Abstract: According to one embodiment, a system with a multi-purpose switch for providing a power on function and other functions to a user comprises a temporary power control circuit configured to be coupled to and decoupled from a power source by the multi-purpose switch. The system also comprises a continuous power control circuit to provide continuous power. As a result, the multi-purpose switch is capable of providing other functions when the continuous power is being provided. In one embodiment, a method for utilizing a multi-purpose switch to provide a power on function and other functions to a user comprises coupling a temporary power control circuit to a power source by the multi-purpose switch, triggering a continuous power control circuit to provide continuous power, decoupling the temporary power control circuit from the power source by the multi-purpose switch, and making the multi-purpose switch available to provide other functions.
Abstract: A system for automatically detecting power supply voltage includes a voltage divider connected to a power supply, an A/D converter connected to the voltage divider, a detection module connected to the A/D converter for comparing a digital signal converted by the A/D converter with a reference signal stored in the detection module, a relay driving circuit connected to the detection module, a relay connected to the relay driving circuit and the power supply respectively, and an outlet coupled to the relay for outputting voltage. If the digital signal matches the reference signal, the detection module controls the relay driving circuit to turn on the relay to output voltage at the outlet. Relevant method for detecting power supply voltage is also provided.
Abstract: To reduce the space of a control device having a power circuit and an electronic component, the power circuit including components to which higher currents are applied, in particular currents in the range of 5 A to 70 A, and the electronic component including a switching logic realized on a circuit board, the electrical connections between the components of the power circuit are realized by a single-layer pressed screen. Receptacles for the contact pins of the components are formed in the pressed screen. The receptacles are arranged and formed in such a way that the components are held in frictional engagement in the receptacles and are electrically contacted via the contact pins.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
November 29, 2002
Date of Patent:
April 28, 2009
Assignee:
Robert Bosch GmbH
Inventors:
Piotr Deptula, Werner Birkle, Joachim Schenk, Jochen Wessner
Abstract: The slew rate of switching circuits, e.g. for DC to DC converters, is controlled without unduly sacrificing total switching time, by providing a weaker switching transistor in parallel with each stronger main switching transistor. Switching of the weaker transistor is controlled so as to have a slower slew rate in transitions between switch states than transitions of the main transistor. The main transistor switches at a fast rate for efficiency, but the slower transition by the weaker transistor provides a more gradual transition of the voltage at the desired switching node, so as to reduce EMI and/or input supply noise.
Abstract: A down converter includes an integrated circuit, which includes a control FET (CF) and a synchronous rectifier FET (SF). The control FET is a lateral double-diffused (LDMOS) FET, and the conductivity-type of the LDMOS FET and the conductivity-type of the substrate are of the same type.
Type:
Application
Filed:
October 28, 2008
Publication date:
March 26, 2009
Inventors:
Adrianus Willem Ludikhuize, Jacob Antonius Van der Pol, Raymond J. Grover
Abstract: A circuit for servicing a load connectable with a power supply is disclosed. The circuit includes a plurality of three-terminal switches and one control supply. The three-terminal switches define a series conduction path connectable between the power supply and the load. Each of the plurality of three terminal switches includes a source terminal, a drain terminal, and a gate terminal. The control supply is productive of a control voltage and in power connection between the gate terminal and source terminal of each of the plurality of three-terminal switches. Each of the plurality of three-terminal switches is responsive to the control voltage at its respective gate terminal to close a connection between the respective source terminal and respective drain terminal of each of the plurality of three-terminal switches.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
September 20, 2007
Date of Patent:
March 24, 2009
Assignee:
General Electric Company
Inventors:
Brent Charles Kumfer, Robert Keith Hollenbeck
Abstract: A high-speed multiple channel and line selector switch allows the simultaneous selection of the two lines of a differential channel and permits the simultaneous selection of multiple channels by introduction of the appropriate high speed pad connectivity.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
April 30, 2004
Date of Patent:
March 24, 2009
Assignee:
Avago Technologies General IP (Singapore) Pte. Ltd.
Abstract: A power controlling integrated circuit cell is provided within an integrated circuit power grid to selectively couple an unswitched power supply input to a switched power supply output. The power controlling integrated circuit cell also includes a power control signal input and a power control signal output for supporting the distribution through the integrated circuit of the power control signal. The power controlling integrated circuit cell has a power switching circuit responsive to a power control input signal received at the power control signal input to selectively connect the switched power supply output to the unswitched power supply input, and a power control signal buffer circuit responsive to the switched power supply output to drive a power control output signal from the power control signal output.
