With Charger Stand Or Base Adapted To Hold Battery Pack Patents (Class 320/113)
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Patent number: 8922158Abstract: A portable electronic device chargeable via at least one speaker port is provided. The portable electronic device comprises a housing containing: a processing unit, a least one speaker for playing audio signals; a power pack for powering the portable electronic device, including the processing unit; and a charging circuit electrically connected to the power pack for charging the power pack from an external power source. The portable electronic device further comprises at least one speaker port for enabling sound from the at least one speaker to exit the housing, the at least one speaker port enabled to convey power from the external power source to the charging circuit such that the power pack is chargeable via the at least one speaker port.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2011Date of Patent: December 30, 2014Assignee: Blackberry LimitedInventor: Kwok Ching Leung
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Patent number: 8901880Abstract: Exemplary embodiments are directed to wireless power transfer. A portable wireless power charger includes an antenna configured to generate a magnetic near-field for coupling of wireless power to a wireless powered device including a receiver. The antenna is substantially disposed around the perimeter of the charging pad. The portable wireless power charger further includes a feeder cable for coupling the input power to the charging pad.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2009Date of Patent: December 2, 2014Assignee: QUALCOMM IncorporatedInventors: Nigel P. Cook, Lukas Sieber, Hanspeter Widmer
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Patent number: 8890469Abstract: Methods and devices for detecting USB devices attached to a USB charging port are disclosed. The USB charging port includes a USB port having a first data line D+, a second data line D?, and a power line. A method includes attaching the USB device to the USB port; applying power to the USB device by way of the power line; applying a first voltage to the line D+ at the USB port by way of a first impedance; applying a second voltage to the line D? at the USB port by way of a second impedance. The voltages on the line D+ and the line D? are then monitored at the USB port. If the voltage on the line D+ is approximately equal to a first predetermined value for a predetermined period and the voltage on the line D? is below a second predetermined value, then the USB device is determined to be of an alpha type device.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 2011Date of Patent: November 18, 2014Assignee: Texas Instruments IncorporatedInventor: Jean Picard
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Patent number: 8869944Abstract: A lift truck includes a secondary rechargeable energy storage device on a vertically movable platform that is separate from a primary rechargeable energy storage device on the lift truck's main tractor unit. Wires or hoses for transfer of power or controls between the main tractor unit and the platform are reduced or eliminated. The quantity of energy stored in the secondary rechargeable energy storage device is sufficient to power platform electrical loads for a predetermined amount of time until the platform is lowered. When the platform is lowered, the secondary rechargeable energy storage device is recharged by the primary energy storage device.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2011Date of Patent: October 28, 2014Assignee: The Raymond CorporationInventors: Paul P. McCabe, Daniel G. Radler
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Patent number: 8872474Abstract: A fail safe battery pack is disclosed and claimed wherein first and second housings are affixed together. A plurality of battery cells reside within and fixedly engage the first and the second housings. First and second printed circuit boards (PCBs) reside within first and second lattice structures of the first and second housings. A variable bias device resides in the first and/or second lattice structure of the first and second housing and engages the first and/or second PCBs. When the bias of the variable bias device is sufficiently large it overcomes a plurality of fixed mechanically biased devices operating between the PCB and the plurality of battery cells and tending to separate same and causes the PCB to electrically communicate with the plurality of battery cells. When the bias of the variable bias device is sufficiently small, the plurality of fixed mechanically biased devices separates the PCB and the plurality of battery cells rendering the battery cells in an electrically safe condition.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2010Date of Patent: October 28, 2014Inventor: Karl F. Scheucher
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Patent number: 8860371Abstract: A series battery charger with the function of separate detection, and more particularly a series circuit for detecting the battery charging process and for conducting a series combined discharging process on the same battery charger. The present invention provides a circuit structure capable of selectively switching to an “separate detection charging and series combined discharging mode” and a “synchronous switching control charging and discharging mode” by a synchronous changeover switch module in conjunction with charging circuits. In this way, the stored electric energy can be released for use by the series-connected separate detection charging circuits. Moreover, the charger can deliver 5V power via the standard USB interface to the 3C electronic products for the charging purpose. Meanwhile, the problems of conventional AA or AAA battery chargers and lithium batteries designed as a portable power are overcome, thereby enhancing the effect and safety of the charger.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 2011Date of Patent: October 14, 2014Assignee: Samya Technology Co., Ltd.Inventor: Fu-I Yang
