Wheatstone Bridge With Amplifier In At Least One Arm Patents (Class 330/146)
  • Patent number: 11573535
    Abstract: A thermoelectric watch includes a thermoelectric generator; a voltage booster connected to the thermoelectric generator, and an energy management circuit connected to the voltage booster and configured to control the charging of at least one energy storage element. The energy management circuit includes an output configured to change from a first logic state to a second logic state when the thermoelectric generator starts generating electrical energy, and to change from the second logic state to the first logic state when the thermoelectric generator finishes generating electrical energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2023
    Assignee: The Swatch Group Research and Development Ltd
    Inventors: Francois Gueissaz, Alain Jornod, Yves Theoduloz
  • Patent number: 11473789
    Abstract: An outdoor unit includes at least one heat exchanger, a first motor including a first fan, a second motor including a second fan, an inverter that applies voltage to the first motor and the second for respectively, a connection switching unit that switches the voltage applied to the second motor between on and off, and a control unit that controls the inverter and the connection switching unit. The inverter is disposed closer to the first motor than to the second motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2022
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Inventors: Yuji Takayama, Kazunori Hatakeyama, Yuichi Shimizu, Keisuke Uemura
  • Patent number: 11437958
    Abstract: A power amplifying device according to an embodiment includes three or more BTL amplifiers and a closed loop section. The three or more BTL amplifiers include bridge-connected first and second output amplifiers and output a first output signal obtained by amplifying a first input signal. Switch circuits respectively corresponding to the three or more BTL amplifiers are connected in series in the closed loop section. The closed loop section is capable of forming a closed loop. An output terminal of the second output amplifier is connected to one end of the switch circuit corresponding to the second output amplifier. The switch circuit is turned on to establish connection between an output terminal of the first output amplifier and the output terminal of the second output amplifier and is turned off to break the connection between the output terminals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2022
    Assignees: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBA, TOSHIBA ELECTRONIC DEVICES & STORAGE CORPORATION
    Inventors: Akira Yamauchi, Hiroyuki Tsurumi
  • Patent number: 11296590
    Abstract: A multi-level inverter having one or more banks, each bank containing a plurality of low voltage MOSFET transistors. A processor configured to switch the plurality of low voltage MOSFET transistors in each bank to switch at multiple times during each cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2022
    Assignee: Solaredge Technologies Ltd.
    Inventors: Ilan Yoscovich, Tzachi Glovinsky, Guy Sella, Yoav Galin
  • Patent number: 11188379
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention disclose a method, computer program product, and system for processing a thread of execution on a plurality of independent processing cores. In various embodiments, a run state and a local maximum thermal power is assigned to each of at least part of the cores. A first one of the cores is set to the active state. The thread on the first core in the active state is processed. The processing of the thread on the first core for fulfilment of an interrupt condition is monitored. A second one of the cores is set to the active state. The processing of the thread on the first core is halted. The processing of the thread to the second core is transferred. The processing of the thread on the second core in the active state continues and the first core is set to the cooling state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2021
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Marco Kraemer, Matteo Michel, Carsten Otte, Christoph Raisch
  • Patent number: 11011818
    Abstract: First ends of a plurality of sub-networks of an exemplary transmission-line network are connected together electrically in series. First ends of a plurality of transmission lines of one subnetwork are connected together in parallel and second ends are connected together in series. The one sub-network has a first-end impedance value that is different than a second-end impedance value. The second-end impedance value of the one sub-network is different than a second-end impedance value of another sub-network. A respective transmission line connects each sub-network to a common circuit node and a respective resistor interconnects each adjacent pair of the second ends of the sub-networks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2021
    Assignee: Werlatone, Inc.