Type:
Application
Filed:
July 25, 2005
Publication date:
March 12, 2009
Inventors:
David Walter Flynn, David William Howard, Dhrumil Gandhi, John Philip Biggs
Abstract: A switch device includes a substantially disk-shaped operator; a substantially ring-shaped indicator provided between the operator and the light emitting elements disposed below the operator; and a visible portion formed in the center of an inner periphery of the operator. Since the indicator carrying indications of equipment functions in characters, symbols, figures or the like is formed separately from the operator, the indications will never turn sideways or upside down owing to the rotation of the operator.
Abstract: A system for use with an electrical distribution panel having a bonded neutral connection. In some embodiments, the system includes a generator having a first bonded neutral connection and a ground fault circuit interrupter. The system also includes a neutral bus that is connected to either the bonded neutral connection of the distribution panel or the bonded neutral connection of the generator. Additionally, the system includes a switch for disconnecting the neutral bus from the bonded neutral connection of the distribution panel and connecting the neutral bus to the bonded neutral connection of the generator.
Type:
Application
Filed:
August 30, 2007
Publication date:
March 5, 2009
Applicant:
BRIGGS AND STRATTON CORPORATION
Inventors:
Russell C. Nordman, Kenny J. Stair, Brandon Michael Batzler
Abstract: An electronic system controls one or more electrical loads, which are controlled in an “on/off” manner by a ultra low power controller that is isolated for a primary power circuit or derives its very low switch power from the ballast itself. The on/off control provides a near lossless control system. This system may be applied to various loads including electronic ballasted loads and operates at fractional power levels corresponding to different lighting intensities and with conventional occupancy sensors. The system may also be applied to other electronically compatible end-use devices and applications.
Abstract: A system for remotely controlling and monitoring an electrical system includes an electrical system controlling device connected to the electrical system for monitoring and controlling the electrical system and electronic controls for monitoring and controlling the electrical system controlling device. A wireless communications interface enables remote wireless access to the electronic controls.
Abstract: A method of using a single pole, single throw switch having normally open contacts in a conductive path in a non-intuitive manner in an electric circuit to sequentially provide three operable states including latched engagement (path closed, circuit OFF), momentary disengagement (path opened, circuit ON momentarily), and latched disengagement (path open, circuit ON until switch actuated again).
Type:
Grant
Filed:
January 10, 2006
Date of Patent:
February 17, 2009
Assignee:
Bayco Products, Ltd.
Inventors:
Bijan Bayat, James Newton, Robert Lee Ellis
Abstract: An improved light switch with light regulator is described. It includes a housing, a radiating aluminum plate, a panel frame, a micro-switch, a titling-board for the switch, a light regulator circuit board having mounted thereon a silicon controlled rectifier and an inductor. The housing is mounted on one side of the radiating aluminum plate and the panel frame and titling-board are located on the other side of the aluminum plate. The panel frame is provided with a sliding slit which accommodates a sliding button connected to a sliding variable resistor on the circuit board. The micro-switch, circuit board, silicon controlled rectifier and inductor are disposed inside the housing. A plurality of hollow plastic casings are provided between the circuit board and the radiating aluminum plate, a hollow copper rivet is provided inside each casing to rivet the circuit board and the radiating aluminum plate together.
Abstract: A vehicular lighting control system for controlling the illumination of a vehicle's external directional/turn signaling and/or hazard lighting, by controlling continuous illumination of pairs of the brightest filaments of single or dual filament bulb designed vehicles. The system controls to operate the brightest filaments when the operator wishes to draw attention to the vehicle for safety, or for visibility purposes, without the same system negatively affecting normal operation of existing turn signal/hazard warning systems. The system automatically and manually controls the light output as desired by the vehicle operator, incorporates the vehicle's internal turn signal bulb-failure indication subsystem to continuously monitor the target bulbs for any failure event, and employs a dynamic safety reconnect feature, an attribute which reconnects factory wiring with factory bulbs instantaneously with any signaling or hazards activation.