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Patent number: 8836283Abstract: The present invention is related to a rechargeable base station system having a base station connected to a DIN rail assembly. The base station has a base featuring side walls, and a receiving unit rotatably connected to the side walls. The receiving unit has an opened end configured to receive a rechargeable device, and at least one electrical contact which contacts the rechargeable device so as to charge the rechargeable device. The DIN rail assembly has power connection elements that provide power from a power source to the base station when the base station is attached to the DIN rail assembly. The base station can include a battery which provides power to charge the rechargeable device when power from the power source is interrupted. Multiple base stations can be connected to the DIN rail assembly thereby allowing for multiple rechargeable devices to be charged from a single DIN rail assembly.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2013Date of Patent: September 16, 2014Inventor: Karl Hermann Berger
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Patent number: 8823321Abstract: Disclosed are techniques for identifying battery pack types and by inference battery chemistries by measuring a transient response of the battery pack to signal applied to the battery pack.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2010Date of Patent: September 2, 2014Assignee: The Gillette Company—South BostonInventors: Elik Dvorkin, Tanmay P. Gajjar
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Patent number: 8803475Abstract: A device for sterilizing and charging a battery of an instrument, comprising a sterilization device sealingly enclosing therein at least one battery of an instrument and operable to sterilize the at least one battery, an inductively powered battery-charging device disposed inside the sterilization device and having a charger operable to be placed in conductive contact with and charge the at least one battery and a power receiver sub-assembly electrically coupled to the charger and operable to receive electrical power inductively from outside the sterilization device and supply the received electrical power to the charger to charge the battery during sterilization, and a power supply disposed outside the sterilization device and operable to supply power inductively to the power receiver sub-assembly through the sterilization device.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2012Date of Patent: August 12, 2014Assignee: Syntheon, LLCInventors: Kevin W. Smith, Sean M. McBrayer, Derek Dee Deville, Thomas O. Bales, Jr.
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Publication number: 20140217957Abstract: A system for supplying an electric load, in particular for charging a battery device, including a charging station with an accommodation unit for the battery device and a detection unit for the battery device. The detection unit includes a first optical transmitting device for transmitting a first optical signal and an optical receiving device for receiving the first optical signal. The battery device includes a second optical transmitting device for transmitting a second and third optical signal, the second optical transmitting device functioning as a transmitter of a discretely configured optocoupler for transmitting information from the battery device to the charging station. The optical receiving device of the charging station is configured as a receiver of the discretely configured optocoupler for receiving the second and third optical signals.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 25, 2012Publication date: August 7, 2014Inventor: Juergen Mack
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Patent number: 8786254Abstract: Female guide portions for slidingly attaching a battery pack are formed by integral molding of a case main body. Exposed step portions are formed on the female guide portions, which includes protruding portions as thin-walled portions by application from the outer side (the upper side) of a mold so as to reduce the thickness of a thick-walled resin portion. An opening communicating with the inner and outer side of the case is not provided, while the protruding portions are formed as thin-walled portions. Bottom surfaces of the exposed step portions are formed so as to be sloped with respect to the horizontal direction when the battery charger is placed on a horizontal base, and water dropped on the bottom surfaces can flow outside of the case due to the slope without remaining thereon.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2011Date of Patent: July 22, 2014Assignee: Makita CorporationInventors: Hironori Ogura, Mamoru Sakai
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Patent number: 8786251Abstract: A charger for charging a battery of an electronic device is provided. The electronic device has a charging clip that clips to a structure of the charger. The structure has a plurality of conductive strips disposed thereon. The number of conductive strips contacted by a charging contact on the charging clip determines the amount of current provided to the electronic device for charging.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2011Date of Patent: July 22, 2014Assignee: BlackBerry LimitedInventors: Douglas Burrell, Steven Henry Fyke, Jerome Pasquero, David Ryan Walker
