Patents Assigned to Nicor, Inc.
  • Publication number: 20240120657
    Abstract: An antenna and antenna enclosure including a housing having a cylindrical first portion defining a hollow interior volume with an inner diameter, a cylindrical second portion defining a hollow interior portion having an inner diameter greater than the inner diameter of the first portion, and a disk disposed inside the second portion and defining a central hole. A rod is disposed in and extends through the central hole of the disk and is captured in the hollow interior volume of the cylindrical first portion. The rod defines a central opening and abuts an inner surface of the disk. A wire is arranged inside the central opening, and a cap covers the hollow interior of the cylindrical portion and engages the housing. A circuit board for the antenna is disposed on underside of the cap and connects to the wire.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2022
    Publication date: April 11, 2024
    Applicant: Nicor, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey A. COOK
  • Patent number: 11940468
    Abstract: An AMI/AMR in-ground meter box, including first and second side panels, each having an interior side and an exterior side; and first and second end panels, each having an interior side and an exterior side; wherein each of said side panels and end panels include a generally rectangular planar portion having a top edge, a bottom edge, a first interlocking end having a plurality of male elements and female slots, an arcuate second end having a 90-degree bend which forms a corner of the assembled meter box and terminating in an interlocking end having a plurality of male elements and female slots configured to interlock with paired male elements and female slots in said first interlocking end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2024
    Assignee: NICOR, INC.
    Inventor: Jeffrey A. Cook
  • Patent number: 11869341
    Abstract: An electronic door chime can meet safety standards and be compatible with smart doorbells and IOT doorbells. Current generation smart doorbells, also called IOT doorbells, require continuous power to drive the cameras, audio interfaces, and other components within the smart doorbell. Compatibility issues with prior art doorbell systems have emerged with the smart doorbell receiving inadequate power or power that doesn't meet the smart doorbell's input specification. In some cases, a prior art doorbell system is driven to failure or to excessive temperatures when the smart doorbell continuously draws too much power. A new electronic door chime can safely power the smart doorbells while also being compatible with simple push button doorbell devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2024
    Assignee: NICOR, INC.
    Inventors: Rocklan E. Lawrence, Qiang Hong
  • Patent number: 11842194
    Abstract: Systems and methods for illumination power, management and control can include lighting fixtures, lighting controllers, databases, and gateways. The lighting controllers can power the lighting fixtures, control the lighting fixtures, and store fixture state data and controller state data. The lighting controllers can be connected to building mains power (e.g., 240 VAC) and provide DC power to the lighting fixtures. The lighting controllers can read state data from and control the fixtures via a digital interface. The Database server can store user profiles, site profiles, fixture property data, and controller property data. The gateway can read and modify the state data stored by the lighting controllers, and can query the database server for the property data. The gateway can also provide a user interface through which users, based on authorization, can read and write the state data (e.g., fixture on/off) and the property data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2021
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2023
    Assignee: NICOR, INC.
    Inventors: David Brown, Lucas Jackson
  • Publication number: 20230396015
    Abstract: An electrical backshell that includes a strain relief having a flexible neck connected to a jacketed data cable proximate a terminal end of the data cable, and a cylindrical portion integral with said flexible neck; a base connector configured to accept and accommodate the terminal end of the data cable; a coupling nut configured to connect with said base connector and to engage said strain relief and to bring said cylindrical portion of said strain relief into sealing engagement with said base connector, wherein when assembled, said electrical backshell provides waterproof protection for electrical connectors in underground utility meter boxes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2023
    Publication date: December 7, 2023
    Applicant: Nicor, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey A. Cook
  • Patent number: 11680407
    Abstract: A system, method, and apparatus for post-tensioning in masonry-based system, especially concrete support systems. In one embodiment, a system is presented that can include an anchor, pocket-former, and bolt, wherein the pocket-former can be configured to engage each of the anchor and bolt to facilitate securing of the system to a form. In another embodiment, a method of post-tensioning is presented, wherein a tendon can be suspended at the live end via connections facilitated by a pocket-former. In another embodiment, a system and method of post-tensioning is presented that prevents a pocket and anchor from being contaminated with debris that could ultimately compromise the integrity of the tensioned material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2021
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2023
    Assignees: POST TECH MANUFACTURING, LLC, Nicor Inc.
