Locomotive and auxiliary power unit engine controller
First Claim
1. An auxiliary power system for operation in cooperation with a primary engine, comprising:
- (A) a secondary engine, and (B) control means having a timer, wherein;
(i) the control means shuts down the primary engine following a predetermined time period of idling of the primary engine;
(ii) the control means sheds loads from the primary engine upon shutdown; and
(iii) the control means enables automatic startup of the secondary engine.
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Accused Products
Abstract
Systems and methods for providing auxiliary power to a large diesel engine allow shutdown of the engine in various weather conditions. An auxiliary power unit (APU) comprising a secondary engine coupled to an electrical generator is provided. An automatic control system shuts down the primary engine after a period of idling, and the APU provides electrical power for heating and air conditioning. The APU automatically starts in response to a low coolant temperature, low battery voltage, and low air reservoir pressure. It may also start automatically after extended shutdown to ensure reliability. Automatic primary engine shutdown is defeated if the secondary engine is disabled.
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Citations
16 Claims
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1. An auxiliary power system for operation in cooperation with a primary engine, comprising:
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(A) a secondary engine, and (B) control means having a timer, wherein;
(i) the control means shuts down the primary engine following a predetermined time period of idling of the primary engine;
(ii) the control means sheds loads from the primary engine upon shutdown; and
(iii) the control means enables automatic startup of the secondary engine. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 15, 16)
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14. A method of supplying auxiliary power to a primary engine, comprising:
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(A) providing a secondary engine coupled to an electrical generator;
(B) monitoring an operating condition of the primary engine;
(C) shutting down the primary engine following idling of the primary engine for a predetermined period of time; and
(D) starting the secondary engine, at least in part, in response to a predetermined condition of the primary engine.
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Specification