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Patent number: 8754611Abstract: Some embodiments of the present invention provide a system that adaptively charges a battery, wherein the battery is a lithium-ion battery which includes a transport-limiting electrode governed by diffusion, an electrolyte separator and a non-transport-limiting electrode. During operation, the system determines a lithium surface concentration at an interface between the transport-limiting electrode and the electrolyte separator based on a diffusion time for lithium in the transport-limiting electrode. Next, the system calculates a charging current or a charging voltage for the battery based on the determined lithium surface concentration. Finally, the system applies the charging current or the charging voltage to the battery.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2008Date of Patent: June 17, 2014Assignee: Apple Inc.Inventors: Thomas C. Greening, P. Jeffrey Ungar, William C. Athas
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Patent number: 8742720Abstract: A lockable charging station for charging rechargeable electric devices comprising a base to encapsulate the electrical charging station and a plurality of locking cover members, wherein each locking cover member is removably mechanically engageable with the base via tab and slot engagement and is individually lockable to the base using a lock. Each locking cover member secures an individual electric device to the base so that the electric device is held in electrical engagement with the charging station until the individual user removes the locking cover. The lockable charging station may include a multi-unit charger with an encapsulating base and plurality of locking cover members or a base with mounting points for individual chargers and a plurality of locking covers.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2011Date of Patent: June 3, 2014Assignee: Owens Products, Inc.Inventors: Gary Kirtley, Craig Randall
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Patent number: 8742724Abstract: A battery pack for power tool includes a battery, a monitoring circuit, and a sleep mode switching unit. The battery includes at least one battery cell. The monitoring circuit is operated by receiving power supply from the battery. The sleep mode switching unit switches the battery pack to a sleep mode by stopping at least a part or all of operations of the monitoring circuit when the monitoring circuit detects a discharge end state where a discharge current from the battery is equal to or lower than a predetermined set current value, and the monitoring circuit further detects at least one of a voltage stable state where a voltage change amount in the battery cell is within a predetermined stable range of voltage change amount and a temperature stable state where a temperature change amount in the battery is within a predetermined stable range of temperature change amount.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2009Date of Patent: June 3, 2014Assignee: Makita CorporationInventors: Hitoshi Suzuki, Tadahiko Kobayakawa, Tomoo Muramatsu
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Patent number: 8710996Abstract: An invisible fence battery charger for dramatically reducing homeowner's yearly invisible fence operating costs and reducing disposal of non-rechargeable batteries. The invisible fence battery charger includes a battery pack including a battery with battery terminals being in communication with the battery.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2011Date of Patent: April 29, 2014Inventor: Jeffrey Bryan Gronneberg
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Patent number: 8704486Abstract: An electricity storage system has secondary battery housing system racks in which secondary batteries and circuit blocks are respectively housed, and a power converter housing rack in which a power converter is housed, and which is orderly disposed together with the plurality of secondary battery housing system racks. The secondary battery housing system rack having a positive-electrode-side terminal directly connected to a positive-electrode-side terminal of the power converter by a positive-electrode bus and the secondary battery housing system rack having a negative-electrode-side terminal directly connected to a negative-electrode-side terminal of the power converter by a negative-electrode bus, are different from each other.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2012Date of Patent: April 22, 2014Assignee: Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd.Inventors: Takeshi Nakashima, Hayato Ikebe, Yohei Yamada
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Publication number: 20140097796Abstract: A universal charger includes a portable charger housing, an universal charging arrangement, and an energy input device. The universal charging arrangement includes a charging circuitry for managing electricity charging of the rechargeable battery, and a plurality of charging terminals movably provided in the battery compartment of the portable charging housing, wherein the charging terminals are adapted to move in the battery compartment to accurately and adjustably align with the battery terminals of the rechargeable battery. The energy input device is electrically connected with the charging circuitry, which is capable of charging a wide variety of electronic devices by acquiring power through a convention USB port.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 12, 2013Publication date: April 10, 2014Applicant: ADA (Hong Kong) LimitedInventor: Hung Hi Law
