METHOD AND DEVICE FOR QUANTITATIVELY DETERMINING THE SETTING OF AN ALTERNATOR

摘要

A method for quantitatively determining the setting of an alternator without removing or dismantling the alternator rotor, even when the width of the alternator air gap is no greater than 10 mm. The method uses a thin flat sensor with a recess on one side for receiving a piston. The sensor is inserted into the air gap and positioned in front of the wedge where the setting is to be determined, so that the piston is facing said wedge. A fluid is then injected into the sensor to urge the piston into contact with the wedge and press it thereagainst while the sensor is in engagement with the rotor. The pressure of the injected fluid, which is proportional to the force applied to the spring behind the wedge, is measured. Wedge movement when the pressure is exerted is also measured by means of a strain gauge attached to a flexible blade contacting the piston. The setting may thus be deduced from the measured force and movement. An apparatus for carrying out the method is also disclosed.