GENERATOR, DIRECT CURRENT, G-54()/G (HAND CRANKED).

The development achievements of this report period on the G-54 Generator can be divided into three phases 1 analyses and research leading up to and the recommendations embodied in the Design Plan, 2 fabrication and testing of the first and second experimental models, and 3 the design of the development model. In the Design Plan, both a conventional drive and a Harmonic Drive were recommended, and upon approval of USAECOM, were fabricated into the first experimental models. These units were evaluated and its was determined that improvements in the mounting assembly, electronic regulator, and acoustic noise emission level were desired. Noise reduction, consequently, became one of the major areas of development effort. Subsequent to studies and testing of various gearing and mounting concepts, a resilient suspension system was developed that reduced the noise level to within the tolerance limits specified. The development units will incorporate the Harmonic Drive assembly, determined to be more compatible with the program objectives than the conventional drive during testing of the experimental models. The basic electric circuit of the experimental units will be used for the development models, except that modifications were effected to reduce ripple voltage, provide automatic switching from voltage to current control, and improve the operation of the circuit under all environmental conditions. Further design modifications in the development unit are 1 a magnesium housing, 2 an improved crank, 3 a modified aluminum scissors mount, and 4 an improved strap and buckle arrangement for securing the generator to trees or poles. Author