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Patent number: 8692514Abstract: A charging station for portable electronic devices includes a base having a substantially vertical and forward facing wall and a plurality of suction cups secured to the wall to temporarily secure the portable electronic devices to the wall in a position that the portable electronic devices can be viewed and operated while recharging. The suction cups can be secured in a plurality of laterally spaced-apart positions so that multiple portable electronic devices can be secured side-by-side for recharging or more than one suction cup can secure a larger portable electronic device. The suction cups can also be secured in a plurality of vertically spaced apart positions so that the suction cup can engage the portable electronic device at a selected height or so that more than one suction cup can secure the portable electronic device. The charging station also organizes mail, keys, wallets, and the like.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2011Date of Patent: April 8, 2014Inventor: Doug Clouser
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Patent number: 8684106Abstract: A battery pack 10 includes a housing 11, a group of cells 12, a board 13, a plurality of second terminals 14, and a cover 15. An opening 16c is formed in the housing 11. The board 13 has a terminal arranging part 13A. A plurality of the second terminals 14 are arranged on the terminal arranging part 13A of the board 13. The cover 15 has a plate-like shape, and covers an area of the board 13 which is positioned between the terminal arranging part 13A and the opening 16c.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 2010Date of Patent: April 1, 2014Assignee: Hitachi Koki Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hiroyuki Hanawa, Kousei Yokoyama, Keita Saitou
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Patent number: 8686682Abstract: An auxiliary power supply (150) includes an auxiliary battery (152), power supply circuitry (154), and a connector (108b). The power supply circuitry (154) supplies an output which provides electrical energy for powering the electrical circuitry (102) of a battery powered device (100) and for recharging a battery (104) associated therewith. In one embodiment, the power supply circuitry (154) supplies an output current which is a function of the charge state of the auxiliary battery (152) and a load current presented by the electrical circuitry (102).Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2011Date of Patent: April 1, 2014Assignee: Eveready Battery Company, Inc.Inventors: Jon S. Eager, Peter F. Hoffman
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Patent number: 8680809Abstract: A battery charger includes a rotatable top cover for exposing electrical connectors for physically coupling and electrically communicating with a battery or other device and providing electrical energy for charging a battery or device.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2011Date of Patent: March 25, 2014Assignee: Nokia CorporationInventors: Tero Juhani Lahti, Timo Tapani Toivola, Heikki Olavi Suuronen, Per Brickstad, Kalevi Antero Salo
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Patent number: 8659262Abstract: A battery charger includes telephone handset and a connector for connecting with a cellular phone. A sound signal can be transmitted between the telephone handset and the cellular phone via the connector.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2010Date of Patent: February 25, 2014Assignee: Makita CorporationInventors: Masahiko Goto, Tsuyoshi Murayama
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Patent number: 8659264Abstract: A battery charger (100) includes a base (102) which selectively receives first (104a) and second (104b) battery pods. The battery pods (104a, 104b), which are adapted to receive one or more batteries (212) for charging, have a form factor which facilitates the handling of the pods (104) and the batteries (212) received therein. Charging energy may be allocated between the pods (104) as a function of the temporal sequence in which the pods (104) are received by the base (102). Charging energy may also be allocated among the batteries (212) so that the batteries (212) are substantially charged at about the same time.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 2012Date of Patent: February 25, 2014Assignee: Eveready Battery Company, Inc.Inventors: Michael J. Brandon, II, Jason M. Barr, Peter F. Hoffman, David A. Furth, Rachel P. Devereaux, Mandy R. Iswarienko
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Patent number: 8643331Abstract: Enhanced voltage-based fuel gauges and methods that increase the accuracy of voltage-based fuel gauges and allow the use of voltage-based fuel gauges to detect current, and particularly excessive current from a battery without the use of a sense resistor. When used with a coulomb counter, the outputs of a voltage-based fuel gauge and a coulomb counter may be combined in a manner that allows the combination to provide better performance that either alone may provide. Various embodiments and methods of operation are disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2012Date of Patent: February 4, 2014Assignee: Maxim Integrated Products, Inc.Inventors: Jason Allen Wortham, Parviz Ghaseminejad
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Patent number: 8638060Abstract: Solar panel assemblies herein are configured to couple to a boat trailer in order to charge a battery in a boat secured on top of the trailer. The solar panel assemblies can be configured to have means for 360 rotation to allow efficient sunlight capture and to allow for a more aerodynamic profile when the trailer is being towed. The assemblies herein include a solar panel housing that can include downwardly slanting sides to protect the one or more solar panels mounted within the housing from road debris.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2011Date of Patent: January 28, 2014Inventor: Steven Grant Bruneau