    Inventors: Ky-Hien Do, Allen F. Podell, Mariama Dadhi Barrie
  • Patent number: 10886914
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a semiconductor switch leg S for a Power Electronic (PE) converter (1). The switch leg comprises a plurality of parallel connected semiconductor devices Sa-d. Each semiconductor device is connected with a positive conductor a-d+ connecting the semiconductor device to a positive terminal of an energy storing device (2) of the converter, and a negative conductor a-d-connecting the semiconductor device to a negative terminal of the energy storing device (2) of the converter, the semiconductor device together with the positive conductor and the negative conductor forming a current path across the energy storing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2021
    Assignee: ABB SCHWEIZ AG
    Inventors: Nan Chen, Kalle Ilves, Muhammad Nawaz
  • Patent number: 10886832
    Abstract: A multi-level inverter having one or more banks, each bank containing a plurality of low voltage MOSFET transistors. A processor configured to switch the plurality of low voltage MOSFET transistors in each bank to switch at multiple times during each cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2021
    Assignee: Solaredge Technologies Ltd.
    Inventors: Ilan Yoscovich, Tzachi Glovinsky, Guy Sella, Yoav Galin
  • Patent number: 10886831
    Abstract: A multi-level inverter having one or more banks, each bank containing a plurality of low voltage MOSFET transistors. A processor configured to switch the plurality of low voltage MOSFET transistors in each bank to switch at multiple times during each cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2021
    Assignee: Solaredge Technologies Ltd.
    Inventors: Ilan Yoscovich, Tzachi Glovinsky, Guy Sella, Yoav Galin
  • Patent number: 10644655
    Abstract: An electronic biasing circuit provides a DC bias voltage to a circuit to be biased. The biasing circuit has a first transistor and a second transistor. A gate of the first transistor is connected to a gate of the second transistor and supplies the DC bias voltage. A source of the first transistor is connected to a supply reference voltage. A source of the second transistor is connected to the supply reference voltage via a resistor element. The currents flowing through the first and second transistor are forced to be equal. A third transistor is connected in series with the first transistor and a fourth transistor is connected in series with the second transistor. Currents flowing through the third and fourth transistors are forced to be equal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2020
    Assignee: Dialog Semiconductor B.V.
    Inventor: Michail Papamichail
  • Patent number: 10587231
    Abstract: A power amplifier module that includes a power amplifier and a controller is presented herein. The power amplifier module may include a set of transistor stages and a plurality of bias circuits. At least one transistor stage from the set of transistor stages may be in electrical communication with a first bias circuit and a second bias circuit from the plurality of bias circuits. The first bias circuit can be configured to apply a first bias voltage to the at least one transistor stage and the second bias circuit can be configured to apply a second bias voltage to the at least one transistor stage. The controller may be configured to activate one of the first bias circuit and the second bias circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2020
    Assignee: Syworks Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Ying Shi, Jinghang Feng
  • Patent number: 10418944
    Abstract: A high-efficiency high-integrated receiver is provided. The radar receiver according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a receiver configured to receive a radar signal, a processor configured to attenuate a magnitude of a low frequency band of the received signal of the receiver, a filter configured to perform a low pass filtering on an output signal of the processor, and an ADC configured to A/D convert the output signal of the filter. Accordingly, it is possible to demodulate all the signals being reflected from targets in various distances when even using a low resolution ADC, thereby reducing the manufacturing cost and power consumption.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2019
    Assignee: KOREA ELECTRONICS TECHNOLOGY INSTITUTE
    Inventors: Ki Jin Kim, Kwang Ho Ahan
  • Patent number: 10404154
    Abstract: A multi-level inverter having one or more banks, each bank containing a plurality of low voltage MOSFET transistors. A processor configured to switch the plurality of low voltage MOSFET transistors in each bank to switch at multiple times during each cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2019
    Assignee: Solaredge Technologies Ltd
    Inventors: Ilan Yoscovich, Tzachi Glovinsky, Guy Sella, Yoav Galin
  • Patent number: 10163760
    Abstract: A semiconductor device includes a plurality of die pad sections, a plurality of semiconductor chips, each of which is arranged in each of the die pad sections, a resin encapsulation portion having a recess portion for exposing at least a portion of the die pad sections, the resin encapsulation portion configured to cover the die pad sections and the semiconductor chips, and a heat radiation layer arranged in the recess portion. The heat radiation layer includes an elastic layer exposed toward a direction in which the recess portion is opened. The heat radiation layer directly faces at least a portion of the die pad sections. The elastic layer overlaps with at least a portion of the die pad sections when seen in a thickness direction of the heat radiation layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2018
