Alternator diagnostic system
AssigneeMidtronics, Inc.
InventorKevin I. Bertness
Life of this patent
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Abstract
An apparatus for testing an alternator in an automotive vehicle includes a sensor positioned proximate the alternator which provides a vibration output related to vibrations generated by operation of the alternator. A diagnostic system diagnoses the condition of the alternator based upon sensed vibrations. A temperature sensor can also be employed.
Claims67
An apparatus for-testing an alternator of the type used in an automotive vehicle, comprising:
- a sensor configured to sense vibrations from the alternator and provide a vibration output related to vibrations generated by operation of the alternator;
- an amplifier coupled to the vibration output configured to responsively provide an amplified output;
- and
- a diagnostic system coupled to the amplified output configured to provide a diagnostic output related to condition of the alternator.
A method for testing an alternator in an automotive vehicle, comprising:
- sensing vibrations generated by operation of the alternator;
- amplifying the sensed vibrations;
- and
- diagnosing a condition of the alternator as a function of the amplified sensed vibrations.
An apparatus for testing an alternator of the type used in an automotive vehicle, comprising:
- a sensor configured to sense temperature of the alternator and provide a temperature output related to temperature generated by operation of the alternator;
- an amplifier coupled to the temperature output configured to responsively provide an amplified output;
- and
- a diagnostic system coupled to the amplified output configured to provide a diagnostic output related to condition of the alternator.
A method for testing an alternator in an automotive vehicle, comprising:
- sensing temperature generated by operation of the alternator;
- and
- diagnosing a condition of the alternator as a function of the sensed temperature.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.