Abstract: The position of an RF switch, or switches, in a matrix switch drive system is monitored using AC rather than DC measurement techniques. Using the same wiring as the matrix switch drive system so as not to increase the size and weight of the switch installation, a low current AC signal is provided during non-actuation of the RF switch(es) to each of plural combinations of a capacitor and a microswitch serially connected across each switch coil. With the capacitor and switch coil exhibiting inverse impedance responses to increasing AC frequency, when the microswitch is open only the coil impedance is read and when the microswitch is closed only the capacitor impedance is read. Using a switch coil with an inductance of 1 henry and a capacitor with a capacitance of 0.1 farads, the difference in impedance between the microswitch ON and OFF states is an easily detectable two orders of magnitude.
Abstract: A medical system comprises a power supply coupled to an implant assembly, the power supply configured for detecting an energy delivery type of the implantable assembly and delivering electrical energy to the implant assembly in a mode corresponding to the detected energy delivery type, thereby electrolytically severing the joint. In another embodiment, a power supply is provided for use with a medical device having an elongated member and a terminal disposed on a proximal end of the elongated member. The power supply including power delivery circuitry, an electrical contact coupled to the power delivery circuitry, a port configured for receiving the proximal end of the elongated member, and an electrically insulative compliant member configured for urging the electrical terminal into contact with the electrical contact when the proximal end of the elongated member is received into the port.
Type:
Application
Filed:
July 1, 2008
Publication date:
January 15, 2009
Applicant:
Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
Inventors:
Mehran Bashiri, Scott Merchel, Russell Ford
Abstract: In a rechargeable battery with a fuse for guarding against external short circuits, to make it possible to design the rechargeable battery independently of the possibly high normal continuous current, it is proposed that a signal connection existing between the rechargeable battery and a device provided for drawing current be utilized. To that end, a switch is provided, which is connected parallel to the fuse and which responds to certain electrical signals of the device. The signals can be delivered to the switch via the signal connection, so that the switch bypasses the fuse, once the signal connection is established and the aforementioned signals occur.
Abstract: An Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) having a switch configured to connect one of two sources to a load, a mechanical drive, an actuator, and a solid state control relay is disclosed. The mechanical drive is configured to drive the switch between a first position and a second position, the first position connecting the switch to the first source, and the second position connecting the switch to the second source. The actuator is in mechanical communication with the mechanical drive to cause the mechanical drive to move on command. The solid state control relay is responsive to an external signal and productive of a control signal, wherein the actuator is responsive to the control signal to cause the mechanical drive to move.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
November 21, 2005
Date of Patent:
December 23, 2008
Assignee:
General Electric Company
Inventors:
Mark Anthony Serrano, Faroog Shamieh, Kenneth C. Krchak
Abstract: Grip actuated control system to provide operational control of vehicle functions at a gripping surface of handlebar equipped vehicles. The system can be provided as original equipment and as an aftermarket addition or replacement for existent vehicle controls. The system includes one or more grip controls positioned adjacent a user's fingertips in a grip or glove assembly which are in communication with a control module. The control module is connected to existent or provided vehicle wiring and thus to respective operational equipment such that user actuation of a grip control induces the control module to provide a corresponding output to activate/deactivate or regulate the operation of the respective vehicle equipment. Communication between the grip controls and control module can be wireless for increased flexibility in installation and placement of the module on the vehicle. Combinations, sequences, and relative timing of the grip controls can provide numerous distinct control functions.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
December 11, 2006
Date of Patent:
December 16, 2008
Inventors:
Timothy Gerard Ledford, Steven O'toole Dodson
Abstract: A system and method for control of an electric power distribution system is provided, which uses a communication network for centralized monitoring and control of the supply of electricity to a load. In one embodiment, the invention may use a wireless communication system connecting control nodes and master nodes to control and monitor a solid state power controller. As a result, the master node may remotely turn on and off the electrical power to the load. Also the control node may sense the current being supplied to the load and may turn off the supply of electrical power in the event of an over current situation. The control node may also report the state of the sensed current to the master node. In another embodiment, the communication system may be a power line carrier network.
