Patents Represented by Law Firm Thompson & Knight, P.C.
  • Patent number: 5814966
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for improving the efficiency of operation of AC induction motors. The method and apparatus utilizes a microprocessor to tune a motor control system such that the time interval between the turn-on of a bi-directional switch and the time of sensing the resultant inrush current through the stator is maintained substantially constant as the load is varied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1998
    Assignee: National Power Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: David L. Williamson, Ryan Corley
  • Patent number: 5797482
    Abstract: An electroluminescent keypad, and an electroluminescent lamp, with integral shunts, for use in a keypad. The keypad includes a circuit board that includes a plurality of contact pairs adapted to complete circuits to perform keypad functions. An elastomeric sheet that includes a plurality of key elements overlays the circuit board. Each of the key elements is associated with one of the contact pairs. An electroluminescent lamp with a plurality of integral shunts corresponding to the contact pairs is positioned between the elastomeric sheet and the circuit board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1998
    Assignee: Metro-Mark, Inc.
    Inventors: Bradley J. LaPointe, David G. Sime
  • Patent number: 5797657
    Abstract: A truck includes a chassis with a body movably mounted to the chassis behind a cab. The body is movable between a first position generally parallel to the chassis and a second generally upright position with respect to the chassis. A canopy is movably mounted to the body. The canopy is movable between an extended position and a retracted position. In the extended position, the canopy extends outwardly from the body to cover the cab when said body is in the first position. The canopy is retractable to decrease the overall height of the truck when the body is in the generally upright second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1998
    Assignee: Western Technology Services International, Inc.
    Inventors: John A. D'Amico, Ted M. Atchley
  • Patent number: D421069
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Inventor: Gary D. Moore