    Assignee: Rohm Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Akihiro Kimura
  • Patent number: 10044377
    Abstract: A transmitter driver is disclosed. The transmitter driver includes first and second voltage mode drivers and a secondary data path. The secondary data path is connected in parallel with the first and second voltage mode drivers. A high frequency booster provides a high frequency path for boost current from the current source, to enable a high frequency voltage boost at the output ports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2018
    Assignee: Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Euhan Chong, Yingying Fu
  • Patent number: 9819172
    Abstract: A thermal protection circuit which relates to the field of electronic technologies can detect temperature of multiple locations simultaneously and adjust a preset threshold flexibly, thereby improving system reliability. The thermal protection circuit includes: at least one temperature sensor, a detection circuit, an execution circuit, a self-locking and triggering circuit, a protective temperature regulation circuit, and a power supply circuit. The at least one temperature sensor converts a temperature signal into an electrical signal and sends the electrical signal to the detection circuit; the detection circuit detects whether temperature reaches the preset threshold, and sends a turn-off signal to the execution circuit if the temperature reaches the preset threshold; the execution circuit cuts off power supply to the system; and the self-locking and triggering circuit maintains, a power-off state of the system until a power switch is triggered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2017
    Assignee: HUAWEI DEVICE (DONGGUAN) CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Changqi Li, Bingwu Luo
  • Patent number: 9729177
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for orienting power amplifiers are disclosed herein. In certain implementations, a power amplifier system is provided. The power amplifier system includes a first power amplifier die that is positioned in a first position on a printed circuit board (PCB) and configured to radiate a first amount of emissions. The power amplifier system further includes a second power amplifier die that is positioned in a second orientation on the PCB and configured to radiate a second amount of emissions. The power amplifier system further includes a third power amplifier die that is positioned in a third orientation on the PCB and configured to radiate a third amount of emissions, the third power amplifier die oriented such that the first amount of emissions, the second amount of emissions, and the third amount of emissions in a first direction are less than a threshold value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2017
    Inventor: Grant Darcy Poulin
  • Patent number: 9628031
    Abstract: An apparatus includes: first and second transistors, each of the first and second transistors includes a gate terminal, a source terminal, and a drain terminal; and a transformer including a primary winding and first and second secondary windings, the primary winding is coupled to a first input node configured to receive an input signal and a second input node configured to receive a potential, the first and second secondary windings are coupled to gate terminals of the first and second transistors and cross-coupled to source terminals of the first and second transistors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2017
    Assignee: QUALCOMM INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Ojas Mahendra Choksi, Bin Fan, Bassel Hanafi
  • Patent number: 9385670
    Abstract: An amplifier has a dual bridge design with two bridge amplifiers. A mode switch enables them to be configured in a series amplification mode. The switching of the mode switch is dynamic and enables re-use of signal current thereby improving overall system efficiency. A delay to the mode switch closure is provided in the event of clipping of one of the amplifier outputs. This prevents large cross currents from flowing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2016
    Assignee: NXP B.V.
    Inventors: Derk Jan Hissink, Max Martin, Fred Mostert
  • Patent number: 9203354
    Abstract: An electronic biasing circuit provides a DC bias voltage to a circuit to be biased. The biasing circuit has a first transistor and a second transistor. A gate of the first transistor is connected to a gate of the second transistor and supplies the DC bias voltage. A source of the first transistor is connected to a supply reference voltage. A source of the second transistor is connected to the supply reference voltage via a resistor element. The currents flowing through the first and second transistor are forced to be equal. A third transistor is connected in series with the first transistor and a fourth transistor is connected in series with the second transistor. Currents flowing through the third and fourth transistors are forced to be equal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2015
    Assignee: Dialog Semiconductor B.V.
