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 starter system comprising:
a starter configured and arranged to be controlled by an electronic control unit, the starter further comprising: a motor coupled to a circuit; a primary plunger moveably coupled to a pinion; a first solenoid assembly comprising a plunger-return biasing member and at least two solenoid windings including a first set of solenoid windings and a second set of solenoid windings; the at least two solenoid windings at least partially circumscribing the primary plunger and configured and arranged to electromagnetically couple with and move the primary plunger to a position and to substantially retain the primary plunger in a position; a secondary solenoid assembly comprising a third set of solenoid windings 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; and at least two power isolation switches configured and arranged to be controlled by the electronic control unit, the at least two power isolation switches comprising a first switch configured and arranged to enable current to flow through the first set of solenoid windings and a second switch configured and arranged to be operated independently from the first switch to enable current to flow through the second set of solenoid windings and the third set of solenoid windings; and wherein current can flow through the second set of solenoid windings and the third set of solenoid windings irrespective of the position of the primary plunger.