Permanent Magnet-actuated Switches Patents (Class 335/205)
  • Patent number: 8797130
    Abstract: The magnetic switch assembly of an embodiment generally comprises a switch housing coupled to and/or adjacent to a magnet housing. The switch housing may be coupled to, for example, a door frame, a window frame, or other substantially fixed location. The magnet housing including at least one magnet may be coupled to, for example, a door or other substantially mobile location adjacent to the switch housing. The proximity to or distance from the magnets in the magnet housing may actuate one or more reed switches within the switch housing to open and/or close a circuit and/or otherwise generate a signal that may be communicated to, for example, a security system to detect whether the door is open or closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: Royne Industries, LLC
    Inventor: Robert Stevenson
  • Publication number: 20140197909
    Abstract: A high security switch for use with an alarm includes a switch assembly for mounting to a fixed structural member. The switch assembly includes a pressure sensitive switch; a magnetic attractive movable body; a cavity having a first end and second end, the cavity confining, directing, limiting and defining the travel of the movable body; and a biasing element near the first end of the cavity to position the moveable body adjacent the first end of the cavity. The switch also includes an actuating element coupled to a movable structural member. In response to moving the actuating element away from the switch assembly the moveable body is magnetically acted upon by the biasing and moved from the second end to the first end of the cavity. The electrical state of the pressure sensitive switch is changed and an alarm activated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2014
    Publication date: July 17, 2014
    Inventors: Jennifer Oetjen, Randall Woods
  • Patent number: 8770056
    Abstract: In a joystick device where a tilting operation direction of an operation shaft is detected based on positional change of a magnet relative to a magnetic sensor, the magnet being moved with tilting of the operation shaft, a slider is arranged between a base facing a board fixed to a case and a magnet holder to which the operation shaft is swingably coupled; the magnet holder is joined to the slider such that the slider guides relative movement of the holder in a first linear direction orthogonal to the axis of the operation shaft but prevents relative movement of the holder in a second linear direction orthogonal to the first direction; and a guide mechanism configured to guide movement of the slider in the second direction is provided between the slider and the base. This prevents variation in the detection accuracy regardless of tilting of the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Toyo Denso Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takanori Terao, Satoru Nakagawa, Hideaki Ito
  • Publication number: 20140184367
    Abstract: A waterproof electronic device includes a shell, a magnetic sensing switch, and a button responding circuit arranged in the interior. The magnetic sensing switch includes a magnetic sensing unit arranged in the interior of the shell and a magnetic button arranged on the exterior of the shell. The magnetic sensing unit is coupled to the button responding circuit. When the magnetic button is pushed closer to the magnetic sensing unit by a predetermined distance, the magnetic sensing unit is activated by the Hall effect, and outputs a trigger signal to the button responding circuit, and the button responding circuit performs a desired function.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2013
    Publication date: July 3, 2014
    Applicant: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: KUANG-YAO LIAO
  • Patent number: 8766751
    Abstract: Proximity switches are disclosed that preferably are provided in a hermetically sealed unit that can be used in harsh environments and under significant pressures, such as underwater and in nuclear power facilities, without having any parts that would require replacement or periodic maintenance. The proximity switches are preferably switches actuated by physical movement of a contact in response to changing magnetic forces. The switches are preferably disposed in a body tube optionally including a hermetic seal assembly to seal an open end of the body tube and/or a ferrule that prevents electrical wires attached to the switch inside the body tube from being pulled away from the switch. Further, the switches preferably maintain a contact pressure between electrical contacts sufficient to withstand acceleration seismic testing of 10 g with no contact discontinuity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: General Equipment and Manufacturing Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Lynn LaFountain, Gregory Curtis Merrifield