Abstract: An integrated circuit device provides a choice of external pins (connections) that may be user selectable for coupling an external filter/stabilization capacitor to an internal voltage regulator. However, connecting the output of a internal voltage regulator to an uncharged external filter/stabilization capacitor (or to a capacitor charged to a different voltage level than the internal regulation voltage) through a low impedance path can cause the regulator output voltage to sag/spike if the internal voltage regulator tries to charge/discharge the capacitor up/down to equilibrium with the regulator output voltage. To minimize this potential sag/spike, the voltage on the external filter/stabilization capacitor may be adjusted in a controlled manner to substantially the same voltage as the voltage on the output of the internal voltage regulator, and then the internal voltage regulator is operationally coupled through a low impedance to the external regulator filter/stabilization capacitor.
Type:
Application
Filed:
April 22, 2008
Publication date:
November 6, 2008
Inventors:
Richard HULL, Vivien DELPORT, Zacharias Marthinus SMIT, Sean STEEDMAN, Jerrold S. ZDENEK, Michael CHARLES, Ruan LOURENS
Abstract: Described herein are various embodiments of a fuse module for fused electrical devices. According to one exemplary embodiment, a fuse module is mounted to the housing of a fused electrical device. The fused electrical device can include at least one power output displaced along the power distribution housing with the at least one power output electrically couplable to at least one power input. The fuse module can be electrically coupled to the at least one power input and electrically couplable to the at least one power outputs. Further, the fuse module can comprise at least one fuse holder that is movable between a first position in which a fuse held by the fuse holder is electrically couplable to the at least one power output and a second position in which a fuse held by the fuse holder not electrically couplable to the at least one power output and is exposed to allow access to the fuse.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
December 7, 2006
Date of Patent:
November 4, 2008
Assignee:
Server Technology, Inc.
Inventors:
Carrel W. Ewing, Brandon W. Ewing, Andrew J. Cleveland, James P. Maskaly
Abstract: An information processing apparatus, which is capable of improving security and operationality in handling of storage media, includes a system bay and a data bay that are provided on the main body of the information processing apparatus and allow respective disks to be removably mounted therein, and a second control portion that controls the system bay and the data bay. The second control portion controls the system bay and the data bay in such a way as to prevent the disks from being removed from the system bay and the data bay when the disks have been mounted in the system bay and the data bay.
Abstract: An electrical communication switch, an electrical communication outlet, an electrical communication companion device, and an electrical communication system are provided. The electrical communication switch includes a user-controlled switch having a plurality of switch leads and a controller. The controller is coupled to the user-controlled switch. The controller is configured to determine a change of state of the switch, and upon determining the switch has changed state to a new state, to send a signal. The electrical communication outlet includes a socket having a plurality of socket slots, at least one controlled switch, and a controller. The controller is coupled to said at least one controlled switch and is configured to receive a signal and to change a state of at least one of said at least one controlled switch pursuant to the signal.
Abstract: The present disclosure relates to simplified monitoring and transmission of a binary switch position by means of coded switching, in which corrections caused by different pulse edge delays are eliminated. According to the disclosure, an auxiliary voltage which is to be transmitted when the switch position is closed is coded using two identical pulse edges of two different pulses, that is to say using either the two connection edges or the two disconnection edges of the two pulses. As a result, the previously known pulse duration modulation is replaced with modulation of the delay time between the two pulses. The two pulses mentioned can be repeatedly generated inside a basic period, which is independent of the auxiliary voltage, and have, for distinguishing purposes, a connection duration or pulse length which is different but is independent of the auxiliary voltage.
Abstract: A power supply includes at least one current source for providing current and a reference voltage generator for providing a first reference voltage and a second reference voltage. A control circuit selectively couples the current to the power supply output as a function of a monitored voltage, the first reference voltage, and the second reference voltage.
Abstract: A power switching device which is used to receive plenty of input voltage and output a switch voltage is provided. The device comprises a first switching unit, a second switching unit, and a self-bias unit. The power switching device outputs a switch voltage according to the outputs of the first switching unit and the second switching unit. The self-bias unit outputs a reference voltage to the second switching unit. The first switching unit outputs a first input voltage as the switch voltage according to a first enable signal. The second switching unit outputs a second input voltage as the switch voltage according to the reference voltage and a second enable signal.
