by the actual device being simulated and generates real time simulated operational information concerning at least one of the device or the power circuit. A human-machine interface, such as through a web browser, allows a user to input power circuit operational parameters, such as motor current and load, and device variable circuit protection and control operational parameters, such as trip class, ground fault detection or phase unbalance protection. The simulator displays in real time simulated operational information on the human-machine interface. The simulator may be used to simulate operation of an electronic overload relay and an electric motor controlled by the relay. | 12-03-2009 |
20090273350 | Systems and Methods for Detecting Wire Breaks - A circuit is provided that includes a power source and a sensor circuit electrically coupled by a switch to the power source. The circuit further includes an A/D converter electrically coupled to the sensor circuit and adapted to read a voltage difference across a resistive element to determine an impedance of the sensor circuit. A method is provided that includes closing a switch electrically coupling a power source to a sensor circuit and measuring a voltage difference across a resistive element at an A/D converter electrically coupled to the sensor circuit. The method further includes determining an impedance of the sensor circuit based on the voltage difference. | 11-05-2009 |
20090272859 | High Density Mail Sorting Cart - A mail cart for use in manual sorting of mail pieces according to the inventions includes a generally rectangular frame and wheels mounted on the frame for rolling support of the cart on a floor. A bottom, substantially horizontal shelf is secured to the frame along with a first inclined shelf secured to the frame above the bottom shelf and spaced from the bottom shelf in a vertical direction, which first inclined shelf extends forwardly and upwardly at an acute angle relative to a horizontal plane. A second inclined shelf is secured to the frame above the first inclined shelf and spaced from the first inclined shelf in a vertical direction. The second inclined shelf extends forwardly and upwardly at an acute angle relative to a horizontal plane, which angle is preferably the same as the angle of first shelf. | 11-05-2009 |
20090251852 | Field Rephaseable Modular Metering Devices - A field rephaseable metering device is provided including at least three distribution buses including two side buses and a center bus, the center bus having a vertical center line. At least one meter socket is provided having a vertical center line offset from the vertical center line of said center bus, each meter socket including a first line terminal and a second line terminal. At least two line straps are provided, each having a first end configured for connecting with one of the first or second line terminals, and a second elongate end configured to be selectively connectable to one of the side buses associated with its line terminal or the center bus. When each line strap is positioned to connect one of the line terminals with one of the distribution buses, a longitudinal axis of each line strap is substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of each distribution bus. | 10-08-2009 |
20090248329 | ARC FAULT ROOT-CAUSE FINDER SYSTEM AND METHOD - The present invention is directed to an arc fault root-cause finder apparatus and method for determining the root-cause of an arc fault condition. In one embodiment, the arc fault root-cause finder apparatus has a sensing base module mounted to a load panel box having at least one circuit breaker that protects a corresponding branch circuit. The sensing base module has sensing electronics that are electrically connected to the at least one circuit breaker and are configured to sense the occurrence of arcing events in the branch circuit. The sensing base module includes wireless communication electronics to (i) effect transmission of electrical signals that provide information about the occurrence or absence of arcing events in the branch circuit, and (ii) to receive command signals. The arc fault root-cause finder apparatus also has a remote user interface module that has wireless communication electronics configured to establish communication with the sensing base module so as to receive signals transmitted by the sensing base module and to transmit control signals to the sensing base module. The remote user interface module has a visual display device to display information received from the sensing base module about the branch circuit. | 10-01-2009 |
20090247005 | Wire Distributed 5th Jaw System For Multi-Position Metering - The present invention relates generally to multi-position metering apparatus. More particularly, the invention encompasses a wire distributed 5th jaw system for multi-position metering. The present invention is also directed to a novel multi-position metering device with multiple optional 5th terminals. The invention further provides a way to use a single wire as potential to connect all 5th terminals in a multi-position metering device. A single wire with insulation, one end of which is connected to line neutral, is laid out to pass by all meter sockets through designated channel on each meter socket base. The single wire is then stripped on a specified area when it passes on each meter socket for electrical connection to a 5th terminal through a potential. Additionally, an inventive meter socket base has been designed to constraint the 5 | 10-01-2009 |
