Using A Transformer Or Inductor As The Final Control Device Patents (Class 323/301)
  • Patent number: 11507118
    Abstract: A control system for a voltage regulation device is configured to determine a tap position of a tap changing mechanism of the voltage regulation device, the control system being configured to: determine an internal impedance of the voltage regulation device based on an initial tap position; determine a voltage of the internal impedance based on a measured load current; determine a voltage of the first winding based on the input voltage, the output voltage, and the voltage of the internal impedance; and determine the tap position based on the voltage of the first winding, N, and a voltage of a second winding, where N is an integer value that represents a count of turns on the second winding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2022
    Assignee: Eaton Intelligent Power Limited
    Inventors: Daniel Joseph Daley, Fred Joseph Rapant, Richard John Kaluzny, Daniel Michael Sauer, Kyle James Heiden
  • Patent number: 11196261
    Abstract: A centralized voltage controller according to the present invention includes a voltage distribution determination unit that calculates a controlled amount in each of a plurality of voltage controllers on the basis of a measured value of a voltage at each point on a distribution line, a tap position determination unit that determines a change amount of a tap position to be given to each of a plurality of local voltage control units on the basis of the controlled amount, and a tap-change-amount management unit that limits the change amount when receiving, from the local voltage control unit, a limit signal indicating that a tap position in the voltage controller controlled by the local voltage control unit is an upper limit or a lower limit of a settable range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2021
    Assignee: MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC CORPORATION
    Inventor: Nobuhiko Itaya
  • Patent number: 10276300
    Abstract: A common mode inductor (10) for suppression of common mode noise and transmission of a differential signal is disclosed. The inductor comprises a core (15) with a first and second winding (11, 12), wherein the first winding and the second winding forms a pair of conductors arranged to convey a differential communication signal. Further, a third and fourth winding (13, 14) is arranged to extend along at least a portion of the first and second winding, respectively. The third winding and the fourth winding may be locally inductively coupled to the first winding and the second winding, respectively. Moreover, the third winding and the fourth winding are connected in series with each other so that differential signal on the first and second windings transformed to the third and fourth winding maybe added to each other. The third and fourth winding may hence provide a sensor signal induced by the differential communication signal in the first winding and the second winding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2019
    Assignee: ABB Schweiz AG
    Inventors: Gustav Bergquist, Tomas Modeer, Joakim Asplund
  • Patent number: 10199948
    Abstract: A secondary controller applied to a secondary side of a power converter includes a detector and a standby signal generation circuit. The detector is used for detecting a first signal and a second signal of a universal serial bus device, and a frequency of a synchronization signal corresponding to a primary side of the power converter. The standby signal generation circuit is coupled to the detector for delaying a first predetermined time to generate a standby signal to a primary controller of the primary side of the power converter when the detector fails to detect the first signal and the second signal, and the frequency of the synchronization signal is less than a first predetermined frequency, wherein the primary controller enters a standby mode according to the standby signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: Leadtrend Technology Corp.
