Patent ID: 7656134

Claim:
An improved voltage regulator device with features for controlling the output of a mechanically driven alternator in an electrical charging system of a vehicle including: a). an electronic switching means connected between a battery output terminal and a connection to a rotor field winding of the alternator for closing and opening a conduction path for field current to the field winding; b). a means removably connected to the electronic switching means and to the battery output terminal of the alternator for regulating the DC output voltage of the alternator by controlling the switching means to close and open the conduction path when the DC output voltage changes; c). a means removably connected to the electronic switching means and to an electrical wiring harness with input signals from an engine control module of the vehicle; d). a ground means for the electrical charging system of the vehicle; e). a means to removably connect the electronic switching means and the electrical system ground; f). a means connected to the electronic switching means and to a means to transfer the heat generated in the regulator from the electronics; g). a means to package the voltage regulator to fit in the alternator; and h). a means to removably secure the package means to the alternator wherein the features comprise: a means for transient and surge protection, the removable battery connection means, and the removable ground protection connection means within the voltage regulator device.