Starter system

摘要

Some embodiments of the invention provide a starter system including a starter, capable of being in communication with an electronic control unit. The starter can include a motor coupled to a circuit and a pinion including a plunger, and a plurality of solenoid assemblies including a plurality of biasing members. The plurality of solenoid assemblies can include at least one solenoid winding capable of moving the plunger, and at least one solenoid assembly capable of holding the plunger, and at least one solenoid assembly capable of controlling current flow to the motor. Some embodiments include a first switch coupled to the circuit that is capable of being activated by the plunger to control current flowing to at least a portion of the circuit. Some embodiments include at least two power isolation switches capable of controlling a current flow within the circuit.

主权项

1. A system for restarting an engine, wherein the engine has been automatically deactivated and a restart signal is received while the engine is coasting, the system comprising:
a starter capable of being controlled by an electronic control unit, the starter further comprising: a motor coupled to a circuit; a plunger moveably coupled to a pinion; a first solenoid assembly comprising a plunger-return biasing member and at least one solenoid winding; a secondary solenoid assembly comprising a secondary solenoid winding at least partially circumscribing a secondary plunger, the secondary plunger being configured and arranged to electrically couple with a set of secondary solenoid assembly contacts; wherein the engine comprises: a ring gear positioned to enable the pinion to engage with the ring gear when movement of the plunger causes movement of the pinion; a ring gear speed sensor configured and arranged to measure a ring gear speed; and wherein the electronic control unit is configured and arranged to delay the engagement of the pinion with the ring gear until the speed of the ring gear is substantially zero RPM when the electronic control unit receives the restart signal in a zone wherein the speed of the ring gear is below a certain value and not equal to zero RPM.