    Inventors: Yao-Tsung Chen, Mao-Shih Li, San-Yi Li, Hung-Ching Lee
  • Patent number: 9627906
    Abstract: Disclosed are a load/charger detection circuit, a battery management system comprising the same and a driving method thereof. The load/charger detection circuit includes a current source; a current mirror connected to the current source to copy a current of the current mirror; at least two resistors connected between a first terminal providing a corresponding voltage to a charger or a load and a power supply; and a zener diode connected between the first terminal and the current mirror.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2017
    Assignee: Fairchild Korea Semiconductor LTD
    Inventors: Jinhwa Chung, Sehwan Kim
  • Patent number: 9502905
    Abstract: In a signal and power transmission system, a primary coil and a secondary coil magnetically coupled to the primary coil and connected to an electrical path are provided. An encoder encodes a target signal to be transmitted to produce a pulse code signal, and a voltage applying unit applies a voltage signal based on the pulse code signal to the primary coil as an input voltage signal. A decoder decodes an output voltage signal induced in the secondary coil using a variation in the output voltage signal into a decoded signal corresponding to the target signal. The output voltage signal is induced in the secondary coil based on the input voltage signal. A rectifier rectifies a current flowing through the electrical path connected to the secondary coil according to the output voltage signal induced in the secondary coil, thus outputting a rectified current as power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2016
    Assignee: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventor: Nobuhisa Yamaguchi
  • Patent number: 9484746
    Abstract: A power converter circuit includes output terminals configured to receive an external AC voltage. At least one series circuit has at least two converter units. Each converter unit includes input terminals configured to be coupled to a DC power source. Output terminals provide an AC output current. The at least one series circuit is connected between the output terminals of the power converter circuit. A voltage measurement circuit is connected between the output terminals of the power converter circuit and configured to provide at least one measurement signal that includes information related to phase and frequency of the external AC voltage. At least one of the converter units is configured to receive the at least one measurement signal and is configured to regulate the generation of the AC output current dependent on the at least one measurement signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2016
    Assignee: Infineon Technologies Austria AG
    Inventors: Yi Tang, Gerald Deboy
  • Patent number: 9020654
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system and computer program product for implementing a smart transformer, comprising a processor, and a balancing algorithm residing on the processor, wherein the balancing algorithm is stored on a non-transitory computer readable medium having computer executable program code embodied thereon, the computer executable program code configured to cause the system to monitor and control an electric customer load and generation in order to optimize the performance of a distribution transformer, wherein the processor receives a plurality of system inputs and uses the balancing algorithm to determine a rating of the transformer and an amount of customer load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: San Diego Gas & Electric Company
    Inventors: William Vincent Torre, Amanda Louise Myers, Michael James Colburn
  • Patent number: 8912639
    Abstract: Aspects of a method and system for configuring a transformer embedded in a multi-layer integrated circuit package are provided. In this regard, a windings ratio of a transformer embedded in a multi-layer IC package bonded to an IC may be configured, via logic, circuitry, and/or code in the IC, based on signal levels at one or more terminals of the transformer. The transformer may comprise a plurality of inductive loops fabricated in transmission line media. The integrated circuit may be flip-chip bonded to the multi-layer package. The IC may comprise a signal strength indicator enabled to measure signal levels input to or output by the transformer. The windings ratio may be configured via one or more switches in the IC and/or in the multi-layer package. The IC and/or the multi-layer package may comprise ferromagnetic material which may improve magnetic coupling of the transformer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Assignee: Broadcom Corporation
    Inventor: Ahmadreza Rofougaran
  • Patent number: 8847570
    Abstract: This disclosure is directed to regulating electric power at a node of a system for distribution of electricity. A voltage controller can identify properties of branch structures in a system that includes a voltage regulation device that controls a voltage source supplying electricity to nodes via the branch structures. The voltage controller can receive information on voltage and current associated with electricity provided by the voltage source. The voltage controller can receive, from a metering devices at nodes in the system, primary voltage information. The voltage controller can select one of the nodes based on the primary voltage information. The voltage controller can determine, based on the properties, an impedance for a branch structure corresponding to the selected node. The voltage controller can control the voltage regulation device based on the impedance for the branch structure corresponding to the selected node and the information on the voltage and the current.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Utilidata, Inc.
    Inventor: David Bell
  • Publication number: 20140232315
    Abstract: A method and a system for controlling input voltage (1) for electric charges (5) that have a selective organization of electric components for more than one input voltage (1), preferably for induction motors used on cooling compressors, by means of a set of output switches (4). The detection may be made either directly by means of a processing unit (3) or indirectly by means of a network sensor (6) capable of supplying information to the processing unit (3). Optionally, there is a protection sensor (7), as well as control reference values (8) capable of supplying information to the processing unit (3) for better protection of the electric charges (5).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2012
    Publication date: August 21, 2014
    Applicant: WHIRLPOOL S.A.
