Patent ID: 6800953
Filing Date: 2004-10-05
Classification: F02N

Abstract:
A method for controlling a starting apparatus of a combustion engine, said starting apparatus including a starter/alternator assembly capable of being operated in a starter mode for starting said engine and in a generator mode for generating electric power when driven by said engine for supplying electrical power to an electrical load equipment, said starter/alternator assembly including a starter/alternator machine drivingly connected to said engine, said method comprising the steps of:(a) enabling said starter mode of said starter/alternator assembly; (b) energizing said starter/alternator assembly in said starter mode; (c) monitoring a rotational speed of said starter/alternator machine; (d) producing an engine cranking indicative signal if said speed decreases; (e) producing an engine start indicative signal if said speed increases after said engine cranking indicative signal was produced; and (f) disabling said starter mode of said starter/alternator assembly if said engine start indicative signal was produced; (g) enabling said generator mode of said starter/alternator assembly.