GB371538A - Improvements relating to electric current generating systems - Google Patents

Abstract

371,538. Self-contained supply systems. CHANCE BROS. & CO., Ltd. and SPAINK, J. H. ABBINK-, Lighthouse Works, West Smethwick, Staffordshire. March 7, 1931, No. 7167. [Class 38 (iv).] Selecting machines in service ; starting primemovers.-An electric generating system comprises duplicate generating sets, and means whereby the sets are normally operated alternately, and in the event of failure of either set the other is brought into action automatically. When a set is required switches ss1, ss2 are closed. With the switches as shown since p<3> is open set No. 2 will not operate. Closure of switch ss1 completes the circuit of relay a1 which closes switch a<1>1. Relay ps1 operates to open the petrol tap and relay r1 to close switches r<2>1, r<3>1, r<4>1, r<5>1 and open switches r<1>1, r<6>1. Closure of r<2>1 operates relay k<1> which closes switches k<1>1, k<2>1, k<3>1. The armature g1 then runs as a motor from battery b1 to start the prime-mover. When the potential of the generator G1 builds up a relay v1 operates and opens a switch v<1>1 which disconnects the relay k1 so that the switches k<1>1, k<2>1, k<3>1 open. The generator G1, g1 runs with a compound field to supply the load. Closure of the switch k<3>1 energizes the relay p which closes a maintaining switch p<1> and a switch p<3> and opens a switch p<2>. While the first primemover is operating the relay a2 cannot be energized because the switch r<6>1 is maintained open. When the first set is stopped by the opening of the switches ss1, ss2 the switch r<6>1 closes and since switch p<2> is open and p<3> is closed the second set will start when the switches ss1, ss2 are again closed. Thus when a set is started the switch settings are automatically adjusted so that the other set will start the next occasion. Should the set fail to start in a given time a thermal relay h1 operates and opens a switch h<1>1 and closes a switch h<2>1. Opening of the switch h<1>1 disconnects the first set, and closure of switch h<2>1 completes the starting circuit of the second set. During running the battery is charged from generator g1 or g2 through a resistance chr1 or chr2. The Specification states that means responsive to solar radiations may be used to open or close the switches ss1, ss2 automatically.