    Inventors: Marcelo Zanelato, Marcos Roberto De Souza, Silvia Helena Pini
  • Patent number: 8749152
    Abstract: A switching power supply includes a first switching element, a rectifying element, a first inductor and a second inductor. The first switching element supplies a power supply voltage to the first inductor and al lows a current to flow when the first switching element is on. The rectifying element is connected in series to the first switching element, and allows a current of the first inductor to flow when the first switching element is turned off. The second inductor is electromagnetically coupled to the first inductor, a potential to turn on the first switching element is induced when the current of the first inductor increases, and a potential to turn off the first switching element is induced when the current of the first inductor decreases. The induced potential is supplied to a control terminal of the first switching element. The rectifying element includes a diode and a second switching element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Toshiba Lighting & Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Yuji Takahashi, Noriyuki Kitamura
  • Patent number: 8742943
    Abstract: In some embodiments, a system including an electronic device. The electronic device includes an electric power input configured to receive an electric power signal and has an input line terminal and an input neutral terminal. In some embodiments, the electric power input can also have an input ground terminal. The electronic device includes a metal oxide varistor protection module configured to protect at least one of the system or the electronic device. The electronic device includes a ground detection module configured to indicate the presence of an electric ground. The electronic device includes an electric power output having an output line terminal and an output neutral terminal. In some embodiments, the electric power output can also have an output ground terminal. The electric power input, the metal oxide varistor protection module, the ground detection module, and the electric power output are electrically coupled in series with each other. Other embodiments are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Belkin International, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey W. Garb
  • Publication number: 20140086606
    Abstract: An image forming apparatus includes an image carrier and the following elements. A charging unit charges the image carrier. An exposure unit exposes the charged image carrier to light and forms an electrostatic latent image. A developing unit generates a developing electric field and develops the electrostatic latent image. A transfer unit transfers the developed image. A controller outputs an AC setting signal. The developing unit includes a bias power supply source having the following elements. An output transformer includes a primary winding and a secondary winding. A switching circuit supplies a current to the primary winding. A current control circuit includes first impedance and second impedance. The first impedance is set when the AC voltage has a first frequency and the second impedance is set when the AC voltage has a second frequency, thereby controlling a current flowing between the primary winding and the switching circuit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2013
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Applicant: FUJI XEROX CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Yuya SAKURABAYASHI
  • Patent number: 8653801
    Abstract: A boost circuit is used for power factor correction (PFC). In a low power application, transition mode control is utilized. However, switching frequency varies with different input voltages, and over a wide input voltage range, the switching frequency can become too high to be practical. To address this issue, a boost circuit is provided whose effective inductance changes as a function of input voltage. By changing the inductance, control is exercised over switching frequency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: STMicroelectronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Jianwen Shao, Thomas L. Hopkins
  • Patent number: 8593839
    Abstract: A novel system and methodology for providing a volt-second clamp. A DC/DC conversion system configured for producing an output voltage in response to an input voltage has a transformer with a primary winding responsive to the input voltage and a secondary winding for producing the output voltage. The conversion system has a power switch coupled to the primary winding of the transformer and controlled with a converter control signal, such as a PWM control signal. The power switch is further controlled by a comparator that compares an input value supplied to its input with a variable reference value so as to prevent magnetic flux density of the transformer from increasing to an undesired level. The input value of the comparator is produced by a comparator input circuit as a function of the input voltage and an on-time of the power switch. A reference circuit produces the reference value that varies as a function of the input voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Linear Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Charles Edward Hawkes
  • Patent number: 8558519
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for measuring the source-side line voltage from a source potential transformer (PT) of a regulator during reverse power flow. A reverse power regulation algorithm is employed during reverse power operation of the tapchanger to energize a contact relay which switches the analog voltage input from the load side to the source side of the regulator. Voltage regulation then operates based on the measured source side voltage instead of the traditional calculation of the source side voltage based upon the load-side voltage and regulator type.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Beckwith Electric Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy J. Bryant, Thaichong Li
  • Patent number: 8552701
    Abstract: The present invention refers to a system for regulating a load voltage (C) in power distribution circuits comprising at least: a regulation transformer (2) the secondary winding of the regulatory transformer (2) being operatively arranged in series between a power source (F) and the load (C), the power source (F) being capable of providing a supply voltage (VAL) to the load (C); a measuring device (5) operatively associated to the load (C), the measuring device (5) being capable of measuring at least one value of an electric signal of the load (SCA); a control device (4) operatively associated to the measuring device (5), the control device (4) being capable of comparing the value of the electric signal of the load (SCA) with a pre-established reference value and providing a correcting electric signal (SCO); and an actuation device (3) operatively associated to the control device (4), wherein the actuation device (3) is capable of providing an adjustment voltage (VAJ) proportional to the correcting electric s