  • Patent number: 8762704
    Abstract: A method for providing customized content to an electronic device. The method may include activating the electronic device through a packaging that substantially surrounds the electronic device, without substantially damaging or removing the packaging. Once the device is activating, connecting the electronic device to a content and providing the content to the electronic device without substantially damaging or removing the packaging.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventors: Fletcher Rothkopf, Teodor Dabov
  • Patent number: 8736406
    Abstract: A latch for a washing machine or other appliance provides two interengaging elements on a lid and housing each having a magnet oriented for mutual repulsion. Proper repulsion of the magnets is necessary to signal that the lid is properly closed such as may be used to determine if the appliance may be locked and safely operated, for example, in a clothes spinning mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Kenyon A Hapke, Joel C Bragg, Michael K Hintz, Randy S McDonald, Mark R Heckenkamp, Jonathan H Olson, Adrian J. Tengler, Jarod M Sulik
  • Patent number: 8736408
    Abstract: A magnetic anchor that is attachable to a computing unit via a magnetic field. The magnetic anchor further includes a locking mechanism that enables its attachment/detachment to a surface area of the computing unit—and further connects to a cable that is fastened to a secured location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Britt C Ashcraft, Eric Chen, Rudy Widiaman
  • Patent number: 8729988
    Abstract: A trip device support frame for a circuit breaker is provided. The trip device support frame includes a calibration tab that is a cantilever member. As a cantilever member, the calibration tab may be moved, i.e. deformed at a proximal end of the tab, so as to adjust the position of the calibration tab relative to the other portions of the trip device support frame. The calibration tab extends upwardly and the distal end thereof is disposed adjacent a top member of a circuit breaker housing assembly. The circuit breaker housing assembly, and more specifically a housing assembly top member, includes a calibration slot. In this configuration, the calibration tab distal end may be engaged by a calibration tool from the upper side of the circuit breaker rather than a lateral side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: James Gerard Maloney
  • Patent number: 8729987
    Abstract: A magnetic switch device and an electronic device having the same are disclosed. The electronic device includes an upper case which includes a first element and a lower case. The magnetic switch device includes a switch part and a driving part, wherein the switch part is mounted on the lower case and includes a second element that can be attached to the first element through magnetic force. The driving part is mounted on the lower case, such that when the driving part is moved, the switch part is enabled by the driving part to make the second element correspond to the first element, allowing the upper case to attach to the lower case; or the switch part is disabled by the driving part to not make the second element correspond to the first element, allowing the upper case not to attach to the lower case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Wistron Corporation
    Inventors: Kuang-Hung Chen, Tsung-Ying Tsai
  • Patent number: 8729989
    Abstract: A magnetic trigger mechanism is provided. The magnetic trigger mechanism operates in conjunction with a plurality of magnetic sensors. The magnetic trigger mechanism includes: a magnet; a body, with its one side provided with a recess and its other side located near the plurality of magnetic sensors; and a moveable section, provided in the recess in a movable manner, comprising an accommodating space for restraining the magnet therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Inventor: Ching-Tang Chang
  • Patent number: 8704622
    Abstract: A switch arrangement for electric currents has at least two contacts to be closed and opened. At least one of the contacts is formed by sections of an electrically conductive pathway of a foil. At least one magnet assigned to the foil. At least one magnetic component is placeable in the magnetic field of the magnet and facing the magnet on the other side of the foil. When the magnetic body is placed in the magnetic field of the magnet it is attracted to the magnet causing the foil to be squeezed and the contacts to make contact, closing the switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Johnson Electric S.A.
