Engine generator apparatus and method of operating same

DETAILED DESCRIPTION What is claimed is: 1.
An engine generator apparatus having a motor/generator operated in a motor mode for starting an engine and in a generator mode to be driven by the engine, comprising: first control means for minimizing field current when a changeover is made from the motor mode to the generator mode; second control means operable in the generator mode for maintaining rotational speed of the engine at a first set rotational speed until engine temperature attains a set temperature, and for outputting a signal, which increases the rotational speed of the engine to a second set rotational speed, to throttle-adjusting means after the engine temperature attains said set temperature; and third control means for increasing the field current of the motor/generator from the minimum state after the engine temperature attains said set temperature.
2.
The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said third control means increases the field current after the rotational speed of the engine attains said second set rotational speed.
3.
The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein temperature of engine coolant is used as the engine temperature.
4.
The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein after the motor/generator is supplied with the field current in the generator mode, the field current is regulated by a signal indicative of output voltage and adjustment of throttle opening is performed based on a signal indicating the rotational speed of the engine.
5.
The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising external terminals for a remote starter switch and a voltmeter for output voltage.
6.
The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein changeover from the motor mode to the generator mode is performed by mode changeover means comprising: a solenoid; a disk driven by said solenoid; a movable contact held by said disk; and a set of fixed contacts for being engaged and disengaged by said movable contact.
7.
The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said first through third control means comprise a programmed computer