With Locking, Holding Or Braking Means Patents (Class 307/142)
  • Patent number: 11879271
    Abstract: A storage lock for a storage door, the lock comprising a lock housing for mounting to the storage door or a storage frame supporting the door; and a lock mechanism arranged within the lock housing, the lock mechanism comprising a latch selectively operable between a locked position in which the latch is extended to engage with the other of the storage door and storage frame to block against opening of the storage door, and an unlocked position in which the latch is retracted to disengage from the other of the storage door and storage frame to allow the storage door to be opened for access to storage, and a latch control system selectively operable between a restricted position to block against operation of the latch out from the locked position, and an unrestricted position to permit operation of the latch out from the locked position to the unlocked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2022
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2024
    Assignee: JANUS INTERNATIONAL GROUP, LLC
    Inventors: Rajiv Mantena, David Gengler, Jacob Gosling
  • Patent number: 11799289
    Abstract: The disclosure provides a grid-tied power generation system and a grid-tied power fluctuation suppression device and method thereof. The system includes a first direct current source, an inverter, and a power grid. The device includes a second direct current source, connected to a direct current side of the inverter; and a power allocation unit, respectively connected to the second direct current source and the inverter. The power allocation unit obtains a power reference value of the first direct current source and a power feedback value of the first direct current source, calculates an alternating current power reference value and a power reference value of the second direct current source according to the power reference value and the power feedback value, and controls the inverter through the alternating current power reference value and controls the second direct current source through the power reference value of the second direct current source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2022
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2023
    Assignees: Wanbang Digital Energy Co., Ltd., Wanbang Star Charge Technology Ltd.
    Inventors: Xuancai Zhu, Shen Chen, Xianfeng Yu, Xu Wang
  • Patent number: 11791634
    Abstract: An exemplary renewable-energy system including a back end system coupled to an isolated DC power source and a generator powered by a renewable energy source and including first circuitry configured to convert first AC power from the generator to DC power and to provide the DC power to a DC power bus, the first circuitry further configured to initiate operation using power from the isolated DC power source. The example system further includes a front end system comprising an inverter coupled to an isolated DC power source generator. The inverter includes a ground isolation monitor interrupter (IMI) circuit coupled to the DC power bus and configured to receive the DC power and convert the DC power to second AC power for provision to a power grid. The isolated power source generator ground-isolates third AC power of the power grid for conversion to DC power for the isolated DC power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2022
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2023
    Assignee: XFlow Energy Company
    Inventors: Ian D. Brownstein, Benjamin W. Strom, Jason A. Mavis
  • Patent number: 11749992
    Abstract: A distribution feeder of an electricity grid comprises a substation and a plurality of nodes with at least one controllable reactive power resource. A method is provided for locally controlling delivery of electrical power along the distribution feeder, wherein for a feeder segment in the distribution feeder the method comprises: obtaining an actual voltage magnitude at an upstream node and at a downstream node of the feeder segment, and a real power value at the upstream node; setting a target voltage phasor at the downstream node as a value when a power flow across the feeder segment is maintained, and when equal reactive power is injected at the upstream and downstream nodes that consumes all the reactive power in the feeder segment; and adjusting operation of the at least one controllable reactive power resource so that the actual voltage magnitude at the downstream node moves towards a target voltage magnitude of the target voltage phasor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2021
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2023
    Assignee: Power Management Holdings (U.S.), Inc.
