US5075608A
Expired / Lapsed
US
⏱️ 0.0 years remaining
Control system, electronically commutated motor system, draft inducer apparatus and method
Assignee: Individual
•
Filing: 1990-02-20
•
Granted: 1991-12-24
•
Expires: 2010-02-20
Abstract
Abstract A control system and method for an electronically commutated motor having a stationary assembly with a plurality of winding stages for carrying a motor current in response to application of a voltage having a magnitude subject to variations, the motor further having a rotatable assembly. The control system is adapted to receive control pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of a desired operating torque or speed for the motor. The control system and method are responsive to the motor current for generating a pluse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a pulse repetition rate having a duty cycle which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses. The PWM series of pulses are supplied to the commutating circuit as a pulsed signal whereby the operating torque or speed of the motor is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses and is substantially independent of variations in the magnitude of the applied voltage. The control system may be part of a draft inducer apparatus or method for use with a combustion chamber having an exhaust outlet including a fan for moving air through the exhaust outlet and thereby to induce a draft in the combustion chamber. A pressure sensor connected to the motor control apparatus may be located within the exhaust outlet.
Inventors
- 👤 David M. Erdman
- 👤 Mark A. Brattoli
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-10-30 15:16
CPC Classifications
F; F23; F23N; F23N3/00; F23N3/08; F23N3/082; F25; F25B; F25B49/00; F25B49/02; F25B49/025; G; G05; G05D; G05D23/00; G05D23/19; H; H02; H02K; H02K29/00; H02K29/06; H02K29/10; H02P; H02P6/00; H02P6/14; H02P6/16; H02P6/18; H02P6/182; F23N2233/00; F23N2233/02; F23N2233/04; F25B2600/00; F25B2600/02; F25B2600/021
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 93
Claim 1
Independent Claim
271 words
A control system for an electronically commutated motor having a stationary assembly with a plurality of winding stages for carrying a motor current in response to application of a voltage having a magnitude subject to variations, the motor further having a rotatable assembly, and which control system is adapted to receive control pulses having a duty cycle representing a desired operating torque for the motor, the control system for use with a commutating circuit for controlling power switching devices for applying the voltage to one or more of the winding stages at a time having a duty cycle which is a function of a pulsed signal and for commutating the winding stages in a preselected sequence to rotate the rotatable assembly, the control system comprising: means responsive to the motor current for generating a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a pulse repetition rate having a duty cycle which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses, the generating means adapted to supply the PMW series of pulses to the commutating circuit as the pulsed signal; means for comparing the applied voltage to a reference voltage; and means, responsive to the means for comparing, for increasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses as a function of decreases in the applied voltage and for decreasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses as a function of increases in the applied voltage whereby the operating torque of the motor is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulse and is substantially independent of variations in the magnitude of the applied voltage.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
271 words
A control system for an electronically commutated motor having a stationary assembly with a plurality of winding stages for carrying a motor current in response to application of a voltage having a magnitude subject to variations, the motor further having a rotatable assembly, and which control system is adapted to receive control pulses having a duty cycle representing a desired operating torque for the motor, the control system for use with a commutating circuit for controlling power switching devices for applying the voltage to one or more of the winding stages at a time having a duty cycle which is a function of a pulsed signal and for commutating the winding stages in a preselected sequence to rotate the rotatable assembly, the control system comprising: means responsive to the motor current for generating a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a pulse repetition rate having a duty cycle which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses, the generating means adapted to supply the PMW series of pulses to the commutating circuit as the pulsed signal; means for comparing the applied voltage to a reference voltage; and means, responsive to the means for comparing, for increasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses as a function of decreases in the applied voltage and for decreasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses as a function of increases in the applied voltage whereby the operating torque of the motor is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulse and is substantially independent of variations in the magnitude of the applied voltage.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
65 words
The system of claim 1 wherein said means for comparing comprises a comparator adapted to compare the applied voltage to an oscillating voltage signal and to provide a comparator output signal in response thereto, and a latch, responsive to the comparator output signal, adapted to inhibit the PWM series of pulses during the period that the oscillating voltage signal is greater than the applied voltage.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
67 words
The system of claim 1 further comprising means for generating a sum of a first voltage having a magnitude which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses and a second voltage having a magnitude which is a function of the motor current, and means for inhibiting the PWM series of pulses during the period that the sum is greater than the reference voltage.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
71 words
The system of claim 1 wherein said means for generating comprises means for comparing the motor current and a signal representing the duty cycle of the control pulses and providing an output signal in response thereto, and means for providing a series of pulses as the PWM series of pulses, each pulse having a width which is a function of the output signal of the means for comparing the motor current.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
84 words
The system of claim 4 wherein said means for comparing the motor current comprises means for generating a first voltage having a magnitude which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses, means for generating a second voltage having a magnitude which is a function of the motor current, means for summing the first and second voltages, and means for comparing the sum to a reference voltage to provide an output signal in response thereto as the PWM series of pulses.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
36 words
The system of claim 5 further comprising means, responsive to the means for comparing the sum, for selectively inhibiting the PWM series of pulses during the period that the sum is greater than the reference voltage.
Claim 8
Dependent Claim
70 words
The system of claim 6 wherein said means for comparing the sum comprises a comparator adapted to compare the sum to the reference voltage and to provide a comparator output signal in response thereto, and said means for selectively inhibiting comprises means, responsive to the comparator output signal, for conducting the PWM voltage away from said commutating circuit during the period that the sum is less than the reference voltage.
Claim 9
Dependent Claim
45 words
The system of claim 7 wherein said means for generating a first voltage comprises a dc level converter, said means for generating a second voltage comprises a motor current shunt, said means for summing comprises a summer and said means for conducting comprises a diode.
Claim 10
Dependent Claim
60 words
The system, of claim 8 wherein said means for increasing and decreasing comprises means, responsive to the means for comparing the applied voltage to a reference voltage, for increasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses when the applied voltage decreases and for decreasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses when the applied voltage increases.
Claim 11
Dependent Claim
72 words
The system of claim 9 wherein said means for comparing the applied voltage to a reference voltage comprises a comparator adapted to compare the applied voltage to an oscillating voltage signal and to provide a comparator output signal in response thereto, and a latch, responsive to the comparator output signal, adapted to inhibit the PWM series of pulses during the period that the oscillating voltage signal is greater than the applied voltage.