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Siemens LTDA
    Inventor: Martin Alsina Navarro
  • Publication number: 20130193946
    Abstract: An inrush current suppressing device includes a residual-magnetic-flux calculating unit configured to retain an interruption characteristic of a breaker and an attenuation characteristic of a magnetic flux that are estimated by measurement, analysis, or the like beforehand, and apply the attenuation characteristic to a magnetic flux value at the time of current interruption obtained based on the interruption characteristic of the breaker to calculate a residual magnetic flux value. The breaker is turned on in a power supply voltage phase in which the calculated residual magnetic flux value and a theoretical value of a steady magnetic flux match.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2010
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Inventors: Kenji Kamei, Sho Tokoyoda, Tomohito Mori, Hiroki Ito, Sadayuki Kinoshita
  • Patent number: 8451256
    Abstract: A gate-on voltage/LED driving voltage generator includes an inductor boosting an input voltage through a PWM voltage and the input voltage, a diode and capacitor rectifying the boosted voltage, a first output terminal outputting the rectified voltage to supply an LED driving voltage to an LED, and a second output terminal supplying the rectified voltage to a gate driving circuit. Further, an aging test apparatus of an LCD device, which includes a high LED driving voltage generator in an HVS power board, and an HVI power board, may selectively perform an aging test according to a backlight unit of the LCD. Further, a DC-DC converter having the gate-on voltage/LED driving voltage generator, and the LCD including the DC-DC converter are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Samsung Display Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Dae Seop Kim, Seok-Hyun Jung, Jae Jin Choi
  • Patent number: 8436593
    Abstract: A boost circuit is used for power factor correction (PFC). In a low power application, transition mode control is utilized. However, switching frequency varies with different input voltages, and over a wide input voltage range, the switching frequency can become too high to be practical. To address this issue, a boost circuit is provided whose effective inductance changes as a function of input voltage. By changing the inductance, control is exercised over switching frequency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: STMicroelectronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Jianwen Shao, Thomas Lea R. Hopkins
  • Patent number: 8436602
    Abstract: A voltage compensation circuit is disclosed for proving an elevated output AC voltage upon an under voltage input AC voltage condition. The voltage compensation circuit comprises an autotransformer having a first and a second autotransformer winding. A first position of a switch connects the first autotransformer winding to the input AC voltage for providing an elevated output AC voltage at the second autotransformer winding. The second position of the switch shorting the first autotransformer winding for providing a non-elevated output AC voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: Technology Reasearch Corporation
    Inventor: David L. Sykes
  • Publication number: 20130057243
    Abstract: A power controller has a high-side driver, a low-side driver, a voltage divider, and a comparator. The high-side driver drives a high-side power switch, powered by a boost power line and a connection node. The low-side driver drives a low-side power switch, powered by an operation power line and a ground power line. The voltage divider has a first resistor having a first node for providing a detection voltage and a second node coupled to the boost power line or the connection node. The voltage divider has a second resistor coupled between the first node of the first resistor and the ground power line. When the low-side power switch is turned off, the comparator compares the detection voltage with a reference voltage. When the detection voltage is higher than the reference voltage, the comparator renders to turn on the high-side power switch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2012
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Inventors: Fong-Cheng Yang, Kuo-Chien Huang
  • Publication number: 20120293150
    Abstract: Aspects of a method and system for configuring a transformer embedded in a multi-layer integrated circuit package are provided. In this regard, a windings ratio of a transformer embedded in a multi-layer IC package bonded to an IC may be configured, via logic, circuitry, and/or code in the IC, based on signal levels at one or more terminals of the transformer. The transformer may comprise a plurality of inductive loops fabricated in transmission line media. The integrated circuit may be flip-chip bonded to the multi-layer package. The IC may comprise a signal strength indicator enabled to measure signal levels input to or output by the transformer. The windings ratio may be configured via one or more switches in the IC and/or in the multi-layer package. The IC and/or the multi-layer package may comprise ferromagnetic material which may improve magnetic coupling of the transformer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Inventor: Ahmadreza Rofougaran
  • Publication number: 20120268097
    Abstract: A direct current (DC)-to-DC conversion apparatus is provided. The provided DC-to-DC conversion apparatus is composed of two boost circuits, in which inputs of both boost circuits are connected in parallel, and outputs of both boost circuits are connected in series. Accordingly, when the provided DC-to-DC conversion apparatus is operated, the DC input power would be firstly sampled and determined, and then the operations of the first and the second switch devices disposed therein would be controlled in response to the sampled-determined result, such that both boost circuits would be respectively operated in different input conditions, for example, the input is normally-connected or the input is reverse-connected. Accordingly, regardless of the input of normal connection or the input of reverse connection, the provided DC-to-DC conversion apparatus can perform the function of DC-to-DC conversion, thereby enabling the applied product to be normally operated even the input is reverse-connected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2012
    Publication date: October 25, 2012
    Applicants: FSP-POWERLAND TECHNOLOGY INC., FSP TECHNOLOGY INC.
