Location History:
- Clare, IE (1987 - 1989)
- Ennis, IE (1987 - 1990)
Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1987-1990
Title: **Spotlight on Inventor Francis McMullin**
Introduction
Francis McMullin, an innovative inventor based in Ennis, Ireland, has made significant contributions to technology with a portfolio of nine patents. His work primarily focuses on control systems for electrical machines and transducers designed for harsh environments, showcasing his expertise in engineering and technology.
Latest Patents
One of McMullin's latest inventions involves advanced control systems for variable reluctance electrical machines. In this innovative control system for a reluctance motor driving a load, the output from a reference waveform generator is processed through a power converter via a current controller. The generator's output is determined by the rotor position, as sensed by a sensor. This mechanism allows for the establishment of a relative magnitude for motor phase currents based on the rotor's positioning during energization. Additionally, an extra control input can determine the absolute magnitude of motor phase current, while the reference waveforms may be sinusoidal. To configure suitable reference waveforms for a particular motor, the method involves monitoring selected operational parameters during a testing procedure.
Another notable invention by McMullin is a screened inductance level transducer, designed for use in hostile environments. This transducer incorporates a drive winding that establishes a drive field, while a sense winding detects voltage changes in the presence of this field. A conductive screen, likely made of stainless steel, is mounted on a float to respond to liquid levels. When exposed to the screen, eddy currents are created to form a counter-field, thereby affecting the induced voltage. This design ensures that the region where liquid levels are measured is isolated from the external environment, enhancing its functionality in challenging conditions.
Career Highlights
Throughout his career, Francis McMullin has worked at prominent companies, including Kollmorgen Technologies Corporation and Kollmorgen Corporation. His technological expertise and inventive spirit have significantly impacted fields requiring precision measurement and feedback control systems.
Collaborations
McMullin has collaborated with notable professionals, including John V Byrne and John Murphy. These partnerships have contributed to the successful development and implementation of his innovative ideas and projects.
Conclusion
Francis McMullin stands out as a significant figure in the field of invention and technology. His dedication to creating advanced control systems and robust transducers positions him as a valuable contributor to engineering and innovation. With a growing portfolio of patents, McMullin continues to demonstrate the potential of innovative thinking in solving complex challenges.