Sundstrand Corporation

Richard P Ejzak

James B Thom

Timothy F Glennon

William J Peterson

A control for an electrical generating and distribution system utilizing a plurality of interconnected microprocessors. An electrical system, for an aircraft for example, may have two engine driven generators and an auxiliary power unit generator with loads connected to each of the engine driven generators through generator circuit breakers. An electrical distribution bus connected through bus tie breakers interconnects the load circuits and the auxiliary generator so that any one generator can power either or both loads. Each generator has a microprocessor generator control unit responsive to the associated generator conditions to control generator operation. A microprocessor bus power control unit is responsive to distribution circuit conditions and correlates information from the generator control units, contributing to operation of the bus tie breakers, controlling distribution of power from the generators to the loads. Serial data links between the bus power control unit and each of the generator control units provide for communication of input and control information and enable comparison of redundant circuit information enhancing reliability of the system operation. A generator voltage regulator utilizes the microprocessor of the generator control unit to develop an error voltage which is added to the average phase voltage of the generator, controlling the generator field current. In the event of a phase failure the generator control unit senses an abnormally high phase voltage condition, disables the average phase voltage circuit and the regulator continues to operate with the error voltage.

Control for an electrical generating and distribution system, and method

The invention relates to a fault current detection, isolation and clearing system for use in an integrated power generating and distribution arrangement having multiple generators electrically connected to loads and to a distribution bus through circuit breakers. The system includes a power control logic unit and circuit breaker condition detection units which have their outputs electrically coupled to the power control logic unit. Fault current detection circuits are coupled to the electrical connections of the generating and distribution arrangement and have outputs electrically coupled to the power control logic unit. The power control logic unit has an output which is controllingly electrically connected to the circuit breakers to control the circuit breakers and clear faults from the generating and distribution arrangement as a function of circuit breaker conditions and fault currents detected.

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Chicago, IL, United States of America

Richard P Ejzak