Claim 12
Dependent Claim
261 words
A control system for an electronically commutated motor having a stationary assembly with a plurality of winding stages for carrying a motor current in response to application of a voltage having a magnitude subject to variations, the motor further having a rotatable assembly, and which control system is adapted to receive control pulses having a duty cycle representing a desired operating torque for the motor, the control system for use with a commutating circuit for controlling power switching devices for applying the voltage to one or more of the winding stages at a time having a duty cycle which is a function of a pulsed signal and for commutating the winding stages in a preselected sequence to rotate the rotatable assembly, the control system comprising: means for generating a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses, the generating means adapted to supply the PWM series of pulses to the commutating circuit as the pulsed signal; means for comparing the applied voltage to a reference voltage; and means, responsive to the means for comparing, for increasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses as a function of decreases in the applied voltage and for decreasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses as a function of increases in the applied voltage whereby the operating speed of the motor is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses and is substantially independent of variations in the magnitude of the applied voltage.
Claim 13
Dependent Claim
261 words
A control system for an electronically commutated motor having a stationary assembly with a plurality of winding stages for carrying a motor current in response to application of a voltage having a magnitude subject to variations, the motor further having a rotatable assembly, and which control system is adapted to receive control pulses having a duty cycle representing a desired operating torque for the motor, the control system for use with a commutating circuit for controlling power switching devices for applying the voltage to one or more of the winding stages at a time having a duty cycle which is a function of a pulsed signal and for commutating the winding stages in a preselected sequence to rotate the rotatable assembly, the control system comprising: means for generating a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses, the generating means adapted to supply the PWM series of pulses to the commutating circuit as the pulsed signal; means for comparing the applied voltage to a reference voltage; and means, responsive to the means for comparing, for increasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses as a function of decreases in the applied voltage and for decreasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses as a function of increases in the applied voltage whereby the operating speed of the motor is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses and is substantially independent of variations in the magnitude of the applied voltage.
Claim 14
Dependent Claim
65 words
The system of claim 11 wherein said means for comparing comprises a comparator adapted to compare the applied voltage to an oscillating voltage signal and to provide a comparator output signal in response thereto, and a latch, responsive to the comparator output signal, adapted to inhibit the PWM series of pulses during the period that the oscillating voltage signal is greater than the applied voltage.
Claim 15
Dependent Claim
43 words
The system of claim 11 wherein said means for generating comprises means for comparing an oscillating reference signal and a signal representing the duty cycle of the control pulses and providing an output signal in response thereto as the PWM series of pulses.
Claim 16
Dependent Claim
78 words
The system of claim 13 wherein said means for comparing the applied voltage to a reference voltage comprises means for generating a first voltage having a magnitude which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses, means for generating a second voltage having a magnitude which is a function of the oscillating reference signal, means for comparing the first and second voltages and generating an output signal representative thereof as the PWM series of pulses.
Claim 17
Dependent Claim
40 words
The system of claim 14 wherein said means for comparing the first and second voltages comprises a comparator adapted to compare the magnitudes of the first and second voltages and adapted to provide a comparator output signal in response thereto.
Claim 18
Dependent Claim
31 words
The system of claim 15 wherein said means for generating a first voltage comprises a dc level converter and said means for generating a second voltage comprises a motor voltage sensor.
Claim 19
Dependent Claim
16 words
The system of claim 11 wherein said means for generating is responsive to the motor current.
Claim 20
Dependent Claim
65 words
The system of claim 17 wherein said means for comparing comprises a comparator adapted to compare the applied voltage to an oscillating voltage signal and to provide a comparator output signal in response thereto, and a latch, responsive to the comparator output signal, adapted to inhibit the PWM series of pulses during the period that the oscillating voltage signal is greater than the applied voltage.
Claim 21
Dependent Claim
49 words
The system of claim 18 wherein said means for generating comprises means for comparing the motor current and a current reference signal and providing an output signal in response thereto to inhibit the PWM series of pulses whenever the the motor current is greater than the current reference signal.
Claim 22
Dependent Claim
82 words
The system of claim 19 wherein said means for comparing the applied voltage to a reference voltage comprises means for generating a first voltage having a magnitude which is a function of the current reference signal, means for generating a second voltage having a magnitude which is a function of the motor current, means for summing the first and second voltages, means for comparing the sum to a reference providing an output signal in response thereto as the PWM series of pulses.
Claim 23
Dependent Claim
35 words
The system of claim 20 further comprising means, responsive to the means for comparing the sum, for inhibiting the PWM series of pulses during the period that the sum is greater than the reference voltage.
Claim 24
Dependent Claim
71 words
The system of claim 21 wherein said means for comparing the sum comprises a comparator adapted to compare the sum to the reference voltage and to provide a comparator output signal in response thereto, and said means for inhibiting comprises means, responsive to the comparator output signal, for conducting the PWM series of pulses away from said commutating circuit during the period that the sum is less than the reference voltage.
Claim 25
Dependent Claim
45 words
The system of claim 22 wherein said means for generating a first voltage comprises a dc voltage source, said means for generating a second voltage comprises a motor current shunt, said means for summing comprises a summer and said means for conducting comprises a diode.
Claim 26
Dependent Claim
73 words
The system of claim 11 further comprising a motor control apparatus adapted to control the motor by generating the control pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of a desired operating torque for the motor and the speed of the motor and further including means for providing a tachometer signal representative of the motor speed to the motor control apparatus whereby the control pulses are a function of the tachometer signal.
Claim 27
Dependent Claim
49 words
The system of claim 11 wherein the control pulses represent a desired operating torque or speed of the motor; further comprising means for selecting the motor current or the motor voltage as a control parameter; and wherein said means for generating is responsive to the selected motor operating condition.
Claim 28
Dependent Claim
67 words
The system of claim 11 further comprising means for generating a sum of a first voltage having a magnitude which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses and a second voltage having a magnitude which is a function of the motor current, and means for inhibiting the PWM series of pulses during the period that the sum is greater than the reference voltage.