20090244816 | Generator Ready Load Center - The present invention relates generally to a load center. More particularly, the invention encompasses a generator ready load center (GRLC). The present invention is also directed to a novel generator ready load center (GRLC) that operates as a standard load center but is ready to accommodate an automatic transfer switch (ATS) for a standby generator, or a manual transfer switch (MTS) for a portable generator. Further the generator ready load center provides an automatic and manual transfer between primary and secondary power sources. The generator ready load center solves the problem of dangerous back-feeding between the primary power source and the secondary power source. | 10-01-2009 |
20090242366 | Side Entry Circuit Breaker - A circuit breaker enables selective left, right or a combination of both side connection to a power conductor, such as a cable or wire. Side connection eliminates the need for large radius U-bends of the power conductor that is normally required when using top connection circuit breakers. An electrically non-conductive cavity commonly defined by left and right sides of the circuit breaker housing receives the power conductor in a connector such as a lug. The circuit breaker may have a visualization window oriented to observe whether excessive cable is projecting out of the lug, so as to confirm compliance with electrical code over surface spacing requirements. In some embodiments, the circuit breaker lugs are vertically oriented above its front cover surface in a receptacle portion of the housing. The receptacle may be constructed for selective lug orientation in horizontal or vertical positions by the installer. | 10-01-2009 |
20090237026 | System and Method for Drive Controller Anti-Backlash Control Topology - Method and system for backlash control in gear trains that are driven by electric drives controlled by a drive controller. The drive controller causes the drives to generate continuously opposing torques and adjusts torque rotational offsets so as to maintain desired backlash and gross motion of the driven gear. | 09-24-2009 |
20090218980 | AC Motor Controller - A system, method, and device for monitoring an AC induction motor are disclosed. The exemplary system provides the architecture of an intelligent motor controller. On one hand, the controller has self-commission and adaptive tuning capability and can provide smooth start and stop for motor driven systems. On the other hand, the controller can provide fault detection, power metering, and history data logging, to ensure motor operates under optimal conditions. The exemplary system may have one or more sensors for monitoring characteristics of the AC induction motor and producing one or more inputs from the characteristics. | 09-03-2009 |
20090212724 | Method for Braking an AC Motor - A system for braking a motor. The system includes at least one resistor and a contactor connected to the at least one resistor and a motor. The system further includes a variable frequency drive electrically connected to the motor, wherein the variable frequency drive comprises a controller operably connected to the contactor, wherein at least a portion of the contactor closes connecting the at least one resistor to the motor in response to a command from the controller. The variable frequency drive is configured such that motor flux levels may be maintained at a relatively high level as motor torque current is reduced, resulting in a consistently high motor flux level as the motor speed decreases. | 08-27-2009 |
20090212022 | Circuit Breaker Compartment Arc Flash Venting System - The present invention relates generally to a switchgear apparatus. More particularly, the invention encompasses a circuit breaker compartment arc flash venting system for a switchgear apparatus. The present invention also relates to enclosures for switchgear, panel boards, circuit breakers, and more particularly to an enclosure for low voltage switchgear and switchboard assemblies. The enclosure can be a walk-in type enclosure or a non-walk-in type enclosure. This invention further provides a method and apparatus for channeling plasma (hot arc gasses) that are generated from an arc. The circuit breaker compartment arc flash venting system is an integral part of an arc resistant switchgear assembly. The arc flash venting system works in conjunction with the bus insulation and ventilation systems in the switchgear apparatus to channel hot arc gasses (plasma) from a breaker compartment in the event of an internal arcing fault in the breaker compartment. The gasses are channeled to exit the upper rear of the breaker compartment and into the insulated section bus compartment. The hot arc gasses and other particulates then travel upward through the section bus compartment where they are routed to and safely discharged from the vent structure on the roof of the switchgear apparatus. | 08-27-2009 |