    Inventors: Malcolm S. Metcalfe, Severin Nowak
  • Patent number: 11750119
    Abstract: Power supply hold-up time is increased using regenerative braking. A power line disturbance (“PLD”) event is detected in a power supply unit. One or more fan motors associated with the power supply unit may be signaled to provide regenerative braking based on identifying the PLD event, where the one or more fan motors transition from a motor operating mode to a regenerative braking mode. The regenerative braking may be applied to the one or more fan motors associated with the power supply unit, where a hold-up time is extended to prevent shut down of the power supply unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2021
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2023
    Assignee: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Michael Lee Miller, Bret P. Elison
  • Patent number: 11710966
    Abstract: A server that manages energy of a power grid by using a plurality of energy storage resources includes a loss obtaining unit and a selector. The loss obtaining unit obtains for each of the plurality of energy storage resources, energy loss including retention loss and input and output loss, the energy loss being caused in storing energy in each energy storage resource. When surplus electric power occurs in the power grid, the selector selects at least one energy storage resource for storing surplus electric power from among the plurality of energy storage resources based on the energy loss caused in storing surplus electric power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2022
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2023
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Nobuyuki Orihashi, Shigeki Kinomura, Tamaki Ozawa, Chiaki Kanda
  • Patent number: 11211216
    Abstract: An electrical relay (2) includes an electromagnetic drive system for providing bi-directional drive. The electrical relay (2) includes a first a coil (212) and a second coil (213). A current is supplied to the coils (212) and (213) in opposite directions. The two coils (212) and (213) can be used to accelerate the armature in either direction in relation to the two contacts. This can be used to drive the armature to either one of the contacts and to accelerate and decelerate the armature during a single transit. In the latter regard, the armature can be accelerated and decelerated to shorten the transit time, reduce bounce, reduce wear on the contacts, and allow for different contact material options.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2021
    Assignee: Zonit Structured Solutions, LLC
    Inventors: Steve Chapel, William Pachoud
  • Patent number: 9829886
    Abstract: A flight control system is provided. The system includes a primary circuit board, a secondary circuit board electrically connected to the primary circuit board, a system on chip (SOC) integrated chip, a power management chip configured to supply power to the SOC integrated chip, an electronic speed control (ESC) driving circuit module configured to control flight speed in response to an instruction from the SOC integrated chip. In the system, the SOC integrated chip and the power management chip are arranged on the primary circuit board, and the ESC driving circuit module is arranged on the secondary circuit board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2017
    Assignee: ZEROTECH (SHENZHEN) INTELLIGENCE ROBOT CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Jianjun Yang, Shijun Wu, Hao Wang, Jun Li, Yun Xie
  • Publication number: 20150137622
    Abstract: A control assembly includes a locking device having at least a first mode of operation and a second mode of operation, the locking device configurable to change from the first mode of operation to the second mode of operation. The locking device has a non-contact sensor and a microcontroller. An independent communicator is configured to communicate configuration data to the microcontroller. The microcontroller is configured to change from the first mode of operation to the second mode of operation using configuration data received from the independent communicator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2014
    Publication date: May 21, 2015
    Inventors: Wayne R. Foster, Prachi S. Kulkarni, Joshua Vavra, James Edward Dogul
  • Patent number: 8564158
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided that includes first, second and third switches, the first and second of which are in line between an appliance and terminals of the appliance that are connectable to a power source. The first switched is configured to open and close based on closing and opening of a door of the appliance, and the second switch is configured to open and close based on the mode of the appliance. Thus, the appliance may be connected to the power source when the first switch or the second switch is closed, and disconnected from the power source when both the first switch and the second switch are open. The third switch, which includes a sensor, is configured to control the second switch to close upon actuation in response to a detection proximate the appliance, where actuation of the third switch may cause the appliance to enter an operational mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Electrolux Home Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis A. Poyner, David C. Sumner, Kyle T. Perkinson, Troy A. Dalsing
  • Patent number: 8205101
    Abstract: A power supply for providing power to devices in a network is described as incorporating an integral coupling feature that terminates the provision of power from an upstream power supply while maintaining connectivity of communications signals and ground from an upstream portion to a downstream portion of the network relative to the power supply. The power supply includes a logic feature that monitors a power status of an upstream power supply and/or its own power status. When the logic feature detects a power cycle, it initiates a coordinated power cycle of the associated power supply and/or other networked power supplies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignee: Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: James Furukawa, Nicholas R. Goebel, Amy L. Stachowiak