Claim 29
Dependent Claim
262 words
A control system for power switching devices of an electronically commutated motor having a stationary assembly with a plurality of winding stages for carrying a motor current in response to application of a voltage having a magnitude subject to variations, the motor further having rotatable assembly, and which control system is adapted to receive control pulses having a duty cycle representing a desired operating torque for the motor, the control system comprising: means for controlling the power switching devices to apply a voltage having a duty cycle which is a function of a pulsed signal to one or more of the winding stages at a time and for commutating the winding stages in a preselected sequence to rotate the rotatable assembly; means responsive to the motor current for generating a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses, the generating means adapted to supply the PWM series of pulses to the controlling means as the pulsed signal; means for comparing the applied voltage to a reference voltage; and means, responsive to the means for comparing, for increasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses as a function of decreases in the applied voltage and for decreasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses as a function of increases in the applied voltage whereby the operating torque of the motor is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses and is substantially independent of variations in the magnitude of the applied voltage.
Claim 30
Dependent Claim
262 words
A control system for power switching devices of an electronically commutated motor having a stationary assembly with a plurality of winding stages for carrying a motor current in response to application of a voltage having a magnitude subject to variations, the motor further having rotatable assembly, and which control system is adapted to receive control pulses having a duty cycle representing a desired operating torque for the motor, the control system comprising: means for controlling the power switching devices to apply a voltage having a duty cycle which is a function of a pulsed signal to one or more of the winding stages at a time and for commutating the winding stages in a preselected sequence to rotate the rotatable assembly; means responsive to the motor current for generating a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses, the generating means adapted to supply the PWM series of pulses to the controlling means as the pulsed signal; means for comparing the applied voltage to a reference voltage; and means, responsive to the means for comparing, for increasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses as a function of decreases in the applied voltage and for decreasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses as a function of increases in the applied voltage whereby the operating torque of the motor is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses and is substantially independent of variations in the magnitude of the applied voltage.
Claim 31
Dependent Claim
71 words
The system of claim 27 wherein said means for generating comprises means for comparing the motor current and a signal representing the duty cycle of the control pulses and providing an output signal in response thereto, and means for providing a series of pulses as the PWM series of pulses, each pulse having a width which is a function of the output signal of the means for comparing the motor current.
Claim 32
Dependent Claim
67 words
The system of claim 27 further comprising means for generating a sum of a first voltage having a magnitude which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses and a second voltage having a magnitude which is a function of the motor current, and means for inhibiting the PWM series of pulses during the period that the sum is greater than the reference voltage.
Claim 33
Dependent Claim
258 words
A control system for power switching devices of an electronically commutated motor having a stationary assembly with a plurality of winding stages for carrying a motor current in response to applications of a voltage having a magnitude subject to variations, the motor further having a rotatable assembly, and which control system is adapted to receive control pulses having a duty cycle representing a desired operating speed for the motor, the control system comprising: means for controlling the power switching devices to apply a voltage having a duty cycle which is a function of a pulsed signal to one or more of the winding stages at a time and for commutating the winding stages in a preselected sequence to rotate the rotatable assembly; means for generating a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses, the generating means adapted to supply the PWM series of pulses to the controlling means as the pulsed signal; means for comparing the applied voltage to a reference voltage; and means, responsive to the means for comparing, for increasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses as a function of decreases in the applied voltage and for decreasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses as a function of increases in the applied voltage whereby the operating speed of the motor is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses and is substantially independent of variations in the magnitude of the applied voltage.
Claim 34
Dependent Claim
258 words
A control system for power switching devices of an electronically commutated motor having a stationary assembly with a plurality of winding stages for carrying a motor current in response to applications of a voltage having a magnitude subject to variations, the motor further having a rotatable assembly, and which control system is adapted to receive control pulses having a duty cycle representing a desired operating speed for the motor, the control system comprising: means for controlling the power switching devices to apply a voltage having a duty cycle which is a function of a pulsed signal to one or more of the winding stages at a time and for commutating the winding stages in a preselected sequence to rotate the rotatable assembly; means for generating a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses, the generating means adapted to supply the PWM series of pulses to the controlling means as the pulsed signal; means for comparing the applied voltage to a reference voltage; and means, responsive to the means for comparing, for increasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses as a function of decreases in the applied voltage and for decreasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses as a function of increases in the applied voltage whereby the operating speed of the motor is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses and is substantially independent of variations in the magnitude of the applied voltage.
Claim 35
Dependent Claim
43 words
The system of claim 30 wherein said means for generating comprises means for comparing an oscillating reference signal and a signal representing the duty cycle of the control pulses and providing an output signal in response thereto as the PWM series of pulses.
Claim 36
Dependent Claim
16 words
The system of claim 30 wherein said means for generating is responsive to the motor current.
Claim 37
Dependent Claim
49 words
The system of claim 32 wherein said means for generating comprises means for comparing the motor current and a current reference signal and providing an output signal in response thereto to inhibit the PWM series of pulses whenever the the motor current is greater than the current reference signal.
Claim 38
Dependent Claim
199 words
A control system for an electronically commutated motor having a stationary assembly with a plurality of winding stages for carrying a motor current in response to application of a voltage having a magnitude subject to variations, the motor further having a rotatable assembly, which control system is responsive to a motor control apparatus adapted to control the motor by generating control pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of a desired operating torque for the motor and the speed of the motor, the control system comprising: means for applying a voltage having a duty cycle which is a function of a pulsed signal to one or more of the winding stages at a time and for commutating the winding stages in a preselected sequence to rotate the rotatable assembly; means responsive to the motor current for generating a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses, the generating means adapted to supply the PWM series of pulses to the applying means as the pulsed signal; and means for providing a tachometer signal representative of the motor speed to the motor control apparatus.
Claim 39
Dependent Claim
199 words
A control system for an electronically commutated motor having a stationary assembly with a plurality of winding stages for carrying a motor current in response to application of a voltage having a magnitude subject to variations, the motor further having a rotatable assembly, which control system is responsive to a motor control apparatus adapted to control the motor by generating control pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of a desired operating torque for the motor and the speed of the motor, the control system comprising: means for applying a voltage having a duty cycle which is a function of a pulsed signal to one or more of the winding stages at a time and for commutating the winding stages in a preselected sequence to rotate the rotatable assembly; means responsive to the motor current for generating a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses, the generating means adapted to supply the PWM series of pulses to the applying means as the pulsed signal; and means for providing a tachometer signal representative of the motor speed to the motor control apparatus.
Claim 40
Dependent Claim
36 words
The system of claim 34 wherein the tachometer signal providing means comprises an isolator adapted to receive commutation pulses from said generating means and adapted to provide the tachometer signal in response to the commutation pulses.