    Inventors: Ju-Lu Sun, Bo Ma, Ming Xu
  • Patent number: 8269756
    Abstract: Embodiments include controllable voltage device drivers adapted to generate driver output voltages. A device driver includes a direct current (DC) voltage source adapted to receive a voltage level command that indicates a commanded voltage, and to generate a DC transformer input voltage having a voltage level corresponding to the commanded voltage. The device driver also includes a step-up transformer adapted to receive the DC transformer input voltage and to convert the DC transformer input voltage into an alternating current (AC) transformer output voltage. The device driver also includes at least one processing element, adapted to receive one or more control inputs, and to generate an alternating current through a primary transformer winding based on the one or more control inputs. Other embodiments include methods for a controllable voltage device driver to generate a driver output voltage, and optical systems having an electro-optical device and an electro-optical device driver subsystem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Robert J. Atmur
  • Publication number: 20120200279
    Abstract: A system, in one embodiment, includes a voltage fault detection system. The voltage fault detection system may be configured to acquire a reference voltage signal from a power line to determine if a voltage sag condition is present in the power line, determine a correction voltage for correcting the voltage sag condition, use the reference voltage to produce the correction voltage, and apply the correction voltage to the power line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2011
    Publication date: August 9, 2012
    Applicant: General Electronic Company
    Inventors: Balakrishna Pamulaparthy, Viswesh Goli, Manishkumar Ramchandra Sharma
  • Patent number: 8227763
    Abstract: A sequence of series-connected transformers for transmitting power to high voltages incorporates an applied voltage distribution to maintain each transformer in the sequence below its withstanding voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: Twin Creeks Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven Richards, Geoffrey Ryding, Theodore Smick
  • Publication number: 20120169316
    Abstract: A bias supply, a method of communicating data across an isolation barrier and a power supply are provided herein. In one embodiment, the bias supply includes: (1) a bias supply transformer having a primary winding inductively coupled to a secondary winding across an isolation barrier, (2) a controller configured to direct operation of the bias supply and (3) bias voltage manipulating circuitry, coupled to an input of the controller, configured to receive primary data and based thereon alter a secondary bias output voltage of the secondary winding between defined voltage levels by varying a voltage provided to the controller, the controller and the bias voltage manipulating circuitry located on the primary side.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2012
    Publication date: July 5, 2012
    Applicant: Lineage Power Corporation
    Inventors: Stephen C. Guthrie, Subarna Pal
  • Patent number: 8169799
    Abstract: A power factor correction circuit steps up and power-factor-corrects a rectified voltage, which has been rectified from an AC input voltage of an AC power source Vin, through an ON/OFF operation of a switching element Q1 and supplies a stepped-up output voltage to a DC-DC converter that is driven with a first pulse signal. The power factor correction circuit includes a delay circuit to receive the first pulse signal whose pulse width corresponds to an output voltage of the DC-DC converter, generate, in response to an ON pulse of the first pulse signal, a delay pulse signal whose pulse width corresponds to the rectified voltage, and synthesize the first pulse signal and the delay pulse signal into a second pulse signal. The power factor correction circuit also includes a driver to drive the switching element according to the second pulse signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Assignee: Sanken Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Toshirou Takeuchi
  • Patent number: 8159198
    Abstract: An apparatus for efficient power supply operation variable input line voltages. The apparatus includes a detection module that senses the input line voltage to the power supply and determines whether it is high or low voltage. A turn module sets the turns ratio of the transformer to a first turns ratio if the input line voltage is low voltage. The turn module sets the turns ratio to a second turns ratio if the input line voltage is high. In one embodiment of the invention, a high voltage is between 180 and 250 volts, while a low voltage is between 90 and 130 volts. A primary module sets the boost voltage of the power supply's boost stage to a first voltage if the input line voltage is low, while it sets the boost voltage to a second voltage if the input line voltage is high. The first voltage may, for example, be 200 volts, and the second voltage 400 volts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Cecil C. Dishman, Randhir S. Malik
  • Patent number: 8154269
    Abstract: A control apparatus and a control method for a power factor correction power converter are provided. The control apparatus is configured to reduce the variation rate of a reference signal with a rising portion and a falling portion. When the primary winding almost completely releases the stored energy, and the falling portion of the reference signal reaches a determined condition, the control apparatus turns on a switch for increasing the stored energy of the primary winding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Leadtrend Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Tsung-Hsiu Wu