20090211883 | MULTI-POLE HANDLE LOCK FOR CIRCUIT BREAKERS - A multi-pole handle lock having a base plate and movable locking plate assembly that is adapted to mount on to at least two circuit breakers. A handle restrictor plate is mounted on the base plate for translational movement while maintaining the circuit breaker handles in the same position as each other. The handle restrictor plate allows each handle to independently move to the tripped position, while allowing the restricted circuit breakers to operate as a logical group. The low profile of the plates, allows visual inspection of the handle ends to determine their tie status. | 08-27-2009 |
20090207559 | BASEPAN ASSEMBLY FOR A METERING DEVICE - A basepan assembly for hook-on attachment onto a metering device is provided including a basepan support having at least two insert latches disposed at a first end and a side flange disposed at a second opposite end. A basepan body is provided being insertable onto said basepan support and including an inside wall configured to be attachable to a barrier of the metering device, as well as an outside wall, a bus stab chamber, and a hold-down insert configured to be attachable to the basepan body, the hold-down insert further having a side barrier. A top load stab having a first end affixable to the hold-down insert is provided and a bottom load stab insertable within said bus stab chamber is provided. | 08-20-2009 |
20090206964 | MECHANICAL INTERLOCK FOR CIRCUIT BREAKER TO PREVENT RELATCHING OF THE BREAKER - An apparatus and method for restricting auxiliary latch movement within a tripped circuit breaker. An auxiliary latch is held in a closed state and is biased into an open state. When the trip bar is activated in response to an overload condition, it releases the auxiliary latch which pivots to the open state. The cradle is released and pivots to disengage the breaker contact. Tabs on the cradle and auxiliary latch cooperatively interlock to limit auxiliary latch movement until the latch is properly reset. | 08-20-2009 |
20090206862 | Adjustable Electrical Probes for Circuit Breaker Tester - An electrical probe assembly includes a first probe housing pivotally connected to a base structure and receiving a first probe therein. The first probe is configured to interface with a first contact of an electrical component. A second probe housing is pivotally connected to the base structure and receives a second probe therein. The second probe is configured to interface with a second contact of the electrical component wherein the first and second contacts have a spatial relationship therebetween. An adjustment mechanism is connected to the first and second housing and configured to independently adjust an amount of rotation of the each of the housings to accommodate the spatial relationship. | 08-20-2009 |
20090205941 | Multi-Pole Armature Interlock For Circuit Breakers - A multi-pole circuit breaker and method include at least two breaker modules including circuit breakers therein. The circuit breakers include a moveable arm configured to connect and disconnect contacts therein. The at least two modules including armatures connectable to the moveable arms of each of the at least two modules. A center module connects the at least two modules. The center module includes an actuator and a beam connected to the actuator at a mid-portion. The beam connects to each armature of the at least two modules wherein under a trip condition the actuator displaces the beam to simultaneously trip the at least two modules using the armatures. | 08-20-2009 |
20090205939 | Moisture Resistant Push to Test Button For Circuit Breakers - A circuit breaker includes a housing forming an opening. A push switch is connected to a test circuit to enable testing of the test circuit in accordance with closing the push switch. A flexible membrane is formed in the opening and configured to form a seal between the housing and the flexible membrane. The flexible membrane is located in an operative relationship with the push switch such that pushing the flexible membrane results in a displacement of the push switch. | 08-20-2009 |
20090200273 | Mounting Base With Arc Plenum - The present invention relates generally to a switchgear apparatus. More particularly, the invention encompasses a mounting base with are plenum for a switchgear apparatus. The present invention also relates to enclosures for switchgear, panel boards, circuit breakers, and more particularly to an enclosure for low voltage switchgear and switchboard assemblies. The enclosure can be a walk-in type enclosure or a non-walk-in type enclosure. This invention further provides a method and apparatus for channeling plasma (hot arc gasses) that are generated from an arc. The switchgear mounting base with internal arc plenum can be an integral part of an arc resistant switchgear assembly and is preferably located under the switchgear. The switchgear mounting base works in conjunction with a ventilation system in the switchgear apparatus to channel hot arc gasses (plasma) from the lower breaker compartments in the front of the switchgear in the event of an internal arcing fault in one of the breaker compartments. The hot arc gasses exit downward from the bottom of the switchgear and into the plenum. The gasses then are channeled to travel backward through the plenum and then up again into the switchgear rear compartment where they can be routed to and safely discharged from the roof of the switchgear apparatus. | 08-13-2009 |