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Patent number: 8633675Abstract: A video game controller charging system is provided. The video game controller charging system includes a base; at least one structure on the base for providing physical support to at least one video game controller while it is being charged; and at least one DC port on the base configured to couple to and provide DC power to a power input port of the at least one video game controller. The video game controller charging system may also include a current detector, a charging status indicator, at least one docking bay, and/or an AC-to-DC converter adapted to convert externally supplied power to the DC power provided to the power input port of at least one video game controller. The base of a charging station may include a recess having at least one electrical contact and a power input for connection to a power supply.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 2013Date of Patent: January 21, 2014Assignee: Nyko Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Amir Navid
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Patent number: 8633676Abstract: A charging status display circuit is used in an electronic device. The electronic device includes a power supply circuit, a rechargeable battery, and an interface circuit capable of electrically connecting with the rechargeable battery. The electronic device is powered by either the power supply circuit or the rechargeable battery. The rechargeable battery is charged by the power supply circuit via the interface circuit. The charging status display unit includes a light emitting diode for indicating whether the rechargeable battery is being charged, and a surface-contact diode for clamping a voltage between the light emitting diode and the interface unit at a predetermined value. The light emitting diode is connected in series between the power supply circuit and the interface circuit. The surface-contact diode is connected in parallel with the light emitting diode.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2010Date of Patent: January 21, 2014Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd, Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.Inventor: Xing-Hua Tang
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Patent number: 8629651Abstract: A wireless charging device includes a charging battery, a transmitter coupled to the charging battery, and a controller coupled to the charging battery and the transmitter. The controller is configured to direct power from the charging battery to the transmitter and wirelessly transmit the power to a receiver. The wireless charging device also includes a housing, wherein the charging battery, the transmitter, and the controller are disposed at least partly within the housing.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2010Date of Patent: January 14, 2014Assignee: Callpod, Inc.Inventors: Darren S. Guccione, Craig B. Lurey, Lourans Aoraha
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Patent number: 8624547Abstract: The present invention relates to a tray comprising: a) a base panel having two opposite edges adapted for sliding within grooves of a structure; b) a pair of electrical contacts located on the two opposite edges of the base adapted to conduct electricity; c) a battery recharging system adapted to provide one or more electromagnetic fields capable of transferring an electrical charge to a properly equipped electrical device having a rechargeable battery or a connection for a portable electronic device adapted to connect the portable electronic device to the power system of a host and/or other electronic systems of the host; d) means for connecting the pair of electrical contacts to the battery recharging system or to the connection to the portable electronic device; e) one or more display panels providing a surface for resting one or more rechargeable portable electric devices upon, such panels adapted to allow one or more users of portable electronic device to view one or more displays of the portable electroType: GrantFiled: December 16, 2010Date of Patent: January 7, 2014Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co, LtdInventors: Roy Thorsell, Thomas A. Miller
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Patent number: 8618772Abstract: A transportable electrical energy storage system includes an electrical energy storage unit, an electrical energy storage unit management system operably associated with the electrical energy storage unit, an AC/DC rectifier operably associated with the electrical energy storage unit management system, and a DC/DC converter operably associated with the electrical energy storage unit management system. The system further includes at least one bi-directional adapter operatively associated with the electrical energy storage unit and a case for protecting the electrical energy storage unit, the electrical energy storage unit management system, the AC/DC rectifier, the DC/DC converter, and the at least one bi-directional adapter.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 2008Date of Patent: December 31, 2013Assignee: Lockheed Martin CorporationInventors: Toby D. Thomas, James C. Copp, David L. Hoelscher, Lloyd K. Farris