Claim 41
Dependent Claim
30 words
The system of claim 35 further including means for varying the duty cycle of the applied voltage inversely as a function of variations in the magnitude of the applied voltage.
Claim 42
Dependent Claim
62 words
The system of claim 36 wherein said means for varying comprises means for comparing the applied voltage to a reference voltage, and means, responsive to the means for comparing, for increasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses when the applied voltage decreases and for decreasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses when the applied voltage increases.
Claim 43
Dependent Claim
71 words
The system of claim 37 wherein said means for generating comprises means for comparing the motor current and a signal representing the duty cycle of the control pulses and providing an output signal in response thereto, and means for providing a series of pulses as the PWM series of pulses, each pulse having a width which is a function, of the output signal of the means for comparing the motor current.
Claim 44
Dependent Claim
68 words
The system of claim 35 wherein said means for generating comprises means for comparing the motor current and a signal representing the duty cycle of the control pulses and providing an output signal in response thereto, and means for providing a series of pulses as the PWM series of pulses, each pulse having a width which is a function of the output signal of the means for comparing.
Claim 45
Dependent Claim
67 words
The system of claim 34 further comprising means for generating a sum of a first voltage having a magnitude which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses and a second voltage having a magnitude which is a function of the motor current, and means for inhibiting the PWM series of pulses during the period that the sum is greater than a reference voltage.
Claim 46
Dependent Claim
215 words
A control system for an electronically commutated motor having a stationary assembly with a plurality of winding stages for carrying a motor current in response to application of a voltage having a magnitude subject to variations, the motor further having a rotatable assembly, which control system is responsive to a motor control apparatus adapted to control the motor by generating control pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of a desired operating torque for the motor and the speed of the motor, the control system comprising: means for applying a voltage having a duty cycle which is a function of a pulsed signal to one or more of the winding stages at a time and for commutating the winding stages in a preselected sequence to rotate the rotatable assembly; means for varying the duty cycle of the applied voltage as an inverse function of the magnitude of the applied voltage; means for generating a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses, the generating means adapted to supply the PWM series of pulses to the applying means as the pulsed signal; and means for providing a tachometer signal representative of the motor speed to the motor control apparatus.
Claim 47
Dependent Claim
215 words
A control system for an electronically commutated motor having a stationary assembly with a plurality of winding stages for carrying a motor current in response to application of a voltage having a magnitude subject to variations, the motor further having a rotatable assembly, which control system is responsive to a motor control apparatus adapted to control the motor by generating control pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of a desired operating torque for the motor and the speed of the motor, the control system comprising: means for applying a voltage having a duty cycle which is a function of a pulsed signal to one or more of the winding stages at a time and for commutating the winding stages in a preselected sequence to rotate the rotatable assembly; means for varying the duty cycle of the applied voltage as an inverse function of the magnitude of the applied voltage; means for generating a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses, the generating means adapted to supply the PWM series of pulses to the applying means as the pulsed signal; and means for providing a tachometer signal representative of the motor speed to the motor control apparatus.
Claim 48
Dependent Claim
62 words
The system of claim 41 wherein said means for varying comprises means for comparing the applied voltage to a reference voltage, and means, responsive to the means for comparing, for increasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses when the applied voltage decreases and for decreasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses when the applied voltage increases.
Claim 49
Dependent Claim
43 words
The system of claim 42 wherein said means for generating comprises means for comparing an oscillating reference signal and a signal representing the duty cycle of the control pulses and providing an output signal in response thereto as the PWM series of pulses.
Claim 50
Dependent Claim
16 words
The system of claim 42 wherein said means for generating is responsive to the motor current.
Claim 51
Dependent Claim
49 words
The system of claim 44 wherein said means for generating comprises means for comparing the motor current and a current reference signal and providing an output signal in response thereto to inhibit the PWM series of pulses whenever the the motor current is greater than the current reference signal.
Claim 52
Dependent Claim
67 words
The system of claim 41 further comprising means for generating a sum of a first voltage having a magnitude which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses and a second voltage having a magnitude which is a function of the motor current, and means for inhibiting the PWM series of pulses during the period that the sum is greater than a reference voltage.
Claim 53
Dependent Claim
241 words
A control system for an electronically commutated motor having a stationary assembly with a plurality of winding stages for carrying a motor current and further having a rotatable assembly, and which control system is adapted to receive control pulses having a duty cycle representing a desired operating torque or speed for the motor, the control system being adapted for use with a commutating circuit for applying a voltage to one or more of the winding stages at a time in accordance with a pulsed signal and for commutating the winding stages in a preselected sequence to rotate the rotatable assembly, the control system comprising: means for selecting the motor current or the motor voltage as a control parameter said selecting means including means for sensing the motor current and means for providing a reference; means responsive to the selected motor operating parameter for generating a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses, the generating means adapted to supply the PWM series of pulses to the commutating circuit as the pulsed signal whereby the torque of the motor is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses when the motor current is selected as the control parameter and the speed of the motor is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses when the motor voltage is selected as the control parameter.
Claim 54
Dependent Claim
241 words
A control system for an electronically commutated motor having a stationary assembly with a plurality of winding stages for carrying a motor current and further having a rotatable assembly, and which control system is adapted to receive control pulses having a duty cycle representing a desired operating torque or speed for the motor, the control system being adapted for use with a commutating circuit for applying a voltage to one or more of the winding stages at a time in accordance with a pulsed signal and for commutating the winding stages in a preselected sequence to rotate the rotatable assembly, the control system comprising: means for selecting the motor current or the motor voltage as a control parameter said selecting means including means for sensing the motor current and means for providing a reference; means responsive to the selected motor operating parameter for generating a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses, the generating means adapted to supply the PWM series of pulses to the commutating circuit as the pulsed signal whereby the torque of the motor is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses when the motor current is selected as the control parameter and the speed of the motor is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses when the motor voltage is selected as the control parameter.
Claim 55
Dependent Claim
108 words
The system of claim 47 wherein said means for generating comprises means responsive to the motor current for generating a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses when the motor current is selected as the control parameter by said means for selecting, the generating means adapted to supply the PWM series of pulses to the commutating circuit as the pulsed signal whereby the operating torque of the motor is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses and is substantially independent of variations in the magnitude of the applied voltage.