    Inventor: Michail Papamichail
  • Patent number: 8952756
    Abstract: An antenna drive apparatus applying an antenna drive voltage to an antenna from an H-bridge circuit including four switching elements to drive the antenna, includes: a switching mechanism to switch between a full-bridge state in which a differential voltage between a pulse voltage and a reverse pulse voltage reversed from the pulse voltage is applied to the antenna as the antenna drive voltage, and a half-bridge state in which the pulse voltage or the reverse pulse voltage is applied to the antenna as the antenna drive voltage; and a control mechanism to control the switching mechanism so that the frequency of the full-bridge state per unit time during an initial period of driving of the antenna in a transmission period for transmitting a transmission signal by the antenna becomes higher than that during the subsequent period in the transmission period.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Takehiro Tabata, Masahiro Hagimoto
  • Patent number: 8810314
    Abstract: An envelope tracking power amplifier uses signal cancellation techniques to provide isolation between RF signals and envelope signals, without the use of filters. In this manner, the envelope tracking power amplifiers are capable of operating with envelope signals that are at or near the frequency of the corresponding RF signals. In at least one embodiment, a double balanced power amplifier is provided that includes a balanced RF input port, a balanced RF output port, and a balanced envelope input port. The balanced nature of the amplifier results in ports of the amplifier forming virtual grounds with respect to signals at other ports. In some other embodiments, a single balanced amplifier is provided that provides isolation between ports thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Auriga Measurement Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Steven A. Mulawski, Yusuke Tajima
  • Patent number: 8786371
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for voltage converters are provided. In one embodiment, a voltage conversion system includes a bypass circuit and a voltage converter including an inductor and a plurality of switches configured to control a current through the inductor. The bypass circuit includes a first p-type field effect transistor (PFET), a second PFET, a first n-type field effect transistor (NFET), and a second NFET. The first and second NFET transistors and the first and second PFET transistors are electrically connected between a first end and a second end of the inductor such that a source of the first PFET transistor and a drain of the first NFET transistor are electrically connected to the first end of the inductor and such that a drain of the second PFET transistor and a source of the second NFET transistor are electrically connected to the second end of the inductor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignees: Skyworks Solutions, Inc., Nujira Ltd
    Inventors: Peter Harris Robert Popplewell, Jakub F Pingot, Florinel G Balteanu, Martin Wilson, Mark Tuckwell
  • Patent number: 8760226
    Abstract: A generator for use with an electrosurgical device is provided. The generator has a gain stage electrically disposed between a first voltage rail and a second voltage rail, wherein the gain stage includes an input and an output. A voltage source operably coupled to the gain stage input and configured to provide an input signal thereto responsive to a drive control signal is also provided. The generator also has one or more sensors configured to sense an operational parameter of the amplifier and to provide a sensor signal corresponding thereto and a controller adapted to receive the sensor signal(s) and in response thereto provide a drive control signal to the voltage source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: James A. Gilbert
  • Patent number: 8660277
    Abstract: A signal amplifying circuit and associated methods and apparatuses, the circuit comprising: a signal path extending from an input terminal to an output terminal, a gain controller arranged to control the gain applied along the signal path in response to a control signal; an output stage within the signal path for generating the output signal, the output stage having a gain that is substantially independent of its supply voltage, and a variable voltage power supply comprising a charge pump for providing positive and negative output voltages, the charge pump comprising a network of switches that is operable in a number of different states and a controller for operating the switches in a sequence of the states so as to generate positive and negative output voltages together spanning a voltage approximately equal to the input voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: Wolfson Microelectronics plc