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Patent number: 8610403Abstract: A charging cradle for a rechargeable medium having a charging contact. The charging cradle including a cradling-body, which includes a receiving area shaped to receive the rechargeable medium; a charging circuit having a charging and a non-charging state; a charging contact electrically coupled to the charging circuit and positioned to be alignable with the charging contact of the rechargeable medium; and a switch coupled to the cradling-body for interacting with the rechargeable medium to place the charging circuit in the charging state or the non-charging state. When the rechargeable medium is fully inserted into the receiving area such that the charging contact of the rechargeable medium is aligned with the charging contact of the cradling-body, the rechargeable medium, via the switch, places the charging circuit in the charging state, and when the rechargeable medium is not fully inserted, the switch places the charging circuit in the non-charging state to prevent short-circuiting of the charging circuit.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2010Date of Patent: December 17, 2013Assignee: BlackBerry LimitedInventor: Chao Chen
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Patent number: 8581544Abstract: An apparatus for charging a portable device battery with a vehicle battery is provided. The apparatus includes a storage, a voltage monitor for monitoring voltage of the vehicle battery, a portable device connector, and a charging controller. The storage stores a charging table in which charging quantity ratios of the portable device battery to voltage bandwidths of the vehicle battery are written. The charging controller controls the connector so that the portable battery is charged to a desired value of voltage that corresponds to the monitored voltage in the charging table. With this apparatus, it is possible to charge conveniently, among others.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2010Date of Patent: November 12, 2013Assignee: Hyundai Motor CompanyInventor: Dong Ok Kim
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Patent number: 8564242Abstract: A rechargable battery with an internal microcontroller. The microcontroller contains a memory in which data regarding the environment to which the battery is exposed are stored. These data are read by a processor integral with the charger used to charge the battery. If these data indicates the battery may have been subjected to a harsh environment, such as being exposed to an excessive temperature, the charger performs a fulle state of health evaluation of the battery.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 2009Date of Patent: October 22, 2013Assignee: Stryker CorporationInventors: Brey Daniel Hansford, Don Malackowski
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Patent number: 8564243Abstract: A charging module comprises a power supply device and at least one adapter, wherein a first and second magnetic attraction components, which are attracted to each other, are respectively disposed to a coupling place between the adapter and the power supply device. While in use, the power supply device is electrically connected to an electronic product through the adapter. Power from the power supply device is delivered to the electronic product, and attraction of the first and second magnetic attraction components is utilized to retain the junction effect between the adapter and the power supply device. The electronic product can be separated from the power supply device by slightly imposing forces. The electronic product can be quickly taken by a user without influencing the operation of the electronic product.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2011Date of Patent: October 22, 2013Assignee: Tennrich International Corp.Inventors: Shih-Hui Chen, Chin-Tien Lin
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Patent number: 8558503Abstract: A charging cradle for mounting a portable terminal or a battery pack for the portable terminal, a multi-plug adapted to be mounted by being inserted into the charging cradle, hook holes formed in the charging cradle, and hooks adapted to be engaged with the hook holes, wherein the direction for inserting the multi-plug into the charging cradle and the direction for connecting the multi-plug to an external receptacle are perpendicular to each other, is provided, so that charging cradles adapted to be commonly used worldwide, and by localizing multi-plugs by countries or cities, i.e., by providing each country or city with multi-plugs adapted to be suitably used in such a country or a city, enable a user to use his or her charging device by only buying a multi-plug available in a country or a city where the user stays if it is desired.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2011Date of Patent: October 15, 2013Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Chang-Hoon Jeong, Jong-Hyun Lee, Chul-Kwi Kim
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Patent number: 8552877Abstract: A rechargeable battery includes a housing having an external surface including a user interface region. A battery cell within the housing is characterized by a charging status, a state of charge, and a state of health. A processor disposed within the housing determines and/or stores the charging status as well as one or more of the state of charge and the state of health of the battery cell. The user interface region provides a plurality of visual components configured to provide a plurality of visual cues relating to the charging status, the state of charge, and the state of health of the battery cell. The plurality of visual components may include a persistent display, an on-demand display, and an input component. The input component may be used to select the manner in which the visual cues are provided.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2009Date of Patent: October 8, 2013Assignee: Symbol Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Richard Martin, William Bang, Mark Palmer, Christopher Paul, Quintin Morris
