David A Swartz

US Patent:

6693778, Feb 17, 2004

Filed:

Dec 7, 2000

Appl. No.:

09/730534

Inventors:

Wayne A. Pittman - Milpitas CA
David P. Swartz - San Jose CA

Assignee:

Sensotec, Inc. - Columbus OH

International Classification:

H02H 300

US Classification:

361 42, 361 20, 361 23, 361 44

Abstract:

The new Ground Fault Detection and Diode Fault Detection (GFD/DFD) Systems have rotating and stationary component assemblies. The rotating assembly has four interface modules, which are normally encapsulated, in a specially configured support ring. The GFD/DFD Systems support ring assembly is bolted to the brushless exciter. The brushless exciter is attached to a generator or motor. The GFD/DFD System support ring is provided power by an induction loop antenna attached to a stationary Induction Power Supply (IPS). A Receiver Control Unit provides power to the IPS and receives and conditions the RF (radio frequencies) data transmitted from the GFD/DFD System support ring assembly. These units together provide the means to detect ground faults, to detect diode faults, and to activate alarm lights and electrical control signals for normal and faulty operating conditions.