Automatic Terminal Information Systems, Inc.

Other

Robert L Spaw

Charles R Allen

Jerry Alan Collins, Sr

This invention involves transducing and monitoring the power being delivered by an electric generator to a power bus by using a monitor which includes an embedded microprocessor in the memory of which are stored reference digital numbers that correspond to the generator's nominal power, and to the components of the nominal power including output power. The generator's voltage and current signals are sensed and then shaped for use by the microprocessor wherein they are digitized into a first set of digital numbers. Preferably, the first set of digital numbers is converted into pulse-width modulated (PWM) square-wave signals, which are demodulated into DC current signals that are indicative of the power and the components of power being delivered by the electric generator to its power bus. The microprocessor digitizes the square wave signals into a second set of digital numbers, and calculates from the first and from the second sets of digital numbers real time digital numbers. Preferably a microcontroller is also embedded with the microprocessor to compare the calculated real time digital numbers with their corresponding reference digital numbers and to generate control signals to selectively actuate circuit breakers which interconnect the generator and its loads to the power bus.

Method and apparatus for metering and monitoring AC generators

The level measuring system measures a variable level within a sensing area containing a mass of material. A sensing probe is positioned within the area and is coupled to the tank of an oscillating circuit through a switching network. A reference probe positioned in or near the sensing area is also coupled through the switching network to the tank of the oscillating circuit. The frequency of oscillation will depend upon a physical parameter of the mass of material within the immediate vicinity of sensing probe. Environmental conditions affecting the reactance of the sensing probe will equally affect the reference probe and therefore a change in the frequency produced by the sensing probe relative to the frequency produced by the reference probe will provide a true indication of the physical parameter being measured. Signal processing means are coupled to the oscillator for processing this frequency change. The sensing probe can be a cable antenna extending vertically into a material container for measuring the level of the material therein.

Level measuring system

A subsea well installation is equipped with means for performing required control functions as directed by electrical command signals transmitted over a primary cable from a remote surface location. The subsea installation includes a logic system which effects desired normal or emergency control functions according to self-contained programs or in accordance with instructions received from the surface. Multiplexing means at both locations substantially reduce cable dependency and reduce the number of electrical conductors required in the cable. Cable dependency and signal traffic are further reduced by the provision of self-contained means in the subsea logic system which verify that correct instructions have been received without need for retransmitting the received instructions to the surface. When the primary cable is damaged or communications are otherwise interrupted, a special subsea logic is initiated to control operation of the well installation and a submerged buoy is automatically released. An auxiliary cable is carried by the buoy to the water surface to permit power and communications to be re-established with the underwater installation. The buoy may also carry a storage battery or the subsea logic system, or both, so that the buoy may be released to carry these components to the surface as required for repair or periodic maintenance. Communications and power connections between the underwater installation and the cable are established through waterproofed, inductive coupling means which permits the cables to be quickly and easily connected and disconnected from the well installation without diver assistance.

Intelligent multiplex system for subsurface wells

A single length of insulated, stranded steel cable extends vertically through a bin or other material container and functions as a radiating antenna for an electrical signal transmitter. The reactance of the antenna, which varies as a function of the level of material in the container adjacent the antenna, is inductively linked to an oscillator circuit in the transmitter. The transmitter's signal which is altered in frequency with changes in the antenna's reactance is combined with that of a constant frequency reference signal. The frequency of the resulting difference signal is employed to form a remote indication of the material level and to provide control information for automatically maintaining or varying material levels.

Growing community of inventors

Houston, TX, United States of America

Robert L Spaw