  • Patent number: 8049585
    Abstract: A vehicle power system includes an electrical power source, an electrical bus, and a contactor electrically connected with the electrical power source and electrical bus. The contactor includes first and second poles, dual plungers each operatively associated with one of the first and second poles, and an electromagnetic coil configured to cause at least one of the dual plungers to move if the coil is energized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Philip Michael Gonzales, Benjamin A. Tabatowski-Bush
  • Patent number: 7999668
    Abstract: A system is provided for implementing a series interlock loop. An example of the interlock system includes a series interlock loop, a data table, and a control module. The series interlock loop has an overall electrical characteristic. The series interlock loop includes first and second safety interlocks electrically coupled in series. Each interlock includes a switch coupled in parallel with an impedance value. The data table is configured to store values corresponding to the impedance values. The control module is communicatively coupled to the data table and configured to receive an indication of the overall electrical characteristic and to compare the overall electrical characteristic to the values in the data table to thereby identify an open one of the first and second safety interlocks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: William R. Cawthorne, James E. Tarchinski
  • Publication number: 20100308666
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a safety shut-off device for an electric range. The device comprises a keyed lock for engaging the device and a relay for interrupting power across the power feed lines.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2009
    Publication date: December 9, 2010
    Inventor: Myron Todd Raby
  • Patent number: 7786624
    Abstract: A power control device prevents unauthorized and unwanted use of electrical devices by locking the plug of the electrical device in the power control device, when the current flowing through the power control device is stopped. The device includes a switch, moveable between on and off conditions by moving a slide lock or bolt, typically by rotating a key in a locking structure. When the slide lock has moved into contact with the switch, such that it is in an off-condition and current is not flowing through the power control device, the slide lock has also locked the plug in the power control device. The electrical device is temporarily inoperable and can not resume normal operation until the power control device is unlocked.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Inventor: Norman C. Haas
  • Patent number: 7740485
    Abstract: An apparatus, when in use, is connected to standby electrical power through a power cord. The apparatus controls the electrical power source to a transportation vehicle with an electrical control device. The electrical control device is energized by a switch. The switch is operated by attaching the transportation vehicle power cord by means of compression via two nylon ties. When tension is present on the transportation vehicle power cord the nylon ties will break. When the nylon ties break, the switch immediately de-energizes the electrical control device and the transportation vehicle power cord. If the transportation vehicle continues to pull on the transportation vehicle power cord, it will be in the de-energized mode. The transportation vehicle power cord will be pulled away from the apparatus and away from the electrical connections through a water tight grip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Inventor: Russell J Edwards, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20090189462
    Abstract: A power control device prevents unauthorized and unwanted use of electrical devices by locking the plug of the electrical device in the power control device, when the current flowing through the power control device is stopped. The device includes a switch, moveable between on and off conditions by moving a slide lock or bolt, typically by rotating a key in a locking structure. When the slide lock has moved into contact with the switch, such that it is in an off-condition and current is not flowing through the power control device, the slide lock has also locked the plug in the power control device. The electrical device is temporarily inoperable and can not resume normal operation until the power control device is unlocked.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2009
    Publication date: July 30, 2009
    Inventor: Norman C. Haas
  • Patent number: 7391134
    Abstract: An improved electrical lockout mechanism includes a first connection means to a power source, and a second connection means to the power input terminal of the machine being protected. The machine being protected includes a manually-operated ON/OFF switch. A switching element is operably coupled between the first and second connection means. The switching element is adapted to selectively complete and break an electrical circuit between the first and second connection means in response to a control signal supplied thereto. A control circuit generates a control signal that is supplied to the switching element thereby causing the switching element to complete the electrical circuit between the first and second connection means under a first set of operating conditions and causing the switching element to break the electrical circuit between the first and second connection means under a second set of operating conditions in a manner that prevents unwanted machine restarts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Assignee: SafeStart Systems, LLC
    Inventor: Thomas E. Feil
  • Patent number: 7075195
    Abstract: An improved electrical lockout mechanism includes a first connection means to a power source, and a second connection means to a power input terminal of the machine being protected. The machine includes a manually-operated ON/OFF switch. A switching element, which is coupled between the first and second connection means, selectively completes and breaks an electrical circuit between the first and second connection means in response to a control signal supplied thereto. A control circuit generates this control signal in a manner that prevents unwanted machine restarts. The switching element may be realized by an electromagnetic relay device, or by a thyristor-based switching device such as a triac device. The electrical lockout mechanism can be integrated with a power cord that delivers electrical power to a machine, or can be integrated into the machine itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Assignee: Safestart System, LLC
    Inventor: Thomas E. Feil
  • Patent number: 7071819
    Abstract: A remote control lock operation system for a vehicle capable of unlocking a mechanical locking mechanism for mechanically disabling traveling of the vehicle by a infrared signal, without using the key. Components of the system include a handheld remote control transmitter, a receiver, a mechanical locking mechanism, a lock actuator and control unit, and wiring sections for connecting the lock actuator and the receiver to the control unit mounted in a common module housing contained on the vehicle body. The main components of the system, including the wiring section leading to the lock actuator, are unitized and integrate into the common module housing in order to prevent unauthorized unlocking of the lock. Also provided is a mobile communication terminal having an infrared transmitting port, and a method for using of the terminal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2006
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Takeshi Konno, Masayoshi Orita, Atsuo Ota
  • Patent number: 6462431
    Abstract: A remote locking release device in a bicycle wheel locking apparatus, including: a remote controller; a light signal receiving unit for generating a locking release signal by a locking release requirement signal received from the remote controller; a position detecting unit for detecting the present position of a locking bar and generating a locking state signal; a controller for generating a relay control signal by the locking release signal and the locking state signal; a relay driving unit for supplying a relay driving voltage by the relay control signal; and a relay for releasing the locking state by the locking bar with falling down a stopper by the delay driving voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2002
    Inventor: Leeki Woo
  • Patent number: 6232676
    Abstract: Disclosed is structure and method for supplying and cutting off power to a removable card component of an electrical device, without interfering with supply of power to other components of the device (including other card components), so that the single card component can be serviced (removed/replaced/added) without interfering with supply of electrical power to other components of the electrical device. The structure includes a slider member on the frame of the device, which slides on the frame between first and second positions on the frame, and a switch actuated by the slider member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2001
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventors: Kazimierz L. Kozyra, Parviz P. Rahmany
  • Patent number: 5886426
    Abstract: A power switch locking device for controlling the on/off function of a soft touch type power switch is disclosed. In general, the output of the power switch is provided to an input of a microcontroller that switches on/off the main power switch or relay of the microcontroller in response to the signal level provided by the power switch. The power switch locking device of the invention cooperates with a function switch or key specified in the electrical appliance to control the on/off function of the power switch. Also, the function switch is of the soft touch type producing a momentary switch-on output signal when the switch is pressed. A switching control circuit is provided for receiving the output signals from the power switch and function switch, and for producing a control output signal capable of inverting its logical level state whenever the same level output signals from the power switch and function switch are inputted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1999
    Assignee: SamSung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kwan-Wook Kim
  • Patent number: 5734206
    Abstract: A security electrical power interrupt apparatus prevents usage of an electrical appliance such as an electric stove, or other electrically operated device. The apparatus includes a relay controlled by a micro-processor based programmable controller. The device includes a detachable component through which data is input. Data is input to the detachable component through a key pad. A software computer program operates in the controller and causes the relay to disconnect the supply power from the device if any attempt is made to operate the appliance or device in a manner which draws electrical current exceeding a preset limit while the controller is in an interrupt mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1998
    Assignee: Boss Control Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel James Keizer, Steven A. Lax, Robert K. Muylwyk
  • Patent number: 5691874
    Abstract: When the user depresses a soft key SW in an on-state of a door switch DSW in which a door is closed, a transistor Tr1 is turned on, a transistor Tr4 is turned on, a relay RL1 is turned on, and an AC power source is supplied to an image forming apparatus. When a jam occurs, a CPU 2 turns on a transistor Tr5 for a predetermined time and a latching relay RL2 is driven to the holding side. When the door is opened for a jam process, the door switch DSW is opened and the AC power drops. When the door is closed after the jam process, the door switch DSW is closed. In this instance, since the latching relay RL2 is in a holding state, the AC power is again supplied in a manner similar to the case where the soft key SW is depressed. When the jam cancellation is confirmed, the holding of the latching relay RL2 is cancelled and the ordinary operation is started.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 25, 1997
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Kazuki Miyamoto, Naoyuki Ohki, Takahiro Ushiro, Teruo Mitsui, Atsushi Chaki
  • Patent number: 5592032
    Abstract: A security electrical interrupt device for preventing unauthorized usage of an electrical appliance such as an electric stove, while retaining operation of auxiliary electrical equipment such as the lights and an electrical clock. The device comprises a relay controlled by a micro-processor based programmable controller which measures the amount of electrical supply current being drawn by the appliance. A software computer program stored in the microcontroller commands the relay to disconnect the supply power if any person attempts to operate any part of the appliance which draws electrical current exceeding a preset limit while the controller is in the interrupt mode. In a preferred embodiment the microcontroller is programmed to enter the interrupt mode by 1) key sequences entered on a detachable key pad, 2) when a selected amount of time has elapsed since the last authorized usage, or 3) by removal of the detachable key pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 7, 1997
    Assignees: Daniel J. Keizer, Steven A. Lax
    Inventors: Daniel J. Keizer, Steven A. Lax, Robert K. Muylwyk
  • Patent number: 5554895
    Abstract: A switch circuit for activating and deactivating a motor vehicle cruise control includes a 555 model timer integrated circuit which has a trigger terminal, a reset terminal, a threshold terminal, a control voltage terminal and an output terminal. A substantially constant voltage is applied to the threshold terminal. A first normally-open switch connected between the vehicle ground and the trigger terminal, and a second normally-open switch connected between vehicle ground and the reset terminal. Separate pull-up resistors connect the trigger and reset terminals of the timer to a positive voltage source and a capacitor couples the control voltage terminal to vehicle ground. A relay has a coil connected between the output terminal and vehicle ground, and has a switch that is connected between the common terminal and the ON control terminal of the cruise control. The 555 timer is configured as a latching circuit having an output which toggles in response to operation of the two normally-open switches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 10, 1996
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Michael E. Ross, Mark G. C. Robinson
  • Patent number: 5530230
    Abstract: A new variable password safety interlock system for microwave ovens and other computerized or electrical appliance allows the user to dynamically and automatically generate a new password immediately prior to each use. The variable password comprises some prearranged transposition or combination of numbers of digits that were already entered into the microwave control panel by the user. The user first enters digits representing the microwave time, the target food temperature, the microwave power level, the actual time of day on display or some other required combination of digits or microwave console buttons, and then presses the "Start" button. The new value of the variable password for that use of the microwave will be some prearranged transposition or combination of the digits, numbers or buttons that had just previously been pressed by the user and that appeared on the microwave control panel at the moment the user pressed the "Start" button.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 25, 1996
    Inventors: Andrew M. Smith, James P. Smith
  • Patent number: 5506455
    Abstract: An electrical appliance comprises a power supply cable (70) having a first conductor (200) surrounded by a second conductor (210) for supplying electrical power to the appliance from a domestic electricity mains supply, and a connector (490) connected to cable for detachably connecting the conductors of the cable to first and second voltage signals of the electricity mains supply. In operation, the second conductor (210) is connected to the lower of the voltage signals. The second conductor (210) thus acts as a shield in opposition to electric fields radiating from the cable. The shield improves in efficiency as the lower mains voltage signal approaches Ground potential.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 9, 1996
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Peter Beanlands, John S. Beeteson, David Sawdon, Ken G. Smith
  • Patent number: 5432387
    Abstract: A switching means is provided in a power source line for supplying the A.C. power source of a main power source circuit. A lock switch is separately provided. In the normal state, the lock switch is in a locked off state, thereby controlling the on-off operation of the switching means by the automatic on-off function based on a power source operating switch and timer etc. By turning the lock switch off, the switching means is locked, thereby overriding the automatic on-off function and the power source operating switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 11, 1995
    Assignee: Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazuya Kogure, Kazuya Akiyama, Yoshitaka Ikeda, Masakazu Kuribara
  • Patent number: 5418404
    Abstract: In a data processing device, when exchanging a plug-in package with another without breaking the power to be supplied to the data processing device, a package removing lever is equipped with a locking piece. The lever does not move and the package hence cannot be removed, until the locking piece is released. In response to the release operation of the locking piece, a switch is activated to break off the power supply for the package. After the package is mounted perfectly, the power for the package is switched on by the action of the locking piece, thus preventing any misoperation when removing the package.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 23, 1995
    Assignees: Hitachi, Ltd., Hitachi Process Computer Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: Manabu Araoka, Yoshiaki Takahashi, Atsushi Shikama, Yoshihiro Miyazaki, Tomoaki Nakamura, Masayuki Sakata
  • Patent number: 5272385
    Abstract: An electronic device comprising a light sensor, a plurality of inputs and outputs, and an integrated circuit provides discrimination from logic input detection signals to generate output signals. The input detection signals are received from slotted opto-interrupter devices installed at a door and a lid of a hopper and also from a light sensor. Electric locks responsive to the output signals are installed at the door and the lid while an electronic relay is installed at a light switch and power socket. The device will not allow the hopper's lid to be opened if the room's door is open and/or the room's light is turned on. When the hopper's lid is opened the door automatically locks and electric power to the light switch and power socket is interrupted. When the hopper's lid is open and the light switch is turned to the ON position, the light will not turn ON until the hopper's lid is closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1993
    Inventor: Humberto A. Cravero
  • Patent number: 5231310
    Abstract: An electronic appliance lock can be used on televisions and other appliances for which use control is sought. In one embodiment, the lock sits atop a television set or is manufactured integrally with the television. In another embodiment the lock is made to plug directly into an electrical socket. Input and output are done by either keys and a display on the lock itself, or by using a remote control device and using the television screen as a display. The lock is capable of limiting use of the controlled appliance to either a fixed number of hours per preset allotment period, as well as blocking use during specified periods of time. In some embodiments access to one or more channels is regulated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1993
    Inventor: Soo-Young Oh
  • Patent number: 5196731
    Abstract: A power on/off circuit with a lock function includes a momentary type main switch connected to ground, a two-circuit two-contact lock switch coupled to, a switching state holding circuit, a load and a power supply. One of the switching circuits in the lock switch is connected between the main switch and the input terminal (CK) of the switching state holding circuit. The other switching circuit in the lock switch is connected between the main switch and the reset terminal (CLR) of the switching state holding circuit. The switching state of the main switch is held by the switching state holding circuit, and the state is maintained unless a reset signal is applied to the switching state holding circuit. The lock switch only functions to generate the reset signal so that the lock switch does not cut off the supply of current to the load as in a conventional shaver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1993
    Assignee: U.S. Philips Corporation
    Inventors: Katsumi Abe, Akinori Takie
  • Patent number: 5191231
    Abstract: The present invention provides an improved timer device for programming pre-selected time periods during which an electrical appliance can be actuated or de-actuated at the selection of the user, or during which the appliance is in a non-operational state. The timer device is particularly adapted for use in conjunction with a television set for providing time periods during which children or other persons may view television at their option, and other time periods during which power to the television is cut-off and the television cannot be viewed. The timer includes a back-up power supply, particularly a battery pack, for maintaining the timer in its operational condition in the event that line power to the electrical appliance is interrupted or otherwise disrupted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1993
    Inventor: Woodrow Berry
  • Patent number: 5126643
    Abstract: A control system for an electric-motor-driven power tool, comprising solenoid operated switching contacts in a mains supply circuit for controlling the supply of mains current to the motor, a latching circuit for normally holding said switching contacts closed during normal operation, a stop switch for breaking the latching circuit to open said switching contacts when it is desired to stop the motor in normal operation, and a reed relay having switching contacts disposed in the latching circuit and a coil disposed in the mains supply circuit to the motor. The reed relay is arranged to break the latching circuit automatically, and thereby disable the motor, if the current supply to the motor exceeds a predetermined level. A movement detection device is adapted to trigger the latching circuit to open the solenoid operated switching contacts in the event of the control system being physically moved in operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1992
    Assignee: Rotabroach Limited
    Inventor: Edward M. French
  • Patent number: 4820934
    Abstract: A control circuit for dispensing detergent and a wetting agent in a dishwasher is provided in which a single triac can be utilized to selectively energize either the detergent dispenser operator or the wetting agent dispenser operator by connecting the two operators, each in series with an oppositely oriented diode, in parallel, and such connection in series with the triac, and then biasing the triac into low impedance at the beginning of either positive or negative half line cycle depending on the operator selected to be energized. If an operator is of low resistance, it is connected in series with the heater which then acts as a current limiter, and if the operator is of high impedance, it is connected in parallel with the heater.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1987
    Date of Patent: April 11, 1989
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Roque Denis Marcade, Daniel S. Query
  • Patent number: 4727263
    Abstract: In an electromotive control device having an end disconnect switch, two circular conductive paths are arranged on an insulating support, at least one of said paths being less than an entire circle. Wiper contacts which connect the conductive paths are electrically connected to each other and are connected to a wheel which is driven by a motor, the wheel being mounted coaxially to the conductive paths. The limit disconnect switch and thus a setting element can be manufactured at low cost by the invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1986
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1988
    Assignee: VDO Adolf Schindling AG
    Inventor: Roland Sudler
  • Patent number: 4714976
    Abstract: A remotely controlled circuit breaker or switch comprises two breaking poles adjoining a remote control unit with an electromagnet, and a toggle for manual operation of the contacts. The remote control unit comprises a selector switch for switching into the electronic circuit a position detector of breaker contacts, four connection terminals, and an electronic power supply circuit for an electromagnet. Two of the input terminals TL (inpulse relay mode) and CT (contactor mode in the active position of the selector switch), are accessible simultaneously with the existence of a priority code between the two controls and of a refresh function of the statuses of the electronic circuit. The latter allows forced manual operation by means of the toggle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1986
    Date of Patent: December 22, 1987
    Assignee: Merlin Gerin
    Inventors: Bernard Pin, Andre Delbosse, Ivan Dubreucq
  • Patent number: 4710841
    Abstract: Protection of induction motors and generators is provided to allow rapid reclosure of the power supply or fast transfer from one power supply to an alternate supply. A switching sequence is disclosed in which motor stator windings are short circuited immediately following interruption of the supply voltage. Said short circuit quickly discharges to a safe value the energy stored in the rotor of the induction machine, allowing the short circuit to be removed and safe reconnection to the power supply to be accomplished without further delay.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1985
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1987
    Inventor: Gerald W. Bottrell
  • Patent number: 4689492
    Abstract: A switching circuit for turning on and off an electronic instrument, an electric lamp, or other electrically powered electric or electronic circuits, by means of a single switch, and which is constructed so that when the switch is closed momentarily and opened, the switching circuit remains "on" until the switch is again momentarily operated. However, when the switch is closed for a longer time interval, the switching circuit remains "on" for so long as the switch is closed and turns "off" when the switch is opened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 1986
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1987
    Inventor: Donald D. Peteuil
  • Patent number: 4611204
    Abstract: This invention is a cost efficient network arrangement for a space switching network for high voltage applications. This arrangement minimizes the number of control signal leads for a multistage switching network. If a switching network has N stages, then the present invention provides for performing the space switching operation with N+1 control signal leads. The present space switch arrangement may also be employed for conventional non-high voltage space switching applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1984
    Date of Patent: September 9, 1986
    Assignee: GTE Communication Systems Corporation
    Inventor: Johannes Draayer
  • Patent number: 4603370
    Abstract: A power-saving relay circuit for reducing power consumption from a power supply comprises a relay including a selectively energizable relay coil, a plurality of movable contactors, and a plurality of fixed contacts including first and second fixed contacts associated with each of the movable contactors. Each of the movable contactors is normally in electrical contact with the first fixed contact and responsive to energization of the relay coil for breaking the electrical contact with the first fixed contact and for making electrical contact with the second fixed contact. A current limiting circuit is coupled in electrical series circuit intermediate a selected one of the second fixed contacts and the relay coil. The movable contactor associated with the selected one of the second fixed contacts is capable of being coupled in circuit with the power supply for completing an electrical circuit through the current limiting circuit for energizing the relay coil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 1984
    Date of Patent: July 29, 1986
    Assignee: General Research of Electronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Kazuyoshi Imazeki, Nobuaki Yokoyama
  • Patent number: 4602165
    Abstract: An automatic electric switch assembly with associated timers re-synchronizes a time clock with real time after a power interruption.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1985
    Date of Patent: July 22, 1986
    Inventor: Richard W. Rosenberg
  • Patent number: 4570109
    Abstract: An irradiation device including a series arrangement of an ultraviolet radiation source (5), a first switch (3) and a second switch (4). Under normal conditions the radiation source (5) is switched on and off by the first switch (3). The second switch (4) is operative only if the first switch (3) fails. By means of a simple circuit (7, 20, 17, 6; R), the defective device cannot be switched on again.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1984
    Date of Patent: February 11, 1986
    Assignee: U.S. Philips Corporation
    Inventors: Haayo Nicolai, Hendricus J. Duipmans
  • Patent number: 4559456
    Abstract: A portable type electric appliance powered by incorporated main and reserve batteries. The batteries are connected to an electric load selectively by means of a switching device including a main switch for connecting the main battery to the load and a subsidiary switch for connecting the reserve battery to the load. A lock locks the subsidiary switch in a disconnected position until the main switch is closed. Namely, the subsidiary switch can be closed only after the main switch is closed. Therefore, the main battery is always used prior to the reserve battery, and when the main battery is exhausted, the reserve battery remaining unexhausted is capable of taking over to operate the appliance without requiring immediate replacement of the main battery. Accordingly, the accidental interruption of the operation of the appliance can be avoided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1984
    Date of Patent: December 17, 1985
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Works, Ltd.
    Inventors: Shigeo Yamamoto, Makoto Tanimizu, Kenzo Shirakawa, Hideji Wataya
  • Patent number: 4539453
    Abstract: A control circuit for a microwave oven with a mechanical switch locking assembly, wherein a cooking start switch is available to turn on after closing a door and is turned off when the door is opened. The control circuit includes a relay for connecting a power source to energize a magnetron, and control means for controlling the relay. The control means enables the relay to connect the power source with the magnetron when the cooking start switch is turned on after connecting the control means with the power source. If the cooking start switch is already turned on prior to connecting the microwave oven to the power source, the operator must first open the microwave oven door, thus opening the start switch, and subsequently closing the door and closing the start switch. This safety procedure encourages the operator to insure that food products are placed in the oven, thus reducing the danger of operating the oven without a load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1984
    Date of Patent: September 3, 1985
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventors: Koichi Miyazaki, Masayuki Aoki
  • Patent number: 4507703
    Abstract: An arrangement for generating in each switching panel of a multipanel switching facility of an electrical power distribution network a digital operating-state image derived from command inputs and switching position signals. The digital operating state image is transmitted to a collecting memory arranged in a coupling panel which produces an overall image of all switching panels; which overall image is transmitted to the individual switching panels at periodic time intervals. A checking procedure is then conducted in the individual switching panels using the overall image. The arrangement utilizes microprocessors which are coupled to one another so as to exchange data via several transmission paths which are one-bit wide. This arrangement obviates the need for an interlock cable harness in the switching panels and cross-cabling between the switching panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1983
    Date of Patent: March 26, 1985
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Heinrich Blau, Bernd Gortz, Werner Grohmann, Wolfgang Meusel, Heribert Niebergall, Hermann Waldmann
  • Patent number: 4418289
    Abstract: A two stage positive shift starter drive system for an internal combustion engine is disclosed. A pair of electrical switches are sequentially actuated by an actuator solenoid engaging the starter drive's pinion gear with the engine's ring gear. The first switch actuated after a predetermined displacement of the solenoid's armature applies electrical power to the cranking motor through a resistance connected in series with the cranking motor and connected in parallel with the solenoid pull-in coil. The resistance reduces the electrical power applied to the cranking motor and the potential across the solenoid pull-in coil thereby reducing the rotational speed and the engagement force applied to the pinion gear. The end of the armature travel closes the second switch applying full power to the cranking motor permitting normal cranking of the engine with the pinion gear fully engaged with the ring gear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1981
    Date of Patent: November 29, 1983
    Assignee: Facet Enterprises, Incorporated
    Inventor: Harold R. Mortensen
  • Patent number: 4401958
    Abstract: Apparatus is disclosed for controlling the operation of electrically operated equipment, such as power tools and the like. The apparatus includes circuit connectors, including first and second spaced terminals, in which the first terminal is connected to a source of electricity and the second terminal is connected to the equipment itself so that electricity can be supplied to the equipment by electrically connecting the spaced terminals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 1981
    Date of Patent: August 30, 1983
    Inventor: Kenneth C. Noorigian