Alternator system multifunction fault detector
First Claim
Patent Images
1. A multifunction fault detector as for use in a vehicle alternator system and comprising:
- first detector means for detecting that a first voltage derived from said alternator is within a predetermined range and providing a first detector output signal in response thereto, a voltage within said predetermined range indicating the presence of a possibele fault in the system;
second detector means for detecting that the field coil of the alternator is being driven and providing a second detector output signal in response thereto, said second detector output signal indicating fault verification;
first logic means coupled to the first and second detector means for providing a logic output signal having a first value when said first and second detector output signals indicate that no fault or only a possible fault exists and providing output signal pulses having a second value when an actual fault is verified, said logic means including logic elements for broadening said signal pulses internal to said logic means;
second logic means coupled to the first logic means for providing a sustained output signal in response to said second valve of said first logic means output signal pulses; and
indicator means coupled to the second logic means for being enabled only by said sustained output signal.
3 Assignments
0 Petitions
Accused Products
Abstract
Three possible types of "faults" may be detected in the ignition system of a vehicle, using simple combinational logic to provide an essentially error-free activation of an indicator when a true fault is present. "Fault" signals which mean non-rotation of the alternator, broken cables or short circuits and the like are distinguished from transient and less significant conditions. The latter conditions are prevented from activating the indicator. A single indicator lamp serves to alert the user to a serious fault requiring service.
24 Citations
3 Claims
-
1. A multifunction fault detector as for use in a vehicle alternator system and comprising:
-
first detector means for detecting that a first voltage derived from said alternator is within a predetermined range and providing a first detector output signal in response thereto, a voltage within said predetermined range indicating the presence of a possibele fault in the system; second detector means for detecting that the field coil of the alternator is being driven and providing a second detector output signal in response thereto, said second detector output signal indicating fault verification; first logic means coupled to the first and second detector means for providing a logic output signal having a first value when said first and second detector output signals indicate that no fault or only a possible fault exists and providing output signal pulses having a second value when an actual fault is verified, said logic means including logic elements for broadening said signal pulses internal to said logic means; second logic means coupled to the first logic means for providing a sustained output signal in response to said second valve of said first logic means output signal pulses; and indicator means coupled to the second logic means for being enabled only by said sustained output signal. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3)
-
Specification