20090200271 | Self-Adjusting Plug-In Line Terminal - A line terminal for a circuit breaker includes a body forming two opposing legs and a third leg. The opposing legs are configured to form a passage for receiving a stab from a panel board. The two opposing legs are biased toward each other, and each of the opposing legs has a convex surface facing the passageway for engaging and maintaining alignment of the stab. A fixed contact is attached to the third leg. The fixed contact connects to a moveable contact of a circuit breaker. An arc runner is connected to the third leg and at least partially encloses a perimeter of the fixed contact. | 08-13-2009 |
20090198459 | Multifunctional Residential Circuit Breaker - An electrical fault detection device for use in a branch of a power circuit that utilizes signals from an AC line current sensor coupled to an electrical distribution line having a primary and neutral lines, a line high-frequency sensor coupled to the electrical distribution line, a differential current sensor coupled to the primary and neutral lines, and a ground fault current sensor coupled to the primary and neutral lines. A signal conditioner receives the signals outputted by AC current line current sensor, the line high frequency sensor, the differential current sensor and the ground fault current sensor and generates a signal indicative of the load current associated with a branch of the power circuit. Output of the signal conditioner is sampled and processed by a processing resource. The processing resource has stored therein data representing a plurality of time-versus-current curves that define a plurality of regions in which tripping may or may not occur. One region has time data and current data that define a time-duration for a particular current magnitude for which no tripping will occur. Another region has time data and current data that define a time-duration of a particular current magnitude for which tripping will occur. Processing resource processes sampled signal to determine the region to which the processed time data and current data correspond, and generates a signal to initiate tripping if the sampled signal yields a time duration for a particular current magnitude that corresponds to a region for which tripping must occur. | 08-06-2009 |
20090189719 | Circuit Breaker Locking And Unlocking Mechanism - A circuit breaker and method include main contacts configured to connect in an on position and be separated in an off position. A handle is coupled to one of the main contacts to adjust the contacts between the on position, the off position, a trip position and an over on position. Secondary contacts are configured to provide power when connected using the handle in the over on position, even when the main contacts are separated. A stop mechanism configured to maintain separation between the main contacts to enable testing using the secondary contacts to power a test circuit such that if a test passes, the stop mechanism is released to permit resetting of the main contacts. | 07-30-2009 |
20090189615 | Method and Apparatus For Testing AFCI Device for Series ARC Detection - A method and apparatus for testing an AFCI device. In one embodiment, the method comprises the steps of providing an AFCI device to be tested and a load, wherein the AFCI device and the load form an electrical circuit, applying AC power to the AFCI device, generating a high frequency broadband noise signal, amplifying the high frequency broadband noise signal to provide an amplified high-frequency noise signal, modulating the amplified high frequency noise signal with a signal synchronized to the load current or load voltage to provide synchronized high frequency broadband noise bursts, coupling the synchronized high frequency broadband noise bursts into the electrical circuit to simulate series arcing signals, determining if the AFCI device opens the electrical circuit within a predetermined amount of time, indicating the AFCI device has passed the test if the AFCI opens the electrical circuit within the predetermined amount of time, and indicating the AFCI device has failed the test if the AFCI device fails to open the electrical circuit within the predetermined amount of time. | 07-30-2009 |
20090188893 | Devices, Systems, and Methods for Managing a Circuit Breaker - Certain exemplary embodiments can provide a system, which can comprise a wafer that defines an opening. The wafer can be adapted to be operatively installed between a mechanical portion of a circuit breaker and an electronic portion of the circuit breaker. When installed, the wafer can be adapted to receive a protrusion of the mechanical portion of the circuit breaker. | 07-30-2009 |
20090177328 | System and method for shaft heat treament for correction slow roll - Certain exemplary embodiments comprise a method comprising a plurality of activities comprising, for a shalt of an electric motor, the shaft comprising a runout sensing area: determining an electrical runout value for the runout sensing area; rotating the shaft; and/or heating the runout sensing area of the shaft sufficient to reduce the electrical runout value. | 07-09-2009 |
20090174516 | SYSTEM FOR ISOLATING A MEDIUM VOLTAGE - A signal isolating transformer may be arranged such that a first coil of the signal isolating transformer is located in a medium voltage compartment and a second coil of the signal isolating transformer is located external to the medium voltage compartment. The transformer spans an opening defined by a grounded wall to isolate faults in the medium voltage compartment. | 07-09-2009 |