    Inventors: Evan Langston, Bryant Morgan, Jeffrey Alan Cook
  • Patent number: 11664680
    Abstract: A system and apparatus comprise at least one power supply connected to a terminal bloc, an I/O system configured to receive instructions provided to the control system, a control block connected to the I/O system wherein the instructions provided to the I/O system are converted to a serial output; and a puck connected to the serial output and configured to receive power from the terminal block, to process the serial output, and to output a current.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2023
    Assignee: NICOR, INC.
    Inventors: David M. Brown, Trevor Shaw, Jorge A. Gomez Martinez
  • Patent number: 11620131
    Abstract: Systems and methods for illumination power, management and control can include lighting fixtures, lighting controllers, databases, and gateways. The lighting controllers can power the lighting fixtures, control the lighting fixtures, and store fixture state data and controller state data. The lighting controllers can be connected to building mains power (e.g., 240 VAC) and provide DC power to the lighting fixtures. The lighting controllers can read state data from and control the fixtures via a digital interface. The Database server can store user profiles, site profiles, fixture property data, and controller property data. The gateway can read and modify the state data stored by the lighting controllers, and can query the database server for the property data. The gateway can also provide a user interface through which users, based on authorization, can read and write the state data (e.g., fixture on/off) and the property data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2021
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2023
    Assignee: NICOR, INC.
    Inventors: David Brown, Lucas Jackson
  • Publication number: 20210381239
    Abstract: A system, method, and apparatus for post-tensioning in masonry-based system, especially concrete support systems. In one embodiment, a system is presented that can include an anchor, pocket-former, and bolt, wherein the pocket-former can be configured to engage each of the anchor and bolt to facilitate securing of the system to a form. In another embodiment, a method of post-tensioning is presented, wherein a tendon can be suspended at the live end via connections facilitated by a pocket-former. In another embodiment, a system and method of post-tensioning is presented that prevents a pocket and anchor from being contaminated with debris that could ultimately compromise the integrity of the tensioned material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2021
    Publication date: December 9, 2021
    Applicants: POST TECH MANUFACTURING, LLC, Nicor Inc.
    Inventors: Evan Langston, Bryant Morgan, Jeffrey Alan Cook
  • Patent number: 11047553
    Abstract: A luminaire a small number of carefully designed extrusions is easily manufactured. The housing is formed by joining four pieces having a first extrusion profile. A second extrusion profile is used for the side and end covers. A third profile is used for access covers. The housing frames a lens, such as an acrylic sheet, and long lines of LEDs are positioned to shine directly into the side of the lens. A reflective layer on the lens directs all or some of the LED light out the luminaire's front, perhaps directing some light out the back. Strategically positioned diffusors ensure a pleasing lighting effect. The result is a very thin and light weight luminaire having a large surface area. The luminaire can be suspended by threaded nipples, by cables threaded through holes in the back, or by brackets screwed to threaded inserts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2021
    Assignee: NICOR, INC.
    Inventors: Jorge Alfredo Gomez Martinez, David Brown, Ye Jin, Jiabin Yu, Zihai Lu, Trevor Shaw
  • Patent number: 11015776
    Abstract: Luminaire housings for architectural, industrial and warehouse applications have extrusions with parallel flat sides connected by a cross member. The wireway can be enclosed by the extrusion's roof or by cover segments clamped over an open top extrusion. Wireway openings provide access to the wireway. Nuts slid into T-channels in the roof or cover segments provide for mounting or suspension via wall brackets, cables, and housing brackets. Threaded nipples accessible through the roof or cover segments provide for pendant stem mounting. Continuous run brackets can join housings end to end. Optical elements slid into slots and channels in the housing can be retained by end caps. A housing cover over the wireway can be clamped in place by screws threaded into fixture brackets retained within the housing. The housing grooves in the cover segments can slidably engage the extrusion until the cover segments are clamped in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2021
    Assignee: NICOR, INC.
    Inventors: Jorge Alfredo Gomez Martinez, David Brown, Ye Jin, Jiabin Yu, Zihai Lu, Trevor Shaw
  • Patent number: 10914441
    Abstract: A lighting system having a LED downlight in a ceiling fixture can be attached to a ceiling by fixing hanger bars to ceiling rafters. The lighting system can then be completely covered by insulation. The insulation thereby lays directly on the downlight, junction box, and a cup passing mains power from the junction box to the downlight. The insulation does not enter the cup, downlight, or junction box. The lighting system does not ignite or melt the insulation in normal operation if the insulation meets residential and commercial safety standards. In normal operation the lighting system does not expose the lighting system to a temperature exceeding 90 degrees Celsius. A trim can be attached to the downlight to change its appearance and without rendering the lighting system unsafe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2021
    Assignee: NICOR, INC.