    Inventors: John P. Lesso, John L. Pennock, Peter J. Frith
  • Patent number: 8362839
    Abstract: A cross-differential amplifier is provided. The cross-differential amplifier includes an inductor connected to a direct current power source at a first terminal. A first and second switch, such as transistors, are connected to the inductor at a second terminal. A first and second amplifier are connected at their supply terminals to the first and second switch. The first and second switches are operated to commutate the inductor between the amplifiers so as to provide an amplified signal while limiting the ripple voltage on the inductor and thus limiting the maximum voltage imposed across the amplifiers and switches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: California Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Seyed-Ali Hajimiri, Scott D. Kee, Ichiro Aoki
  • Patent number: 8330539
    Abstract: A dual bridge amplifier includes a first bridge amplifier receiving a first input signal and having a pair of drive outputs connecting to a first load, a second bridge amplifier receiving a second input signal and having a pair of drive outputs connecting to a second load, and a mode switch between one of the drive outputs of the first bridge amplifier and one of the drive outputs of the second bridge amplifier. The mode switch closes and switches the dual bridge amplifier to a series amplification mode, based on detecting the magnitudes of the first and second input signals. The series amplification mode shares current between the first load and the second load, reducing amplifier heat generation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: NXP B.V.
    Inventors: Derk-Jan Hissink, Fred Mostert, Clemens Herman Johan Mensink, Adrianus Johannes Maria Tuijl
  • Patent number: 8311243
    Abstract: An energy-efficient consumer device audio power output stage provides improved battery life and reduced power dissipation. A power supply having a selectable operating mode supplies the power supply rails to the power amplified output stage. The operating mode is controlled in conformity with the audio signal level, which may be determined from a volume control setting of the device and/or from a signal level detector that determines the amplitude of the signal being amplified. The power supply may be a charge pump in which the operating mode uses a capacitive divider to provide for selection of a power supply output voltage that is a rational fraction of the power supply output voltage in a full-voltage operating mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Cirrus Logic, Inc.
    Inventors: John Christopher Tucker, Daniel John Allen, John L. Melanson, Ammisetti Prasad
  • Patent number: 7999621
    Abstract: A cross-differential amplifier is provided. The cross-differential amplifier includes an inductor connected to a direct current power source at a first terminal. A first and second switch, such as transistors, are connected to the inductor at a second terminal. A first and second amplifier are connected at their supply terminals to the first and second switch. The first and second switches are operated to commutate the inductor between the amplifiers so as to provide an amplified signal while limiting the ripple voltage on the inductor and thus limiting the maximum voltage imposed across the amplifiers and switches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: California Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Seyed-Ali Hajimiri, Scott D. Kee, Ichiro Aoki
  • Patent number: 7813515
    Abstract: A multi-channel power amplifier for driving a plurality of loads, each associated with a respective channel, each channel comprising a pair of operational amplifiers, first and second, one operational amplifier of each channel being connectable by configuring switches either in a bridge configuration with the other operational amplifier or in single-ended configuration to a constant reference voltage output by a dedicated voltage buffer of the multi-channel amplifier for driving the respective load of the channel, comprises a window comparator for monitoring the level of the input signal of the channel and producing a logic control signal for the configuring switches. Each channel has a dedicated window comparator monitoring the level of the input signal of the channel that generates a logic signal for positioning the switches that configure the output power structure of the channel in single-ended or bridge configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: STMicroelectronics, S.r.l.
