Abstract:
A switched reluctance drive is supplied from a power source. The phases of the machine are controlled by a current controller which uses an excitation strategy to minimize the supply current drawn for a particular output. The strategy alternates the excitation between two phases for a given time until the rotor moves to a desired position. A method of starting a switched reluctance motor having a stator with at least two phases, a moveable part, and a position transducer includes determining from transducer output a plurality of phases that are available to produce force in a desired direction, energizing a first phase of the available phases for a predetermined time period that is independent of the transducer output, and energizing a second phase of the available phases after energization of the first phase is initiated.
Abstract:
DC power savings in a mobile communication device can be achieved by dynamically adjusting the biasing for a receiver based on the communication link quality. The output signal levels of at least one low noise amplifier (LNA) are monitored to identify the DC operating conditions for the LNA. Closed loop control of the DC biasing is adjusted based on a comparison between the monitored DC operating conditions and a reference signal. The output of the LNA is also coupled to a radio receiver section that is configured (e.g., SW or HW) to evaluate the link quality based on various criteria such as inter-modulation distortion, noise, interference, fading, etc. The reference signal that is used to control the DC biasing of the LNA is adjusted (periodically, continuously, or on demand) in response to the evaluated link quality. The dynamic biasing yields acceptable signal reception with low DC power consumption.
Abstract:
The present invention relates (with reference to FIG. 1) to an internal combustion engine in which a combustion chamber (12) can be connected to a reservoir (16) for storing compressed air. Gas flow control valve means (15) controls flow between the chamber (12) and reservoir (16) so that air pressurised in the chamber (12) can be relayed to charge the reservoir (16) and pressurised air can be delivered to the chamber (12) to drive piston (10). The chamber (12) is also used for combustion of fuel. The invention also relates to a valve mechanism for controlling the flow of pressurised air between the chamber (12) and reservoir (16), in which a balancing force is applied to the gas flow control valve (115) to cancel the force on the valve (115) arising from the pressure applied to the back face of the valve (115).
Abstract:
An array of photoconductive elements comprises an array of radiation detectors; an electrical lead connected to the array of radiation detectors; at least one amplifier receptive of an output signal of the array of radiation detectors; a summation device receptive of an output signal of the at least one amplifier; and a positive feedback loop for reducing crosstalk by directing an output signal of the summation device to the at least one amplifier. A circuit processes the outputs of the array of radiation detectors. The photoconductive elements may be operated in a constant voltage mode or a constant current mode.
Abstract:
A device monitors an appliance that receives power from a source. The device includes a first coupler that couples the device to the power source. A second coupler couples the device to the appliance. A monitoring circuit is connected to the first coupler and the second coupler to monitor power supplied by the source to the appliance. A communications circuit also is provided. The monitoring circuit provides data based on the monitored power to the communications circuit for output to the first coupler. The communications circuit may include a receiver that receives a signal from the first coupler to control the monitoring circuit. The communications circuit also may include a transceiver that receives a signal from the first coupler to control the monitoring circuit and to transmit monitored power data.
Abstract:
A switched reluctance drive is operated as a generator on a high voltage supply which has no long-term energy storage capability. A low voltage supply is used to start the generator through the use of a dedicated priming winding, which provides sufficient energy to allow the generator to build up charge in DC link capacitor(s). Once sufficient charge has built up, the priming winding is de-energized and the generator continues in a steady-state operation.
Abstract:
A wearable waterproof storage system for protecting personal accessories, such as mobile phones and wallets, from water damage and/or the threat of theft. The system consists of a waterproof pouch with a screw-on cap, sewn into a wearable outer protective cover. Illustrated embodiments include a belted waist-pack and an article of clothing consisting of short trousers. The system is constructed from water-resistant and waterproof materials.
Abstract:
A current limiter for a rectifier circuit includes a fixed resistor 50 and a positive temperature coefficient (PTC) resistor 100 connected in series across a control switch 70. The control switch is connected between a rectifier output and a smoothing capacitor 20. If the switch fails to operate, the PTC resistor heats up, increasing its resistance in the presence of an abnormal current. The increased resistance will limit the current supplied to the rectifier output terminals 40.
Abstract:
A removable fuel cap for use in a quick-fill refueling system for a motorcycle during a motorcycle race. The fuel cap comprises a movable plunger in a cylindrical windowed housing, the plunger being normally held in a closed position by a coil spring. The cylindrical housing and plunger assembly is inserted into the fuel tank opening and is held in place by a threaded retaining cap that screws onto the threaded gas cap flange. The retaining cap has a circular opening that allows access to the plunger. The fuel cap works in concert with commercially available quick-fill fuel containers. The quick-fill fuel cap is easily and quickly removed by unscrewing the retaining cap and removing the plunger assembly.
Abstract:
A snap-on steering wheel assembly is provided with an integral airbag housing. The assembly includes a steering wheel having a hub, a plurality of support arms extending from the hub, and a rim connected to the support arms. An airbag housing is formed integrally with the hub for supporting the airbag. The hub is adapted for mating with a steering column shaft. A snap-on attachment arrangement is provided in cooperation between the hub and the steering column shaft so that the steering wheel may be snapped onto the steering column shaft.