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Patent number: 8547063Abstract: A power supply system for an electronic device which includes a power source, a docking mechanism configured to dock a first electronic device, a docking connector configured to provide power from the power source to the first electronic device when it is docked to the docking mechanism, and a power output port configured to provide power from the power source to a second electronic device without having the second electronic device docked.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2010Date of Patent: October 1, 2013Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.Inventors: Robert Krancher, Brian Ryder
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Patent number: 8545039Abstract: A lamp base having an electrical device recharging receptacle configured to receive a plug from a recharging device for a portable rechargeable electronic device. The receptacle is configured as a standard automobile cigarette lighter receptacle. The receptacle includes standard cigarette lighter receptacle electrical contacts that are connected to a voltage and current conversion circuit for receiving standard household voltage and converting it into standard automotive voltage and current. An adapter receptacle is provided in the lamp base with securable replacement electrical and mechanical connection mechanism, wherein the conversion circuit provides a voltage and current to the adapter receptacle. A replaceably securable USB adapter plug comprising a second conversion circuit for converting the voltage and current provided to the adapter receptacle into a standard USB voltage and current.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2010Date of Patent: October 1, 2013Inventor: Bharat Patel
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Patent number: 8536832Abstract: A video game controller charging system is provided. The video game controller charging system includes a base; at least one structure on the base for providing physical support to at least one video game controller while it is being charged; and at least one DC port on the base configured to couple to and provide DC power to a power input port of the at least one video game controller. The video game controller charging system may also include a current detector, a charging status indicator, at least one docking bay, and/or an AC-to-DC converter adapted to convert externally supplied power to the DC power provided to the power input port of at least one video game controller. The base of a charging station may include a recess having at least one electrical contact and a power input for connection to a power supply.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2012Date of Patent: September 17, 2013Assignee: Nyko Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Amir Navid
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Patent number: 8536827Abstract: A device for mounting a mobile electronic device to an alternating current charger is provided. The mount allows the user to charge a mobile electronic device with the alternating current charger provided by the original equipment manufacturer of the mobile electronic device. The mount also protects the mobile electronic device from damage.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2012Date of Patent: September 17, 2013Inventor: James Robert Gourley
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Patent number: 8487585Abstract: An electrical combination including a driver drill capable of producing an average current draw of approximately 20-amps, a circular saw capable of producing an average current draw of approximately 20-amps, and a power tool battery pack operable to supply power to the driver drill and to the circular saw, the battery pack including a plurality of battery cells, the plurality of battery cells each having a lithium-based chemistry.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2012Date of Patent: July 16, 2013Assignee: Milwaukee Electric Tool CorporationInventors: Todd W. Johnson, Dennis J. Grzybowski, Mark A. Kubale, Jay J. Rosenbecker, Gary D. Meyer, Jeffrey M. Zeiler, Kevin L. Glasgow, Karl F. Schuecher
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Patent number: 8482251Abstract: A charger provides a user selectable interface which allows a battery operated portable communication device to be charged in either face-up or face-down positions. Both single-unit charger and multi-unit charger embodiments are provided. A dual contact scheme allows for the user to select either the face-up or face-down configuration. The face-down configuration accommodates battery powered portable communication devices having accessories as well as radio back housings of varying thickness. Additional storage bins are configured within the charging systems to further improve organization of multiple accessories. Magnetic coupling is also provided to facilitate organization of two or more single-unit chargers.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2009Date of Patent: July 9, 2013Assignee: Motorola Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Vance M. McGary, Jean-Phillippe J. Cantave, Lorenzo J. Cruger, LanTing L. Garra, Wayne M. Phang