20090174508 | Circuit Breaker with Electronic Sensing and De-Latch Activation - A circuit breaker and method includes a mechanical pole moveable between a latched position and an unlatched position to open an electrical connection between a pair of electrical contacts. An electronic tripping device is configured to respond to a sensor signal. The sensor signal is output from a condition sensor wherein upon receiving the sensor signal the electronic tripping device trips the mechanical pole into the unlatched position. | 07-09-2009 |
20090140871 | Devices, Systems, and Methods for Managing a Circuit Breaker - Certain exemplary embodiments can provide a fault detection system, which can comprise a circuit breaker that is adapted to protect an electrical circuit. The circuit breaker can comprise a screen adapted to render a user interface. The user interface can comprise an arc fault detection circuit status indicator indicative of an automatic detection of an electrical circuit arc fault by the circuit breaker. | 06-04-2009 |
20090139913 | High Capacity Sweepside Mail Cart and Method of Use Thereof - A postal cart according to the invention includes a base on wheels and a support frame mounted on the base. An upper shelf and a lower shelf are mounted at the top and bottom of the frame and accessible from a front side of the cart. A series of rectangular compartments are accessible from the front side of the cart, each compartment configured for storage of one postal tray filled with mail, but insufficiently wide to store more than one such postal tray side by side in the same compartment. A number of pull out sliding shelves are mounted along the bottom of no more than about half of the compartments, the remaining compartments being free of the sliding shelves. The compartments are configured to fit one tray in each. The vertical density of the compartments is greater than would be possible if a sliding shelf were disposed in all of the compartments. | 06-04-2009 |
20090114575 | Method and System for Tracking of Items - The invention provides a system and method for enabling manual sorting items to one of several designated areas associated with delivery destinations. The system includes a conveyor for transporting a stream of items. A video camera is positioned to capture an image of an observation zone to read destination data on the item as it is transported on the conveyor and the location of the item as it continues on the conveyor. A control computer is used in which destination data is stored associating the destination data for an item with a location of the item on the conveyor, and operable to track the location of the item by video tracking with the same camera as the item moves out of an observation zone into an unloading zone. A video projector projects an image onto the item on the conveyor in the unloading zone that includes human-readable instructions for disposition of the item. | 05-07-2009 |
20090113409 | System and Method For Updating Software Using Updated Data From External Sources - A system and method for automatically updating reference values includes a processing device configured to execute a software application. The software application employs one or more dynamic data items which change as a function of time. A memory device is configured to store at least one table including the one or more dynamic data items which change as a function of time. An update mechanism is configured to check one or more external information sources for current values of the one or more dynamic data items and update the one or more dynamic data items in the at least one table such that upon execution of the software application a most recently updated value is employed for the one or more dynamic data items. | 04-30-2009 |
20090084716 | Method and System for Weighing Mail Pieces - A method and system is described for determining the physical weights of flat articles being sorted without actually weighing the articles. Such a method includes the steps of; receiving volume information for individual flat articles from sensors, comparing that resultant data to classifiers stored in computer memory, and assigning a weight value associated to the physical flat article. | 04-02-2009 |
20090083705 | Systems, Devices, and/or Methods for Managing Program Logic Units - Certain exemplary embodiments can provide a system, which can comprise a block processor. The block processor can be adapted to automatically render a list of automatically described modifications to a first version of a block of a software program adapted to control a programmable logic controller (PLC). The first version can differ from an original version of the block. | 03-26-2009 |
20090083589 | Systems, devices, and/or methods for managing communications - Certain exemplary embodiments can provide a system, which can comprise a programmable logic controller (PLC). The system can comprise a serial communications port connected to the PLC. In certain exemplary embodiments, the system can comprise a controller adapted to enable a customer application program to access and control the serial communications port. | 03-26-2009 |
20090083553 | DUAL PROCESSOR POWER SUPPLY - A power supply includes multiple power cells and a master control system in communication with each of the power cells. The master controller includes a control processor configured to receive power cell control information and a host in communication with the control processor wherein the host is configured to receive command and status information. | 03-26-2009 |