Abstract: An electrical load status detection and control device includes a first power supply circuit loop with a first switch, a second power supply circuit loop with a second switch, a no-load status detection unit connected with the second power supply circuit loop for detecting the current passing through the second power supply circuit loop and thereby generating a current detection signal. A micro-controller connected with a reference current value database, the no-load status detection unit, the first switch and the second switch, which receives the current detection signal from the no-load status detection unit. The micro-controller generates a switching signal to actuate the first switch and the second switch to thereby open the first power supply circuit loop and the second power supply circuit loop when detecting the current passing through the second power supply circuit loop out of the reference current value range of the reference current value database.
Abstract: Apparatus and methods for control of one or more functions within a premises. In one embodiment, the control apparatus comprises a “universal” electronic switch which can be configured according to any number of different desired functional and/or aesthetic schemes. The apparatus uses removable and replaceable control elements which are purely mechanical in nature, thereby allowing consolidation of all electrical functions within the parent control module. An improved control circuit including thermal overload protection is also disclosed, as are methods of operating and manufacturing the apparatus.
Abstract: A switching device for RS-232 serial port and USB serial port is adapted to simultaneously provide a RS-232 serial port and a USB serial port for a micro-processor with a single USART. The switching device can automatically switch to select either of the RS-232 serial port or the USB serial port as a main interface for communicating with other external computer facilities and related peripheries. When one of the serial ports is selected as the main communication interface to communicate with one of external computers, the other one serial port thereof still can transmit signals from the micro-processor to another computer through its transmitting data pin (TXD).
Abstract: A transfer switch assembly is disclosed that includes a power switch device with a number engagement landings and a printed circuit board defining an opening bordered by a number of tabs. The tabs engage the landings as the switch device extends through the openings, and can be fastened together.
Type:
Application
Filed:
December 28, 2007
Publication date:
July 3, 2008
Inventors:
Jerry Murray, Allen B. Carney, Randall L. Bax, Elias Ayana, Roger Pautzke, John McCarthy
Abstract: A tact switch module is provided. The tact switch module includes a tact switch to control a driving voltage to be supplied to a power supply by sensing an ON input by a user; and a power control unit having a power input port which is connected to the power supply and a power output port to output a first voltage when power is supplied to the power input port, wherein the driving voltage triggers the power supply to output the power, and the power supply supplies the power to the power input port while the first voltage is supplied from the power output of the power control unit.
Abstract: Method and apparatus for switching high power at high repetition rates. The apparatus is preferably a switch utilizing a pressurized flowing dielectric. The pressurized dielectric suppresses growth of dielectric breakdown byproducts, such as large bubbles and breakdown contamination, enabling lower dielectric flow rates to remove the byproducts. In addition to the advantage of lower flow rates, and thus smaller and lighter pumping means, the switch can switch high energies (up to megajoules) at fast repetition rates, up to thousands of pulses per second. The switch is preferably triggered to reduce jitter. The switch can also be used to remove water from oil.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
June 13, 2006
Date of Patent:
June 24, 2008
Assignees:
Alpha-Omega Power Technologies Ltd. Co., The Curators of the University of Missouri, The Boeing Company
Inventors:
William Ray Cravey, Randy D. Curry, Kenneth Fox McDonald, Glenn A. Anderson, Richard Sears
Abstract: The invention relates to a disconnecting switch assembly for disconnecting air-insulated electrical lines, which have one or more phases, with at least one grounded housing that is filled with protective gas, with open air ducts, which are attached to the housing(s) in a gastight manner and which each have an open-air connection for connecting the lines, and with gas-insulated disconnecting switches, which are placed inside the open-air ducts. At least three open air ducts are provided for each phase whose open-air connections can be electrically connected to one another by means of the disconnecting switch over current path piece mounted inside the housing.
Abstract: A control device for an electric hob has a control element placed on a support. Circular ring segmental surfaces are provided as signal generators beneath the support. On the top side and underside, the control element has numerous electrically interconnected, circular ring segmental surfaces, the lower surfaces being above the signal generators during rotation. The application of a finger to a contact surface on the control element top side is directly coupled to a sensor surface on the control element underside and can be capacitively detected by a directly facing signal generator and evaluated as a corresponding control function by a control device.