    Inventor: Martin Koepsell
  • Patent number: 8674794
    Abstract: A high security switch for use with an alarm includes a switch assembly for mounting to a fixed structural member. The switch assembly includes a pressure sensitive switch; a magnetic attractive movable body; a cavity having a first end and second end, the cavity confining, directing, limiting and defining the travel of the movable body; and a biasing element near the first end of the cavity to position the moveable body adjacent the first end of the cavity. The switch also includes an actuating element coupled to a movable structural member. In response to moving the actuating element away from the switch assembly the moveable body is magnetically acted upon by the biasing and moved from the second end to the first end of the cavity. The electrical state of the pressure sensitive switch is changed and an alarm activated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Inventors: Jennifer Oetjen, Randall Woods
  • Patent number: 8665044
    Abstract: A magnetic attachment mechanism and method is described. The magnetic attachment mechanism can be used to releasably attach at least two objects together in a preferred configuration without fasteners and without external intervention. The magnetic attachment mechanism can be used to releasably attach an accessory device to an electronic device. The accessory device can be used to augment the functionality of usefulness of the electronic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew Lauder, Matthew D. Rohrbach, Daniel J. Coster, Christopher J. Stringer, Florence W. Ow, Jiang Ai, Jonathan P. Ive, Elvis M. Kibiti, John P. Ternus, Sean D. Lubner
  • Patent number: 8665045
    Abstract: A magnetic attachment mechanism and method is described. The magnetic attachment mechanism can be used to releasably attach at least two objects together in a preferred configuration without fasteners and without external intervention. The magnetic attachment mechanism can be used to releasably attach an accessory device to an electronic device. The accessory device can be used to augment the functionality of usefulness of the electronic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew Lauder, Matthew D. Rohrbach, Daniel J. Coster, Christopher J. Stringer, Florence W. Ow, Jiang Ai, Jonathan P. Ive, Elvis M. Kibiti, John P. Ternus, Sean D. Lubner
  • Publication number: 20140049346
    Abstract: A reed switch includes an envelope, a first fixed terminal piece, a second fixed terminal piece, a third fixed terminal piece, a movable reed piece, a first spring member, a second spring member, and a third spring member. The movable reed piece has a base end portion, a distal end portion, and a movable contact portion. A distal end portion of the second spring member is farther from the first spring member than a base end portion of the second spring member in a state where the movable contact portion is spaced apart from a distal end portion of the first spring member and the distal end portion of the second spring member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2013
    Publication date: February 20, 2014
    Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA YASKAWA DENKI
    Inventors: Shunji NAKAHASHI, Kenjiro HAMADA, Yoichi WAKABAYASHI
  • Patent number: 8653919
    Abstract: A hand switch for removable attachment to a powered surgical tool. The switch includes a ring formed with a slot that is snap fit over the tool with which the switch is used. A manually actuatable lever is pivotally mounted to the ring. Internal to the lever is a magnet. The position of the magnet is monitored by a sensor internal to the tool. A tab extends inwardly from the ring. The tab seats in a notch integral with the tool. The seating of the tab in the notch aligned the switch with the sensor internal to the tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Stryker Corporation
    Inventors: Jerry A. Culp, Kevin J. Schemansky, David E. Monk
  • Patent number: 8648679
    Abstract: A magnetic attachment mechanism and method is described. The magnetic attachment mechanism can be used to releasably attach at least two objects together in a preferred configuration without fasteners and without external intervention. The magnetic attachment mechanism can be used to releasably attach an accessory device to an electronic device. The accessory device can be used to augment the functionality of usefulness of the electronic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew Lauder, Matthew D. Rohrbach, Daniel J. Coster, Christopher J. Stringer, Florence W. Ow, Jiang Ai, Jonathan P. Ive, Elvis M. Kibiti, John P. Ternus, Sean D. Lubner
  • Patent number: 8648677
    Abstract: A keyboard is provided. The keyboard includes a housing and keys. The housing includes frames defining a first through hole to receive the keys and defines a receiving space to receive the frames. The housing includes switches. The receiving space defines slots to receive first magnetic members. Each key is arranged over the switch. Each key includes a base, second magnetic members, a convex lens, and a plate. The base defines a second through hole to receive the convex lens and plate. The plate is arranged below the convex lens. A label is sealed on a top of the plate. The convex lens is rotated, the distance between the convex lens and the plate changes. The size of the image of the label thus changes. The key is depressed to press the switch, the switch is actuated, when the key is released, the key is separate from the switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hong-Ti Su, Hsien-Ta Lin
  • Patent number: 8648720
    Abstract: Improved, magnetic high security switch apparatus is provided for use in detecting relative movement between first and second members such as a door frame and door from a close position, wherein the members are proximal, and an open position, where the members are separated. The switch apparatus includes a magnetic shiftable ball switch assembly having an elongated housing and a shiftable ball therein, which traverses an oblique path of travel between respective switch states in response to relative movement between the first and second members. Preferably, the housing is oriented at an oblique angle relative to the horizontal in order to prevent defeat of the switch apparatus through use of an external defeat magnet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Magnasphere Corporation
