Abstract:
Both a method and apparatus are disclosed for testing lead-acid storage batteries to determine the cranking amperes which the battery can supply at a predetermined low temperature, typically 0*F., when the battery is in fact at a different temperature. The invention derives from the battery, after a short discharge at substantially its cranking ampere rating, an electrical quantity representative of the actual terminal voltage of the battery at the end of the discharge, and converts this electrical quantity into an observable indication representing the terminal voltage which the battery would exhibit if similarly tested at the predetermined low temperature. The invention is based on the discovery that the terminal voltage of a lead-acid storage battery under load changes predictably with changes in temperature of the battery.
Abstract:
Battery charging method and apparatus for performing the method including a controlled rectifier and a trigger circuit in which a current transformer senses charging current, a voltage divider senses battery terminal voltage, and signals developed from both of the current and voltage sensing devices are used to control the operation of the trigger circuit. Current control is maintained during initial portion of the charging cycle with voltage control being substituted to diminish charging current after which a second current control maintains a closely controlled ''''trickle'''' charge level. The three control modes operate sequentially, all use the same common reference value and all control the same charging circuit valve. A second embodiment of the apparatus uses two controlled rectifiers, fired alternately.
Abstract:
Animal operated watering device of the ''''nipple valve'''' type in which the movable valve element is in the form of a thin flat disc of elastomeric material and the device is so constructed and arranged as to be actuatable by tilting of the valve operating member as well as to upward movement thereof.