  • Patent number: 8111049
    Abstract: In the case of a power supply device (2) for an electric circuit (3), an energy source (4) and an electric filter (7) are provided for the reliable and low-emission supply of energy to the electric circuit (3), wherein the energy source (4) and the electric filter (7) interact in such a way that the power supply device (2) has, at a filter output (9), a voltage source characteristic in a first frequency range and a current source characteristic in a second frequency range, which has a higher frequency than the first frequency range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignee: Conti Temic microelectronic GmbH
    Inventor: Goeran Schubert
  • Patent number: 8085027
    Abstract: Switch-mode power conversion system and method thereof. The switch-mode power conversion system includes a primary winding configured to receive an input voltage, and a secondary winding coupled to the primary winding and configured to, with one or more other components, generate an output signal. Additionally, the switch-mode power conversion system includes a feedback component configured to receive the output signal and generate a feedback signal based on at least information associated with the output signal, and a voltage detector configured to receive the input voltage and output a detection signal. Moreover, the switch-mode power conversion system includes a mode controller configured to receive the detection signal and the feedback signal and generate a switch signal based on at least information associated with the detection signal and the feedback signal, and a switch configured to receive the switch signal and affect a first current flowing through the primary winding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignee: On-Bright Electronics (Shanghai) Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yuan Lin, Jun Ye, Lieyi Fang
  • Patent number: 8024077
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system and computer program product for implementing a smart transformer, comprising a processor, and a balancing algorithm residing on the processor, wherein the balancing algorithm is stored on a non-transitory computer readable medium having computer executable program code embodied thereon, the computer executable program code configured to cause the system to monitor and control an electric customer load and generation in order to optimize the performance of a distribution transform wherein the processor receives a plurality of system inputs and uses the balancing algorithm to determine a rating of the transformer and an amount of customer load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: San Diego Gas & Electric Company
    Inventors: William Vincent Torre, Amanda Louise Myers, Michael James Colburn
  • Patent number: 8018750
    Abstract: A power circuit device has a housing. A connection electrically couples AC power to an interior portion of the housing. A female electrical socket is coupled to the housing and is electrically coupled to and receives AC power from the connection. An AC to DC converter is electrically coupled to the connection to receive AC power therefrom and produce a DC output therefrom. A current sensor senses current drawn by one of the AC to DC converter and the female electrical socket. A switch, responsive to the current sensor, selectively removes power from the other one of the female electrical socket and the AC to DC converter when a drop in current is sensed by the current sensor. AC versions without DC conversion are also contemplated. This abstract is not to be considered limiting, since other embodiments may deviate from the features described in this abstract.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignees: Sony Corporation, Sony Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Allan Unger, Takaaki Ota
  • Patent number: 8018749
    Abstract: The disclosed embodiments relate to apparatus and method for reducing power losses in a power supply. There is provided an apparatus comprising means for coupling a first signal (S2) to a reference level (ground) when the coupling means is conductive, means for placing the coupling means in a conductive state during a duration of a portion of a period of a second signal (S3), and means for altering the duration of conduction of the coupling means in response to an amplitude of the second signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: Thomson Licensing
    Inventor: William Vincent Fitzgerald
  • Patent number: 8018696
    Abstract: A system for moving an aircraft thrust reverser component includes a power drive unit, a thrust reverser actuator assembly, and a tertiary lock system. The power drive unit is operable to rotate and supply a rotational drive force. The thrust reverser actuator assembly receives the rotational drive force from the power drive unit and moves the thrust reverser component between a stowed position and a deployed position. The tertiary lock system selectively engages and disengages the thrust reverser component and includes a tertiary lock power unit, an electromechanical tertiary lock assembly, and a voltage limiting circuit. The voltage limiting circuit limits the voltage magnitude of a control signal supplied to the tertiary lock assembly to a predetermined value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventor: Terry L. Ahrendt
  • Publication number: 20110199067