    Inventor: Randall Woods
  • Patent number: 8638185
    Abstract: A magnetically-sensitive switch includes a housing, a metal block, a sling block, a rigid link, a first plate and an electrical switch. The housing includes a top wall, a bottom wall and two opposite sidewalls. A pair of sliding grooves is defined in the opposite sidewalls. The metal block is placed on the bottom wall. The sliding block is slidably connected to the sliding grooves. The rigid link is pivotally interconnected between the metal block and the sliding block. The first plate is attached to the housing. When the metal block is attracted by a magnetic force generated by a magnet placed adjacent to the top wall. The metal block is movable adjacent to the top wall, thereby driving the rigid link to drive the sliding block to slide towards the side opening along the sliding grooves until the sliding block triggers the electrical switch to generate a switching signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignees: Fu Tai Hua Industry (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Zhan-Sheng Lu
  • Patent number: 8629362
    Abstract: A key for user input having superior tactile qualities. The key is suspended by a magnetic field force to improve the smoothness of motion. Two compact interleaved members link a keycap to a key base to provide highly precise parallel travel with reduced tilt and flexion, and improved durability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: Synerdyne Corporation
    Inventors: Mark S. Knighton, Mydul R. Islam, Tzyy-Woei R. Sung, Kevin H. Vuong
  • Patent number: 8624695
    Abstract: Accurate and reliable techniques for determining a current status of an accessory device in relation to an electronic device are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventors: Michael A. Cretella, Jr., Venu Madhav Duggineni, Michael Man-Cheung Eng, Ronald Keryuan Huang, Christopher Moore, Christopher T. Mullens
  • Patent number: 8613470
    Abstract: A seat belt system configured for use in a vehicle includes a seat belt buckle assembly that is configured to determine the both the latch condition of the seat belt buckle assembly with the seat belt tongue, and the tension applied to the seat belt webbing in a seat belt system. The seat belt buckle assembly includes a latch configured to receive and engage the seat belt tongue, a magnet, and a magnetic sensor configured to determine relative displacement of the magnet. The seat belt buckle assembly is configured to cause a first displacement between the magnet and the magnetic sensor in response to engagement of the seat belt tongue with the latch and cause a second displacement between the magnet and the magnetic sensor in response to tension on the seat belt webbing via the seat belt tongue. The first displacement is distinct from the second displacement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard P. Sickon, Gary M. Sobek
  • Patent number: 8593241
    Abstract: An enclosed proximity switch assembly includes a top enclosure and a bottom enclosure that are coupled to form an interior volume. A shaft protrusion upwardly extends from a top surface of the top enclosure, and an interior bore portion having an enclosed volume is defined within the shaft protrusion to form a portion of the interior volume. A first end of a vertical shaft is rotatably disposed within the interior bore portion such that the shaft rotates relative to the top and bottom enclosures. A samarium cobalt target magnet is coupled to the shaft, and the target magnet interacts with a samarium cobalt driver magnet within a proximity switch when the target magnet is rotated within a predetermined distance of a top portion of the proximity switch. The interaction causes a switch to move from a first state to a second state, or vice versa.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: General Equipment and Manufacturing Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory C. Merrifield, Robert L. LaFountain, Brian P. Pate, Michael J. Simmons
  • Patent number: 8587396
    Abstract: An electronic device includes a magnetic switch, a magnetic element for actuating the magnetic switch to send a control signal to an electronic element module, and a retaining mechanism for retaining the magnetic element at a housing. The retaining mechanism includes a retaining casing, a connecting member, and a blocking member. The retaining casing is disposed on and cooperates with the housing to define a receiving space to receive the magnetic element, and has an opening in spatial communication with the receiving space. The blocking member is connected to the housing by the connecting member and is adjacent to the opening to prevent removal of the magnetic element from the receiving space through the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Wistron Corporation
    Inventors: Chen-Yi Liang, Cheng-Hsiang Chuang, Chun-Chien Chen, Shun-De Bai, San-Pao Kao
  • Patent number: 8587395
    Abstract: A rotary encoder switch assembly includes a panel having a hole that is defined at least partially through the panel, a recess that is formed along a circumference of the hole, and a bearing surface that is defined either on or adjacent the hole of the panel; a rotary encoder switch, which defines a bearing surface, that is mounted to the hole of the panel such that the encoder switch is configured to translate with respect to the panel, and rotate with respect to the panel until the bearing surface of the rotary encoder switch bears on the bearing surface of the panel; and a spring-loaded plunger that engages with the recess of the panel to provide tactile feedback to a user of the rotary encoder switch assembly when the spring-loaded plunger engages with the recess of the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Exelis, Inc.
    Inventor: Gregory Seth Bandy
  • Patent number: 8576030
    Abstract: A switch module for activating a hibernation mode of an electronic device is disclosed. The electronic device includes a casing and a hibernation switch installed inside the casing. The switch module includes a sliding member, a push button and an activating member. The sliding member is disposed on an inner side of the casing in a slidable manner. The push button is slidably disposed on an outer side of the casing and connected to the sliding member for driving the sliding member to slide relative to the casing. The activating member is disposed on the sliding member for activating the hibernation switch when the push button drives the sliding member to slide to an activating position, so as to activate the hibernation mode of the electronic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Wistron Corporation
    Inventor: Manli Zhang
  • Patent number: 8576031
    Abstract: A magnetic attachment mechanism and method is described. The magnetic attachment mechanism can be used to releasably attach at least two objects together in a preferred configuration without fasteners and without external intervention. The magnetic attachment mechanism can be used to releasably attach an accessory device to an electronic device. The accessory device can be used to augment the functionality of usefulness of the electronic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew Lauder, Matthew D. Rohrbach, Daniel J. Coster, Christopher J. Stringer, Florence W. Ow, Jiang Ai, Jonathan P. Ive, Elvis M. Kibiti, John P. Ternus, Sean D. Lubner
  • Patent number: 8570126
    Abstract: A switch includes a switch housing, and a button moveably mounted to the housing. A profile is disposed on the underside of the button and has a profile contour that provides the tactile feel of the button as it is engaged by the user. A spring biased plunger has one end that engages the profile contour. A printed circuit board is mounted to the housing and includes a magnet sensor. A magnet holder includes at least one magnet. A vane interrupter has at least one passage having an opening proximate to a magnetic sensor. The magnet holder is moveably mounted to the housing such that the magnet is selectively moveable at least partially within the passage to a position where the magnet can be detected by the sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Davin R Lee, Mark A Juds
  • Patent number: 8570130
    Abstract: A multilevel magnetic system described herein includes first and second magnetic structures that produce a net force that transitions from an attract force to a repel force as a separation distance between the first and second magnetic structures increases. The multi-level magnetic system is configured to maintain a minimum separation distance between a transition distance where the net force is zero and a separation distance at which a peak repel force is produced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Correlated Magnetics Research, LLC.
    Inventors: Larry W. Fullerton, Mark D. Roberts
  • Patent number: 8564390
    Abstract: A float operated liquid level switch having a body, a float assembly, a switch magnet, and a needle plug. The float assembly may be pivotally attached to the body at a pivot axis. The float assembly may have a first end and a second end opposite the first end, where the pivot axis is located between the first end and the second end. The float assembly may further comprise a float attached to the first end and a float magnet attached to the second end, such that raising the float causes the float magnet to lower and lowering the float causes the float magnet to rise. The switch magnet may be responsive to movement of the float magnet, and the needle plug may be responsive to movement of the switch magnet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Kenco International, Inc.
    Inventor: Kenny McDannald
  • Publication number: 20130271246
    Abstract: A switch arrangement for electric currents has at least two contacts to be closed and opened. At least one of the contacts is formed by sections of an electrically conductive pathway of a foil. At least one magnet assigned to the foil. At least one magnetic component is placeable in the magnetic field of the magnet and facing the magnet on the other side of the foil. When the magnetic body is placed in the magnetic field of the magnet it is attracted to the magnet causing the foil to be squeezed and the contacts to make contact, closing the switch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2013
    Publication date: October 17, 2013
    Applicant: Johnson Electric S.A.
    Inventor: Martin KOEPSELL
  • Publication number: 20130265123
    Abstract: A switch module for activating a hibernation mode of an electronic device is disclosed. The electronic device includes a casing and a hibernation switch installed inside the casing. The switch module includes a sliding member, a push button and an activating member. The sliding member is disposed on an inner side of the casing in a slidable manner. The push button is slidably disposed on an outer side of the casing and connected to the sliding member for driving the sliding member to slide relative to the casing. The activating member is disposed on the sliding member for activating the hibernation switch when the push button drives the sliding member to slide to an activating position, so as to activate the hibernation mode of the electronic device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2012
    Publication date: October 10, 2013
    Inventor: Manli Zhang
  • Patent number: 8552861
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a method, system and computer program product for a biodegradable sensor device for mesh networking applications. In an embodiment of the invention, a biodegradable sensor device for mesh networking applications is provided. The device includes a frame formed of biodegradable material such as a mixture of polylactic acid and a resin, a biodegradable battery such as a flexible biodegradable lithium ion battery, an antenna, an environmental event detector formed from biodegradable material responsive to a change in environmental conditions, and signal generating circuitry configured to be responsive to detecting an environmental event by broadcasting a signal to other sensor devices in a mesh network and also to re-broadcast signals received from other sensor devices in the mesh network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Paul R. Bastide, Matthew E. Broomhall, Robert E. Loredo
  • Publication number: 20130257570
    Abstract: A rotary encoder switch assembly includes a panel having a hole that is defined at least partially through the panel, a recess that is formed along a circumference of the hole, and a bearing surface that is defined either on or adjacent the hole of the panel; a rotary encoder switch, which defines a bearing surface, that is mounted to the hole of the panel such that the encoder switch is configured to translate with respect to the panel, and rotate with respect to the panel until the bearing surface of the rotary encoder switch bears on the bearing surface of the panel; and a spring-loaded plunger that engages with the recess of the panel to provide tactile feedback to a user of the rotary encoder switch assembly when the spring-loaded plunger engages with the recess of the panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2012
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: EXELIS. INC.
    Inventor: GREGORY SETH BANDY
  • Publication number: 20130249658
    Abstract: A magnetic keyswitch assembly includes a movable keycap, a support plate, a magnetic element, a frame and a switch component. The movable keycap includes a pivot and a metal part. The support plate supports the pivot. The magnetic element attracts the metal part, and a direction of a magnetic attractive force between the magnetic element and the metal part is perpendicular to a movement direction of the movable keycap. The frame is for accommodating the magnetic element. The switch component is disposed beneath the movable keycap. The magnetic element attracts the metal part so as to make the switch component in an OFF state as the movable keycap is undepressed. The movable keycap moves downward to trigger the switch component as the movable keycap is depressed to exceed a force threshold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2013
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Applicant: DARFON ELECTRONICS CORP.
    Inventor: Chen-Hao Kan
  • Patent number: 8536965
    Abstract: An analog pointing key structure includes a rigid body key top; a surrounding member having a hole for exposing the key top; a support member, to which the key top is fixed, having an elastic returning part that permits the key top to move in a direction along a surface thereof and to cancel the movement; a ring-form magnetic member fixed to the support member on a back surface of the surrounding member so as to be interposed between the key top and the returning part; a magnetic sensor that measures a change in magnetic flux density due to displacement of the magnetic member which moves together with the key top; a ring-form screen plate provided on a surface of the magnetic member so that an inner-peripheral part of the plate is positioned within the above hole; a key top support plate, to which the key top is attached, an outer-peripheral part of the support plate being positioned on a back surface of the screen plate, and the support plate having an outer diameter larger than an inner diameter of the scre
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: NEC Corporation
    Inventor: Takaya Yoshida
  • Publication number: 20130234814
    Abstract: Proximity switches include a hermetically sealed unit that can be used in harsh environments and under significant pressures, such as underwater and in nuclear power facilities, without having any parts that would require replacement or periodic maintenance. The proximity switches are preferably switches actuated by physical movement of a contact in response to changing magnetic forces. The switches are preferably disposed in a body tube optionally including a hermetic seal assembly to seal an open end of the body tube and/or a ferrule that prevents electrical wires attached to the switch inside the body tube from being pulled away from the switch. Further, the switches preferably maintain a contact pressure between electrical contacts sufficient to withstand acceleration seismic testing of 10 g with no contact discontinuity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2012
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Applicant: General Equipment and Manufacturing Company, Inc. ,d/b/a TopWorx, Inc.
    Inventor: General Equipment and Manufacturing Company, Inc. ,d/b/a TopWorx, Inc.
  • Patent number: 8531182
    Abstract: A control system for use in safety critical human/machine control interfaces is described, more particularly a joystick type control system and particularly a joystick type control system utilizing magnetic positional sensing. The control system provides a control input device having a movable magnet, a pole-piece frame arrangement positioned about the magnet, at least three magnetic flux sensors being positioned in said pole-piece frame arrangement and a monitoring arrangement for monitoring the output signal of each of said at least three sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Penny & Giles Controls Limited
    Inventor: Dev Kumar Banerjee
  • Publication number: 20130222087
    Abstract: A proximity switch (20, 20A) that snaps quickly and locks between first and second positions of movable electrical contacts (32). A magnet (42) moves a first shaft (26) toward a magnetic target (62) when the target is proximate a sensor end (43) of the switch housing (22). A spring (44) urges the first shaft (26) away from the sensor end. Movement of the first shaft causes a second spring (64) to urge a second shaft (28) in the direction of the first shaft. Next the second shaft is released (52) to move in the direction urged by the second spring. The switch may be adapted to a client cable pin configuration via an adapter plug (80) in the housing with a flexible interconnection circuit (82) folded in a chamber between the adapter plug and leads from fixed electrical contacts (38) of the switch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2011
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Applicant: DYNAPAR CORPORATION
    Inventors: Troy A. Kloss, Douglas Coe, John William Petty, Cathleen MAry Clausen
  • Publication number: 20130222088
    Abstract: The present invention provides a current switch including a blade-type movable contact configured to extend in a radial direction from a pivoting center and reciprocatingly move such that a free end of the movable contact draws a pivoting track, a fixed contact including energizing members separated from the movable contact and arranged to be opposed to and substantially in parallel to each other on both sides across a pivoting surface of the movable contact and an outer frame configured to cover at least the periphery of the energizing members, a movable arc contact provided in the movable contact, fixed arc contacts provided in the fixed contact, and permanent magnets arranged on the inside of the fixed contact or the movable contact to generate a magnetic field that crosses an arc generated between the movable arc contact and the fixed arc contacts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2010
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Applicant: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Inventors: Hironori Kashiwagi, Daisuke Fujita
  • Publication number: 20130207755
    Abstract: A hinged armature arrangement, for a magnetic tripping device of an electrical switching device, includes a yoke, a hinged armature and a hinged armature spring for embodying a spring force on the hinged armature. The hinged armature is mounted at a first end in a hinged armature bearing. The hinged armature bearing includes a contact surface and a stop surface. The hinged armature spring is arranged on the hinged armature such that at least one first part of the spring force acts against a magnetic force, which is exerted on the hinged armature when a current path is energized. In a particular embodiment, the contact surface and the stop surface are arranged at an angle ? of less than 90° relative to one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2013
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Inventors: Stephan LEHMANN, Michael POLES
  • Publication number: 20130207754
    Abstract: A magnetic flux switch having a substrate and an elongated rod having a first end attached to the substrate and a magnetic material attached to the second end. An electrostatic comb drive pivots the rod between a first and second pivotal position in dependence upon the input signal for the comb drive. In its first position the magnetic material is positioned closely adjacent a magnetic flux sensor on the substrate so that flux flow through the rod flows through the sensor which then generates an output signal. Conversely, with the rod in its second position, the magnetic material is spaced from the sensor so that flux does not flow through the magnetic flux sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2012
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Applicant: U.S. Government as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Alan S. Edelstein, Gregory A. Fischer, Jonathan E. Fine
  • Publication number: 20130200964
    Abstract: A security switch assembly is provided. The security switch assembly includes an electrically conductive housing having a cavity. The security switch assembly also includes a header assembly including a first and second contact pin, the header assembly coupled to the housing, wherein the first and second contact pin extend into the cavity of the housing. The security switch assembly further includes a moveable body moveably coupled within the cavity of the housing and between the first and second contact pin, wherein the moveable body rolls between a default position and an engaged position in response to altering the magnetic forces induced on the moveable body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2013
    Publication date: August 8, 2013
    Inventor: Christopher Woods
  • Patent number: 8497753
    Abstract: An electrical plug and receptacle relying on magnetic force from an electromagnet to maintain contact are disclosed. The plug and receptacle can be used as part of a power adapter for connecting an electronic device, such as a laptop computer, to a power supply. The plug includes electrical contacts, which are preferably biased toward corresponding contacts on the receptacle. The plug and receptacle each have a magnetic element. The magnetic element on one of the plug or receptacle can be a magnet or ferromagnetic material. The magnetic element on the other of the plug or receptacle is an electromagnet. When the plug and receptacle are brought into proximity, the magnetic attraction between the electromagnet magnet and its complement, whether another magnet or a ferromagnetic material, maintains the contacts in an electrically conductive relationship.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventors: John DiFonzo, Bartley K. Andre, Kanye Lim, Matthew Dean Rohrbach, Mark Edward Doutt, Jean-Marc Gery
  • Patent number: 8486718
    Abstract: A magnetic system for biosensors is switchable between attraction force and repulsion force near the sensor surface. The magnetic system includes a magnetic source and a sensor. The sensor corresponds with the magnetic field in a way that the magnetic source creates inhomogeneous magnetic field lines that results in a magnetic force towards the magnetic system and which subsequently or adjacently exerts a magnetic force directed away from the magnetic system with all magnetic forces generated at the same magnetic source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.
    Inventors: Petrus Johannes Wilhelmus Van Lankvelt, Menno Willem Jose Prins
  • Patent number: 8487726
    Abstract: Tamper-resistant switch assemblies are provided including a first movement-sensing switch and a second tamper-sensing switch assembly, the latter including a switchable component and an actuating component. Preferably, the switch and switch assembly are housed within an encapsulated switch module, with the actuating component positioned above or to the side of the module. Mounting structure serves to support the module within a mounting opening and is operable to prevent removal of the switchable component and actuating component without significant relative shifting movement between the switchable component and actuating component. Any attempted tampering results in such relative shifting movement, thereby triggering an alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Magnasphere Corporation
    Inventors: Randall Woods, Joseph Hedeen
  • Publication number: 20130169388
    Abstract: Proximity switches are disclosed that preferably are provided in a hermetically sealed unit that can be used in harsh environments and under significant pressures, such as underwater and in nuclear power facilities, without having any parts that would require replacement or periodic maintenance. The proximity switches are preferably switches actuated by physical movement of a contact in response to changing magnetic forces. The switches are preferably disposed in a body tube optionally including a hermetic seal assembly to seal an open end of the body tube and/or a ferrule that prevents electrical wires attached to the switch inside the body tube from being pulled away from the switch. Further, the switches preferably maintain a contact pressure between electrical contacts sufficient to withstand acceleration seismic testing of 10 g with no contact discontinuity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2012
    Publication date: July 4, 2013
    Applicant: General Equipment and Manufacturing Company, Inc., d/b/a TopWorx, Inc..
    Inventor: General Equipment and Manufacturing Company, Inc., d/b/a TopWorx, Inc..
  • Patent number: 8476999
    Abstract: A switching device can include a housing with a core rotatably or slidably located therein. The housing and core can have magnetic poles aligned in a natural position at a natural magnetic state. The device can include an armature with a coil that provides armature magnetic poles. The armature magnetic poles are not aligned with the housing magnetic poles. As such, energizing the armature can cause the core to transition from the natural position at the natural magnetic state to an energized position in an energized magnetic state. The core magnetic poles are aligned with the armature magnetic poles when energized. A method can be used that transitions the core when the coil is energized. The core can include a mirror to reflect a beam of light, which can scan the beam of light when the core, and thereby the mirror, is transitioned between natural and energized positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Inventor: Paul D. Patterson