20090083522 | Systems, Devices, and/or Methods for Managing Programmable Logic Controller Processing - Certain exemplary embodiments can provide a programmable logic controller, which can comprise a Reduced Instruction Set Computer (RISC) processor. The RISC processor can be adapted to, responsive to a received request to process a Boolean operation, execute a single processor data access instruction addressed to a region of a memory-mapped register corresponding to the Boolean operation. | 03-26-2009 |
20090082882 | Devices, Systems, and Methods for Reducing Signals - Certain exemplary embodiments can provide a system, which can comprise a circuit adapted to cause an actuation of an output device according to a control output. The control output can be generated comprising a control signal, the control signal extracted from a sequence of clock pulses. The sequence of clock pulses can comprise the control signal. | 03-26-2009 |
20090080490 | Systems, Devices, and/or Methods for Managing a Thermocouple Module - Certain exemplary embodiments can provide a system, which can comprise a thermocouple input module. The thermocouple input module can be adapted to determine one or more calibration factors. The thermocouple input module can be adapted to store the calibration factors. The thermocouple input module can be adapted to apply the calibration factors to an incoming thermocouple voltage value to obtain an adjusted thermocouple voltage value. | 03-26-2009 |
20090080147 | ELECTRONIC MODULE AND INTERLOCKING BUS SYSTEM INCLUDING SAME - An electronic module. The electronic module includes a bus bar system and a power plug connector connected to the bus bar system. The power plug connector is configured to receive a portion of a system bus. | 03-26-2009 |
20090079612 | Systems and/or Devices for Providing an Isolated Analog Output or Analog Input - Certain exemplary embodiments can provide a method, which can comprise transmitting a recovered analog input signal to a programmable logic controller. The recovered analog input signal can be converted, on a downstream side of an isolation device, from a converted signal. The recovered analog input signal can have a voltage value that varies according to a frequency value of the converted signal. | 03-26-2009 |
20090079289 | System and Method with a Rotor Having Parallel Sided Rotor Bars - The present invention relates generally to motor rotors. More particularly, the invention encompasses a motor rotor having at least one rotor bar. The invention also includes a system and method with a rotor having parallel sided rotor bars. The rotor bar preferably has a core and at least one layer of a rotor bar shim. | 03-26-2009 |
20090078550 | HANDLE OPERATOR LINKAGE WITH SEALING MEANS - The present invention relates generally to linkage means. More particularly, the invention encompasses a handle operator linkage with sealing means. The present invention is also directed to a novel linkage for controlling switches or breakers, and more particularly to a linkage for use as a double throw switch for controlling two switches or breakers mounted in the same enclosure so that only one switch can be ON at any given time, and the second switch would automatically be in an OFF state. | 03-26-2009 |
20090078548 | MULTI-POSITION PUSHBUTTON WITH INTEGRAL LED AND ACTUATOR - The present invention relates generally to pushbutton actuators. More particularly, the invention encompasses a pushbutton | 03-26-2009 |
20090077533 | PARAMETRIC REGULAR OBJECT TYPES WITH COMPREHENSIONS FOR AUTOMATED GENERATION OF SOFTWARE TEST FIXTURES - A system and method for creating abstract descriptions of general applications includes creating a library of code primitives and expressing skeletal code structures in terms of parametric regular tree types including parameterized declarations of the code primitives. Parametric values are generated using set comprehensions. The set comprehensions are applied to the skeletal code structures to generate a working application such that a parametric, regular object type system is combined with a comprehension syntax for creating abstract descriptions of a general application. | 03-19-2009 |
20090073622 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR BYPASSING A POWER CELL OF A POWER SUPPLY - A system for bypassing a power cell of a power supply, the system including a multi-winding device having a primary winding and a plurality of three-phase secondary windings, a plurality of power cells, wherein each power cell is connected to a different three-phase secondary winding of the multi-winding device, and a bypass device connected to first and second input terminals of at least one of the power cells and to first and second output terminals of the at least one of the power cells. | 03-19-2009 |