    Abstract: An input adaptable electrical test set provides for the automatic detection of the power source connected to the test set, as well as automatic configuration of the test set to accommodate the identified power source. Prior to identification of the power source, a circuit breaker isolates a main transformer associated with the test set from receiving power from the power source. The main transformer includes a primary winding and a secondary winding, the primary winding having first, second and third tap positions that allows the transformer to be configured in one of two states depending on the power source connected to the test set. An automatic input voltage detection circuit monitors the input voltage provided by the unidentified power source and identifies the power source based on the monitored voltage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2010
    Publication date: August 18, 2011
    Applicant: Electrical Reliability Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Christopher J. Revak
  • Patent number: 7956596
    Abstract: A limitation of the interaction between cascaded tap changers and/or between a tap changer and a shunt compensator independently of any real-time communication between the respective controllers is disclosed. Coordinated voltage control in distribution networks can be achieved by an adaptive updating or tuning of control parameters DB4, TD4 of a voltage control unit controlling a second voltage control device, depending on instantaneous or actual operating conditions evaluated by the voltage control unit itself. Instead of using constant control parameters initially set by a commissioning engineer, the parameters are updated based on a voltage level UP4, which in turn is responsive to or affected by any control action performed by a first voltage control device neighboring the second voltage control device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignee: ABB Research Ltd
    Inventor: Mats Larsson
  • Patent number: 7924584
    Abstract: A power supply and methods are provided. The power supply includes a bi-forward converter and a feed forward circuit. The bi-forward converter is operable to convert an input voltage into an output voltage. The feed forward circuit is operable to detect a peak voltage associated with the input voltage, and the bi-forward converter is further operable to adjust the output voltage responsive to the peak voltage detected by the feed forward circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Marvell International Ltd.
    Inventors: Hubertus Notohamiprodjo, Liang Chen
  • Patent number: 7884592
    Abstract: A system and method of use for a DC-DC conversion wherein a DC supply at one voltage is converted to a DC supply at another voltage. The DC-DC converter uses a switching circuit with a broadband transmission line transformer to change the impedance level between a square-wave generator and a [square-wave]-to-DC converter. The transformer transforms generator characteristic impedance into load characteristic impedance. The method also transforms a DC source voltage into another DC load voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventor: Donald H. Steinbrecher
  • Patent number: 7800349
    Abstract: The present invention relates a system for compensating for a voltage dip and undervoltage containing a primary side and secondary side transformer, a voltage dip/swell detector, and a level detector/switch selector device, wherein the secondary side of the transformer possesses a minimally sufficient number of taps to allow the system to be modified to meet supply voltage dips. The system, in particular, allows for long term compensation of voltage dips and quick adjustment of load voltage, usually within one cycle. Methods of using the present invention are also presented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
    Inventors: Kai Ming Tsang, Wai Lok Chan
  • Patent number: 7782642
    Abstract: A power brick device has a power brick housing. A male electrical plug electrically couples AC power to an interior portion of the power brick housing. A female electrical socket is coupled to the power brick housing and is electrically coupled to and receives AC power from the male electrical plug. An AC to DC converter is electrically coupled to the male electrical plug to receive AC power therefrom and produce a DC output therefrom. A current sensor senses current drawn by one of the AC to DC converter and the female electrical socket. A switch, responsive to the current sensor, selectively removes power from the other one of the female electrical socket and the AC to DC converter when a drop in current is sensed by the current sensor. AC versions without DC conversion are also contemplated. This abstract is not to be considered limiting, since other embodiments may deviate from the features described in this abstract.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignees: Sony Corporation, Sony Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Allan Unger, Takaaki Ota
  • Publication number: 20100156175
    Abstract: An integrated circuit package includes a DC/DC boost converter for providing an output voltage at a program level to associated components of the integrated circuit package. The DC/DC boost converter includes a first mode of operation wherein the DC/DC boost converter is enabled responsive to an input battery voltage falling below a programmed level of the output voltage. The DC/DC boost converter also includes a second mode of operation wherein the DC/DC boost converter is disabled responsive to the input battery voltage being above the programmed level of the output voltage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2008
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Applicant: SILICON LABORATORIES INC.
