Transfer apparatus, regulating apparatus and methods

Abstract

Transfer apparatus for use with an AC generator having a field winding, the DC energization of which controls the output of the generator. Associated with the generator are first and second voltage regulators each including means for sensing the output of the generator and means for varying the DC energization of the generator field winding to regulate the output of the generator to a respective reference level for each voltage regulator. The transfer apparatus includes a circuit for generating a first signal as a function of the generator output as sensed by the first voltage regulator sensing means and a second signal as a function of the generator output as sensed by the second voltage regulator sensing means. Another circuit independently produces an additional signal to which the first and second signals ordinarily have a predetermined relationship. A further circuit selects the first or second voltage regulator to energize the generator field winding. The selection depends on whether or not there is a departure of the first signal from the predetermined relationship to the additional signal when the second signal maintains its predetermined relationship thereto. Other transfer apparatus and regulating apparatus and methods are also disclosed.