20090065341 | Double Break Disconnect/Contact System - The present invention relates generally to a mechanism of a contact system for circuit breakers. More particularly, the invention encompasses a mechanism for a rotary double-break contact system, which enables a direct transfer of torque from stored energy components, such as, springs, to the contact arm in the ON-position (contacts closed) without using intermediate cam surface. The mechanism described in the invention also ensures reliable locking of the contact arm in the blow-off position using stationary means that are integral with or fixed to a crossbar module. This invention enables to achieve significant reduction or even to eliminate friction at certain critical interfaces between the contact mechanism components, thus, reducing or potentially eliminating hysteresis, and improving performance consistency, and also eliminating mechanism performance dependency on wear level and condition of an intermediate cam surface. An additional feature of this invention is a reduction of a loss of contact torque/force during over-travel in the ON position when the fixed and/or moveable contacts erode. Configurations described in this invention may also feature physical protection for the moving components of the contact mechanism assembly from flying particles resulting from short circuit shots. | 03-12-2009 |
20090065339 | Extended Drive Plate Rotary Handle - The present invention relates generally to a rotary handle. More particularly, the invention encompasses an improved support bracket for a deliberate action rotary handle. The invention further includes an improved support bracket to support an extended drive-plate deliberate action rotary handle, such that to turn on a component, such as, a circuit breaker, requires a deliberate manual action by the user. If a deliberate action is not taken by a user but the handle is accidentally pushed then the handle does not engage with a drive shaft and the handle moves to an outer edge of a drive plate thus preventing the engagement of the handle with the other components to turn on the component. | 03-12-2009 |
20090063760 | Systems, devices, and/or methods to access synchronous RAM in an asynchronous manner - Certain exemplary embodiments can provide a method, which can comprise, via a state machine implemented as an application specific integrated circuit, responsive to an automatically detected asynchronous RAM interface signal, automatically transmitting a corresponding synchronous RAM interface signal. The state machine can be communicatively coupled to a programmable logic controller. | 03-05-2009 |
20090063739 | Systems, and/or Devices to Control the Synchronization of Diagnostic Cycles and Data Conversion for Redundant I/O Applications - Certain exemplary embodiments can provide a first analog input module adapted to, via a sent synchronization signal, automatically terminate a diagnostic cycle of a second analog input module. The synchronization signal can be adapted to cause an initiation of a data conversion cycle at the second analog input module. | 03-05-2009 |
20090058584 | THREE-PHASE MULTI-WINDING DEVICE - A three-phase, multi-winding includes a core, the core including a hub and an outer shell around a perimeter of the hub. wherein the hub and the outer shell are in a fixed position with respect to each other. The core also includes multiple slots. In addition to the core, the multi-winding device includes a primary winding positioned in at least two of the slots; and multiple spatially distributed secondary windings, wherein at least one of the secondary windings is positioned proximate the primary winding in at least one of the two slots. | 03-05-2009 |
20090048704 | Process and System for Tracking of Mail - A process of tracking mail during postal handling includes an initial step of sorting an incoming stream of mail on an automated sorting machine to a series of pockets based on a sort scheme. During sorting, RFID-tagged, machine-sortable markers are introduced into the incoming mail stream at intervals and the RFID-tagged markers are sorted with the mail into pockets of the sorter. Mail and markers are swept from the pockets into trays, and the markers are introduced such that at least one marker is swept to each of a set of trays containing the sorted mail. The trays containing the mail and markers are then transported away from the automated sorting machine. During a postal operation subsequent to the initial sorting, one or more of the RFID-tagged markers are scanned to identify mail from the initial sorting. | 02-19-2009 |
20090016018 | ELECTRONIC MODULE CONFIGURED FOR FAILURE CONTAINMENT AND SYSTEM INCLUDING SAME - An electronic module. The electronic module includes a chassis, a plurality of capacitors, and a heat sink. The chassis includes a first end and a second end. The first end is opposite the second end. The chassis also includes a first side, a second side, a third side, and a fourth side. The second side is opposite the first side. The third side is connected to at least one of the first and second sides. The fourth side is connected to at least one of the first and second sides, and is opposite the third side. The chassis is fabricated from a material which stops component debris from passing through the sides of the chassis. The capacitors are positioned within the chassis. The heat sink is positioned between the capacitors and the second end. | 01-15-2009 |
20090009362 | LED traffic signal without power supply or control unit in signal head - A traffic signal is provided for controlling vehicular traffic. The traffic signal includes a light source ( | 01-08-2009 |