    Inventors: Edoardo Botti, Fabio Cagnetti
  • Patent number: 7782129
    Abstract: A system is provided for use in an audio signal processor to reduce the order of the loop to remove sound artifacts from an audio signal that includes an input for receiving an audio input signal a control loop of order greater than one configured to process the audio input signal and to output a Pulse Width Modulated audio output signal, a circuit for performing a gradual reduction of the order of the control loop such that prior to entering a shut down state the order is reduced to a single order and a circuit to disconnect a Driver Circuit from the Pulse Width modulated signal operated by a timing device designed to switch at the moment of zero average output value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: ESS Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew Martin Mallinson, Dustin Forman
  • Patent number: 7646249
    Abstract: A cross-differential amplifier is provided. The cross-differential amplifier includes an inductor connected to a direct current power source at a first terminal. A first and second switch, such as transistors, are connected to the inductor at a second terminal. A first and second amplifier are connected at their supply terminals to the first and second switch. The first and second switches are operated to commutate the inductor between the amplifiers so as to provide an amplified signal while limiting the ripple voltage on the inductor and thus limiting the maximum voltage imposed across the amplifiers and switches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2010
    Assignee: California Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Seyed-Ali Hajimiri, Scott D. Kee, Ichiro Aoki
  • Patent number: 7609110
    Abstract: Methods for designing a filterless class-D amplifier and driver are described herein. In the exemplary embodiment, a feedback loop is used to stabilize the filterless class-D amplifier. A pulse width modulated (PWM) output signal is generated by adding a comparator input signal to a comparative signal, and comparing the sum to a peak voltage, which can be a peak value of the comparative signal. A limit of one PWM sample will be generated half per period of the comparative signal, resulting in lower dynamic switching noise and a decreased sensitivity to jitter noise than conventional filterless class-D amplifiers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Assignee: Broadcom Corporation
    Inventor: Minsheng Wang
  • Patent number: 7417394
    Abstract: The invention concerns a device for controlling a final power-output stage, the latter comprising three half-bridges consisting respectively of a series circuit including an upper semiconductor switch and a lower semiconductor switch and subjected to a service voltage, the connection points of the semiconductor switches of the half-bridges forming outputs which are connected to the windings of a motor having at least three phases. The invention is characterized in that there is provided a control device for shifting on-state respectively one semiconductor switch or simultaneously several semiconductor switches according to a predetermined programme and for determining whether the respective voltages at the outputs are respectively within a predetermined tolerance range for the corresponding switching state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2008
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Wolfgang Bay, Michael Henninger
  • Patent number: 7397305
    Abstract: A high output power amplifier with change of voltage transformation ratio of a transformer is disclosed. The high output power amplifier using a transformer installed to output leads thereof, which can increase dynamic range and efficiency thereof as voltage transformation ratio of the transformer is adjusted and load resistance is adjusted so as not to generate signal distortion phenomenon and not to decrease its efficiency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2008
    Assignee: Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology
    Inventors: Younsuk Kim, Songcheol Hong
  • Patent number: 7388434
    Abstract: In a BTL amplifier of the present invention, between first and third transistor parts which are laterally adjacent, directions of semiconductor regions are parallel. Between the first and second transistor parts and the third and fourth transistor parts, each which are longitudinally adjacent, directions of semiconductor regions are perpendicular. The first and the third transistor parts are connected to a power supply terminal through a first wire. The second and the fourth transistor parts are connected to a ground terminal through a second wire. The first and the second transistor parts are connected to a first output terminal through a third wire. The third and the fourth transistor parts are connected to a second output terminal through a fourth wire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2008
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Makoto Yamamoto, Keiichi Fujii
  • Patent number: 7355472
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method for the correction of signal distortions in an amplifier device, wherein a digital PWM modulator is operated with a variable-frequency system clock. The present invention likewise provides a device for the correction of signal distortions in an amplifier device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2008
    Assignee: Infineon Technologies AG
    Inventor: Christian Kranz
  • Patent number: 7307474
    Abstract: An amplifier is provided. The amplifier comprises an H-bridge with two halves. A capacitor and two inductors are coupled to the H-bridge. Each inductor, a half of the H-bridge, and the capacitor are configured as a boost converter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Assignee: NPhysics, Inc.
