1. A variable alternator loading device (100), the variable alternator loading device (100): a variable resistive load module (200) configured to be operatively coupled to an alternator of an internal combustion engine electrical system, the alternator being a 12 V or 24 V alternator having a current rating in a range of 1 ampere to 200 amperes; a plurality of resistive load elements (202) arranged to provide discrete load levels across the current range; a plurality of electrically actuated contactors operatively coupled to the plurality of resistive load elements (202), the plurality of electrically actuated contactors being selectively actuable to vary an electrical load applied to the alternator; a programmable logic controller communicatively coupled to the plurality of electrically actuated contactors, wherein the programmable logic controller is configured to selectively energize the plurality of electrically actuated contactors to achieve a desired alternator load; a control interface (102)

Description:VARIABLE ALTERNATOR LOADING DEVICE
FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0001] This invention generally relates to a field of an alternator loading system for vehicles, and in particular, to a variable alternator loading device and method thereof.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The subject matter discussed in the background section should not be assumed to be prior art merely as a result of its mention in the background section. Similarly, a problem mentioned in the background section or associated with the subject matter of the background section should not be assumed to have been previously recognized in the prior art. The subject matter in the background section merely represents different approaches, which in and of themselves may also correspond to implementations of the claimed technology.
[0003] Alternators are widely used in internal combustion engine systems to supply electrical power for vehicle-mounted electrical loads, auxiliary systems, and onboard energy storage devices such as batteries. During engine development, , Claims:We Claim:
1. A variable alternator loading device (100), the variable alternator loading device (100):
a variable resistive load module (200) configured to be operatively coupled to an alternator of an internal combustion engine electrical system, the alternator being a 12 V or 24 V alternator having a current rating in a range of 1 ampere to 200 amperes;
a plurality of resistive load elements (202) arranged to provide discrete load levels across the current range;
a plurality of electrically actuated contactors operatively coupled to the plurality of resistive load elements (202), the plurality of electrically actuated contactors being selectively actuable to vary an electrical load applied to the alternator;
a programmable logic controller communicatively coupled to the plurality of electrically actuated contactors, wherein the programmable logic controller is configured to selectively energize the plurality of electrically actuated contactors to achieve a desired alternator load;
a control interface (102)