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Patent number: 8482252Abstract: A docking station (100) is adapted for charging or otherwise transmitting electrical signals to an electronic device (240). The docking station (100) includes a main housing (102) and a device connector assembly (204). The device connector assembly (204) is coupled to the main housing (102) and electronically connected to circuit components (130, 132) for mechanically and electrically coupling the electronic device (240) to the docking station (100).Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2009Date of Patent: July 9, 2013Assignee: Byrne Electrical Specialists, Inc.Inventor: Norman R. Byrne
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Publication number: 20130154565Abstract: A foreign material removing structure includes an inserting hole, a battery-side terminal, and a push-out section. The hole provided in a battery pack extends in an attaching direction of the pack, and has an opening that a charger-side terminal can enter, the opening being formed in one end side in an extending direction. The battery-side terminal is provided in the hole to contact the charger-side terminal that enters the hole from the opening when the pack is attached to the charger. The section provided on the further forward side in the attaching direction than the opening in the pack has a surface that intersects the attaching direction. The structure is configured such that the section is at a region shifted to the further forward side in the attaching direction than the charger-side terminal when the forward side in the attaching direction of the battery-side terminal contacts the charger-side terminal.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 31, 2011Publication date: June 20, 2013Applicant: MAKITA CORPORATIONInventors: Mamoru Sakai, Kouji Okamura
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Patent number: 8456131Abstract: An apparatus for providing electricity to a portable electronic device comprising: a wall plate that surrounds and attaches to an electrical wall receptacle, a charging cradle with a platform for supporting a portable electronic device; a male charging connector coupled to an opening slot in the charging cradle's platform, wherein the charging connector is insertable into a female charging port of a portable electronic device; and a transformer circuit coupled to the male charging connector, wherein the transformer circuit transforms a receiving electricity to an output electricity having an output voltage, an output current and an output wattage wherein the output electricity is within a range sufficient for charging the portable electronic device.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2010Date of Patent: June 4, 2013Inventor: Hans Bukow
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Patent number: 8450970Abstract: A small footprint portable battery charging station having a vertically mounted circuit board, containing the charging circuit components, enclosed within a housing. The charging station is arrayed with bays back to back within which the batteries under charge may be mounted. The battery charging station further containing intake vents close to the base of the station and exhaust vents close to the top of the station. These vents encourage the natural convective flow of air around the charging circuit components.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 2008Date of Patent: May 28, 2013Assignee: Micro Power Electronics, Inc.Inventor: Jared I. Drinkwater
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Patent number: 8436578Abstract: A battery charger assembly includes an outer casing with a sleeve assembled therein having a cavity profiled to receive a battery alone, or a battery and its associated appliance. A cam-operated assembly includes a cam member which moves a gripper assembly into the cavity to grip the battery. In this manner, a battery and/or its appliance may be inserted into the charger, and used in automotive use without the battery and/or the appliance becoming discharged from the charger assembly.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2004Date of Patent: May 7, 2013Assignee: Pine Valley Investments, Inc.Inventor: Dwight D Smith
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Publication number: 20130106352Abstract: The battery charger is capable of charging a battery pack 2. The battery charger is provided with a docking section 1 where the battery pack 2 can be attached for charging, and a charging section 3 with a charging circuit 40 to supply a given amount of charging power to the battery pack 2 attached in the docking section 1. The battery charger is characterized by the docking section 1 and charging section 3 having a detachable structure.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 5, 2012Publication date: May 2, 2013Inventor: Hiroshi NAGAMINE
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Patent number: 8432124Abstract: A portable electronic device carrier supports and protects a portable electronic device while providing power to the device. The carrier is configured to house various portable electronic devices such as smart phones, cell phones, PDAs, tablets or the like. The carrier may comprise a foldable structure comprising two flaps or panels. One or more solar panels, batteries or both may provide power to a portable electronic device via a charging port that engages an interface of the portable electronic device. The carrier may include one or more retractable legs which support its panels relative to one another such that the portable electronic device may be held at various positions or angles which are well suited for different tasks. The carrier may include memory devices and various other ports to enhance the capabilities of the portable electronic device.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2011Date of Patent: April 30, 2013Assignee: A&D Concepts, LLCInventor: David A. Foster