Claim 56
Dependent Claim
93 words
The system of claim 47 wherein said means for generating comprises means for generating a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of the duty cycle of the control parameter by said means for selecting, the generating means adapted to supply the PWM series of pulses to the commutating circuit as the pulsed signal whereby the operating speed of the motor is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses and is substantially independent of variations in the magnitude of the applied voltage.
Claim 57
Dependent Claim
53 words
The system of claim 47 further comprising means for providing a tachometer signal representative of the motor speed and wherein said means for generating is responsive to said means for providing a tachometer signal to provide the PWM series of pulses having a duty cycle varying as a function of the tachometer signal.
Claim 58
Dependent Claim
106 words
The system of claim 47 wherein said means for selecting comprises means for switching between said means for sensing the motor current and said means for providing a reference; and said means for generating comprises: means for comparing a signal representative of the duty cycle of the control pulses to a signal representative of the motor current when said means for switching is connected to said means for sensing the motor current; and means for comparing a signal representative of the duty cycle of the control pulses to an oscillating reference signal when said means for switching is connected to said means for providing a reference.
Claim 59
Dependent Claim
47 words
The system of claim 51 wherein said means for generating further comprises means for comparing a reference signal representative of the maximum motor current to a signal representative of the motor current when said means for switching is connected to said means for sensing the motor current.
Claim 60
Dependent Claim
98 words
The system of claim 47 wherein said means for generating comprises means for comparing a signal representative of the duty cycle of the control pulses to a signal representative of the motor current when the motor current is selected as the control parameter by said means for selecting and means for comparing a signal representative of the duty cycle of the control pulses to an oscillating reference signal representative of the maximum duty cycle of the voltage to be applied to the motor when the motor voltage is selected as the control parameter by said means for selecting.
Claim 61
Dependent Claim
200 words
Draft inducer apparatus for use with a combustion chamber having an exhaust outlet comprising: a fan for moving air through the exhaust outlet and thereby to induce a draft in the combustion chamber; an electronically commutated motor including a stationary armature having a core and at least two energizable winding stages arranged to establish a predetermined number of magnetic poles, and a permanent magnet rotor coupled to said fan and adapted to rotate in response to the magnetic poles established by said winding stages; means for generating a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a duty cycle representing a desired torque or speed of the motor; power switching devices for applying a voltage to one or more of said winding stages at a time; and means for controlling said power switching devices in accordance with the PWM series of pulses and commutating said winding stages in a preselected sequence to rotate said permanent magnet rotor and said fan; sensor means for sensing pressure within the exhaust outlet, said means for generating further comprising means connected to said sensor means for generating the PWM series of pulses with a duty cycle varying as a function of the sensed pressure.
Claim 62
Dependent Claim
200 words
Draft inducer apparatus for use with a combustion chamber having an exhaust outlet comprising: a fan for moving air through the exhaust outlet and thereby to induce a draft in the combustion chamber; an electronically commutated motor including a stationary armature having a core and at least two energizable winding stages arranged to establish a predetermined number of magnetic poles, and a permanent magnet rotor coupled to said fan and adapted to rotate in response to the magnetic poles established by said winding stages; means for generating a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a duty cycle representing a desired torque or speed of the motor; power switching devices for applying a voltage to one or more of said winding stages at a time; and means for controlling said power switching devices in accordance with the PWM series of pulses and commutating said winding stages in a preselected sequence to rotate said permanent magnet rotor and said fan; sensor means for sensing pressure within the exhaust outlet, said means for generating further comprising means connected to said sensor means for generating the PWM series of pulses with a duty cycle varying as a function of the sensed pressure.
Claim 63
Dependent Claim
135 words
The system of claim 54 wherein said means for generating comprises means for generating control pulses having a duty cycle representing a desired operating torque for the motor; means for varying the duty cycle of the applied voltage inversely as a function of variations in the magnitude of the applied voltage; and means responsive to the motor current for generating a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses, the generating means adapted to supply the PWM series of pulses to the power switching devices as the pulsed signal whereby the operating torque of the motor is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses and is substantially independent of variations in the magnitude of the applied voltage.
Claim 64
Dependent Claim
131 words
The system of claim 54 wherein said means for generating comprises means for generating control pulses having a duty cycle representing a desired operating speed for the motor; means for varying the duty cycle of the applied voltage varies inversely as a function of variations in the magnitude of the applied voltage; and means for generating a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses, the generating means adapted to supply the PWM series of pulses to the power switching devices as the pulsed signal whereby the operating speed of the motor is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses and is substantially independent of variations in the magnitude of the applied voltage.
Claim 65
Dependent Claim
40 words
The system of claim 54 wherein said generating means generates the PWM series of pulses when the pressure is above a preselected limit, whereby a draft is induced in the combustion chamber when the pressure is above the preselected limit.
Claim 66
Dependent Claim
56 words
The apparatus of claim 54 further comprising means for providing a tachometer signal representative of the motor speed and wherein said means for generating is responsive to said means for providing a tachometer signal to provide the series of pulses having a duty cycle varying as a function of the sensed pressure and the tachometer signal.
Claim 67
Dependent Claim
67 words
The system of claim 54 further comprising means for generating a sum of a first voltage having a magnitude which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses and a second voltage having a magnitude which is a function of the motor current, and means for inhibiting the PWM series of pulses during the period that the sum is greater than a reference voltage.
Claim 68
Dependent Claim
197 words
Draft inducer apparatus for use with a combustion chamber having an exhaust outlet, comprising: a fan for moving air through the exhaust outlet and thereby to induce a draft in the combustion chamber; an electronically commutated motor including a stationary armature having a core and at least two energizable winding stages arranged to establish a predetermined number of magnetic poles, and a permanent magnet motor coupled to said fan and adapted to rotate in response to the magnetic poles established by said winding stages; means for providing a tachometer signal representative of the motor speed; storage means for storing a speed/torque profile of the motor; means, responsive to said means for providing a tachometer signal and said storage means, for generating a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a duty cycle varying as a function of the motor speed/torque profile and the tachometer signal; power switching devices for applying a voltage to one or more of said winding stages at a time; means for controlling said power switching devices in accordance with the PWM series of pulses and commutating said winding stages in a preselected sequence to rotate said permanent magnet rotor and said fan.