    Inventor: Tranh T. Nguyen
  • Patent number: 7307475
    Abstract: A radio frequency (RF) generator includes a first half bridge including first and second power transistors; a second half bridge including first and second power transistors; an output node coupling the first and second half bridges and RF signals to a load; positive and negative rails coupled to an AC power source via a rectifier; a first blocking capacitor provided between the positive rail and the load; a second blocking capacitor provided between the negative rail and the load; and a voltage regulator configured to output a given voltage to the first and second bridges, wherein the first and second blocking capacitors are configured to isolate the load from the AC power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Assignee: IXYS Corporation
    Inventor: Charles Coleman
  • Patent number: 7242244
    Abstract: An arrangement for testing a power output stage, with the power output stage includes at least one half bridge with an upper semiconductor switch and a lower semiconductor switch connected in series and to which an operating voltage is applied. A junction point between the semiconductor switches of the at least one half bridge forms an output. A control device performs a test to determine whether the voltage at the output is within a predetermined central tolerance band when the semiconductor switches are not switched on, a test to determine whether the voltage at the output is within a predetermined upper tolerance band when the upper semiconductor switch is switched on, and a test to determine whether the voltage at the output is within a predetermined lower tolerance band when the lower semiconductor switch is switched on. The power output stage is identified as being sound when all of the output voltages are within the respective tolerance bands.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2007
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Wolfgang Bay, Patrick Fischer, Michael Henninger
  • Patent number: 7230482
    Abstract: A common mode control circuit reduces abrupt voltage changes at the outputs of a pair of amplifiers which, in turn, reduces EMI and distortions that occur when the correlation between the signals fed to the four channels of an audio system diminishes. The common mode control circuit generates for each amplifier a reference potential that is a saturated replica of the respective differential input signal of the amplifier that saturates when the amplifier switches to a bridge configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2007
    Assignee: STMicroelectronics S.r.l.
    Inventors: Fabio Chelli, Davide Brambilla
  • Patent number: 7187233
    Abstract: An audio amplifier system includes at least a pair of DC power supplies, a floating bridge current gain output section, and a differential voltage gain input section that draws operating current from the DC power supplies through floating DC current regulators. The included current regulators reject power supply noise and modulation and provide a floating current path for establishing positive and negative operating voltages for the voltage gain section. Cross-coupled interstage loading enables nearly rail-to-rail output voltage swing while providing local feedback around the output section for reduced distortion and improved output load control. The floating current regulators in the circuit exhibit enhanced performance as a result of suppressed operating voltage fluctuations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Inventor: Joseph Norman Berry
  • Patent number: 7116168
    Abstract: A power multiplier system for an amplifier comprises a power multiplier control stage, an amplifier stage and a first switching stage connectable to the power multiplier control stage. The amplifier stage is connectable to the power multiplier control stage. The power multiplier system has a first output terminal and a second output terminal, the amplifier stage is connectable to the second output terminal for driving a load connectable between the first and second output terminals. The first switching stage is connectable to the first output terminal to apply a switchable DC voltage level to the first output terminal. There is also disclosed a method of amplifying the power output of an amplifier system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Assignee: Creative Technology Ltd
    Inventors: Jun Makino, Boon Ghee Ting
  • Patent number: 7116166
    Abstract: A gradient amplifier arrangement is described that comprises a gradient amplifier power stage. The device may be employed to provide a current to a gradient coil, as in a MRI system. The circuitry disclosed includes a series coupling of a first bridge amplifier operating at a first voltage, a second bridge amplifier operating at a second voltage, a third bridge amplifier operating at a third voltage, and a gradient amplifier control stage. The amplifiers may provide output voltages at different levels, and may be switched at different times and frequencies to provide a range of output voltage and current levels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Juan Antonio Sabate, Richard S. Zhang, Luis Jose Garces, Paul Michael Szczesny, Qiming Li, William Frederick Wirth
  • Patent number: 7113032
    Abstract: A multi-channel power amplifier for driving a plurality of loads, each associated to a respective channel, each channel comprising a pair of operational amplifiers, first and second, one operational amplifier of each channel being connectable through switches either in a bridge configuration with the other operational amplifier or in single-ended configuration to a constant reference voltage for driving the load of the respective channel, the amplifier comprises circuit means for comparing the signal level of the channels with at least a threshold and outputting a logic control signal for the switches. A relative method of controlling a power amplifier that allows a sensible reduction of distortion at the price of a negligible increase of dissipated power is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2006
    Assignee: STMicroelectronics, S.r.l.