20090009149 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR LIMITING INPUT VOLTAGE TO A POWER DELIVERY SYSTEM HAVING REGENERATION CAPABILITY - A system and method for limiting input voltage to a power delivery system having regeneration capability. According to various embodiments, the system includes a regulator having a multiple input variables and at least one output variable; and an accumulator in communication with the regulator wherein the accumulator presets the output of the regulator to facilitate a quick output as well as accumulates error values related to the multiple input variables and facilitates a change by the regulator to the at least one output variable based upon the accumulated values. | 01-08-2009 |
20080304235 | ELECTRONIC MODULE CONFIGURED FOR AIR FLOW THERETHROUGH AND SYSTEM INCLUDING SAME - An electronic module. The electronic module includes a chassis, a plurality of capacitors, a plurality of bus bars, and a heat sink. The chassis includes a first end and a second end. The first end is opposite the second end. The capacitors are positioned within the chassis, and at least one of the capacitors is proximate the first end. The bus bars are positioned within the chassis proximate the second end. The heat sink is positioned between the capacitors and the bus bars. The capacitors, the heat sink and the bus bars are positioned such that when an airflow enters the chassis at the first end, a portion of the airflow sequentially comes in contact with the capacitors, the heat sink, and the bus bars before exiting at the second end. | 12-11-2008 |
20080296130 | CONVEYOR CAROUSEL WITH DISTRIBUTED DRIVE SYSTEM - A carousel according to the invention uses a number of smaller, less expensive drive units at different locations along the carousel path in place of a single larger drive unit of comparable capacity. Closed loop control according to the invention allows individual drives to be de-energized when the power requirements do not demand their usage. When not energized, the drives may be disengaged from the chain, such as by means of a linear actuator as described hereafter. Benefits of such a system include reduced mechanical costs, longer drive life, better redundancy/higher availability, correct drive power, lower energy use, closed loop system monitoring and reduced collateral damage. | 12-04-2008 |
20080295998 | INTEGRATED WATER CURRENT CONNECTION FOR MOTOR DRIVE - A system for cooling a multi-cell power supply, the system including a water pump, a water-to-air heat exchanger in fluid communication with the water pump, and a supply water manifold in fluid connection with the water-to-air-heat exchanger. The system further includes a plurality of power cells in fluid communication with the supply water manifold via one or more water hoses, and a multi-winding device in fluid communication with the plurality of power cells via at least one water-cooled bus, wherein the at least one water cooled bus electrically connects the power cells to secondary windings of the multi-winding device. The water-cooled buses provide both electrical current as well as cooling fluid to each winding of the multi-winding device, thereby eliminating a need for separate cooling and power connections. | 12-04-2008 |
20080264513 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR RECONFIGURING A HARNESS BOARD - A reconfigurable harness board system and method is provided for assembling a wire harness for an electrical panel and comprises a plurality of sub-harness modules. Each module defines a template for a wire harness for a select electrical component for the electrical panel. Select ones of the sub-harness modules are mounted to a frame in a select orientation corresponding to layout of electrical components for the electrical panel to create a harness board for assembling a wire harness for the electrical panel. | 10-30-2008 |
20080258672 | METHOD OF STARTING A SYNCHRONOUS MOTOR WITH A BRUSHLESS DC EXCITER - A starting method and system for a motor where the motor may be started as an induction motor by applying a magnetizing current to build flux through the stator, with the field current set at the maximum permissible exciter stator current (i.e., the current that will cause rated no-load current in the main field at the transition speed). The motor stator currents will be maintained at a value that allows the motor to generate sufficient breakaway torque to overcome any stiction. At a specific transition speed or after a period of time, the drive will initiate a transition from induction motor control to synchronous motor control by removing the initial magnetizing current, and a field current is then applied to the motor through the DC exciter. Once this transition is completed, the drive may ramp up to the desired speed demand. | 10-23-2008 |
20080212344 | Methods for Managing Electrical Power - Certain exemplary embodiments comprise a system comprising a plurality of Active Front End units adapted to be electrically coupled to a direct current (DC) bus. Each of the plurality of Active Front End units can be adapted to be electrically coupled to a separate winding of a transformer of a plurality of transformers. Each of the plurality of Active Front End units can be adapted to convert alternating current (AC) voltage to a DC voltage. Each of the plurality of Active Front End units can be adapted to supply the DC voltage to the DC bus. The DC bus can be adapted to be electrically coupled to a plurality of inverters. | 09-04-2008 |