Abstract: Apparatus for providing electrical power to at least one inductor wherein the at least one inductor is disposed to inductively couple the electrical power to an electrically conductive object to heat the electrically conductive object by inducing electrical current to flow in the electrically conductive object, the apparatus comprising at least one inductor, at least one first half-bridge converter coupled across a DC bus and having an output coupled to a first terminal of the at least one inductor; and at least one second half bridge converter coupled across the DC bus and having an output coupled to a second terminal of the at least one inductor, each half bridge converter having first and second alternately conductive series connected switches connected between the DC bus, the at least one inductor being energized by alternately turning on respective ones of the first and second switches of each converter to cause current to flow from the DC bus alternatingly through the at least one inductor from the firs
Abstract: A pressure sensor device (1) includes a sensing element (2) for sending an analog signal according to pressure. The pressure sensor device (1) outputs the analog voltage to a microcomputer (20) through an input-output terminal (8). An input-output control circuit (4) monitors the voltage value in the input-output terminal (8). When the voltage of the input-output terminal (8) is set to high by the microcomputer (20) and is dislocated from a predetermined range, the input-output control circuit (4) functionally changes the input-output terminal (8) outputting a detecting signal to a terminal for inputting an external signal from the microcomputer. After the input-output terminal (8) is changed to the terminal for inputting the external signal, a range control circuit (7) fetches an external command signal through the input-output terminal (8) and switches the output characteristics.
Abstract: An enclosure assembly includes a first enclosure unit including a first door, a second enclosure unit, and a handle coupled to the second enclosure unit, the handle being operative so as to turn on or turn off power to the first enclosure unit, and wherein the first enclosure unit and the second enclosure unit are configured such that the first door cannot be opened if the handle has not been turned to a power-off position.
Type:
Application
Filed:
October 24, 2006
Publication date:
April 24, 2008
Inventors:
John G. Whitt, Kent G. Messing, Robert M. Kalstabakken
Abstract: The present invention discloses a control structure for a power supply, which comprises: a primary power system, a power switching unit, and at least one switch. The primary power system transforms an external source power into DC powers. The power switching unit is normally electrically connected with the primary power system and normally driven by a DC power output by the primary power system. The switch is installed on a DC power cable supplying DC power to an internal electronic device. Thereby, when the computer is turned off, the present invention will not be affected but can still provide DC powers to external electronic devices. Further, even though the computer is turned off, the present invention can still provide the external electronic devices with the maximum power (when only the primary power system is installed) or the total power (when the primary power system is connected in parallel with a regular power system).
Abstract: Embodiments of a power distribution apparatus that is adaptable to be readily mounted within a variety of differing types of electronic equipment racks are herein described. One such embodiment provides power distribution apparatus having an upper mounting adapter. The upper mounting adapter may be attachable to a housing of the power distribution apparatus or may be integrally formed therein. Another embodiment provides power distribution apparatus having a lower mounting adapter. The lower mounting adapter may be attachable to the housing of the power distribution apparatus or may be integrally formed in the housing. A further embodiment provides power distribution apparatus having at least one mounting peg mounting in mating holes formed in a rack. The mounting pegs may be attachable to a housing of the power distribution apparatus or may be integrally formed therein.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
March 7, 2007
Date of Patent:
December 25, 2007
Assignee:
Server Technology, Inc.
Inventors:
Carrel W. Ewing, Andrew J. Cleveland, James P. Maskaly, Dennis W. McGlumphy
Abstract: Method and apparatus for switching high power at high repetition rates. The apparatus is preferably a switch utilizing a pressurized flowing dielectric. The pressurized dielectric suppresses growth of dielectric breakdown byproducts, such as large bubbles and breakdown contamination, enabling lower dielectric flow rates to remove the byproducts. In addition to the advantage of lower flow rates, and thus smaller and lighter pumping means, the switch can switch high energies (up to megajoules) at fast repetition rates, up to thousands of pulses per second.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
June 17, 2004
Date of Patent:
December 25, 2007
Assignees:
Alpha-Omega Power Technologies, The Curators of the University of Missouri, The Boeing Company
Inventors:
William Ray Cravey, Randy D. Curry, Kenneth Fox McDonald, Glenn A. Anderson
Abstract: A remote controlled circuit breaker switch handle engagement apparatus is provided. The apparatus is adapted to be removably attached across a circuit breaker face-plate of a traditional residential and commercial circuit breaker in order to facilitate remote completion of a circuit between a source and load, thereby reestablishing electrical service having been previously interrupted. The apparatus utilizes a handle trip assembly which engages an operating switch handle of the circuit breaker.