    Inventors: Edoardo Botti, Fabio Cagnetti
  • Patent number: 7061311
    Abstract: A plurality of bridge transducers are provided in a dual arrangement. An output terminal from each transducer is coupled to differential inputs of an amplifier. Each of the other outputs from the transducers are respectively coupled together and used to control a bias for dual active loads. The transducers may be implemented within monolithic silicon integrated circuits, using bipolar technology with Hall effect, magnetoresistive or piezoresistive sensing elements for the bridge. A single Hall effect transducer may be coupled to the inputs of the differential amplifier, and a center tap terminal used to control a bias for dual active loads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventor: Wayne T. Kilian
  • Patent number: 7024864
    Abstract: An adjustable bipolar current source for a load, such as a thermoelectric cooler, includes a voltage-controlled power supply having a unipolar output, and an H-bridge. At least one of the two active elements on a first side and at least one of the two active elements on a second side of the H-bridge comprises an active conductive element responsive to a control signal to set a magnitude of current flow through the active conductive element. Control logic provides the control signals to the active elements on the first and second sides to set the polarity of the current to the load. Logic coupled to the voltage-controlled power supply maintains a supply voltage sufficient to maintain a voltage drop across the active conductive elements within a linear range of operation of the conductive elements. The output of the voltage-controlled power supply is clamped at or near a minimum stable level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Inventor: Anthony J. Alfrey
  • Patent number: 6919763
    Abstract: A transconductance amplifier for inductive loads and a relevant inductive load driving method, the amplifier having an input stage receiving a driving signal (set-point), a power stage connected downstream of the input stage and connected to the load and an output stage fedback on the input stage to transfer a signal associated to the load. Advantageously, the input stage comprises at least a comparator receiving on one input the driving signal and on another input the output of the output stage. A delay block is also provided between the comparator output and the power stage to delay the comparator switching. This can be obtained also by using a hysteretic comparator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2005
    Assignee: STMicroelectronics S.r.l.
    Inventors: Michele Boscolo, Ezio Galbiati
  • Patent number: 6809586
    Abstract: Apparatus for transmitting a collimated and directed beam of wave energy which includes a beam-forming network having a plurality of amplification sections coupled to an array of transmitting elements. Each one of the sections includes: a source of digital samples of the wave energy; a digital filter fed by digital samples for providing a time delay to the replica; and an amplification system. The amplification system includes: a bridge amplifier producing a feedback signal representative of current passing through a bridge circuit; an analog to digital converter section to produce a corresponding digital feedback signal; a digital summer fed by digital samples of a signal to be amplified and by the digital feedback signal for producing a composite digital signal; and a modulator section fed by the composite digital signal and the carrier signal source produced signal for producing the plurality of switching signals for the amplifying elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2004
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventors: Namir W. Hobboosh, Martin L. Cohen
  • Patent number: 6781445
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for buffering RF signals. A method includes receiving an input signal, wherein the input signal alternates between a first polarity and a second polarity. From the input signal, a first current is generated, wherein the first current is proportional to the input signal when the input signal has the first polarity, and approximately equal to zero when the input signal has the second polarity, and a second current is generated, wherein the second current is proportional to the input signal when the input signal has the second polarity, and approximately equal to zero when the input signal has the first polarity. A third current is generated proportional to the first current, and a fourth current is generated proportional to the second current. The first and fourth currents are applied to a first terminal of an inductor; and the second and third currents are applied to a second terminal of the inductor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2004
    Assignee: Zeevo, Inc.
    Inventor: Arnold R. Feldman