Claim 69
Dependent Claim
197 words
Draft inducer apparatus for use with a combustion chamber having an exhaust outlet, comprising: a fan for moving air through the exhaust outlet and thereby to induce a draft in the combustion chamber; an electronically commutated motor including a stationary armature having a core and at least two energizable winding stages arranged to establish a predetermined number of magnetic poles, and a permanent magnet motor coupled to said fan and adapted to rotate in response to the magnetic poles established by said winding stages; means for providing a tachometer signal representative of the motor speed; storage means for storing a speed/torque profile of the motor; means, responsive to said means for providing a tachometer signal and said storage means, for generating a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a duty cycle varying as a function of the motor speed/torque profile and the tachometer signal; power switching devices for applying a voltage to one or more of said winding stages at a time; means for controlling said power switching devices in accordance with the PWM series of pulses and commutating said winding stages in a preselected sequence to rotate said permanent magnet rotor and said fan.
Claim 70
Dependent Claim
50 words
The apparatus of claim 60 further comprising sensor means for sensing pressure within the exhaust outlet and wherein said means for generating comprises means connected to said sensor means for generating a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a duty cycle varying as a function of the pressure.
Claim 71
Dependent Claim
40 words
The system of claim 61 wherein said generating means generates the PWM series of pulses when the pressure is above a preselected limit, whereby a draft is induced in the combustion chamber when the pressure is above the preselected limit.
Claim 72
Dependent Claim
41 words
The apparatus of claim 61 wherein said means for generating is responsive to said means for providing a tachometer signal to provide the series of pulses having a duty cycle varying as a function of the pressure and the tachometer signal.
Claim 73
Dependent Claim
135 words
The system of claim 60 wherein said means for generating comprises means for generating control pulses having a duty cycle representing a desired operating torque for the motor; means for varying the duty cycle of the applied voltage inversely as a function of variations in the magnitude of the applied voltage; and means responsive to the motor current for generating a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses, the generating means adapted to supply the PWM series of pulses to the power switching devices as the pulsed signal whereby the operating torque of the motor is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses and is substantially independent of variations in the magnitude of the applied voltage.
Claim 74
Dependent Claim
131 words
The system of claim 60 wherein said means for generating comprises means for generating control pulses having a duty cycle representing a desired operating speed for the motor; means for varying the duty cycle of the applied voltage varies inversely as a function of variations in the magnitude of the applied voltage; and means for generating a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses, the generating means adapted to supply the PWM series of pulses to the power switching devices as the pulsed signal whereby the operating speed of the motor is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses and is substantially independent of variations in the magnitude of the applied voltage.
Claim 75
Dependent Claim
67 words
The system of claim 60 further comprising means for generating a sum of a first voltage having a magnitude which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses and a second voltage having a magnitude which is a function of the motor current, and means for inhibiting the PWM series of pulses during the period that the sum is greater than a reference voltage.
Claim 76
Dependent Claim
251 words
A control method for an electronically commutated motor having a stationary assembly with a plurality of winding stages for carrying a motor current in response to application of a voltage having a rotatable assembly, and which control method is responsive to control pulses having a duty cycle representing a desired operating torque for the motor, the control method for use with a commutating circuit for controlling power switching devices for applying the voltage to one or more of the winding stages at a time having a duty cycle which is a function of a pulsed signal and for commutating the winding stages in a preselected sequence to rotate the rotatable assembly, the control method comprising the steps of: generating a response to the motor current a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a pulse repetition rat having a duty cycle which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses, the generating step adapted to supply the PWM series of pulses to the commutating circuit as the pulsed signal; comparing the applied voltage to a reference voltage; increasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses as a function of decreases in the applied voltage; and decreasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses as a function of increases in the applied voltage whereby the operating torque of the motor is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses and is substantially independent of variations in the magnitude of the applied voltage.
Claim 77
Dependent Claim
251 words
A control method for an electronically commutated motor having a stationary assembly with a plurality of winding stages for carrying a motor current in response to application of a voltage having a rotatable assembly, and which control method is responsive to control pulses having a duty cycle representing a desired operating torque for the motor, the control method for use with a commutating circuit for controlling power switching devices for applying the voltage to one or more of the winding stages at a time having a duty cycle which is a function of a pulsed signal and for commutating the winding stages in a preselected sequence to rotate the rotatable assembly, the control method comprising the steps of: generating a response to the motor current a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a pulse repetition rat having a duty cycle which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses, the generating step adapted to supply the PWM series of pulses to the commutating circuit as the pulsed signal; comparing the applied voltage to a reference voltage; increasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses as a function of decreases in the applied voltage; and decreasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses as a function of increases in the applied voltage whereby the operating torque of the motor is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses and is substantially independent of variations in the magnitude of the applied voltage.
Claim 78
Dependent Claim
245 words
A control method for an electronically commutated motor having a stationary assembly with a plurality of winding stages for carrying a motor current in response to application of a voltage having a magnitude subject to variations, the motor further having a rotatable assembly, and which control method is responsive to control pulses having a duty cycle representing a desired operating torque for the motor, the control method for use with a commutating circuit for controlling power switching devices for applying the voltage to one or more of the winding stages at a time having a duty cycle which is a function of a pulsed signal and for commutating the winding stages in a preselected sequence to rotate the rotatable assembly, the control method comprising the steps of: generating a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses, the generating step adapted to supply the PWM series of pulses to the commutating circuit as the pulsed signal; comparing the applied voltage to a reference voltage; increasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses as a function of decreases in the applied voltage; and decreasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses as a function of increases in the applied voltage whereby the operating speed of the motor is a function of the duty cycle and is substantially independent of variations in the magnitude of the applied voltage.
Claim 79
Dependent Claim
245 words
A control method for an electronically commutated motor having a stationary assembly with a plurality of winding stages for carrying a motor current in response to application of a voltage having a magnitude subject to variations, the motor further having a rotatable assembly, and which control method is responsive to control pulses having a duty cycle representing a desired operating torque for the motor, the control method for use with a commutating circuit for controlling power switching devices for applying the voltage to one or more of the winding stages at a time having a duty cycle which is a function of a pulsed signal and for commutating the winding stages in a preselected sequence to rotate the rotatable assembly, the control method comprising the steps of: generating a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses, the generating step adapted to supply the PWM series of pulses to the commutating circuit as the pulsed signal; comparing the applied voltage to a reference voltage; increasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses as a function of decreases in the applied voltage; and decreasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses as a function of increases in the applied voltage whereby the operating speed of the motor is a function of the duty cycle and is substantially independent of variations in the magnitude of the applied voltage.
