Importance

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Abstract

A method and apparatus for detecting winding errors in electric motor stators having a plurality of field windings is disclosed. The method involves the steps of applying a current source to at least one of the field windings to generate a magnetic field within the stator, measuring the polarity and strength of the field for each winding at preselected radial and angular positions about a circumference of the stator bore, and comparing the measured values to recorded values of radially and angularly corresponding measurements for a reference motor stator. Preferably, the current source is applied to each of the windings in succession. The apparatus includes a terminal block, switch, and power supply to connect a source of current to each field winding in succession to generate a magnetic field within the stator. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a magnetic sensor mounted at a predetermined radial position for rotation on a shaft, and an encoder proximate the shaft to determine the angular position of the shaft. In a second embodiment, the apparatus includes a plurality of magnetic sensors mounted at preselected radial and angular positions about an arbor or drum sized to fit within the stator. Both embodiments include means for comparing the measured magnetic field values to recorded values of radially and angularly corresponding measurements for a reference motor stator.

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First Claim