    Inventor: Rocklan E. Lawrence
  • Patent number: 10871275
    Abstract: A family of lighting systems uses a small number of standard parts or extrusions. The extrusions include end elements, spars, and heat sinks. Lightbars and uplights, having heat sinks, LED arrays, and lenses, use heat sinks with the same extrusion profile. The extruded parts can be slid together and then held in place by screws holding side panels to form a housing. Conditioned electrical power can drive the LED arrays. The conditioned power can be produced by power conditioners mounting on the housing. IP65, or better, components can be used to produce a rugged outdoor system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2020
    Assignee: NICOR, INC.
    Inventors: Jorge A. Gomez Martinez, David Brown
  • Patent number: 10865963
    Abstract: A luminaire for architectural, industrial and warehouse applications can be assembled using an extruded housing having curved sides connected by a cross member. Window openings in the curved sides can allow light to exit toward the sides of the luminaire while most of the light exits through a lens on the bottom. The extrusion can have channels and slots such that optical elements and an LED array can be slid into the housing and retained by endcaps. A housing cover can overlie a wireway while being held in place by screws creating a clamping force between the housing cover and fixture brackets retained within the housing. The luminaire can be suspended by the fixture brackets or by elements attached to the fixture brackets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: NICOR, INC.
    Inventors: David Brown, Trevor Shaw, Jorge Alfredo Gomez Martinez, Ye Jin, Jiabin Yu, Zihai Lu
  • Patent number: 10824427
    Abstract: A system and apparatus comprise at least one power supply connected to a terminal bloc, an I/O system configured to receive instructions provided to the control system, a control block connected to the I/O system wherein the instructions provided to the I/O system are converted to a serial output; and a puck connected to the serial output and configured to receive power from the terminal block, to process the serial output, and to output a current.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2020
    Assignee: NICOR, INC.
    Inventors: David Brown, Trevor Shaw, Jorge Alfredo Gomez Martinez
  • Patent number: 10720028
    Abstract: An electronic door chime can meet safety standards and be compatible with smart doorbells and IOT doorbells. Current generation smart doorbells, also called IOT doorbells, require continuous power to drive the cameras, audio interfaces, and other components within the smart doorbell. Compatibility issues with prior art doorbell systems have emerged with the smart doorbell receiving inadequate power or power that doesn't meet the smart doorbell's input specification. In some cases, a prior art doorbell system is driven to failure or to excessive temperatures when the smart doorbell continuously draws too much power. A new electronic door chime can safely power the smart doorbells while also being compatible with simple push button doorbell devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2020
    Assignee: NICOR, INC.
    Inventor: Rocklan E. Lawrence
  • Patent number: 10508783
    Abstract: A flush mount fixture can be installed directly into a junction box in ceiling while still meeting safety standards such as fire safety stands and electrical standards. The fixture can be electrically powered directly from the power lines entering the junction box. The components and materials have been designed and selected specifically for installation into a junction box to thereby provide a flush mounted fixture. By meeting all required safety standards, the lighting fixture is easy and quick to install. No additional cans, hanger bars, or similar devices are needed. The fixture's trim is removably attached such that it can be pulled away and replaced by a similar trim piece having a different color or decorative appearance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2019
    Assignee: Nicor, Inc.
    Inventor: Rocklan E. Lawrence
  • Publication number: 20190346117
    Abstract: A luminaire for architectural, industrial and warehouse applications can be assembled using an extruded housing having curved sides connected by a cross member. Windows in the curved sides can allow light to exit toward the sides of the luminaire while most of the light exits through a lens on the bottom. The extrusion can have channels and slots such that optical elements and an LED array can be slid into the housing and retained by end caps. A housing cover can overlie a wireway while being held in place by screws creating a clamping force between the housing cover and fixture brackets retained within the housing. The luminaire can be suspended by the fixture brackets or by elements attached to the fixture brackets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2018
    Publication date: November 14, 2019
    Applicant: Nicor, Inc
    Inventors: Jorge A. Gomez Martinez, David Brown, Ye Jin, Jiabin Yu, Zihai Lu
  • Patent number: D919167
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2021
    Assignee: NICOR, INC.
    Inventor: Jorge Alfredo Gomez Martinez
  • Patent number: D1014815
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2022
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2024
    Assignee: Nicor, Inc.
    Inventors: Yibo Xu, Jialiang Chen, Jibo Cao, Jiabin Yu