Claim 80
Dependent Claim
244 words
A control method for power switching devices of an electronically commutated motor having a stationary assembly with a plurality of winding stages for carrying a motor current in response to application of a voltage having a magnitude subject to variations, the motor further having a rotatable assembly, and which control method is responsive to control pulses having a duty cycle representing a desired operating torque for the motor, the control method comprising the steps of: controlling the power switching devices to apply a voltage having a duty cycle which is a function of a pulsed signal to one or more of the winding stages at a time; commutating the winding stages in a preselected sequence to rotate the rotatable assembly; generating in response to the motor current a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses, the generating step adapted to supply the PWM series of pulses as the pulsed signal; comparing the applied voltage to a reference voltage; increasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses as a function of decreases in the applied voltage; and decreasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses as a function of increases in the applied voltage whereby the operating torque of the motor is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses and is substantially independent of variations in the magnitude of the applied voltage.
Claim 81
Dependent Claim
244 words
A control method for power switching devices of an electronically commutated motor having a stationary assembly with a plurality of winding stages for carrying a motor current in response to application of a voltage having a magnitude subject to variations, the motor further having a rotatable assembly, and which control method is responsive to control pulses having a duty cycle representing a desired operating torque for the motor, the control method comprising the steps of: controlling the power switching devices to apply a voltage having a duty cycle which is a function of a pulsed signal to one or more of the winding stages at a time; commutating the winding stages in a preselected sequence to rotate the rotatable assembly; generating in response to the motor current a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses, the generating step adapted to supply the PWM series of pulses as the pulsed signal; comparing the applied voltage to a reference voltage; increasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses as a function of decreases in the applied voltage; and decreasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses as a function of increases in the applied voltage whereby the operating torque of the motor is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses and is substantially independent of variations in the magnitude of the applied voltage.
Claim 82
Dependent Claim
238 words
A control method for power switching devices of an electronically commutated motor having a stationary assembly with a plurality of winding stages for carrying a motor current in response to application of a voltage having a magnitude subject to variations, the motor further having a rotatable assembly, and which control method is responsive to control pulses having a duty cycle representing a desired operating speed for the motor, the control method comprising the steps of: controlling the power switching devices to apply a voltage having a duty cycle which is a function of a pulsed signal to one or more of the winding stages at a time; commutating the winding stages in a preselected sequence to rotate the rotatable assembly; generating a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses, the generating step adapted to supply the PWM series of pulses as the pulsed signal; comparing the applied voltage to a reference voltage; increasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses as a function of decreases in the applied voltage; and decreasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses as a function of increases in the applied voltage whereby the operating speed of the motor is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses and is substantially independent of variations in the magnitude of the applied voltage.
Claim 83
Dependent Claim
238 words
A control method for power switching devices of an electronically commutated motor having a stationary assembly with a plurality of winding stages for carrying a motor current in response to application of a voltage having a magnitude subject to variations, the motor further having a rotatable assembly, and which control method is responsive to control pulses having a duty cycle representing a desired operating speed for the motor, the control method comprising the steps of: controlling the power switching devices to apply a voltage having a duty cycle which is a function of a pulsed signal to one or more of the winding stages at a time; commutating the winding stages in a preselected sequence to rotate the rotatable assembly; generating a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses, the generating step adapted to supply the PWM series of pulses as the pulsed signal; comparing the applied voltage to a reference voltage; increasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses as a function of decreases in the applied voltage; and decreasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses as a function of increases in the applied voltage whereby the operating speed of the motor is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses and is substantially independent of variations in the magnitude of the applied voltage.
Claim 84
Dependent Claim
241 words
A control method for an electronically commutated motor having a stationary assembly with a plurality of winding stages for carrying a motor current in response to application of a voltage having a magnitude subject to variations, the motor further having a rotatable assembly, and which control method is responsive to a motor control apparatus adapted to control the motor by generating control pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of a desired operating torque for the motor and the speed of the motor, the control method comprising the steps of: applying a voltage having a duty cycle which is a function of a pulsed signal to one or more of the winding stages at a time; storing a speed/torque profile of the motor; commutating the winding stages in a preselected sequence to rotate the rotatable assembly; generating, in response to the motor current and the motor speed, a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses, the generating step adapted to supply the PWM series of pulses as the pulsed signal; providing a tachometer signal representative of the motor speed to the motor control apparatus; and wherein the generating step is responsive to the storing step and the providing step for generating the PWM series of pulses with a duty cycle varying as a function of the motor speed/torque profile and the tachometer signal.
Claim 85
Dependent Claim
241 words
A control method for an electronically commutated motor having a stationary assembly with a plurality of winding stages for carrying a motor current in response to application of a voltage having a magnitude subject to variations, the motor further having a rotatable assembly, and which control method is responsive to a motor control apparatus adapted to control the motor by generating control pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of a desired operating torque for the motor and the speed of the motor, the control method comprising the steps of: applying a voltage having a duty cycle which is a function of a pulsed signal to one or more of the winding stages at a time; storing a speed/torque profile of the motor; commutating the winding stages in a preselected sequence to rotate the rotatable assembly; generating, in response to the motor current and the motor speed, a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses, the generating step adapted to supply the PWM series of pulses as the pulsed signal; providing a tachometer signal representative of the motor speed to the motor control apparatus; and wherein the generating step is responsive to the storing step and the providing step for generating the PWM series of pulses with a duty cycle varying as a function of the motor speed/torque profile and the tachometer signal.
Claim 86
Dependent Claim
205 words
A control method for an electronically commutated motor having a stationary assembly with a plurality of winding stages for carrying a motor current in response to application of a voltage having a magnitude subject to variations, the motor further having a rotatable assembly, and which control method is responsive to a motor control apparatus adapted to control the motor by generating control pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of a desired operating torque for the motor and the speed of the motor, the control method comprising the steps of: applying a voltage having a duty cycle which is a function of a pulsed signal to one or more of the winding stages at a time; commutating the winding stages in a preselected sequence to rotate the rotatable assembly; varying the duty cycle of the applied voltage as an inverse function of the magnitude of the applied voltage; generating a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses, the generating step adapted to supply the PWM series of pulses as the pulsed signal; and providing a tachometer signal representative of the motor speed to the motor control apparatus.
