Patent ID: 7122994
Filing Date: 2006-10-17
Classification: F02N

Abstract:
1. A starter/generator system for an engine, comprising: a starter/generator including an exciter stator with a DC winding; and a multi-use controller, for providing AC power to said exciter stator during a start mode of operation and DC power to said exciter stator during a generate mode of operation, such that said multi-use controller is configured to operate as an exciter power supply during said start mode and as a generator control unit during said generate mode, said multi-use controller comprising: a power conversion unit for converting input DC power to said AC power provided to said exciter stator during said start mode of operation and converting input DC power to said DC power provided to said exciter stator during said generate mode; and a switching driver configured to drive switching elements of said power conversion unit based on start control signals received during said start mode and based on generate control signals received during said generate mode, such that said switching driver is configured to output first switch driving signals for causing said power conversion unit to perform DC-AC conversion upon receiving start control signals and to output second switch driving signals for causing said power conversion unit to perform DC-DC conversion upon receiving generate control signals.