Abstract: A method and a device for shutting down a drive during a power outage are disclosed. The method and device include a matrix converter, several commutation capacitors on the power line side, a switch unit on the power line side and a resistor unit. During a power outage, the matrix converter is immediately disconnected from the power supply, and the resistor unit is connected to the input terminals of the matrix converter in such a way that the amplitude of a voltage applied to the resistor unit equals the amplitude of an actual capacitor voltage space vector, and the speed setpoint is set to zero. This enables a drive with a matrix converter to be shut down during a power outage by way of a pulsed resistor.
Abstract: Power converters such as power modules configured as inverters employ modularized approaches. In some aspects, semiconductor devices are thermally coupled directly to thermally conductive substrates without intervening dielectric or insulative structures. Additionally, or alternatively, semiconductor devices are thermally coupled to thermally conductive substrates with relatively large surface areas before heat transferred from the semiconductor devices encounters a dielectric or electrically insulating structure with correspondingly high thermal impedance.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
December 13, 2004
Date of Patent:
October 30, 2007
Assignee:
Siemens VDO Automotive Corporation
Inventors:
Pablo Rodriguez, Douglas K. Maly, Ajay V. Patwardhan, Kanghua Chen, Sayeed Ahmed, Gerardo Jimenez, Fred Flett
Abstract: A radio terminal device realizing reduced power consumption and prompt detection of detection object by using a first sensor and a second sensor whose ON/OFF states are opposite and whose operations are synchronized. When the first sensor detects a detection object, the first output voltage level is changed. When a processor detects the change of the output voltage level as an interrupt signal, the drive voltage level of the first sensor is switched to low and the drive voltage level of the second sensor is switched to high. Moreover, when the second sensor detects a detection object, the output voltage level of the second sensor is changed. When the processor detects the change of the output voltage level as an interrupt signal, the drive voltage level of the second sensor is switched to low and the drive voltage level of the first circuit is switched to high.
Abstract: A system to monitor the health of a structure, sensor nodes, program product, and associated methods are provided. The system includes an array of health monitoring sensor nodes connected to or embedded within a structure to monitor the health of the structure. The health monitoring sensor nodes include sensor elements positioned to sense parameters of the structure and to provide data related to the parameters to a health monitoring sensor node data collector. The sensor nodes can each include an energy harvester to harvest energy to power the sensor node. The system also includes an energy distributing node positioned to provide energy to the sensor nodes, through the structure being monitored, to be harvested by energy harvester of the sensor nodes.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
November 23, 2005
Date of Patent:
October 2, 2007
Assignee:
Lockheed Martin Corporation
Inventors:
Ertugrul Berkcan, Emad Andarawis, Robert Wojnarowski
Abstract: A radio wall switch that uses radio signals to control a load through a load circuit is disclosed. The radio wall switch is also configured group or bind electronic devices to operate collectively by responding to the same radio control signals. Preferably, the radio wall switch and electronic devices are grouped or bound to reflect their location in a floor plan architecture. The radio wall switch includes a radio control board is configured to be removable and located outside of a wall receptacle while electrically coupled to the load circuit. The radio control board includes contact switches that are selectively depressed by a switch plate for manually controlling the load. The switch plate is flexible and can be deformed to simultaneously actuate multiple contact switches to place the radio wall switch in a program mode for grouping or binding the other electronic devices.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
April 4, 2005
Date of Patent:
September 25, 2007
Assignee:
The Watt Stopper, Inc.
Inventors:
Roar Viola, Betrand Debever, Roy Nishi, Loiua Weidman
Abstract: An apparatus for generating a multiway packet is provided. The apparatus includes a setting module that sets a multiway switch group by selecting multiple switches; a packet-generating module that generates a data packet according to the set multiway switch group; and a transmission module that transmits the generated data packet to the multiple switches.
Abstract: Disclosed is a control element or switching element that is provided with elements which electrically or chemically respond to the sense of touch, for example in a steering wheel. The elements are used for supplying the driver who touches the elements with warnings and/or information about the state of the vehicle or traffic. Interactive functions can be connected thereto, by means of which replies by the driver can be detected and processed. The driver can consequently cause the information system of the vehicle to also represent the warning information in an optical manner, e.g. in corresponding control lights on the dashboard, at a desired time.