Claim 87
Dependent Claim
205 words
A control method for an electronically commutated motor having a stationary assembly with a plurality of winding stages for carrying a motor current in response to application of a voltage having a magnitude subject to variations, the motor further having a rotatable assembly, and which control method is responsive to a motor control apparatus adapted to control the motor by generating control pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of a desired operating torque for the motor and the speed of the motor, the control method comprising the steps of: applying a voltage having a duty cycle which is a function of a pulsed signal to one or more of the winding stages at a time; commutating the winding stages in a preselected sequence to rotate the rotatable assembly; varying the duty cycle of the applied voltage as an inverse function of the magnitude of the applied voltage; generating a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses, the generating step adapted to supply the PWM series of pulses as the pulsed signal; and providing a tachometer signal representative of the motor speed to the motor control apparatus.
Claim 88
Dependent Claim
224 words
A control method for an electronically commutated motor having a stationary assembly with a plurality of winding stages for carrying a motor current and further having a rotatable assembly, and which control method is responsive to control pulses having a duty cycle representing a desired operating torque or speed for the motor, the control method being adapted for use with a commutating circuit for applying a voltage to one or more of the winding stages at a time in accordance with a pulsed signal and for commutating the winding stages in a preselected sequence to rotate the rotatable assembly, the control method comprising the steps of: selecting the motor current or the motor voltage as a control parameter; generating in response to the selected motor operating parameter a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses, the generating step adapted to supply the PWM series of pulses to the commutating circuit as the pulsed signal whereby the torque of the motor is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses when the motor current is selected as the control parameter and the speed of the motor is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses when the motor voltage is selected as the control parameter.
Claim 89
Dependent Claim
224 words
A control method for an electronically commutated motor having a stationary assembly with a plurality of winding stages for carrying a motor current and further having a rotatable assembly, and which control method is responsive to control pulses having a duty cycle representing a desired operating torque or speed for the motor, the control method being adapted for use with a commutating circuit for applying a voltage to one or more of the winding stages at a time in accordance with a pulsed signal and for commutating the winding stages in a preselected sequence to rotate the rotatable assembly, the control method comprising the steps of: selecting the motor current or the motor voltage as a control parameter; generating in response to the selected motor operating parameter a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a duty cycle which is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses, the generating step adapted to supply the PWM series of pulses to the commutating circuit as the pulsed signal whereby the torque of the motor is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses when the motor current is selected as the control parameter and the speed of the motor is a function of the duty cycle of the control pulses when the motor voltage is selected as the control parameter.
Claim 90
Dependent Claim
210 words
Method of inducing a draft in a combustion chamber having an exhaust outlet including a fan for moving air through the exhaust outlet and thereby to induce a draft in the combustion chamber and an electronically commutated motor including a stationary armature having a core and at least two energizable winding stages arranged to establish a predetermined number of magnetic poles, and a permanent magnet rotor coupled to said fan and adapted to rotate in response to the magnetic poles established by said winding stages; said method comprising the steps of: generating a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a duty cycle representing a desired torque or speed of the motor; applying a voltage to one or more of said winding stages at a time by use of power switching devices; controlling the power switching devices in accordance with the PWM series of pulses; commutating said winding stages in a preselected sequence to rotate said permanent magnet rotor and said fan; comparing the applied voltage to a reference voltage; increasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses as a function of decreases in the applied voltage; and decreasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses as a function of increases in the applied voltage.
Claim 91
Dependent Claim
210 words
Method of inducing a draft in a combustion chamber having an exhaust outlet including a fan for moving air through the exhaust outlet and thereby to induce a draft in the combustion chamber and an electronically commutated motor including a stationary armature having a core and at least two energizable winding stages arranged to establish a predetermined number of magnetic poles, and a permanent magnet rotor coupled to said fan and adapted to rotate in response to the magnetic poles established by said winding stages; said method comprising the steps of: generating a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a duty cycle representing a desired torque or speed of the motor; applying a voltage to one or more of said winding stages at a time by use of power switching devices; controlling the power switching devices in accordance with the PWM series of pulses; commutating said winding stages in a preselected sequence to rotate said permanent magnet rotor and said fan; comparing the applied voltage to a reference voltage; increasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses as a function of decreases in the applied voltage; and decreasing the duty cycle of the PWM series of pulses as a function of increases in the applied voltage.
Claim 92
Dependent Claim
172 words
Method of inducing a draft in combustion chamber having an exhaust outlet including a fan for moving air through the exhaust outlet and thereby to induce a draft in the combustion chamber and an electronically commutated motor including a stationary armature having a core and at least two energizable winding stages arranged to establish a predetermined number of magnetic poles, and a permanent magnet rotor coupled to said fan and adapted to rotate in response to the magnetic poles established by said winding stages; said method comprising the steps of: providing a tachometer signal representative of the motor speed; storing a speed/torque profile of the motor; generating a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a duty cycle varying as a function of the motor speed/torque profile and the tachometer signal; applying a voltage to one or more of said winding stages at a time in accordance with the PWM series of pulses; and commutating said winding stages in a preselected sequence to rotate said permanent magnet rotor and said fan.
Claim 93
Dependent Claim
172 words
Method of inducing a draft in combustion chamber having an exhaust outlet including a fan for moving air through the exhaust outlet and thereby to induce a draft in the combustion chamber and an electronically commutated motor including a stationary armature having a core and at least two energizable winding stages arranged to establish a predetermined number of magnetic poles, and a permanent magnet rotor coupled to said fan and adapted to rotate in response to the magnetic poles established by said winding stages; said method comprising the steps of: providing a tachometer signal representative of the motor speed; storing a speed/torque profile of the motor; generating a pulse width modulated (PWM) series of pulses having a duty cycle varying as a function of the motor speed/torque profile and the tachometer signal; applying a voltage to one or more of said winding stages at a time in accordance with the PWM series of pulses; and commutating said winding stages in a preselected sequence to rotate said permanent magnet rotor and said fan.
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USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 1994-12-23 | 1995-06-24 | 1995-12-24 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 1998-12-23 | 1999-06-24 | 1999-12-24 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 2002-12-23 | 2003-06-24 | 2003-12-24 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |