Miscellaneous Systems Patents (Class 307/149)
  • Publication number: 20150084438
    Abstract: New wireless power transmission techniques are disclosed. In some aspects of the invention, an ambient wave or field is used as a scaffold for building new, superposed waveforms, using an additional, intermediate transmitter or resonator. In other aspects of the invention, devices incorporating such intermediate transmitters or resonators are awarded monetary credit and offsets by a management system, according to their contribution to power transmission to a power-receiving device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2014
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Inventor: Chris Beckman
  • Patent number: 8981600
    Abstract: A low-loss data transmission method used in a high-power induction-type power supply system consisting of a supplying-end module and a receiving-end module is disclosed. The supplying-end microprocessor of the supplying-end module has built-in anti-noise signal analysis software that can remove noises from the data signal fed back by the receiving-end module, assuring high stability of the transmission of data signal and reducing energy dissipation of data transmission. Subject to a special circuit arrangement of the receiving-end coil of the receiving-end module, signal modulation is performed on a low voltage DC square wave, assuring a high level of stability of the supplying of power supply to the receiving-end module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Fu Da Tong Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Ming-Chiu Tsai, Chi-Che Chan
  • Patent number: 8975790
    Abstract: A power supply system with a filter with at least a first and second connector, wherein the first connector is connected to a power source and the second connector is connected to a power supply. A power supply system with a first filter with at least a first and second connector, a second filter with at least a third and fourth connector, wherein the first connector is connected to a power source, wherein the first filter is connected to the second filter, and the fourth connector is connected to a power supply. A filter with a housing, a male connector, and a female connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Assignee: AFL Telecommunications LLC
    Inventors: Chris Donaldson, David Halverson
  • Patent number: 8970070
    Abstract: A wireless power transmission unit according to the present invention transmits power wirelessly from a power transmitting section 100 to a power receiving section 200 through a resonant magnetic field. The unit includes: the power transmitting section 100, which resonates at a resonant frequency f0; at least one relay section 300, which can resonate at a frequency that is selected from multiple frequencies including the resonant frequency f0; and a resonance control section 600 that outputs information that specifies a resonance condition to be imposed on the relay section 300 according to the arrangement of the power receiving section 200 and that makes the relay section 300 resonate on the resonance condition that has been specified in accordance with that information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Panasonic Intellectual Property Management Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tomokazu Sada, Hiroshi Kanno
  • Patent number: 8961295
    Abstract: Systems and methods provide power management on a wagering game machine. Inrush power may be reduced by staggering application of power to various power supplies in a wagering game machine. A processor or timer may control the activation of power supplies. Further power management may be provided by placing wagering game machine peripherals in a power consumption mode appropriate to the activity or lack of activity on a wagering game machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: WMS Gaming Inc.
    Inventors: Charles R. Bleich, Michael J. Sosnoski
  • Publication number: 20150048692
    Abstract: A resonance device includes a waveguide, a dielectric resonator disposed coaxial with the waveguide, an excitation structure thereof. One end of the waveguide is open and the other is short-circuited. The dielectric resonator has two end surfaces disposed on opposite sides to each other, is insulated from the waveguide in the vicinity of the open end of the waveguide, and is disposed within the waveguide, such that a thickness being a distance between the two end surfaces is constant, regardless of a radial position of the dielectric resonator. In a power transmission apparatus, the two resonance devices are provided. The open end of the waveguide of one resonance device and the open end of the waveguide of the other resonance device are disposed opposite each other. Power, which is input to an excitation structure of one resonance device, is output from an excitation structure of the other resonance device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2013
    Publication date: February 19, 2015
    Inventors: Yoshiaki Fujiyama, Nobuhiro Harada
  • Patent number: 8946938
    Abstract: A vehicle powering wireless receiver for use with a first electromagnetic resonator coupled to a power supply. The wireless receiver including a load configured to power the drive system of a vehicle using electrical power, a second electromagnetic resonator adapted to be housed upon the vehicle and configured to be coupled to the load, a safety system for to provide protection with respect to an object that may become hot during operation of the first electromagnetic resonator. The safety system including a detection subsystem configured to detect the presence of the object in substantial proximity to at least one of the resonators, and a notification subsystem operatively coupled to the detection subsystem and configured to provide an indication of the object, wherein the second resonator is configured to be wirelessly coupled to the first resonator to provide resonant, non-radiative wireless power to the second resonator from the first resonator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: WiTricity Corporation
    Inventors: Morris P. Kesler, Konrad Kulikowski, Herbert Toby Lou, Katherine L. Hall, Ron Fiorello, Simon Verghese, Andre B. Kurs, Aristeidis Karalis, Andrew J. Campanella
  • Publication number: 20150028694
    Abstract: The present disclosure may provide various electric transmitter arrangements which may be used to provide wireless power transmission (WPT) while using suitable WPT techniques such as pocket-forming. In some embodiments, transmitters may include one or more antennas connected to at least one radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC) and one microcontroller. Transmitters may include communications components which may allow for communication to various electronic equipment including phones, computers and others. Transmitters for wireless power transmission may be feed by a power source, which may have suitable connection with transmitters through several power couplings, including screw caps for light sockets, cables, power plugs among others. Power couplings may depend on final application and user preferences.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2013
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Applicant: DvineWave Inc.
    Inventors: Michael A. Leabman, Gregory Scott Brewer
  • Patent number: 8941507
    Abstract: An flight-safe indicator for a battery displays the flight-safety state of a battery to be transported by an aircraft. The indicator can be easily recognized by ground personnel anywhere regardless of the language they speak or read. The indicator comprises an icon indicating that the battery is safe for flight and would be easily recognized by personnel at an airport. The icon would be placed on the battery or on the battery packaging prior to loading on the aircraft. When the magnitude of power stored on the battery exceeds a safety threshold, the icon changes to an indication that the battery is not safe for transporting by aircraft and the operator may discharge the battery using a load until it reaches a safe level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: Panacis Inc.
    Inventor: Steve Carkner
  • Publication number: 20150024685
    Abstract: A power transmission system and power transmitter device that suppress degradation of communication quality in data communication even when the data communication and power transmission are performed concurrently. One end portion of a first communication unit of a power transmitter device is connected to a first communication coupling electrode, and one end portion of a second communication unit of a power receiver device is connected to a second communication coupling electrode that forms capacitive coupling with the first communication coupling electrode. The other end portion of the first communication unit is connected to a reference potential electrode of the power transmitter device, and the other end portion of the second communication unit is connected to a reference potential electrode of the power receiver device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2014
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Inventors: Shinji Goma, Tsutomu leki
  • Patent number: 8933594
    Abstract: A vehicle powering wireless receiver for use with a first electromagnetic resonator coupled to a power supply. The wireless receiver includes a load configured to power the drive system of a vehicle using electrical power, and a second electromagnetic resonator adapted to be housed upon the vehicle and configured to be coupled to the load, wherein the second electromagnetic resonator is configured to be wirelessly coupled to the first electromagnetic resonator to provide resonant, non-radiative wireless power to the second electromagnetic resonator from the first electromagnetic resonator; and wherein the field of at least one of the first electromagnetic resonator and the second electromagnetic resonator is shaped using a conducting surface to avoid a loss-inducing object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Assignee: WiTricity Corporation
    Inventors: Andre B. Kurs, Aristeidis Karalis, Marin Soljacic, Katherine L. Hall, Morris P. Kesler, Andrew J. Campanella
  • Publication number: 20150008767
    Abstract: Provided is an insulated transmission medium which transmits electromagnetic energy between circuits having different reference potentials and has high insulation reliability. In order to realize the insulated transmission medium with a low loss, a small size, and a low cost, the insulated transmission medium according to the present invention is an insulated transmission medium which transmits the electromagnetic energy between a first circuit having a first reference potential and a second circuit having a second reference potential.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2012
    Publication date: January 8, 2015
    Inventors: Hiroshi Shinoda, Takahide Terada, Kazunori Hara
  • Publication number: 20150001967
    Abstract: A power feeding unit includes: an electrode array including a plurality of power feeding electrodes arranged side by side; a power feeding section configured to supply power to a power receiving unit via the electrode array; and a setting section configured to set a power feeding condition for each of the power feeding electrodes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2014
    Publication date: January 1, 2015
    Inventors: Takayuki Hirabayashi, Masakazu Yajima, Kiminobu Ichimura
  • Publication number: 20150002080
    Abstract: A wireless power transmission system includes a first power transmitter configured to transmit a first electromagnetic field, a first power receiver configured to generate electrical energy using the first transmitted electromagnetic field, a first occupancy sensor configured to indicate a first presence of a first individual within a first sensed area, and a control unit configured to control the first power transmitter based upon the indicated first presence.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2014
    Publication date: January 1, 2015
    Inventor: Christoph Lang
  • Publication number: 20150001966
    Abstract: An energy collection system may collect and use the energy generated by an electric field. Collection fibers are suspended from a support structure, which may comprise a support pole, a vehicle, a lunar rover, and a windmill, among other structures. The collection fibers may be made of any conducting material, including carbon, graphite, graphene, silicene, and/or other like materials. Diodes may be used to restrict the backflow or loss of energy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2013
    Publication date: January 1, 2015
    Inventor: Clint McCowen
  • Patent number: 8922053
    Abstract: A semiconductor chip includes: a data output buffer that outputs a data signal; a first power-supply pad that supplies a first power-supply potential to the data output buffer; a power-supply wiring that is connected to the first power-supply pad; a strobe output buffer that outputs a strobe signal; and a second power-supply pad that supplies a second power-supply potential to the strobe output buffer. The power-supply wiring and the second power-supply pad are electrically independent of each other. Therefore, the power-supply noise associated with the switching of the data output buffer does not spread to the strobe output buffer. Thus, it is possible to improve the quality of the strobe signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: PS4 Luxco S.A.R.L.
    Inventors: Hiromasa Takeda, Hiroki Fujisawa
  • Patent number: 8922066
    Abstract: A vehicle powering wireless receiver for use with a first electromagnetic resonator coupled to a power supply. The wireless receiver includes a load configured to power the drive system of a vehicle using electrical power, and a second electromagnetic resonator adapted to be housed upon the vehicle and configured to be coupled to the load, at least one other electromagnetic resonator configured with the first electromagnetic resonator and the second electromagnetic resonator in an array of electromagnetic resonators to distribute power over an area, wherein the second electromagnetic resonator is configured to be wirelessly coupled to the array to provide resonant, non-radiative wireless power to the second electromagnetic resonator from the first electromagnetic resonator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: WiTricity Corporation
    Inventors: Morris P. Kesler, Katherine L. Hall, Ron Fiorello, Michael Alan Feldstein, Volkan Efe, Konrad Kulikowski, Andre B. Kurs
  • Publication number: 20140375251
    Abstract: A power transmission device wirelessly transmits power to a power receiving device rectifying a voltage received and supplying the voltage to a load circuit. The power transmission device includes a power transmitter that makes capacitance or electromagnetic coupling to the power receiver and transmits electric power to the power receiver, a power supply unit that generates electric power to be transmitted to the power receiving device and supplies the electric power to the power transmitter, a load impedance detector that detects a load impedance of the power receiving device based on an electric signal detected in the power transmission device, and a controller that controls the electric power to be generated by the power supply unit such that an output voltage of the rectifying circuit of the power receiving device is equal to or lower than a predetermined voltage based on a detection result of the load impedance detector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2014
    Publication date: December 25, 2014
    Inventors: HIRONORI SAKAI, Takanori Tsuchiya
  • Publication number: 20140361639
    Abstract: An electric power receiving apparatus of an electric power transmitting system includes an overvoltage suppressing unit connected in parallel to a resonant circuit. The overvoltage suppressing unit is formed by an impedance element. Impedance of the impedance element is set to such a value that a rise in a voltage across at least one pair of electric power receiving electrodes is suppressed as compared to a case in which the impedance element is not connected, in the process in which coupling capacitance Cm between electric power transmitting electrodes and the electric power receiving electrodes changes from a value held while the electric power transmitting electrodes and the electric power receiving electrodes are in a predetermined positional relationship during normal electric power transmission to substantially zero.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2014
    Publication date: December 11, 2014
    Inventors: Keiichi Ichikawa, Hironobu Takahashi
  • Patent number: 8907531
    Abstract: A medical device-powering wireless receiver for use with a first electromagnetic resonator coupled to a power supply. The wireless receiver includes a load configured to power an implantable medical device using electrical power, and a second electromagnetic resonator adapted to be housed within the medical device and configured to be coupled to the load, wherein the second electromagnetic resonator is configured to be wirelessly coupled to the first electromagnetic resonator to provide resonant, non-radiative wireless power to the second electromagnetic resonator from the first electromagnetic resonator, the area circumscribed by the inductive element of at least one of the electromagnetic resonators can be varied to improve performance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: WiTricity Corporation
    Inventors: Katherine L. Hall, Volkan Efe, Morris P. Kesler, Andrew J. Campanella, Aristeidis Karalis, Andre B. Kurs, Marin Soljacic, Konrad Kulikowski
  • Publication number: 20140354084
    Abstract: An active electrode and a passive electrode provided in a power transmitting apparatus 10 are connected to an inductor provided on the secondary side of a transformer generating an AC voltage and are respectively coupled to an active electrode and a passive electrode of a power receiving apparatus through electric fields. A ground electrode of the power transmitting apparatus faces the active electrode and the passive electrode and a ground electrode of the power receiving apparatus faces the active electrode and the passive electrode. A plurality of openings are formed in such a manner as to form a lattice in each of the ground electrodes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2014
    Publication date: December 4, 2014
    Inventors: Hironobu Takahashi, Tsutomu Ieki
  • Publication number: 20140339923
    Abstract: A wireless power receiver configured to control an electrical connection between a capture resonator of a wireless power transfer system and an electrical load, such as a battery pack or electric motor. The circuitry of the wireless power receiver is powered directly by the power output from the capture resonator, automatically powering up the wireless power receiver as soon as the capture resonator begins producing power. The wireless power receiver 16 does not require stand-by power provided by an external source, such as a vehicle battery. Since the wireless power receiver does not require power from an external source, it can initiate charging of a vehicle battery even if the state of charge of the battery in the vehicle is too low to operate the controller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2013
    Publication date: November 20, 2014
    Inventors: GEORGE N. SIMOPOULOS, JEFFREY A. ELY
  • Publication number: 20140341591
    Abstract: The present disclosure describes an optically powered transducer with a photovoltaic collector. An optical fiber power delivery method and system and a free space power delivery method are also provided. A fabrication process for making an optically powered transducer is further described, together with an implantable transducer system based on optical power delivery.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2014
    Publication date: November 20, 2014
    Inventors: Axel SCHERER, Aditya RAJAGOPAL, Seheon KIM, Andrew P. HOMYK
  • Patent number: 8890366
    Abstract: A system for exchanging energy wirelessly comprises an array of at least three objects having a resonant frequency, each object is electromagnetic (EM) and non-radiative, and generates an EM near-field in response to receiving the energy, wherein each object in the array is arranged at a distance from all other objects in the array, such that upon receiving the energy the object is strongly coupled to at least one other object in the array via a resonant coupling of evanescent waves; and an energy driver for providing the energy at the resonant frequency to at least one object in the array, such that, during an operation of the system, the energy is distributed from the object to all other objects in the array.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric Research Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventors: Bingnan Wang, Koon Hoo Teo, Da Huang
  • Publication number: 20140319933
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for transmission of charged particles along a laser-induced conduction path of concentric plasma channels in atmosphere. The apparatus comprises a high power laser array in operable communication with a high energy output means to accomplish initiation of at least two concentric plasma channels in atmosphere, a second energy source for outputting the charged particles to be transmitted, and means for introducing the charged particles to be transmitted into the wall of at least one of the laser-induced conduction channels. Other embodiments further include means for inducing the energy across the conduction path to a target capable of receiving and storing the energy, and a plurality of charging rods bearing a negative or positive charge and in communication with each conductive channel for shaping and stabilizing the charge transmitted therethrough.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2014
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Inventor: Glenn E. Lane
  • Publication number: 20140320313
    Abstract: There is provided a system and method for supplying power to a transmission tower using an optical power transmission device including a transmission line, an optical power transmission device which is mounted on the transmission line and converts power obtained in the transmission line into an optical signal, a transmission tower, an optical power reception device which is mounted on the transmission tower and converts the optical signal into an electrical signal to supply power to various devices mounted on the transmission tower, and an optical fiber which has one end connected to the optical power transmission device and another end connected to the optical power reception device and transmits the optical signal of the optical power transmission device to the optical power reception device, wherein the optical fiber is insulated with an insulator string.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2013
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Inventor: Ul Lok BAE
  • Patent number: 8872391
    Abstract: An electronic device and a method of controlling the electronic device are provided. Based on smart grid information received from a smart grid network, contents are played by an electronic device that consumes less power at a time slot during which a high electricity rate applies, thus minimizing electricity fees.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Haesoo Lee, Jaehong Kim
  • Publication number: 20140312714
    Abstract: In an embodiment, a wireless power distribution system is disclosed. The wireless power distribution system includes a routing module having at least one processor configured to determine a route for a power-receiving device to travel responsive to receiving input about one or more characteristics associated with the power-receiving device or one or more wireless power transmitters for delivering power to the power-receiving device. The wireless power distribution system further includes the one or more wireless power transmitters operably coupled to the routing module. The one or more wireless power transmitters are configured to wirelessly transmit the power to the device at one or more locations along the route.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2013
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Applicant: SEARETE LLC
    Inventors: Roderick A. Hyde, Jordin T. Kare, Clarence T. Tegreene, Lowell L. Wood, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20140306552
    Abstract: A power transmission system is provided which is able to perform stable data communication with high communication sensitivity even when data communication and power transmission are performed at the same time. At least a third coupling electrode pair of first to third coupling electrode pairs is a reference electrode pair connected to a reference potential, one end of a first communication portion is connected to a reference potential of a power transmitting apparatus, and one end of a second communication portion is connected to a reference potential of a power receiving apparatus. Another end of the first communication portion is connected to either one of a power transmitting apparatus-side first or second coupling electrode, and another end of the second communication portion is connected to either one of a power receiving apparatus-side first or second coupling electrode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2014
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Inventors: Shinji Goma, Tsutomu Ieki
  • Patent number: 8860254
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a power feeding apparatus, including: a power feeding portion adapted to feed an electric power in a wireless manner; and a storage body storing therein the power feeding portion. The storage body includes a main body, a first storage portion formed within the main body and storing therein the power feeding portion, and at least one second storage portion formed so as to be adapted to store or retrieve a power receiving apparatus as a storage object in or from the main body, the electric power of the power feeding portion stored in the first storage portion being adapted to be fed from the at least one second storage portion. At least a magnetically shielding portion is formed in an outer peripheral portion, and the at least one second storage portion forms a magnetically closed space in a state of being stored in the main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Osamu Kozakai, Hiroyuki Mita
  • Patent number: 8860256
    Abstract: A domestic appliance having a control device to control device components of the domestic appliance during execution of a program, wherein the device components have electrical loads. The domestic appliance also has a switch to at least partly de-energize the control device after the program has finished executing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeraete GmbH
    Inventor: Michael Georg Rosenbauer
  • Patent number: 8845510
    Abstract: Systems and methods of the invention generally involve a convertible power transfer system for supplying wireless energy to an implant. According to certain aspect, a system of the invention includes a convertible inductive coil and a receiver inductive coil. The convertible inductive coil may be disposed externally on a body of a patient and to inductively transmit electromagnetic power. The convertible inductive coil transitions between direct electromagnetic power transfer and passive electromagnetic power transfer. The receiver inductive coil can be implanted within the body and provides received electromagnetic power to the implant. The convertible inductive coil, during passive electromagnetic power transfer, couples to the receiver inductive coil such that the convertible inductive coil and receiver inductive coil operate together as single receiver inductive coil that receives inductively transferred electromagnetic power from a distant transmitter inductive coil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Leviticus Cardio Ltd.
    Inventor: Michael Zilbershlag
  • Patent number: 8847433
    Abstract: An apparatus for providing power to a multipole in a mass spectrometer is provided. The apparatus comprises a first resonant LC circuit; at least one inductor for forming a second resonant LC circuit with the multipole, the second resonant LC circuit connected in cascade with the first resonant LC circuit, when the at least one inductor is connected to the multipole; an RF power source for providing an RF signal; and a step-up transformer connected in parallel to the RF power source on a primary side and the first resonant LC circuit on a secondary side, the step-up transformer providing voltage gain for the RF signal thereby reducing the loaded Q of the resonant LC circuits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: DH Technologies Development Pte. Ltd.
    Inventor: John Vandermey
  • Publication number: 20140285033
    Abstract: Example method, apparatus, and computer program product embodiments are disclosed for wireless powering of passive objects contained in a functional exchangeable cover of an apparatus. Example embodiments of the invention include a method comprising: receiving, by an apparatus, a signal indicating that a functional exchangeable cover attached to the apparatus requests optical powering, the signal being at least one of a mechanical signal, an electrical signal, or a wireless signal; switching on, by the apparatus, an optical energy source in the apparatus in response to received signal; and transmitting, by the apparatus, from the optical energy source, optical power to the functional exchangeable cover attached to the apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2013
    Publication date: September 25, 2014
    Applicant: Nokia Corporation
    Inventors: Joni JANTUNEN, Jani OLLIKAINEN
  • Patent number: 8836172
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method for transferring energy wirelessly including transferring energy wirelessly from a first resonator structure to an intermediate resonator structure, wherein the coupling rate between the first resonator structure and the intermediate resonator structure is ?1B, transferring energy wirelessly from the intermediate resonator structure to a second resonator structure, wherein the coupling rate between the intermediate resonator structure and the second resonator structure is ?B2, and during the wireless energy transfers, adjusting at least one of the coupling rates ?1B and ?B2 to reduce energy accumulation in the intermediate resonator structure and improve wireless energy transfer from the first resonator structure to the second resonator structure through the intermediate resonator structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Rafif E. Hamam, Aristeidis Karalis, John D. Joannopoulos, Marin Soljacic
  • Patent number: 8836171
    Abstract: The present invention provides a modulation circuit and a method for modulating a wireless power transfer circuit. The modulation circuit has a switching circuit having a first state and a second state. The modulation circuit also has a modulation mode in which the first state defines a normal state and the second state defines an operative state. In the operative state, the modulation circuit modulates an electrical parameter of the wireless power transfer circuit in a modulation direction. The modulation circuit is configured to apply a trial modulation to the electrical parameter to determine whether the modulation direction is in a desired modulation direction. The modulation circuit is also configured to apply a modulation translation if the modulation direction is not in the desired modulation direction, with the modulation translation changing the modulation mode such that the modulation direction is in the desired modulation direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: ConvenientPower HK Ltd.
    Inventors: Wai Pong Choi, Xun Liu
  • Publication number: 20140252886
    Abstract: Disclosed are various embodiments for transmitting energy conveyed in the form of a guided surface-waveguide mode along the surface of a terrestrial medium by exciting a polyphase waveguide probe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2013
    Publication date: September 11, 2014
    Inventors: James F. Corum, Kenneth L. Corum
  • Patent number: 8829727
    Abstract: Power is fed from a feeding coil L2 to a receiving coil L3 by magnetic resonance. A VCO alternately turns ON/OFF switching transistors Q1 and Q2 at a drive frequency fo, whereby AC current is fed to the feeding coil L2, and then the AC current is fed from the feeding coil L2 to the receiving coil L3. A phase detection circuit detects a phase difference between the current phase and voltage phase, and the VCO adjusts the drive frequency fo such that the phase difference becomes zero. In a current phase detection circuit and a voltage phase detection circuit, detection values of the current and voltage phases can be changed, respectively and intentionally.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: TDK Corporation
    Inventor: Takashi Urano
  • Patent number: 8823214
    Abstract: A system includes at least one active energy transfer coil and a first passive energy transfer coil. The active energy transfer coil is configured to couple with a power supply. The at least one active energy transfer coil has an active coupling range. The first passive energy transfer coil is magnetically coupled to the active energy transfer coil and is located within the active coupling range. The first passive energy transfer coil has a passive coupling range. The first passive energy transfer coil is configured to provide energy to a first device located within the passive coupling range and based on energy received from the at least one active energy transfer coil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Haiyang Liu, Chunbo Zhang
  • Publication number: 20140239743
    Abstract: An oscillation frequency power amplification circuit is disclosed herein having improved power and frequency receiver characteristics. The power circuit is characterized by having atmospheric capacitance of device electronic amplify resonate by antenna vessel. Piezoelectrically, a high power device is disclosed that encompasses at least some or all of the techniques described above to achieve an amplification that exhibits both high power and frequency characteristics. The handheld phone, media player, EKG device comprises a number of EKG electrodes and a mood media auto select unit connected to the EKG electrodes sensor amplification transducer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2013
    Publication date: August 28, 2014
    Inventor: JAMES EDWARD JENNINGS
  • Patent number: 8816536
    Abstract: A system includes a dispenser and a transmitter. The dispenser is configured to support and dispense product. The dispenser includes: a housing; an antenna disposed and configured to receive electromagnetic energy that originates from the transmitter; a power supply disposed within the housing and configured to convert the electromagnetic energy received at the antenna into DC (direct current) power; a dispenser mechanism configured and disposed to dispense the product from the dispenser on command; a controller disposed in operable communication with the power supply and the dispenser mechanism; and, an actuator disposed in operable communication with the controller. Upon actuation of the actuator, and upon presence of the DC power, the controller is responsive to facilitate action by the dispenser mechanism to dispense the product. The transmitter is configured to transmit electromagnetic energy and is disposed in operable communication with the dispenser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: Georgia-Pacific Consumer Products LP
    Inventors: Brian S. Borke, Andre Lanouette
  • Publication number: 20140232551
    Abstract: A patient care system described herein includes a first electromagnetic coupler associated with the patient, at least one patient-centric appliance in communication with the first coupler, and an occupant support for supporting the patient. The occupant support has a second electromagnetic coupler associated therewith. At least one of the couplers is connectable to an electrical energy source for energizing the coupler. The first and second couplers form a noncontact electromagnetic coupling. An occupant wearable item and an occupant support, both of which are useable with the patient care system, are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2013
    Publication date: August 21, 2014
    Inventor: Keith A. Huster
  • Publication number: 20140225458
    Abstract: In a first aspect of the present invention, a wireless power transmission link is proposed, which while substantially maintaining resonant coupling condition (resonance frequency of the source resonant circuit is substantially equal to the resonance frequency of the load resonant circuit) detects a coupling condition of the wireless power transmission link. In a further aspect of the present invention, a wireless power transmission link is suggested, which while substantially maintaining resonant coupling condition (resonance frequency of the source resonant circuit is substantially equal to the resonance frequency of the load resonance circuit) controlling the operating state of the wireless power transmission link such, that the coupling condition of wireless power transmission link is substantially limited to the critical coupling condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2014
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Inventor: Markus Rehm
  • Publication number: 20140217091
    Abstract: A wireless heat generation device includes an antenna, a controller, a heating element, and a temperature sensor. The antenna is used for receiving a radio wave and converting the radio wave into electric energy. The controller is used for receiving the electric energy and providing an electric power to the heating element. After the electric power is received by the heating element, the electric power is converted into heat. The temperature sensor is used for sensing a temperature within the wireless heat generation device. If the temperature reaches a preset temperature, the controller stops providing the electric power to the heating element. Consequently, the possibility of causing an overheating problem of the wireless heat generation device will be eliminated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2013
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: Primax Electronics Ltd.
    Inventors: Yung-Hsien Ho, Hung-Wei Chiu, Chun-Hao Lo
  • Patent number: 8796888
    Abstract: The present disclosure sets forth a power management system including a plurality of power management devices configured to transfer power among a plurality of external devices. The power management system includes a first power management device and a second power management device. The first power management device includes a first, second and third communication ports along with first, second and third power ports. The second power management device includes fourth, fifth and sixth communications port along with fourth, fifth and sixth power ports. The first power port of the first power management device is coupled to the fourth power port of the second power management device such that first and second power and the first communications port of the first power management device is coupled to the fourth communications port of the second power management device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: Adaptive Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Jonathan Rice, Thomas Waters, Jason Krajcovic
  • Publication number: 20140210281
    Abstract: A power supply system wirelessly transmits power from a power transmission device to a power receiving device, in which the power transmission device includes a calculation unit configured to calculate a distance from the power transmission device to the power receiving device, a storage unit configured to store a preset relationship between a power transmission efficiency and a distance from the power transmission device to the power receiving device, and a wireless transmission unit configured to wirelessly transmit the distance calculated by the calculation unit and the relationship stored in the storage unit to the power receiving device, and the power receiving device includes a receiving unit configured to wirelessly receive the distance and the relationship from the power transmission device and a notification unit configured to notify a user of the distance and the relationship received by the receiving unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2014
    Publication date: July 31, 2014
    Applicant: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Takehiro Ito, Makoto Kikugawa
  • Publication number: 20140210280
    Abstract: A packaged article arrangement is disclosed. The arrangement includes an article including an article energy source and an article transmitter unit for transmitting electromagnetic radiation; and a package that at least partly envelopes the article. The package includes an electronic circuit that includes a package receiver unit arranged for receiving the electromagnetic radiation transmitted by the article transmitter unit, the electronic circuit being arranged for using the received electromagnetic radiation as sole or additional power supply.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2014
    Publication date: July 31, 2014
    Applicant: Braun GmbH
    Inventor: Martin Simeth
  • Patent number: 8791596
    Abstract: A roadway system for energy generation and distribution is presented. In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, the roadway system comprises a plurality of wind energy generating devices, and a roadway system electricity grid. The wind energy generating devices are electrically connected to the roadway system electricity grid and are positioned on part of or near to a road in a system of roads and are optionally fixed in a position such that a multi-form, wind energy gathering network can be formed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2014
    Assignee: Glouster Applications L.L.C.
    Inventors: Gene S. Fein, Edward Merritt
  • Patent number: 8791814
    Abstract: Some embodiments relate to a remote annunciator 10 that includes an enclosure 11 and a control 12 within the enclosure 11. The control 12 receives signals S from a plurality of transfer switches 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D and at least one generator 14 that is connected to at least one of the transfer switches 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D. The control 12 displays a status of electrical connections that include the plurality of transfer switches 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D and the at least one generator 14. In some embodiments, the control 12 recognizes when the plurality of transfer switches 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D and the at least one generator 14 are connected to the control 12.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2014
    Assignee: Kohler Company
    Inventors: Eric D. Albsmeier, Michael T. Little, Anthony J. Hackbarth
  • Publication number: 20140197699
    Abstract: In some embodiments a device can be coupled to a power device that is capable of being coupled to the device. The power device is to provide power to the device and to include a communications connector (for example, a wired communications connector) to allow communications with the device. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2011
    Publication date: July 17, 2014
    Inventor: Ygdal Naouri