    Inventor: DAZHI WEI
  • Patent number: 7723973
    Abstract: A three-phase AC voltage regulator is for adjusting a line voltage on transmission lines. The three-phase AC voltage regulator includes a sampling circuit, a reference-voltage circuit, a comparator, a switch, a power supply, and a compensator. The sampling circuit is for sampling the line voltage. The reference-voltage circuit is for receiving a line-to-line voltage from the transmission lines and generating a standard voltage. The comparator is for comparing the line voltage and the standard voltage to obtain a signal. The switch is for being turned on or off based on the signal. The power supply is for supplying various electric powers to the compensator. The compensator is for receiving the electric power and generating compensating voltages. The compensating voltages are used to compensate the line voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shih-Fang Wong, Tsung-Jen Chuang, Jun Li
  • Publication number: 20100102792
    Abstract: An apparatus for efficient power supply operation variable input line voltages. The apparatus includes a detection module that senses the input line voltage to the power supply and determines whether it is high or low voltage. A turn module sets the turns ratio of the transformer to a first turns ratio if the input line voltage is low voltage. The turn module sets the turns ratio to a second turns ratio if the input line voltage is high. In one embodiment of the invention, a high voltage is between 180 and 250 volts, while a low voltage is between 90 and 130 volts. A primary module sets the boost voltage of the power supply's boost stage to a first voltage if the input line voltage is low, while it sets the boost voltage to a second voltage if the input line voltage is high. The first voltage may, for example, be 200 volts, and the second voltage 400 volts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2008
    Publication date: April 29, 2010
    Applicant: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Cecil C. Dishman, Randhir S. Malik
  • Publication number: 20100090674
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling electric power supplied to one or more electrical devices from a power source are disclosed. Measurements of the supplied electricity are detected. Estimated deviant voltage levels that the supplied electricity will not drop below or exceed as a result of varying electrical consumption by the one or more electrical devices is computed based on a predetermined confidence level and the detected measurements. A voltage level output of the electricity supplied to the electrical device is adjusted based on the computed deviant voltage level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2009
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Applicant: Programmable Control Services, Inc.
    Inventor: David G. Bell
  • Publication number: 20100039090
    Abstract: A voltage compensation circuit is disclosed for proving an elevated output AC voltage upon an under voltage input AC voltage condition. The voltage compensation circuit comprises an autotransformer having a first and a second autotransformer winding. A first position of a switch connects the first autotransformer winding to the input AC voltage for providing an elevated output AC voltage at the second autotransformer winding. The second position of the switch shorting the first autotransformer winding for providing a non-elevated output AC voltage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2009
    Publication date: February 18, 2010
    Applicant: Technology Research Corporation
    Inventor: David L. Sykes
  • Patent number: 7542308
    Abstract: A DC-DC converter is provided with a control circuit 6 which comprises a drive signal generator 11 for producing on-off signals to a control terminal of a MOS-FET 3 in synchronization with pulse signals VOSC from an oscillator 10; an intermittent controller 12 for producing a control signal VC1 to drive signal generator 11 in response to the level of detection signal from an output voltage detector 5 to convert MOS-FET 3 to the intermittent operation during the light load period; and a power control circuit 16 for ceasing power supply VCC to oscillator 10 in response to control signal VC1 from intermittent controller 12 to stop production of pulse signal VOSC from oscillator 10 for the cessation term of MOS-FET 3 during the intermittent operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2009
    Assignee: Sanken Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Tomoyasu Yamada